Scuba Gear

Scuba Diving FAQs

What is scuba diving and how does it work?

SCUBA is actually an acronym for Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. Scuba diving is essentially being able to breathe underwater through personal equipment. This is done with basic scuba gear like a tank, BCD, and a regulator. 

Do you need certification to scuba dive?

Legally speaking, no, a scuba certification is not required to go scuba diving. Although for proper service, a scuba certification is required for most dive charters and dive shops. Acquiring your scuba certification is important because it provides you with the basic training and knowledge to avoid panic and discomfort underwater. 

How long does a scuba diving certification take?

Our Divers Direct instructors can usually get you open water certified in as little as one weekend. Once you complete your e-learning portion at your own pace, you will put your studies into practice with your instructor. Throughout 3 days, you will physically learn the basics of scuba diving in open water dives. Call us today if you are interested in learning to dive. 

Is scuba diving safe for beginners?

Scuba diving is a safe recreational sport. Like any hobby, it carries some level of risk, but these risks are minimized with proper training, guidance, and safety measures. As long as beginners remember their training, remain calm, and dive within their limits, scuba diving can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

What is the best age to start scuba diving?

The minimum age to become a certified scuba diver is 10 years old. The earlier someone is exposed to the beauty of the underwater world, the longer they can appreciate it. You don’t have to be young to learn to scuba dive; whether you’re 10 or 60, it is never too late to become scuba certified and witness the wonders of breathing underwater. 

How deep can you go while scuba diving?

The entry-level scuba certification, also known as Open Water, recommends a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet). The next certification level, called Advanced Open Water, extends that depth limit to 30 meters (100 feet). 

What are the best scuba diving spots in Florida?

There are many popular scuba diving spots in Florida, from the freshwater springs in Central Florida to the colorful reefs in the Keys. Florida is filled with amazing dive sites. Check out our blog Top 10 Snorkeling and Scuba Adventures in Florida to learn more.

What’s the difference between snorkeling and scuba diving?

Snorkeling requires a mask, a snorkel, and (for effective exploration) fins. Snorkelers tend to stay on the water’s surface, while scuba divers tend to explore underwater. For example, if we are talking about the ocean, scuba divers can explore between 1-18 meters underwater.  

What gear do I need for scuba diving?

It may seem overwhelming to those unfamiliar with scuba gear, but the basic gear needed to scuba dive is a mask, fins, BCD, regulator, octo, tank, weights, and gauge. All this equipment is necessary for a scuba diver to have. 

Should I buy or rent scuba gear?

It depends on how often you plan on diving. If you plan on diving more than 3 times a year, it would be smart to invest in your own gear for comfort and safety. For more information, read our Affordable Dive Travel blog.