Baracuda

Looking to explore the Black Sea? Baracuda is a dive center based in Varna, Bulgaria, and the only PADI Five Star dive center in the country. With a multilingual, multinational team that has spent many years living and diving around Varna, the focus here is on small groups, safety, patience and a relaxed atmosphere — whether you're stepping into the water for the first time or training toward professional levels.

Courses and dive sites

Training runs from the PADI Open Water Diver course (from USD 787, around 4 days) for newcomers to the Advanced Open Water Diver course (from USD 597, around 3 days) for those ready to deepen their knowledge. Instruction is offered in English, German and Russian, using brand-new, carefully maintained gear.

Local diving leans into the region's underwater character, with sites including The Anchor, the WWII USSR submarines Sht-211 and Sht-204, Regele Carol I, Stingray Station and Seahorse Garden at Galata. With air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a retail shop, dive boat, parking and a waterfront location — plus snorkelling for non-diving friends — Baracuda suits curious beginners and experienced divers alike.