Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

The Citizen Dive Watch

2009-01-22T20:18:00.001-06:00

Keeping track of the time is very crucial for someone who is seriously into diving. Citizen Dive watches would be the perfect choice for any diver as they have special features that any standard waterproof watch wouldn’t have. These features include easy read dials, increased resistance to pressure and added protection from salt water to avoid deterioration.

A dive watch is important in ensuring a safe return to the surface for any diver as it keeps track of diving activity. But you can also have a dive watch that is not primarily just for diving but one that is stylish to wear and useful when having a good swimming competition with others. Citizen Dive watches has huge range of watches in all styles and will be the perfect choice for all occasions.

Preferable Features

In terms of style and quality, you are certainly headed in the right direction if you have your eye on any citizen diving watch. But before deciding on your next Citizen dive watch, there are some important things to take into consideration.

First, you need to know how deep you want to go. Many of the Citizen diving watches start out waterproof when diving up to 200 meters. This is exceptional for scuba diving as long as helium gas isn’t a requirement. In helium enriched environment, 300 meters should be considered instead which is also supported in many Citizen Dive models.

The entire range of Citizen diving watches have that common easy to read bevel, which is important for clear readability underwater when accurate timing is needed of the diver’s time underwater. But each Citizen Dive watch has its own specific style. Some models have a non-reflective crystal face to allow for perfect clarity when being glanced at and this includes the Citizen Promaster SST.

Taking a glance at the time every now and then is also crucial to avoid being submerged underwater for too long. For racing purposes as well, accurate watches are needed and the Citizen Promaster SST is perfect for this with its chronograph accurate to 1/1000th of a second and still allows for 24 hour timing. For more serious divers, advanced Citizen Dive watches are also capable of keeping track of the number of dives.

Preferable Styles

There is wide range of watches, from luxury looking ones to the more sporty ones, available in the Citizen diving watch range. If you want a watch just for diving and standard wearing purposes then you can choose from the selection of lower end Citizen Dive watches that are available. But you can try the Citizen Promaster SST if you are going for a more professional look as its combination of analog and digital elements along with its stainless steel bracelet giving it an appealing look. This model has one downside in the sense that it may not be as rugged as other models but it makes up for that by saving you a great deal when special occasions happen as you won’t have to change watches.

All in all, the Citizen Dive Promaster SST is the perfect choice if you want a watch that has a great balance of features and excellent accuracy in tracking time. But this does not mean that the other Citizen Dive watches are inferior as they will perform the necessary functions needed by divers when diving. Only Citizen Dive watches have the combined element of durability, style, accuracy and versatility and every diver is recommended to acquire one.

Scuba Diving in Hawaii- A Scuba Divers Dream

2008-12-29T10:23:00.001-06:00

Scuba Diving In Hawaii

Scuba diving is one of the foremost fun things one could do in Hawaii. Believe it or not, there are various diving companies, diving sites in and around Hawaii. All you have to do is open yourself up to the possibilities of fun and diving adventure.

What does it mean to be one of the best dive spots? This means the place has a diverse collection of plant and animal life. The person can also see some species of fish that aren't found anywhere else in the world. This all begins by booking a flight to this tiny little island and then making arrangements with the resorts to go diving. Those who are licensed can hire a boat while those who aren't yet certified can enroll in a basic course.

Most resorts are certified by SSI, NADI or PADI so the person can be assured of the quality of education provided by the dive master. The individual can even rent the gear, which isn't that expensive so there isn't as much gear to carry from the mainland to the island. Since most of the hotels are nestled by the beach, after getting the equipment, you can hit the water.

Of course, there are other places worth seeing such as the Molokini Marine Reserve that is an island volcano located a few miles from Maui. A boat can be charted to head off to this distant island or others to be able to catch a dolphin, an eel or even a sea turtle. Those who want to try something different can even engage in night diving. Holding a flare in the hand, you may get to see some animals sleeping peacefully which is impossible to do during the daytime.

The rates for diving vary at each resort. The customer can check online or have the travel agent make the inquiry when planning the details for the trip. When everything is set, the only thing to do is pick the equipment from the dive shop and then go down into the ocean to take a glimpse of the beauty from the deep.

All in all, there are many Hawaii diving sites to choose from. It all depends on your preference and need. It is a guarantee though that scuba diving anywhere in Hawaii is an activity that is unforgettably fun.

