Commonly asked questions
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Are you still unsure? We have collected the most frequently asked questions in our FAQ for all kinds of topics, so that you can get to know us and our offers better. Of course, you are always welcome to text us in case you have any questions!
Commonly asked questions
Clear your doubts
No. You do not need previous diving experience to start diving with us. If it is your first time underwater, you can join our Discover Scuba Diving experience or start your PADI Open Water Diver course. If you are already certified, you can join our fun dives, refreshers, advanced courses, night dives, specialties, conservation dives, and other dive activities.
Discover Scuba Diving is designed for beginners who want to try scuba diving without having a certification. You will be guided by a professional instructor, receive a safety briefing, practice in shallow water, and then enjoy your dives under direct supervision.
English and Spanish are always available. Depending on the team schedule, German, French, Dutch, and Italian may also be available. If you prefer a specific language for your course or dive briefing, please ask us before booking so we can check availability.
Most of our dives take place around the reefs of Tayrona National Park, especially around Isla Aguja and Bahía de Granate. When Tayrona National Park is closed, which happens a few times per year, we dive at alternative sites outside the park. You can check out our dive sites page to learn more.
Ocean Lovers is located very close to the boat departure point, so you can walk directly from our dive center to the boat. The boat ride to the dive sites is usually short and always comfortable.
The exact dive sites depend on the weather, sea conditions, certification level, experience level, and the daily schedule.
No. Our dive boats are organized for diving activities and return to Taganga after the dives. If you want to visit Tayrona National Park by land or go to beaches inside the park, you should plan that separately and follow the official park entrance rules.
Yes. Taganga offers dive sites for any level of diver, and is a great place to learn scuba diving because the dive sites are close, the boat rides are short, and the Caribbean water is usually warm and comfortable. There are also suitable training areas for beginner courses, which makes Taganga a practical and relaxed place to start your diving journey.
There is no minimum number of sign ups needed for a course or the fun dives, and course starting dates are flexible. Dives and courses start from one student, with a maximum of four students per guide. We value safety and personal attention at Ocean Lovers. Small diving groups allow our divemasters and instructors to give better personal guidance and create a safer, more relaxed experience underwater.
While diving around Taganga and Tayrona, you may see tropical reef fish, corals, moray eels, rays, octopus, pufferfish, barracuda, and many smaller Caribbean reef species. Marine life changes naturally depending on the season, dive site, visibility, and ocean conditions.
You do not need to be an expert swimmer, but you should feel comfortable in the water. If you are nervous or unsure, please tell us before the activity. Our instructors are used to working with beginners and will help you feel safe and confident.
Children can start certain PADI programs from age 10, depending on the course, medical conditions, maturity, comfort in the water, and parent or guardian approval. Please contact us before booking for a child so we can recommend the safest and most suitable option.
Yes. Certified divers can join guided fun dives around Taganga and Tayrona, depending on certification level, recent experience, weather, and ocean conditions. You need a recognized scuba certification, such as PADI, SSI, CMAS, NAUI, SDI, or equivalent.
Please bring your certification card or digital proof of certification. We may also ask when your last dive was so we can choose the best dive plan for you. Your certification level and recent dive experience help us decide which dive sites are suitable for you.
If you have not dived for more than one year, we strongly recommend doing a refresher before joining normal fun dives. A refresher helps you review equipment setup, safety procedures, buoyancy, and basic diving skills. It is also a good idea if you feel nervous, unsure, or simply want to feel more confident underwater.
We organize dive groups according to certification level, recent experience, comfort, conditions, and the daily schedule. Whenever possible, we separate beginner-level certified divers from more experienced or advanced divers so everyone can enjoy a dive that matches their level. Final group organization depends on the number of divers, guides, weather, and dive site conditions.
Most morning fun dive trips include two boat dives with a surface interval between dives. The exact dive sites are chosen according to weather, sea conditions, certification level, and group experience.
Yes. Night dives are available depending on weather, sea conditions, instructor availability, and minimum participants. Night dives are a special experience and are available for certified divers with suitable experience. At night, divers may see different marine life and reef behavior, including crabs, octopus, sleeping fish, shrimp, and other nocturnal creatures.
Nitrox may be available for certified Nitrox divers depending on the schedule, tank availability, and dive plan.
Please contact us before your dive day if you would like to use Nitrox, so we can confirm availability and any additional cost.
Dive computer availability depends on the activity, certification level, and equipment package.
If you want or need a dive computer, please ask us before booking so we can confirm availability and let you know whether it is included or rented separately.
Yes. If you travel with your own dive equipment, you can rinse and dry it at the dive center after your dives.
Please ask our team where to place your equipment safely. Storage options may depend on space, schedule, and length of stay.
If you want to try diving for one day, choose If you want to try diving for one day, choose Discover Scuba Diving.
