Complete Guide to Your First Dive

Taking your first dive is an exhilarating experience that opens up a whole new world beneath the waves. If you're feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness, you're not alone—every diver has been exactly where you are now. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your first dive safe, comfortable, and absolutely unforgettable.

What is a Discover Scuba Diving Experience?

A Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) program is designed specifically for beginners who want to try diving without committing to a full certification course. Under the direct supervision of a certified instructor, you'll learn basic skills in shallow water before exploring the underwater world.

No experience needed! If you can swim and are reasonably comfortable in water, you're ready to try diving.

What to Expect on Your First Dive

Before You Dive

Health check: You'll complete a medical questionnaire to ensure diving is safe for you. Conditions like asthma, heart problems, or ear issues may require doctor's clearance.

Safety briefing: Your instructor will explain basic diving principles, hand signals, and what to do in different situations. Don't hesitate to ask questions—there are no silly questions when it comes to your safety!

Pool or Shallow Water Session

Before heading to open water, you'll practice essential skills in a controlled environment:

• Breathing underwater through your regulator
• Clearing your mask if water gets in
• Equalizing your ears as you descend
• Basic communication using hand signals
• Controlling your buoyancy

This session typically lasts 30-45 minutes and helps you feel confident before the ocean dive.

Your First Ocean Dive

Once you're comfortable with the basics, it's time for the real adventure! Your instructor will stay right beside you as you:

• Descend slowly to a maximum depth of 12 meters (40 feet)
• Explore a beautiful coral reef or dive site
• Encounter colorful fish and marine life
• Practice the skills you learned earlier

The dive usually lasts 20-40 minutes, depending on how much air you use and your comfort level.

Essential Tips for First-Time Divers

1. Breathe slowly and deeply: The most important rule in diving! Slow, deep breaths help you relax, conserve air, and maintain good buoyancy.

2. Equalize early and often: As you descend, the pressure increases. Pinch your nose and gently blow to equalize your ears every meter or so. Never force it—if it hurts, ascend a bit and try again.

3. Stay close to your instructor: Your instructor is there to help and guide you. Stick within arm's reach, especially during your first dive.

4. Relax and enjoy: Tension uses more air and makes everything harder. Take a moment to look around and appreciate the incredible world you're exploring.

5. Communicate clearly: Use the hand signals you learned. The "OK" sign, thumbs up (let's go up), and thumbs down (let's go deeper) are your basic vocabulary underwater.

What to Bring

• Swimsuit and towel
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Change of dry clothes
• Water bottle (stay hydrated!)
• Sense of adventure

Don't worry about equipment—we provide everything you need including mask, fins, wetsuit, BCD, regulator, and tank.

Common Concerns Answered

"Will I be able to breathe underwater?"
Yes! It feels strange at first, but within minutes it becomes natural. The regulator delivers air on demand—just breathe normally.

"What if water gets in my mask?"
No problem! We'll teach you how to clear it easily. It's one of the first skills you'll practice.

"I'm worried about sharks."
Shark attacks on divers are extremely rare. Most reef sharks are shy and swim away when they see divers. Your instructor knows the local marine life and will keep you safe.

"What if I panic?"
Your instructor is trained to handle any situation. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, signal your instructor and you can surface safely. There's no pressure to continue if you're not ready.

After Your First Dive

Most people are hooked after their first dive! If you loved the experience, consider:

• Getting certified: An Open Water certification course allows you to dive independently up to 18 meters worldwide
• Trying more dives: Each dive site offers different experiences and marine life
• Exploring different dive types: Night dives, wreck dives, and drift dives offer unique adventures

Safety Reminders

• Never hold your breath underwater—always breathe continuously
• Ascend slowly (no faster than your smallest bubbles)
• Don't fly or go to high altitudes for 24 hours after diving
• Stay hydrated before and after diving
• Don't drink alcohol before diving

Ready to Take the Plunge?

Your first dive will be an experience you'll remember forever. The feeling of weightlessness, the vibrant colors of the reef, the curious fish swimming around you—it's truly magical. With proper preparation and a qualified instructor by your side, you're in for an adventure of a lifetime.

The underwater world is waiting. Are you ready to explore it?

Book your Discover Scuba Diving experience with us today and start your diving journey in the beautiful waters of the Philippines!