Private vs Group Scuba Diving Lessons in London: Which Should You Choose?
Scuba diving is an incredible way to explore the underwater world, but before you dive into the open water or take on the challenge of a more technical dive, getting the proper training is essential.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to build on your skills, our PADI scuba diving lessons in London offer a safe, structured way to learn. But are you more suited to a group course or private lessons? In this guide, we explore the pros and cons of both to help you decide.
Why Take Scuba Diving Lessons in London?
The city may not have a coral reef on its doorstep, but London is still a great place to start your scuba diving journey with Oyster Diving. Here’s why:
- Top-tier facilities: Lessons are provided in a state-of-the-art, heated pool at Marshall Street Leisure Centre in Soho, London. You’ll be able to focus on skill development without the concern of unpredictable conditions.
- PADI-certified instructors: You’ll learn from the very best instructors with years of experience under their belt. All of our instructors are PADI-qualified and trained to deliver PADI’s high-quality scuba diving courses.
- Gain essential skills: Taking structured scuba diving lessons in London ensures you learn essential safety techniques, master buoyancy control and gain confidence, all in familiar surroundings, before heading to open water or venturing abroad.
Divers can learn the ropes through two main options: private lessons, offering one-on-one instruction tailored to your needs, or group lessons, where you’ll train alongside other divers in a fun, social setting.
Both have unique benefits – so which is right for you? Let’s explore the differences.
Private Scuba Diving Lessons: Pros and Cons
Taking private scuba diving lessons in London – or, indeed, elsewhere in the UK – offers a one-on-one learning experience that’s completely tailored to you and your needs.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ You’ll get the full focus of an experienced PADI instructor. | ✖ Private scuba lessons tend to be more expensive due to dedicated instructor time. |
| ✔ More flexibility – private lessons can be arranged to fit around your personal commitments. | ✖ If you enjoy the camaraderie of learning alongside others, private lessons may feel more isolated. |
| ✔ Courses can be tailored to the skills you want to develop or perfect most. | |
| ✔ With direct feedback and no waiting for others in a group, you can advance at your own pace. | |
| ✔ Private lessons are exactly that – more private. Ideal for those who need discretion. |
Group Scuba Diving Lessons: Pros and Cons
Group scuba diving courses offer a more social way to learn, making them a popular choice for beginners and those who enjoy learning in a team environment.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ Training alongside others creates a more supportive and fun atmosphere, where you can meet like-minded divers. | ✖ While instructors provide guidance, you won’t receive the same personalised focus as in private lessons. |
| ✔ Group lessons cost less than private sessions, making learning to dive more accessible and budget-friendly. | ✖ Group courses run on set dates, which may not be as flexible for those with busy schedules or time constraints. |
| ✔ Watching fellow divers practice techniques can help reinforce your own understanding. | ✖ Everyone progresses differently, so some divers may need more time on certain skills, while others may be ready to move forward. |
| ✔ Group lessons create a sense of camaraderie, perfect for those who enjoy working with others and celebrating progress as a team. |
Which Option Is Best For You?
Choosing between private and group scuba diving lessons in London depends on your learning style, confidence level, and personal preferences. Both options provide high-quality PADI-certified training, but here are some questions to ask yourself when deciding:
Private Lessons: Best for Personalised and Flexible Learning
- Do you learn better with one-on-one, personalised attention?
- Do you feel nervous about learning to dive and want extra reassurance?
- Do you have a busy schedule or need to learn diving skills in a specific timeframe?
- Do you have the budget to cover the additional expense of private courses?
- Do you want to attain your scuba diving skills in a private, low-profile environment?
- Do you prefer to progress at your own pace?
- Do you have specific skills you would like to prioritise?
If the answer to some or all of these questions is yes, we’d recommend speaking to us about private scuba diving lessons in London.
Group Lessons: Best for Social Learning and Affordability
- Do you thrive in a team environment?
- Are you looking to build or join a community of like-minded divers?
- Do you prefer a more affordable, value-for-money option?
- Do you learn best when you have other individuals to bounce off of and learn from?
- Is your time flexible, meaning you can work to a set course schedule?
If the answer to some or all of these questions is yes, our recommendation would be to go for a group diving course.
Oyster Diving Scuba School in London
At Oyster Diving, we offer award-winning PADI-certified scuba diving lessons in London, designed to suit divers of all levels. Whether you’re a complete beginner looking to take your first plunge or an experienced diver refining your skills, our expert instructors ensure a safe, supportive, and engaging learning experience.
We offer a range of PADI courses, from the popular Open Water diving certification to more specialised courses such as Tech Diving courses and PADI Master Scuba Diver. With small group sizes, every diver gets the attention they need, while our flexible private lessons offer a tailored approach for those who prefer one-on-one instruction.
Private or Group Lessons – Book Today!
Both private and group scuba diving lessons in London offer fantastic benefits depending on your learning style, budget and goals. Private lessons provide personalised instruction and flexibility, while group courses offer a social and cost-effective way to learn.
Oyster Diving is here to help you start your diving journey with expert guidance and world-class facilities. Ready to take the plunge? Book your first lesson today and experience the thrill of scuba diving in London.