Buceador 1 Estrella FEDAS-CMAS (B1E)/OWD

Sea&Sun offers the entry-level certification in two parallel tracks: the Open Water Diver PADI at 430€ or the Buceador 1 Estrella FEDAS-CMAS (B1E) at 350€. Both are internationally recognised, but they differ in one important technical detail — the CMAS B1E allows decompression diving, while the PADI OWD does not. The CMAS qualification also reaches 25 metres once you have 20 logged dives under your belt (initially certified to 20 m), versus 18 metres for the OWD.

The theory phase is fully remote: after paying the 150€ enrolment fee, the centre sends the course manual as a PDF and gives you access to their online platform. You work through each topic at home, complete the tests at the end of each chapter, and contact your assigned instructor by phone, email or WhatsApp for any questions. There is no need to be in Almería for this part.

The practical dives happen in the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Marine Reserve, in open water from the very first session. Under normal conditions, four sea dives are enough to complete all the exercises. If you have difficulty with any of them, up to two extra sessions are included at no additional charge, subject to your instructor's assessment. You can complete all practical sessions over a single weekend, though the centre recommends May through December for more comfortable water temperatures — January to April is doable but requires 7mm wetsuits, thermal vests and gloves.

The course price covers up to six practical sessions including equipment, the theoretical materials and the instructor. The 150€ enrolment is paid first; the remaining balance (200€ for CMAS B1E or 280€ for PADI OWD) is paid when you arrive for the practical sessions. The centre also offers payment in instalments with no interest. An optional annual international dive insurance can be added for 30€ extra.

Once you pass both theory and practicals and settle the full balance, you receive your international dive certification. From there, the B2E/Advanced OWD course at 320€ is the natural next step, taking you to 40 metres.