With the holiday season approaching, many divers are looking to refurbish their scuba gear or to buy the ultimate piece of gear presented in the 2023 DEMA show. Whether you are a scuba diver or have a scuba diver friend in your life, you will certainly find the best gifts in my ultimate list.
No matter if you are looking for a self-gift or for a present for someone close to you, my ultimate list covers from big to small budget gift ideas, from smart travel essentials, and birthday presents to under-the-tree gifts.
How did I select these great gift ideas for scuba divers?
Being an avid scuba diver and diving professional, I have selected the best gift ideas based on actual needs a scuba diver has. This is why you will find the gift ideas split either by type of diving (e.g. shore versus dive boat or liveaboard) or by occasion (e.g. scuba travel). These are all pieces of gear that I either own and have personally tested or that are part of my wish list.
The first section of this post focuses on dive gear and accessories that every diver should have. Although there are high chances that your diver friends already have some of these accessories, they will definitely not be disappointed in receiving a double as a gift. If you are unsure about which gift is the best for your ocean lover friend, feel free to contact me for some personalized advice.
Top 50 Gift Ideas For Scuba Divers
Let’s now dive into the best scuba gift ideas you can buy for your dive buddy.
Dive Gear and Accessories
1. Neoprene Mask Strap
Not only does a neoprene mask strap add a splash of style to our dive kit, but it also offers tons of practical benefits. Picture this: no more tangled hair or uncomfortable pulling! The neoprene material is super comfy and prevents hair from getting caught in the strap. Plus, it’s adjustable and fits most mask types, so it’s a perfect fit for any diver. It’s easy to install too, no need to hassle around. So, whether you are looking for a present for a seasoned diver or for someone just starting their underwater adventures, this thoughtful and practical gift will surely make their dives more enjoyable. They’ll thank you every time they put on their dive mask and plunge into the deep blue! This neoprene mask strap is particularly recommended for scuba divers with long hair, but it’s an equally useful gift for any scuba diver.
2. Mask De-Fog
If you’re searching for the ultimate gift idea for your scuba-loving buddy, look no further than a top-notch mask de-fog spray! Trust me, when you’re underwater, there’s nothing worse than a foggy mask obstructing your view and ruining the whole experience. This nifty little spray works like magic, keeping the mask crystal clear and preventing those annoying fog-ups. It’s a game-changer, especially for those epic dives in exotic locations where you want every moment to be picture-perfect. Your friend will thank you every time they dive into the deep blue and can actually see all the breathtaking marine life without the hassle. Bear in mind that mask de-fog spray can be quite expensive in exotic diving locations. It’s therefore the right gift for a scuba diver that is about to go on a dive trip.
3. Diver Tool & Repair Kit
A diver’s tool and repair kit is a game changer for any scuba diver. Yet it’s amazing how many divers don’t have one. When you’re diving, unexpected gear issues can pop up, and having this handy kit can be a lifesaver. It’s like a Swiss Army knife for divers, with all the essential tools to fix minor problems on the go. From small adjustments to O-rings to fixing a loose strap, it’s got you covered. Plus, it shows you care about their safety and comfort while exploring the depths. So, if you want to make your scuba-loving friend smile, go for the diver’s tool and repair kit – they’ll be thanking you on their next epic dive!
4. DSMB
A Delayed Surface Marker Buoy, or DSMB, is the ultimate gift for any diver. It’s like a safety marker that can be inflated underwater to signal their location to the surface support team. Not only does it enhance their safety during ascents, but it also adds a sense of style and practicality to their gear. Trust me, they’ll be thrilled to have this nifty gadget, and it shows you really care about their diving adventures! If you would like to learn more on how to buy the right delayed surface marker buoy, check out my dedicated post. Note that a DSMB, besides being an essential piece of scuba gear, is also part of all those useful gifts for divers that are about to go on a liveaboard (more on this down below).
5. Dry Bag
A dry bag! Seriously, it’s like a lifesaver for divers. Picture this: you’re out on a boat, and your friend wants to keep their precious stuff safe and dry while diving. That’s where the dry bag comes in! It’s waterproof and keeps their wallet, cell phone, and other essentials secure during the entire adventure. No more worries about water damage or losing valuables. It’s practical, thoughtful, and they’ll be thanking you on every dive! A waterproof dry bag may come in different sizes, I recommend the 20L size as it is optimal to carry a diver’s essentials.
