Have you always wondered what it's like to breathe underwater or wanted to find out what scuba diving is like before deciding to get certified? Then, the PADI Discover Scuba Diving Program (often referred to as a DSD) is your answer.
This thoroughly instructor-led, beginner-friendly program offers an easy sneak peek into the beautiful world that lies underwater. It's an opportunity to try scuba diving to see if you enjoy it - or simply to tick it off your bucket list. The best part is it's open to non-swimmers as well, and no prior experience is required to participate! All you need is to be in general good health.
And if you fall in love with the underwater world, like we did, you can seamlessly move on to the PADI Open Water Diver certification course!
Minimum Age: 10 years
Duration: 4-6 hours
No. of Dives: 1
Maximum Depth: 12 metres/40 feet
Prerequisites: None
Minimum Age: 10 years
Duration: 4-6 hours
No. of Dives: 1
Maximum Depth: 12 metres/40 feet
Prerequisites: None
The DSD Program begins completing your paperwork followed by a short 15-minute video screening that introduces you to the fundamentals of scuba diving - including basic dive theory and science, the underwater environment, essential hand signals, the equipment you will be using, and key safety protocols.
Next, you'll participate in an approximately 45-minute pool training session to help you get comfortable underwater and learn a few vital skills in a shallow, controlled environment. The pool session is mandatory - not just for your safety, but to ensure that you have a great time underwater during your ocean dive.
Once you're confident in water and your instructor is satisfied with your comfort level, we'll head to the harbour, board the dive boat, and set off to explore the vibrant UNA reef. Here, you'll dive to a maximum depth of 12 meters under the direct supervision of a PADI Instructor.
Our boats operate between 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM, and you can book a slot anytime from 6:30 AM to 2:00 PM.
However, we strongly recommend completing your pool session a day in advance so you can head out early in the morning - when the ocean is at its calmest and most magical.
At UNA, we understand that many people come to us with a deep love for the ocean and a lifelong dream of experiencing their first breath underwater. We also know how disheartening it can feel if budget becomes the only hurdle standing in your way. That's why we've created flexible pricing options - designed to make this once-in-a-lifetime experience accessible, while never compromising on safety, training, or quality. Our goal is simple: to open the doors to the underwater world for as many ocean lovers as possible, safely and responsibly.
| Program Option | Days | Dive Time | Highlights | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSD Deluxe | 0.5 | 30-40 minutes | Unlimited ultra HD photos and videos | ₹6,500 (*18% GST additional) |
| DSD Premium | 20-30 minutes | 5-10 HD photos and 1 video | ₹5,500 (*18% GST additional) | |
| DSD Lite | 15-20 minutes | 5-10 normal quality photos and 30 sec video | ₹4,500 (*18% GST additional) |
Note: Guest safety takes priority over filming complimentary photos and videos. Footage quality is dependent on guest's in-water comfort & ocean conditions.
Taking your first breath underwater is a big deal, & it's natural to have a few questions swirling around in your mind. Don't worry - we're here to help! This section covers the most common questions about DSD so you know exactly what to expect on the day. For anything beyond the program itself - like diving in Pondicherry, equipment, or medical queries - don't forget to check out our general FAQs.
No! Swimming skills are not required for the PADI Discover Scuba Diving Program which is designed for complete beginners. Your instructor will guide you step by step, both in the pool & in the ocean, so you can relax & enjoy the adventure without worrying about swimming skills.
Absolutely. The Discover Scuba Diving program was created specifically for beginners. We start slow, in shallow water, where you'll practice a few simple skills. Once you're comfortable, we'll head to the ocean for your dive. Every step is supervised by a trained PADI professional.
The full program usually takes about half a day. It begins with a short briefing & a practice session in the pool, followed by your guided ocean dive. From start to finish, you'll spend around 4-5 hours with us.
For the best experience, we recommend completing your pool training a day before your ocean dive. This way, you can head out early the next morning when the sea is at its calmest & most beautiful.
At UNA, the DSD experience is first conducted in a swimming pool to make sure you train in calm, controlled conditions. Once you feel comfortable, we take you for a dive in the ocean under the close supervision of a PADI instructor.
The maximum allowed depth for a DSD experience in the ocean is 12 meters (40 feet). But, it's important to know that you will not go any deeper than you feel comfortable with.
This depends on each person's comfort level, breathing rate, & air consumption. On average, our DSD dives last between 25-40 minutes underwater, giving you plenty of time to explore & enjoy.
Not at all. The DSD experience is 100% instructor-led. Your instructor will be right beside you at all times - in the pool & throughout the ocean dive - making sure you feel safe, comfortable, & supported.
The minimum age to sign up for the PADI DSD Program is 10 years. There is no upper age limit, as long as you are in general good health.
While scuba diving does require some level of physical fitness, it is a relatively low-impact activity. You don't need to be extremely fit, but should be in general good health. However, it is recommended that individuals with underlying health issues & those over the age of 45 years consult a medical professional before going diving. We recommend reviewing the PADI Medical Questionnaire in advance so you know what to expect.
Of course, yes! Once you've completed your full DSD program with us (pool training + your first open water dive), you can sign up for additional ocean dives for up to 14 days without repeating the confined water training. Extra dives done on the same day cost INR 3835 per dive.
If more than 14 days pass, or if you choose to dive with another PADI dive centre, you'll need to repeat the confined water training before heading out for another open water dive. This ensures your safety and confidence in the water.
If you fall in love with diving (many do), your DSD can be credited towards the PADI Open Water Diver Course, the first full scuba certification, which opens doors to a whole lot of underwater adventures!
Still have questions? Feel free to contact us & we'll guide you through every step of the process!