Okinawa intro-diving: Kerama Islands try-dive from $68
What is a try-dive (intro-dive)?
You go underwater with a guide, you breathe from a regulator, you see the reef. No certification required. The guide stays with you the whole time. You wear a wetsuit, tank, and weights. The depth is typically 5–12 metres. The Kerama reef is famous for high visibility (clear water) and marine life: reef fish, turtles, sometimes eels and sea snakes. Reviewer Maria said "reefs teeming with life, high visibility even under overcast skies". Erika said "weather wasn’t great yet the experience was phenomenal". Chanelle saw "turtle, sea snakes and eels, crystal-clear sea". First-timers almost always love it.
Try-dive vs snorkel: what’s the difference?
Snorkeling is at the surface; diving takes you down to see more fish and bigger structures. Diving is deeper, feels more immersive, and lets you stay longer at depth. The Kerama intro-dive is guided — the instructor briefs you, watches you the whole time, and brings you back to the boat. Snorkeling is faster to get into and easier for nervous swimmers. This tour offers both: one guided dive and the option to snorkel the other stops. See the snorkel tour if you prefer to stay at the surface.
Is it safe for first-time divers?
Yes, the guides are experienced, the depth is controlled, and you’re never alone. The operator is Marine House SEASIR, the same outfit that runs the flagship snorkel tour. Safety briefings are thorough. Reviewer Se said "great intro-dive, would do it again". Alicia said "friendly, helpful guides". Report any discomfort to the guide — they’ll adapt the dive or surface you.
Take the PADI Discover Scuba course if you want to dive future trips. This intro-dive gives you a taste; the course (1 day) certifies you to 12 metres. Still want a cheaper taste? Try the snorkel tour instead.
What’s included
Full-day boat trip to Kerama, guided try-dive, snorkel option on other stops, all tanks and weights, wetsuit, mask and fins, bento lunch and jasmine tea on board. Same itinerary as the snorkel tour, just with scuba added.
Can’t make these dates?
Browse more available Okinawa islands tours and find one that fits your schedule — all with instant confirmation and free cancellation.
Still deciding? See all five tours, compare with snorkeling, or read the best time to dive in Okinawa.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a diving certification to do this tour?
No. This is an intro-dive (also called a try-dive or discover scuba). No certification required. The guide stays with you the whole time and you dive to a shallow, controlled depth (~5–12 metres).
How deep does a try-dive go?
Typically 5–12 metres (about 16–40 feet). Deep enough to see fish, coral, and reef structure, but shallow and controlled. The guide sets the pace.
Can I dive if I’ve never been underwater before?
Yes. Reviewers with no prior diving experience loved it. The guide briefs you before the dive, controls the descent, and stays with you. If you panic or feel uncomfortable, you signal and return to the boat. It’s safe.
What if I get spooked underwater?
Tell the guide. They’ll bring you back to the boat. Divers sometimes feel nervous on the first descent, but once they adjust to breathing underwater, the experience is magical. The guide is right there.
Is the water warm enough to dive year-round?
Yes — Okinawa’s warm water (18–25°C year-round) means you can dive any month. Winter requires a thicker wetsuit. Mar–Oct is most comfortable.