Scuba Diving Equipment » Surface Of The Water

The Dolphin Dive For Certified Scuba Divers

admin — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 11:41:20 +0000

One of the all time favorite marine animals for many is the dolphin. Previously, the closest one can ever get to a dolphin is at the various marine theme parks like Sea World. Then a few dolphin research centers started petting dolphins and swim with dolphins programs which allowed more direct interactions with these wonderful creatures. For certified scuba divers, direct interaction with dolphins under the water is possible. This is an even better experience than the swim with dolphins programs which keep guests only on the surface of the water. This unique under the water opportunity is available through UNEXSO’s dolphin dive at Freeport, Grand Bahama Island.

The UNEXSO dolphin dive is a single tank trip only available on certain days and fills up quickly so it is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance. The divemasters suggest that all divers add on an additional two pounds to what they normally use on their weight belt. This is because the majority of time spent during the dolphin dive will be kneeling on an open sandy surface at the bottom of a chosen dive site. After all divers are onboard, the dive boat goes to the dolphin facility minutes away where the dolphins stay. Once there, a dolphin trainer at the facility gives a briefing about the specifics of the dolphin dive as well as dolphins in general. Two dolphins are pre-selected for each dolphin dive. After the briefing, both the dive boat and a second boat carrying two dolphin trainers head out to the dive site with two dolphins following. During the trip out to the dive site, the two dolphins ride the wakes of the boats and make numerous leaps out of the water along the way giving lots of photo opportunities.

Once at the dive site, the divers are instructed to get in the water quickly and head to the bottom which is about 50 feet. The request for the rush is to get the interactions going before the dolphins lose interest. It is emphasized that the dolphins are never forced to interact with the divers and are free to swim off anytime they want. Therefore, interactions with the dolphins are never guaranteed by UNEXSO. Luckily for the divers, the dolphins seem to enjoy interactions with humans as well as the free food. Once at the bottom, the dolphin trainers now in scuba diving gear, direct the divers to space out in a wide circle. The trainers, equipped with a bucket full of food, are in the center of this circle. This is where they direct the various types of interactions that the divers will get to experience with the dolphins.

The first interaction is usually having a dolphin rest in front of each diver. This is when the divers are allowed to touch and stroke the dolphins while avoiding their fins, eyes and blow hole. The second interaction involves a dolphin kiss. Divers are instructed to take their regulators out of their mouths upon a signal given by the trainers. The trainers then point towards each diver. The dolphins would approach each diver and ‘kiss’ each one in the mouth with their snout. A third type of interaction is like a human spinning top. One at a time, the divers are asked to adjust their buoyancy and stay up about five feet off the bottom with arms fully outstretched. The dolphins then push each diver by the hand with their snouts spinning them around in circles. All of these interactions are captured on camera by a UNEXSO staff divemaster. Of course, the photos are available for sale back at the UNEXSO dive shop. At the end of the final interaction, both dolphins make one more pass while waving one of their fins to bid each diver goodbye. Of course, the divers wave back with smiles through their regulators.

What is really unique with the dolphin dive is that scuba divers get to see the dolphins at depth rather than just at the surface of the water. This is in the natural environment of the dolphins. It is really magical to watch from the bottom as the dolphins swim up to the surface for air sometimes leaping right out of the water followed by a dramatic diving re-entry. They move like torpedoes with grace, agility and speed. The divers can’t help but marvel at the abilities of the dolphins. Dolphins do not require gradual ascents and safety stops like us scuba divers do. For any scuba diver who loves dolphins, the UNEXSO dolphin dive is a wonderful diving experience and well recommended.

By: Clint Leung

Scuba Diving – Scuba Diving in Costa Maya

admin — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 15:49:08 +0000

Costa Maya is home to some of the best scuba diving to be enjoyed anywhere in the world and is, as of yet, virtually undiscovered and unexplored by tourists. In fact, many of the scuba diving spots to be found in Costa Maya are just now being named. Popular dive spots are secluded, pristine, and not accustomed to visitors of the human variety, which makes for great scuba diving. Here you can experience Mexico’s ocean life at its finest and most natural.

Costa Maya located between the Mexico Riviera, on the north, and the Belize border, to the south. It is an extremely laid back community with small fishing villages making up the bulk of civilization. Simple accommodations combined with open-air dining provide visitors with the sensation of leaving the real world and stepping back in time to enjoy nature at its peak of perfection.

