What Are the Types of Scuba Diving

Recreational Diving

Recreational diving is the most common type of scuba diving, designed for enjoyment rather than professional or scientific purposes. Divers typically stay within the limits of open water diving depth, which is generally up to 40 meters (130 feet). This category includes activities like:

Night Diving

Exploring underwater environments after sunset, where specialized equipment like dive lights reveals nocturnal marine life.

Wreck Diving

Investigating sunken ships, planes, or other man-made structures, offering a mix of history and adventure.

Drift Diving

Letting the current carry you along, providing a unique way to explore large areas with minimal effort.

Technical diving

The definition of technical diving can be fuzzy at times. There are multiple schools of thought, but they almost all agree that technical diving involves diving in an overhead environment, an environment in which the surface is not directly accessible. Or when mixtures other than air, or sometimes nitrox, are used.

Rebreather Diving

Rebreather diving is a subset of recreational diving that uses advanced equipment to recycle exhaled air, allowing for longer dives and reduced bubble production. This technology is ideal for photographing marine life, exploring fragile ecosystems without disturbing them, or diving for extended periods.

Scientific Diving

Scientific diving involves underwater research and data collection, often conducted by marine biologists, archaeologists, or geologists. These dives require specialized training and equipment to ensure safety while performing tasks such as sample collection, habitat surveys, and underwater photography.

Cave Diving and Cavern Diving

Cave diving involves exploring underwater caves beyond the reach of natural light, often requiring specialized gear and training. Cavern diving, a less advanced version, stays within the light zone and is more accessible to intermediate divers.

Deep Sea Diving

Deep sea diving pushes beyond recreational diving limits, often exceeding depths of 40 meters. This type of diving requires technical training and specialized equipment to handle increased pressure and decompression stops.

Rescue Diving

Rescue diving focuses on training divers to manage emergencies underwater and assist other divers in distress. This type of diving is a critical skill for advanced divers and diving professionals.

Ice Diving

Ice diving takes place beneath frozen surfaces, offering a unique and challenging experience. Divers must cut an entry hole in the ice and rely on safety lines to navigate the cold, dark waters.

Altitude Diving

Altitude diving occurs at locations above 300 meters (1,000 feet) sea level, such as mountain lakes. The reduced atmospheric pressure at these altitudes requires adjustments to dive planning and decompression.

River Diving

River scuba diving, or simply river diving, involves navigating freshwater rivers, often with strong currents. This type of diving is excellent for exploring unique ecosystems and submerged artifacts but requires careful planning and drift-diving techniques.

Diving is a very diverse sport, and it requires proper training and equipment to practice it safely. If you want to try any of the types of diving listed above, contact your local dive center.