Scuba Programs Abroad

Filter Results
130 Scuba Adventures


ActionQuest Summer Adventure Programs
4.85
47
Living aboard sailing yachts in small groups of 11 to 13 teenagers of similar ages, ActionQuest students discover the British Virgin Islands, lea...
Gapforce
4.5
6
Lying in the crystal-clear tropical waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao’s abundant and diverse coral reefs offer some of the finest scuba diving found anywhere on the planet! The perfect location to maximize your diving and reef ecology experience, this exciting and in-depth program has been spe
See All 3 ProgramsInternational Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
4.68
828
At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservatio
See All 10 ProgramsGoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
4.81
26
From conducting wildlife and marine research and conservation to trekking through lush rainforests to analyzing blood test results, GoEco has you covered for your biological research volunteer opportunity or internship abroad! Join us in any destination to be a part of the solution. Adding photo ide
See All 25 ProgramsMAXIMO NIVEL
4.73
48
Work, study, and travel in Latin America with Maximo Nivel. Join our diverse teams in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru for an immersive experience like no other! Maximo Nivel has been the leading educational travel and study abroad provider in Latin America since 2003. Across 4 modern campuses, ever
See All 4 ProgramsPenda Photo Tours
0
0
Spend 28 days exploring the underwater world through photography on South Africa’s vibrant KwaZulu-Natal coast. This hands-on program is designed for students and emerging photographers who want to build their skills in a real-world setting. With guidance from professional underwater photographers,
Broadreach
4.84
31
It's the kind of ocean expedition that aspiring marine biologists dream of—17 days on a live-aboard floating classroom: sailing, diving, and exploring the fascinating waters of the Caribbean. Set sail for a one-of-a-kind adventure with a small group of marine science enthusiasts just like you. You'
See All 14 ProgramsPacific Discovery
4.65
40
Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Jo
See All 8 ProgramsTravel For Teens
4.89
19
We will explore the historical city of Chiang Mai, basking in the down-to-earth charm of this northern gem, shopping at local markets, enjoying a traditional Thai massage, and seeing lavish historic temples. Get ready to spend a day white water rafting down the mighty Pai River, taking in the scenic
See All 9 ProgramsSeamester Study Abroad at Sea
4.76
51
Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real out
See All 11 ProgramsARCC Programs
4.8
5
Join us for a transformative 21-day cultural immersion in Australia and Fiji. We start in Fiji with a warm welcome ceremony, engaging in hands-on cooking classes to explore the diverse flavors of Fijian cuisine. Our community service focuses on a meaningful meal program that empowers Fijian women an
See All 7 ProgramsInterExchange
4
1
Explore the best of Australia with a 12-month visa. You'll have the ability to choose where you live, travel, and work; receiving support in the background during your adventure! Earn money to fund your travels, make a million friends and memories, and maybe take a side trip or two (Fiji anyone?).
GoBeyond Student Travel
4.5
4
Discover Australia, one of the most environmentally and socially diverse places on earth. Beginning with a thrilling surf session in Sydney, you’ll be riding a wave of excitement until the very last minute. Whether you’re living aboard a yacht sailing the magnificent Whitsunday Islands, visiting the
Go Abroad China Ltd.
4.65
23
Go Abroad China’s High School Chinese Language Immersion Program is designed for international students aged 13–18 who want to learn Chinese in China while experiencing authentic Chinese culture in a safe and supportive environment. Students can choose from University Chinese Language Programs, Sm
Love Volunteers
0
0
This program aims to bring a lasting, positive impact on the lives of some of Cape Town’s most impoverished children and youth ages 6 - 13. Volunteers are placed in a physical education program that runs in conjunction with the local public primary school curriculum. They help deliver a sports progr
Intercultura Costa Rica
5
6
Ready for the ultimate summer in Costa Rica? Our Teen Summer Adventure Camp is a chance to improve your Spanish while exploring tropical beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, and some of the most incredible places on the planet. After your fun, active Spanish classes (both in the city and at our amaz
Luderitz Blue School
5
2
Do you love the ocean — and want to share that passion with the next generation? At Luderitz Blue School, Namibia's only IOC-UNESCO Blue School, ocean literacy isn't a subject — it's a way of life. As an intern, you'll become part of a unique school community where every week brings beach clean-ups,
See All 2 ProgramsWestcoast Connection
4.93
15
Join us this summer on an amazing Greece and Italy adventure travel program for teens. Explore ancient ruins and breathtaking natural landscapes, and savour the freshest, most incredible food in this program that takes you off the beaten path. See breathtaking views from the seaside villages of Cinq
See All 6 ProgramsGama Travel and Tour Agency
0
0
30-Day Rwanda Academic & Professional Tour: The 30-Day Rwanda Academic & Professional Tour, organized by Gama Travel & Tour Agency in Rwanda – the Land of a Thousand Hills – offers international students, professors, and university staff an immersive academic and experiential learning program. This
Kaya Responsible Travel
5
1
Volunteer abroad in Mozambique on this research and conservation project in Tofo, a beach town on the eastern shores of Inhambane Peninsula. This project collaborates with a few international marine research bodies, including the Ecocean global whale shark database. The Marine Research and Whale
See All 2 ProgramsA Guide to Scuba Diving Abroad
Locations
From the crystal clear waters of Iceland’s silfra fissure to the colorful expanse known as the Great Barrier Reef, when it comes to scuba diving, the world is your oyster. Scuba diving can be found anywhere there is coastline, but no two scuba adventures will be the same.
