In Deep Water: Scuba Diving Uncovered

(froy). Submitted on Wed, 1 Feb 2012

Nature documentaries have long showcased the appeal of the underwater world – imagine gliding alongside turtles, drifting amongst shoals of tropical fish, getting within feet of a leopard shark or even a humpback whale. Though snorkelling allows a glimpse of what lies beneath the ocean, most of these incredible experiences are only possible due to one thing: scuba diving.



The two main scuba diving bodies providing certification courses are PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) and SSI (Scuba Schools International). The entry level diving certification is an open water course, taught by a host of diving schools around the world.

An open water course involves both practical and theory lessons. Courses usually to range from three to five days, typically with one morning and/or afternoon dive each day, lectures or video sessions and a couple of hours of independent studying each night. It depends on the individual dive school, but for open water courses there are normally one to four students per dive instructor.

After explaining the basics – including hand signals and safety issues – an instructor will run through the equipment; the main components comprising of a wetsuit, fins, buoyancy control device (generally referred to as a BCD), diving tank, regulator, mask and weight belt. Divers take to the water with a ‘buddy’ who looks out for them and can share their air should any unexpected situations occur underwater. So, buddy pairings will be established and each pairing will go through the stages and practise together.

The first lesson in water will take place in a swimming pool or the shallows of the sea, depending on the dive school. Exercises should include taking the mask off underwater and sharing air with a buddy – so that any emergency situations can be dealt with smoothly. Most people find that breathing underwater for the first time feels unnatural, but this usually subsides with time. Once the basics are mastered, the next dives will be out at sea, taking a big step off the boat (or backward roll off a smaller boat) before slowly descending to a maximum depth of 18 metres. These dives will not only allow students to get to grips with the practicalities, but hopefully also provide the chance to see an amazing variety of marine life. Floating and swimming exercises must also be completed, and some scuba diving bodies also set a final paper theory test. And then that’s it!

Once open water certification is obtained, a whole host of other courses are on offer, from adventure diving (including deep diving and wreck diving) all the way to becoming an instructor.

So where to learn? Thailand is a popular and budget-friendly place to learn to dive, with a multitude of dive schools. The island of Koh Tao attracts thousands of travellers every year, all with the same intention – to come away certified as an open water diver. As gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns in Australia is another favourite spot to learn to dive. Egypt’s Red Sea resorts and the clear waters off the coast of Malta and Gozo are other good options to consider.

Diving courses don’t have to be done from land either. Liveaboard trips in places such as Thailand’s Similan Islands or the Maldives offer a chance to reach some of the best dive sites and learn as much as possible. Or for the chance to enjoy total relaxation after a diving course, Caribbean and Mauritius holidays are ideal.

 

About the Author

Fiona Roy writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

Rating: Not yet rated

Comments

No comments posted.