Colorado is a great location for scuba divers who are looking for dive sites both off the beaten path and on it. The Denver Aquarium has a shipwreck diving experience available, and Grand Lake offers some great deep-water lake diving. There are many more diving options to choose from. No matter your skill level, you are certain to find a scuba diving site in Colorado. Some dive sites may have special regulations, so make sure you understand all regulations before scheduling your dive.
Scuba Diving Requirements in Colorado
The state of Colorado does not require that a diver obtain his or her scuba certification to go diving. However, any seasoned diver will tell you it is best to get certified for your own safety and for the safety of your fellow divers. Most companies that offer scuba diving charters and transport require divers they are taking out to be certified, or to dive with one of their professional divers.
The state has a few other regulations for both people going scuba diving and those operating vessels in the vicinity of divers:
- Divers must use a red flag with a diagonal white stripe when submerged
- All dive flags must be visible from 100 yard away
- Scuba divers must stay within 100 feet of their dive flag
- Boaters and other vessels are required to stay at least 100 feet from a dive flag
Get Your Scuba Certification in Colorado
Because it is not required by law in Colorado, getting your scuba certification can seem like an unneeded expense. However, becoming a certified diver helps ensure both your own safety and the safety of those diving with you. Companies may also restrict your dive site choices if you are not certified. Be sure to visit our directory to find a local business that will help you get your scuba certification so you can dive at all of the great locations around Colorado!