More info on scuba diving can be found here Underwater Scuba Diving as well as here Scuba Diving Holiday

Finding The Right Scuba Diving Resorts

2008-12-28T08:20:00.001-06:00

There are wonders in the world that can only be explored underwater. As such, one has to take extra lengths to be able to see these magnificent creations. Scuba diving is the most effective means for an individual to enjoy these wonders.

Scuba diving is a hobby for some people. To a few, it can even entail a lifestyle. However, there are sill lots of people out there who see this as a very extraordinary event that can only happen once in a blue moon. There are still people who are overwhelmed by the idea. They immediately think of the expenses and difficulties without even trying.

How to Find the Right Scuba Diving Resorts?

If you think you are still clueless when it comes to finding the perfect resort, here are some tips and points to consider.

Scuba diving resorts can easily be inquired in your nearest travel agency. However, if you aren't satisfied, you can do your own search. The internet is a good place to check out various locations of the diving resorts. You can view pictures and read comments of other people.

After searching the market for some offers, you may wonder that the destinations will actually vary. Not all scuba diving resorts will bring you to an ocean as diving can be done in various places. Scuba diving can be done in bodies of water like seas, lakes, rivers, oceans, and even in springs.

Scuba diving packages allow people to enjoy the benefits of scuba without worrying about a single detail. Just go there and everything will be taken care of. To beginners, finding a scuba diving package can definitely help in making sure that you are assisted throughout the way and supplied with everything needed. To the hobbyist, the package can allow him or her to explore new places at a fixed or reduced prices.

The scuba diving activity is good for your body, senses and your soul. So give your time and effort to find the perfect diving resort to satisfy your expectations.

Find more information on scuba diving go to Snorkeling Gear and also visit Scuba Diving Package

Tips for Scuba Diving Vacations

2008-12-25T14:23:00.001-06:00

Scuba Diving In Hawaii Video

Perhaps you have already decided to take on your first ever scuba diving travel adventure and like any first-timer you are thrilled to the bone. However, it could also be predicted that you don't actually know what to expect. Scuba diving vacations are much more complicated than your normal excursion. Thus it is important to know certain essential matters before you go on your diving trip.

The primary consideration for you scuba diving vacation is the destination. You need to choose a good diving spot whose features are appropriate for your diving skills, budget, time, and preference. For ideas, consult a travel agent who is knowledgeable about diving. You may also check with a diving center for diving sites that will match your diving level. The internet is also a good source of worldwide information about such matters.

When planning your scuba diving travel adventure you shouldn't leave out the non-diving aspects of your trip. Sure you are excited about going underwater, but there are many good sights to see on dry land, and you wouldn't want to miss them as well. Remember to have the right balance of wet and dry activities for your adventure.

Make a checklist of the things you need for the vacation from your flights to your scuba diving gear. If you are going on an international trip, be sure to arrange other important details such as your visa, vaccinations (if needed), currencies, and other matters. Research every detail of your vacation so you don't go empty-handed. Knowing about everything will decrease the likelihood of problems happening during the trip.

Here are some important reminders for your scuba diving travel adventure:

1. Set your travel dates, but be flexible with them.
2. Shop for scuba diving travel packages that can save you money and effort.
3. Write your name and contact information on your scuba diving gear and mark it well for easy identification.
4. Get diving and travel insurance.
5. Have your important documents copied, keep one for yourself and another for somebody you trust at home.
6. Don't forget your medicines and their prescriptions.
7. Bring with you the essential scuba gear as carry on luggage.
8. Check with your airline about restrictions regarding scuba diving equipment.

With careful planning, you can ensure your enjoyment for your scuba diving vacation. Enjoy!

Get more ideas on scuba diving visit Scuba Diving Club as well as Scuba Diving Clubs

What One Should Know About Diving Vacation Basics

2008-10-18T23:12:00.002-05:00

Scuba Diving Vacation

Once you and your family have decided to take a diving vacation, there are a few things you should do to make sure that your planning effectively. Learning the basics of scuba diving and getting your body prepared for diving are among the key things you'll need to do before your vacation, but don't forget to get ready to have fun! Here are some diving vacation tips:

Swim as often as you can. Whether you're in your pool in the backyard, at the health club, or training at school, be sure to practice swimming so that you will know how to get around underwater quickly. While your vacation is supposed to be a fun time, you will need to know how to get out of harm's way naturally, so swimming practice is definitely a good idea. Getting comfortable with the way you move in the water is also ideal when you're trying to learn to scuba. You may also want to swim underwater with your scuba gear so that you can get used to wearing the gear when you're underwater in a larger body of water.

