Travel Tips

Travel Tip: Accessible Diving

Sure, scuba diving requires training and certification. But that doesn’t mean it’s off limits to people with disabilities. Here’s how you can get involved.

The Handicapped Scuba Association developed a certification program for divers with all kinds of disabilities. Level A means you can dive with one other person in the traditional buddy system–everyone from amputees to parapalegics have achieved this level.

There’s also a system where you can dive down with two buddies who can help operate your equipment or perform rescues if necessary. At Divi Flamingo Resort in Bonaire, not only do they have HSA-certified instructors, but also an accessible dive boat and wheelchair-accessible rooms.

On the Cayman Islands, Red Sail Cayman has certified instructors who can take you to the famous Stingray City. You can arrange these dives on your own, or go with a group. An organization called Eels on Wheels has a training program that includes a dive trip to Cayman Brac Beach Resort.

And if you want to learn how to dive with a disability, a non-profit called Diveheart works with kids, adults and veterans to get certified in your own backyard.

Click here for more information on accessible travel.

And, read more of Peter’s travel tips here.