(Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver)
For the person that wants to learn how to scuba dive or take their diving to the next level. It requires 5 days to complete either PADI Open Water course or the PADI Advanced Course.
It is an intensive course and most of the day is spent either diving or studying the theory.
Back to Basics works with hand chosen instructors from around the world that shares the same passion for diving as the owners Jenny and Rupert. This means Back to Basics often have families and smaller groups looking for an exclusive experience learning how to dive.
Overview
Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve, which forms the first marine Transfrontier Conservation Area in Africa with Kosi Bay in South Africa, is well known for its rich biodiversity.
It is the home to 500 species of reef fish, 400 species of sea slugs and 19 species of sharks, not to mention that Southern Mozambique is home to 80% of all loggerhead and leatherback turtle nesting sites in Mozambique, the Humpback whales also passes on their annual migration in July-August. Ponta do Ouro is a marine biodiversity hotspot.
Ponta do Ouro offers over 40 different dive sites which varies from 10-40m in depth and 1km to 12km in distance from launch site.
The dive boat is a 7.5m rubber duck that is fully equipped to take up to 14 divers. The dive boat launches from the beach thru the surf, all divers are required to help push in the boat. All dives are drift dives being in the open ocean. Entry is done thru a backward roll. Safety is the main priority and there is radio and telephone communication to shore. Emergency oxygen is standard equipment and all staff is trained in emergency first response.
The Diving in Mozambique is exceptional but it requires a certain level of fitness.
We use SCUBAPRO equipment which is regularly serviced by qualified staff. All divers must present their qualification cards upon arrival.
Nitrox is available on request at a extra cost.
If there is a bad ocean day, we can arrange a day to visit to the Maputo Special Reserve. This pristine 1040-sq km wilderness area, formerly known as the Maputo Elephant Reserve, is at the centre of efforts by the Peace Parks Foundation to protect the wildlife and ecosystems of the surrounding Maputaland area, and to form links between marine, coastal and inland areas.
The reserve’s elephant population is currently estimated at about 450, other species include hippos, giraffes, zebras and impalas.