{"id":3317,"date":"2023-09-06T11:31:57","date_gmt":"2023-09-06T11:31:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/?p=3317"},"modified":"2023-10-06T09:05:33","modified_gmt":"2023-10-06T09:05:33","slug":"can-you-scuba-dive-alone","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/","title":{"rendered":"Can You Scuba Dive Alone?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>While scuba diving is typically done with a buddy, some experienced divers do go solo diving. Diving alone can be fun but also comes with risks.<\/p>\n<p>In this comprehensive guide we will cover everything you need to know about scuba diving alone and some tips to follow.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #5b5b5b;color:#5b5b5b\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #5b5b5b;color:#5b5b5b\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#Is_it_Possible_to_Go_Scuba_Diving_By_Yourself\" title=\"Is it Possible to Go Scuba Diving By Yourself?\">Is it Possible to Go Scuba Diving By Yourself?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#Is_Scuba_Diving_Solo_Legal\" title=\"Is Scuba Diving Solo Legal?\">Is Scuba Diving Solo Legal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#Is_it_Safe_to_Go_Scuba_Diving_Alone\" title=\"Is it Safe to Go Scuba Diving Alone?\">Is it Safe to Go Scuba Diving Alone?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#Can_You_Get_Scuba_Certified_To_Dive_Alone\" title=\"Can You Get Scuba Certified To Dive Alone?\">Can You Get Scuba Certified To Dive Alone?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#What_Skills_Experience_Are_Needed_to_Solo_Dive\" title=\"What Skills &amp; Experience Are Needed to Solo Dive?\">What Skills &amp; Experience Are Needed to Solo Dive?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#What_Equipment_is_Recommended_for_Solo_Diving\" title=\"What Equipment is Recommended for Solo Diving?\">What Equipment is Recommended for Solo Diving?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#What_Are_Some_Tips_and_Precautions_for_Diving_Alone\" title=\"What Are Some Tips and Precautions for Diving Alone?\">What Are Some Tips and Precautions for Diving Alone?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#FAQs\" title=\"FAQs \n\">FAQs \n<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#Is_solo_diving_considered_technical_diving\" title=\"Is solo diving considered technical diving?\">Is solo diving considered technical diving?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#Can_I_solo_dive_if_I_am_a_certified_rescue_diver\" title=\"Can I solo dive if I am a certified rescue diver?\">Can I solo dive if I am a certified rescue diver?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#Is_solo_cave_or_wreck_diving_allowed\" title=\"Is solo cave or wreck diving allowed?\">Is solo cave or wreck diving allowed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-scuba-dive-alone\/#Can_you_freedive_alone_safely\" title=\"Can you freedive alone safely?\">Can you freedive alone safely?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_it_Possible_to_Go_Scuba_Diving_By_Yourself\"><\/span><strong>Is it Possible to Go Scuba Diving By Yourself?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3326\" src=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/solo-scuba-diving.webp\" alt=\"scuba diving alone\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/solo-scuba-diving.webp 750w, https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/solo-scuba-diving-300x200.webp 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Scuba diving solo is possible for experienced divers with the right training, skills, equipment, and precautions in place. However, it is generally recommended to always dive with a buddy. It goes against standard <a href=\"https:\/\/familydoctor.org\/scuba-diving-safety\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">scuba diving safety protocols<\/a> and is considered high-risk.<\/p>\n<p>Some key factors to consider when solo scuba diving:<\/p>\n<div class=\"su-list\" style=\"margin-left:0px\">\n<ul>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> It is only recommended for very experienced divers with specialized diving certification. It is not for beginners.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> You take on all responsibility for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/what-should-divers-do-for-their-own-safety\/\">your own safety when diving<\/a> alone. There is no buddy to assist in the time of emergencies.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Most dive operators prohibit diving alone due to the risks. You may need to find specific diving charters.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Your diving limits should be conservative &#8211; stay well within training limits and comfort zone.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> The use of surface marker buoys and redundant air systems is mandatory for added safety.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> You must have mastered self-rescue techniques and emergency procedures.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Specialized equipment like full-face masks may help reduce risks when diving on your own.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Only dive at sites you&#8217;re very familiar with and with mild conditions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p><em>While it&#8217;s possible for experienced divers, it&#8217;s generally advised to avoid going solo when you can dive with a partner for added fun and safety. Careful consideration of the risks vs. rewards is needed when planning any dive.<\/em><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Scuba_Diving_Solo_Legal\"><\/span><strong>Is Scuba Diving Solo Legal?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There are no universal laws prohibiting solo recreational scuba diving. However, many dive operators, charters, clubs, and organizations don&#8217;t advice on going solo and impose buddy policies that require diving in pairs.