Life happens — sometimes we step away from diving for months or even years. Whether work, travel, or life’s curveballs got in the way, the good news is: the ocean will always welcome you back. Getting back underwater after a break can feel both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. Here are some tips to help ease the transition and make your return smooth, safe, and fun.
Start Slow & Refresh Your Basics
If it’s been more than a few months, your first step should be to brush up on the fundamentals. A refresher course or a pool session with an instructor is a great way to ease back in. Even experienced divers benefit from practising mask clearing, buoyancy control, and regulator recovery in a relaxed environment before hitting open water.
Check Your Gear (and Yourself)
Your kit has likely been sitting unused for a while. Give it a proper once-over:
- BCD & Regs: Inspect for wear, leaks, or stiff inflator buttons. Annual servicing is always a smart move before you get back in the water.
- Mask & Fins: Rubber and silicone can harden or crack if left for too long. Make sure everything still fits comfortably.
- Computer & Batteries: Double-check that your dive computer is updated and your torch, computer, and camera batteries are charged or replaced.
👉 If anything looks tired or outdated, it might be time to treat yourself to an upgrade — check out our online store or pop in to our showroom in Chiswick for a face-to-face advice.
And if your trusty kit just needs a little TLC, don’t forget we also offer Dive Equipment Servicing to get everything dive-ready again.
Ease Into Your First Dives
Pick easy conditions for your comeback dive — calm seas, good visibility, shallow depth. This isn’t the time to push your limits with currents or wreck penetrations. A gentle reef dive can do wonders to rebuild your comfort and confidence.
Buoyancy is Everything
After a break, buoyancy control can feel rusty. Take a few minutes at the start of your dive to fine-tune your weighting and slow your breathing. Hovering neutrally again will come back quicker than you think.
Dive With a Trusted Buddy
Now more than ever, buddy awareness is essential. Make sure you agree on signals, stick close, and do frequent air checks together. Diving with someone who knows you — and is patient — takes the pressure off and helps you relax back into the rhythm.
Listen to Your Body
Take it easy. If you’re feeling anxious or out of practice, let your dive operator know. Most divers have been in the same boat at some point and will be supportive. Don’t be afraid to sit out a dive if you’re not feeling ready — the ocean isn’t going anywhere.
Fall Back in Love With It
Your first dive back might feel clumsy, but don’t worry — muscle memory kicks in fast. Before you know it, you’ll be back to spotting critters, floating effortlessly, and wondering why you ever stopped.
Getting back into diving after a break should be exciting, not stressful. With a little preparation, some patience, and the right support, you’ll be back to feeling at home underwater in no time. And if you’re ever unsure whether your gear is ready to go — or you just fancy a chat about diving — pop into our Chiswick store. Our team will be more than happy to help you get dive-ready again.
