Diving Vacations

Arranging Your Diving Vacations

Whether you're a brand new beginner to SCUBA diving or a seasoned pro, there is a beautiful diving vacation awaiting you. Before you take the plunge, here are some planning and preparation tips.

Planning ahead always helps you get on the best dives and find the best rates on airfare and prepackaged dive vacations. Find some options that interest you and contact the providers directly. Ask questions. How experienced is the guide? Where are they going to take me diving, and for how long? What will be provided during the dive (gear, meals, water, cameras?) What is the skill level of their regular excursion participants? If my travel companion is a better or less skilled diver than I, will either of our enjoyment suffer? What are the water conditions usually like? Will you be diving from the shore or a boat? What kind of marine wildlife can you expect to see? The more informed you are the better your expectations will be met for an enjoyable diving vacation.

Once you've determined and booked your diving vacation, here are some pre-trip tips.

If you're traveling to a foreign country, make sure you do your research as to what requirements there are for your visit. It's important to consider things like currency information, visa requirements, disease hazards and travel warnings, such weather activity like hurricanes.

Make a checklist of things to take on your diving vacation and double check you have them packed before you go. Many times on prepackaged diving vacations, gear like a wetsuit, mask, flippers and especially tanks are provided for you, but if you have your own, don't forget it! Another thought: mark it so you can easily identify it as yours.

If you're bringing your own gear, know what airline restrictions are regarding transport of diving equipment. And consider putting your essential equipment in your carry-on luggage. Make copies of vital documents, don't take unnecessary valuables with you, be sure to bring any necessary medications and don't over pack!

Look into dive insurance. Your health insurance policy may or may not not cover you if you have an accident while on a diving vacation. Travel insurance is also a good idea to think about.

Last but not least, be sure to have a wonderful time on your diving vacation. It's an experience you won't soon forget!