Southeast Asia is practically the capital of overseas adventure travel. It is also a region that boasts a splendor of reefs and wreckages that will be leave you breathless (the good kind of breathless). You can glide through the 26 Japanese naval ships sunk by U.S. air raids during WWII within the Calamian Islands of the Philippines. If history really isn’t your thing, try Sipadan Island in Malaysia; it has been voted one of “The Top Dive Destination in the World”, so you can’t go wrong, right? ARound Sipadan Island you can enjoy some of the greatest biodiversity found on Earth. No matter where you decide to scuba dive in Southeast Asia, your underwater selfies will have everyone talking.
The Caribbean is home to warm, turquoise waters and some of the ocean’s largest characters. Dive deep inside the iconic Great Blue Hole in Belize, where a shallow marine playground meets a sudden 400 foot abyss. Alternatively, the Cayman Islands offer over 160 popular dive sites including a city of stingrays and the Bahamas are known for letting you get up close and personal to all your favorite shark species. How many of your friends can say they’ve high fived a shark? So, leave your fears on the white, sandy shores and plunge into the Caribbean’s vibrant waters though scuba diving ASAP.
Scuba Diving Abroad
Whether you wish to dip beneath the waves for only a day or give Jacques Cousteau a run for his money, there are scuba diving lessons perfect for your next adventure.
You’ll find that day trips are the most popular option for scuba diving abroad, especially among travelers who like to go with the flow. Dive shops around popular scuba diving locations usually allow for short-notice reservations and equipment rentals for two tank boat dives. These scuba diving lessons are commonly in larger groups, less technical, and perfect for those wishing to escape gravity for an afternoon then move on to the next adventure.
Many of these dive shops offer multi-day excursions, where you’ll return ashore in the evenings. These are great options for those who want to hone their scuba diving skills and get comfortable in the water, without missing out on those unforgettable seaside sunsets.
Private scuba diving tours are always an option too, offering tailored scuba diving lessons for you and your fellow travelers. Just be prepared to hand over any buried treasure chests you find if you go this route.
For the adventurers who wish to swim against the current then stay there for awhile, liveaboard programs will take you to the world’s most remote dive sites, in style. Lasting anywhere from one to three weeks, you’ll rack up the nautical miles by living aboard a vessel with other divers who share your seafaring nerve. It’s like the aquatic equivalent of the road less traveled. You’ll spend your days exploring the open water and all its wonders, then spend your evenings swapping stories before the ocean sways you to sleep. You don’t have to be a master diver to embark on a liveaboard scuba diving program, just know you’ll be earning those sea legs.
The beauty of scuba diving is that you can splash around the seven seas (although we don’t particularly recommend the Arctic) during any season. Well, that and you won’t receive any work emails underwater! Weather does play an integral role in the ocean and its behavior, so do yourself a favor and don’t flounder about during any storms and never enter the water without a master diver.
Tips & Advice for Scuba Diving
Scuba diving abroad will leave you smiling for hours, even after you dry off. It’s difficult putting in words the sheer awe of scuba diving adventures that few get to experience, so you’ll just have to see it for yourself.
Unlike ziplining, you can’t just show up: a scuba diving certification is a must, as most dive shops around the world will require an open water diving certification. This will teach you the basic principles and skills of scuba diving, either in a classroom or online. Did you know you can even receive college credit for earning your scuba diving certification? See ya later, underwater basket weaving.
Scuba diving certification is important as it teaches you how to relax, communicate, and navigate the water safely. You’ll also learn that scuba is an acronym, for you trivia buffs out there. Scuba diving certification costs about $200 to $250, but don’t worry, no one has ever regretted it.
When embarking on your first scuba adventure, choose a location that matches your interests. If you would rather dance with marine life in the sunny tropics, then it’s okay to forego that nighttime wreck dive. Even though you’ll never get bored of swimming in your niche, the best adventure travelers aren’t afraid to mix it up. Oh, and don’t forget an underwater camera; it’ll help during those times when the ocean leaves you absolutely speechless.
Benefits & Challenges
Being underwater is an unmatched experience of serenity. Scuba diving provide a quiet exploration of a world where your surface problems simply don’t exist. That being said, scuba diving can be adrenaline-filled, even in those peaceful moments. Learning how to stay calm and collected despite the constant excitements is a balance you’ll have to embrace during your scuba diving lessons.
Scuba diving may appear daunting, even for the most seasoned thrill seekers. Before you opt out and trade in the wetsuit for a snorkel, know that scuba diving is actually pretty easy. With the right instruction, anyone over the age of 10 can do it! All it takes is some deep breaths and knowing where to go next. If only life on land was that easy...
Most scuba diving certification requirements include several open water dives to apply the skills from your coursework. For those who live far away from large bodies of water, this may require some travel prior to receiving your certification. Open water dive training can be found all over the world. From the crystal lakes of the Rocky Mountains to the inland quarries of the United Kingdom, we trust you can turn finalizing your scuba diving certification into one epic weekend.
Arguably the most challenging thing about scuba diving is that you’ll never want to stop. The salty kiss of sapphire waters, the bond between animal and sea, and the friends you’ll make along the way make scuba diving a lifelong activity.
