If you’re planning the dive holiday of a lifetime, there can be a lot of pressure to get things absolutely right. This weight of expectation can lead to endless hours spent scouring dive forums and reading countless resort reviews to make sure you get maximum bang for your buck. But it doesn’t have to be stressful.
There are a few key considerations to keep in mind when planning a dive holiday. Make sure you have incorporated the following into your plans and you’ll stand a good chance of enjoying a dive holiday you will never forget:
What you want to see on your dive
All divers have a list of their most desirable underwater spectacles. For some it’s the elusive whale shark or majestic manta ray, for others its wreck sites or coral reefs. Think about the reasons you got into diving – what was it you really wanted to achieve under the water? Once you have narrowed this down you can then choose your destination accordingly. For reef diving trips, think tropical and head south to destinations like Mauritius and the Maldives. For truly unique marine life and exceptional experiences on and off the water, think Oman and Gozo.
Accommodation options
Do you want to stay in a resort with top amenities, including spas, fine dining options and many beach activities? Or would you prefer a purer diving experience where you wake up every morning to a new remote dive site? This decision will determine whether you want a resort-based or liveaboard scuba diving holiday. Each has their own distinct advantages. Dive liveaboards take you to more remote dive locations and pair you with like-minded people. Resort-based holidays are better suited to families and couples looking to combine diving with a more all-round holiday experience.
Budget
Diving is a relatively expensive holiday option so wherever you go you’ll need a reasonable budget. That said, there are still plenty of ways you can economise. Dive closer to home in Gozo or Cape Verde and a choice of budget air travel helps to keep costs down. Travel outside of peak season, even in major holiday destinations like the Maldives, and you can find great deals. You can also choose between self-catering and all-inclusive resorts, just be sure to work out the costs such as included drinks, meals and activities and what appears cheap on the surface might not be the best option.
Season
Peak and off-peak holiday periods are not your only time considerations. Diving conditions change with the seasons, with visibility and water temperatures varying in destinations around the world. Places like Mozambique have a wet and windy season, which can affect visibility. The Maldives may have great conditions all year round but the season does impact on what you’re likely to see in the water. Many marine creatures are migratory, so it’s worth doing a little research to find out what you are likely to spot at different times of year.
Of course, it always pays to get expert advice. If you’re unsure about any of the above, don’t spend hours online trying to piece together the right information. Get in touch with a member of our team to find out everything you need to know.
