Do your homework. There are several options for finding a dive buddy before your vacation. Check with your local dive store or club and post messages on the web in places like ScubaDiving.com's Diver to Diver message board and BuddyFinder. While advanced planning isn't necessary, it does offer the opportunity to find out something about the experience, skills and personality of a possible partner.

If you're planning a trip and you're not bringing your own buddy, increase your chances of finding one who will be a good match for you with "How to Find a Buddy".