Influence of scuba divers' specialization on their underwater behavior

Purpose – This study aims to examine the relationship between recreation specialization and diver's underwater behavior in Perhentian Island. Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected using a pilot survey on 50 divers in Perhentian Island. In‐depth interviews with several dive operators were also conducted to support the findings. Findings – Specialized divers tend to recognize unacceptable behavior rather than less specialized divers. Skilled specialized divers tend not to touch the reefs and not to collect dead pieces of the corals compared to less skilled divers. Practical implications – Specialization and skills of divers can be used as an input to study diver underwater behavior while simultaneously providing insights on coral preservation. Originality/value – It is important to manage diver behavior as there are now several diving operators who offer unlimited diving packages catering to day and night diving from shore. Divers can minimize their impacts by practicing responsible diving behavior. Measures emanating from this study on diver underwater behavior may be implemented to encourage responsible scuba diving activity among divers and ensure longevity of the coral reefs.