How to Prevent Health Risks While Scuba Diving?

Being submerged underwater for longer periods of time at depths of increasing pressure conveys potential risks to the health of the diver. These risks can be mitigated though by pursuing relevant training and certification, apart from the proper handling of scuba diving equipment that can be mastered following the conduct of a few open water dives. Here are some preventive measures that any diver should carefully take into mind so as to avert scuba diving accidents.

1. Running out of oxygen. If a closed-circuit system of breathing is used, a defective rebreather could increase partial pressure to toxic levels. Meanwhile, proper maintenance of the rebreather sustains partial pressure at around 1.6 ATA (considered as standard) and avoids a significant drop in partial pressure that will likewise be dangerous for breathing. Rebreathers may be lighter to carry than the tank and diving regulator combination, but it is also more intricate to use. Thus, a diver should undergo extensive training before deciding to use a rebreather. Know that the basic type of rebreather can only be used at a depth of 20 fsw. For open-circuit scuba diving, the cylinder tank used should be regularly inspected. If a tank is rusting, it is better to replace the same since rusted parts could easily deplete oxygen volume in your tank. When deep diving or cave diving below recreational depths, divers are advised to use 2 oxygen tanks, aside from bringing along an extra air source and pony bottle.
2. Regulator Free-flows. As much as possible, endeavor the use of a diving regulator set you are most comfortable with and that has been further tested of its reliability in a few open water dives. In this case, the use of rented regulators or the purchase of a second-hand unit is discouraged. If you're not using your own regulator set, discomforts can be expected and the possibility of a free flow (caused by a significant drop in pressure conveyed by the cylinder) is highly likely, particularly in cold water environments. Apart from ensuring proper regulator maintenance, use of a cylinder outfitted with a Y pillar valve can mitigate the incidence of free flow. A cylinder of this type allows for the attachment of 2 regulator sets with the valves of the tank. So in case one regulator free flows, the valve connecting the device is closed and the second valve can then be used.
3. Getting a bend. By undergoing a basic Open Water course, the diver will be able to determine his diving limits, such as how deep he can go below the surface and for how long his body can sustain the underwater environment, following a series of open water dives. Dive tables have long been used by divers for the reckoning of no decompression zones as well as to plan the ascent, decompression stops and the final safety stop. These days, the use of a dive computer such as the Aeris XR-2 Wrist Dive Computer along with the monitoring and observance of its readings and set warnings is seen to more efficiently prevent decompression sickness or the bend, given its high-performance features that provide a more accurate reading of pressure and time spent underwater.

Important Guidelines to Wreck Diving

A shipwreck is a haven of wonderful discoveries for the scuba diver. It is a historical relic filled with secrets carefully concealed by the ocean. Over the years, it has also been the home of various sea creatures and plants. Wreck diving is a rare opportunity for scuba divers to hone their diving skills, discover a significant heritage in history and be a part of an important archaeological find. This great opportunity however entails responsibility on the part of the diver. So here are a few guidelines to take note of before pursuing the dive:

Precautionary Measures while Diving

• Remember that a shipwreck has been underwater for quite some time and the superior find have been submerged for decades, or even centuries. Many sections of a sunken ship may be fragile and would disintegrate without notice, so bear in mind to keep those fin movements steady and slow. The possibility of encountering marine animal and plant species inhabiting the wreckage is highly likely, so exercise extra care so as not to disrupt their habitat.
• There is also the risk of entanglement with fishing nets or ropes, so bring along an emergency tool such as a Tech Dive Knife in hand.
• Keep extra lights handy just in case primary sources of light run out.
• A guideline may also be utilized to ensure the exit route of the wreck diver.
• Never overestimate the capacity of your cylinder tank. It is best to be safe than sorry. The rule of the thumb is to allocate 2/3 of the air reserve for use upon exit. As much as possible, carry a second tank or bring along a pony bottle.

A Different Type of Training Required

There are wreck program organizations that require scuba divers to take a PADI specialty course in wreck diving before they can join excursions. The course will orient the scuba diver on the advanced skills and scuba equipment necessary to maneuver in and out of wrecks. More importantly, the scuba diver will be able to learn the proper management of air reserves in the course of diving. Deep diving is a specialization required in the conduct of wreck diving trips; thus the wreck diver must be knowledgeable on the use of dive tables as well. Dive tables reveal what depths (at certain times) are safe to cruise without decompression. An Aeris XR-2 Wrist Dive Computer is a convenient gadget that will come in handy to alert the diver of safety parameters.

