How do you choose a dive center? Whether you’re learning to scuba dive for the first time or you’re a seasoned diver, it’s a good idea to satisfy yourself that the dive centre you choose to dive with meets all your safety criteria. Here are the 10 top questions to ask any dive center you are considering.
1. What languages do the Divemasters speak?
Most dive centers have multi-lingual dive leaders so make sure your prospective dive center can provide you with a Divemaster that you can understand.
2. Is the Divemaster present in the water on all dives?
If the answer is ‘no’, seriously consider going elsewhere. The Divemaster should be in the water for at least the first portion of the dive. If there are novice divers in the group, the Divemaster may surface early. As long as you’re comfortable with this, it shouldn’t be a problem.
3. Are oxygen, life jackets, and first aid available on the boats?
All dive boats should carry these basic safety aids. Make sure you’re aware of their location at the start of your trip.
4. Where is the nearest recompression chamber?
The dive center should know the location of the nearest recompression chambers and have their contact details on hand as part of their emergency action plan.
5. Do I need to fill out a Medical Form?
Always ask to fill in a medical form. If you are taking a PADI course and answer yes to any of the questions, you will need to consult a doctor prior to booking. Be aware that any doctor clearing you for diving must be familar with the RSTC (Recreational Scuba Training Council) guidelines for diving.
6. What about transfers? Are they included in the price?
If the dive center is not in the same location as your hotel, transfers are sometimes provided free of charge. However, always check so you don’t get any nasty surprises.
7. Can you store my equipment for me?
Most centers should provide you with a safe storage space for your gear and name tags, so it doesn’t get mixed up with other gear.
8. How many people will I be diving with?
This can vary enormously. Given the opportunity, some dive centers will squeeze more profit out of their dive trips by increasing the divemaster:diver ratio. If you are diving in a region that is known for currents and drift diving the maximum ratio ideally should not exceed 1:4.
9. What is included in a diving package?
Most diving packages include two dives a day, tanks, and weights. However, some centers may charge a supplement for equipment, extra dives, wreck dives or specialty dives. Remember that pre-booked diving packages are generally cheaper than walk-in bookings.
10. Can I choose where I dive?
Some centers will not be able to take you where you want every day. Other centers will have enough boats and divers to be able to make a group to almost any destination. So, if you have your heart set on diving a particular site, ask upfront to avoid being disappointed. Be aware though that not all sites are diveable on every day depending on sea conditions and tides.
Are you ready to pick out your next diving destination? Get inspired and check out the best diving destinations on PADI Travel!
This blog was originally written by Jackie Hutchings and published on the Diviac Magazine.