Price and duration by school
| School (listing) | Duration | Price seen | Place |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beach & Safari Holidays (GetYourGuide) | 3 days | US$429 to 450 | Eagle Ray Dive Center, Matemwe |
| GetMyBoat listing | 3 to 4 days | US$500, or US$370 with e-learning | Mnemba, fee included |
| DiveTime Zanzibar (PADI 5 Star centre) | 3 days, online theory | from US$670 | Menai Bay, 4 students maximum |
Differences come from what is included: marine area entry fee (about US$10 shown by one offer), certification fee, equipment, e-learning. Ask for the final price in writing. Sources disagree on depth (18 m or 30 m): the standard Open Water limit is 18 m; check with the school.
How it works
Theory (online before you leave or on site), shallow-water skills, then 4 sea dives. Minimum age 10 for DiveTime. The certificate is valid for life.
Which centre to choose
- To learn at Mnemba: Matemwe or the north (Mnemba).
- For a small group: DiveTime caps classes at 4 students.
- On a budget: e-learning lowers the price but needs 8 to 10 hours of study at home.
Before you book
If you do not have three days, try a first dive: see diving in Zanzibar. Pick the season: when to go. For non-diving family members, snorkelling in Zanzibar.
