James Hunt asked:


Scuba diving is an exciting and exhilarating hobby that allows you to view an underworld life most won’t ever see firsthand. When you are diving, you are given an intimate show of what life looks like below the water line. But, it takes a certain type of person to be able to go scuba diving because it is dangerous. Not only do you have to worry about losing oxygen, but what about the threat of underwater creatures?
Sharks and eels are probably the two creatures that strike fear into the hearts of most people when they think about scuba diving. But, actual attacks are very rare and your chances of getting killed or hurt are slim. Still though, you do have to think about what would happen if you were diving and came face to face with an angry shark. Your wet suit wouldn’t do anything to protect you against those teeth. So, think about that long and hard before you jump off that boat next time.
Though it is a scary thought, perhaps that’s the appeal for many scuba diving fanatics. Not only do you get to see the amazing underwater life, but you are also in a constant state of threat that something could go wrong at any minute. But, diving isn’t the only hobby that’s fraught with danger, think about rock climbing, bungee jumping and white water rafting. People love these activities for the thrill and the high they get. So, scuba diving probably isn’t any different and you get the added bonus of seeing vibrantly colored fish and exotic sea creatures as well.
Before you set off to go scuba diving, make sure you’ve been well trained. Take a class from a professional so you will know exactly what to do and when to do it. It’s always good to learn this way so you’ll know what to do in case of an emergency as well. Buy a quality wetsuit and other diving essentials and you’ll be a diving pro in no time!

Peter Hansson asked:


If you are planning to venture into the world of scuba diving, one thing you should definitely not do is be unprepared. Contrary to popular belief, scuba diving is not just about diving deep underwater in order to see the wonders of the sea. Scuba diving is something that requires much knowledge before it is put into action. Therefore, it would be best if you endow yourself with the proper tips and guidelines in diving before venturing into the deep. As with the proper tips and guidelines in scuba diving, you should equip yourself with the basic knowledge of scuba equipment. Scuba equipment is very important in scuba diving, inasmuch as breathing is vital to your existence - a diver cannot survive without it.

Scuba Equipment for Breathing

Otherwise known as the Rebreather, the Aqualung is the most important item you must have in your scuba equipment. Without it, breathing underwater is not even possible. If there’s one thing you should know, that’s the danger of scuba diving. Without equipping yourself with the proper breathing machine for underwater, you are in great danger. Therefore, you must not take risks. Be sure that you have this most important scuba diving item in your scuba equipment. After all, scuba diving is not scuba diving without an aqualung.

Scuba Equipment for Alternative Breathing

Though right now the Aqualung is the most widely used scuba equipment in breathing, there are other scuba tools you can use for underwater breathing. The most recent innovation is the liquid breathing system. Although not completely developed yet, the liquid breathing system can prove to be an innovative integration to the experience that is scuba diving. With liquid breathing system, divers can dive to totally deeper pits of the water, hence, allowing a more unique and fun diving experience. If you are not planning to dive too deep under the sea, then you can go for the simple but effective snorkel which allows you to breathe in oxygen from above the surface of the water.

Scuba Equipment for Water Movement

Scuba diving is not scuba diving if you are constantly restraining yourself while moving underwater. If you really want a scuba diving experience that is exhilarating and fulfilling, then you ought to have the appropriate scuba equipment for underwater movement. First in the list is the scuba diving dress. Make sure that your scuba diving dress does not let water seep in and, at the same time, does not restrain your bodily movement. Make sure that, in picking your scuba diving dress, you never compromise quality with the price. If you do, you are henceforth putting your own safety and enjoyment in the line. Fins are also a simple but most important factor in your scuba equipment. This allows you to project your movements underwater. If your scuba fins are too small or too large, it will definitely show when you are already diving underwater. It can either exaggerate or hold back your feet while you are swimming. These are both instances you will want to avoid, so you better pick the best scuba fins.

Scuba Equipment for Water Navigation

What could be worse than knowing that you are lost underwater? This can be a painful situation for you, which is exactly why you better include the important tools in water navigation in your scuba equipment. Such includes the underwater compass. Definitely, it is harder to have a sense of direction underwater than in land, so you better be sure that you have an underwater compass in your scuba equipment, lest you be lost underwater. Also a must in your scuba equipment is a depth gauge, which will tell you exactly how deep from the surface level you are.