To see the world but ignore the seas is downright irresponsible. Scuba diving is a change of pace, the experience of a lifetime, and a chance to one-up all those engagement photos on your timeline. The ocean is wild, free, and everything a true traveler strives to be so go explore it.
Latest Program Reviews
I had the absolute time of my life
August 06, 2026by: Georgie Kyle - South AfricaProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Warriors Academy has been one of the greatest adventures of my life. Through exciting outdoor challenges and unforgettable experiences, I’ve developed valuable skills in leadership, teamwork, resilience, and adventure activities. Every day has pushed me to grow beyond my comfort zone while doing what I love most. The incredible people, the breathtaking experiences, and the constant opportunities to learn have made my time at Warriors Academy the time of my life.
Warriors
March 31, 2026by: Luca Benning - NetherlandsProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Warriors is one of the best experiences of my life. I have done things I thought I would never do. If you are an adventurous person and love taking on a challenge, I recommend taking a quest at Warriors Academy. The location is incredibly beautiful, and every place you visit is even more beautiful than the last. The guides and everyone at Warriors are so kind and help you with everything needed. The things you learn and do here are things you can't just do anywhere; that is what makes it so incredibly special.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
March 31, 2026by: Jaime Oosthuizen - AustraliaProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Summer Quest at Warriors Academy was honestly one of the best experiences I’ve had. The environment was welcoming from day one, and the instructors really took time to help everyone improve while still keeping things fun. I built confidence, made great friends, and learned a lot both on and off the court. The energy, structure, and support made it unforgettable. Definitely a 5-star experience I’d recommend to anyone looking to grow and enjoy the game.
Had the best time at warriors
March 31, 2026by: Ivar van Meerwijk - NetherlandsProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
My experience at Warriors has been both challenging and rewarding. From the very beginning, I was welcomed into an environment that encouraged growth, discipline, and teamwork. The atmosphere was energetic, and every day brought a new opportunity to learn something valuable. Whether it was improving my skills, building confidence, or working with others, I constantly felt motivated to push myself further. One of the most memorable aspects of my time at Warriors was the strong sense of community. Everyone supported each other, and there was always a feeling that we were working toward a common goal. This made even the toughest moments easier to handle, as I knew I was not alone in my journey. There were also moments of difficulty, where I had to overcome challenges and step outside of my comfort zone. However, these experiences helped me grow stronger and more resilient. I learned the importance of perseverance and maintaining a positive mindset.
Amazing experience
March 31, 2026by: Daisy Simner - United StatesProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
I have nothing but good reviews for this program. The instructors are amazing and they do a great job of pushing you out of your comfort zone while still making you feel supported. They genuinely care about your growth, not just physically but mentally as well. The environment can be challenging at times, but that’s what makes it so impactful. I’ve learned a lot about discipline, resilience, and myself overall. It’s also such a strong community, and the people really make the experience. I have grown so much this quest and I can’t wait for another.
Changed my live for the good
March 31, 2026by: Divan De klerk - South AfricaProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
The self-mastery session really challenged me and helped me grow. Then we did a cycle safari, followed by a hike that led straight into an exciting rafting experience. An unforgettable gap year adventure.
It changes me
March 31, 2026by: Georgie Kyle - South AfricaProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Warriors academy gave me so much, it taught me so much about who i am as a person and more importantly it gave me so many experiences i would never imagine having and so many friends which are now more like family to me. The facilitators were amazing, they supported you when you needed it but also pushed you to be the best version of yourself. the warriors academy base camp is in the most beautiful area. getting to experience the beautiful Magoebaskloof forest was something i never thought i needed. Warriors is no longer just a place, it is now a home.
Gap Year of a Lifetime
March 31, 2026by: Chantal Smith - South AfricaProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Warriors Academy is an incredibly well structured program, filled with physical activity, travel, adventure, soft skills…all based on the foundation of self-mastery. I highly recommend attending Warriors Academy, for self-improvement, growth, and excitement!
Something I will never forget
December 26, 2025by: Hailey Jackle - CanadaThis was one of the biggest challenges of my life. I learned skills and made memories that will stick with me for the rest of my life. I made lifelong friends during this shared adventure. This was the best thing I could have done for myself.
Best Trip Ever!
December 04, 2025by: Lucas Ford - United StatesProgram: Travel For Teens: Thailand Elephant Service and the Islands
My Adventure Tour to Thailand was filled with some of the richest and best memories I will ever make. I got to meet so many amazing people, both locals and friends I made on the tour. When I try and decide a favorite part, it's always impossible. From the time at the school, volunteer work with the elephants, visiting the temples, exploration of the islands, and so much more, each time a moment of the trip pops into my head, it brings a smile to my face. TFT staff did an exceptional job organizing the itinerary and engaging with the students, helping to create a fulfilling trip that will no doubt stay with me forever.

