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FAQ liveaboard trips

What does travelling with a liveaboard actually entail and what should you take into account as a travelling diver? What do you bring? and what do you leave behind?

What exactly is a liveaboard?

It’s a floating hotel where you stay for a week or ten days. This longer stay allows to sail further than the day boats, reach more remote locations, and you often see larger game or other unique creatures while diving.

Typically, there are 16-26 guests on board with whom you embark on your adventure, and everyone shares a cabin for the trip. This means that if you come with a friend, you’ll share a room, but if you come alone, you’ll share with someone else, with men sharing with men and women sharing with women.

Besides the guests, there’s also a large crew on board, including not only a captain and sailors, but also chefs, salon managers, and, of course, dive guides. This crew not only takes care of the sailing but also cooks delicious meals for us, which are served after each dive. Diving from a liveaboard is incredibly relaxing because your cabin is always close by, you get fresh food after every dive, and you only have to set up your dive gear once because they refill your tank each time.

They often have Zodiacs available that you can roll back from at almost any spot, or they’ll even use them to pick you up at the end of your dive.

The questions

Check out the following questions. If your question is not in this list, feel free to send us a message.

Before you Travel

Welcome aboard!

Life on board

Dive equipment

Diving Procedures

Other

Before you Travel

Diving holidays are fantastic but require a bit more preparation than a regular holiday. In addition to any vaccinations and necessary travel documents, there are a number of things you should take with you or consider.

What level of dive experience do I need to join a liveaboard?

Most liveaboard trips require a minimum of Advanced Open Water certification and 30 logged dives. Some destinations may require specialties like deep or drift diving. These guidelines help ensure both safety and enjoyment. If you’re newer to diving, consider building experience first — or speak to us about training options on board.

Can I travel alone on a liveaboard?

Yes — solo travelers are welcome! You’ll typically be paired with another solo guest to share a cabin, and a dive buddy will be assigned to you. It’s a great way to meet new people and join the community.

Do I need dive insurance?

Yes, a standard travel insurance rarely covers dive-related incidents. You’ll need specialised dive insurance that includes emergency medical coverage, evacuation, dive gear loss, and coverage for liveaboard travel. Check depth limits and policy fine print carefully. Besides a dive insurance a travel and cancellation insurance are highly recommended!

Do I need a medical check to go diving?

Some destinations or liveaboard operators require a recent medical certificate. If you’re over 50, take regular medication, or have a history of cardiovascular or respiratory issues, it’s highly recommended — and often mandatory — to get medical clearance before diving.

Should I service my dive gear before the trip?

Yes — but test it before you travel. Newly serviced regulators can sometimes leak if they haven’t been used post-servicing. A few practice dives at home can help avoid surprises at sea.

What medication should I bring?

We recommend bringing seasickness medication, painkillers, anti-diarrhea tablets, rehydration salts, allergy relief, and any prescriptions in original packaging. If you’re prone to motion sickness, start seasickness treatment 24 hours before your journey begins.

Can I bring my drone or large camera setup?

Check local regulations and airline rules. Drones are restricted or even banned in some countries. For large camera gear, many airlines allow a separate carry-on if it’s for photo equipment — but always double-check their policy.

What should go in hand luggage vs. checked baggage?

Carry-on: Regulator, dive computer, lithium batteries
Checked: Dive lights, tools, and anything sharp
Always consult your airline’s most recent baggage rules before flying.

Welcome aboard!

By now you have already had a long journey and you are finally brought to the boat, whoohoo the holiday can begin. But before you can relax and enjoy, a number of things still need to be arranged.

What happens when I arrive on the liveaboard?

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the friendly crew, who will help you with your luggage and show you around. After check-in, you’ll be assigned your cabin and given time to settle in. Shortly after everyone is on board, the crew will conduct a welcome briefing to introduce the staff, explain safety procedures, and walk you through how life on board works — from dive schedules to meal times. This is a great moment to ask questions, meet your fellow divers, and ease into the rhythm of liveaboard life.

What is the check-in process like?

The check-in is smooth and informal, but important. You’ll be asked to present your dive certification, logbook, passport, and dive insurance documentation. You’ll also be required to fill in a medical questionnaire and liability waiver. The crew will collect details about your rental equipment needs (if applicable) and double-check your gear setup. All this ensures you’re properly registered and safe to dive.

What is included in the welcome briefing?

The welcome briefing is your official introduction to the boat and the trip ahead. You’ll learn about:

Safety procedures (life jackets, muster points, emergency protocols)
Cabin housekeeping and rules
How meals, snacks, and drinks are served
Daily routines and dive schedules
Environmental guidelines (important for marine protection)
The crew and who to go to for what

Depending on the destination, you may also receive an initial dive site overview or hear about weather conditions that might affect the route.

What should I know about cabin life?

