Visiting a beautiful coastal destination for scuba diving can be an exciting trip to plan. For it to be a successful trip, however, you need to ensure you prepare everything you will need.
1. Check to Ensure You Have the Proper Equipment
One of the first and most important tasks for planning a successful scuba diving trip is to ensure you have the proper scuba diving equipment to use. If it’s been a long time since you have used your gear, have them checked and serviced by a professional. This should be done early in the planning phase. If you have gear needing a technician to fix, you want enough time to get the repairs completed before you leave for your trip.
2. Get Certified
Getting certified as a scuba diver can be a great way to expand your knowledge and enjoy the underwater world. There are many great dive shops and schools that can help you complete your course. Get started early by taking advantage of online e-learning courses. This method allows you to complete the theory portion of your course before you leave for your diving location.
If you’re already a certified diver, consider upgrading to an Advanced Open Water Diver course. This level allows you to explore deeper waters and improve your skills in various areas such as navigation and buoyancy. Ideally, prepare for your trip by doing as much of your pre-course learning at home. Doing so will make the experience more relaxing.
3. Choose Dive Location
Some factors go beyond price when it comes to choosing a dive location. Aside from choosing a place, consider the duration and budget of your trip. If you’re planning to go with a group of people who are not divers, check the availability of diving facilities in the area. Doing this will ensure they’ll be safe and comfortable on the dive.
4. Check Health Before Trip
While it’s not as intense as high-impact diving, any dive still requires the proper care and preparation to avoid injuries. Before you go diving, make an appointment with a medical professional to ensure you’re healthy enough to safely perform the activity. Being healthy will allow you to enjoy your dive responsibly and without taking unnecessary risks with your well-being.
5. Have Travel Insurance
Obtaining travel insurance is a good idea when planning a diving trip. It can help protect you from unforeseen events or accidents. Some policies may not cover scuba diving, but they can still provide coverage for certain conditions. If you dive regularly, you may want to obtain specific insurance that covers divers, such as Divers Alert Network (DAN).
6. Book in Advance
If you already know when your trip dates are, it will be best to book your dives as early as possible to ensure there are openings. Ideally, start your diving trip at an early morning start time to take advantage of the beautiful ocean before the other divers have arrived.
Cenotes can get busy during the day, so make sure to visit them before the crowds. The light from the beams makes them so special. Ask about any special offers that are available at the dive sites you want to visit.
7. Pack Your Gear
It’s important to pack all of your gear before going on a trip. Many divers have left their diving computers at home and forgot to bring their diving boots with them. Depending on the number of dives that you’ll take, your gear may vary. You can also rent equipment if you need something for your dive you didn’t bring with you.
8. Enjoy Your Dive!
If you have planned accordingly, you will be sure to have a great dive session. To stay safe, always listen to your dive instructor. Don’t eat too much food before your booked dive appointment to avoid cramps. Also, be sure to bring a towel, your swimsuit, water, snacks and all of your dive gear.
By planning early, you can save yourself from having to waste time at the check-in counter at the airport or making arrangements for boats that are full. Planning a few days or even weeks early can make a huge difference.
