Solo or together? The group dynamics of Chinese dive travellers
How many Chinese guests typically show up together? Based on the past year of bookings on our platform, the answer is: mostly alone, or in twos.
DDIVE TOURISM MARKET AT A GLANCE
China’s potential in dive tourism is immense and set to continue rising in the foreseen future. According to PADI’s recent market report, China is the fastest-growing market in dive tourism. On average, the annual growth rate of newly certified divers in China is 35-40%, much higher than the overall global rate of 10%. The market also shows a strong interest in freediving and mermaid diving.
Before the pandemic, the Diving & Resort Travel (DRT) Expo in Shanghai recorded an average 30% yearly growth rate of exhibitors since 2014; this number jumped to 76% in 2017.
CCHINESE MARKET LOCALISATION
Localising your brand is crucial to breaking down cultural barriers and connecting with the Chinese audience.
At HelloDive, we're passionate about building multi-dimensional connections between brands and Chinese divers. Rather than just translating, we transform your website, social media, and other marketing materials into content that resonates with Chinese travellers. We know how and when to emphasise the details that matter to them. Plus, we offer various Chinese e-wallet options to our customers, so you don't have to worry about setting it up yourself. That way, you can seamlessly enter the market without any roadblocks.
Good customer experiences is key to maintaining growth and building a strong reputation in the Chinese market. To achieve this, it's important to understand the needs and preferences of Chinese divers at every stage of their journey. HelloDive offers training and consultation services to help your team gain the right level of market knowledge and effectively cater to the needs of Chinese divers.
HelloDive at Pacific Day 2026: Vanuatu Diving in Focus
HelloDive participated in Pacific Day 2026 in China, supporting the promotion of Vanuatu as an emerging South Pacific diving destination.
HelloDive's first SPTE visit reveals new opportunities for diving and tourism in the South Pacific
In March, HelloDive was invited to Nadi, Fiji to attend the South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE 2026), with Sales Manager Zoe representing the company at the event. As HelloDive's first participation in SPTE, the conference provided a valuable opportunity to better understand tourism developments across the South Pacific and strengthen relationships with regional industry partners.
Not just the wreck: Why Vanuatu caught our attention and what other dive businesses can learn from it
In March, the HelloDive team attended the South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE) and undertook a 10-day field trip across Vanuatu. The visit formed part of our broader destination development plans following HelloDive's recent appointment as the exclusive Chinese market partner of Pacific Dive, one of Vanuatu's leading dive operators.
Indonesia Field Report: Insights from our newest Dive Master
Recently, Jiahao, a member of the HelloDive team, completed a two-month field study across Indonesia. His journey covered core regions including Bali, the Gili Islands, Nusa Lembongan, Tulamben, and Komodo. In addition to meeting face-to-face with local dive shop operators to understand the current market, Jiahao successfully earned his Divemaster (DM) certification. This experience allows us to review products and services from a more practical and professional perspective.
A year of data: how Chinese divers plan their trips
Our booking platform, trip.hellodive.com, has officially reached its first anniversary.
The 2026 Asia Dive Expo Calendar and Strategic Planning
As the dive industry moves into 2026, major expos across Asia continue to play a critical role in shaping B2B relationships, market visibility, and annual sales planning. For suppliers looking to grow their presence in the Chinese-speaking market, choosing the right shows, and understanding what each one offers, has never been more important.
Seizing China’s Three Major Holidays: A Practical Guide for Capturing Peak-Season Growth
China’s outbound dive market runs on a clear seasonal rhythm, defined largely by three major holidays: Chinese New Year, Labour Day, and National Golden Week. These periods concentrate traveller attention and purchasing power, creating distinct opportunities, as well as competition, for operators looking to grow their presence in the Chinese market. This article outlines what differentiates each holiday and provides practical guidance on how to plan your products, timing, and marketing for 2026.