What to Bring for Your First Scuba Dive in Maui

You do not need to bring scuba equipment for your first beginner dive with Aloha Maui Diving. We provide the essential gear needed for the experience. However, bringing a few personal items will help make your dive more convenient and comfortable.

Arrive already wearing your swimsuit. You may wear a bikini, board shorts, swim trunks, rash guard, leggings or another comfortable outfit designed for the water. You will be provided with a wetsuit when needed, but wearing a swimsuit underneath it is important for comfort and sanitation.

Bring reef-safe sun protection and apply it before arriving whenever possible. If you are uncertain which products to use, contact Aloha Maui Diving for recommendations. We carry Stream2Sea reef-safer sunscreen in our shop.

Apply sunscreen primarily to the parts of your body that will remain exposed. Applying large amounts underneath a wetsuit may waste the product and stain the suit. Some divers also avoid applying sunscreen close to their eyes because it can run and cause irritation in the water.

Bring plenty of drinking water and any snacks you would like before or after the dive. Your instructor may carry small refreshments, but bringing a reusable water bottle helps reduce waste from disposable cups and containers. Staying properly hydrated can also help reduce your risk of cramping.

Eat a balanced breakfast before your scuba experience. Diving is a physical activity, and your body needs sufficient fuel. Avoid excessively greasy foods if they tend to upset your stomach or contribute to motion sickness.

Complete your required waivers and medical questionnaire as early as possible. Certain medical answers may require written clearance from a physician before you can participate. Inform Aloha Maui Diving about medical concerns ahead of time, and consult your physician if you have questions about whether you are medically fit to dive.

If you have dive insurance, bring your identification and insurance information and notify your instructor. If you are interested in obtaining dive insurance, contact Aloha Maui Diving for guidance. Having the relevant information available allows your instructor to record it before the experience begins.

You are welcome to bring personal equipment such as a mask, fins or wetsuit. Your instructor can inspect its fit and condition and advise whether you should use it or the equipment provided by Aloha Maui Diving. A familiar, properly fitting mask may be helpful, but your instructor should approve any personal equipment before the dive.

Do not bring an underwater camera for your beginner dive. Divers in training and their instructors are not permitted to operate cameras during the experience because everyone needs to remain focused on safety. If you would like underwater photographs or video, contact Aloha Maui Diving in advance to arrange for a separate dive professional to capture the experience.

Bring only essential valuables to the dive site. Personal belongings may need to remain in your vehicle or your instructor’s vehicle while everyone is underwater. Aloha Maui Diving is not responsible for lost personal possessions, so it is best to leave unnecessary valuables in a secure location.

Light stretching before the experience may also help prepare your body for carrying equipment and moving through the water. Most importantly, arrive ready to listen, learn and enjoy your first journey into Maui’s underwater world. Contact Aloha Maui Diving if you have questions about what to bring or how to prepare.