## How Much Does Scuba Diving Cost in Bora Bora?
Bora Bora is a world-renowned scuba diving destination, with crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. While the experience is truly unforgettable, the cost of scuba diving in Bora Bora can vary depending on a range of factors.
### Factors Influencing the Cost
**1. Dive Site:**
* **House Reefs:** Resorts and hotels often offer guided dives on their house reefs, which are typically more affordable than boat dives.
* **Boat Dives:** Boat dives take you to more remote and pristine dive sites, but they usually come with a higher price tag.
**2. Depth and Duration:**
* **Shallow and Short Dives:** These dives are typically less expensive than deep or extended dives.
* **Deep and Long Dives:** Dives that require specialized equipment or more time underwater will incur additional costs.
**3. Instructor and Guide Fees:**
* **Certified Divers:** Certified divers can often dive independently, but guided dives with an instructor or divemaster are recommended for beginners or experienced divers seeking a more personalized experience.
* **Non-Certified Divers:** Beginner divers require a Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) course or a full Open Water Certification course, which can significantly increase the cost.
### Average Costs
**Certified Divers:**
* House reef dive: $80-$120
* Boat dive: $120-$180
* 2-tank boat dive: $200-$250
**Non-Certified Divers:**
* Discover Scuba Diving (DSD): $150-$200
* Open Water Certification course: $500-$700
### Additional Costs
**1. Equipment Rental:**
* Scuba gear rental (tank, regulator, buoyancy compensator device, etc.): $30-$50 per day
* Wetsuit rental: $15-$25 per day
* Dive computer rental: $20-$30 per day
**2. Marine Park Fees:**
* Bora Bora is located within the protected area of the Polynesian Islands Marine Reserve. A daily marine park fee of $5 per person is charged for all divers.
### Tips for Saving Money
* **Book in advance:** Dive operators often offer discounts for early bookings or package deals.
* **Group discounts:** Consider joining a dive group or booking with friends or family to receive group discounts.
* **Dive during off-season:** The shoulder months (May-June and September-October) typically offer lower rates.
* **Negotiate with dive operators:** Don’t hesitate to ask for discounts or bundle deals, especially if you plan multiple dives.
### Conclusion
While scuba diving in Bora Bora is not cheap, the unforgettable experience and the chance to witness the underwater beauty of this paradise are well worth the investment. By considering the factors influencing the cost and utilizing money-saving tips, you can plan a scuba diving trip to Bora Bora that fits your budget while still creating memories that will last a lifetime.
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