Dive Travel, How to Prepare Yours?  A Complete Guide

A dive travel experience begins when the idea is born in a diver’s brain.

– So, what are you going to do on your vacation? Maybe another dive travel destination?

The two colleagues were having coffee, taking a break from their work in the office. They took refuge in the cafeteria. It was their time to unwind, and they liked to talk about hobbies, plans, families… anything but work. Fred, who is in love with diving travel, didn’t take a second to respond.

– Thinking of scuba travel options.

– Scuba diving again? OMG! Wouldn’t you prefer going to Mexico to lie in a hammock, drink margaritas and listen to mariachis?

-No.  – He answered. – Exploring the oceans is much more inspiring than resting in a hammock. With yearly dive travel, I challenge my physical and mental limits. Furthermore, there is nothing more exciting than discovering new underwater locations each year. You should give it a try!

OMG! He had already put the idea of a new scuba diving trip into words. His mind was filled with bubbles.

Mixing adventure, diving, and travel in a diver’s mind is like trapping a fly in a glass. It wants to escape. It crashes against the glass walls again and again until it is set free. The same goes for scuba diving travel in a diver’s mind. It has to become a reality.

You already have the idea. In this article, we help you bring it to life. We will present you with the best destinations and provide a comprehensive guide on perfect scuba travel planning. Get ready to embark on the dive travel adventure of your life.

Take a look at the table of contents.

Step 1: Choose Your Dive Travel Destination

To select your scuba travel destination, consider one crucial question: Where do you want to go? Every diver has a wish list waiting to be checked off, and now is the time to turn those dreams into reality. The decision ultimately boils down to your interests, budget, and the time you have at your disposal.

If you’re working with a week-long timeframe, opt for a destination that isn’t too far away from your place of residence by plane. After all, you want to spend your precious time enjoying what you love most, not stuck in transit, am I right?

Now, let’s think about your scuba diving travel partner. Will they be your faithful dive buddy, or will they seek other activities while you dive? Consider this, as it will lead you to the next question you need to answer: Where are we going?

Imagine having an incredible scuba travel experience in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. You are surrounded by palm trees, turquoise waters, and an underwater world teeming with vibrant coral reefs filled with tropical fish. The Caribbean is a diver’s paradise. It offers a kaleidoscope of colors and an incredible variety of dive sites, from stunning coral formations to thrilling wreck dives.

Or perhaps you are more interested in the Great Barrier Reef, where you can explore its breathtaking beauty and encounter unique marine species found nowhere else on Earth.

Alternatively, your heart may long for amazing underwater discoveries in Southeast Asia. In that case, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines are the places to go on your diving trip. These destinations offer underwater marvels, from enchanting coral gardens to thrilling encounters with majestic manta rays and gentle whale sharks.

Do you need suggestions for your diving travel? We have some for you in the following articles.

The 10 Best Diving Spots in The World

Best Scuba Diving Places in The Caribbean Sea: 7 Essential Destinations

The Best Places to Visit in The Dominican Republic If You Are a snorkeler or a Scuba Diver

Another point to solve in your dive travel dilemma is answering the question “When’s the Perfect Time to Dive?”

While Dressel Divers destinations in the Caribbean offer year-round diving goodness, other parts of the world have their own seasonal quirks. Take it into account when planning a scuba travel escapade.

Whether you’re eyeing the Great Barrier Reef in Australia or the captivating underwater landscapes of Southeast Asia, it’s crucial to remember that diving may be limited to specific seasons.

Step 2:  Decide the Type of Scuba Diving Travel You Want

When it comes to scuba diving travels, there’s a whole world of excitement waiting beneath the waves. But before you take the plunge, it’s essential to do your homework and gather all the juicy details about the dive sites that tickle your fancy: wrecks, cenotes, coral reefs, caves – the possibilities are endless!

We can make three scuba diving travel groups.

1. Dive Travels from Resorts – Unwind and Dive!

With this type of scuba diving travel, you have your base of operations in a hotel, usually on an all-inclusive basis.

It can be a diving resort. So, you will have all the facilities within the hotel complex, or you can move from your hotel to the dive center of your choice. The key here is that they will be the ones organizing the dives.

From our point of view, this is an advantage, because they are professionals with years of experience and know the location very well.

