There are typically two choices when it comes to planning a scuba diving vacation. You can opt for a land destination tour or a live-aboard tour package. If you choose a land-based trip you can choose from hotel, cottage or more luxury accommodation and a variety of diving packages.
A live-aboard diving vacation is like living on a floating hotel where you are as close as you could be to your diving destination. The boats are often quite large and cater for about 15 to 25 passengers. Facilities are luxurious and comfortable and the food is excellent so you aren’t likely to long for the comforts of home on your scuba diving vacation.
Some boats also offer trips to shore but they usually focus primarily on diving. If you fancy the idea of living at sea and being close to a wide variety of dive spots then a this is the best choice for your diving vacation.
When you sign up for a diving vacation make sure you know what is included in your package and get the details in writing. Land-based tours usually offer a certain number of diving days, two or three boat dives per day, a night boat dive and unlimited shore dives. Tanks and weights are usually included. Accommodations may be included if you are going via a diving resort.
Scuba diving equipment is not generally included in your package so you’ll need to buy or hire your own. If you are going to rent equipment on your diving vacation make sure to find a hirer who offers good quality equipment as this can vary quite considerably depending on your destination. If you are only going to rent some of your equipment make sure that the rental gear is compatible with your own equipment.
Where possible take your own mask, snorkel, fins, exposure suit, buoyancy compensator, and regulator - rentals probably wont fit as well - and take
along a pair of booties as these are seldom available for rent. Avoid trying to buy all new equipment at resorts on your diving vacation unless you know they have all the sizes you need.
Before you leave for your scuba vacation have all your diving gear tested and serviced. Regulators should be overhauled once a year or after a long period of storage. Test the equipment in a pool to make sure everything is in working order before leaving on your diving vacation. Check straps, releases, and zippers for wear and tear. If you encounter problems on the boat you may not be in a position to find replacement equipment.
If you haven’t much diving experience brush up on your skills before leaving on your scuba diving vacation or take a refresher course. Nobody likes to think about a diving accident - but do make sure that your medical insurance covers accidents in other countries and whether it covers an air ambulance and hyperbaric chamber treatment. The Divers Alert Network (DAN) can provide this type of assistance.
Never head off on your diving vacation without your certification card (C-card). Most dive resorts will not allow you to dive without one. Take along your dive log too. It’s proof of your diving experience. Tropical destinations outside the U.S. ask for identification and a return ticket before you will be allowed into the country. A passport or voter registration card is typically enough for the
Caribbean islands - make sure you know what you need before you go. Enjoy planning your scuba diving vacation!
