Diving is covered by many travel insurance policies, but with limits that depend on your qualification and the depth you dive to. Getting this wrong can leave you without cover when you need it most.
How insurers treat scuba diving
Some policies cover recreational diving to a set depth, while others exclude it or only cover it as an add-on. Cover often depends on your qualification and whether you dive with a qualified instructor or guide.
Depth limits and qualifications
Depth limits are usually tied to your certification level. Many policies cover qualified recreational divers to around 30 metres, with greater depths needing an advanced qualification or specialist cover. If you’re on an introductory “try dive”, cover may apply only under supervision and to a shallower depth. Check the wording for your own situation.
What diving cover may include
- Medical treatment for diving injuries
- Decompression illness treatment, including hyperbaric chamber costs
- Emergency evacuation and repatriation. See repatriation cover.
- Loss or damage to your own equipment, subject to limits
- Cancellation if you can’t dive due to illness or injury, in some policies
Typical exclusions
- Diving beyond the depth limit
- Diving without a qualification or against instructions
- Solo diving, in some policies
- Cave, wreck or technical diving
- Diving after drinking alcohol
- Undeclared medical conditions. See pre-existing conditions.
Flying after diving
Dive operators and diving organisations give guidance on waiting before flying after a dive. Following it matters for your safety, and an insurer may question a claim if you didn’t. Check current guidance from your operator.
Tips
- Carry proof of your qualification.
- Tell your insurer your highest qualification and planned depth when buying.
- Check the equipment limits if you take your own gear.
- Compare policies with dedicated dive cover or specialist dive insurance.
- Check whether your trip also includes other activities. See adventure sports travel insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Does travel insurance cover scuba diving?
Some policies do, usually to a set depth for qualified divers, while others need an add-on or exclude it.
What depth is usually covered?
Often around 30 metres for qualified recreational divers, but policies differ, so check the wording.
Does insurance pay for a hyperbaric chamber?
Dive cover often includes decompression illness treatment, but check the medical limits and conditions.
Can I dive on a trial dive?
Often with a qualified instructor and to a limited depth, if the policy allows. Check before you go.
Related travel insurance guides
- Adventure Sports Travel Insurance: Hiking, Climbing and Zip-Lining
- Cruise Travel Insurance: What Standard Policies Miss
- Travel Insurance for Camper Vans and Road Trips
- What Does Travel Insurance Cover? A Plain-English UK Guide
- How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost in the UK in 2026?
This article is general information, not financial or insurance advice. Always read the policy documents before you buy.