The majority of scuba diving in Costa Maya takes place along a reef that is protected by the Mexican government. This 25 mile tract of reef makes up part of the second largest coral reef in the world and was established as a National Park in 1996. It is home to an abundance of natural resources and exotic coral beauty. In addition to viewing awe-inspiring and diverse wildlife, divers to this area also frequent many of the caves and wrecks to be found in the waters surrounding Costa Maya.

The tract of reef that can be accessed by scuba diving in Costa Maya is actually two reefs that run parallel to the coast of Costa Maya. The first reef starts off at the surface of the water and gradually slopes down to 50 feet before turning into a sandy platform. At the end of the sandy platform, the second reef starts at 50 feet below the surface and then slopes gradually until it meets a dramatic, vertical drop off.

The marine life, that can be found by divers while scuba diving in Costa Maya, is indeed worth the government’s protection. Here divers are delighted by the antics of diverse marine life such as sponges, gorgonians, star corals, crabs, octopus, moray eels, turtles, and eagle rays. Scuba diving the vertical wall also reveals huge sponges, overhangs of stony coral and numerous caves fit for exploration.

On select days, you may also be able to hire a dive operation to take you out on a boat to enjoy a scuba diving excursion to the Chinchorro Bank. This bank is nearly 19 miles from the mainland of Costa Maya and is a large coral atoll that is home to several wrecks and lush coral reefs.

The protected nature of the reef of Costa Maya ensures that you will be able to experience a magical underwater environment at its most pristine. The lack of public attention in this area has ensured that the park has remained virtually untouched and, in some places, unseen by man. All which makes for a scuba diving experience of a lifetime.

By: Layla Tusko

A Guide to Night Diving

admin — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:35:39 +0000

Scuba diving is currently one of the most popular aquatic activities. It is a great activity for anyone who wants to be united with nature. It also opens a totally new perspective on how we view ourselves in relation to our surroundings.

The opportunity to dive under water is also a very invigorating activity. Since it is a different world, it seems like all of your problems are solved once you get to see the teeming life under the blue façade of the seas.

The nature below the surface of the water changes as the sun says its goodbye and as the moon starts to glow. Actually, most advanced divers would prefer to go on a night dive rather than a day dive. Why? Because at night, the sea is totally transformed and there are things underwater that you can only see at night. It’s like seeing all the high-rise buildings illuminate the happy streets of a city.

The beautiful scenery at night is something to look forward to. It is when all the nocturnal creatures become alive, giving the seas a different glow and color. Groups of minute organisms also reflect the light from the moon and create an effect that can’t be recreated by any natural or artificial means. The seas really come alive at night.

However, you should remember that night diving is only for experienced divers. It is most definitely not a walk in the park. The normal risks that a diver exposes himself to during day dives are enhanced at night. The darkness of the night also poses additional risks that aren’t present during the day.

We shall try to discuss some of the things that a diver must remember before night diving. If you are a beginner, you will want to read on so as to give youself some basic ideas on how to properly prepare and execute a night dive.

1. Rest well and eat well

Diving at night is physically more imposing than day dives. The coldness of the water will give a diver more stress plus the fact that the natural body clock is signaling the body to settle down and rest. Make sure that you have enough carbohydrates in your body to keep your body temperature stable under water. Carbo-loading can be done 2 days before you enter the water.

2. Orient yourself with the diving area

Aside from visiting the diving area beforehand, you can also opt to do a day dive on the same spot where you will be diving at night. This move lowers the risk of being lost at night and will give you more mobility because you are comfortable with the area.

3. Always have a night dive buddy

Perhaps the most important tip that you should remember is that you should never ever dive at night without a companion. Even if it’s not night time, you should also have someone to dive with you. Your diving buddy is your only hope against the wrath of the seas if something goes wrong. And, having a buddy will also make the experience more meaningful.

4. Get the right dive light

Essential equipment for night diving is a dive light. When choosing a dive light, you should consider the burn time, the beam width and the depth rating of the dive light. In terms of burn time, you should make sure that you fully recharge your battery if you are using a rechargeable one or bring extra disposable ones if you are using those.

Your maximum depth should also be lower than the rating of your light.

5. Get some glow sticks

Glow sticks are very useful underwater. You should attach some glow sticks to your air tank, or perhaps wrap them around your legs and arms so that you and your buddy can clearly see each other.

6. Know the rules

You can’t go around diving at night anywhere you want. Make sure that you inquire about the local regulations about diving at night.

