Diving Tips

IN REALITY, any human contact with the microscopic colonies that make up a reef will do some damage, but you can minimize your impact quite significantly by not stepping on, or aiding yourself on, and by asking the boatman not to anchor in the middle of one.

You should be aware of your effect on the fragile reef build. Don't buy coral souvenirs, as tourist demand only inspire local entrepreneurs to dynamite reefs. Before you start planning your diving experience in Bali, check out the tips below:

When to Go Dive
The perfect time for diving here is on the dry season, which occurs from April to October, where warmest temperature invites more fish up and the view can be seen clearly. A pleasant warm climate averaging 27°C degrees all year round and good visibility in Bali's waters await every divers its impressive dive sites. The wet season from November to March can quite torrential.

Even waters close to the shore, there are excellent diving and snorkeling areas teeming with a wide range of tropical fish. A safari diving is a great way to see more of Bali, visit several sites and cut down on travel time. If this is your first visit to Bali, you can dive several locations and pick your favorites for your return visit.

Choosing a Dive Operator:

• Be sure to enquire about the reputation of the dive operators before signing up.
• Check their PADI or equivalent accreditation, aluminium scuba tanks, full set diving gear all to PADI, electric compressor, outrigger boats. Look over the equipment.
• If possible, get first-hand recommendations from other divers as well.
• Ask to meet your instructor or dive leader.
• Find out how many people there'll be in your group.

Getting a Best Deal
Diving is more expensive, frequently requiring a rent transport to the best dive locations. The price includes accommodation and, because you are staying near the dive sites, you can do early and late dives which means you can dive before and after the day trips when the dive sites are virtually empty of divers.

Most operators take divers to the dive site in outriggers (jukung) fitted with small boat. Passengers often get soaked, no matter how skilled the boatmen, and sometimes you have to clear the boat off a fringing reef. Price depends on the number of people in your group and where you start.

Dives are not much less than you'd pay in another country, they're quite reasonable considering the personalized nature of the tours and the amenities. Dive operators provide gear, tanks, wetsuits, weight-belt, refreshment, transport, experienced dive masters, excellent Balinese-style accommodations, and porters to and from the beach.

Safety Hints

• Bring your scuba certification whether PADI, BSAC, NAUI, SSI, or FAUI. Bali's dive operators will not take you out without an internationally recognized certificate. Certification card and logbook are required for certified divers.
• Although virtually every piece of equipment you could possibly need is available on Bali, hardcore divers might consider taking along their own masks and regulators. All dive equipment is supplied to you free of charge, and the diving operators offer a discount if you bring your own complete set of scuba gear.
• Before diving, your instructor will make an offering to the Gods of the Sea. Always go with a dive master or guide who knows the area, and who's made the dive before.
• Make sure their air quality. Usually they fill the cylinders at dive center, so you can dive with the confidence of knowing that the air your breathing is of the best quality, pumped by compressors that are well maintained and have the filters changed even before the recommended changing time.
• Make sure that all gear must be serviced every 6 months and replaced every 18 months with new equipment. All this is so you can feel comfortable and confident with the equipment, helping you to relax and enjoy the splendid corals and fish.
• Make sure your guide is paying attention to your safety. Don't let him take you somewhere beyond your skill level, and make sure you don't get bad air.
• Diving activity is fully insured with the PADI recognized dive store insurance company. Whether you book on a course or just a single dive, automatically become insured through them.
• Sun block, beach towels, swim wear, and a desire for adventure are all essential items for visitors to Bali.