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Michelle Bery asked:


Scuba diving, like any other skilled activity, must be learned before it can be mastered. So, for those who have a desire to take to the ocean in scuba gear, choosing from among scuba diving classes is an inevitable part of the process. Finding reputable scuba diving classes will ensure that you receive the skills you need to begin your journey in scuba.

The beauty of scuba diving classes is that they can be found anywhere - from small towns to big cities - and do not require proximity to the ocean. As a matter of fact, most scuba diving classes are taught in a pool facility, giving instructors the benefit of a controlled environment in which to teach the basics of scuba. And for a scuba novice, a pool environment is much less intimidating than the ocean, especially when you are just learning how to operate with the variety of scuba gear you must don to dive.

First and foremost in your quest to find scuba diving classes is to ascertain the reputation of classes offered closest to you. It is imperative that you receive lessons from certified instructors who have experience with training - not just participating in - scuba diving. Ask around to find people who have taken scuba diving classes from particular instructors and facilities to narrow down your search. There are actual scuba schools that exist but be sure to check public pool facilities where instructors periodically visit to give scuba diving classes.

In most cases, you can visit the facility, and actually participate in a trial class - at no charge - to determine if it’s the appropriate environment for your particular needs. More often than not, you will begin with comprehensive classroom instruction before even entering the pool.

Additionally, most reputable scuba diving classes will offer equipment for use during lessons. This can be helpful if you have not yet fully committed yourself enough to scuba diving to purchase the expensive equipment.

The most important thing you should receive from scuba diving classes is confidence. It should be a comfortable, well-paced learning environment where you feel that all of your questions are thoroughly answered and where safety is of the utmost concern. Before you know it, you’ll be well on your way to exploring the many mysteries beneath the ocean.

Michelle Bery asked:


In today’s world, where ordinary citizens and adrenalin-junkies alike are equally capable of chasing adventure, we turn to lessons to make sure we have the appropriate skills. We have lessons for golf, tennis, dance, and any other activity or hobby that can summoned to mind. But for those activities that come with risk, lessons become even more important. Subsequently, those who are interested in scuba diving should always begin with comprehensive scuba diving lessons.

If you are in good health, you can scuba dive. And with proper scuba diving lessons you can do so safely to ensure you get the most enjoyment out of your experience as possible. Finding scuba diving lessons is relatively easy, as scuba diving continues to rise in popularity. Luckily, the availability of lessons does not in any way depend on your proximity to the ocean. Scuba diving lessons are taught in indoor pools which gives the instructor maximum control and eliminates the variables that can easily arise in open water. For students, scuba diving lessons should be confidence building and the best way to achieve this confidence is by mastering your technique in a confined and controlled environment.

In most cases, however, scuba diving lessons actually begin with comprehensive classroom instruction where students are given the basics of the scuba diving technique. Only when the instructor is comfortable that all students completely understand scuba techniques - and the reasons behind them - will you enter the pool. In some cases, equipment can also be rented for scuba diving lessons - an enormous benefit for those who are delaying the purchase of pricey equipment until they receive scuba certification.

Pool instruction during scuba diving lessons offer students the opportunity to put those classroom lessons into use, practicing techniques over and over until they are comfortable. It is essential that these systems are mastered; scuba diving can be dangerous if not done properly and with full respect of the equipment and the water.

There are scuba diving lessons that are offered for children and adults separately. Be sure to research any instructors or instruction facilities to ensure that they are reputable and experienced in training.

Upon successful completion of your scuba diving lessons you will be certified for scuba diving; and you will be well on your way to enjoying a lifetime of adventure and exploration.

Scubaworld asked:


Thailand has one of the world’s most diverse marine habitats, with more than 300 major reef groups covering an area of over 4,500 square miles. From pinnacles and submerged rocks, through to stunning coral gardens and sheer walls, the scuba diving in Thailand has something to offer scuba divers of all levels of experience. It is this diversity in marine habitats and diving environments which attracts so many divers to the waters around Thailand every year, and today the region is one of the world’s most popular scuba diving destinations.

There are a number of major diving destinations in Thailand, all offering a wide selection of diverse dive sites. Throughout all of these major destinations is a network of well equipped, knowledgeable and experienced dive centres, offering a range of diving from leisure dives through to a selection of scuba diving courses.