How to Get the Most From Your 'Learn to Dive' Holiday?

As part of my business, I get a lot of people looking to book up a diving holiday so they can learn to dive in the sunshine (usually Egypt). I've personally been diving in Egypt for years and consider it to be one of the best places in the world and as a PADI Divemaster, it's a subject I'm always happy to talk about.

For the novice, Egypt is an excellent place to learn to dive. The weather is always great, the water is always warm, the visibility is always good and the sea is generally quite calm. However, the problem is that when you go off to nice warm destinations such as Egypt, your time there is limited. If you are learning to dive, you want as much time as possible in the water not spending time with your head stuck in a book.

So how do you get round this problem? The answer is actually quite simple. When learning to dive, the initial course is essentially split into 3 parts; theory, confined water dives and open water dives. The theory part of the course involves reading a manual and understanding some basic concepts of the sport. The confined water dives are performed in a swimming pool where you learn a number of skills such as clearing your mask underwater (don't worry, it's not as bad as it sounds). These skills are completed over the course of a couple of dives and once they are to a sufficient standard, they are repeated in the open water (ie - the ocean).

Many people don't realise that you don't need to complete the whole course in a consecutive days and those wanting to learn to dive can use this to their advantage. I generally advise people that their best option is to complete the theory and confined water dives at a local dive centre. This means that once they arrive at their holiday destination, all that remains is to complete their open water dives and they are certified. In turn, this means they have an extra 3 days of their holiday left to enjoy their new found status as certified scuba divers which would otherwise be spent studying or in the swimming pool.

The way to do this is quite simple. The most popular entry level diving certification is the PADI Open Water Course so what you need to complete prior to travel is the Open Water Referral. This covers the 3 days of theory and confined water elements of the Open Water course. Once completed, all that remains is to complete the final 4 open water dives which is usually done over 2 days whilst you are in your holiday resort.

The way to do this is quite simple.

1. Find your local dive centre which will be listed in the Yellow Pages and give them a call to tell them your situation. Explain that you want them to take the Open Water Referral (theory and confined water dives). This shouldn't be a problem for any dive centre and they will discuss when you can complete this.

2. Contact the dive centre in your holiday resort to book the final part of your Open Water course which may also be called Open Water Referral. They will advise you what you need to bring along and the final 4 dives normally have to be completed no later than 12 months after the theory and confined water modules.

3. Complete the theory and confined water dives before heading off to your holiday resort.

4. At your resort, spend just 2 days instead of 5 completing the final 4 open water dives and congratulations, you are now a certified scuba diver with most of your holiday ahead of you.

What Ever Happened to Scuba Diving As a Sport?

I have been diving since 1993 and professionally since 1995. In theses years I have seen a change in the Scuba industry and particularly the learn to dive concept. Once upon a time the adventure sports people enjoyed would be skiing, scuba or sailing. They were often considered extreme sports requiring experience and training that would be in some cases vigorous. With 'Sea Hunt' on television and Jacques Cousteau exploring the deep blue, many baby boomers grew up with the idea that breathing under water was an adventure with many vowing to do it before they die.

With the introduction of other extreme sports from abseiling to white water rafting there was a bit of competition for the adventure dollar. Introduce the next generation Y or X with the need for instant gratification and the idea of completing a 4 day course just to go under the water suddenly lost its appeal. You could get more bang for your buck doing a tandem skydive in a couple of hours albeit for the same cost of doing a dive course. This had an effect on the number of people learning to dive. The YEAR when "JAWS" hit the big screen was met with the single biggest drop in dive certifications. Since then we have had tsunamis, global warming, 9/11, and any other number of incidents that have all reduced the uptake of diving or the decline in certifications worldwide.

Let's look at what happened to the PADI Open water course - where the learner diver typically begins.

In the 80s, the course in Sydney, Australia was around AUD $495 for 4 days + the cost of the gear you needed to get going. The schedule would have you spend a day in the classroom and sometimes additional nights, a day in the pool, and 2 days in the ocean to complete 4 dives.