Cabins on liveaboards are compact and functional, designed for rest and privacy between dives. Each usually has air conditioning, private or shared ensuite bathrooms, storage space, and fresh linens. While not luxury hotel rooms, they are cozy, practical, and cleaned regularly by the crew. It’s advised to pack soft luggage (not hard suitcases) as storage space is limited.

Do I need to bring towels or bed linens?

No need! Most liveaboards provide fresh towels, bed linens, and often a separate towel for diving. Some boats also provide eco-friendly toiletries, but we recommend bringing your own, especially if you have sensitive skin or a preference for reef-safe products.

What are the crew like?

Liveaboard crews are known for being professional, attentive, and welcoming. From the captain and dive guides to the kitchen and housekeeping team, the staff are there to ensure you feel safe, comfortable, and relaxed. They’re also a great source of local knowledge — don’t hesitate to ask them about marine life, dive sites, or daily life on the boat.

Many liveaboards kick things off with a welcome dinner or snack, giving guests a chance to mingle. It’s the perfect way to meet your fellow divers and crew in a casual, friendly atmosphere before the first dives begin.

What’s the vibe like onboard?

Each liveaboard has its own personality, but generally, the vibe is laid-back, social, and dive-focused. You’ll find people gathering between dives to review photos, chat about marine life, or enjoy the sun. Some boats have books, games, or movies for downtime, while others offer photography stations or workshops. There’s a rhythm to life on a liveaboard that quickly feels natural — dive, eat, rest, repeat — with plenty of time for connection and relaxation.

Do I need to bring cash or tip the crew?

Tips are not included in the trip price but are customary and deeply appreciated. Most operators offer guidance on the suggested tipping range, usually based on the length of the trip and the service provided. Tipping is often organised at the end of the trip in cash (USD) and usually is about 10% of your trip price.

Life Onboard

You are starting to settle in your cabin onboard this flowing hotel. But what can you expect onboard?

What is a typical day like on a liveaboard?

Life onboard follows a peaceful and purposeful rhythm centered around diving, relaxing, and connecting with the ocean. A typical day includes up to four dives, interspersed with delicious meals, briefings, and downtime to nap, read, edit photos, or just take in the views. Here’s how a standard day might look:

Early wake-up
Light pre-dive snack + dive briefing
1st dive
Full breakfast
2nd dive
Rest + lunch
3rd dive
Afternoon snack
Optional 4th dive (sunset/night)
Dinner + social time or stargazing

This rhythm may vary slightly depending on destination, weather, or special dive sites.

Is there Wi-Fi or phone signal on board?

That depends on the boat and the region. Some liveaboards offer limited satellite Wi-Fi (often at an additional cost), while others encourage a true digital detox. In remote areas like the Galápagos or Bikini Atoll, signal may be unavailable for most or all of the trip. It’s best to assume limited access and inform loved ones that you’ll be offline — a rare but refreshing break!

What are the meals like?

One of the best-kept secrets of liveaboard diving is how good the food often is! Meals are freshly prepared by onboard chefs and served buffet-style or as plated dishes, depending on the boat. Expect a mix of local flavors and international cuisine, with plenty of variety and healthy options. Dietary preferences (vegetarian, gluten-free, allergies) can usually be accommodated with advance notice.
Between dives, there are also snacks, fresh fruit, coffee, tea, and water readily available.

Are drinks included?

Most liveaboards offer water, coffee (usually instant only), tea, and sometimes juice or soft drinks for free. Alcoholic beverages vary — some are included, others are charged separately. Drinking is only allowed after the last dive of the day, for safety reasons. Hydration is very important, so drink lots of water throughout the day!

What should I pack for life onboard?

Comfort is key! You’ll mostly be barefoot or in flip-flops, and between dives you’ll want light, quick-dry clothing like shorts, swimsuits, t-shirts, and a hoodie or long sleeves for cooler evenings. Essentials include:

Reef-safe sunscreen
A reusable water bottle
Dry bags or waterproof pouches
A book or e-reader
Chargers/power bank (some boats use 220V or 110V — check before)
Seasickness remedies (just in case)

How do laundry and showers work?

Cabins come with ensuite or shared bathrooms with hot showers, and bath towels are provided. Freshwater is limited on many boats, so short showers are encouraged. Some liveaboards offer laundry service, but it’s not standard — pack enough clothing to get through the week.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, liveaboards are a naturally social experience. Divers from all over the world come together to share stories, photos, and laughter over meals and on the sundeck. If you prefer downtime, that’s respected too — there’s always space to read, nap, or simply watch the waves. Many guests make lifelong dive buddies on board!

Can I bring alcohol or snacks?

In most cases, yes — within reason. If you have a favorite snack or beverage, bring it along, especially for remote trips where supplies are limited. Just check customs rules if flying internationally. On some boats, outside alcohol may not be allowed or could incur a corkage fee.

