Scuba Diving: How long can one stay at 50 feet without having to undergo decompression?

When scuba diving at a depth of 50 feet, the maximum time a diver can stay without needing to undergo decompression is typically around 100 minutes. This is known as the "No Decompression Limit" (NDL) for that depth. However, it's important to note that staying at the maximum limit is not recommended, as it leaves no margin for safety or unexpected delays. Divers should always plan their dives to stay well within these limits to avoid the need for decompression stops15.

Additionally, factors such as air supply, physical condition, and previous dives can influence the actual time a diver can safely spend underwater. It's also crucial to perform safety stops, typically at 15-20 feet for 3-5 minutes, to reduce the risk of decompression sickness35.