After awhile dive centres started condensing the course down to a shorter period. In 1996, I had the first 3 day scheduled course theory - Thursday night theory, Saturday in the pool for skills, a bit more theory Saturday afternoon followed by 2 days in the ocean. Did this help with certifications? Well yes it did but in an effort to increase value we would take the clients away on a dive trip for the final 2 dives followed by 2 fun dives off a boat. However even though the schedule was now longer then 4 days it gave greater value to the client in the eyes of the dive operator. But certifications on weekends away still dropped as people did not want to spend two weekends diving or spend a weekend in a bunkhouse. In 2001 the option of completing the course in Sydney without the weekend away was standard.

Now if you do not offer something different how do you distinguish yourself from your competition? Well advertising and price. So this begins the price decline in learn to dive courses, which led to dive courses selling for $199 & $149 or bring a friend and get 2 for the price of one. This led to the major players such as Pro Dive delivering more certifications but not making any money on the course, and having to use gear sales and dive trips to maintain profits. Followed was a spiralling price war, starving the smaller players. As a result the ability to retain customers was lost due to the focus on Learn to Dive courses.

In 2006, with the introduction of the PADI DVD, prescriptive teaching gave the option of running a competitively priced course on a schedule that would suit more people. The 2 day learn to dive course was born. This schedule has proved to be a winner for both the client and dive operator. It does require more administration and a stricter booking policy but with the bugs ironed out this schedule has improved certifications from learn to dive courses through to continued education courses. It has a competitive advantage for the dive operator that fulfills all the necessary requirements.

Last year 2007 Pro Dive Drummoyne had significant increases in certifications and has gone against the trend of the dive industry by being one of the only dive centres in Sydney to do so. This has been made possible through fine tuning the tools from PADI and putting a system that leads to a safe fun and timely certification course. As the first dive operator to offer the program I am now convinced that this is the way forward to compete with adventure sports and the changing nature of the customer where time is money.

Brad Greentree has been a working in the dive industry full time since 1995.

PADI Master Instructor 107539, with over 12 years experience in the diving industry. He is known for his incredible patience. Along with his expertise in NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) Hypnotherapy and Time Line Therapy® , Brad will make make sure you have a safe and enjoyable time as well as help you overcome any fears you may have of the ocean. Brad has certified 1000's of students and completed over 3500 dives and travelled extensively though out the Pacific. His passion is underwater photography and has had success in a number of underwater competitions. When he is not diving he is coaching or training people using his experience in life changing techniques.

SCUBA Diving in Layang-Layang Island - The Hammerhead's Territory

Layang-Layang is an atoll of about 13 linked coral reefs which is located in waters 2,000 meters deep. This island is part of the Spratly's, which has 600 islands, reefs and shoals in the South China Sea. This atoll is a tiny gem surrounded by clear water which is teeming with rich biodiversity of marine life.

Due to its location by deep water, Layang-Layang give rise to some stunning wall diving and encounters with pelagic species such as hammerhead sharks, which can go into hundreds at certain time of the year, gathering here to perform their mating ritual. The spectacular coral gardens of virgin atolls surrounding Layang-Layang Island has never been exposed to any kind of fishing or man-made pollution. Hence, they are undeniably the healthiest reef in Malaysia and with exceptionally high diversity of coral and fish species.

Layang-Layang Island has some of the most pristine reefs which drop down as sheer walls into the abyss and covered with staggering species of healthy hard corals like the staghorn, tables and acropora being the most in numbers. These reefs makes great home to a myriad of sea life for the triggerfish, manta rays, and turtles. However, they're still outnumbered by the mighty presence of the scalloped hammerhead sharks.

Often spotted cruising here in this magnificent dive site are the schools of large dog-tooth tuna. These awesome creatures often cruise around the drop-off, in groups which range over a meter long and a large set of pointed gnashers to match. You might also bump into the elusive sunfish and pelagic like whale shark if you're lucky enough.

The visibility in the waters surrounding Layang-Layang Island is ranked extraordinary and often exceeds 40 meters. The out-of-this-world visibility could be misleading and dangerous to divers. Divers should always watch their diving depth and no-decompression time as they may be at deeper than they thought.

