Night diving offers a unique way to see a different underwater world. Night diving is a different underwater world, as many marine mammals are nocturnal. You will need to be prepared for this unique diving environment. 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.
Many marine life uses bioluminescence to attract mates and 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.
Precautions
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. 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. Night diving is more challenging without a partner. Your buddy will be able to help you identify potential subjects. Practice hand signals with your partner prior to you go on the dive. Also, make sure your buddy knows how to use the light correctly. For example, it is best to not shine the light directly at subjects but rather aim it at their hands.
Equipment
If you're planning a night dive, you need some special equipment. First, ensure you have backup lights. This type of light is usually small enough to carry in your pocket. A modeling light is a pinpoint-light attached to a flasher. 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. Also, you will need to be able to communicate with other divers. Also, you will need to learn how to use your diving equipment's gauges. Finally, you should feel comfortable diving at night. You should not dive if you aren't feeling safe. It doesn't matter whether the cause is poor training, bad weather, water conditions, or anything else, if you don't feel safe, you could find yourself in a dangerous spot. Avoid substances that affect your ability to judge.
How to choose a dive spot
Night diving is best done at night. It's not a good idea to add more gear or take a camera on your first dive. Your first night dive can be made easier by sticking to the basics. You can start out by diving in the twilight and go deep later on.
You will need to research in order to choose the best night dive location. There are many things you should consider. 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 map the dive site during the day and get oriented. It's also easier to dry equipment and it is warmer.
Choosing a night dive buddy
It can be difficult to choose a night diving buddy. The water changes quickly when the sun goes down, and you need to move slowly to avoid hitting objects. Even though the water is colder at night, it should be warmer. It is not something anyone wants to feel uncomfortable or make the dive difficult.
Discuss your dive plan with your night buddy before you dive in the darkness. You should also discuss the order you would like to complete your dive. You should also discuss how you will communicate, including using hand signals and light signals.