Scuba Diving
11 tips that will make you a scuba diving pro
When glorified snorkelling just won't cut it, use these expert tips to take your scuba diving to greater depths.
Scuba diving is one of the most mesmerising adventure pursuits out there. But just how do you make the most of it?
Marine biologist Dr John Reuben, who's racked up over 500 hours of scuba diving in expeditions across the world, has the answers.
1. Stop your mask fogging
If your mask is new, rub toothpaste on the inside to reduce fogging. If the mask isn’t new, spit on the inside to reduce fogging and improve clarity of vision underwater. You don't want to miss a lesser-spotted sea creature.
2. Watch your hair
If you have long hair, make sure you tie it up before you dive. Loose hair can get trapped under your mask, which breaks the seal and causes it to leak.
3. Avoid sunscreen
Avoid wearing sunscreen when you’re diving. Sunscreen can be toxic and highly damaging to coral reefs. Instead use a rash vest and a hood to protect your skin from the sun.
4. Clear your ears
Get your ears cleaned or syringed with the doctor before you go. If your ears are clear it will help you to equalise and have an easier descent. Pressure equalisation is one of the biggest problems people have when they dive and you don’t want to risk getting a perforated ear drum.
5. Do your homework
Researching your dive will keep you safe and boost confidence in the deep
© Getty Images
Diving can be dangerous, so you’ll be at ease if you’re sure your instructor knows their way around. Plus, the more experienced they are, the higher the chances of them being able to take you to the hot spots where the best marine life is. Only go with reputable dive companies with experienced divemasters who are familiar with the local conditions and dive sites.
6. Buoyancy control
Always perform a buoyancy check at the surface, at the start of the dive. If you struggle with buoyancy throughout the dive, it will be a miserable experience. I always give myself a big hug underwater. Not only is it great to feel so loved, but it also squeezes out any residual air in my BCD (buoyancy compensator), thus improving buoyancy control.
7. Horizontal, not vertical
Remain horizontal underwater to reduce drag and improve finning efficiency. This will ensure that you propel yourself forwards not upwards and will help save energy and reduce air consumption.
8. Find support
I recommend Divers Alert Network (DAN), a global organisation that not only insures divers but also provide a diving accident hotline, emergency medical evacuation, and resources such as seminars that can help you to brush up on your diving skills. Responsible divers are always insured.
9. Hand signals
Giving yourself a hug squeezes out any residual air
© Getty Images
You can’t talk underwater so being able to communicate is vital – whether it’s to point out something remarkable, or to say how much air you have left. Practise hand signals so you can communicate more efficiently underwater. Refresh your memory before you dive.
10. Buddy up
Scuba diving with Cabo Adventures
© Cabo Adventures
Diving isn’t a sport for the lone ranger – you’re much safer with a partner to keep an eye on each other. It’ll most likely keep you out of harm's way and also increase your chances of not missing anything. Remain within a couple of metres of your buddy at all times underwater.
11. Relax
Slow down and relax. Enjoy the experience of diving and focus on steady breathing. This reduces air consumption and improves the chances of seeing something cool. Flustered divers scare off marine life and are less likely to appreciate the beauty of ocean ecosystems.