Get the best diving gear. Try not to wait until the last minute to get the scuba equipment that you need - shop around at your local sporting goods stores for diving gear and wet suits well before it is time for you to go on your trip. This way, you can try the equipment out before taking a trip and finding defect. You can also shop online for diving vacation items, so be sure to check out Ebay and Nextag for great deals daily.

Take diving classes, as many as you need to in order to be ready. When going on a diving vacation, it is essential to have scuba diving lessons, but don't be afraid to take more than one lesson. You will want to enjoy your diving vacation, and you will not enjoy yourself if you are always concerned with whether you are doing things right. It normally takes around two months to complete the full scuba diving training course to be a qualified scuba diver, so you should keep practicing until you are totally comfortable with scuba diving.

Figure out what type of diving you want to do. Taking the basic scuba diving lessons is essential, but you may want to broaden your interests so you can find out just what you want to do on your diving vacation. For instance, if wreck diving interests you, then try to get enrolled in some courses that will teach you how to dive through wrecked ships and artifacts to find treasure. If you're into technical diving, take a course or two that teaches you to hold your breath for long periods of time and swim with precision. And, if free diving is more your speed, learning how to play hockey or rugby underwater may be your idea of a great diving vacation.

The Right Equipment Needed to Start Snorkeling

2008-10-12T20:07:00.003-05:00

The Right Equipment for Snorkeling

To fully enjoy snorkeling, one must have the right kind of snorkeling equipment. Snorkeling is a water activity that encourages the swimmer to glide just at the surface of the water facing down. The swimmer has the opportunity to see the underwater world right before his very eyes with the aid of the right snorkeling equipment. These are the basic snorkeling gear for most swimmers. Other kinds of snorkeling equipment may be needed if you are not such a strong swimmer or you have other intentions other than snorkeling in mind.Image via Wikipedia

The Mask

The mask is a safety device and an important snorkeling equipment. The mask covers the majority of the snorkelers face. It is to this mask that the snorkel is attached. The mask also provides protection for the snorkeler with a comfortable view of under water life. Sea water can sting your eyes, which is one of the primary reasons why the mask covers the eyes. This snorkeling equipment also protects the nose and eyes from the water by covering them.

The Snorkel(Breathing tube)

This snorkeling equipment is the basis for the activity's name. The snorkel is a tube with some strategically placed angles to allow the breathing apparatus' attachment to the face mask and the mouthpiece that the snorkeler puts in the mouth. This snorkeling equipment helps the swimmer to breathe while looking downwards at the underwater scenery. The snorkel position is important. The mouthpiece should be positioned to allow the snorkel to point upwards, while in the swimmers mouth. A snorkel facing downward might allow water to get in and interfere with the proper breathing of the swimmer.

There are more innovative snorkels that claim to be able to prevent water from getting in the tube while allowing the swimmer to breathe in air. There are a few complications that can happen using this snorkeling equipment, which is why divers still prefer the basic kind of snorkel.

The Flippers

This snorkeling equipment is not required for snorkeling but they can actually add to a swimmer's maneuverability as well as speed when in the ocean. The propulsion that the flippers add to the snorkeler is necessary when in rough waters, if stuck in a current or trying to avoid threats.

These pieces of snorkeling equipment are the basics that one needs to start snorkeling. Remember, always have your safety in mind when snorkeling and do not get overwhelmed with the amazing views that you see.

Learn To Scuba Dive

2008-10-07T06:01:00.002-05:00

August has been an exciting month for scubadiving enthusiasts. With the finding of Blackbeard's flagship off the coast of North Carolina, the USS Grunion off the coast of Alaska and an underwater city near Japan, now is a better time than ever to learn to scuba dive.

You may have heard that scubadiving is a billion dollar industry or that the startup cost is significantly expensive. However, most divers will compare the cost of scubadiving to ski resorts or golf courses.

If you're gung-ho about getting into the sport, you could easily spend $1,500 - $3,000 on diving equipment and an additional $450 when you learn to scuba dive via certification. Yet people just starting out can get away with a little $69 - $100 course at a resort, to experience the sport first and then deciding if learning how to scuba dive is really for them.

Your imagination is the limit when it comes to deciding where to take your lessons. For example, Sunrise Divers in Thailand offers a three-day, beginner, PADI-certified course plus two beach dives, two boat dives and a group lesson for $295.