6. Mesh Kit Bag
If you’re looking for the ultimate gift idea for your scuba-loving buddy, let me tell you about something they’d totally dig! A mesh kit bag is hands down the perfect choice. Why, you ask? Well, picture this: after an amazing dive, they can easily rinse off their gear right in the bag, and the mesh material allows it to dry super quick! Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to carry, making their diving adventures even more hassle-free. Trust me, they’ll be thanking you big time for this thoughtful and practical gift!
7. Dive Computer
If you’re thinking of getting a gift for your scuba-loving buddy, let me tell you, a dive computer is hands-down the ultimate choice! This little gadget is a diver’s best friend underwater. It tracks all the crucial info, like depth, time, and gas consumption levels, making their dives safer and more enjoyable. No more tedious calculations or relying on dive tables. Plus, they can review their dive data later and relive those awe-inspiring moments. Trust me, they’ll be grateful for this game-changer gift!
If you are planning on buying a dive computer as a gift I suggest you take a look at my ultimate guide on how to buy your first dive computer and at my post with the 10 best dive computers with integrated alerts. Short on time? Then the Shearwater Perdix 2 Ti Dive Computer Black or Shearwater Teric Dive Computer are the perfect gift for any scuba diver.
8. Fluo Dive Torch
A fluo dive torch is like the ultimate tool for underwater exploration – I love the Tovatec UV LED Dive Light. Not only does it provide a powerful beam of light to illuminate the depths, but it also comes with a fluorescent mode that reveals the hidden beauty of marine life.
Imagine the excitement when your dive buddy will see the vibrant colors of corals and critters glowing in the dark! Plus, it’s compact and easy to carry, making it a must-have for any diving adventure, particularly in places where fluo diving is available (see Florida Keys and Maldives). Trust me, they’ll be thanking you every time they dive into the mysterious underwater world!
9. Backup Dive Torch
A backup dive torch is a must have for any scuba diver. I suggest the OrcaTorch D710, 3000 Lumen Dive Light which is as powerful as a normal dive torch. Picture this: you’re exploring the mesmerizing depths, and suddenly your main torch runs out of juice, leaving you in the dark.
That’s when the backup torch swoops in like a superhero, saving the day (or dive!). It ensures they won’t be left stranded in the abyss and brings that extra peace of mind every diver craves. So, go ahead and gift your underwater adventurer friend a backup dive torch – they’ll thank you on their next unforgettable dive!
10. White Slate
Imagine you’re out on a dive, exploring the stunning underwater world, and come across an incredible marine creature you’ve never seen before. You wanna jot down its name, but dang, you forgot your notepad! That’s where the white slate comes in – the ultimate gift for a scuba diver. The Dive Rite Executive slate is the perfect underwater slate you can find on the market given its reasonable size and compact design.
It’s like an underwater chalkboard! You can scribble, sketch, or jot down important notes, like dive times or air levels. No more missing out on amazing sightings or forgetting crucial details. It’s the diver’s best buddy, ensuring unforgettable underwater adventures! It is also really handy to communicate with your buddy when hands signals are not enough.
11. Wet Notes
In case you think that a single white slate will not be enough, you should consider gifting a Wet Notes kit. These nifty little waterproof notebooks are like a diver’s best friend underwater. The Dive Rite Dive Writes Notebook is super handy, and every diver knows how vital it is to keep track of their underwater adventures. Trust me, your scuba buddy will absolutely love this thoughtful and practical gift! Note that this is an amazing gift also for divers that plan to take technical courses.
12. Dive Knife
So, let me tell you why a dive knife like the Scubapro X-Cut 5″ Titanium TEK Knife w/ Nylon Sheath is an absolute winner as a gift for a scuba diver! Picture this: exploring the mesmerizing underwater world, and suddenly you need to cut loose from a tangled rope or fishing line. That’s where this trusty little tool comes into play! It’s a versatile lifesaver, providing both safety and convenience underwater. No diver wants to be caught without one and you will be amazed if I told you how many divers don’t actually have one!
