What to Expect on Your First California Boat Dive

If you've only done shore dives so far, your first boat dive can feel like a big step—and an exciting one. Boat diving opens the door to deeper reefs, remote sites, better visibility, and less surface swimming. Off the coast of Southern California, it also means access to incredible dive spots like Catalina Island, Anacapa, Santa Barbara Island, and oil rig reefs, where the marine life is richer and the crowds are fewer.

But what actually happens on a boat dive? What should you pack? And how does it all work?

Here’s what you can expect.

The Morning of Your Dive

Boat dives usually start early. Plan to arrive at the dock 30–60 minutes before departure. You’ll sign waivers, load your gear onto the boat (often with the crew’s help), and set up your tank and BCD at your assigned station. It’s smart to bring a dry bag with essentials: certification card, sunscreen, towel, snacks, water, and seasickness meds (take them before the boat leaves).

Gear and Setup

You’ll typically bring the same gear you use for shore diving, but there are a few boat-specific tips:

• Use a mesh gear bag for easy rinsing and storing

• Secure everything tightly at your station to avoid rolling gear

• Label your fins and mask—gear can get mixed up when space is tight

• Bring an extra dry layer and a hat for sun protection between dives

Most importantly, you’ll need to build your own kit and be comfortable doing so. This is standard practice in California. From San Diego to Vancouver, divers are expected to be competent and self-sufficient—setting up, checking, and maintaining their gear without assistance. You’ll be paired with a certified buddy, but you are ultimately responsible for yourself.

? Need a refresher?
If it’s been more than two years since your last dive, or if you’ve never dived in California conditions before, we strongly recommend taking a refresher course before heading out on a boat. Our Scuba Tune-Up / Reactivate Course will help you rebuild confidence and sharpen your skills in the pool:
Sign up here »

Make sure to pick up a full tank and bring your weights, as most boats do not carry these. Boats will fill your tank between dives.

The Briefing

Before each dive, the divemaster or captain will give a site briefing: max depth, bottom composition, currents, and emergency procedures. Pay attention—they'll also explain the entry and exit techniques for that specific boat.

Note that these are not guided dives—you’ll be diving with a buddy, not following a divemaster underwater. If you don’t arrive with a buddy, the crew can help pair you up with another certified diver during the boat briefing. Be proactive and friendly—boat dives are a great way to meet new dive partners.

Dive Entry: Backroll or Giant Stride

SoCal dive boats commonly use a giant stride entry off the back deck. Listen to the crew and follow directions for spacing and timing. Once in the water, give the OK signal and move away from the entry point so the next diver can splash in.

Underwater Highlights

Sites like Casino Point, Farnsworth Bank, Oil Rigs, and Naples Reef are home to kelp forests, colorful anemones, nudibranchs, sheephead, lobsters, and even sea lions. Visibility can range from 20 to 80 feet depending on conditions.

Some dive sites have strong currents or deeper profiles, so advanced certification is recommended for certain locations.

Between Dives

Back on board, the crew may offer snacks, hot drinks, and water. Use your surface interval to warm up, hydrate, log your dive, and chat with other divers. Most charters include three dives, so plan accordingly.

Exiting the Water

After your dive, you'll usually remove your fins in the water, climb the ladder with your BCD and tank still on, and sit back at your station to swap tanks. Some boats have a rinse bin or freshwater hose for masks and cameras.

Final Tips

• Tip your crew—standard is $10–20 per diver

• Rinse and pack your gear properly

• Log your dives and review your air consumption and dive time for personal growth

• Be open to new dive buddies—many divers go solo and make friends on the boat

Your first boat dive in Southern California is likely to become one of your most memorable. With a little preparation and the right attitude, you'll gain access to some of the best dive sites the Pacific has to offer—no long swims or surf entries required.

If you're ready to book your first trip, the Eco Dive Center team can recommend beginner-friendly boat dives and help you get properly outfitted. See you on deck!