Finding a dive buddy you actually like

Let’s set the scene: You just paid good money for a spot on a dive charter. You’re geared up, excited, and then the Divemaster pairs you with a random "Insta-Buddy." Ten minutes into the dive, they’ve kicked up a massive cloud of silt, swam 50 yards ahead of you, and somehow breathed through 2,000 PSI.

Yeah, not ideal.

In the scuba world, the golden rule is "never dive alone." But having a dive buddy isn't the same as having a good dive buddy. A solid underwater partner makes your dives safer, longer, and infinitely more fun. So, whether you just got your Open Water C-card or you're just tired of rolling the dice on the dive boat, here is your guide to finding an underwater partner you actually want to hang out with.

Why You Need a Dedicated Buddy (Besides It Being Required)

Sure, they can help you take a photo of a sea turtle, but a real dive buddy is so much more than a glorified selfie stick.

  • Your Redundant Life Support: This isn't just an insurance policy. If you blow an O-ring, get tangled in stray fishing line, or flat-out run out of gas, your buddy is the one handing you an alternate air source and getting you to the surface safely.
  • Four Eyes Are Better Than Two: You can't look everywhere at once. A good buddy will eagerly tap his tank to show you the camouflage octopus you were about to swim right past.
  • The Post-Dive Debrief: Half the fun of diving is sitting on the tailgate of your truck or at the resort bar afterward, logging the dive and having someone to corroborate your story that the shark you saw was definitely eight feet long (even if it was only four).

The Compatibility Checklist: What to Look For

Not every diver is a match. You wouldn't pair a marathon runner with a casual mall-walker, and you shouldn't pair a speed-swimmer with a macro-photographer. Look for these traits:

  • Similar Air Consumption & Pace: If you want to hover in one spot for ten minutes looking at a nudibranch, you need a buddy who won't get bored and swim off. Likewise, if you sip your air but your buddy hoovers their tank in 20 minutes, your dives are going to be frustratingly short.
  • Experience & Goals: If you're a new diver, pairing up with another newbie is a great way to learn together—but pairing up with a patient, experienced diver is a great way to be mentored. Just make sure your goals align (e.g., don't buddy up with a tech diver who wants to do a 90-minute deco dive if you're just trying to look at some shallow reef fish).
  • They Actually Care About Safety: If they try to skip the pre-dive safety check or they constantly jump in the water with their air turned off... run. Choose a buddy who takes protocol seriously.

Where to Find Them (Because Yelling on the Dock Doesn't Work...Usually)

Finding a solid dive buddy takes a little networking, but we promise it’s easier than dating.

Building the Bond: How Not to Hate Each Other

Once you find a solid prospect, you have to actually work as a team.

  • The Pre-Dive Chat: Before you even zip up your wetsuits, talk. What's the max depth? When do we turn around (e.g., at 1500 PSI)? Who is leading and who is following?
  • Do the Damn Buddy Check: BWRAF (or whatever acronym you prefer). Actually check their BCD, weights, releases, and air. Don't just glance at them and give a thumbs up.
  • Establish Signals: Standard hand signals are great, but make sure you both agree on what they mean. Establish a signal for "I'm cold," "Look at that," and "I want to turn around."

Finding the perfect dive buddy takes a little trial and error, but once you find that person who matches your pace, respects your safety limits, and doesn't kick up the bottom, never let them go.

Need to find your next dive partner? Stop by Dive Right In Scuba in Plainfield or Orland Park, check out our upcoming local events, and let's get you in the water.