Traveling toplace for scuba dive

Traveling

If you are lucky enough to live close to good underwater photography spots, than more power to you. But the majority of people have to travel long distances to practice their newfound hobby.

Where to go

There are literally thousands of places to scuba dive. Some close to home and some not so close. Do not rule out those freshwater lakes, streams or dams that are close to home. They can be easy to get to and provide good photo opportunities as well. Here are some other ideas.

Liveaboards

Scuba diving liveaboards are a great option to see a lot of places in a small amount of time. Liveaboards are boats that take scuba divers to various destinations usually staying one to two days at each destination. Sometimes the destination is out in the middle of an ocean with a reef below. While at the destination, you dive the reef anywhere from one to five times. The liveaboards have a crew that cooks and cleans for you and provides a fun atmosphere. There are expensive liveaboards that provide many amenities and fancy meals, and there are those liveaboards that are a small sailboat, with no freshwater to shower in for the more adventurous.

Other Destinations

Another option is to fly to one destination and dive the various reefs around the destination. You will need to find a dive agency at that destination that can supply you with equipment and preferably take you out on a boat, because most reef sites are not accessible from the shore. Find a dive shop that has a good reputation. Ask around your hotel and do some research on the internet about various companies.

A great spot to start (if you live in the United States) are places around the Caribbean or Florida. They are relatively cheep to get to, and have some of the best diving in the world.

While Traveling

Traveling both domestically and internationally can be a real hassle especially if you have a lot of equipment to lug around. Here are some tips to help stay safe and hopefully avoid any bad experiences.

Safety
If you go to any exotic destination that is new to you be sure do your research on it so that you have no big surprises when you get there. An excellent safety and travel website is the US Department of State’s travel page located at . It will inform you of any travel restrictions, safety issues and health issues that may arise at your destination.

Theft

If you are new to digital underwater photography, it may be tempting to flash your new hobby around by putting manufacturer’s stickers on your luggage or buying expensive scuba gear bags to carry your equipment. Don’t. It lets everybody know that you have very expensive things in that luggage. While it might start up a conversation or two, it will not be worth it if your luggage gets stolen or broken into. Try to pack in very inconspicuous bags. It is also helpful if you tie a bright colored rope or tape around your luggage so you can spot it easily on the luggage carousel. Also, instead of buying a very expensive hard-shelled carrying case for your photography equipment, experiment with an old Igloo cooler. They can be just as indestructible, and if you wrap your equipment up in clothes for cushion, they accomplish the exact same thing.