SCUBA diving holidays
Read this section to get an idea of scuba diving holiday possibilities and sample itineraries. Whether you are just embarking on the sport, or are already an experienced diver looking to further your adventures, there is a diving holiday for you. Everything from Learn to Dive packages in the Red Sea to exclusive liveaboard charters in the Galapagos Islands and the Maldives. All levels of divers, from absolute beginner to expert are catered for. There is a choice from single centre, multi centres or live-aboards, resorts with licensed dive schools (PADI or similar). Many companies specialise in tailor made holidays to your individual specifications the options are only limited by your imagination and of course your budget. The smaller dedicated dive resorts provide the opportunity not only to dive with company but to also be able to socialise with like-minded divers in the evening. Examples of such resorts can be found in Curacao, Saba, St. Eustatius, Sipadan, Manado, Phillipines, South Africa, Mozambique, Mafia Island, Fiji and the Sea of Cortez.
Dive packs usually include tanks and weights only. Hire of other equipment will be charged locally unless a full equipment pack was purchased at time of booking. Please note that diving computers are not usually available for hire. Wetsuits are recommended even in tropical waters, to reduce the waters cooling effect and protect the skin. Many centres only have a limited range of equipment; you are advised to take your own equipment where possible or ring ahead to check.
Diving Holiday Health Requirements
Diving is an exciting and demanding activity. When performed correctly, applying correct techniques, it is safe. When established safety procedures are not followed, however, there are dangers. To scuba dive safely, you must not be extremely overweight or unfit. The respiratory and circulatory system must be in good working order. A person with heart trouble, a current cold or congestion, epilepsy, asthma, is pregnant, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs should not dive. If taking medication, consult your doctor and the instructor before participating in any scuba diving. Improper use of scuba equipment can result in serious injury. It is recommended that you do not fly within 24 hours of your last dive. This also applies to going to an altitude of more than 300m after diving so be particularly careful when staying in a mountainous region.