It would be impossible to discuss Thailand, without looking at the scuba diving in Phuket and the surrounding areas. Without doubt, the diving in Phuket is of the highest standard, and the waters surrounding the ‘island’ host a number of excellent dive sites. However, the real underwater treasures of Phuket lie slightly further afield. Dive sites such as the Burma Banks, The Similan Islands and the Mergui Archipelago are often found high on the wish list of many discerning scuba diver and offer some of South East Asia’s finest dive sites.

The scuba diving on the Western Gulf of Thailand sees a different emphasis, and the small islands found here have become one of the world’s most popular areas to learn to scuba dive. In fact, the island of Koh Tao has developed a complete tourist industry from scuba diving, and today large numbers of would be scuba divers travel to Koh Tao every day to begin their diving education. Other islands within the Western Gulf of Thailand are also home to developed scuba diving industries, and destinations such as Koh Samui and Ko Pha-Ngan are both home to a large number of dive centres and excellent dive sites.

Throughout Thailand there are a number of exceptional dive sites, and sites such as the Richelieu Rock and Chumpon Pinnacle are widely acknowledged as being world class dive sites. However it is the sheer volume of excellent dive sites that makes Thailand such a popular destination. Destinations such as Pattaya, Krabi, Ko Chang and the Surin Islands are all home to a number of exceptional dive sites and dive centres.

Today, Thailand is one of the world’s most popular scuba diving destinations, and large numbers of scuba divers travel long distances to dive in the waters surrounding this stunning country. The sheer diversity of the diving on offer here ensures that there is something to cater for all tastes and levels of experience. From vertical wrecks, through to submerged pinnacles, from the largest sharks, through to the smallest nudibranches, the diving in Thailand has something for everyone.

Dane Stanton asked:


It is highly imperative and in the best interest of the person wishing to go scuba diving to achieve proper certification because this is a very dangerous sport and should be approached with caution and a passion to learn. There are literally thousands of certification approved schools that can help you in achieving this necessary tool before you dive in, literally! Lets take a look at some of the avenues that you could seek scuba diving certification from before you plan the ultimate scuba diving adventure.

Who Certifies Scuba Divers?

There are hundreds of centers throughout the world including in vacation hot spots that have a program that can provide you with the necessary training to get you cerified as well as several conventional methods. They typically offer the very latest teaching in technology and diving techniques and are PADI approved.

When speaking and researching these certifications you will undoubtedly come across an agency called PADI and some should be mentioned about this organization because they are one responsible for governing laws and latest technologies that surround these training centers. PADI governs all of the training centers throughout the United States and the basic reason that they are there is to govern the facilities and ensure that they are teaching safe diving practices as well as using equipment that is up to date.

It is a tightly controlled industry due to the potential for harm that is present so scuba diving certification is not only necessary; it is an extremely helpful tool for your personal safety. If you are currently looking to get certified it would be wise for you to ensure that the agency you take your certification from is governed by PADI if you are in the United States and elsewhere, ensure they are a governed body for your own protection.

It is reassuring to know that if you are inquiring about getting scuba diving certification in the United States that most of the establishments are governed under PADI and in fact have more state of the art equipment and techniques than most developed countries. Also, it is imperative to note that if you are getting scuba diving certification for a potential career in this field, many scuba diving training centers offer job placement as part of the scuba diving certification program.

If you plan on obtaining a certification then following these key principles is a must. Make sure you write then down before going for your certificate.

Michelle Bery asked:


Clearly, being many feet under water for an extended period of time is not something humans were designed to do. But the art of scuba diving has opened up the possibilities - allowing us to journey where we were previously unable to explore. Of course, the reason that scuba diving is successful on this front is because of the scuba diving equipment that renders us physically able to stay underwater.

Scuba diving can be an amazing experience and one - for obvious reasons - that many find themselves addicted to after just the first time. But diving safely depends not only on the skill of the diver, but on the dependability and proper use of extensive scuba diving equipment.

The first layer of scuba diving equipment is that which covers the diver. The wetsuit, made of a thin layer of synthetic rubber and lined with nylon, forms a protective barrier between the diver and the water. The diver’s skin is kept completely dry and the material of the wetsuit actually traps body heat against the skin guarding against hypothermia. It is important, for this reason, that the wetsuit be as snug as possible against the diver’s body. In addition to the wetsuit, the scuba diver also wears flippers as part of their scuba diving equipment that allows them to maneuver effortlessly through the water.

Of course, the scuba diving equipment that most people associate with scuba is the oxygen tank. The oxygen tank is the most essential piece of scuba diving equipment as it allows the diver to stay underwater for extended periods of time. The oxygen tank is carried on the back of the diver; its size depends on the length and time of the dive. Most tanks also include equipment that allows the divers to closely monitor the amount of oxygen they have left so that they can resurface safely.