<\/p>\n<p>This is because it goes against standard safe diving practices taught by major training agencies like PADI and SSI.<\/p>\n<p>Some key legal considerations:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>There are no federal laws in the USA or internationally that prohibit solo scuba diving.<\/li>\n<li>Liability waivers must often be signed by dive operators.<\/li>\n<li>Training agencies like PADI discourage solo diving but offer specialty courses on managing risks.<\/li>\n<li>Most dive insurance policies exclude cover for solo diving due to the high risks involved.<\/li>\n<li>Diving by yourself on shipwrecks, in overhead environments, or in marine reserves may be illegal.<\/li>\n<li>Local regulations may restrict or prohibit such dives at some sites, so check ahead.<\/li>\n<li>If diving in international waters, the laws of your dive boat&#8217;s country of origin generally apply.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>While it isn&#8217;t outright illegal in most cases, the associated risks mean operators and insurers often prohibit it. Carefully check all policies, waivers, and local rules before planning your dive.<\/em><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_it_Safe_to_Go_Scuba_Diving_Alone\"><\/span><strong>Is it Safe to Go Scuba Diving Alone?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Scuba diving alone introduces significant risks and is considered extremely unsafe by diving experts. It removes your buddy &#8211; your primary source of assistance if something goes wrong underwater.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Safety issues to consider when scuba diving alone:<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"su-list\" style=\"margin-left:0px\">\n<ul>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-long-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> No buddy to help in an emergency like a stuck regulator, low air situation, or unconsciousness. You&#8217;re completely self-reliant.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-long-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> No one to assist if you get entangled, trapped, lost, or experience equipment issues.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-long-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> No one knows your planned dive profile or where you are if you fail to surface.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-long-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> No one to share air with if your tank runs low or malfunctions.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-long-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Limited ability to assist your dive buddy if they have an emergency.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-long-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> No one to help remain oriented and monitor time\/depth\/air levels.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-long-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> No one to offer rescue breaths if you lose consciousness underwater.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-long-arrow-right\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> First aid response times are slower if injured.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p><em>While cautious planning, specialized equipment, and training can help reduce risks, any kind of scuba emergency is far more dangerous when being alone.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Most experts advise that the only really safe way to scuba dive is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/how-can-i-stay-with-my-buddy-on-a-scuba-dive\/\">with a competent buddy at your side<\/a>. Consider alternatives like snorkeling or freediving if you insist on not having a dive partner.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_You_Get_Scuba_Certified_To_Dive_Alone\"><\/span><strong>Can You Get Scuba Certified To Dive Alone?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Major recreational scuba training agencies like <strong>PADI <\/strong>and <strong>SSI <\/strong>do certify or endorse solo sport diving scuba courses. However, instead they call it <a href=\"https:\/\/www.padi.com\/courses\/self-reliant-diver\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">self reliant diving<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Key points on solo diving certifications:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>PADI, SSI, and NAUI train buddy diving procedures &#8211; not solo skills. Instead you can choose their self reliant training.<\/li>\n<li>TDI&#8217;s Solo Diver certification course teaches self-reliance skills.<\/li>\n<li>IANTD (International Association of Nitrox and Technical Divers) also offers a solo diving certification.<\/li>\n<li>Most agencies suggest at least 100 logged dives before attempting a specialty solo diver training.<\/li>\n<li>Courses cover hazard avoidance, emergency protocols, redundant gear requirements, and managing dive situations.<\/li>\n<li>Successful certification still does not guarantee dive operators will allow you to dive on your own.<\/li>\n<li>Annual <a href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/scuba-diving-refresher-tips\/\">refresher training may be required<\/a> to stay certified as a solo diver.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em>While courses exist, the certification is not a replacement for the vital safety benefits of the standard buddy system. Specialized training aims to reduce, not remove, the substantially elevated risks involved with scuba diving alone.<\/em><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Skills_Experience_Are_Needed_to_Solo_Dive\"><\/span><strong>What Skills &amp; Experience Are Needed to Solo Dive?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Solo diving requires very advanced skills, experience, judgment, and extensive specialized training.