Night diving can be a great way to explore a new underwater world. It is nighttime underwater, so many marine creatures are nocturnal. You will need to be prepared for this unique diving environment. Learn about the equipment that you will need, and how to choose a dive spot.
Bioluminescence
By turning off your scuba torch, you can enjoy the wonders and beauty of bioluminescence while night diving. Simply wave your arms in the water and turn your scuba torch off. 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.
Take precautions
You should be aware of the following precautions if you are new to night diving. Avoiding excessive light and using dive lights are two of the precautions. These lights may cause blurred vision in the night for other divers. Exposed to these lights could increase your risk of having cardiac irregularities.
You must use a buddy group to limit your light exposure. Night diving requires a dive partner. A buddy can help you identify potential subjects. Before you dive, practice hand signals with your buddy. Your buddy should be able to correctly use the light. You should not shine light directly onto subjects. Instead, aim the light at their hands.
Equipment
Night dives require special equipment. Backup lights are essential. This type of light can be easily carried in your pocket. Also, you should have a modeling flashlight. This is a pinpoint light that attaches 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.
A compass and a good dive light are also essential. Additionally, you need a light capable of allowing you to communicate and share information with other divers. Also, you will need to learn how to use your diving equipment's gauges. Lastly, you must be comfortable diving at night. You should immediately get out if you feel unsafe. You could end up in dangerous situations, regardless of whether you are unable to train, have bad weather or live in unsafe conditions. You should avoid substances that may impair judgment.
Selecting the right dive site
When you're ready to dive at night, you'll need to choose a night dive site that's calm and shallow. Don't complicate your first night dive with extra gear, a camera or deeper diving than you are used to. You will feel more comfortable and have a better night dive. You can begin by diving at night and move deeper later.
You will need to research in order to choose the best night dive location. There are a number of factors that you'll need to take into account. 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. During the day, you can easily map out the dive site and get oriented. It's easier and warmer to dry your equipment during the day.
Night dive buddy
It can be hard to find a night-diving buddy. You must be cautious when diving at night as the water changes very quickly. Night diving is required to be more comfortable in the 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 in which you want to complete the dive. Additionally, you should discuss how and when you will communicate.