Night diving offers a unique way to see a different underwater world. The underwater environment is different during the night, and many marine animals are nocturnal. This unique environment requires that you prepare for it. Learn about the equipment that you will need, and how to choose a dive spot.
Bioluminescence
If you are looking for the magic of bioluminescence, you can try night diving by turning off the torch on your scuba gear and waving your arms into the water. When you move your arms about the water, bioluminescent plantton will turn blue. This occurs when certain chemicals become vibrated and create light.
Bioluminescence can be used by marine life to attract mates or communicate with each other. Syllid fireworms, which live in mucus tubes under the seafloor and return to the surface on the full moon, are an example.
Take care
You should be aware of the following precautions if you are new to night diving. These precautions include avoiding excessive light and avoiding using dive lights. These lights could cause night vision issues for other divers. These lights can also cause cardiac irregularities.
To limit light exposure, you should also have a buddy team. A dive partner is extra important when night diving. You will have a buddy who can help you spot potential subjects. Before you dive, practice hand signals with your buddy. Your buddy should be able to correctly use the light. For instance, you should avoid shining light directly on subjects, but instead, aim it at the subjects' hands.
Equipment
You will need special equipment if you plan to do a night dive. First, ensure you have backup lights. This type light is small enough that you can carry it in your pocket. You will also need a modeling lamp, which is a light that is attached to a flashlight. 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.
Second, you will need a high-quality dive light and an accurate compass. You will also need a light that gives you the ability to communicate 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. Whether the reason is lack of training, bad weather, or water conditions, if you're not comfortable, you may end up in a dangerous situation. Avoid substances that affect your ability to judge.
Selecting the right dive site
If you want to dive at night, it is important to choose a site that is calm and shallow. You don't want to complicate your first dive with new gear, carrying a camera, or diving deeper than usual. Sticking to the basics will help you get comfortable and make your first night dive a success. Start out in the twilight, and you can go deeper later.
You will need to research in order to choose the best night dive location. There are many aspects that you will need to consider. 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. It's also easier to dry equipment and it is warmer.
Night diving buddies
Finding a night dive buddy is difficult. You need to be careful not to hit objects or change the water speed when it goes dark. The water is also colder than during the day, so a night diver must be extra warm. Feeling cold is something that no one wants. This can make diving unpleasant and uncomfortable.
Discuss your dive plan, and any special instructions, with your night dive buddy, before you dive in darkness. You should also discuss the order you would like to complete your dive. Also, discuss how you will communicate with each other using light signals and hand signals.