The only way to access Layang-Layang Island is through plane and there's only one resort on the island. The Layang-Layang Island Resort operates from March to August and closes outside that period. Big pelagic and the hammerheads are present around these time and peak sightings is around March to May period.

Depth at the Layang-Layang dive sites is from 5 to more than 40 meters. The currents are gentle with a calm surface condition. As there are dive walls which can go into endless depth, only certified divers with minimum intermediate experience level are encouraged to dive here. The recommended length of stay here is from 5 to 8 days. Divers take note, this is one of the few great dive sites that you should visit before you regret it.

Dive Computers and Other Gadgets For the Scuba Diving Techie

Technology has always been on the forefront of making human lives much easier. And when it comes to scuba diving, technology has made the experience even more fulfilling than ever. This article presents an overview of the common gadgets used underwater for purposes ranging from a simple check of pressure levels with the cylinder tank to alerting the diver of decompression stops and even for the conduct of underwater research.

1. Buzzer or Sub Duck is a device connected to your buoyancy compensator that is intended to effectively signal your diving buddies about circumstances of emergency underwater.
2. Underwater Cameras range from disposable types to really expensive SLR cameras, all dependent on your requirements or preference for use.
3. Diving Watches are probably one of the more informative gadgets on the planet with this piece of scuba equipment being designed to advise the diver of the time, date, temperature, altitude and nitrox levels, among other useful info.
4. Dive Computers may seem like a specialized pressure gauge to non-divers. But more than displaying pertinent dive information, this gadget generally serves as a decompression meter. A programmable device, the dive computer allows the diver to program a safe ascent based on the measures of depth and time spent underwater.

More specialized dive computers likewise check the nitrogen levels present in the diver's body which is essential in preventing decompression sickness. Likewise, this would be a critical factor in determining the decompression requirements upon ascent and is more reliable than dive tables in the context of calculations. Consequently, it would benefit a diver to select a user-friendly dive computer that features conveniently spaced keys and one that allows the upload of diving data to a personal computer. If you're looking for a high-performance dive computer that will prove to be an efficient decompression tool, here are some features that would be of interest to you.

• Visibility is a critical factor in every scuba diving activity. That's why getting a dive computer with over-sized digits is a foremost criteria. As you plan your ascent and configure decompression stops, you will need a good read of the vital numbers.
• A dive computer is a useful device indeed, but it could spell out a lot of trouble if the diver forgets to turn it on as soon as he hits the water. An automatic activation feature will prove to be a very important feature that will save the diver a lot of decompression hassles.
• Missing decompression stops could risk the life of the diver to the symptoms and ill effects of decompression sickness. Nonetheless, the diver might get hooked with the beauty of underwater life to forget even the conduct of a safety stop at a depth of 20 feet. An automatic alert for a safety stop outfitted into a dive computer will prove to be a very useful, life-saving feature.

Environmental Factors to Watch Out For While Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is probably one of the most thrilling recreational activities you can pursue on the face of the planet. But then again, the sport endeavors with it heavy accountability from the diver. Though the open waters of a particular site can be thought of as safe for diving, it would be wise to extensively learn about the profile of the dive site, by coordinating with local diving agencies or scuba diving shops, before plunging its depths.

Here are a few dive spot features and environmental conditions you need to be informed about prior to the conduct of a diving activity so that you won't be caught unprepared in terms of gear or stunned by any eventuality that crosses your way underwater.