If you want a full international certification that allows you to dive around the world, choose the PADI Open Water Diver course.
If you are not sure which option is best for you, contact us and we will help you choose the right experience.
The PADI Open Water Diver course usually takes 3 days. The course includes PADI eLearning, digital course materials, professional instructor training, confined-water or shallow-water practice, 4 open water training dives, full scuba equipment during the course, and your PADI certification after successful completion.
Some Dive & Stay packages may also include hostel nights or accommodation discounts.
Please check your selected package before booking.
The exact schedule can depend on your eLearning progress, weather, and instructor availability.
We strongly recommend starting your PADI eLearning before arrival and ideally completing at least part of it before your first course day. This allows you to focus more on the water sessions, practical skills, and diving, and gives you more time to enjoy Taganga.
Most PADI course theory is completed through PADI eLearning before or during your course. This allows you to study at your own pace and spend more time in the water once you arrive in Taganga. Your instructor will always review important points with you and answer your questions during the course.
If you cannot complete the full course, we will review what you have already finished and explain your options. In some cases, you may receive a referral or partial completion record, which can allow you to continue the remaining parts of the course with another PADI dive center. This depends on the course, completed requirements, and PADI standards.
Yes. Many travelers continue directly from Open Water to Advanced Open Water.
The Advanced Open Water course helps you gain more experience, improve your confidence, dive deeper, practice navigation, improve buoyancy, and explore different types of adventure dives. It is a great way to become more relaxed and capable, even if you are just a casual diver.
Technical diving courses depend on instructor availability, conditions, and current training schedule. If you are interested in Tec diving or advanced-level training, please contact us directly with your certification level, number of dives, and goals so we can confirm what is available.
All student divers must complete a medical questionnaire before diving. If you answer “Yes” to certain medical questions, you may need a doctor’s clearance before entering the water.
If you are already a certified diver and joining fun dives, a medical certificate is not normally required by Colombian law. However, as a certified diver, you are responsible for making sure you are healthy and fit to dive. If you are unsure about any medical condition, please contact us before booking.
Maybe, but you may need medical clearance before diving. Please contact us before booking if you have asthma, heart conditions, ear problems, recent surgery, serious allergies, medication use, or any other medical concern. We will guide you through the medical questionnaire and let you know if a doctor’s clearance is required.
As a general rule, we recommend waiting at least 18 hours after diving before flying. For one single dive, some agencies recommend a minimum of 12 hours, but 18 hours is the safer planning rule, especially if you do multiple dives.
You should not fly the same day after diving. Please plan your dives so you have enough time before your flight.
We follow professional dive safety procedures and carry emergency oxygen and first aid equipment. Our team gives clear dive briefings, checks equipment, plans dives according to conditions, and keeps group sizes small for better supervision and safety.
Your safety always comes first.
If conditions are not safe, we may change the dive site, postpone the activity, reschedule, or cancel the dive. If Ocean Lovers cancels an activity for weather, sea conditions, or safety reasons, we will first try to reschedule you or offer a suitable alternative.
If no alternative is possible, we will refund the amount paid for the cancelled activity according to our booking conditions.
No. You should not drink alcohol before diving. Please arrive rested, hydrated, and ready for the activity. Diving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not allowed.
You can book online through our website or contact us directly by WhatsApp. To secure your spot, a deposit is required. After we receive your booking or deposit, our team confirms your activity, date, and next steps.
We accept several payment methods, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, bank transfer in COP, EUR or USD, and other available payment options. Cash promotions only apply when the remaining balance is paid in cash at the dive shop.
We do our best to keep payment conditions clear and fair.
Any card fees, payment gateway fees, currency conversion fees, or special promotions depend on the selected package and payment method. If a specific package has no extra card commission, we will clearly explain this before payment.
Your booking is confirmed once your deposit or payment has been received and Ocean Lovers confirms availability for your selected activity and date. If you book online, we will contact you with the next steps, including forms, meeting time, and preparation details.
Yes, you can request a date change after booking, subject to availability.
For diving, snorkeling, and PADI courses, please contact us at least 24 hours before your scheduled activity. We will do our best to reschedule you free of charge, depending on weather, instructor availability, boat spaces, and course schedule.
For hostel or apartment reservations, changes are possible up to 48 hours before check-in, subject to availability.
Date changes requested too late may not be possible, and our cancellation policy will apply.
We know travel plans can change, so we try to be fair while also protecting the limited spaces we reserve for each guest.
For diving, snorkeling, and activities:
If you cancel more than 48 hours before the activity, your deposit can be refunded, minus any transaction fees. If you cancel between 24 and 48 hours before the activity, your deposit is non-refundable but can be kept as credit for a future booking. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity, arrive too late, or do not show up, the deposit is non-refundable and cannot be used as credit.
