2 Dive 4 Scuba

Dive Vacation Planning

How to choose your dive destination

1. What is your certification level and experience?
Choose a location that is right for you. Some locations cater to novice divers, others to the more advanced, and many accomodate all levels. Don't get caught on the wrong end of the spectrum.

2. What do you want out of your dive vacation?
Do you want to spend as much time as possible underwater? Do you want to take in some topside attractions? Or maybe you are seeking a happy medium. You should consider these questions when planning.

3. Will you be doing any training on vacation?
If you are planning to complete your open water training, or to take an advanced or specialty course, you should check on the agency affiliations and availability with the operator you are going to use.

4. What accomodations are available?
Are you looking for a campsite or the Taj Mahal? Or do you just want a place that is cozy and comfortable? Do your homework and get what you want.

5. Are you on a budget?
If you answered yes to the Taj Mahal, skip this part. If on the other hand you are like most of us, you must stay within a certain budget for vacations. Plan carefully and intelligently and you can stay within your means.

Take your time, talk with those who have been to the location you are interested in. Ask lots of questions and do not hesitate to call dive operators and hotels for more specific information. Some common questions to ask are listed below to help you along. Some will matter to you, some will not, and still others will just be nice to know. This is not a definitive list but something to help you get started

• What kind of accomodations are available and what are they like?
• What type of dive boats does the operator have and how many divers do they carry?
• Are there medical facilities nearby, and how far is the nearest recompression chamber?
• What kind of air fill system is used and is the air quality checked?
• What brands and types of equipment can be bought, rented and serviced?
• Are the dives guided or independently planned with a buddy?
• What are the diving depths at this location?
• What is the visibility and water temperature for the time of year you are visiting?
• What should you expect to see on your dives?
• Are instructors available for a class you would like to complete?
• Are camera and/or video equipment available for rent?
• Is photo processing available?
• Do the boats carry oxygen and first aid kits?
• Are there specific policies concerning the use of dive computers?
• Is nitrox available?
• How far is the hotel from the dive boat?
• How long are the boat rides to the sites?
• When is the best time of year to viit this location?

In addition to planning your travel, you should determine what you will need to take with you. Make a list (and check it twice) of dive equipment, spare parts, tickets, reservation confirmations, clothes and other personal items.

By carefully planning your dive vacation, you will have that extra assurance that you are getting the best value and most enjoyment out of those diving dollars. It may sound like a lot of legwork, but it is actually a lot of fun. So what are you waiting for? Start planning!!!

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