Blog

What is accessible diving and why do we love it so much here at Swan Dive?

To put it simply, diving should be—and is—for everyone in our eyes. That’s why making it accessible is super important. Whether you’ve been swimming since birth or have never even seen the ocean before, Swan Dive is here to safely guide you through your unforgettable scuba journey.

What is accessible diving?

Accessible diving is all diving. Our Instructors are passionate and motivated to give you the best possible experience both Underwater and on the topside! While some individuals may need additional assistance to tailor the experience to their needs, that’s absolutely alright. We all need a hand sometimes!

DDI (Disability Diving International) is a non-profit organization that provides disabled Scuba programmes internationally. They are designed to work with other Scuba Agencies by adding an additional layer of safety and flexibility to existing diver training. This allows us to work with you and make modifications and adjustments to meet safety and training standards. 

Fun therapy!

Diving has so many benefits- that’s why over 6 million people across the globe are certified!

Something new- It goes without saying, we are not born a Fish! Exploring the vibrancy of a whole new world is both challenging and exciting for everyone!

Weightlessness- The freeing feeling of gliding through the Ocean is (apparently) like floating through Space!  For people with limited mobility, this feeling can offer a profound sense of freedom and ease. Let gravity take a back seat—just relax and enjoy.

Confidence- Learning how to dive and not only succeeding, but being a super diver by the end of your course is a huge mental boost for personal growth and motivator to keep exploring. 

Physical- It goes without saying, learning how to dive isn’t an easy task for most people, it comes with it’s challenges (like most things) but we are here to help guide and navigate you through it! Diving allows you to stretch, practice breathing exercises and ‘work out’ in an enjoyable, supportive and therapeutic environment. 

Community- You’re not the only one. On our last Scubility course, we had 2 men that had only one leg each. You can only imagine the jokes they made! Starting something new forces you to meet new, like-minded people. Here at Swan Dive we pride ourselves on having a real sense of community where the fun continues long after your course ends. 

How do we promote accessible diving here at Swan Dive? 

As I said before, we want to make Diving as accessible for everyone as we can here at Swan Dive. To make that happen, our passionate Instructors have undergone specific Scubability training via SDI to allow them to adapt and be flexible with the training that they are providing without overcrowding the Diver. Our Instructors are well equipped with personalized visual learning boards and other aids to support the teaching process. 

In addition, all of our Wing-style BCD’s (buoyancy control devices) are fully customizable to suit different body types—ensuring a proper fit for everyone.

Our custom-built vessel also has a diver lift.. what’s not to love?!

Everyone is different

When it comes to learning how to Dive, everyone is different. Some people struggle with mask skills, some people struggle with Regulator skills. Our job as instructors is to help find the smoothest and most supportive path for every student.

For divers with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities, each case is unique—and so is your training. We tailor every course to suit the needs of the individual, ensuring both safety and enjoyment.

If you don’t speak English- that’s also a no biggy. There is extensive online learning that you can do in your own language to ensure you feel confident and knowledgeable before hitting the water for practical sessions.

Before and After 

If something has happened in your life that’s changed your mobility or mindset, that doesn’t mean you have to stop doing what you love. Sometimes, you just need a gentle push to get started again. Or maybe you’re searching for a brand-new passion—if so, we’d love to help you begin your scuba journey.

We offer experiences for absolute beginners all the way through to advanced certifications. There really is something for everyone.

The mental side of diving

Getting into (or back into) something after a big change can be hard- we get it. But scuba diving has been shown to positively impact mental health. Studies have found that Scuba can help veterans with PTSD, individuals dealing with anxiety, and others facing mental health challenges. It provides a calming, empowering experience in a meditative environment. Even individuals with Autism have reported finding peace underwater, despite the sensory stimulation.

At Swan Dive, we’re here to help you begin—or continue—your scuba journey, no matter what challenges you face. We’ve built a supportive, vibrant community that would love to welcome you with open arms.

Let’s dive in—together.

Written by Meg