Night diving is a way to experience a completely different underwater world. The underwater environment is different during the night, and many marine animals are nocturnal. To experience this special diving environment, you will need to prepare yourself for the experience. Learn about the equipment and how to choose the right dive site before you start.
Bioluminescence
When you turn off your scuba flashlight and wave your arms in water, you can witness the wonders of night diving bioluminescence. When you move your arms about the water, bioluminescent plantton will turn blue. This happens when certain chemicals are vibrated and produce light.
Bioluminescence is used to communicate and attract mates in marine life. Syllid fireworms for example live under the seafloor in mucus tube and then return to the surface when the full moon is over.
Take care
There are several precautions you should take if you have never dived at night. These precautions include avoiding excessive light and avoiding using dive lights. These lights can cause night vision problems for other divers. These lights can also cause cardiac irregularities.
A buddy team is essential for you to avoid excessive light exposure. When night diving, a buddy partner is essential. Your buddy will be able to 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. You should not shine light directly onto subjects. Instead, aim the light at their hands.
Equipment
Night dives require special equipment. First, ensure you have backup lights. These lights are small enough to be carried in your pocket. You will also need a modeling lamp, which is a light that is attached to a flashlight. Diving used to use chemical glow sticks in the past to help them find their way back to their boat. However, environmental concerns have forced the switch to battery-operated signals lights with different colored lenses.
The second is a quality dive light, and a compasse. It is important that you have a light that can communicate with other divers. You also need to know how to use your diving rig's gauges. It is important that you feel safe diving at night. If you don't feel safe, you should pull out right away. It doesn't matter if it is bad weather, lack of training, or unsafe water conditions. You might end up in a dangerous position. Avoid substances that affect your ability to judge.
Selecting a dive site
You will need to find a calm, shallow night dive spot when you are ready to go night diving. It's not a good idea to add more gear or take a camera on your first dive. It will be easier to get comfortable, and your first night dive will go well. Start out in the twilight, and you can go deeper later.
Research is key to choosing the right night dive spot. 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. 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
Choosing a night dive buddy can be a challenge. 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. A cold dive can make the experience unpleasant and even painful.
Your night dive buddy should discuss your dive plan and any special requirements before you go. 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.