Is scuba diving safe for beginners? It can be, when you dive with a reputable centre, follow your instructor and are honest about your health. Most first dives are in a pool or shallow, sheltered water with an instructor close by.
This guide gives general information only. It is not training. Always follow the instructions of the qualified dive centre and your instructor.
Who runs it
Look for instructors qualified through a recognised training organisation such as PADI or BSAC, and ask to see their qualifications. Reputable centres also carry insurance and are glad to explain how they run a session. Our how to check a provider is safe guide covers the questions to ask.
Health questions
You will be asked to fill in a medical questionnaire. Be honest. Conditions such as asthma, heart conditions, ear and sinus problems, epilepsy and diabetes can affect whether you can dive, and some mean you need a doctor’s note. A cold or blocked ears on the day can also stop you from diving.
Swimming ability
Most beginner experiences expect you to be comfortable in water, and some ask for a short swim test. If you are not a confident swimmer, say so when you book.
Groups and ratios
Ask how many people each instructor looks after. Beginners should be closely supervised, and a good centre keeps groups small. Ask how they check that nobody is left behind.
Cold water in the UK
UK water is cold, even in summer. Centres supply a wetsuit or drysuit and explain how to stay warm. Tell your instructor if you are cold, because cold makes people tire faster and concentrate less.
Flying after diving
Diving changes how your body handles pressure, so there is advice on how long to wait before flying or going high up. Ask your dive centre for their guidance and follow it. Do not plan a flight for the same day.
Equipment
The centre should supply a regulator, buoyancy jacket, tank, weights and a suit that fit. Ask who checks the equipment and when. If something feels loose or uncomfortable, say so before you get in.
Alcohol
Do not dive after drinking. See our alcohol and adventure days guide.
Questions to ask
- Which organisation are the instructors qualified through?
- What is the ratio of instructors to beginners?
- What are the medical and swimming requirements?
- What equipment is included, and who checks it?
- What happens if conditions are poor on the day?
Where to look
See the scuba diving page for dive centres across the UK, and our water activity safety guide for the wider picture.
In short:
- Choose a centre with qualified instructors and small groups
- Be honest on the medical form and about your swimming
- Follow the centre’s advice on cold water and flying