Who ultimately makes the decision about whether or not to dive?

The decision about whether or not to dive ultimately rests with you, the diver. This choice is fundamental to diving as it encompasses both personal responsibility and assessment of the diving conditions. Making this decision requires you to evaluate various factors, including your current physical health, skill level, comfort in the water, and the specific conditions of the dive site, such as visibility, currents, and weather.

This approach emphasizes the importance of self-agency in diving. Each diver must understand their own limits and abilities, and make informed choices based on their training and experience. This is especially crucial in wreck diving, where unique hazards may be present.

While instructors and diving buddies can provide guidance and recommendations, the final responsibility lies with you, as you are the one who must assess how you feel and whether you believe it is safe for you to proceed. Empowering divers to make their own decision fosters a culture of safety and awareness within the diving community.