From emergencies to practical tasks and marine conservation activities, a dive knife has got their back and makes them feel like a real underwater hero! It’s the kind of gift that’s thoughtful and practical, ensuring they’ll always remember your awesome present during their exciting dives!
Freediving Gear and Accessories
Looking to surprise your freediver friend? We’ve got you covered with unique gift ideas for freedivers! Picture this: a training buoy to enhance their skills, a nose clip for effortless dives, a freediving computer to monitor depths, a secure lanyard for peace of mind, a freediving belt for streamlined descents, and a top-notch mask for crystal-clear views. These game-changing tools will surely make their underwater escapades even more exhilarating!
13. Training Buoy
If you want to get your freediver buddy a gift that’ll leave them stoked, look no further than the Mares training buoy. It’s an absolute game-changer, helping them improve their skills, stay safe, and have a blast in the deep blue. A must-have for any serious underwater adventurer! The Mares training buoy is one of those practical scuba gift ideas for dive instructors. I find it super useful in my open water classes whenever I need to lay a vertical line to demonstrate some skills such as the CESA or descent along a line.
14. Nose Clip
Alright, here’s a little secret for all you thrill-seeking gift givers: the Cressi nose clip is THE bomb for freedivers! No more pesky water up the nose ruining the dives. It’s a game-changer, letting them focus on the depths without a care. Trust me, your underwater pal will thank you big time!
15. Freediving Computer
The Mares Smart Apnea Free-Dive Computer is THE gift for your freediver friend. It’s like having an underwater genius buddy with them! With its cutting-edge features, like depth and temperature tracking, dive time alarms, and surface interval info, they’ll unlock new depths of adventure. Trust me, this sleek gadget will make them feel like they’re ruling the ocean! The Mares Smart Apnea Free-Dive Computer is among the best dive computers for freedivers therefore you cannot go wrong with such choice.
16. Lanyard
The XS Scuba Deluxe Freediving Lanyard is like a freediver’s underwater safety buddy, keeping them secure along the vertical descent line and worry-free during those epic dives. Trust me, they’ll be forever grateful!
17. Freediving Belt
The XS Scuba rubber weight belt with a commercial buckle is THE gift to surprise your freediver friend! It’s sturdy, comfy, and keeps those weights secure during their epic underwater adventures. They’ll be thanking you every time they take the plunge! Note that the rubber weight belt for freediving is not the same as a normal scuba diving belt. I do not recommend to buy a freediving weightbelt if your friend is not a freediver.
18. Freediving mask
The SEAC One Freediving Low Volume Mask is the real deal for your freediver buddy. It fits like a dream, giving them crystal-clear views of marine wonders. No leaks, no fuss, just pure underwater magic! It works perfectly both as a main mask and as a backup mask.
Underwater Photography and Videography
Underwater photography and videography tools are among the most appreciated gifts by any scuba diver. Seriously, these gadgets are like a dream come true for any avid diver. Capturing those breathtaking moments beneath the waves, immortalizing marine life encounters, and sharing it all with the world—what could be better? Trust me; your buddy will be over the moon with these thoughtful and unforgettable presents!
19. Underwater Action Camera
An underwater action camera is the perfect choice to capture those breathtaking moments beneath the waves. Whether they’re exploring vibrant reefs or encountering fascinating marine life, this high-tech gadget will preserve their underwater adventures in stunning detail. If you are keen on learning more about underwater action cameras, check out my post on the best action cameras for scuba diving. If you are short on time and would like to buy the best action cam on the market, you should definitely consider the GoPro Hero 11 Black.
20. Floating Tripod for GoPro
The SOONSUN 4-in-1 floating selfie stick for GoPro is the perfect choice for any avid underwater videographer. It combines innovation and functionality, allowing divers to capture breathtaking underwater moments like never before. This game-changer ensures stability and buoyancy for the GoPro camera, making it an ideal companion for exploring the deep blue. Trust me, this thoughtful gift will be a hit among diving enthusiasts, elevating their underwater photography game with ease.