Intermediates can take a three-day rescue diver course in Egypt for $332.

More advanced divers may want to spend four weeks in Honduras taking the PADI-certified divemaster course, where they'll learn to become instructors and underwater tour guides.

Five days all-inclusive at Australia's Barrier Reef could set you back $562, but any seasoned diver will tell you it's well worth it. Once you learn to scuba dive, you will never really forget. Once certified, you may want to add an $80, three-hour refresher course onto your Mexico vacation.

Sometimes people need to learn scuba diving for work. Other times people enjoy scubadiving for the sense of freedom and serenity they feel beneath the surface. Either way, you'll want proper scuba dive certification so that you aren't the one left sitting behind when the next major underwater discovery occurs.

For more information about learning to scuba dive and finding great deals on scuba gear, visit the Scuba Diving Site.

Scuba Dive Training Courses and Prerequisites

2008-09-26T18:16:00.002-05:00

Scuba diving has been around for over forty years and was first developed and used by the Navy and oceanographers. It has recently grown into a sport among many people. Before you jump in scuba dive training courses are a necessity and certification is required.

Scuba Diving has grown to such an extent that even beach resorts have started offering scuba diving lessons, as well as equipment rentals and certified trainers to accompany untrained noobie divers who just want to try it out.

Scuba diving clubs and other organizations offer lessons in scuba diving in an effort to expand the growing popularity of this sport. On a more professional level, some of these organizations even offer advanced scuba lessons which allow trained scuba divers to expand their repertoire and go diving in conditions and environments which are otherwise restricted to other divers who don't possess the training to handle them. Here are some of the prerequisites for diving, as well as some of the advanced scuba courses that experienced divers can take.

Prerequisites: any and every scuba diver must have skills in swimming, obviously. Aside from this, however, a scuba diver must have had training and experience in snorkeling, which forms the basis for some of the techniques used in scuba diving. If you want to take up scuba diving as a sport but don't know how to snorkel yet, then take up snorkeling first before taking a course in scuba.

General Scuba Certification: This is a scuba dive training class that introduces you to the basics of scuba diving. It is usually a 4 to 6 week course and classes are held in a swimming pool. The last 2 classes will be in the ocean where you will be tested. For most people who plan on just a few recreational dives a year this is adequate.

Open Water Scuba Dive Training: This is for the diver who plans to deep water dive off a boat several miles from shore. It is necessary to know how to operate a boat. Special equipment is another necessity for deep water dives you will be educated as to what equipment is needed and how and why it is used.

Rescue Scuba: this is a special training course that focuses on rescue operations for other divers. Those who usually take it are employed in the search-and-rescue business. Training includes first aid, obviously, as well as underwater techniques for getting people out of hazardous situations like underwater caves. There is also training in the use of specialized equipment used in such rescues.

Scuba Dive Training for Deep Dives: Deep diving is an extreme sport that requires specialized training and special equipment. Underwater exploration is one reason to go to such depths where the water pressure could crush a person not wearing the proper gear.

Hazardous Area Scuba: this type of training specializes in teaching scuba divers advanced forms of safety in scuba diving. The diving skills required per se don't differ too much from the levels of skill involved in regular scuba, but additional training is given for allowing a diver to explore hazardous area that are usually restricted to regular divers. Some examples of hazard areas include shipwrecks, coral reefs infested with toxic life forms, shark infested waters, and underwater caves. While not for the regular hobbyist, some of the more serious scuba divers take this up for thrills.

Get more information on scuba diving visit Scuba Diving Holiday

Scuba Diving Holiday

2008-09-23T23:16:00.002-05:00

Scuba Diving Video

Family vacations are special times, especially when taking a scuba diving holiday. More and more, families are planning great adventures such as this and while they realize a scuba diving holiday needs close planning, it is worth all the effort. The key is to pay attention to detail, especially if planning to venture to another country for scuba diving.

Perhaps most important to a scuba diving holiday is your destination. You obviously want to go somewhere, where you can dive, a place that fits your skill level, budget, time and preferences. You have to achieve a good balance between these factors, and a good travel agent who knows a great deal about diving and dive sites may be able to help you .

Of course, while a travel agent can help, another possibility is to talk to a diving shop. Typically, the professionals can look at what you want out of the scuba diving holiday and make appropriate recommendations.