The facemask - another piece of scuba diving equipment - is placed over the mouth, nose, and eyes of the diver. Oxygen is pumped into the mask allowing the diver to breathe. The mask also enables the diver to see underwater without obstruction.

Scuba instruction of any kind will include comprehensive lessons on the safe and effective use of scuba diving equipment. It is imperative that scuba divers - beginners and veterans alike - use their scuba diving equipment respectfully and in complete accordance with operating instructions. Using these safety measures will ensure that you have an enjoyable - and memorable - scuba experience.

Dianne Rein asked:


So you are thinking about getting your scuba diving certification but aren’t sure what it entails? We’ll go through the details here.

Scuba diving is a wonderful sport and you will be able to enjoy it for many years to come. There’s nothing like floating effortlessly underwater and seeing all the beautiful fish, coral, wrecks, etc. Certification will open up a whole new world for you.

First, let’s start with the basics. What exactly is scuba diving certification?

In order to go scuba diving with any reputable dive shop, you must have a certification card (more commonly known as a c-card). You obtain this card by taking and passing a dive certification course. Once you pass this course, you receive your c-card and you are good to go.

The two main certification agencies are PADI and NAUI. Other agencies, such as YMCA and SSI, also offer scuba diving certification but NAUI and PADI are the most widely recognized.

The dive shop (or other entity) that you take your training from will be affiliated with one of these agencies. That is who you will receive your card from.

The most common scuba diving certification for recreational divers is the open water diver. Once you finish this course and pass the tests and dives, you receive your c-card. Once you receive your card, you are certified for life. There is no other mandatory training. There is other optional training you can do, but nothing more is required before you can start diving.

What are the requirements for taking a certification course?

As far as age goes, for PADI you must be 10 or older to take the course. Students younger than 15 will receive the PADI Junior Open Water Diver certification. It can then be upgraded to PADI Open Water Diver certification upon reaching 15. For Naui, you must be 12 or older to take the course.

Basically you should be in good physical shape and be comfortable in the water. A clearance from your doctor would be a good idea if you have any doubts.

During the course you will have to be able to swim 200 yards. However, you can use any stroke and there is no time limit on how long it takes. You also have to tread water or float for 10 minutes. Again, you can use any methods you want.

The course itself can be broken into 4 major segments:

1. Book work

2. Exams

3. Pool training

4. Open water dives

The amount of time it takes to get our scuba diving certification depends on what avenue you take. There are intensive weekend courses where you can do all your book work and pool work in one weekend. This option usually involves advance reading. I think this could be a bit overwhelming if you have no prior experience but many people opt for this route.

At the opposite end are the options where you meet over the course of several weeks to do your book and pool work. This is the option I chose. The class met once a week for 6 weeks. The first part of the night involved the classroom (about 1 1/4 hours) followed by pool work (about 1 1/2 hours).

A recent introduction are the on-line certification courses which allows you to do the book portion of your scuba diving certification from anywhere.

You get a referral to do your open water dives after you successfully complete the book and pool work. Your open water dives are usually done in a lake, quarry or ocean. You typically do these dives over the course of 2 days. Certification usually requires 4 or 5 successful open water dives. You also have to do your open water dives within a certain amount of time of receiving your referral.

During your open water dives, you will perform the skills you learned in class for the instructor. This involves such skills as clearing your mask, buddy breathing, etc. Once you successfully pass the open water dives, you will receive your c-card.

As far as the cost of certification, prices for the course and pool work portion can range anywhere from around $150 to several hundred. I think $200-$250 is probably about average. If you take book portion online through PADI, the course currently costs $120 (you still have to pay for your in water training and open water dive portions).

Adding in the cost of your open water dives, the total cost of dive certification will probably be about $350-$450.

Hopefully I have answered most of your questions about getting certified. Give it a try, you won’t regret it!

Dianne Rein asked:

It’s simple to take care of your dive mask with some basic maintenance tips. And once you are underwater, there’s not much more annoying than a mask that constantly fogs up. Follow these simple steps for mask care and defogging so your mask will last you for many more dives.

Scuba Dive Mask Maintenance

Many times, new dive masks have an oily film over the surface. What works best to remove this? Good ‘ol toothpaste! Put a small drop on the lens and rub it over the areas that have this residue on them. This would also include the strap. Thoroughly rinse the mask in fresh water and reinspect to make sure it is clean. Repeat if necessary.