<\/p>\n<p>Agencies suggest prerequisites before considering attempting to dive alone:<\/p>\n<div class=\"su-list\" style=\"margin-left:0px\">\n<ul>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Certification as an autonomous scuba diver at a minimum. Technical diving credentials are preferred.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> 100+ logged dives with extensive experience in various conditions.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Comfort diving to depths of 100+ feet.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Excellent buoyancy and trim skills diving unencumbered.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Mastered efficient air consumption breathing techniques.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Expert at monitoring dive computers\/gauges and managing dive profiles.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Skilled with navigating by natural references without a guide.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Knowledge of appropriate diving equipment and configuration.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Regularly conduct safety drills for self-rescue techniques like ditch &amp; recovery.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Current first aid, oxygen provider, and CPR training credentials.<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check\" style=\"color:#3174b8\"><\/i> Experience managing minor equipment malfunctions like free flows.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p><em>Diving alone requires an extremely high degree of self-sufficiency and competence, managing dive situations entirely independently. Don&#8217;t attempt it until you&#8217;ve mastered all standard scuba skills and have hundreds of dives under your belt in a wide variety of conditions.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Even then, it remains a very high risk.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Equipment_is_Recommended_for_Solo_Diving\"><\/span><strong>What Equipment is Recommended for Solo Diving?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Specialized scuba gear and redundant backup systems help enhance safety when diving alone:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Redundant air sources<\/strong> &#8211; independent dual tanks and regulators are mandatory. Pony bottles or spare air systems provide backup air underwater if your primary tank fails.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Surface marker buoy (SMB)<\/strong> &#8211; deployable buoys with flags signal your position to the surface crew. Allows easy location if you&#8217;re in distress.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Full face mask<\/strong> &#8211; provides integrated 2nd stage regulator and mask in one. Eliminates a failure point between the mask and regulator.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wrist mount dive computer<\/strong> &#8211; easy to monitor your dive status without a buddy to cross-check.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Audible dive alerts<\/strong> &#8211; preset depth and time alerts help keep you oriented without a partner.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cutting device\/diver&#8217;s tool<\/strong> &#8211; allows self-extrication if trapped or tangled in gear.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Signal devices<\/strong> &#8211; carry backup lights, whistles, strobes, and surface flares to signal for help in case of emergencies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Having thoroughly practiced using redundant gear configurations during diving certification is key. Streamlining and familiarity with your diving equipment setup avoids trouble handling it independently in an emergency.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_Some_Tips_and_Precautions_for_Diving_Alone\"><\/span><strong>What Are Some Tips and Precautions for Diving Alone?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If contemplating a solo dive, experts recommend stringent precautions to reduce the considerable risks:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Only dive at sites you&#8217;re intimately familiar with in ideal conditions.<\/li>\n<li>Use the most conservative dive planning tables and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/what-is-no-decompression-limit\/\">stay well within no-decompression limits<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Have a strict turn-around time and begin ascent immediately if issues arise.<\/li>\n<li>Always over-prepare equipment by meticulously checking and streamlining it.<\/li>\n<li>Carry multiple surface signaling devices &#8211; don&#8217;t rely just on an SMB.<\/li>\n<li>Ensure someone ashore knows your exact dive plan and when to expect your return.<\/li>\n<li>Stage emergency oxygen and first aid kit on site for self-administration after diving.<\/li>\n<li>Dive only when you are in peak physical and mental condition. Avoid diving when tired or stressed.<\/li>\n<li>Abort the dive for any hint of problems &#8211; don&#8217;t push limits when there is nobody around.<\/li>\n<li>Consider whether it is truly necessary vs. rescheduling to dive with a competent partner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/when-to-abort-a-dive\/\">safest dives are ones you choose to abort<\/a> before entering the water. Careful assessment of both internal and external conditions is vital to reduce risks when scuba diving by yourself.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span>FAQs<strong><br \/>\n<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_solo_diving_considered_technical_diving\"><\/span><strong>Is solo diving considered technical diving?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Solo scuba diving falls under the umbrella of technical diving since it requires specialized training, equipment redundancies, and high experience levels beyond recreational diving limits.