Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Insurance

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Insurance

Snorkeling and scuba diving are two of the most popular vacation activities for tourists, especially in tropical locations. Snorkelers and divers get the opportunity to experience life below the water's surface, seeing everything from sea turtles and vibrant coral to sharks and shipwrecks. As fascinating and thrilling as these activities can be, they can be risky. Be sure to get scuba and snorkeling insurance to ensure that you get quality medical care should you need it.It's estimated that one million people worldwide become scuba certified each year. As the popularity of these activities increases, though, so do accidents. From injuries and medical evacuation to unexpected cancellation of your dream dive trip, a comprehensive travel insurance plan with a hazardous sports rider can help ensure that you're covered for the unexpected.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Snorkeling & Scuba Diving?

Scuba diving insurance isn't something most people think about. Scuba diving isn't typically covered by most travel insurance. Usually, an optional add-on for hazardous sports will be required to be covered for diving. Additionally, there are limitations and restrictions for each plan, usually related to the depth of the dive and level of certified instructor supervision. Recreational snorkeling is covered by most travel insurance plans, but whether you're snorkeling or diving, be sure to read your policy details closely before grabbing your flippers and jumping in the water.

Tips for Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

While you're on your adventure, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Before going diving, you will need to either take a safety course with a tour company or get scuba certified through a licensed dive school. Snorkeling does not require certification, but it's smart to review the best safety practices before leaving land.
  • Unless you're a very experienced diver, always dive with licensed instructors. Your risk of injury is much lower when you're diving with tour companies and individuals who know the area, body of water and how to stay safe.
  • Pay attention to local warnings and don't dive or snorkel in areas that have been declared dangerous by local authorities. Also, always take note of riptides and current warnings.
  • Never go into the water alone. If you're injured or become overtired, it's a good idea to have someone with you so that they can contact emergency services if necessary.

Top snorkeling and scuba diving destinations:

Remember to pack these important items:

  • Sunscreen: Especially important for snorkelers who tend to stay near to the surface without a wetsuit, waterproof sunscreen and SPF lip balm are a must, even if it's cloudy. Many destinations require sunscreen to be safe, so try to find a brand that is approved for ocean swimming.
  • Water shoes or flippers: Protect your feet from hot sand and sharp rocks with a sturdy pair of water shoes. Use flippers, especially when diving, for extra swimming power.
  • Underwater camera: You'll want to remember the colorful fish and underwater creatures you see! The photos you take will be great for sharing with friends and family.

Find scuba insurance and snorkeling coverage before your next big underwater adventure.Connect with us at VisitorsCoverage for help choosing the best plan for your next trip.