What information is essential in a dive log?

The essential information in a dive log includes details of the dive date and location, as this documentation serves several important purposes for divers. Recording the date allows divers to track their experience over time, which is key for logging completed dives as part of a dive training progression or personal diving history. The location is equally critical because it provides context for each dive, including environmental conditions, visibility, and potential hazards.

Knowing where a dive was conducted helps divers reference specific sites when they plan future dives or assess their skills in different environments. This information can be particularly useful for identifying dive locations that may have unique underwater ecosystems or structures, which can inform safety decisions and dive planning.

While other information, such as dive instructors' names or details about the equipment used, can be beneficial, the date and location are foundational elements that inform many aspects of a diver's training and experience.