A diver makes three dives in a day. What would typically be the maximum allowable surface interval between these dives?

The maximum allowable surface interval between dives is typically considered to be one hour, particularly for recreational diving scenarios. This duration allows for sufficient time for residual nitrogen from the previous dive to off-gas, reducing the risk of decompression sickness in subsequent dives.

The one-hour surface interval aligns well with the guidelines provided in dive tables and dive computers, which are designed to help divers manage their nitrogen loading based on dive profiles. Although some dive planning and conditions might allow for a shorter interval, such as 30 minutes, this does not sufficiently account for the nitrogen saturation that can occur in the body after the first dive.

Longer surface intervals, such as two or three hours, are generally not necessary for recreational diving unless specific dive conditions or profiles warrant it, or if divers need additional time before a more extensive or deeper second dive. Therefore, one hour is widely recognized as the standard duration for a safe surface interval between dives, making it the best choice in this scenario.