Night diving can be a great way to explore a new underwater world. Night diving is a different underwater world, as many marine mammals are nocturnal. You will need to be prepared for this unique diving environment. Learn more about what equipment you will need and how you can choose a diving site.
Bioluminescence
When you turn off your scuba flashlight and wave your arms in water, you can witness the wonders of night diving bioluminescence. Bioluminescent plankton is able to glow blue when you move your arms through the water. This occurs when certain chemicals become vibrated and create light.
Bioluminescence is used to communicate and attract mates in marine life. For example, syllid fireworms live under the sea floor in mucus tubes and head to the surface after the full moon.
Take care
If you've never scuba dived at night, there are some precautions you should follow. Avoid excessive light exposure and avoid using dive lights. These lights can cause night vision problems for other divers. You may also be at risk of developing cardiac abnormalities by exposing yourself to the lights.
In addition to limiting your light exposure, you must also use a buddy team. A dive partner is extra important when night diving. A buddy can help you identify potential subjects. Before you dive, practice hand signals with your buddy. Make sure that your buddy is familiar with how to use the light. For instance, you should avoid shining light directly on subjects, but instead, aim it at the subjects' hands.
Equipment
Special equipment is required for night diving. Make sure you have backup lighting. 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. 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.
Second, you will need a high-quality dive light and an accurate compass. Additionally, you need a light capable of allowing you to communicate and share information with other divers. Additionally, you must be familiar with the functions of your diving rig's gauges. Lastly, you must be comfortable diving at night. If you do not feel safe, you should get out immediately. It doesn't matter if it is bad weather, lack of training, or unsafe water conditions. You might end up in a dangerous position. Additionally, you should avoid any substances that impair your judgment.
Choose a dive location
You will need to find a calm, shallow night dive spot when you are ready to go night diving. Don't complicate your first night dive with extra gear, a camera or deeper diving than you are used to. Staying true to the basics will make your first night dive easy and enjoyable. You can dive in the twilight or go deeper later.
It is important to do your research before you decide on the night dive site. There are many things you should consider. If you're new to night diving, make sure you pick a site that has had a lot of success at night diving. The day allows you to easily locate the dive site and navigate around it. It's easier and warmer to dry your equipment during the day.
Choose a night diving buddy
It can be difficult to choose a night diving buddy. The water changes quickly when the sun goes down, and you need to move slowly to avoid hitting objects. Night diving is required to be more comfortable in the water. A cold dive can make the experience unpleasant and even painful.
Discuss your dive plan with your night buddy before you dive in the 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.