Since your focal is to go scuba diving, you want to make that your primary focus but you should also consider other adventures you could do while on land. Typically, destinations for diving are exotic and surrounded by natural beauty, which means you can take in gorgeous views along the way.

During the planning phase, we suggest you make a list of everything that you will need to take specific to diving equipment and in accordance with your certification. Now, if you plan to go out of state, then of course you would also need to have your Visa intact, make sure you have any needed vaccinations, understand local currency, and so forth.

Doing research on each of these aspects of the trip will make things go much smoother. The good news is that finding information about diving is a breeze using the internet. In fact, everything you could possibly need to know so you have an incredible trip is available online.

Some of the specific considerations you need to look at include those below that we have pulled together for you.

* Look at the various options for the right scuba diving package so you save money and have a wonderful holiday * Establish the date for travel and if possible, be a little flexible, which could also save you money * Travel insurance that includes scuba diving is a great option to think about * Label all of your personal diving gear so it can be easily identified * Contact the airlines you plan to fly to learn about any limitations or restrictions regarding your diving equipment * Copy all your documents, leaving one copy at home with someone trusted and keeping a second copy with you on the trip * Take any medication needed with you, along with a note from the doctor

Obviously, you want your scuba diving holiday to be something special, a time to remember. Once a person experiences the wonders under the ocean, there is no turning back.

Find out more about scuba diving visit Scuba Diving At Night

Night Diving - An Ultimate Scuba Diving Experience

2008-06-24T10:57:00.003-05:00

Night diving will give you a different perspective on scuba diving. 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 facade 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.

Here are some basic ideas on how to properly prepare and execute a night dive.

1. Be physically fit and rested

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. Know the are you are diving in

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. Buddy system

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. Make sure to use the right 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.

Night Diving Requires Primary, Marker, and Backup Lights

Divers-Supply Tip: Dive lights are not just for remaining safe while night diving. They can be used for cave diving, wreck diving, peering into holes, or illuminating the brilliance of reef fish. Consider different styles of dive lights ...

5. 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 local regulations concerning night diving

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.

Scuba Diving Tips - How to Breathe

2008-06-16T09:52:00.001-05:00

Breathing is easy, isn't it? We do it all the time. Good air in, bad air out. Simple, and easy, right? Well, in scuba diving, breathing properly serves three major purposes, and missing out on knowing how to breathe properly can lead to a messed up dive.

Why should your learn a different way to breathe for diving? Well, the technique that will be given here isn't just for diving, it's meant to increase the efficiency at which your body processes oxygen in general, and will benefit every aspect of your life that requires physical activity.

First off, proper breathing helps you to control your buoyancy. If your scuba instructor tells you to hold your breath while adjusting your regulator to control your dive depth, you'll quickly wind up blue in the face. Definitely not a pleasant experience. Instead of holding your breath and relying on the weights and regulator to adjust buoyancy, breathing properly can cause subtle shifts in your flotation.

Secondly, proper breathing on a dive extends your air time. The breathing technique given here helps the body process more oxygen, sending it to the body with greater efficiency and maximizing the amount of oxygen that gets introduced into the blood stream. You won't use your air up as quickly, and can extend your time underwater.

Lastly, proper breathing combined with good control over your descent and ascent rate helps to minimize decompression sickness, which is a problem that hits divers when the sudden changes in external pressure on the body trigger collections of air pockets in the blood stream, heart, and sinuses. Those little air pockets cause a condition that divers refer to as The Bends, which can be anything from merely painful and annoying, to outright fatal by leading to a stroke or brain damage.

That said and done, let's get into the actual breathing method to use.

Speaking from personal experience, the breathing technique that should be employed in diving are related to that used by martial artists, singers, yoga practitioners, and gymnasts. This is a method called diaphragm breathing, and goes by many different fancy names depending on which discipline is using it, like in martial arts where it is referred to as Ki or Chi Breathing.

To practice diaphragm breathing, either stand or sit up straight (your choice), and just breathe in. Don't slouch. Observe how you take the air in. Most people will have their chests expand when they take a breath. This is normal, regular lung breathing. In diaphragm breathing, the lower stomach expands instead of the chest.

To do this properly, the biggest key is to relax. Your abdominal muscles will actually instinctively tighten up when you take a breath and try to focus on your gut. Don't focus on your gut, just relax and breath in, but make a point of actually relaxing your navel area when you inhale. Most people get diaphragm breathing wrong because they tense up the muscles in their gut in an effort to send their breath there. Tensing up these muscles actually causes them to contract, which keeps air from going that deeply. That's all there is to this form of breathing, really. It's simple, once you get the hang of it.

