Night diving is a way to experience a completely 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
By turning off your scuba torch, you can enjoy the wonders and beauty of bioluminescence while night diving. Simply wave your arms in the water and turn your scuba torch off. Bioluminescent plankton will light up blue as you move your arms around the water. This happens when certain chemicals are vibrated and produce light.
Many marine species use bioluminescence for communication and to attract mates. Syllid fireworms for example live under the seafloor in mucus tube and then return to the surface when the full moon is over.
Take Care
If you've never scuba dived at night, there are some precautions you should follow. These precautions include not being exposed to too much light and not using dive lights. These lights can cause night vision problems for other divers. Additionally, exposing yourself to these lights may increase your risk of cardiac irregularities.
Not only should you limit your light exposure but also must you use a buddy partner. Night diving is more challenging without a partner. Your buddy can help identify potential subjects. Before you dive, be sure to practice hand signals together. You should also make sure your buddy understands how to use the flashlight correctly. For instance, you should avoid shining light directly on subjects, but instead, aim it at the subjects' hands.
Equipment
Night dives require special equipment. First, ensure you have backup lights. This type of light is usually small enough to carry 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.
You will also need a quality diving light and a compass. Additionally, you need a light capable of allowing you to communicate and share information with other divers. You also need to know how to use your diving rig's gauges. You should also feel comfortable diving at nights. If you are not feeling secure, you should leave immediately. 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. You should also avoid substances that can impair your judgement.
How to choose a dive spot
You will need to find a calm, shallow night dive spot when you are ready to go night diving. Don't complicate your first night dive with extra gear, a camera or deeper diving than you are used to. Staying true to the basics will make your first night dive easy and enjoyable. You can begin by diving at night and move deeper later.
It is important to do your research before you decide on the night dive site. There are a number of factors that you'll need to take into account. You should choose a site with a history of night diving if you have never done it before. During the day, you can easily map out the dive site and get oriented. It's also easier to dry equipment and it is warmer.
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. Night diving is required to be more comfortable in the water. A cold dive can make the experience unpleasant and even painful.
Your night dive buddy should discuss your dive plan and any special requirements before you go. This should include the order that you will complete the dive. Additionally, you should discuss how and when you will communicate.