Awesome adventure!
December 02, 2025by: Chantal Smith - United StatesProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
The Warriors Gap Academy Gap Year Program has been absolutely phenomenal! From mental grit, and learning how to overcome physical limits and limiting beliefs, to exciting adventures through nature, and learning how to get uncomfortable intentionally for the sake of growth, to bungee jumping, to meeting incredible people from all over the world, this program has truly been an astonishing variety of experiences to grow personally. The facilitators and entire Warriors community are full of support, guidance, connection, and are representations of true passion for their work. I am beyond grateful for the loving community that has turned into a form of family.
Best Week Ever
November 14, 2025by: Grace Blankenship - United StatesEverything about this trip was amazing! The counselors were very nice and had amazing stories to share. It was so fun getting to meet other teenagers from around the US and even from different countries. It was such an amazing opportunity to be able to understand the culture of another country. My parents were both pleased with the level of communication coming from the counselors and the program as well. All information was explicitly given and easy to follow. I learned a lot on this trip about culture, the ocean, and myself.



Self-growth and improvement through getting uncomfortable intentionally!
October 25, 2025by: Chantal Smith - United StatesProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Warriors academy taught me to face my fears, and be brave. I learned how to push past what I thought to be my limits. I met some wonderful people from all over the world, and was supported by the amazing facilitators here at Warriors. If you are looking for a place to help you grow and work on mastering the inner parts of yourself, I highly suggest you take the opportunity to come on this wild adventure!
Forever grateful
July 13, 2025by: Levi MaysProgram: Wild Tropics: SCUBA Certification and Conservation Thailand
I had never traveled outside of my home country before coming to Thailand and I wasn't quite sure what to expect. this trip has broadened my perspective and opened my mind to a whole other world ready for me to explore. I will forever be grateful for the experiences, connections, and lessons on this amazing trip.
New found love for conservation
June 29, 2025by: Aoife RussoProgram: Wild Tropics: SCUBA Certification and Conservation Thailand
This marine week addition ws beyond anything I ever imagined. I learned so much about myself and how I can overcome new things along with a new found love for all things conservation. Thank you, Loop Abroad!
Can't wait to share my experience
June 01, 2025by: Nellie NavarroProgram: Wild Tropics: SCUBA Certification and Conservation Thailand
My time in Koh Tao, Thailand has been unbelievable! From scuba diving to snorkeling, to food, to the people, I learned so much from just being engulfed in this culture. I can't wait to share my experience with others!
Always felt encouraged
June 01, 2025by: Habiba MataProgram: Wild Tropics: SCUBA Certification and Conservation Thailand
I loved how the team would always check to make sure you're comfortable and they work with you. I just love the energy being brought, always very positive. Also the fact they never give up on you and encourage you to keep going and try something new that may help.
Ce que la Warriors Academy ma apporté
May 29, 2025by: Axel Mayer - MauritiusProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Avant de venir a la Warriors Academy j’ai été déscolarisée pour certaines raison, mais je voulais pas perdre mon temp et je voulais renforcer mon physique et mon mental car je suis quelqu’un qui a peur de parler devant des gens, et partir dans un autre pays avec des personnes que tu ne connais pas avec une langue que tu connais a peine, c’est un défi que je me suis lancer. Alors si j’ai un conseil, c’est de quitter votre zone de confort et venais nous rejoindre et ca vous aidera probablement comme ca ma aider.
Best 2 months of my life!
May 29, 2025by: Madison Gotte - South AfricaProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
I came to Warriors as part of my gap year and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is not 100% sure on what to do during their gap year. The amount of different things you do, including hiking the Num-num trail, horse riding, climbing and a lot of cycling and the many different people you meet and form relationships with give you a different perspective on life. I have so much more motivation and self confidence after this quest, I now push myself past my comfort levels and do things I never thought I would do, including a 120km cycle through the mountains and scuba diving with sharks. I loved my time here and can't wait to come back!!
Warriors was an adventure
May 29, 2025by: Tristan Tredoux - South AfricaProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Warriors Gap year academy second quest, autumn quest has exposed me to many different activities and adventures. Thanks to worries scuba diving is now one of my favorite hobbies which I wouldn’t have known if I hadn’t come to warriors academy. It wouldn’t have been possible if not for the amazing people in charge those who plan, drive buses, facilitate and in charge.
Latest Interviews

