Night diving allows you to dive in a different underwater environment. Night diving is a different underwater world, as many marine mammals are nocturnal. Preparing yourself to dive in this unique environment is key. Learn about the equipment that you will need, and how to choose a dive spot.
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. Bioluminescent plankton will light up blue as you move your arms around the water. This occurs when certain chemicals become vibrated and create light.
Many marine species use bioluminescence for communication and to attract mates. For example, syllid fireworms live under the sea floor in mucus tubes and head to the surface after the full moon.
Be aware
If you have never dived at Night before, you need to be careful. These precautions include avoiding exposure to excessive light, and avoiding the use of dive lights. These lights may damage the night vision of other divers. Additionally, exposing yourself to these lights may increase your risk of cardiac irregularities.
A buddy team is essential for you to avoid excessive light exposure. Even more important is a partner for night diving. Partner will help you to identify potential subjects. Be sure to practice hand signals with your partner before you go on the dive. Your buddy should be able to correctly use the light. Avoid shining the light directly on subjects. Instead, aim it at their hands.
Equipment
Special equipment is required for night diving. First, make sure that you have backup lights. This type is often small enough to fit in your pocket. You should also have a modeling light, which is a pinpoint light attached to a strobe. Divers used to use chemical glow sticks to navigate back to their boat after a dive. However, environmental concerns led to the switch to battery-operated signal light with different colored lenses.
The second is a quality dive light, and a compasse. A light that allows you to communicate with other divers is also essential. You will also need to know how your diving rig works. You must also be able to dive at night. You should not dive if you aren't feeling safe. You could end up in dangerous situations, regardless of whether you are unable to train, have bad weather or live in unsafe conditions. Additionally, you should avoid any substances that impair your judgment.
Choosing a dive site
You will need to find a calm, shallow night dive spot when you are ready to go night diving. You don't want your first dive to be complicated by having new gear, carrying a DSLR, or diving deeper than usual. Staying true to the basics will make your first night dive easy and enjoyable. You can dive in the twilight or go deeper later.
Research is key to choosing the right night dive spot. There are many factors to consider when choosing a night dive site. You should choose a site with a history of night diving if you have never done it before. You can use the day to locate and map the dive sites. You can also dry your equipment more quickly and warmer during the day.
Night dive buddy
It can be hard to find a night-diving buddy. It is important to slow down and avoid hitting things as the water changes rapidly when the sun sets. Also, the water is more cold than normal during the day so night divers must be warm. Being cold can make it uncomfortable and unpleasant.
Discuss your dive plan, and any special instructions, with your night dive buddy, before you dive in darkness. This includes the order in which you want to complete the dive. You should also discuss how you will communicate, including using hand signals and light signals.