Drift diving safety
Drift diving can be one of the most relaxing ways to see a reef, provided the group plans for the current rather than fighting it.
Drift diving requires specific briefing and equipment
Only drift dive with an operator and briefing suited to the conditions, and carry a surface marker buoy and whistle or other signalling device as directed. Never attempt to swim against a strong current.
Before entering
Confirm the entry and planned exit strategy with the crew, including how the boat will follow the group and what signal calls it back. Check that your buoy, reel and any other required signalling equipment are ready and understood.
Agree a simple plan with your buddy for staying together, since currents can separate divers quickly if attention lapses.
During the dive
Let the current carry you rather than swimming hard against it, and use it to conserve gas and enjoy a steady pace along the reef. Keep a reasonable distance from the bottom and other divers to avoid collisions in moving water.
Monitor your gas and time as closely as on any dive; a current does not reduce the importance of planning and does not excuse ignoring your computer.
Surfacing and recovery
Deploy your surface marker buoy as briefed, well before ending the dive, so the boat can track your position. Surface as a team where possible and signal the boat clearly, then wait calmly for pickup rather than swimming toward it unnecessarily.
Dive-day checklist
Before a drift dive
- Confirm entry, exit and boat-following procedure with the crew
- Carry a surface marker buoy and required signalling gear
- Agree a plan with your buddy for staying together
- Monitor gas and time throughout, current or not
- Deploy the marker buoy well before surfacing
General guidance only. Follow your training, the dive operator’s procedures, and each manufacturer’s current instructions.
Ask the dive guide
Personal guidance for your next dive
Describe a dive scenario or an equipment-care question. The guide answers in your language and points you to relevant journal articles.
General educational guidance only. It is not medical advice, emergency instruction or a replacement for training, certification, manufacturer instructions, your operator's briefing or your dive plan.