Liveaboard Scuba Diving, What You Need to Know

Posted by Sam on October 22nd, 2016

There are many different ways to enjoy scuba diving—and if you cannot get enough of it, consider signing up for a liveaboard package. For avid divers, liveaboard scuba diving is an opportunity to enjoy a diving vacation aboard a specially designed vessel for the activity, while ensuring proximity and easier access to a wide range of popular diving sites. If you are interested in liveaboard scuba diving, here are some of the things that you should know about it: 

• Book liveaboard scuba diving packages with a reputable provider – Verify the credentials of the company and make sure that they are PADI-certified. Be sure to explore their liveaboard deals and the places where they can take you diving. Some of the best value for money liveaboard scuba diving providers are in Thailand. Reputable providers accept only a specific number of people per trip to ensure safety and comfort while aboard the boat. 

• Your skill level – Liveaboard scuba diving is usually recommended for experienced divers with 20 or more dives under the belt, but some trips can be tailored to suit a less experienced individual. Make sure the trip is administered by a responsible and reputable dive professional who can guide you. If you lack training, dive centers of liveaboard scuba diving packages should be able to help you become a more skillful diver. 

• Pack light – You will be living in a boat for a few or more days with other divers, so be sure to pack only a few essentials. Consider bringing along loose shirts, shorts or skirts that can dry fast, flip flops, at least two trunks or swimsuits, and a hoodie or fleece blanket to warm your body. You will need the space in your room for your diving gear. 

• Acclimatize – Consider arriving a few days early so you can get your body used to the changes in time zone, especially if you are from a western country and you are considering liveaboard scuba diving in Thailand. This could help you relax and avoid being stressed about delays, too. 

• Make sure your equipment is good to go – Test it and have it serviced by professionals before going on board, so you can be sure that everything is functioning properly and safely. 

About the author: 

This article is written by Richard Reardon, the Platinum PADI Course Director at All4Diving. All4Diving is a leading academy in diving industry in Thailand. It is one of the most awarded PADI centers in the world for its excellence in the domain of professional and recreational diving education.