Diver Hand Signals

Ascend

Emerge or ascend, I will rise higher or move upward. A hand forms a fist with the thumb pointing up, and the hand is lifted to indicate the direction of ascent.

Descend

Descend, or I will dive deeper. A fist is made with one hand, the thumb pointing downward, and the hand moves downward to emphasize the diving direction.

Okay – everything is fine

The “OK” symbol is represented by forming a circle with the thumb and the tip of the index finger. This hand gesture can be used both to inquire about someone’s well-being (“Everything alright?”) and to respond affirmatively (“Everything’s fine”).

Problem – Something is wrong

When the hand moves horizontally with all fingers spread, it indicates that something is wrong with you or that you have a problem.

Pressure? What is your remaining tank pressure?

Or: How much air do you have left?
Tap with two fingers (index and middle finger) on the palm of your other hand. In response, you are expected to indicate the remaining pressure in your tank. If your residual pressure is above 100 bar, it is usually sufficient to respond with an okay sign. Make sure to discuss this with the guide before the dive (your buddy should hopefully be familiar with your communication method).

Stop

The open hand in front of the extended arm signifies “Halt” or “Stop!”.
This gesture indicates that one should maintain their current position and refrain from diving further. It is a serious hand signal, often used during encounters with dangerous animals – possibly when you are dangerously close to a blue-ringed octopus or a stonefish.

Buddy

Stay close to your buddy, dive nearer to your buddy. This is often a reminder when you have strayed too far from your diving partner. Imagine that for some reason, you find yourself suddenly without air… so, ensure you remain near your buddy — but do so without crowding them.

Ascend to safety stop

Indicates the prompt to ascend for the safety stop, typically a 3-minute pause at a depth of 5 meters.

Low on air – I’m about to run out of air

Make a fist with one hand and bring it towards your chest. This motion can be repeated several times to emphasize urgency.

Out of air

This hand signal indicates that you have completely run out of air – it is a genuine emergency signal!
If you are experiencing only a slight shortage of air, please use the previous hand signal – as it does not yet constitute an emergency.

Boat

Boat or ship.
This typically refers to one’s personal diving boat but can also serve as additional information for a stop signal (e.g., while ascending).

Cramp

This signal involves opening and closing your fingers to indicate to your partner that you are experiencing a muscle cramp, which commonly occurs in the calf muscles. You might need their assistance to stretch the muscle and alleviate the cramps, or you may simply require some time…

Problem equalizing  – ear pressure

The best way to indicate issues with pressure equalization is to start with the general signal for a problem and then point to your ear with your index finger. If you need some more time, communicate to your buddy that they should remain at the current depth (refer to the instructions below).

Leveling

Indicates that you should maintain this altitude this level – also as a command: “Stay at this depth.” Do not go lower or higher.