Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) is a vast and immersive MMORPG with a variety of environments to explore, including underwater areas. Diving underwater allows players to discover hidden treasures, complete quests, and explore stunning aquatic landscapes. However, the game doesn’t explicitly explain how to dive, leaving some players confused.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about underwater diving in FFXIV, including:
- How to Unlock Underwater Diving
- Controls for Swimming and Diving
- Key Locations with Underwater Exploration
- Benefits of Diving (Quests, Treasures, and Sightseeing Logs)
- Tips and Tricks for Underwater Navigation
Let’s dive in!
1. How to Unlock Underwater Diving in FFXIV
Before you can explore underwater areas, you must first unlock the ability to swim. Swimming (and by extension, diving) is introduced during the Stormblood expansion (Level 61 MSQ).
Step-by-Step Unlock Process:
- Progress Through the Main Story Quest (MSQ) – Reach the quest “The Lady of the Vortex” in the Stormblood expansion.
- Visit the Ruby Sea – This zone is where swimming is introduced.
- Complete the Quest “The Beast of Brewer’s Beacon” – This quest officially unlocks swimming.
- Learn How to Dive – Once swimming is unlocked, simply press the “X” key (PC) or Square (PS4/PS5) while swimming to dive underwater.
Note: If you’re on a controller, the default button may vary, but it’s typically the same as the “confirm” button when swimming.
2. Controls for Swimming and Diving
Once swimming is unlocked, you can freely explore water surfaces and dive beneath them. Here are the default controls:
PC Controls:
- W/A/S/D – Move forward/left/backward/right
- Spacebar – Swim upward
- X Key – Dive underwater / Surface
- Left Shift – Toggle between walking and swimming speeds
PlayStation Controls:
- Left Stick – Move
- X Button – Dive underwater / Surface
- Circle Button – Swim upward
- R1 (Hold) – Increase swimming speed
Underwater Movement Tips:
- Oxygen Mechanic: Unlike some games, FFXIV does not have an oxygen limit, so you can stay underwater indefinitely.
- Camera Adjustments: If the camera feels awkward underwater, try adjusting the settings in System > Character Configuration > Camera.
- Mounts: Some mounts (like the Syldra or Manacutter) allow for faster underwater travel.
3. Key Locations with Underwater Exploration
Several zones in FFXIV feature underwater areas, each with unique sights, quests, and secrets. Here are the main ones:
A. The Ruby Sea (Stormblood)
- Notable Features: Hidden caves, sunken ships, and the Kugane Ohashi wreckage.
- Quests: Several side quests and FATEs take place underwater here.
B. The Lochs (Stormblood)
- Notable Features: Underwater ruins and hidden pathways.
- Treasure Hunts: Some treasure maps lead to underwater dig sites.
C. The Tempest (Shadowbringers)
- Notable Features: Stunning bioluminescent landscapes.
- MSQ Relevance: Important story moments occur here.
D. Endwalker Zones (Labyrinthos & Others)
- While not all new zones have underwater sections, some hidden areas can be explored beneath the surface.
4. Benefits of Diving (Quests, Treasures, and Sightseeing Logs)
Why should you dive underwater in FFXIV? Here are some key rewards:
A. Hidden Quests & FATEs
- Some quests (like “The Ballad of Oblivion”) require underwater exploration.
- Certain FATEs (such as “The Ruby Princess”) take place beneath the waves.
B. Treasure Chests & Gathering Nodes
- Sunken treasure chests (often guarded by enemies) contain Gil, gear, and rare materials.
- Underwater gathering nodes (for Fisher and Miner) provide unique resources.
C. Sightseeing Logs
- Several Sightseeing Log spots are underwater, offering XP and achievements.
- Example: The “Sunken Pearl” in The Ruby Sea.
D. Mounts & Minions
- Some rare mounts (like “The Shadow Gwiber”) are obtained through underwater content.
- Minions such as “The Little Merrow” can be found in hidden spots.
5. Tips and Tricks for Underwater Navigation
Exploring underwater can be disorienting at first. Here’s how to make it easier:
A. Use the Minimap & Coordinates
- The minimap shows underwater terrain—use it to avoid getting lost.
- If searching for a specific spot, note the coordinates (e.g., X: 12.5, Y: 22.3).
B. Adjust Your Graphics Settings
- Underwater lighting can be dark—increase brightness in System > Display Settings.
- Disable “Screen Space Ambient Occlusion” for clearer visibility.
C. Use Mounts for Faster Travel
- Flying mounts (like the Grani or Lunar Whale) can also swim quickly underwater.
D. Watch for Hidden Passages
- Some caves and tunnels are only accessible by diving deep.
Final Thoughts
Diving in FFXIV opens up a whole new layer of exploration, offering hidden quests, treasures, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a completionist hunting for Sightseeing Logs or just want to admire the underwater world, mastering diving is a must for any adventurer.
