Not recommended for beginner diver
Introductory Try Dive: not advised that sea entry was via walking over slippery rocks while balancing heavy 26kg equipment load carried on my back and strong waves knocking me off my feet. One slip could easily result in splitting your head open or smashing your face onto sharp rocks.
Sea entry from a jetty, pier or boat would have been the usual safer option for a novice. Also the basic skills briefing was on land, not in a swimming pool, so no chance to practice breathing through the regulator or clearing your mask before hitting the ocean. Did not feel it was a safe, enjoyable experience.
Reply from Brothers Diving
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. We’re genuinely sorry to hear that your experience didn’t align with your expectations, and we understand that stepping into the underwater world for the first time can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re not feeling physically or mentally prepared.
Diving is, by its very nature, a physical and psychological activity. It requires a minimum level of comfort, composure, and readiness—qualities we do our utmost to support in every guest, but which ultimately must come from within the individual.
On the day of your session, the conditions were calm with only a light swell. The group was small—three participants accompanied by two qualified instructors—allowing for well above-standard supervision. All other participants entered the water safely and completed the dive without difficulty.
You were accompanied and physically supported at all times by an instructor, and were kindly asked to take only a few steps forward into a calm area specifically chosen for beginners. This is a standard shore entry, used worldwide in introductory dives for safety and control. While you chose not to proceed beyond the shoreline, we respect that decision entirely. Diving is not for everyone, and recognizing one's own limits is an important part of the process.
With regard to the entry method: pier or boat entries, while they may seem "easier" at first glance, are unsuitable for Try Dives. These locations involve significant depth and require a level of confidence and control not typical of someone doing their very first dive. The choice of location was based on safety, not convenience.
As for the briefing: skills were explained in detail on land, as is standard for Try Dives. These sessions are not formal training courses, and do not typically involve pool time—though participants are always invited to ask questions or request clarification before entering the water. We regret that, in your case, anxiety appears to have overshadowed the experience.
We can assure you—and those reading this review—that your safety was never compromised at any point. The conditions, the instructor ratio, the location, and the procedures were all appropriate and carefully considered. While it’s understandable to feel discomfort when trying something entirely new, it's important to distinguish between personal fear and objective risk.
Should you ever wish to try again in the future, and feel more mentally and physically prepared, we’d be happy to welcome you back—just as we do with many guests who, like you, found their first attempt more challenging than expected.
Warm regards,
Brothers Diving Team