21. Smartphone Underwater Housing
The Pictar Waterproof Smartphone Case is a game-changer for underwater enthusiasts. This incredible gadget allows divers to capture stunning photos and videos with their smartphones while exploring the depths (maximum depth of 50 ft). Its innovative design ensures both practicality and protection, making it an ideal present that will surely make a splash during their diving escapades.
22. Polar Pro Fifty Fifty Dome for GoPro
Looking to surprise your scuba diver friend with an extraordinary gift? The Polar Pro FiftyFifty Dome for GoPro is an absolute game-changer for capturing mesmerizing moments beneath the waves. Its seamless blend of innovation and utility ensures breathtaking split-level shots with unmatched clarity. Trust me, this gift will make them the envy of every scuba enthusiast while preserving memories that will last a lifetime!
23. DIVEVOLK SeaTouch 4 MAX Dome for Smartphone
The DIVEVOLK SeaTouch 4 MAX kit with Dome Lens is an ingenious innovation, allowing divers to take split shots without having an underwater camera or action cam. Imagine capturing breathtaking marine moments without worrying about water damage to your precious device. This game-changer keeps your friend connected to the underwater world while maintaining their smartphone’s safety, making it the perfect blend of technology and adventure. Dive into this gift idea today and watch their excitement soar to new depths!
24. Red Filters for GoPro
These nifty accessories enhance underwater footage by restoring the lost red hues, providing stunning and true-to-life visuals of their underwater adventures. With these filters in their scuba gear arsenal, your friend will be able to capture vibrant marine life and mesmerizing ocean landscapes like a pro. So, why wait? Dive into the perfect gift for your favorite underwater explorer today, check out the FLIP Two Filter Kit. I personally use them on every dive and can guarantee that they make the post editing process way easier.
25. Scuba Lanyard
Another useful piece of gear for your scuba diving friends is an underwater camera lanyard. These objects are always useful and needed to keep pieces of scuba gear attached to a diver’s BCD, reducing the risks of losing them during a dive. The Innovative Scuba Smart Coil Lanyard Black is compact, and available in four different colours, it expands to 36 inches, making it a perfect fit for underwater photographers.
Eco-Friendly Gifts
We’ve got the perfect combo that ticks all the boxes: an eco-friendly regulator set, a versatile storm poncho, and an eco-friendly wetsuit. Not only will they dive into an adventure of a lifetime, but they’ll also do it with a clear conscience, knowing they’re contributing to a greener planet. Get ready to make a splash with these ocean-friendly essentials!
26. Eco Friendly Regulator Set
The Apeks XL4 Ocea Stage 3 regulator set stands out as an ideal gift for eco-conscious scuba divers. Its top-notch design ensures smooth underwater exploration while maintaining minimal environmental impact. With eco-friendly materials and advanced technology, it fosters a sense of responsibility towards marine ecosystems. Delighting any diver who values sustainability and exceptional performance.
27. Storm Poncho
The Fourth Element Storm Poncho stands out as the ultimate gift for eco-conscious scuba divers. Its exceptional design combines practicality and sustainability, crafted from eco-friendly materials without sacrificing style or function. This versatile poncho ensures comfort and protection after exhilarating dives, all while keeping environmental responsibility at the forefront. An ideal blend of fashion and eco-awareness, making it the perfect eco-conscious diver’s companion.
28. Eco Friendly Wetsuit
Looking for the ultimate gift for an eco-conscious scuba diver? Look no further than the Aqualung 4/3 mm Xscape Yulex wetsuit (man version here)! Crafted with cutting-edge eco-friendly Yulex material, this premium wetsuit ensures top-notch performance while minimizing environmental impact. Its 4/3 mm thickness strikes the perfect balance between warmth and flexibility, guaranteeing a comfortable dive experience. Show your love for both the oceans and your adventurous friend by gifting them this sustainable and high-quality gear. They’ll appreciate the thoughtfulness and you’ll have a loyal dive buddy for life!
Liveaboard Diving Gifts
If you are looking for a gift for a friend that is about to go on a liveaboard trip, the following ideas won’t disappoint you. They are the pieces of scuba gear every liveaboard diver should have and they will make any liveaboard trip safer and more enjoyable.