1. Low Water Temperatures. Cold water locations such as in the thermocline levels of a freshwater divespot or at a certain depth of the ocean (during winter time) can get particularly chilly and make a diver susceptible to hypothermia if the don of a thicker wetsuit is dispensed with. Wearing a thick jumpsuit with a torso and limb thickness of at least 4 and 3 respectively is a must to prevent the likelihood of freezing underwater.
2. Sharp Corals. Coral debris could get stuck in skin tissue and cause infection. Avoid swimming too close to coral reefs and always wear a full-bodied suit when diving in warm waters to insulate your body from the scorching heat of the sun and prevent abrasion as well.
3. Dangerous Marine Animals. Stings, shark bites and eel electrocution are just a few of the animal-induced hazards underwater. Thus, a diver needs to be informed of the presence of these marine creatures beforehand so that he can prepare for reinforcement as well as avoid direct contact to prevent potential attacks.
4. Hazardous Chemicals. The wear of complete gear such as a drysuit and a full-face mask minimizes the penetration of harmful chemicals present in industrial water areas, particularly to a commercial diver who is trained and skilled to man this type of diving condition.
5. Fast and Strong Currents. This may cause the diver to be separated from the boat or from his team when drift diving. Always employ buoyant markers on the surface to help divers detect their way back to the surface. As much as possible, divers should not swim against the direction of the current.
6. Low Visibility. Too much silt clouding the view, can further reduce the already low visibility profile of a freshwater dive spot. Frog kicking is one technique taught in diving school to counteract the limitations of low visibility diving. Moreover, the diver should be well prepared with a set of headlights, an extra cylinder tank and a reliable diving regulator set if he intends to dive in locations with low visibility profiles.

How a Dive Computer Can Enhance Your Dive

Any scuba diving gadget will prove to be an asset during a diving trip. While considered as an efficient safety support device, gadgets such as dive computers only serve to remind the diver about the elapsed time, of the pressure level at a particular depth and of a few decompression configurations. At the end of the day, it is still the prerogative of the scuba diver to heed and respond appropriately over the readings of the device.

Find below a rundown of the basic features of a dive computer that should stimulate your interest and appreciation of this neat piece of scuba diving gadget. Moreover, this would also serve as a guide to help you choose the right dive computer to bring along on your next diving vacation.

1. Fuss-free method of nitrogen management. Dive computers may be pricey, but then again getting one will be a good investment if you intend to make your diving trip more efficient. For one it is more convenient and precise than manual dive tables. Furthermore, the device is featured with a timer and depth gauge that calculates possible nitrogen levels in the body. This function supports the diver in the upkeep of acceptable nitrogen levels and prevents the occurrence of a condition called nitrogen narcosis. The underwater gadget likewise alerts the diver to make the necessary decompression stops upon ascent to prevent decompression sickness.
2. Reliable Reminders. Some dive computers are featured with a 'dive-time-remaining' facility that can be programmed to set a dive time in minutes; informing the diver of the elapsed time and remaining time in relation to nitrogen and oxygen absorption.A dive gadget is like a personal assistant sporting an alarm mechanism that alerts the diver of safety and decompression stops at particular depths. Another safety and convenience feature is the automatic activation mode that comes in handy in case you forgot to activate the device upon descent.
3. How much 'air' do I have? Most dive computers are featured with pressure gauge functions. Outfitted with sensors, dive computers can be programmed to detect the volume of gas remaining in your cylinder tank. It is also flexible for use on a range of Nitrox mixtures.
4. User-friendly Options. The more reliable dive computers display oversized digits that allow the diver to discern the readings clearly underwater. Backlights and LED screens are also available and make way for a more convenient visual. Meanwhile, the gadget displays color-coded bar graphs that is determined to be an efficient way of monitoring diving time, depth and gas absorption underwater.

You will surely find a wide variety of dive computers retailed on-line. Nonetheless, do a bit of research before purchasing one. Dive computers such as the Aeris XR-2 is a sophisticated and fully-featured Nitrox dive computer. You could also consider the Aeris XR-1 that is full featured with all the goodies you are looking for in a high performance dive computer.

Finding the Right Scuba Diving Wetsuit

Choosing the best wetsuit is tantamount to giving yourself that full-geared up confidence to engage in a worthwhile scuba diving experience. Wetsuits offer various degrees of thermal protection for the body while underwater with its synthetic neoprene material that may be outfitted with spandex fibers to provide additional flexibility. Here are just a few helpful topics to help you in your search and purchase for this scuba gear:

