
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS SCUBA DIVING SAFE?
Scuba diving is a safe activity when conducted with the right training and safety protocols. We collaborate with trusted, PADI-certified dive centers and instructors who are committed to maintaining the highest safety standards throughout the entire diving process. From thorough equipment checks and detailed dive briefings to adhering to strict safety procedures, we ensure every step of your diving experience is both enjoyable and safe.
What level of scuba diving experience does one need to have to join our trips?
Our trips are designed to accommodate divers of all experience levels. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced diver, we offer courses and specialties that suit everyone. We provide introductory courses for those new to diving and also cater to certified divers, offering experiences and training for all levels of expertise.
Do I need to have my own scuba diving equipment?
No, you don't need to bring your own scuba diving equipment. We provide all the necessary gear, including wetsuits, masks, fins, regulators, and BCDs (buoyancy control devices). Equipment rentals may or may not be included in certain packages, so be sure to check the details. However, if you prefer to use your own gear, you're more than welcome to bring it along.
Are there any health requirements for scuba diving?
Scuba diving requires physical effort, so it's important to be in good health. Before participating in any diving activities, you'll need to complete a medical questionnaire. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns, we highly recommend consulting with your physician to ensure you're fit for diving. Your safety and well-being are our top priority.
Are there age restrictions for scuba diving?
The minimum age for scuba diving depends on the destination and the regulations of the diving certification agency. Generally, most agencies require participants to be at least 10 to 12 years old to qualify for the Junior Open Water Certification. Certified divers of all ages are welcome to join our trips, but parental consent is required for minors.
Can I dive if I don't know how to swim or am not comfortable swimming?
It is strongly recommended that you have basic swimming skills and feel comfortable in the water before attempting scuba diving. While you don’t need to be a professional swimmer, being at ease in the water will help ensure both your safety and enjoyment during the dive. If you're not confident in your swimming abilities, we offer guided snorkeling and other water activities as great alternatives to diving.
How do I book a scuba diving trip?
Booking a scuba diving trip is simple. Just visit the trip schedule section on our website or reach out to us via email to check availability, explore upcoming trips, and make your reservation. Our team will assist you throughout the booking process, provide payment details, and answer any questions you may have.
How can I dive if I wear glasses?
If you wear glasses, there are several options to help you see clearly while diving. One common solution is to wear contact lenses during the dive. Alternatively, you can opt for a prescription dive mask, which can be custom-made with corrective lenses to suit your vision needs. Our team is happy to assist you in choosing the best option for your comfort and clarity underwater.
Will I ever have to dive solo?
Scuba diving is inherently a group activity that follows the buddy system, ensuring safety and accountability. You will never dive alone; each dive is led by certified divemasters and/or instructors who will guide you throughout the experience. This system ensures that you're always supported and safe during your dive.
What is the difference between PADI and SSI?
PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) and SSI (Scuba Schools International) are both respected scuba diving certification agencies. While they have many similarities, there are a few key differences. PADI is the larger, more globally recognized agency, offering a wide variety of courses with a standardized curriculum. SSI, on the other hand, emphasizes personalized training and uses digital learning materials to enhance the learning experience. Both agencies offer reputable certifications that are recognized worldwide.
Will I receive my certification from Poseidon Expeditions?
Poseidon Expeditions is a travel curation company that collaborates with reputable PADI-certified dive centers. These dive centers and their teams are committed to maintaining the high standards set by PADI, which allows them to certify divers at various levels. This partnership ensures that all divers receive quality training and adhere to the best safety practices in the industry.
How deep can I go during a dive?
Depth limits are determined by an individual's certification level. Open Water Divers are permitted to dive to a maximum depth of 18 meters, while Advanced Open Water Divers can go as deep as 30 meters. It’s crucial for divers to respect these depth limits and follow their instructor or divemaster closely throughout the dive to ensure safety.
Can I scuba dive if I have an ongoing medical condition or have recently had surgery?
