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Discover Scuba2026-06-18T12:14:58-05:00

NEW! Discover Scuba

Take the plunge into an unforgettable underwater adventure! Guided by certified instructors, you’ll dive beneath the surface to experience the thrill of breathing underwater—no certification required. After a short orientation, suit up and explore the wonders of scuba diving during a 1 hour scuba session!

DISCOVER SCUBA

Fast Facts

Price: Starting at $175.00

Ages: 10 and up

Duration: 1 hour

BOOK NOW

* Price of encounter does not include admission. Must have general admission in order to participate in this experience.

Your First Dive Starts Here: Discover Scuba

Ready to take your adventure below the surface? With Discover Scuba, you’ll gear up and descend into an unforgettable underwater experience—no certification required! From the moment you take your first breath underwater to the weightless feeling of buoyancy control, every moment is a chance to discover something new as you learn the basics of scuba diving in a safe, instructor-led environment.

  • Basic swimming ability; no prior scuba experience needed.
  • What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, and enthusiasm! All scuba gear provided.
  • Participants must be at least ten (10) years of age due to height limitations and educational content. Age limit is strictly enforced.
  • Participants with special needs including mobility, seeing, or hearing impairments must contact Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park prior to reserving the encounter.

  • Encounter must be paid in full at the time of reservation.
  • Encounters continue rain or shine, no refunds or exchanges due to inclement weather.
  • 24-hour notice must be given to receive a full refund of the purchase price of the encounter.
  • We strongly recommend that guests arrive at the park at least one hour prior to their scheduled encounter. The Gulfarium is located in a high-traffic area, and refunds will not be issued for late arrivals due to traffic delays. Please note that encounters are non-refundable within 24 hours of the scheduled start time for any reason. However, we are happy to assist with rescheduling, pending availability.
  • Encounters are non-refundable within 24 hours of the scheduled start time unless Encounter Protection has been purchased. If you need to reschedule within this 24-hour window or after a missed encounter, rebooking is subject to availability and is not guaranteed.
  • Purchased Encounter Protection allows you to cancel or reschedule your encounter for any reason up to 2 hours before the Encounter’s scheduled time to begin. You will be reimbursed for the full amount of each encounter, less the cost of the trip protection and processing fees. This policy does not apply to admission tickets. Rebooking times are based on availability. Guests must call us at (850) 243-9046 x24 to cancel or rebook to have the encounter protection refund applied. Encounter refunds do not automatically apply. If you do not call at least 2 hours in advance of your booked time, the Encounter protection is void.
  • Cameras/phones are not allowed into animal enclosures or on docks as participants’ hands must be free to interact with the animals. Family and friends are welcome to take photos from general admission viewing areas.
  • For the safety of the animals, remove jewelry and loose articles from pockets prior to the start of the encounter.
  • All pricing is subject to change.

Why Choose “Discover Scuba”?

  • Safe Environment: Experience scuba diving in a controlled setting with professional supervision. 
  • No Certification Required: Perfect for those curious about scuba without committing to a full course. 
  • Memorable Experience: Create lasting memories and potentially spark a new passion for underwater exploration. 

What You’ll Learn

This non-certification program offers a hands-on introduction to scuba diving, guided by certified instructors. You’ll gain foundational skills and knowledge, including:

  • Scuba Equipment Basics: Understanding the function and use of masks, fins, regulators, buoyancy control devices (BCDs), and tanks. 
  • Breathing Techniques: Learning how to breathe comfortably and safely through a regulator. 
  • Equalization Methods: Techniques to equalize pressure in ears and sinuses during descent. 
  • Hand Signals: Mastering essential underwater communication gestures. 
  • Safety Protocols: Overview of buddy systems and emergency procedures. 

  • Equipment Familiarization: Practicing wearing and adjusting scuba gear. 
  • Breathing Underwater: Experiencing the sensation of breathing below the surface. 
  • Buoyancy Control: Learning to achieve neutral buoyancy for effortless movement. 
  • Underwater Navigation: Basic techniques for moving and orienting underwater. 
  • Mask and Regulator Skills: Practicing clearing water from the mask and recovering the regulator.  
child snorkeling with a stingray

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take photos during my encounter?2025-05-26T15:06:57-05:00

Cameras/phones are not allowed into animal enclosures or on docks as participants’ hands must be free to interact with the animals.  Family and friends are welcome to take photos from viewing areas.

Does the encounter price include general admission?2025-05-26T15:07:08-05:00

Unless otherwise noted, the encounter price does not include general admission.  General admission must be purchased in addition to the encounter.

Can I get a refund if it is raining on the day of my encounter?2025-05-26T15:07:17-05:00

Encounters continue rain or shine, no refunds or exchanges due to inclement weather.

What should I wear?2025-10-22T09:42:21-05:00

Please bring a swimsuit to wear for the encounter. Participants will be provided with a souvenir towel after the encounter for them to dry off and take home with them. Life jackets, wetsuits, and water shoes are provided.

What is your cancelation policy?2025-05-26T15:07:52-05:00

General Admission Cancelation Policy

  • General admission tickets are nonrefundable and are valid for one year from date of purchase. Blackout dates may apply to discounted tickets.

Encounter Cancelation Policy

  • Cancelation: 24-hour notice must be given to receive a full refund of the purchase price of the encounter.
  • We strongly recommend that guests arrive at the park at least one hour prior to their scheduled encounter. The Gulfarium is located in a high-traffic area, and refunds will not be issued for late arrivals due to traffic delays. Please note that encounters are non-refundable within 24 hours of the scheduled start time for any reason. However, we are happy to assist with rescheduling, pending availability.
  • Encounters are non-refundable within 24 hours of the scheduled start time unless Encounter Protection has been purchased. If you need to reschedule within this 24-hour window or after a missed encounter, rebooking is subject to availability and is not guaranteed.
  • Purchased Encounter Protection allows you to cancel or reschedule your encounter for any reason up to 2 hours before the Encounter’s scheduled time to begin. You will be reimbursed for the full amount of each encounter, less the cost of the trip protection and processing fees. This policy does not apply to admission tickets. Rebooking times are based on availability. Guests must call us at (850) 243-9046 x24 to cancel or rebook to have the encounter protection refund applied. Encounter refunds do not automatically apply. If you do not call at least 2 hours in advance of your booked time, the Encounter protection is void.
What is Encounter Protection?2025-05-26T15:07:59-05:00

Encounter Protection: Purchased Encounter Protection allows you to cancel or reschedule your encounter for any reason up to 2 hours before the Encounter’s scheduled time to begin. You will be reimbursed for the full amount of each encounter, less the cost of the trip protection and processing fees. This policy does not apply to admission tickets. Rebooking times are based on availability. Guests must call us at (850) 243-9046 x24 to cancel or rebook to have the encounter protection refund applied. Encounter refunds do not automatically apply. If you do not call at least 2 hours in advance of your booked time, the Encounter protection is void.

What do I need to bring to scuba dive?2025-05-26T15:07:37-05:00

Guests will need a swimsuit, a towel, basic swimming ability, and enthusiasm! All scuba gear will be provided by the Gulfarium.

Are there showers, changing areas, and lockers available for encounter participants?2025-10-22T09:45:27-05:00

Yes! All encounter participants have access to our convenient changing areas, showers, and complimentary lockers to secure personal belongings during their experience. We recommend arriving a few minutes early so you have plenty of time to get ready before your encounter begins.

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