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_solo_dive_if_I_am_a_certified_rescue_diver\"><\/span><strong>Can I solo dive if I am a certified rescue diver?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The advanced skills taught in rescue diver courses help reduce risks but do not qualify you to dive alone. Specialty diving credentials are still required, along with extensive experience before attempting such a dive.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_solo_cave_or_wreck_diving_allowed\"><\/span><strong>Is solo cave or wreck diving allowed?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Solo diving in overhead environments like caves or inside wrecks is extremely hazardous and prohibited by most operators, even with proper diving credentials. The confined spaces make self-rescue nearly impossible if anything goes wrong.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_you_freedive_alone_safely\"><\/span><strong>Can you freedive alone safely?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Freediving solo has far fewer equipment and decompression risks than scuba diving alone. But you still lack a buddy for emergency assistance. Know your limits and carefully assess conditions before attempting any breath-hold dives without a partner.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>While an enticing prospect for some very experienced divers, scuba diving alone significantly increases risks in our already dangerous underwater sport.<\/p>\n<p>Specialized solo training, redundant gear, and conservative profiles can help reduce, but not remove, the inherent hazards of diving alone.<\/p>\n<p>Most experts agree the buddy system still provides the safest and most enjoyable way to scuba dive. Carefully consider your motivations and the risks versus rewards when considering doing a dive on your own.<\/p>\n<style>\r\n\r\n        .lwrp.link-whisper-related-posts{\r\n            \r\n            margin-top: 40px;\nmargin-bottom: 0px;\nmargin-left: 0px;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-title{\r\n            color: #07000f;\r\n            \r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-description{\r\n            \r\n            \r\n\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-container{\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-multi-container{\r\n            display: flex;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-double{\r\n            width: 48%;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-triple{\r\n            width: 32%;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-row-container{\r\n            display: flex;\r\n            justify-content: space-between;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-row-container .lwrp-list-item{\r\n            width: calc(20% - 20px);\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-item:not(.lwrp-no-posts-message-item){\r\n            \r\n            margin-top: 0px;\nmargin-right: 0px;\nmargin-bottom: 0px;\nmargin-left: 0px;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-item img{\r\n            max-width: 100%;\r\n            height: auto;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-item.lwrp-empty-list-item{\r\n            background: initial !important;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-item .lwrp-list-link .lwrp-list-link-title-text,\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-item .lwrp-list-no-posts-message{\r\n            \r\n                \r\n        }\r\n        @media screen and (max-width: 480px) {\r\n            .lwrp.link-whisper-related-posts{\r\n                \r\n                margin-bottom: 0px;\nmargin-left: 0px;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-title{\r\n                \r\n                \r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-description{\r\n                \r\n                \r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-multi-container{\r\n                flex-direction: column;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-multi-container ul.lwrp-list{\r\n                margin-top: 0px;\r\n                margin-bottom: 0px;\r\n                padding-top: 0px;\r\n                padding-bottom: 0px;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-double,\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-triple{\r\n                width: 100%;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-row-container{\r\n                justify-content: initial;\r\n                flex-direction: column;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-row-container .lwrp-list-item{\r\n                width: 100%;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-item:not(.lwrp-no-posts-message-item){\r\n                \r\n                margin-top: 0px;\nmargin-right: 0px;\nmargin-bottom: 0px;\nmargin-left: 0px;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-item .lwrp-list-link .lwrp-list-link-title-text,\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-item .lwrp-list-no-posts-message{\r\n                \r\n                    \r\n            }\r\n        }<\/style>\r\n<div id=\"link-whisper-related-posts-widget\" class=\"link-whisper-related-posts lwrp\">\r\n            <h4 class=\"lwrp-title\">You might also like:<\/h4>    \r\n        <div class=\"lwrp-list-container\">\r\n                                            <ul class=\"lwrp-list lwrp-list-single\">\r\n                    <li class=\"lwrp-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/how-to-navigate-with-a-dive-compass\/\" class=\"lwrp-list-link\"><span class=\"lwrp-list-link-title-text\">Mastering the Art of Navigation: How to Navigate with a Dive Compass<\/span><\/a><\/li><li class=\"lwrp-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.underwatermag.com\/can-you-go-to-altitude-after-diving\/\" class=\"lwrp-list-link\"><span class=\"lwrp-list-link-title-text\">Can You Go to Altitude after Diving? 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