29. Marine Rescue GPS
The Nautilus Lifeline Rescue GPS is the perfect gift for any diver planning to go on a liveaboard. I personally carry one with me on every liveaboard dive and although I never had to use it, it gives me great piece of mind. This small GPS device is depth rated to 425 feet, and is waterproof in all sea conditions. In case of emergency, it can easily be activated by a diver and it sends his or her accurate position and a man overboard distress message to all AIS equipped ships up to a distance of 34 miles.
30. Reef Hook
Diving from liveaboards means reaching unspoiled dive sites and spotting incredible sea creatures. In some cases liveaboard diving implies diving in strong current environments. To enjoy such dives, a reef hook is definitely the tool to have. The Trident Stainless Steel Reef Hook comes with its own line and brass clip. This rugged, functional and cheap hook is the perfect gift for any diver planning to go on a liveaboard trip.
31. Utility/Mask Pouch
Although a utility or mask pouch is useful in almost every dive, I find it particularly handy while diving from a liveaboard. Not only it allows me to carry along my spare mask, but also other tools like my reef hook or DSMB. I also use it to store my GoPro when I don’t need it. I really like the OMS Utility/Mask Pouch as it is relatively small but still optimized to carry along more objects than just a spare mask.
32. Protective Case
The Pelican 1525Air Carry-On Case with Pick-N-Pluck Foam is super useful for any diver that needs to carry along dive lights, underwater camera equipment, a dive computer or even a regulator. I find it particularly useful during liveaboard trips as it can be used to store the most delicate scuba diving equipment right after a dive.
33. Large DSMB
Diving from a liveaboard often implies splitting into smaller groups. No matter how luxurious is the liveaboard company, it might also imply some waiting times upon resurfacing. This is why I always suggest to carry along a large DSMB in all liveaboard trips. This helps any diver being more visible at the surface. If you are planning on buying a DSMB for your dive buddy, take a look at my guide to make sure you make the best choice in terms of sizes, shapes and colors. If you are short on time, I suggest you purchase the largest Scubapro Marker Buoy (orange version).
34. Dream Liveaboard Trip in Indonesia or the Maldives
If you are looking for gift ideas for a special occasion or for a special friend, buying a liveaboard trip is definitely one of the best options. Although there are Liveaboard Destinations virtually anywhere around the world, I recommend taking a look at the available options in Indonesia or in the Maldives. Among all liveaboard experiences, I find them the most breath-taking and unique.
Shore and Local Diving Gear
While scuba diving is often associated with exotic travel destinations, there are often plenty of unexplored wonder just around the corner. I personally love diving in local lakes and discovering new spots both in Europe and in the US. If you are looking for some gift ideas for a friend that is into local or shore diving, the following cool gift ideas won’t disappoint her.
35. Changing Mat
A changing mat is a must have accessory for any shore diver. It allows changing comfortably without getting your scuba gear full of sand or dust. The PADI Straw mat is large enough for a single diver to change comfortably, it is fully foldable and does not take too much space in a car’s trunk.
36. Trekking Poles
Trekking poles might come a bit as a surprise while writing about gift ideas for scuba divers. However, shore diving often implies relatively long walks with scuba gear on, and this is exactly where a pair of trekking poles come handy. I discovered their use while shore diving in Bonaire, and since then I always carry a pair of TrailBuddy Trekking Poles in all my shore dives.
37. Car Key Safe
A car key safe is another super useful accessory and gift for any shore or local diver. I find it particularly useful no matter if I am diving with my drysuit or wetsuit. I always prefer to leave my keys close to my car in a safe place, and the Gorilla Box magnetic Key Holder does a perfect job in this. It is small and waterproof so that it can be used safely also during rainy days.
38. Cordless Pressure Washer
This cordless pressure washer is super useful for any shore diver. No matter if in the sea or at a local lake, thanks to a cordless pressure washer you just need a bucket full of water to quickly clean your dive equipment before packing it in your car.
39. Portable Air Compressor
Just like the cordless pressure washer, this portable air compressor is ideal for any shore diver. It allows for quick cleaning of all the diving gear before being packed in the car. Note that this portable air compressor is not fit to fill in scuba tanks. Your friend will still need to stop at a local dive shop to have their tanks filled in.