1. Finding your Wetsuit Style. Wetsuits are available in full-body, three-fourths (only half of the arms and legs are covered), and two-piece styles. The three-fourths or 'shorty' wetsuit is practical for use in warm waters while the two-piece wetsuit will fit cold water dives. If you are an occasional, recreational diver, shorties will be a good choice. But if you intend to make a career or occupation out of diving, getting a full body wetsuit will give you the flexibility to don it in both cold water and warm water dives. Of course, there are retailers offering custom-made wetsuits for those with deeper pockets. When cut to your size, the wetsuit guarantees utmost comfort, better insulation and flexibility.
2. Evaluate your Diving Needs. A wetsuit should snuggly fit your body to heighten flexibility as you move underwater and insulation to protect you from chilly temperatures at the depths. Neoprene is the standard material for wetsuits and are available in thicknesses of 2mm to about 9mm. Nonetheless, you should check the thickness that you are most comfortable with. In most instances, wetsuits carrying a thickness beyond 5mm can get real bulky underwater to put a dent on overall flexibility. When that happens, the prospect of efficient insulation loses its meaning if the material constricts movement.
3. Maintaining the Proper Condition of Your Wetsuit. There are available cleaning agents and desalters to keep your wetsuit spic-and-span after each dive. This will rid the wetsuit of salt, prevent perspiration from sticking to the material, deodorize the garment and extend its useful life as well. As much as possible, dip your wetsuit in a tub filled with an enzyme-based cleaner and hand wash it carefully; particularly avoid messing up the backstitching of a wetsuit. Don't forget to mist it while drying outside but be careful not to expose it to direct sunlight. Similarly, hang the wetsuit in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight when storing them.

What You Will Learn From a Scuba Diving School?

Scuba Diver training is no walk in the park and it's not as easy as it may seem. After every diver training course, you'll be enriched with underwater knowledge and experience that you can proudly record in your dive log book. So what can you really learn in diving school? Here's a brief rundown of that.

1. Scuba Diving Theories. The initial phase of scuba diver training is theoretical and focused primarily on learning the physical principles involved. This is integrated to educate the diver on how pertinent underwater conditions could affect the body and let him realize his safety limits as well. Besides learning the hazards to diving and the basic precautionary measures, trainees will also be oriented on the buddy system of diving-including the hand signals used to convey messages underwater.
2. Basic Skills Training. Scuba diving will be much more fulfilling if you can get as agile as you can be while cruising underwater depths. The open water training instructor will give you first hand instruction on the use of mobility scuba equipment such as fins and propulsion vehicles. Moreover, you'll learn how to use the diving mask underwater and how to properly employ the snorkel. And what do you know? A trainee will also get to practice basic water skills such as free diving as well as entry and exit into the water.
3. Scuba Equipment Operation. The scuba equipment is a scuba diver's life source underwater. Though these devices can sustain your breathing, movement and comfort underwater, a trainee will have to learn how to use them properly or else the functionality featured into the scuba equipment is defeated and could even create problems during the dive. From the training, you will be able to learn how to breathe with the use of pertinent scuba diving gadgets as well as how to control your buoyancy underwater.
4. Dive Planning. Proper planning will help the diver prepare for eventualities, prevent mishaps and all the while enable him to fully enjoy the activity. An important part of scuba diver training involves the careful analysis of a diving table, which would allow him to organize decompression stops and a safety stop or calculate for a no decompression stop.
5. Emergency and Rescue Operations. Additional training on first aid strategies and what you can do when your buddy is in danger will form part of the training.
6. Specialized Diving. Scuba diving could extend beyond recreational levels and there are technical and vocational aspects to it such as cave diving and wreck diving.

So are you ready to enroll at a diving school? Don't forget to keep your Aeris Rio .5 wetsuit in top shape for a fully-geared up diving mode. You might also want to invest on a scuba gear such as the Aeris XR-2 dive computer to constantly remind you of safety parameters while diving underwater. Updating your scuba gear is just one of the few things you could do to complement your diver training and probably one of the few steps towards a fulfilling diving experience.

US Virgin Islands - The Local Secret Dive Spots

The U.S.Virgin Islands offer some of the clearest waters in which to dive in the Caribbean. There are a host of dive shops available that can take the millions of tourists along well-beaten paths...but where do the locals go? Since I lived in St. John, I'll fill you in on some secret dive locations that you'll love to experience.

Although the waters of Haulover Bay can be finicky due to its location and remote openness, it offers a great little beach dive. One of the benefits, of diving this spot, is that you can pull your car up along the side of the road and haul your gear to the beach in a matter of minutes. Once you are ready, swim out and to the left; that's where you'll find the coral and most of the fish. The dive is best from 15 to 40 feet. When you are done with the dive, plan on relaxing as you gaze across the Channel at Tortola and the beautiful hillsides along St. John's coast.

