You’re taking advantage of one of the many vacation bargains available and one add on option is a beginning scuba dive. You may or may not be a good swimmer and are wondering if scuba is for you, here are a few questions you should ask (and honestly answer) yourself before you book the dive.

What is swimming skill level is required?

If you’re going to be diving in a calm environment, a still lake or calm ocean cove, the dive may not require a lot of strength or stamina. Out in the open ocean diving from a boat you’ll have to know you’re capable of dealing with the currents and conditions and that you’re able to swim the distance you need to be picked up. Most dive operators pay close attention to skill level and make sure someone is keeping track of where all the divers are, but ultimately you are responsible for making sure you have the strength to get back to the boat or launch point on your own.

What gear will I have to provide?

Requirements vary from operator to operator, be sure to ask what rental equipment is available, and if you’re expected to bring anything. Snuba (combining snorkel and scuba) is popular as a onetime try it to see if you like it underwater exploration. Snuba is offered at some resorts and is a relatively safe option because it limits how deep you can go (with the length of the hose) and the air is surface supplied, so no cumbersome tanks to contend with, giving you a chance to experience diving in a limited and monitored manner.

If you’re going to be diving more than once, I recommend buying a good fitting mask. To check the fit, put the mask to your face (making sure all hair is out of the seal), breathe in through your nose, put your hand in front of the mask (in case you need to catch it) and bend forward. If it stays on your face and feels comfortable, it’s a good seal. Usually, there will be plenty of staff to assist you with the fit. The shape of your face and sight preferences will help to determine which mask style is best for you.

What rules do I need to remember?

Always breathe. It sounds rudimentary, but when faced with the unknown we often hold our breaths. Holding your breath is bad in scuba because it allows nitrogen build up, otherwise known as the bends to occur. It is highly unlikely this will happen to you, but be aware of your breathing and do all that you can to avoid the possibility.

Stick with your buddy. Two is one, one is none. If either diver has any sort of problem, the buddy is there to help. DO NOT attempt this as a solo sport especially as a beginner. Even when you’re an experienced diver, if you’re diving in a new area, you’re a beginner until you’re familiar with the “lay of the land”.

Plan your dive, dive your plan. You will probably be told where to go, how long to be there and when to come up, etc. The dive master should give you some signals to use in case of trouble or discomfort. Enjoy the dive, but do not deviate from the plan, most especially, do not go into any caves, wrecks or crevices, unless special precautions have been taken. Cave and wreck diving are specialties for very experienced divers requiring a special set of skills and equipment.

Bubbles always go up. It’s easy to get turned around in the unfamiliar landscape of the watery below. If you feel confused, stop for a moment and calm yourself, reorient and move on when you’re ready. If you cannot complete the dive, give your buddy the signal and return to the boat or assigned meeting place.

Relax and enjoy. Scuba is not a competitive sport, it’s sightseeing in a foreign environment. I have spent entire dives exploring the plants, bugs and wild life found on and around a few large rocks with crevices in them. Depending on where you are, there’s often a lot to see in a small area if you only take the time to look. As and added benefit, you use less air when your relaxed and you’ll have more time to explore and discover the beauty that lies beneath.

Tips to consider…

You’re most likely to enjoy scuba diving if you’re a good swimmer that is comfortable in the water. Tell the dive master if you’re uncomfortable with the equipment or don’t thoroughly understand the dive plan, once you’re underwater it’s too late to ask the dive master questions. If you’re really unsure or scared, sit it out on the boat or the dock.

Remember, you’re in the wild now, don’t pet anything or stick your fingers anywhere. The fish, eels or other life may see you as a threat and you’re enjoyment can be greatly diminished. Remember you’re just a visitor, keep your hands to yourself, look with your eyes. Take only pictures, leave only bubbles is the mantra to live by under water.

Most operators will want you to thoroughly enjoy your experience, don’t be afraid to speak up if something isn’t working or doesn’t feel right. Listen to the pre-dive instructions; they’ll warn you of any hazards that exist.

Most importantly, have fun! There are new things to see and the sensation of near weightlessness is amazingly freeing. Relax, look around and remember to breathe.

©2009 KC Leader Writing