It's also important to keep your breathing rhythm deep, slow, and even when you're practising this method, inhaling as far as you can go, holding the air in your lungs for just a few seconds, then exhaling the air slowly and evenly. Shallow, rapid breathing, as most medical practitioners know, is a very, very bad thing, which leads to asphyxiation, a state where not enough oxygen gets cycled through the body.

By the way, the air, of course, isn't really going into your stomach. It just expands because the diaphragm is positioned right above it in the body. Basic anatomy lesson here: the diaphragm is a membrane which controls the expansion of the lungs, which causes the inhalation and exhalation of air. Basically, what this form of breathing achieves is to strengthen your diaphragm itself, as well as increasing the capacity of your lungs. Keep practicing this method until it becomes automatic and natural, and you'll be surprised at the results. Not just in your scuba diving, but in your overall physical condition.

Scuba Diving off the Coast of North Carolina

2008-05-12T15:16:00.003-05:00

My scuba dives involve the crystal clear warm waters of the Carribean. Sorry I've just never been more adventurous than that. Seems I've been missing out on a lot of great scuba diving in the Atlantic waters off the coast of North Carolina in particular. Visibility is not too bad at up to 100 feet. The cool thing is all those shipwrecks from weather and war. Apparently most of the popular dives are between 80 and 125 feet.

I think it would be very interesting to dive to view a sunk German U-boat. Never had the opportunity but this article below gave me the thought that it might be worth pursuing one day.

Scuba Diving in the Graveyard Of The Atlantic

When lovers of the sea think of diving in the Western Hemisphere, they think anything north of Florida will likely involve cold water, low visibility, and little to see. That's because many people haven't tried North Carolina's ...

The Enjoyment of Scuba Diving at Night

2008-05-05T08:54:00.006-05:00

Scuba diving at night can be amazing. Of course some of you end up diving in lakes where you are thinking what's the big deal. Can't see anything under there anyway. ha! Anyway, scuba diving at night can be a load of fun. Want an adventure: Strap on your scuba diving gear for a night dive.

The nature below the surface of the water changes at night. Many 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.

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.

However, you should remember that night diving is only for experienced divers. The normal risks that a diver exposes himself to during day dives are heightened at night. The darkness of the night also poses additional risks that aren't present during the day.

The following are some tips to consider if you are going on a night dive:

1. Rest Up and Eat Before Going

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. Know the Area You Are Diving IN

Diving at night is no time to discover a new 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. Take a 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 a Good 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. Great Idea: 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 Where to Dive

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

Scuba diving at night is amazing. With the proper preparation and precautions, you can enjoy the underwater world from another perspective.

Learning How to Scuba Dive | Non -Compresion Dives

2008-05-02T10:04:00.004-05:00

Strapping on your scuba diving gear and descending down into the underwater world is one of the best feelings in the world. It is so quiet and surreal below the surface. When you get down to the depths of the ocean it is amazing to see all the marine life swimming by to check you out.

Anybody can learn to scuba dive. If you know how to swim enough to go about 200 yards you can get certified in scuba. If you aren't that hard core about getting certified you can go to resorts and get a resort scuba certification. These are always fun. They usually only take about a half a day. Granted you won't be able to dive deeper than around 40 feet for safety reasons, but you will still get to go below and see the reefs and marine life fairly easily. These resort certifications last a few days and are not mean to be any type of permanent certification.

These type of dives are called non compression dives. You wear a mask, fins, air tank and regulator. If you are beginning to learn to scuba dive it is a great way to determine if you really want to pursue the recreation. Scuba diving can be costly with the travel and scuba diving equipment so these smaller dives are a great way to determine if you have the interest.

The resort personnel will train you first in the pool typically. This is the first time you might feel like you are getting claustrophobic. Being underwater is one thing, but also putting on a mask can make some people feel uneasy. Once you train in the a pool with your scuba diving gear you move out to the shallow open water. You do the same thing that you did in the pool to train for bigger dives.

Typically resorts will load you up on a boat and take you to their local shallow water dive spot. You put on your scuba diving equipment and you drop in and get about 30 minutes swimming around under the guidance of the instructor. You will feel an exhilaration that you've never felt before. It is truly an amzing experience to scuba dive.