Salt Pond Bay has become more of a tourist beach in the past few years, so expect to find plenty of people milling about in the crystal clear shallows. The main problem with this dive is the long hill that stretches down to the beach. Carrying your gear, plan on taking a fifteen minute stroll to the beach. This dive will also require quite a long swim out to the best spot; around fifteen minutes with a relaxed kick and air filled BC. If you don't mind the hike or the swim, you will be rewarded with a beautiful dive around a coral formation that just barely peeks above the waves. The dive is around 65 feet and, due to the swim out and back, should only be done by experienced and fit divers. You'll see many schools of fish and the occasional shark. If you're not into a long swim or seeing sharks, there is a small coral formation located almost dead center in the Bay; it's not as spectacular a view as the formation that is farther out, but you can still see fish and enjoy an easy shallow dive.

Newfound Bay can only be reached by boat, which has kept this spot a secret that only cruisers and locals know about. You can stick to the shallows for the best coral views. With an average dive of only 15 feet, plan on spending quite a bit of time underwater. There are a host of lobster hiding in the nooks and crannies, so keep a sharp look out for their antennas. The Bay is also where a huge barracuda hangs out, and since they're territorial, you might get lucky enough to see this giant gentle wolf of the sea.

Scuba BCDs For the Girls!

Alright ladies... as a scuba diver, you should know that one of the most important pieces of equipment is your BCD. The women in this world come in a lot of different shapes and sizes. So the big question is... is there a scuba BCD that is actually made for women? Yes, yes, yes! Ok, then where do I find it, what makes them different and how do I know if I have picked the right size? Great questions! Finding one is easy nowadays, just get on your computer and start reading the reviews. Then you can even order it online at one of the many reputable online scuba shops. The sizing question is the most important one and we will walk you through the steps that you should take when trying on your BCD.

So what makes a woman's BCD different than other BCDs? The main difference is the proportions... a woman's BCD is built for a woman's body, not a man's. This means great things such as the cumberbund will be higher and there won't be a chest buckle that will press against our chests and crush us. Other great features of female BCDs are that the back, shoulders and vest can be arranged in whatever size fits you best, the adjustments strap at the shoulders, waist and hips and they are smaller and lighter carrying it in your luggage will not be as much of a hassle as it would if you had a regular BCD.

So which BCD really is the best? It's not easy to narrow it down because there are so many of them, but this is a good problem to have! From our experience and talking with our girlfriends, some of the most popular ones are the ScubaPro Lady Hawk, Zeagle Concept II, Tusa Plantina and the Seaquest Diva.

Once you start trying women's BCDs on, you will need to follow some simple steps so that you don't end up with the wrong size. First, loosen the shoulder adjustment straps, waist strap and sternum strap. Put the BCD on, adjust your cumberbund and connect the waist strap buckle. Then connect the sternum strap buckle and tighten until the shoulder straps are tight and cannot slide off your shoulders. When you tighten your shoulder straps, make sure there are about 2 inches of extra strap left over. That's it, you should now have your BCD nice and snug and in place. Make sure you move around a lot and take some deep breaths in and out. If the BCD is too tight and small or too large, move on to the next one until you find one that you feel comfortable in.

Now that you know that there is a scuba BCD for every female diver, start testing them out for yourself and most importantly, spread the word to all of the women you know who are active divers or who are just starting to get certified!

10 Tips For Choosing a Survival Suit

Survival suits are essential safety equipment if you work on a fishing vessel, oil or gas production, or as part of a search and rescue team. Survival suits will increase the amount of time that you can spend in the water in the event of abandoning a sinking or capsized vessel or stricken production platform, especially in the open ocean.

Here are 10 tips to help you choose the right survival suit, and increase your chance of being rescued should the worst happen.

1. The survival suit you choose needs to meet all the operational requirements placed on it by the operational regulatory body. So whatever you purchase make sure it conforms to your industry regulation. Depending on the environment you work in, you may need a flameproof survival suit. A more obvious requirement in the Offshore Oil & Gas Industry for example.