Lilas Hampe
RealStep
I was inspired to go abroad by the idea of experiencing something completely different from my everyday routine. The thought of waking up just steps a...

Olivia Haan 2018
Travel For Teens
I have been abroad a few times now but I was very drawn to China based on its history and culture. I have been to Thailand before but wanted to explor...

Carmen Ruiz Ricca
Worldwide Friends Iceland
I have always loved travelling around, so when I came across this program I thought it was such a great way to get to know this thrilling country.

Savannah Petrelli
Travel For Teens
Ever since I was young, I had an urge to travel. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to travel in their lifetime. Being able to see an...

Rachel Lyon
The Real Uganda
My passion to work with children in childcare and my desire to travel whilst also volunteering

Daan de Kraay
Nullarbor Traveller
I wanted to see the world and explore to see how Australia looked. I've heard many many stories about this country and they were all true!

Kimberley Maessen
Nullarbor Traveller
I always enjoyed traveling and exploring new countries, which was also the main reason for choosing to study tourism.

Blake Powel
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
I love to travel and, specifically traveling abroad, as a way to broaden my cultural awareness. As I am usually traveling with friends or family, I wa...

Ashley Allen
Travel For Teens
Ultimately my love for adventure, cultural exploration, and stories. I wanted to experience life abroad before I went to university that would allow m...

Michaela Rubenstein
University Studies Abroad Consortium
My parents really pushed me to go abroad because they knew it would make me a well-rounded individual and they regretted not doing it themselves. I al...

Ivanya Johnson
Broadreach
My Mom found Broadreach for me; she knew that I loved adventure, meeting new people, and learning more about the world we live in. Each year I choose ...

Dallas Fawson
Discover Corps
This contrast can be seen in the beautiful church facade in San Andrés Xecul; though it is a Catholic church, it was constructed by Mayan slaves, and ...

Matthew Ambrogi
Where There Be Dragons
First off, it wasn't an easy decision. But, for me, it was something I had to do. I was in my freshman year of college, working so hard everyday for a...

Natalie Craun
Global Leadership Adventures
I wanted to discover what life was like in a developing country, step outside of my comfort zone, and sharpen my social and leadership skills.

Sydney Harned 2014
Broadreach
I’d always had a hunch that I wanted to go on to get my Divemaster certification, and after diving the past two summers with broadreach I knew that Sc...

Sydney Harned 2011
Broadreach
I’d always been interested in traveling abroad, especially to study marine science. I thought it would be a great experience for me to learn more abou...

Sally Short
Tropical Research and Conservation Centre
I love to Travel and I love to dive, The UK is too cold!!!
Popular Searches
Apply for Scholarships & Deals
Submit a single application on MyGoAbroad to get exclusive discounts on travel programs!

Recent Adventure Travel Articles




















