Night diving offers a unique way to see a different underwater world. It is nighttime underwater, so many marine creatures are nocturnal. You will need to be prepared for this unique diving environment. Learn about the equipment and how to choose the right dive site before you start.
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 phenomenon is caused when certain chemicals react with vibration to generate light.
Many marine species use bioluminescence for communication and to attract mates. Syllid fireworms, which live in mucus tubes under the seafloor and return to the surface on the full moon, are an example.
Be aware
If you've never dived at night before, there are several precautions that you must follow. Avoid excessive light exposure and avoid using dive lights. These lights could cause night vision issues for other divers. These lights can also cause cardiac irregularities.
A buddy team is essential for you to avoid excessive light exposure. A dive partner is extra important when night diving. 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 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. Make sure you have backup lighting. This type of light can be easily carried in your pocket. Also, you should have a modeling flashlight. This is a pinpoint light that attaches to a strobe. Diving used to use chemical glow sticks in the past to help them find their way back to their boat. However, environmental concerns have forced the switch to battery-operated signals lights with different colored lenses.
Secondly, you must have a quality dive light and a compass. Additionally, you need a light capable of allowing you to communicate and share information with other divers. Additionally, you must be familiar with the functions of your diving rig's gauges. You must also be able to dive at night. If you are not feeling secure, you should leave immediately. 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.
Choose a dive location
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. 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 you need to 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 use the day to locate and map the dive sites. It's also easier to dry equipment and it is warmer.
Night diving buddies
Choosing a night dive buddy can be a challenge. The water changes quickly after sunset, so you must slow down to avoid hitting anything. Night diving is required to be more comfortable in the water. It is not something anyone wants to feel uncomfortable or make the dive difficult.
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. You should also discuss how you will communicate, including using hand signals and light signals.