10 Mistakes New Divers Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Every diver remembers their first few dives — the excitement, the nerves, the new sensations underwater. Mistakes are part of learning, but knowing the most common ones can make your experience safer, smoother, and way more fun.
Here are the 10 most common mistakes new divers make — and how to avoid them, according to the instructors at Wanderlust Dive Center Bonaire.
1️⃣ Forgetting to Equalize Early and Often
Many new divers wait too long to equalize, causing ear discomfort or even barotrauma.
Tip: Equalize before you feel pressure — early, often, and gently.
2️⃣ Poor Buoyancy Control
Buoyancy is the key to relaxed, efficient diving — and protecting the reef.
Practice neutral buoyancy often, or take the SSI Perfect Buoyancy Specialty to refine your trim, breathing, and control.
3️⃣ Breathing Too Fast
Fast, shallow breathing increases air consumption and stress.
Focus on slow, deep breaths from your diaphragm — inhale fully, exhale completely, and find your rhythm.
4️⃣ Overweighting Themselves
It’s tempting to add extra lead “just to be safe,” but too much weight ruins buoyancy.
Start light, perform a buoyancy check at the surface, and adjust as needed.
5️⃣ Not Checking Gear Before Entry
Small issues on land become big problems underwater.
Always perform a pre-dive buddy check: BCD, weights, releases, air, and final OK.
6️⃣ Ignoring Dive Planning Basics
Even on Bonaire’s calm reefs, plan your dive and dive your plan.
Discuss maximum depth, direction, and time limits before entering.
7️⃣ Touching or Standing on Coral
Coral reefs are fragile ecosystems — even a single touch can kill years of growth.
Maintain good buoyancy, keep distance, and take only pictures.
8️⃣ Rushing the Descent
Excitement makes many divers drop too fast, leading to equalization issues or disorientation.
Descend slowly, control your position, and stay close to your buddy.
9️⃣ Neglecting Post-Dive Maintenance
Rinsing gear with fresh water after every dive keeps it in top condition and prevents corrosion.
Our gear rental page shows how we maintain professional-grade equipment the right way.
🔟 Forgetting That Diving Should Be Fun
Learning new skills is great — but never lose the joy.
Relax, smile, and remember why you started diving in the first place.
💡 Want to boost your diving skills and confidence?
Join one of our SSI Specialty Courses — like Perfect Buoyancy or Stress & Rescue — and take your diving to the next level with Wanderlust Dive Center Bonaire.
👉 Learn more: SSI Specialty Courses on Bonaire