Just make sure it is not a gel toothpaste. I have always used plain Crest for this (and to clean my dive slate) with no ill effects. Removing this film will stop the mask from fogging.

Maintenance of your scuba dive mask is straightforward. No rocket science here. Here are some simple steps to follow:

Rinse your mask in freshwater after diving. You need to clean out any sand or grit that may have gotten into the mask and get rid of any salty residue.

Never dry your mask in direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can start to degrade the silicone so keep the mask out of the sun.

Thoroughly dry mask before storing. You don’t want anything to start growing on your mask. Not to mention possible odors.

Periodically clean your scuba dive mask. You should clean your mask with a little bit of toothpaste every now and then. It will help clean the lens and will also help keep it from fogging (see below). Rinse well after using the toothpaste and you are good to go.

Place you mask face-up. Don’t put your mask face down when you are not wearing it. The lens could get scratched - which could drive you nuts on every dive!

Mask Defogging Tips

There are basically 3 different ways to keep your scuba dive mask from fogging while you are diving. I have used all 3 while diving and all 3 are effective. I probably use the mask defogger solution the most.

Saliva - Yup, good ol’ spit. It really does work. I usually dry and put in on my mask when it is dry. Rinse out after rubbing it around your mask. Some people get queasy, bacteria, etc. But we’ve done it and no harm has come to us! GOOD in a pinch.

Prepared Solution - You can buy a commercial mask defogger solution at any dive shop for a few dollars. They last a long time and do work. Just put a couple drops on your lenses and rub it around. Rinse it out thoroughly, you don’t want to get solution in your eyes. Be prepared to share with lots of other divers on the boat. There is always someone that ran out, forgot, etc. You’ll be the hero.

Toothpaste - If the above 2 don’t work, it may need a more thorough cleaning with toothpaste as described above (non-gel). This should solve any problem with fogging that you have.

If you follow these simple scuba mask care and maintenance tips, you should have a nice clear dive. With proper care, your scuba diving mask should last for years and many, many dives. Have fun!

Mike Walker asked:

There are a number of important facts about scuba diving that you need to know. The first one is that you need to have a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus. These high pressure tanks that are strapped to the back of the diver, provide air to the diver that is regulated through a breathing device. This lets the diver go very deep in the water without worrying about coming up for oxygen.

Next of the facts about scuba diving is that you need specific diving apparel to protect your body and allow you to swim easily. Such apparel includes wetsuits, gloves, hoods, computer watch, etc. The next fact about scuba diving is that nearly anyone can be certified for scuba diving. More than one million people get certified for scuba diving each year. As long as you can put on a heavy tank filled with compressed and dive down deep, you can become certified. The thing that scares most people away from scuba diving is that breathing through the rubber tube connected to the air tank is the only way to stay alive that deep in the water. People have a fear that something will go wrong, but it is rare that something does.

The next of the facts about scuba diving is that the diver must make a decision on what type of underwater adventure would be preferred. You could dive in warm or cold water, or explore locations of shipwrecks. If you are on a cruise or in other specific instances, you may not have to get certified before going scuba diving. In cruises to the Caribbean, Acapulco, and the Florida Keys, you can get a one day crash course on scuba diving before you go exploring.

If you want to become a serious diver, you will need to know the mental and physical facts about scuba diving before pursuing the sport. Physically, you will need to look at your swimming, breathing, and equalizing abilities. You need to be able to swim well, not only for exploring, but also in case of an emergency where you need to be rescued.

Breathing-wise, you need to be able to breath solely through your mouth. This is one of the most important facts about scuba diving, because otherwise you won’t be able to stay under water. When it comes to equalizing, you need to know how to “pop” your ears. When you go deep in the water, there is a lot of pressure that builds up in the ears, and so you must “pop” your ears in order to equalize the pressure. To do this correctly, you will need to consult your scuba instructor or a doctor.

The last of the facts about scuba diving is knowing whether you have any physical conditions that might limit your ability to scuba dive. Such conditions include being overweight, fatigued, having diabetes, heart conditions, or any other ailments, and prone to drowning. It is always a good idea to get a physical done by a doctor before scuba diving.

For information on purchasing scuba diving apparel and equipment or finding scuba diving lessons, start searching online. You are sure to find everything you need.