Night diving offers a unique way to see a different underwater world. Because many marine animals are nocturnal, the underwater environment changes at night. To experience this special diving environment, you will need to prepare yourself for the experience. Before you get started, learn about the equipment you'll need and how to choose a dive site.
Bioluminescence
If you are looking for the magic of bioluminescence, you can try night diving by turning off the torch on your scuba gear and waving your arms into the water. As you move your arms in the water, bioluminescent plankton lights up blue. This is caused by certain chemicals being vibrated to produce light.
Bioluminescence can be used by marine life to attract mates or communicate with each other. Syllid fireworms, for example, live below the seafloor in mucus tubes. They then head up to the surface at the full moon.
Take precautions
If you have never dived at Night before, you need to be careful. These precautions include not being exposed to too much light and not using dive lights. These lights can affect the night vision of other divers. Exposure to these lights can also increase your risk for developing cardiac problems.
In addition to limiting your light exposure, you must also use a buddy team. A dive partner is extra important when night diving. You will have a buddy who can help you spot potential subjects. Before you dive, be sure to practice hand signals together. Also, make sure your buddy knows how to use the light correctly. You should not shine light directly onto subjects. Instead, aim the light at their hands.
Equipment
If you're planning a night dive, you need some special equipment. Make sure you have backup lighting. These lights are small enough to be carried 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.
A compass and a good dive light are also essential. You will also need a light that gives you the ability to 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 the right dive site
When you're ready to dive at night, you'll need to choose a night dive site that's calm and shallow. You don't want your first dive to be complicated by having new gear, carrying a DSLR, or diving deeper than usual. Sticking to the basics will help you get comfortable and make your first night dive a success. You can begin by diving at night and move deeper later.
To choose the right night dive site, you'll want to do your research. There are many factors to consider when choosing a night dive site. 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. During the day, you can easily map out the dive site and get oriented. It is also easier to dry your equipment in the heat of the day.
Choosing a night dive buddy
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. Night divers should also be prepared for cold water. 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 the order you wish to complete the dive. Talk about how you will communicate.