Imagine having your own slice of paradise in a beachfront resort, where everything is taken care of, including your epic scuba adventures. Dive resorts offer a perfect combination of comfort and underwater exploration. With professional dive centers on-site, you’ll have seasoned experts planning and guiding your dives.  Doing it with Dressel Divers is like having your own personal dive travel planner!

2. Liveaboard Cruise Scuba Travel – Dive, Sleep, Repeat!

Liveaboard scuba diving travel revolves around the vessel on which you reside and sleep. It provides all the necessary amenities for eating, resting, and preparing for dives. During this type of scuba diving travel, typically organized by a company, you partake in 4 to 5 pre-planned dives per day. These scuba travels are predominantly centered on the enjoyment of the sport itself.

Liveaboard cruises are a diver’s paradise, where the only thing on the agenda is pure aquatic bliss. However, since onboard activities are limited, it may not be as ideal if your travel partner is not a scuba diver.

3. Do-it-yourself (DIY) Scuba Diving Travel – Master of Your Own Dive Destiny!

If you’re the adventurous type who loves planning every detail, then DIY scuba travel is your ticket to underwater freedom. For this type of scuba diving travel, the planning of the dives does not depend on another person. You will have to do it yourself, as well as everything else: accommodation, grocery shopping, restaurant reservations, boat reservations, equipment rental, etc.

You know, there is no glory without suffering: “Work hard, play hard!”

Step 3: Booking the Journey

Now that you’ve chosen your dream destination for scuba travel and how it will be, it’s time to take the next exciting step: booking your hotel and airline tickets. These are the big-ticket items of your scuba diving adventure, so let’s dive right into the details and make sure you’re prepared to make the most of your trip! We recommend reading the article “How to Book Scuba Diving” for helpful tips and insights on the booking process.

When it comes to scuba travel planning, booking your flights and accommodations should go hand in hand. After all, one depends on the other! So, once you’ve set your sights on the perfect destination, it’s time to start comparing flight options. Utilize handy rate comparison tools like Google’s or explore the offerings of different airlines that operate in your chosen spot. Pro tip: Keep an eye out for any special deals or promotions!

As for the accommodation, you must choose between the three scuba travel options you already know.

Of course, if your choice is DIY, your options expand concerning hotels, apartments, exchange accommodations, etc. But if you’re looking to go on a liveaboard cruise or book your stay at a resort along with your dive package in the Caribbean, get in touch with Dressel Divers.

Our team of seasoned professionals is here to assist you every step of the way. Need help with reservations or looking for the most economical options? Just give us a shout by writing to info@dresseldivers.com, and we’ll ensure you have a smooth and budget-friendly scuba diving travel experience.

Step 4: Essential Considerations for Planning Your Dive Travel

• Set Your Dive Travel Itinerary

Planning which dives to do and where to do them is also extremely easy with Dressel Divers’ Information Department.

At Dressel Divers, we understand that you want to make the most of your scuba travel experience. That’s why our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to answer all your questions and provide valuable advice.

From must-visit dive sites in each location to the best excursions, our team will ensure you don’t miss out on any underwater wonders.

Need to make reservations for your dives? Consider it done! We’ll help you secure your spot and ensure a seamless experience. Plus, we’ll keep you in the loop about the most economical packs and exclusive offers, so you can maximize your dive travel without breaking the bank.

• Find a Trusted Dive Center

If you’re not fortunate enough to have a professional team like Dressel Divers at your disposal, fear not! We encourage you to do some searching to find reputable dive centers in your desired area. By contacting them directly, you can plan an itinerary tailored to your interests and preferences. Dive centers are a treasure trove of local knowledge and can provide insider tips to ensure your scuba travel adventure is everything you dreamed of.

• Obtain the Necessary Certification for Your Dive Travel

We know you’re not a newcomer, but it’s important to ensure you have the proper certification before embarking on your scuba travel adventure. Some adventures may require more knowledge and experience than a basic Open Water certification. For instance, many liveaboards require divers to have the Advanced Diver level.

On the other hand, why not consider specializing in areas like wreck diving or underwater photography? It’s a great way to enhance your skills and make the most of your underwater experiences.

• Dive Equipment

Before you embark on your scuba travel, it’s crucial to ensure you have the right gear in top-notch condition. From masks and fins to regulators and wetsuits, having reliable equipment is key to maximizing your underwater thrills.

But wait, there’s more! For cave diving, ice diving, night diving, or if you’re passionate about technical diving, you’ll need specialized equipment. Get your hands on it or find out where to rent it.