Nothing beats diving at night. With the proper preparation and precautions, you should have nothing to fear and will look forward to seeing the majestic night seas.

By: Ollie Donovan

How to Buy Scuba Gear

admin — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 17:24:07 +0000

Scuba diving is a wonderful sport and with the right equipment it can prove to be one of the most fulfilling experiences. Here is what you need to know about your scuba equipment.

What gear will you need when diving?

When you first start out there are five items you will need for basic scuba diving and training.

Scuba Mask: Perhaps this is the most important of them all. This is the mask that will let you see the wonders of the under water world. When buying a scuba mask it is very important to try a wide variety on. Try different makes, different shapes and sizes, not every mask will fit every person so it’s important to find the one that will fit you best as the mask also provides a seal against water entering your eyes.

Scuba Booties: These boot like shoes will be your best friend when walking along rough surfaces or slippery rocks. These boots are designed to protect the feet from rough surfaces. They have a non-slip grip on the bottom to assist with walking on slippery surfaces such as rocks.

Swim Fins: These shoes allow you to experience the water as other water creatures do. Fins allow you to propel yourself through the water in fluid movements with less effort. Scuba equipment can be heavy and awkward at times so having the fins allows you to move easier and more efficiently in that water. There are a variety of swim fins to choose from. There are fins that are webbed like a ducks’ feet, there are fins that are shaped more like the fin of a dolphin. Make sure to try on a variety of fins to choose one that fits well and will suit your needs.

Scuba weights and belt: This is essential as the weights and belt are what allows you to stay underwater. These come in a variety of makes so trying a few out to get the one that feels best for you would be idea.

Snorkel: This will allow you to enjoy the view from the surface of the water without using your regulator. Using the snorkel while on the surface either before or after a dive will help to conserve the air in the tank and also as a safety mechanism. The rule of thumb is to always have one of the two in your mouth at all times. Either the snorkel or the regulator will help should be caught up in a wave. Either of these devices will allow you to breath.

Always remember when looking to buy your very first scuba equipment, this is one sport that buying second hand is not a good idea and can actually pose to be dangerous. Scuba diving is not cheap but the reward you will get on your first dive will make it worth every penny. The key to a successful dive is successful equipment. Shop at reputable stores where the owner or employees have a strong knowledge in scuba diving. Bring along a friend who may be a seasoned scuba diver or an instructor who may be willing to assist you in your shopping endeavour.

Never buy scuba equipment online as most of the equipment requires you to try ti on. It is essential that you feel completely comfortable in your gear as you will be descending many feet underwater and that is not the time to be uncomfortable.

Remember as you shop for your scuba equipment to be cautious and know what you need before you go. Having a clear understanding of the sport and what is needed will ensure that you have the best experience possible.

By: Jamie Senic

Finding a Scuba Diving Shop

admin — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 14:57:39 +0000

Scuba diving is one of the best ways to see the beauty of nature. You will get to see the vastness of the ocean and the various species of plant and animal life that is impossible to find on land.

Some people are content to go snorkeling on the surface of the water. But those who love to see it up close and personal have to go deeper and this can only be done by using the proper equipment.

The equipment needed here will be a wetsuit, an octopus, a buoyancy vest, fins, goggles and an oxygen tank.. While it is true that the diver can rent this equipment at the resort, those who do this often prefer to get a customized set that can be bought at the scuba diving shop.

Some of these shops can be found in the mall while there are free standing shops located near the beach. Most of these establishments are certified by the various diving schools and the sales clerks who are working there are licensed divers.

Upon entering the diving shop, it will be a good idea to see the various brands that are available. Since wetsuits come in different sizes, it will be a good idea to try a few on but if the customer doesn’t like the fit, it is also possible to have one made custom fit to one’s body.

The sales clerk will just have to get the measurements so the request can be made and finished in about a week.

As for the other gear, the customer will just have to check each of these out and then just buy the one that is the most comfortable to use.

You don’t have to buy one if the price is too expensive. You can also check out other outlets in the area or wait till they go on sale to be able to get some good bargains.

Another way to check on the available models before going into the scuba diving shop will be to subscribe or to buy a magazine. It usually features the different gadgets being used comparing one with the other making sure you get the best equipment to be able to enjoy the beautiful sights underwater.

It isn’t that hard to buy the right equipment. The challenging part for you will be to find the right diving shop to go that can offer these at reasonable prices.

By: Ollie Donovan