Some divers are natural navigators, finding the boat or the way back to shore as easily as they find their cars in a parking lot. But some divers (and we know who we are) struggle to traverse even the simplest of sites.

And that creates anxiety, especially when the dive isn’t guided. Here are some tips to help you develop your navigational skills so that you are confident the next time you find yourself on an unguided dive.

1. Map It

Sketch the dive site and your planned course on your dive slate. You can gather details from the dive briefing or from a local operator. Note the direction of the sun, current and wave action, various depths (for example, the depth of the anchor and maximum depth of the dive) and landmarks, such as a large coral head or swim-through.

2. Plan Your Route

Whether you’re diving on a reef, wall or wreck, the easiest route to follow is an out-and-back pattern. With this approach, you fin from the boat or shore and confine your underwater exploration to a straight line. When a turn is necessary — for example, when you head from your entry point to a drop-off and then turn 90 degrees to follow the wall — make note of a unique landmark that will help you remember where you turned. You can still make the dive as an out-and-back course.

On a more complex reef system with various swim-throughs, channels, grottoes or clefts, don’t attempt to find your way without a guide or confident compass skills.

READ MORE: The Ultimate Predive Safety Check

3. Note the Landmarks

Pay attention to unusual markings — partially buried anchor chains, huge coral heads or sponges, anything that will help you find your way back. If these key points aren’t already sketched on your slate, make a mental note. A good rule of thumb: If it’s interesting enough to photograph, it’s probably a good feature to remember on your return.

If there’s current, be mindful of its direction. (Swim into the current so that you’re riding it on the return.) It’s also a good time to check the sun position.

4. Scan Behind You

It’s not only a good idea to glance behind to check on a trailing buddy, but it’s also a good time to make a mental snapshot of the underwater real estate you’ve just covered. By slowing down, you might notice something that looks totally different or that was hidden when you were approaching from the other side.

5. Use Your Instruments

On a site with a gradual slope or a wall, your depth gauge can also act as a navigational instrument. If you’ve noted the depth of the anchor before you left it, and your return route from deep to shallow is along the same path, you should be able find the anchor.

Worst-Case Scenario: What If You Get Lost?

Sometimes we get distracted underwater and stray from our planned route. If you don’t recognize anything in a reasonable amount of time, stop and relax. Are you sure you’re headed in the right direction? Check the direction of the sun and water movement. Check your depth gauge — are you sure you’re at the right depth? If all else fails, surface — slowly and with a safety stop — and get your bearings before wandering too far.

Get more dive-training and safety tips — go to the Training section of our website.