Books make some of the best Christmas gifts for divers. They fit perfectly into a stocking, travel easily in a dive bag, and offer endless inspiration between adventures. Whether your loved one is a new diver, a seasoned wreck explorer, or simply fascinated by the sea, these ten highly rated titles will spark their imagination long after the dive computer has powered down.
1. Shadow Divers: The True Adventure of Two Americans… by Robert Kurson
Few books capture the spirit of discovery like this gripping true story of two weekend divers who uncover a lost World War II U-boat off the New Jersey coast. Kurson’s storytelling immerses you in the mystery, risk, and obsession behind one of diving’s most famous recoveries.
Reader review: “I could almost taste the saltwater and feel the claustrophobia. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and humanity.”
2. Scuba Exceptional: Become the Best Diver You Can Be by Simon Pridmore
This thoughtful guide goes beyond technique to explore what makes an exceptional diver. Pridmore draws on decades of experience to help readers sharpen awareness, decision-making, and attitude underwater.
Reader review: “An excellent reminder that good diving isn’t about ego, it’s about mindset. Every diver should read this.”
3. Scuba Confidential: An Insider’s Guide to Becoming a Better Diver by Simon Pridmore
Full of insights, humour, and hard-earned wisdom, this is one of the most respected modern diving books. Pridmore lifts the curtain on the real skills and attitudes that separate competent divers from great ones.
Reader review: “Wish I’d read this before my advanced course. It explains the why behind everything your instructor tells you.”
4. Scuba Fundamental: Start Diving the Right Way by Simon Pridmore
Ideal for new divers, this guide lays a foundation for confident, safe, and enjoyable diving. It’s also a useful refresher for those returning to the water after a break.
Reader review: “A brilliant starter’s guide written in plain English. I gave it to my son before his Open Water course.”
5. Diving the Thistlegorm: The Ultimate Guide to a World War II Shipwreck by Simon Brown and Alex Mustard
A stunning visual and historical tribute to one of the world’s most iconic wrecks. Combining detailed site guides with exceptional photography, it’s both educational and beautiful.
Reader review: “An essential companion before diving the Thistlegorm. The photos alone make it worth owning.”
6. Treasures, Shipwrecks and the Dawn of Red Sea Diving: A Pioneer’s Journey by Howard Rosenstein
Rosenstein recounts the early days of diving in the Red Sea with a mix of adventure, humour, and nostalgia. It’s a rare firsthand account of how modern dive tourism began in one of the most storied seas on Earth.
Reader review: “A window into a time when the Red Sea was wild and unexplored. I couldn’t put it down.”
7. Where Are You From? – A Life of Adversity, Adventure, and the Ocean’s Calling by Van Tornow
An inspiring memoir about overcoming life’s challenges through connection with the ocean. It blends travel, endurance, and the transformative power of diving.
Reader review: “A heartfelt, courageous journey. You don’t have to be a diver to feel its depth.”
8. Chronicles of a Mermaid: Scuba Diving and Backpacking in Southeast Asia by Tiffani Burkett
A breezy, reflective travelogue about discovering self and sea through diving. Perfect for anyone who dreams of swapping the office for turquoise waters and dive gear.
Reader review: “Evokes everything I love about dive travel — freedom, salt air, and serendipity.”
9. Beyond the Grate by Rob Neto
A gripping mystery-thriller rooted in the realities of cave diving. Neto, an experienced diver himself, crafts an authentic and atmospheric story that keeps you guessing.
Reader review: “Technical accuracy meets real suspense. I felt like I was deep in the cave with the characters.”
10. Scuba Professional: Insights into Sport Diver Training & Operations by Simon Pridmore
For instructors or divers aspiring to go pro, this book delivers sharp insights into how training and operations work behind the scenes. A must-have for those serious about diving as a career or lifelong passion.
Reader review: “A dive industry classic. It should be required reading for every instructor candidate.”
How to Make It Personal
Books are easy to post, wrap, or tuck into a gear bag, but what makes them special is the personal touch. Add a handwritten note about your favorite dive memory together, or pair one with a small gadget like a slate pencil or reef-safe sunscreen. It’s a thoughtful way to show you understand their love of the sea.
So, whether you choose an epic wreck adventure, a practical guide, or a memoir from the deep, these books will fill any diver’s Christmas morning with dreams of their next descent.