For hostel and apartment bookings:
The first night’s deposit is non-refundable because it secures your room or bed. You can change or cancel your reservation up to 48 hours before check-in, subject to availability. If you cancel less than 48 hours before arrival or do not show up, the first night will be charged.
For weather or safety cancellations:
If Ocean Lovers Taganga cancels an activity because of weather, sea conditions, or safety reasons, we will first try to reschedule you or offer a suitable alternative. If no alternative is possible, we will refund the amount paid for the cancelled activity.
For no-shows or late arrivals:
Our activities run on a schedule with boats, instructors, and other guests. If you arrive too late or do not show up, the booking is treated as a no-show and the deposit is non-refundable.
Colombian citizens and foreign residents may be required to pay Colombian VAT/IVA according to Colombian tax regulations. Foreign tourists may be exempt from VAT on accommodation when they present a valid passport and immigration stamp or tourist permit. If you are unsure, please contact us before arrival and we will guide you through the check-in requirements.
Morning dive activities usually start early. Guests meet at Ocean Lovers around 7:15 to 7:30 AM for check-in, equipment preparation, and briefing. The boat normally leaves after preparation, and we usually return around midday.
Exact times can change depending on the activity, weather, and boat schedule.
Yes, afternoon dives are sometimes possible depending on demand, weather, instructor availability, and boat schedule.
Please send us a message and we will check availability for your preferred date.
Ocean Lovers is located in Taganga, very close to the beach, restaurants, cafés, and the boat departure point.
We are only a short walk from the sea, which makes it easy to arrive, prepare your equipment, and go directly to the boat.
You can get to Taganga from Santa Marta, which is the nearest city and has both an airport and a bus terminal you can get to from all major cities and towns nearby. From Santa Marta, you can take a taxi or local bus to Taganga.
The ride is usually short, depending on traffic and your starting point. If you are arriving from the airport or bus terminal, we recommend allowing extra time so you do not miss your activity.
We can help you organize transport from Santa Marta Airport to Ocean Lovers in Taganga.
Please contact us before arrival with your flight details, arrival time, and number of people, and we will let you know the available options.
Technically yes, depending on your arrival time, availability, and whether all required forms or eLearning have been completed. However, for morning dives and courses, we usually recommend arriving the day before so you can check in calmly and be ready on time.
Most dive sites are reached by a short boat ride from Taganga.
The exact travel time depends on the selected dive site, sea conditions, and daily schedule, but one of the benefits of diving from Taganga is that many sites are close and easy to access.
Yes. We choose beginner-friendly dive sites and training areas according to the conditions of the day. If you are nervous, new to diving, or returning after a long break, please tell us before the activity. We will choose the safest and most comfortable option available.
The area offers a mix of reef dives, rocky formations, coral areas, slopes, walls, and sites suitable for different levels of experience. Some sites are better for beginners, while others are more suitable for advanced divers. The daily dive plan depends on conditions, certification level, and group experience. You can check out our dive sites page to learn more.
No. Our dive boats are organized for diving activities and return to Taganga after the dives. If you want to visit Tayrona National Park by land or go to beaches inside the park, you should plan that separately and follow the official park entrance rules.
When Tayrona National Park is closed by the authorities, which happens a few times a year due to local regulations, we organize dives at alternative sites outside the park whenever conditions allow. If a closure affects your planned activity, we will explain the available options and help you reschedule or choose the best alternative.
Some courses or packages may include dorm nights or accommodation discounts. Please check the specific package details when booking or contact us directly so we can offer the best Dive & Stay option for your dates.
A Dive & Stay package makes your trip easier because your accommodation, dive center, equipment preparation, and boat departure are all in one place. You can wake up close to the beach, meet your dive team at the hostel, walk to the boat departure point, and enjoy Taganga without needing extra transport in the morning. It is a relaxed and convenient option for travelers who want to dive, stay, and connect with other ocean lovers.
Some PADI courses and special Dive & Stay packages include free dorm nights or accommodation discounts.
The number of included nights depends on the course, package, season, and availability. Please check the specific course package before booking or contact us directly so we can recommend the best option for your travel dates.
Yes. We offer dorms and private rooms, depending on availability. Private rooms are popular and can sell out, so we recommend booking early if you prefer a private room.
Ocean Lovers Hostel has a shared kitchen, Wi-Fi, and common areas where guests can relax, work, cook, and meet other travelers. It has four floors, on which you can find the kitchen & dining area, a terrace with hammocks, a TV and a lounge, as well as our rooftop terrace with an ocean and sunset view. Our hostel is a great option for backpackers, divers, digital nomads, and anyone who wants a social but relaxed place to stay in Taganga.
Yes. Non-divers are welcome to stay at Ocean Lovers. They can relax in Taganga, enjoy the hostel atmosphere, join selected hostel activities, visit nearby beaches, or choose snorkeling and boat trips if available.
