Overall, my general diving experience was quite negative.
To begin with, the dive instructor had a rather authoritarian communication style. His dry, rude way of speaking to both customers (us) and his staff did not help to create a good atmosphere within the group—something I had never experienced before on a dive trip.
Right from the start, the instructor didn’t even ask for our names (we were a group of four people). I found this to be a deeply impolite gesture, which could have had consequences for the group’s safety (in the event of a emergency on the surface, he wouldn’t even have known how to call us by name). I believe that, for safety reasons, when participating in a group activity that involves potential risks—such as diving—all participants should know each other’s names. Besides, it’s simply a matter of basic courtesy.
When we were still on the pier, one of the group members (a certified diver with limited experience) noticed that her tank had only 150 bar instead of the standard 200 bar. The instructor’s reaction was rude, blaming her for the issue and speaking to her in an inappropriate tone—without taking any responsibility himself.
In my opinion, when we pay a significant amount of money to dive with a professional guide, the dive school has a duty to meet certain basic quality standards. Providing full tanks is part of the service we are paying for, and ensuring that is the school’s responsibility. Shaming a participant instead of handling the situation professionally only worsens the group atmosphere, undermines confidence, and makes everyone uncomfortable.
The dive itself was also chaotic and disappointing. The instructor chose to group together divers with vastly different experience levels—some very experienced, others complete beginners who required constant assistance. As a result, neither group really benefited from the dive. Additionally, the dive plan and objectives discussed during the briefing were not followed, leaving the overall experience feeling disorganized and disappointing.
Finally, once we returned to the dive center, the instructor didn’t even bother to conduct a debriefing to review the dive—what went well, what could be improved, whether the objectives were met, and why or why not.
In summary, this was a disappointing and poorly managed dive experience. The instructor lacked the interpersonal skills to foster a positive and safe group dynamic, and there were serious shortcomings in terms of safety. All in all, a poor service for a high price. I would not recommend this...
Read moreDiving with Lofoten Diving was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I came in as a beginner, freshly certified in Open Water and a little nervous about doing my Dry Suit certification. Daniel and his team made me feel completely at ease from the very first moment.
Daniel is not only incredibly knowledgeable but also patient, kind, and attentive. He took the time to explain everything clearly, without ever rushing me, and checked in with me constantly throughout the dive. His calm and reassuring presence made all the difference. I truly felt supported, seen, and safe the entire time.
And then there's the dive itself. Absolutely breathtaking. The visibility in the Lofoten waters was unreal, clear and full of life. We saw sea urchins, crabs, a sunflower sea star, a quick little starfish I had never seen before, and even had a school of fish glide right past us. It was like being in another world.
If you’re thinking of diving in Lofoten, whether you’re just starting out or already experienced…I can’t recommend this team enough. Thank you for such a magical, confidence-boosting,...
Read moreA Highly Memorable and Worthwhile Experience
Having lived in the Bahamas my entire life, the idea of voluntarily entering Arctic water once seemed laughable. However, I decided to join friends on a snorkeling excursion with Lofoten Dive Center as their photographer.
As a former scuba instructor, I had always believed it would be impossible for me to wear a dry suit due to my claustrophobia.
Daniel, the owner, left a lasting impression with his quiet confidence and professionalism. To my amazement, he convinced me to wear a dry suit for the first time in my life and to enter the water.
What I experienced was unforgettable: kelp beds, sponges, underwater canyons, and Arctic marine life beneath the surface, with the surreal, snow-covered Lofoten landscape gliding past every time I lifted my head.
I have been visiting Lofoten regularly for nearly 14 years and am well-acquainted with its stunning natural beauty and numerous touristic opportunities. This experience, however, stands out as one I strongly...
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