Scuba Travel Insurance: What You Need and Why
Scuba diving adds a layer of risk and cost to any trip. From missed dives to emergency evacuations, a good travel insurance plan can protect both your gear and your health. But not all insurance covers scuba diving—and the fine print matters. This guide explains what kind of coverage you need, what to watch out for, and why Divers Alert Network (DAN) is often the best choice for recreational divers.
1. Why Regular Travel Insurance Isn’t Enough
Most travel insurance policies exclude scuba diving—or only cover it under narrow conditions:
- Recreational diving only (usually <60 feet)
- Must be with a certified instructor or guide
- No coverage for decompression illness or chamber treatment
If you’re planning a dive trip, you’ll likely need specialized coverage.
What DAN Covers (and Why I Recommend Them)
The Divers Alert Network (DAN) offers policies built specifically for divers, with worldwide medical support and emergency coordination.
Key DAN benefits include:
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Hyperbaric chamber treatment
- 24/7 dive medical hotline
- Trip interruption and cancellation options
- Coverage for gear loss or damage (with add-ons)
Most importantly, DAN understands diving emergencies. If you call from a remote location, they can help you find a chamber, arrange medevac, and coordinate care.
Note: DAN membership alone does not include insurance—you must purchase a separate plan.
Dive Insurance vs. Travel Insurance
There are two types of insurance to consider:
| Type | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Dive Insurance | Dive-specific emergencies, chamber treatment, evacuation |
| Travel Insurance | Trip delays, lost baggage, non-dive medical issues |
For most divers, a DAN plan with optional trip coverage is the simplest and most reliable choice.
International Coverage & Evacuation
Even a minor injury can become serious if you're diving somewhere remote.
- Evacuation to a recompression chamber can cost thousands—DAN covers this
- Some countries require proof of dive insurance for entry or before diving
- Medical care abroad may require payment upfront without coverage
How Much Does Dive Insurance Cost?
Most DAN dive insurance plans cost between $40 and $125/year, depending on your location and the coverage level. Adding trip protection or gear insurance can bring the total closer to $300–$800/year.
Compared to the cost of a single dive trip—or a chamber ride—it’s a reasonable investment.
Final Tips
- Don’t dive without insurance. It’s a small cost that protects you from massive expenses.
- Use DAN for dive-related coverage. They’re trusted, experienced, and responsive.
- Consider bundling DAN’s dive insurance with trip protection for added peace of mind.
- Print or save your DAN card digitally—you may be asked for it before diving or during emergencies.
Personal Note:
I carry DAN dive insurance and annual travel insurance on every trip. Even if the worst doesn’t happen, dive insurance pays for itself when something just goes a little wrong—and it’s one less thing to worry about when you're 3,000 miles from home with a nonrefundable dive package.