Night diving allows you to dive in a different underwater environment. Because many marine animals are nocturnal, the underwater environment changes at night. 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
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. As you move your arms in the water, bioluminescent plankton lights up blue. This phenomenon occurs when certain chemicals are disturbed by vibration and generate 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.
Be aware
You should be aware of the following precautions if you are new to night diving. These precautions include not being exposed to too much light and not using dive lights. These lights could cause night vision issues for other divers. You may also be at risk of developing cardiac abnormalities by exposing yourself to the lights.
To limit light exposure, you should also have a buddy team. Even more important is a partner for night diving. You will have a buddy who can help you spot potential subjects. Practice hand signals with your partner prior to you go on the dive. Also, make sure your buddy knows how to use the light correctly. For example, it is best to not shine the light directly at subjects but rather aim it at their hands.
Equipment
Night dives require special equipment. Make sure you have backup lighting. This type of light can be easily carried in your pocket. You will also need a modeling lamp, which is a light that is attached to a flashlight. 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.
Secondly, you must have a quality dive light and a compass. It is important that you have a light that can communicate with other divers. You will also need to know how your diving rig works. Lastly, you must be comfortable diving at night. If you do not feel safe, you should get out immediately. You could end up in dangerous situations, regardless of whether you are unable to train, have bad weather or live in unsafe conditions. It is important to avoid using substances that could impair your ability to discern the truth.
Selecting the right dive site
Night diving is best done at night. It's not a good idea to add more gear or take a camera on your first dive. Sticking to the basics will help you get comfortable and make your first night dive a success. You can start out by diving in the twilight and go deep later on.
You will need to research in order to choose the best night dive location. There are many factors you need to consider. If you've never done night diving before, you'll want to choose a site that has a good history of diving at night. It's easy to map out the dive area and get oriented during the day. It's easier and warmer to dry your equipment during the day.
Night diving buddies
It can be difficult to choose 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. Feeling cold is something that no one wants. This can make diving unpleasant and uncomfortable.
Talk to your night dive buddy about your dive plans and any special instructions before diving in the dark. This includes how you plan to complete the dive. It is also important to discuss how you will communicate. This includes using hand signals and light signs.