Plan Your Dive – Dive Your Plan: Honoring the Life and Legacy of
Hal Watts
The NAUI family mourns the loss of Hal Watts, NAUI #899, a pioneer in the diving community and a monumental figure in the evolution of technical diving. Hal, known globally as “Mr. Scuba,” passed away on December 7, 2024, in Ocala, Florida, at the age of 88. His incredible career, marked by groundbreaking achievements and selfless contributions to diver education, leaves an indelible mark on the underwater world.
A Lifelong Passion for Diving
Hal Watts’ journey in diving began in 1955, while pursuing a Master of Law degree at John Marshall Law School in Atlanta, Georgia. However, it wasn’t until 1961 that he purchased some used scuba gear and began exploring the underwater world. By 1962, Hal had launched Florida Diver’s Supply (FDS), where he began training cave divers and issuing some of the earliest cave-diving certifications in the United States.
Hal’s relationship with NAUI began early in his career, and he remained a vital part of the association’s history. Through his work as a NAUI Extended Range Instructor Trainer, Hal trained countless divers in the techniques and safety practices required for deep, technical, and cave diving.
A Pioneer of Deep Diving
Hal Watts was among the most prominent in deep air diving, a specialization he helped define in the early days of scuba when air was the only gas available for deep dives. His approach emphasized meticulous planning and safe execution, explained best by his now-famous mantra: “Plan your dive – dive your plan.”
In 1967, Hal set a World Record Deep Air Dive to 390 feet (119 meters), earning recognition in The Guinness Book of World Records. Three years later, he achieved another milestone with a cave-diving depth record of 415 feet (127 meters). His influence extended to mentoring six world record-holding divers, including his daughter, Scarlett Watts, who set a women’s world record of 425 feet (129 meters) in 1999.
By September 1999, Hal had guided 55 divers safely to depths between 328 feet (100 meters) and 417 feet (127 meters) with no accidents—a testament to his unmatched expertise and dedication to safety.
Innovation and Education
Hal’s contributions to diving extend far beyond his personal achievements. As a co-founder of the National Association for Cave Diving (NACD) in 1969, Hal helped shape the standards for cave diving safety and education. He also founded the Professional Scuba Association International (PSAI), which grew into a global training organization offering certifications in recreational and technical diving.
Hal’s work with NAUI and other agencies made him a leader in diver education. His specialties included Deep Air, Nitrox, Trimix, Rebreathers, Full-Face Mask diving, Drysuit diving, and Wreck Penetration. A true innovator, Hal is credited with developing the concept of the octopus regulator in collaboration with Scubapro and Sportsways, a contribution that has enhanced diver safety worldwide.
Exploring the World’s Depths
Hal’s curiosity and expertise took him to some of the most iconic dive sites on the planet. He was among the first recreational divers to explore the wreck of the USS Monitor, and he made multiple dives to the infamous Andrea Doria. His list of favorite wrecks included the Japanese wrecks at Truk Lagoon and the Lusitania off Ireland, where he trained Gregg Bemis, the ship’s owner, to safely dive to 90 meters.
A Lasting Legacy
Hal Watts’ inspired countless divers and instructors through his teachings and mentorships. NAUI celebrates Hal’s life and contributions as a reflection of our shared mission of ensuring every diver is equipped with the knowledge and skills to explore the underwater world responsibly. His legacy lives on in every diver he trained, the safety principles he instilled, and the spirit he exemplified.
Honoring Mr. Scuba
As we remember Hal Watts, we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on an entire industry. His passion, courage, and dedication serve as an enduring inspiration to the NAUI family and the global diving community.
Rest in peace, Hal. You will always be a part of the NAUI legacy.
