Night diving allows you to dive in a different underwater environment. The underwater environment is different during the night, and many marine animals are nocturnal. 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
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 can be used by marine life to attract mates or communicate with each other. Syllid fireworms for example live under the seafloor in mucus tube and then return to the surface when the full moon is over.
Be aware
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. Exposure to these lights can also increase your risk for developing cardiac problems.
Not only should you limit your light exposure but also must you use a buddy partner. When night diving, a buddy partner is essential. Your buddy will be able to help you identify potential subjects. Before you dive with your buddy, make sure you practice hand signals. Make sure that your buddy is familiar with how to use the light. Avoid shining the light directly on subjects. Instead, aim it at their hands.
Equipment
Night dives require special equipment. First, ensure you have backup lights. This type of light can be easily carried 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.
A compass and a good dive light are also essential. 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. Finally, you should feel 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. Avoid substances that affect your ability to judge.
How to choose a dive spot
Choose a night dive location that is shallow and calm when you are ready for night diving. 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. Start out in the twilight, and you can 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. You'll need to look for a site where night diving has been done before. You can use the day to locate and map the dive sites. You can also dry your equipment more quickly and warmer during the day.
Night dive buddy
The choice of a night diver buddy can be challenging. You need to be careful not to hit objects or change the water speed when it goes dark. Even though the water is colder at night, it should be warmer. 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 how you plan to complete the dive. You should also discuss how you will communicate, including using hand signals and light signals.