A tip for coffee lovers, usually there is instant coffee onboard for free and maybe an option to buy a real coffee. The experience is that the quality in general is quite poor or the price ridiculously high. So bring your own!

What about environmental practices?

Many liveaboards are taking steps toward sustainability, like using biodegradable cleaning products, minimizing plastic, and encouraging reef-safe sunscreen. Guests are asked to follow eco-guidelines like not touching marine life, avoiding single-use plastics, and respecting marine park rules. Bringing your own eco-friendly gear and toiletries helps, too!

What happens in bad weather?

Safety is always the top priority. If weather conditions make diving unsafe, the itinerary may be adjusted. Most boats have backup plans — alternative dive sites, land excursions, or onboard activities — but this depends on the location. The crew are trained to navigate these situations smoothly and keep you informed.

Dive Equipment

Do you dive in caves or wrecks, in strong currents, do you drift or hook in? Diving can be done in 101 ways and for each way different equipment is needed. Also every country has different customs and restrictions. So ask the in advance if you need special equipment, if it is for rent or for sale on board or if it is offered for free use.

Do I need to bring all my own dive gear?

You’re welcome to bring your full set of dive gear if you prefer using your own, but most liveaboards offer rental gear for an additional fee — including BCDs, regulators, wetsuits, dive computers, and even cameras on some boats. However, rentals should always be pre-booked to ensure availability and the correct sizes.

If you’re bringing your own gear, make sure it’s in good working condition.

Which dive equipment is essential to bring?

Even if you’re renting most of your kit, there are a few personal items that are highly recommended — and often not available to rent:

Mask and snorkel (for comfort and fit)
Fins and booties
Dive computer (mandatory on many boats)
Surface marker buoy (SMB) — many boats now require one
Reef hook or pointer stick (in areas with current)
Torch or dive light (for night dives or wrecks)
Spare mask strap, mouthpiece, o-rings (just in case)

Also, don’t forget a save-a-dive kit with a few small tools, zip ties, and silicone grease.

Can I rent a dive computer or torch?

Some liveaboards do offer dive computer and torch rentals, but not all. These are considered personal safety items, and it’s highly recommended to bring your own — or reserve them well in advance. All destinations require a dive computer for each diver.

What wetsuit should I bring?

This depends on the water temperature of your destination. Here’s a general guideline:

28–30°C (Maldives, Indonesia): 3mm shorty or full suit
25–27°C (Philippines, Thailand, Egypt): 3–5mm full suit
22–24°C (Galápagos, Palau): 5mm full suit + optional hooded vest
Below 22°C (Truk Lagoon, Bikini Atoll): 5–7mm full suit + hood or drysuit (if certified)

If you’re sensitive to cold, always err on the warmer side. It’s better to remove a layer than to shiver mid-dive!

Should I bring spare parts or tools?

Yes, a small save-a-dive kit can save the day. Include items like:

Mouthpiece + zip ties
O-rings
Mask strap / fin strap
Silicone grease
Defog solution
Allen keys (but pack these in checked luggage)
Batteries or chargers for torches and computers

The crew usually carries some spares and basic tools, but it’s always wise to be self-reliant — especially in remote locations.

Are tanks and weights included?

Yes — tanks and weights are always included in your trip price. Some destinations may offer different tank sizes (e.g., 12L/80cf or 15L/100cf aluminum or steel). Let the operator know if you prefer DIN or Yoke (INT) connections — adapters are often available but best to bring your own if in doubt.

What about Nitrox?

Many liveaboards offer enriched air Nitrox, which helps reduce fatigue and allows longer bottom times, especially when doing multiple dives per day. Nitrox is often available at an extra charge, and certification is required. If you’re not yet certified, some boats offer Nitrox courses onboard — a great option during your trip!

Can I bring a camera or GoPro?

Absolutely — underwater photography is a huge part of the liveaboard experience! Most boats have dedicated camera rinse tanks, charging stations, and camera tables. Just make sure:

Your housing is watertight (check all seals!)
You bring spare batteries, memory cards, and chargers
You pack tools or accessories in checked luggage (not carry-on)

If you’re bringing a drone, check local laws — some countries prohibit drones or require permits.

What about dive insurance?

A good dive insurance is essential, and mandatory. This should cover:

Dive-related medical costs
Evacuation (including hyperbaric chamber)
Equipment loss/damage
Trip delays or cancellations

Popular providers include DAN (Divers Alert Network), DiveAssure, or other travel insurers with specialized dive coverage. Always bring proof of insurance with you onboard.

Please note that also a good travel insurance is highly recommended.

Diving Procedures

Each country and most Liveaboards have their own procedures. They can use zodiacs or Dhoni’s to support the diving and what about the guides?

