Night diving offers a unique way to see a different underwater world. The underwater environment is different during the night, and many marine animals are nocturnal. You will need to be prepared for this unique diving environment. Learn more about what equipment you will need and how you can choose a diving 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. Bioluminescent plankton will light up blue as you move your arms around the water. This phenomenon is caused when certain chemicals react with vibration to generate light.
Bioluminescence is used by many marine animals to communicate with one another and attract mates. Syllid fireworms, for example, live below the seafloor in mucus tubes. They then head up to the surface at the full moon.
Take care
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 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. Partner will help you to identify potential subjects. Before you dive, practice hand signals with your buddy. Be sure to teach your buddy how to properly use the light. For instance, you should avoid shining light directly on subjects, but instead, aim it at the subjects' hands.
Equipment
You will need special equipment if you plan to do a night dive. Make sure you have backup lighting. This type light is small enough that you can carry it in your pocket. You should also have a modeling light, which is a pinpoint light attached to a strobe. 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.
The second is a quality dive light, and a compasse. Additionally, you need a light capable of allowing you to communicate and share information with other divers. It is also important to be able to read and use the gauges on your diving rig. You should also feel comfortable diving at nights. You should immediately get out if you feel unsafe. You may find yourself in a dangerous place, whether it's because of lack of training or bad weather conditions. You should also avoid substances that can impair your judgement.
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. Don't complicate your first night dive with extra gear, a camera or deeper diving than you are used to. Sticking to the basics will help you get comfortable and make your first night dive a success. Start by diving in the dark and then move on to deeper water.
To choose the right night dive site, you'll want to do your research. 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. It's easier and warmer to dry your equipment during the day.
Choose a night diving buddy
It can be hard to find a night-diving buddy. You must be cautious when diving at night as the water changes very quickly. Also, the water is more cold than normal during the day so night divers must be warm. Feeling cold is something that no one wants. This can make diving unpleasant and uncomfortable.
Your night dive buddy should discuss your dive plan and any special requirements before you go. This includes the order you wish to complete the dive. Also, discuss how you will communicate with each other using light signals and hand signals.