Since scuba diving is a physically demanding activity, the answer to this question depends on individual circumstances. We require all guests to inform us of any chronic medical conditions or previous surgeries in advance. Additionally, we strongly recommend consulting with a physician and obtaining a doctor’s note confirming that they are physically fit and cleared to dive. This ensures everyone’s safety and well-being during the dive.
Can I be insured when scuba diving?
We’ve partnered with DAN Europe to provide diving insurance coverage for your upcoming trip. As part of our safety requirements, all guests must register for insurance to be covered for any potential accidents during the dive. DAN is the industry-standard, non-profit provider known for going above and beyond to ensure its members are well-protected. The Bronze and Silver packages cover each member for up to one year (including future dive trips), with a depth limit of 40 meters or more. Additionally, DAN covers transport costs to medical treatment facilities, ensuring comprehensive support if needed.
Please use the following link to register for your insurance.
Are sharks a concern while scuba diving? 🦈
Sharks play a vital role in the marine ecosystem and encounters with them are often awe-inspiring and thrilling for divers. It's important to remember that most shark species are not aggressive towards humans. To ensure your safety and a positive diving experience, we follow strict safety protocols:
Professional Guides: Our experienced dive guides are highly trained and will conduct pre-dive briefings to familiarize you with the types of sharks in the area and the best practices for a safe encounter.
Dive Site Selection: We carefully choose dive sites that are known for their low likelihood of encountering aggressive shark species. Your safety is our top priority, and we aim to provide an enjoyable experience with minimal risks.
Group Diving: Diving in a group is a key safety measure. Sharks are more likely to approach individuals who are alone, so staying together reduces the risk of drawing unnecessary attention.
Respectful Behavior: By maintaining a calm demeanor, avoiding sudden movements, and following general diving etiquette, you can ensure that sharks and other marine life will not perceive you as a threat.
Keep in mind that most sharks you’ll encounter are harmless, and with the proper precautions, these encounters can become one of the most mesmerizing aspects of your dive. Our dive instructors are always available to answer any questions you may have about marine life and dive safety.
Are whales a concern while diving?
Whale encounters while freediving are generally not a concern and are typically a rare and awe-inspiring experience. Whales are magnificent, gentle creatures, and they do not pose a threat to freedivers. However, it's important to remember a few things to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the whales:
1. Whale Behavior:
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Most whales are peaceful and non-aggressive, and they usually avoid human interaction. If you do encounter a whale, they may simply swim by or continue on their way without taking much notice of you.
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Some species, like humpback whales, are known for being curious and may approach you, especially in areas where they are accustomed to human presence, but they are generally not a danger to divers.
2. Respectful Approach:
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Always respect the whales' space and avoid disturbing them. Never try to chase, touch, or get too close. Freedivers should maintain a safe distance to avoid startling the whale or disrupting its natural behavior.
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If a whale shows interest in you, it’s important to stay calm, avoid sudden movements, and let the animal approach you at its own pace. Most encounters are peaceful, but it's important to remain mindful of the whale's size and power.
3. Safety Protocols:
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Before entering the water, familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines for interacting with marine life in the area. Many locations have regulations in place to ensure that freedivers and whales can coexist safely.
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In case of an unexpected encounter, it's best to remain with your buddy and follow the instructions of your guide or instructor.
4. Guided Experiences:
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In areas where whale encounters are more common (like during whale watching or swimming with whales), it’s always advisable to join a guided tour with experienced marine professionals who understand whale behavior and the safety precautions required.
5. Whale Size and Power:
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While whales are generally harmless, their sheer size and power mean that you should be cautious. Even a gentle bump from a whale could be overwhelming, especially if you're nearby.
Conclusion:
Whale encounters while freediving can be magical and are usually not a cause for concern. As with any wildlife encounter, the key is to maintain respect and distance, ensuring the safety of both you and the animal. With the right mindset and adherence to guidelines, a freediving experience with whales can be one of the most unforgettable moments in your underwater adventures.
