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Young divers: Spanish age rules differ
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Rules on minimum diving ages still vary between Spain, the autonomous Canary Islands and even certain mainland regions - contrary to a previous Divernet news posting.
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| Photo: John Bantin |
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In the Canaries, under new law passed in April, diving is 'permitted to anyone over the age of 16'. But provision is also made for younger divers under certain conditions, the Canarian Government adding: 'Under this age, parental permission must be given to dive or train.'
Acceptance or otherwise of young divers is, therefore, defined by parental opinion, any insurance-policy regulations, and the rules of any diver training agency involved. Minimum diving ages allowed by PADI and BSAC, for instance, are 10 and 12 respectively.
The Canarian law is not, however, a joint measure adopted by both the Canarian and Spanish Governments, as previously stated by Divernet. According to PADI's British office, which has sought clarification of the law in other parts of Spain, the nationally designated age limit remains '16 with no provisos'.
The rule in Catalonia differs from the national one, PADI's information being that in this region there is 'no age limit beyond that imposed by training agencies'.
And in Andalucia, says PADI, rules specify '12 minimum for introductory experiences (such as Discover Scuba Diving) and 14 minimum for certification'.
Once a potential diving holiday package for any of these areas has been sourced, anyone planning to dive with children is advised to check on the regulations with the dive centre concerned by email or phone before going ahead and booking.
Direct contact with the centre is recommended even when booking through a British holiday agent.
Related links
Canaries guide
Diving El Hierro
Spanish diving
Costa del Sol
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