Night diving is a way to experience a completely different underwater world. Because many marine animals are nocturnal, the underwater environment changes at night. 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
When you turn off your scuba flashlight and wave your arms in water, you can witness the wonders of night diving bioluminescence. As you move your arms in the water, bioluminescent plankton lights up blue. This phenomenon is caused when certain chemicals react with vibration to generate light.
Bioluminescence is used to communicate and attract mates in marine life. Syllid fireworms, which live in mucus tubes under the seafloor and return to the surface on the full moon, are an example.
Be aware
If you have never dived at Night before, you need to be careful. Avoiding excessive light and using dive lights are two of the precautions. These lights can cause night vision problems for 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. A dive partner is extra important when night diving. You will have a buddy who can help you spot potential subjects. Before you dive with your buddy, make sure you practice hand signals. Also, make sure your buddy knows how to use the light correctly. Avoid shining the light directly on subjects. Instead, aim it at their hands.
Equipment
You will need special equipment if you plan to do a night dive. Backup lights are essential. This type of light is usually small enough to carry in your pocket. A modeling light, which attaches to your strobe, is also a good option. 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.
Secondly, you must have a quality dive light and a 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. You must also be able to dive at night. If you are not feeling secure, you should leave immediately. 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. It is important to avoid using substances that could impair your ability to discern the truth.
Choosing a dive site
You will need to find a calm, shallow night dive spot when you are ready to go night diving. Do not complicate your first dive by carrying extra gear or going deeper than normal. You will feel more comfortable and have a better night dive. You can start out by diving in the twilight and go deep later on.
Do your research to find the best night diving site. There are many aspects that you will need to consider. If you're new to night diving, make sure you pick a site that has had a lot of success at night diving. You can use the day to locate and map the dive sites. It's also warmer and easier to dry off your equipment during the day.
Night diving buddies
The choice of a night diver buddy can be challenging. The water changes quickly when the sun goes down, and you need to move slowly to avoid hitting objects. The water is also colder than during the day, so a night diver must be extra warm. The last thing anyone wants is to feel cold, which can make the dive unpleasant and uncomfortable.
Discuss your dive plan with your night buddy before you dive in the darkness. This includes the order you wish to complete the dive. Additionally, you should discuss how and when you will communicate.