Frequently Asked Questions

Scuba diving provides a range of physical and mental benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, increased strength and flexibility, stress relief, and an opportunity to connect with nature.

You should be in reasonably good physical condition to ensure a safe and enjoyable scuba diving experience. Gone are the days when diving was limited to military trained professionals, and dive gear manufacturers have continued to find ways to make the experience easier than it used to be. 

However, diving still places demands on our bodies, including carrying heavy gear; controlling our breathing and having good gas exchange in the lungs; elevating our heart rate; using flexibility to control our positioning and propulsion through the water; and dealing with the effects of increased pressure on various parts of the body. Added to that, being able to respond effectively to situations that can arise is aided greatly by being in good physical condition.

Prior to any in-water training, each student is required to complete a medical questionnaire, and depending on the answers to that form they may need to be cleared by a physician before taking the class. You owe it to yourself and the others around you to be honest when completing the questionnaire.

Also, before completing the Open Water Diver Course your instructor will have you demonstrate basic water skills to be sure you're comfortable in the water, including:

• Swim 200 metres/yards (or 300 metres/yards in mask, fins and snorkel) without stopping. There is no time limit for this, and you may use any swimming strokes you want.
• Float and tread water for 10 minutes, again using any methods you want.

The maximum depth for recreational scuba diving is generally considered to be 130 feet (40 meters). However, this depth is only recommended for experienced divers who have been trained in deep diving techniques. The beginning Open Water Certification has a depth limit of 60 feet (18 meters).

If you're just starting out and wondering what dive equipment you should get, at a minimum you should plan on getting your own personal dive gear-mask, fins, snorkel, exposure protection (rash guard or wetsuit) and a Surface Marker Buoy (SMB or DSMB). 

There are two reasons that you should plan on getting these: safety and comfort. Having a mask that doesn't fit your individual face means that you'll spend much of your time underwater with a flooded mask. Fins that are too tight, loose, or stiff can lead to cramps and discomfort, which impacts your enjoyment of the dive and can get in the way of learning effectively. Protecting your skin from the sun, cooler water and the underwater environment are all good reasons for exposure protection, and a Surface Marker Buoy is important for making sure that you're visible to others while you're on the surface.

All of these items can be rented or provided for you by your instructor or dive shop, but having gear that fits you personally is a major benefit over rental gear.

On the other hand, it is best to wait until after you've had a chance to try out the other pieces of gear-regulator, BC, Dive Computer, etc.-in the water before deciding which models to purchase.

What is dive insurance?

Dive insurance is a specialized insurance policy that provides coverage for risks associated with scuba diving. This type of insurance typically covers medical expenses, hyperbaric chamber treatments, emergency evacuations, and other costs related to dive accidents or illnesses.

Why do I need dive insurance?

Scuba diving, while generally safe, can involve risks, including decompression sickness, barotrauma, or other diving-related injuries. Standard health or travel insurance policies may not cover these risks, making dive insurance essential for anyone engaging in diving activities. It ensures you have financial protection in the event of a diving accident.

What are the key benefits of dive insurance?

- Emergency Medical Coverage: Dive insurance covers medical treatments specific to diving accidents, such as decompression sickness (the bends) and air embolism, which are often not covered by standard health insurance.

- Hyperbaric Chamber Coverage: Treatment for conditions like decompression sickness often requires the use of a hyperbaric chamber, which can be very expensive. Dive insurance typically covers these costs.

- Emergency Evacuation: In the case of a severe diving accident, an emergency evacuation to a medical facility with diving expertise may be necessary. Dive insurance covers the cost of airlifts and other forms of emergency transport.

- Lost Diving Equipment Coverage: Some dive insurance policies cover the loss or damage of diving equipment, which can be costly to replace.

- Trip Cancellation and Interruption: If a dive trip is canceled or interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances, dive insurance may reimburse non-refundable expenses.

- Personal Liability Coverage: Dive insurance may offer coverage if a diver is found legally responsible for accidentally injuring another person or damaging their property while diving.

Does dive insurance cover non-diving related medical issues?

Typically, dive insurance is focused on diving-related incidents. However, some policies may offer additional coverage options that include non-diving medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or travel-related issues. It's important to check the specifics of your policy.

Are there different types of dive insurance policies?

Yes, dive insurance policies can vary widely. Some policies offer basic coverage focused solely on dive accidents, while others provide comprehensive coverage that includes travel insurance features. It's essential to select a policy that fits your specific needs and diving habits.

How much does dive insurance cost?

The cost of dive insurance can vary based on factors such as the level of coverage, the duration of the policy (single trip vs. annual coverage), and the divers’ experience and age. Generally, annual policies range from $30 to $150, while single-trip policies may cost less.

Will my regular health insurance cover diving accidents?

Most regular health insurance policies do not cover diving accidents, especially when they occur abroad. Dive insurance specifically addresses the unique risks and high costs associated with diving-related emergencies, which are often excluded from standard health insurance policies.

Can I get dive insurance if I’m a beginner diver?

Yes, dive insurance is available for divers of all experience levels, from beginners to advanced. In fact, it's especially recommended for beginners who may be more prone to making mistakes due to inexperience.

How do I choose the right dive insurance?

When choosing dive insurance, consider the following factors:

   - The type and extent of coverage offered.

   - Geographic areas covered.

   - Exclusions and limitations of the policy.

   - Reputation and reliability of the insurance provider.

   - Your diving frequency and locations (local vs. international).

Can I use dive insurance for other adventure sports?

Some dive insurance policies may offer coverage for other adventure sports, but this varies by provider and policy. If you engage in other high-risk activities, check with your insurance provider to see if additional coverage is needed.

Is dive insurance necessary if I only dive occasionally?

Even if you dive only occasionally, dive insurance is highly recommended. Accidents can happen at any time, regardless of experience or frequency. Having dive insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection during every dive.

Dive insurance is a valuable investment for anyone who participates in scuba diving. It ensures that you are protected against the financial burdens of potential diving accidents, making your diving experience safer and more enjoyable.