Night diving is a way to experience a completely different underwater world. Because many marine animals are nocturnal, the underwater environment changes at night. Preparing yourself to dive in this unique environment is key. Learn more about what equipment you will need and how you can choose a diving site.
Bioluminescence
Bioluminescence can be experienced during night dives by simply turning off your torch and waving in the water. As you move your arms in the water, bioluminescent plankton lights up blue. This happens when certain chemicals are vibrated and produce light.
Many marine life uses bioluminescence to attract mates and 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 Care
If you have never dived at Night before, you need to be careful. These precautions include avoiding exposure to excessive light, and avoiding the use of dive lights. These lights may damage the night vision of other divers. Exposed to these lights could increase your risk of having cardiac irregularities.
Not only should you limit your light exposure but also must you use a buddy partner. A dive partner is extra important when night diving. A buddy can help you identify potential subjects. Before you dive with your buddy, make sure you practice hand signals. Your buddy should be able to correctly use the light. Avoid shining the light directly on subjects. Instead, aim it at their 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 will also need a modeling lamp, which is a light that is attached to a flashlight. 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.
You will also need a quality diving light and a compass. Also, you will need to be able 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. You should immediately get out if you feel unsafe. 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. Avoid substances that affect your ability to judge.
Selecting a dive site
If you want to dive at night, it is important to choose a site that is calm and shallow. It's not a good idea to add more gear or take a camera on your first dive. Staying true to the basics will make your first night dive easy and enjoyable. You can dive in the twilight or go deeper later.
You will need to research in order to choose the best night dive location. There are many factors to consider when choosing a night dive site. If you've never done night diving before, you'll want to choose a site that has a good history of diving at night. 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.
Choose a night diving 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. The last thing anyone wants is to feel cold, which can make the dive unpleasant and uncomfortable.
Before diving in the dark, discuss your dive plan and any special instructions with your night dive buddy. This includes the order in which you want to complete the dive. It is also important to discuss how you will communicate. This includes using hand signals and light signs.