Yes. Ocean Lovers is located very close to Taganga beach. There are restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops nearby. You can also walk to more secluded beaches in the area, usually within 10–30 minutes depending on the beach. We also organize hidden beach walks and can help you with local recommendations.
If you check out in the morning but still have a dive or activity, you can leave your luggage safely with us during the activity.
You are also welcome to use the common areas after check-out, depending on availability and hostel rules. There is an outside shower to rinse off after your dive, as well as bathrooms to get changed.
Yes. Ocean Lovers offers conservation-focused activities such as clean-up dives and ocean protection projects. We believe diving is not only about exploring the ocean, but also about protecting it. Join us and become part of a real ocean-loving community.
Certified divers can usually join clean-up dives depending on schedule, conditions, availability, and experience level. If you are not a certified diver, you are free to
Please contact us to check the next available clean-up dive.
Ocean Lovers is built around a love for the ocean. For us, diving is not only about exploring underwater life, but also about protecting it. We support responsible diving, ocean education, clean-up activities, reef-friendly behavior, reduced plastic use, and conservation-focused experiences that help travelers connect with the ocean in a meaningful way.
You can contact us directly or ask at reception about the next scheduled clean-up activity. Clean-up dives are usually for certified divers, while beach clean-ups or land-based activities may also be open to non-divers. Availability depends on the schedule, conditions, and current conservation program.
Yes. We dive with purpose. We offer lionfish hunting and conservation dives for certified divers, depending on the schedule, conditions, and availability. These dives are a great way to enjoy diving while supporting reef conservation.
Lionfish are an invasive species in the Caribbean and can negatively affect local reef ecosystems by eating native fish and reproducing quickly. Controlled lionfish hunting helps reduce their impact and supports reef conservation. These activities must be done responsibly, safely, and according to local rules and environmental guidelines.
Lionfish hunting is only available for certified divers with suitable experience and good buoyancy control. Depending on the dive plan, conditions, equipment, and local requirements, additional training or briefing may be required before participating. Safety and reef protection always come first.
When lionfish are collected during conservation activities, they may be used responsibly as food or for educational purposes, depending on the activity and local guidelines. The goal is to reduce the impact of this invasive species while creating awareness about reef conservation.
Conservation-related courses and specialties may be available depending on instructor availability and schedule. If you are interested in ocean conservation training, please contact us and we will let you know which PADI specialties or conservation activities are currently available.
You can still help protect the ocean even if you do not dive. You can join beach clean-ups, reduce single-use plastic, refill your water bottle, choose responsible tours, avoid touching or taking marine life, and support local conservation activities during your stay.
Yes. Ocean Lovers offers professional-level training as a PADI 5 Star Dive Resort.Our Divemaster training gives you the opportunity to learn in a real dive center environment, assist with daily operations, support student divers, and gain practical experience with an experienced professional team.
The PADI Divemaster course is the first professional level in recreational scuba diving. As a Divemaster, you learn to guide certified divers, assist instructors, support dive operations, and become a role model for other divers.
A PADI Instructor can teach courses, certify students, and lead people through their full dive education. Becoming an instructor requires additional training after Divemaster.
To start PADI Divemaster training, you need to meet PADI prerequisites, including minimum age, required certifications, medical fitness to dive, and a minimum number of logged dives.
Please contact us with your current certification level and number of dives, and we will confirm whether you are ready to start or what steps you need before beginning.
Our Divemaster internship gives you real experience in a working dive center.
You assist with daily dive operations, help prepare equipment, support student divers, observe professional briefings, learn boat logistics, improve your rescue and leadership skills, and gain practical experience with real guests under professional supervision.
The Divemaster course can be completed in different timeframes, but we recommend giving yourself enough time to absorb both the theory and the practical side of working in a dive center.
A longer training period gives you more experience, more confidence, and a better understanding of real dive operations.
PADI fees and professional materials may not always be included in the course price. Please check your Divemaster package carefully before booking. We will clearly explain what is included, what is paid directly to PADI, and what extra costs you should plan for.
Depending on the package, season, and length of training, Divemaster candidates may have access to accommodation discounts or special Dive Pro stay options. Please contact us with your preferred dates and training plan so we can offer the best available option.
For professional-level training, having your own equipment is strongly recommended because it helps you become familiar with your gear and prepare for working as a dive professional.
If you do not have all your equipment yet, contact us before booking and we will explain what is required, what can be rented, and what you should plan to buy.
Yes. Divemaster training at Ocean Lovers is not only about guiding dives. You also learn how a real dive center works, including guest care, equipment preparation, dive planning, boat logistics, safety procedures, communication, and supporting daily operations.
Yes. Conservation is part of our identity as a dive center.
As a Divemaster candidate, you may have opportunities to support conservation-focused activities such as clean-up dives, responsible diving education, and other ocean protection projects, depending on the schedule and your training progress.
