Submersus - Clube de Mergulho

Located at the Molhe Norte in Póvoa de Varzim, Submersus has been a fixture of the Northern Portuguese diving community since 2005. The centre is positioned in the local fishing port, providing a direct gateway to the Atlantic waters of the region.

As an SSI-affiliated school, the centre has built a reputation for bridging the gap between recreational exploration and serious technical diving. Whether you are looking to complete your first certification or are moving into the complexities of hypoxic Trimix, the facility is designed to support that progression.

The teaching philosophy at Submersus is rooted in the DIR (Dive, Information, Rescue) approach, placing a heavy emphasis on competence, safety, and streamlined skills. This focus on high-level proficiency makes it a significant destination for divers looking to refine their buoyancy or technical execution.

The instructor team is composed of professionals certified by the Portuguese Navy, with experience spanning various agencies including SSI, TDI, and GUE. This diverse background ensures that the instruction remains versatile, catering to both the recreational diver and the technical specialist.

Beyond instruction, the centre functions as a vital service hub for the local community. They operate as an authorised maintenance centre for major brands such as Poseidon, Halcyon, Scubapro, Apeks, Mares, and Aqualung, ensuring that local divers have access to professional servicing for their kit.

Submersus offers a complete spectrum of SSI certifications. For beginners, the curriculum starts with the Open Water Diver course, with clear pathways leading through Advanced Open Water Diver and specialty modules like Deep Diving, Navigation, and Perfect Buoyancy.

For those moving into the technical realm, the centre provides an extensive XR (Extended Range) programme. This includes XR Foundations, Extended Range Trimix, Technical Extended Range Trimix, and Hypoxic Trimix. They also offer specialised training in Decompression Diving, Dry Suit usage, and the use of DPV (scooters).

Professional development is also a core component of the school, with courses available for Divemaster, Dive Guide, and the Science of Diving. For those interested in the technical side of gas management, they offer Gas Blender courses for both Nitrox and Trimix.

The centre is fully equipped for both shore-based training and diving excursions. For those requiring kit, a full range of equipment is available for hire, including regulators, wetsuits, and fins. They also provide specialised equipment such as drysuits and DPV (scooter) units for advanced training.

The facility includes a dedicated classroom and a swimming pool for skill development and coursework. For the technical diver, the on-site gas blending station is a key asset, offering the ability to prepare Nitrox and Trimix mixes. They also provide full equipment maintenance services on-site to keep your regulator and BCD in top condition.