Make sure to check out our article, “How to Rent Scuba Gear in the Caribbean?”

Step 5: Moving Around During Scuba Diving Travel

As you embark on preparing for dive travel, you’ll progress to considering how you will transport yourself from the airport to your accommodation.

Option 1: Dive Resort Delight – Hassle-Free Travel Arrangements with Dressel Divers

When you choose Dressel Divers for your scuba travel experience, you can leave the travel arrangements to us. Our expert team will meticulously plan your excursions in advance, including transportation logistics. Say goodbye to the headache of figuring out how to get from point A to point B. Sit back, relax, and let us take care of the details, so you can focus on the breathtaking dives ahead.

Option 2: Planning on Your Own

Will you opt to rent a car and cruise along scenic routes? Or perhaps you prefer the convenience of a taxi or the thrill of exploring by bus or train? Whatever your choice, you’ll need to factor in schedules and coordinate them with the start times of your dives. Yes, it can be a bit challenging, but fear not – with a little planning and a sense of adventure, you’ll navigate your dive travel waters like a pro!

Step 6: How to Pack Your Travel Dive Bag

Are you ready to embark for unforgettable dive travel? Whether you prefer to travel light with just your mask and fins, opt for a full set of gear, or fall somewhere in between, we’ve got you covered! We understand that packing for a dive trip can be a bit overwhelming, but fear not! We’ve anticipated this predicament and have prepared the perfect solution just for you: a comprehensive list of must-pack items.

Specifically tailored to make your scuba diving travel a breeze, our list covers all the essentials, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the exciting underwater world that awaits you. Get it reading our article:  Tropical Vacation Packing List for Divers (With Downloadable Template)

Step 7: Scuba Travel Papers

If you’re planning an exciting dive travel adventure abroad, we know, paperwork can be a buzzkill, but trust us, it’s crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Check Passport

First things first, dust off that passport! Before you embark on your diving travel abroad, make sure your passport is valid. But here’s the catch: it must be valid for at least 6 months from your flight’s departure date. Nobody wants to be stranded in a foreign land due to a passport predicament, right?

Don’t Leave the VISA for the Last Minute

Depending on the countries you plan to visit during your dive travel, you might need a VISA to stay. Don’t make the mistake of leaving this important matter for the last minute. Research the visa requirements well in advance and ensure you have the necessary documentation in order.

Travel Insurance with Diving

Why Scuba Diving Travel Insurance is a Must?

We all know that diving is an exciting recreational sport that has significantly improved its safety through technological advancements. While it is safer than ever, we must acknowledge that there are still risks beneath the waves. That’s why diving insurance is not only a good idea but also a mandatory requirement in many countries around the world. The concept is simple: no insurance, no diving.

While the risk of decompression sickness, barotrauma, or gas embolism in recreational diving is very low, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Your regular travel or personal medical insurance may not cover your needs as scuba diver (using a hyperbaric chamber for example). You know how insurance companies can be, right?

Medical expenses during a dive-related emergency can be staggering, enough to leave you financially ruined. According to DAN (Divers Alert Network), hyperbaric chamber treatments alone can cost anywhere from $330 to $1,000 per hour, not to mention medication costs and doctor’s fees.

Don’t take the risk. Get scuba diving travel insurance.

Know more about them in our article Dive Insurance, What Should I Know Before Buying One?

Certification Card and Medical Checkup

Will you want to have your certification card in tow? Won’t you? The little card proudly showcases your diving level and expertise. Don’t forget it!

Speaking about forgetting something important. Leaving your medical “ok for diving” certification at home could be a great mistake. Safety first, scuba diver! Don’t forget to schedule a medical check up before your scuba diving travel.

Step 8: Prevent Cash and Dive Travel Expenses

We all know that when it comes to travel, having some moolah is essential. From our experience, the key is to have a mix of cash for small expenses and a trusty credit card for those unexpected payments that may come up along the way.

Our pro tip? Get ahead of the game by making your purchases and reservations before you embark on your scuba travel journey. By planning in advance, you can organize your itinerary, secure your desired accommodations, and even enjoy substantial discounts. For example, Dressel Divers offers a fantastic 20% discount on your diving purchases when you buy online. So, why wait?

If you want a stress-free and customized scuba travel experience, simply reach out to us! Our team will gladly assist you in preparing the perfect underwater adventure, tailored to your preferences. Let’s make this scuba travel journey unforgettable!