Scuba Coiba

Scuba Coiba is a PADI 5 Star Dive Center based in Santa Catalina and Isla Coiba, Panama, running excursions into Coiba National Park. Established in 2003 by Austrian Dive Instructor Herbie Sunk, it holds the distinction of being the pioneer dive center in the park. With three PADI Instructors and four languages spoken — English, Spanish, French and German — it welcomes divers of every level.

Courses and diving

The centre offers nine courses and activities, from PADI Discover Scuba Diving (from USD 190) for first-timers to the Full-Day Dive Trip into a UNESCO World Heritage Site (from USD 200). Divers looking to progress can take PADI Advanced Open Water Diver, PADI Deep Diver, PADI Enriched Air Diver, Adventure Diver, PADI ReActivate Scuba Refresher and the PADI Open Water Referral. Air fills, Nitrox and equipment rental are all available.

Local dive sites include Jicaron and Jicarita, Contreras, Canales, Ranvheria, Cebaco Bajo Cagado and Bajo Gringo, where divers may encounter sharks, whales, turtles and ocean fish. With an onsite classroom, free Wi-Fi and a waterfront location, it suits everyone from curious beginners to seasoned enthusiasts.