Congestion meant no scuba for me, and a quick chat with Darren at Aussie Divers confirmed the decision.
Congestion hasn’t cleared, so I’m sitting out scuba entirely. I had a conversation with Darren from Aussie Divers, and his framing made it simple: it’s only scuba, and it’s not worth the risk to ears or lungs when you’re not at full health. The clarity in his tone made the decision feel obvious rather than disappointing.
There’s a temptation to push through on vacation—especially when the activity is the reason you planned the trip in the first place. But scuba is not forgiving if your sinuses and breathing aren’t clear. It’s one of those situations where “probably fine” is not the standard you want to use.
It’s an easy call when you frame it that way. The ocean will still be there later; the body needs to be okay first. Sometimes the best decision on a trip is the one that protects you for all the trips after.