Frequently Asked Questions
Event Information
North West Dive Fest 2026 will be held on August 28, 2026 at Capernwray Diving Centre in Carnforth, Lancashire. The event starts at 9:00 AM and runs throughout the day.
The event takes place at Capernwray Diving Centre, Over Kellet, Carnforth, Lancashire LA6 1BU, England.
View detailed Capernwray information
Dive Fest includes organized dives, vendor stalls, BSAC club zone, rebreather try dives, DPV (Diver Propulsion Vehicle) try dives, underwater treasure hunt, raffle, photo competition, and social activities. There's something for divers of all levels!
Yes! North West Dive Fest welcomes divers of all certification levels, from Open Water divers to advanced technical divers. Activities are tailored to different skill levels, and you can choose what suits your experience.
Tickets & Registration
Yes, advance ticket purchase is highly recommended! Tickets purchased in advance are cheaper than on-the-day prices.
Plus, advance booking guarantees your place at the event and helps us plan better for activities and catering.
Advance Purchase: Discounted rates available when you book early
On-the-Day: Higher prices apply for walk-ins
On-the-Day: Higher prices apply for walk-ins
Save money! Purchase your tickets in advance to get the best price and secure your spot.
Refund policies vary depending on how far in advance you cancel. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel. Tickets may be transferable to another person - contact the organizers for details.
Your ticket includes entry to the event, access to all vendor stalls, the club zone, raffle entry, participation in the photo competition, and attendance at try dive sessions (subject to availability). Some activities may have additional costs - check individual activity details.
Diving Requirements
Yes, to dive at the event, you must have either:
- Capernwray Membership - Annual membership offers the best value if you plan to dive at Capernwray regularly
- Capernwray Day Pass - Available for non-members who want to dive on event day
All diving agencies are accepted (BSAC, PADI, SSI, NAUI, etc.).
Visit dive-site.co.uk/diving for membership information.
Note: If you're only attending for non-diving activities (vendors, raffle, social), Capernwray membership is not required.
All certification levels are welcome! We organize dives suitable for Open Water divers through to advanced and technical levels. Activities like the rebreather and DPV try dives have specific prerequisites - check individual activity requirements. You must show proof of your certification when checking in.
Yes, third-party diving insurance is mandatory for all participants diving at Capernwray. This is typically included with agency memberships (BSAC, PADI, SSI, etc.). You'll need to provide proof of insurance when checking in at the dive center.
Yes, Capernwray Diving Centre offers a full range of rental equipment including BCDs, regulators, wetsuits, drysuits, tanks, and weights. Advance booking is strongly recommended to ensure availability. Contact Capernwray directly at 01524 735736 to reserve equipment.
Essential items:
- Dive certification card
- Dive insurance proof
- Logbook
- Your own equipment (or arrange rental in advance)
- Thermal protection - water can be cold, especially at depth (drysuit or 7mm wetsuit recommended)
- Dive computer
- SMB (Surface Marker Buoy)
- Torch/dive light
- Camera (for the photo competition!)
Photo Competition
The photo competition opens on the day of the Dive Fest event (August 28, 2026). All submissions are made online through our website during or immediately after the event.
No, only photos taken during the 2026 Dive Fest event on August 28, 2026 are eligible for entry. This ensures the competition celebrates this year's event and gives everyone an equal opportunity.
Each person can vote once per competition. Voting is tracked to ensure fairness. Make your vote count by choosing your favorite photo!
Anything from the Dive Fest event! This includes underwater shots from dives, equipment preparation, vendor stalls, social activities, presentations, or candid moments. The goal is to capture what makes Dive Fest special to you.
Visit the competition submission page on our website, upload your best photo from the event, add a title and description, and submit. Each participant can submit one entry. Your photo will be reviewed before being made available for voting.
Practical Information
Yes! Capernwray Diving Centre has an on-site café serving hot and cold food and refreshments throughout the day. There will also be food vendors at the event.
Yes, free parking is available at Capernwray Diving Centre for all attendees. Arrive early during busy periods to secure a spot close to the entrance.
Yes, Capernwray has male and female changing rooms with hot showers. Facilities are wheelchair accessible.
Absolutely! Non-divers are welcome to attend and enjoy the vendor stalls, raffle, social activities, and the overall festival atmosphere. It's a great day out for family and friends of divers too!
The event is located in Carnforth, Lancashire with nearby accommodation options in Carnforth, Lancaster, and Morecambe. We recommend booking early as the area can be busy during summer. Contact us for recommendations.
Still have questions?
Get Your Tickets