How many dives will we do each day?

Most liveaboards offer 3 to 4 dives per day, depending on the destination and conditions. This usually includes:

2 morning dives
1 afternoon dive
Optional night dives

Some remote expeditions or deeper wreck trips might offer fewer but longer or more technical dives. On the first and last days, there may be only 1–2 dives due to flight timing and safety protocols.

Will we always dive from the main boat?

Not always. On many liveaboards, you’ll dive from a smaller support vessel — often called a tender or zodiac (RIB). These are launched from the main boat and take you directly to the dive site. They’re agile, safe, and make entries and exits efficient, especially when diving sites aren’t accessible from the main boat.

Is there a dive briefing before each dive?

Yes — always! Before each dive, your dive guide or cruise director will give a detailed briefing covering:

Dive site overview
Entry/exit procedures
Maximum depth and dive time
Expected marine life
Current conditions
Safety procedures
Navigation and buddy rules

Listening carefully is key to having a smooth and safe dive.

Are dives guided or can I dive independently?

Most liveaboards offer guided dives, especially in challenging or protected environments like Galápagos or Egypt. Depending on your experience and the boat’s policy, you may be allowed to dive with your buddy independently after the guide has briefed you. However, many guests prefer diving with the guide for the best experience and local knowledge.

Always check the specific policy for your destination — some marine parks require guided dives.

What are the safety rules and max depth?

All dives follow standard recreational diving limits, unless it’s a technical trip. Typical limits are:

Max depth: 30 meters (on some locations this is 40 meters)
No-decompression diving only
Safety stop: 3 minutes at 5 meters on every dive
Return to boat with at least 50 bar / 700 psi
Dive computers are mandatory on many boats

How are buddy teams organised?

If you’re travelling solo, you’ll be paired with another diver of similar experience. If you come with a friend or partner, you can buddy up with them.

Good buddy communication and planning are emphasized, and you’ll be expected to check each other’s gear and stay together during dives.

Do I need to carry a surface marker buoy (SMB)?

Yes — an SMB is mandatory in many locations and always strongly recommended. Drift dives are common, and an SMB helps the crew spot you during your ascent. Some boats will provide one, but we recommend bringing your own and knowing how to use it.

What happens in strong current conditions?

Some sites (like in Indonesia, Maldives, or Galápagos) have drift dives — where the group descends together and lets the current carry them along the reef. These can be incredibly exciting but also challenging. Your guides will give clear instructions and may carry a surface buoy or use GPS to coordinate pickups.

It’s important to listen carefully, stay close to your group, and signal early if you’re not comfortable.

Is night diving always offered?

Most boats offer at least one or two night dives per trip, depending on conditions and park regulations. Night dives are magical — but optional. If you’re interested, make sure to bring a good dive torch and a backup light.

Can I skip a dive if I’m tired or not feeling well?

Absolutely. It’s your holiday, and diving is always optional. If you’re tired, cold, seasick, or just want to relax, you’re free to sit out any dive. Just inform the crew ahead of time so they can plan logistics and buddy assignments accordingly.

Will the dives be logged?

Each dive operator should be logging the details of the dive, meaning that the dive crew will keep track of your depth, time and air out. This log usually gets signed by each diver and helps the dive operator to get an insight in the divers they have onboard for the week as well as in case of mishaps is required to show to local authorities.

Checklist

Check in advance

Diving insurance
Medical examination
Testing your own regulator set
Special diving equipment required
Which suit is best to use?
Special requests regarding food
Limit your phone by turning off roaming and streaming.

Medication

Re-hydration salt
Diarrhea inhibitors
Antibiotics
Seasickness patches or tablets
Painkillers

In hand luggage

Passport, Logbook, Certification, Medical Examination & Diving Insurance
Camera
Computer & dive computer
Money and means of payment
Rehydration salts
Earplugs

In hold luggage

Diving gear, including SMB, reef hook and/or nudi pointer
Lamps, battery loose
Tools
Medication including pamphlets and/or doctor’s note
Sunscreen factor 50
Some warm clothes
Cover bag
Water bottle

Time to enjoy

All in all, a lot happens on a liveaboard, you have to take many things into account, know what you are doing and you will have the most fantastic diving adventures. It is an absolute must because you can go to places where you would otherwise not be able to dive.

Some people like life on the boat, the comfort, the coziness and being outside. Others simply go along because they really want to see a certain dive site. Whatever it is, choose your liveaboard consciously. They seem a bit pricey, but if you book a hotel on land with individual dives, you will often end up paying a lot more. In any case, it is a great way to put your diving into practice, get to know other divers and go on special adventures. And with all that, the guides and crew are ready to make your trip as pleasant as possible.

Don’t hesitate, they have seen or experienced it all before, just ask them the question and they will be happy to help you.

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