5 Things To Know Before Your First Scuba Dive

From what to eat beforehand to how to stay calm underwater, here are five essential things every first-time diver should know.

Are you gearing up for your first scuba dive? You're about to embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure! It's natural to feel a mix of excitement and nerves, but don’t worry—Ocean First has got you covered. Our expert dive instructors have compiled their top tips to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable first dive.

1. Eat a Balanced Meal Before Diving

What you eat before your dive can significantly impact your experience. Avoid greasy, heavy, or high-sugar foods that can cause an upset stomach on the boat or underwater. Instead, opt for a nutritious, well-balanced meal to maintain energy levels and prevent nausea.

Pro Tip: Stick to lean proteins, whole grains, and fresh fruits or vegetables before your dive.

2. Stay Hydrated (But Avoid Caffeine & Alcohol)

Proper hydration is key to a successful dive. Drinking plenty of water helps regulate your body temperature, promotes circulation, and reduces the risk of decompression sickness.

What to avoid?

Caffeinated drinks like coffee and soda
Alcohol, which can dehydrate you and impair judgment

Pro Tip: Start hydrating at least 24 hours before your dive for the best results.

3. Perform a Buoyancy Check Before Entering the Water

Mastering buoyancy control is one of the most important skills for new divers. A buoyancy check ensures you’re properly weighted and balanced in the water, making your dive more comfortable and energy-efficient.

How to Do a Buoyancy Check:

Enter the Water with all your gear on.
Deflate Your BCD (Buoyancy Control Device).
Take a Deep Breath and hold it.
Float at Eye Level—If you float too high, you need more weight; if you sink too fast, you need less.
Exhale Slowly—You should start to descend gently.

Why it matters: Proper buoyancy control reduces air consumption, prevents exhaustion, and protects marine life by keeping you from unintentionally touching the reef or seafloor.

4. It's Okay to Be Nervous!

Feeling nervous before your first dive is completely normal! Even experienced divers get a few jitters before hitting the water.

Your dive instructor is there to guide and support you—so don’t hesitate to ask questions! There’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to safety and comfort underwater.

Remember: If you’re not feeling ready, it’s okay to wait until you feel more confident. Diving should always be a fun and comfortable experience.

5. Get Ready for an Unforgettable Experience

Your first dive will open the door to an entirely new world beneath the surface! Many divers describe their first experience as life-changing, and once you take that first breath underwater, you might just be hooked.

Ocean First’s expert instructors and dive guides are here to help you every step of the way. Whether you're looking to get scuba certified or just want to try a Discover Scuba Diving session, we’ve got the perfect adventure for you.

Ready to Take the Plunge?

At Ocean First, we specialize in scuba training for all levels, from beginners to professional divers. If you're excited to explore the underwater world, contact us today to book your first dive!