40. First Aid Kit
A First Aid Kit should be part of every diver’s gear. But you would be amazed if I told you how many divers actually don’t have one. This is why I strongly recommend buying a first aid gift as a practical gift idea. You might also consider combining it with other gifts for local or shore diving.
Scuba Travel Gifts
If you would like to make a present to a special person or for a special occasion, there is nothing better for a diver than receiving a holiday as a gift. Check out my posts on the best liveaboards in the Maldives, and best luxury liveaboards for some inspiration. A scuba holiday is also one of the best gifts you can buy for a family member so that you can also join.
In case you are not into spending such a big amount of money and are rather looking for a gift idea for a scuba diver that is about to go on a scuba holiday, the following gifts will definitely not disappoint your friend.
41. Oceanic Jetpack Travel System
The Oceanic Jetpack Travel System is one of the best presents for any scuba diver that is always on the go. This hybrid solution combines a semi dry bag with an adjustable travel BCD to create a backpack that is able to carry a fully fledged dive set. If packed properly, it can be carried along any scuba trip as a carry-on luggage.
42. Aqualung Travel Package
The Aqualung Travel Package is the perfect solution for any diver that travels often and that needs to renew his or her full diving equipment. This package from Aqualung includes the Aqualung Pro HD Compact BCD, the Mikron Regulator, ABS Octopus, the i330R Wrist Computer, the Apeks Brass SPG 5000 PSI, and a spare low pressure hose. Although it seems expensive, I can guarantee that if you try and buy all the single components on a standalone bsis, you will end up paying way more than if you purchase the Aqualung Travel Package.
43. Stream2Sea Conscious Explorer Kit
The Stream2Sea Conscious Explorer Kit is the ultimate travel kit for eco-consious adventurers. The product meets the TSA guidelines for carry on luggage and includes all the must-have products to enjoy a scuba holiday in an exotic location, while being mindful of the environment.
44. Cressi Piper Carry-On Travel Bag
The Cressi Piper Carry-On Travel Bag is an excellent choice for any scuba diver planning to go on a diving vacation. It is rugged, and designed with Air travel in mind and with an overall volume of 50L it is perfectly capable of hosting a full scuba diving set. Its robust wheels are perfect for any kind of terrain, including sandy beaches.
45. Cressi Travel Patrol Package
The Cressi Travel Patrol Package is the perfect all in one solution for a scuba diver that needs a gear bag like the Piper Carry-on Travel bag and a full set of dive gear. I recommend it as a gift for beginner divers as the gear included in the package is not Cressi’s top choice, but it still comes at an unbeatable price.
46. Seac Bro Dry 25L
The Seac Bro Dry 25L is the perfect companion for any diver that needs a backpack that can also be used as a dry bag during day diving activities. It is a super practical dive gift which combines two solutions (regular backpack + dry bag) in one and that will allow your friends to save some space in their gear bag.
47. Stainless Steel Travel Mug
This stainless steel travel mug is super handy if you are looking for a present for a diver traveling to exotic locations. In most exotic location while mugs are provided in dive boats, I often don’t find them super clean (in most cases shared among divers and rinsed in sea water). Particularly in warmer climates, sharing mugs is not optimal, and this is why your friend will be delighted to have her own personal mug.
Scuba Courses and Experiences
Scuba diving courses and experiences are some of the best gift options for family members or close friends alike.
48. Discover Scuba Diving Course
If you are a scuba diver and would like to get your bestie into diving as well, I can only recommend to buy a discover scuba diving experience at a local dive shop. You can check which is the closest shop directly on PADI’s website.
49. PADI Open Water Course
If instead you want to buy a present for a friend that you know is already interested in learning how to scuba dive, I definitely recommend signing your friend up for PADI’s Open Water Diving Course. This is the very first scuba diving certification that serves as a gateway to the underwater world. I am sure your friend won’t be disappointed!
50. PADI Specialties
If you are looking for a gift idea for a diver that is already certified and that you know is planning to enhance her knowledge and skills, there is a whole world of certifications and scuba diving specialties on PADI’s website. Also in this case if you need help on choosing the right one for your friend, just contact me for some personalized advice. I will also be able to tell you up to what level your friend is actually certified.
