Scuba Diving Trip: Setting Up The Perfect Vacation

With your new certification card tucked proudly in your wallet, you are anxious to plan your first exciting scuba diving vacation. Where do you begin? Maybe you will simply call the local travel agent and tell them to book it - or you could customize your very own adventure of a lifetime!

Pick a destination. This will have a lot to do with the budget you have allotted for the trip, as airfare is a lot more expensive the further you fly. Whether you will be driving to a nearby dive spot or flying half way around the world, it is important to research the destination. Great tips can often be gained from the dive school where you were certified. Instructors and clubs affiliated with the school or shop can provide a wealth of information, personal stories, and even photos from numerous dive destinations.

Once you know where you are going, decide whether you will bring your own equipment or rent gear on site. Unless you are driving to your location it is usually much easier to simply use rental gear. It may be wise to bring your own mask, as it is small, lightweight, and known to fit well; a leaky mask will ruin any dive! The other things you must take from home are your dive log and proof of certification.

Select a reputable scuba shop or tour boat to work with. Hopefully you have received a positive referral from one of your research sources on which company to use. Find out if there are deals for booking multiple boat dives and/or equipment rental packages. Get a list of dive sites and a rating of the difficulty level for each dive when planning your excursions.

Find out what lodging options fit your budget and style. Ask about scuba packages that may be available at a preferred rate. Find out if any units have kitchens so that you can save money by preparing a few meals on your own.

Since you won't spend all your time under water, consider other recreational amenities available such as water sports, tennis courts, golf courses, bike rentals and, of course, a nice beach. Find out what dining options are close to your choice of lodging and whether there are local grocery stores nearby. Decide if you want peace and quiet or exciting nightlife while considering the location of your hotel.

With the planning finished, now you can savor the anticipation of an exciting scuba diving holiday on the horizon. To build confidence, sign up for a refresher course at the dive school if it has been a long time since your last dive. Have a great trip!