Choosing the right diving package can make the difference between a comfortable, safe dive and a frustrating experience. Whether you’re snorkeling, learning scuba, spearfishing, or upgrading to portable dive tech, this guide highlights top diving packages across budgets and use cases, based on hands-on testing, expert input, and consumer feedback.
How we tested and chose these packages
We evaluated available diving packages by combining:
- Hands-on testing (fit, comfort, and real-world ease of use),
- Expert opinion (manufacturer specs, industry reputation, and regulator/BCD quality), and
- Consumer feedback (reliability, durability, and serviceability reported by owners).
Key metrics included comfort and fit, materials and durability, safety features (certifications, pressure reliefs), completeness of the kit, and value for money. We also weighed use-case suitability — snorkeling vs. entry-level scuba vs. tech/portable systems — to recommend the best option for different divers.
Travel Snorkel Combo
A compact mask-and-snorkel set ideal for travelers and beginner snorkelers. Tempered glass lenses, soft hypoallergenic silicone skirt and a purge valve on the snorkel make it comfortable and easy to clear. Great value for casual surface exploration and short snorkeling trips.
Travel Snorkel Combo — Best Budget Pick
The Ocean Combo is a straightforward, travel-focused mask-and-snorkel bundle designed for casual snorkelers. The mask uses tempered glass and a soft silicone skirt for a reliable seal and comfort, while the snorkel features a top valve to reduce water intrusion and a purge valve for easy clearing. It’s lightweight, affordable, and excellent for holidays, day trips, and first-time snorkelers. Pros: inexpensive, comfortable mouthpiece, easy to pack. Cons: not suitable as a primary scuba set — limited to surface use and shallow snorkeling.
BLU3 Nomad Mini System
A portable powered dive system that extends dive time via an 86Wh battery and optional DiveBoost Kit. Designed for short, shallow dives (rated to 15 ft), it prioritizes portability and modular battery options — a tech-forward choice for exploration near the surface.
BLU3 Nomad Mini System — Premium Choice
The Nomad Mini is a modern, battery-powered diving/assist system aimed at enhancing surface-to-shallow underwater excursions. Key strengths are the upgraded 86Wh battery for longer runtime, DiveBoost compatibility for dual-battery operation, and excellent portability with included dry-bag options. The unit’s depth rating (15 ft) positions it for reef excursions, freediving support, and surface-assist scenarios rather than deep scuba. Pros: advanced battery tech, portability, modular upgrades. Cons: high price, limited depth capability — not a replacement for a full scuba regulator/air system for certified dives.
Cressi Starter Scuba Kit
A full entry-level scuba package including a BCD, compact regulator, octopus, and console. Built from durable materials and configured for warm-to-temperate water training, it balances performance, reliability, and price—an excellent starter kit for new divers.
Cressi Starter Scuba Kit — Best Value for Money
This package bundles a rugged Start Pro BCD, an AC2 piston first-stage/regulator second-stage, a compact octopus, and an analog console. Cressi’s focus on durable Cordura fabrics, compact regulator performance, and clear, analog instrumentation makes this a complete, dependable starter kit for certified beginners and dive schools. Technical highlights include multiple LP/HP ports, quick-release weight options on the BCD, and industry-standard regulator configuration. Pros: complete kit, strong build, great price for a full set. Cons: analog console (vs digital computer) and may be heavier than ultra-travel kits.
Aqualung Essential Package
A well-rounded package tailored for women, including a Pro HD BCD, Titan regulator, ABS octo, and an i300c computer. Known for reliable performance and comfort, this set suits serious recreational divers seeking dependable gear from a respected brand.
Aqualung Essential Package — Editors Choice
Aqualung’s Essential Package offers a balanced kit for recreational divers who want trusted performance out of the box. The Pro HD BCD provides fit and comfort with integrated features, while the Titan regulator and ABS octo deliver breathing reliability. The included i300c computer adds modern dive planning and monitoring. This mix of comfort, well-regarded breathing systems, and a dive computer makes it the best overall pick for most recreational divers. Pros: reputable components, integrated computer, comfortable BCD fit. Cons: mid- to high-range price; not the lightest travel option.
Quick Comparison
Below is a concise overview to help you compare the four top packages at a glance:
- Aqualung Essential Package (Editors Choice) — Best overall for recreational divers who want a trusted brand package with a reliable regulator, BCD, and a dive computer. Price: $1099.
- Cressi Starter Scuba Kit (Best Value for Money) — Complete, rugged starter set for new divers and dive schools; outstanding value for a full regulator/BCD/console package. Price: $799.95.
- BLU3 Nomad Mini System (Premium Choice) — Premium, portable battery-powered dive assist system built for extended shallow excursions and portability; advanced battery options and modular upgrades. Price: $1849.
- Ocean Combo (Best Budget Pick) — Lightweight mask and snorkel set for travelers and casual snorkelers; cheapest way to get safe, comfortable surface gear. Price: $39.75.
Best overall: Aqualung Essential Package — it balances component quality, included computer, and real-world comfort. If you want the most complete recreational-diving package, this is our top pick.
Alternatives for specific needs:
- Want to get in the water on a budget? Choose the Ocean Combo for snorkeling.
- Training or outfitting new divers on a budget? Cressi Starter is the best value.
- Seeking cutting-edge portability and battery-powered assistance? Consider the BLU3 Nomad Mini.
Final Recommendation
After hands-on checks, expert assessments, and reviewing owner feedback, these picks cover the primary diving use cases: beginner scuba training, all-around recreational diving, travel/snorkeling, and experimental portable systems.
- If you want a single best choice for most recreational divers: go with the Aqualung Essential Package for its trusted components, integrated computer, and comfortable BCD.
- If you’re on a tighter budget but want a complete scuba starter kit: the Cressi Starter Scuba Kit offers the best value.
- If you only snorkel on vacation: the Ocean Combo is the clear budget pick.
- If you’re exploring portable, battery-powered dive assist tech for shallow water missions: the BLU3 Nomad Mini is the premium option — but be mindful of depth limits and intended use.
All recommendations are based on practical testing, manufacturer specs, and consumer experience. Match the package to how and where you plan to dive (snorkel, entry-level scuba, travel, or tech-assisted shallow exploration) and you’ll get the most out of your investment.