I’ve run hundreds of guided dives and island trips around Lanzarote, so I get asked all the time: “How much will a week of island sports actually cost?” Below I break down a realistic, budget-friendly plan for seven days on Lanzarote that mixes scuba diving, snorkeling/windsurf rentals, local transport and the small extras that surprise travellers. This is what I’d do if I wanted maximum ocean time on a modest budget — and what I tell readers who ask for honest, practical numbers.
Sample week at a glance
My sample week assumes you want to dive multiple times, rent kit for a day or two, try windsurfing or extra snorkel trips, and rely on local transport (bus, occasional taxi or car hire for a day). It’s aimed at a budget-conscious traveller who still wants quality experiences — guided dives with a reputable centre, safe rentals, and a few treats.
- 7 nights accommodation (budget apartment or guesthouse)
- 4 guided shore dives + 2 boat dives (6 dives total)
- 2 days of kit rental (BCD, regulator, wetsuit) for free diving/snorkel/windsurf support
- Public transport + one day car hire to reach remote spots
- Food, small extras, and conservative contingency
Why this mix?
Shore dives on Lanzarote are excellent and cheaper than boat dives — many iconic sites (e.g. Los Charcones, Playa Chica) are accessible from shore. But you’ll want a couple of boat dives for access to archipelagos and deeper volcanic walls. Renting full kit a couple of days keeps luggage light, and a short car hire lets you reach Papagayo bays or Famara windsurf spots without long bus detours. I recommend guided dives if you’re not familiar with local currents, marine life and entry/exit points — local guides make more dives comfortable and safe.
Real cost breakdown (prices in EUR)
| Item | Unit cost | Qty | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget apartment (self-cater) | €50 / night | 7 nights | €350 |
| Guided shore dive (local dive centre) | €35 per guided dive | 4 | €140 |
| Boat dive (includes guide & boat) | €55 per dive | 2 | €110 |
| Tank fills (if not included) | €6 per tank | 6 | €36 |
| Full rental (BCD + reg + wetsuit) | €20 / day | 2 days | €40 |
| Snorkel & mask (if buying budget) | €25 | 1 | €25 |
| One-day car hire (compact) | €35 | 1 | €35 |
| Public transport & taxis | — | — | €40 |
| Food & drinks (self-cater + occasional restaurant) | €25 / day | 7 | €175 |
| Small extras (park fees, lockers, tips) | — | — | €30 |
| Total estimated | €981 |
This puts a realistic low-to-mid budget week at roughly €950–€1,050. You can go lower or higher depending on choices (more boat dives, staying in a hotel, or bringing more gear from home).
How costs vary — and where to save
I’ve learned a few tricks to reduce costs without sacrificing safety or experience:
- Use shore dives where possible: Shore dives are typically €25–€40 guided versus €50–€70 for boat trips. They’re ideal for multiple dives in a week.
- Rent selectively: Bring your mask/snorkel and boots if you can — they’re small and make a huge difference. Rent heavy kit (BCD, regs) only for days you need it. I often travel with my mask + dive computer and rent everything else.
- Book packages: Local centres often offer dive packages (e.g. 6 dives for €180) which reduces per-dive cost. Ask about nitrox costs — sometimes €5–€10 extra per dive but very useful for repetitive diving.
- Self-cater: Apartments save money — supermarket prices in Lanzarote are reasonable and fresh fish markets make great budget dinners.
- Off-peak timing: Mid-week and shoulder season generally have lower prices and quieter sites.
Optional extras worth budgeting for
- Nitrox fills: If you plan multiple dives over consecutive days I recommend nitrox — typically €5–€12 per cylinder. It helps reduce nitrogen loading and can make a tired diver feel fresher for the next dive.
- PADI courses: If you’re not certified and want to get Open Water, expect €300–€450 for a full course (varies by centre). Try a Discover Scuba session (€45–€70) if you’re unsure.
- Underwater camera hire: Want photos without buying gear? Basic GoPro-style rental is often €15–€25/day.
Packing and gear tips to keep costs down
- Bring your own mask and dive computer. Mask fit alone can make or break a holiday. I recommend a low-volume mask (e.g. Cressi Big Eyes) that packs flat.
- Consider a travel wetsuit or shorty if you’re doing lots of free-diving/snorkel days — renting full suits repeatedly adds up.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a thin rash vest — cheaper than buying on the island and useful every day.
- If you’re a frequent traveller, invest in a compact regulator or octo? (only if you’re comfortable with maintenance) — otherwise renting is fine.
Local transport: practical realities
Public buses (Intercity buses and local lines) are cheap — €2–€8 depending on distance. However, some of the best dive and snorkel spots (Papagayo, remote northern coves) are tricky by public transport and require a taxi or car. I usually budget for one day car hire (€30–€50) to access remote bays early in the morning for calm conditions. Taxis are convenient but add up fast — expect €25–€50 for cross-island trips.
Safety-first budgeting
On an island with variable wind and swell, I never skimp on reputable dive centres, properly maintained kit, and boat insurance. A slightly higher upfront fee for a good operator often saves money in the long run by avoiding aborted dives, lost kit or safety incidents. Ask dive centres about their emergency oxygen, spare regulators, and instructor-to-diver ratios — these are worth paying for.
Final practical notes
Prices vary with season and operator, so use this breakdown as a working plan. I always call dive centres ahead, ask for package prices, and check reviews for kit condition. If you want, tell me your travel dates and priorities (more diving vs more windsurfing) and I’ll sketch a customised, cost-optimised week for Lanzarote.
