Night diving offers a unique way to see a different underwater world. It is nighttime underwater, so many marine creatures are nocturnal. It is important to prepare yourself for this experience. Before you dive, make sure you know what equipment you need and how to select a site.
Bioluminescence
You can experience the wonders of bioluminescence during a night dive by turning off your scuba torch and waving your arms in the water. As you move your arms in the water, bioluminescent plankton lights up blue. This happens when certain chemicals are vibrated and produce light.
Bioluminescence is used to communicate and attract mates in marine life. Syllid Fireworms, for instance, live under the ocean floor in mucus tubes. After the full Moon, they return to the surface.
Be aware
If you have never dived at Night before, you need to be careful. These precautions include avoiding excessive light and avoiding using dive lights. These lights may cause blurred vision in the night for other divers. You may also be at risk of developing cardiac abnormalities by exposing yourself to the lights.
Not only should you limit your light exposure but also must you use a buddy partner. When night diving, a buddy partner is essential. Your buddy will be able to help you identify potential subjects. Before you dive, be sure to practice hand signals together. Make sure that your buddy is familiar with how to use the light. To avoid direct light on the subject, instead aim it at them with your flashlight.
Equipment
Special equipment is necessary for night dives. Backup lights are essential. This type light is small enough that you can carry it in your pocket. You should also have a modeling light, which is a pinpoint light attached to a strobe. In the past, divers used chemical glow sticks to find their way back to the boat after the dive, but environmental concerns have led to a switch to battery-operated signal lights with different colored lenses.
You will also need a quality diving light and a compass. You will also need a light that gives you the ability to communicate with other divers. Additionally, you must be familiar with the functions of your diving rig's gauges. You should also feel comfortable diving at nights. If you are not feeling secure, you should leave immediately. It doesn't matter whether the cause is poor training, bad weather, water conditions, or anything else, if you don't feel safe, you could find yourself in a dangerous spot. You should avoid substances that may impair judgment.
Choosing a dive site
Night diving is best done at night. You don't want your first dive to be complicated by having new gear, carrying a DSLR, or diving deeper than usual. It will be easier to get comfortable, and your first night dive will go well. You can dive in the twilight or go deeper later.
You will need to research in order to choose the best night dive location. There are many factors you need to consider. If night diving is something you are new to, it's important that you choose a dive site that has a long history of night diving. The day allows you to easily locate the dive site and navigate around it. It is also easier to dry your equipment in the heat of the day.
Night dive buddy
The choice of a night diver buddy can be challenging. You need to be careful not to hit objects or change the water speed when it goes dark. Night divers should also be prepared for cold water. It is not something anyone wants to feel uncomfortable or make the dive difficult.
Your night dive buddy should discuss your dive plan and any special requirements before you go. This includes the order you wish to complete the dive. You should also discuss how you will communicate, including using hand signals and light signals.