If there is one state in India which embodies spontaneity, adventures and mad fun, it has to be Goa. Steep cliffs, crowded beaches, rocky trekking trails and the many cultural experiences that come together make this quaint little Portuguese town a sought after destination for travellers all over the world. Although Goa is famous for its sun, sand and sea, the state has so much more to offer especially for all the adrenaline junkies out there.
Given the vast stretch of the unexplored sea lying in front, it is only natural that scuba diving in Goa is one of the fast expanding adventure sports in today’s time. And if you are planning a trip, here is everything you need to know.
About scuba diving in Goa
The enchanting under water life has always amazed many of us, and if scuba diving is the next box to tick in your bucket list, Goa’s the place to be. The best part you ask? It’s completely possible to go for scuba diving in Goa for non-swimmers too. There are different categories of scuba diving and you can choose the one that fits your under water prowess accordingly.
If you are a non-swimmer, there are open water try-drives which last for 30-40 minutes and are perfect if you want to test the waters (quite literally). You will start your day with a theory session and a 45 minutes pool training session followed by one guided open water dive before you call it a day.
If you are a swimmer and want to become a scuba diver, you can choose from any one of the PADI Scuba Diver or PADI Open Water courses. Both courses will provide you with the PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) approved certificates which further let you dive at the depths of 40ft and 60ft respectively.
If you are a certified and experienced diver, than you may go for a fun dive where based on your experience, the dive master will take you through the most visually rewarding parts of the dive site. You will be seeing some jaw dropping topography, tricky cracks and will experience the emerald sea lined with colourful corals up close and personal.
What is the best time to go scuba diving in Goa?
The best time to go scuba diving in Goa is believed to be the summer months of March to June – the sea is calm, the water is comfortable and the visibility is the best around this time. However apart from monsoons, you may find scuba schools open for courses in others months as well.
How can I prepare for Scuba Diving in Goa?
Once you have decided which dive is the best for you, it’s time to prepare for the next step. Read the instructions carefully and be honest while filling up the scuba diving form – remember the better information you provide, the better your diving instructor can be prepared for any kind of situation under the water. Wear a comfortable and well-fitting swimsuit/bikini on the day of the dive. You can put on the scuba suit on top of this in the dive centre or in the boat if you are comfortable. Have a light meal prior to the dive and carry a water bottle, a handy towel and some light snacks just in case you need them. The rules remain the same for scuba diving in Goa for non-swimmers too.
Medical requirements for Scuba Diving in Goa
If you are suffering from asthma, cardiac or respiratory conditions, diabetes, severe back injury or have recently gone through a surgery, you will be required to get a medical from signed by your doctor approving your dive. Apart from this, if you are a pregnant woman or are trying to conceive, it is advised to avoid diving. Lastly if you are a beginner and have a runny nose or cold it is best to wait until you have gotten better before the dive.
COVID-19 guidelines
Before you travel to Goa, make sure you check the latest SOPs and rules published by the government, and ensure that you carry the respective documents with you, be it a negative RT-PCR test or a double vaccination certificate. Remember to pack ample sanitiser, an extra reusable mask in case one gets wet or soiled, and a few disposable masks to help you double up the protection when entering crowded areas.
Related reading