2. An Immersion survival suit that has personal buoyancy and thermal barrier protection which will dramatically increase survival time in the water. Immersion work suits often do not have these qualities so it is important to spot the difference.

3. Attention to detail: A buddy line ensures that you can be tied to others, so that you don't drift apart. A lifting strap will help the rescuer to winch you up to safety. An integral approved emergency light and approved reflective tape means that you are more easily found in the dark.

4. An integrated safety harness for the rescuer's suit will mean that a separate harness is not required, and ensures that it is always fitted and ready to be used, and appropriate for use with the survival suit. It is also one less thing to remember when embarking on a rescue mission.

5. Insulated gloves and booties will help to keep hands and feet warm and delay the onset of hypothermia. Also a hood is vital as so much heat is lost from the head. The hood will also protect from frostbite, and from any debris that may be in the water. Head, hands and feet should always be well insulated and protected.

6. Transport Immersion survival suits when fitted with an "Emergency Re-breathing System" (ERBS) can be a lifesaver, as it allows exhaled breath to be used again, so that if you are submerged for any reason, you can still breathe for a short time whilst you sort yourself out.

7. An Emergency Locator Beacon is essential so that the rescue services can locate you. These are designed to be used in tough conditions, and transmit on aircraft frequencies to increase you chances of being found. Some survival suits have built in emergency locator beacons, but it is also recommended to have proprietary additional beacons to hand.

8. Look for regulatory certification and approval. A survival suit that has been tested to the highest standards will certainly be up to the task. There are different standards for survival suits to be used in different environments. A pilot's survival suit will differ from that of an arctic sailor. If you are not sure of the standards you need to look for, ask. Your supplier will help you to make sure you get the right survival suit in the right size, and be able to offer any additional vital accessories, to make sure that you have the highest chance of survival.

9. An inner layer will provide additional insulation and buoyancy, meaning that you can be in the water for longer. Depending on the environment you will be in, you may find yourself in freezing water for several hours. The warmer your survival suit, the more chance you have of staying alive.

10. Your survival suit will need to be quick and easy to put on. If you are a rescuer then time is definitely of the essence, and the quicker you can be ready, the more chance you have of saving those in the water. If you are in a position where you need to abandon your vessel or aircraft, you will probably only have a few minutes to prepare. By ensuring that you can put your survival suit on quickly and easily, you will increase your chances of surviving, and being rescued.

Don't underestimate the importance of the right survival suit. Like insurance, it's something we buy and hope to never need. If we do need it, we hope we've got the best. Property and possession can be replaced, but your life can't. Don't risk buying the wrong survival suit, as it could cost you your life.

Whether you work on a passenger ship or an oil rig, your safety is vital. For help and advice choosing the right SOLAS approved Immersion Suits and Survival Suits visit HellyHansen-Workwear.com.

Snorkeling vs Scuba

Scuba is undeniably one of the great pastimes one could possibly have dressed in rubber.

Unfortunately scuba as a sport also has its drawbacks. Going on holiday to a remote destination means having to transport expensive scuba gear, or paying handsomely for equipment from an operator - not really knowing in what state of repair it is in. Some divers on a charter boat in choppy water get seasick and do not enjoy the eventual dive.

Certifications, evaluations and medical examinations have to be repeated. Dive charts need to be consulted. Medication has to be taken for allergies, sinusitis and asthma to avoid extreme pain or lung damage. Babysitters are expensive, and some parents feel uneasy about leaving young children with total strangers. Some life insurance policies even have penalties for people who scuba.

Snorkeling as an easy vacation alternative has few of the disadvantages mentioned above. A mask and snorkel will not take up too much space in your luggage. It can even be purchased relatively cheaply at most destinations. There are numerous spots where the whole family can float on a relatively flat surface of water without any effort to see tons of fish, beautiful underwater formations and even old wrecks. No need to worry about air reserves, rate of ascent and a host of other factors that could be life-threatening.

The addictive thrill of danger is still present as anything can swim up out of the blue distance, and that might be why the mask and snorkel of a true enthusiast never gathers too much dust in the closet.

How to Prepare For a Scuba Diving Trip?

Scuba diving offers a one-of-kind adventure for those who would dare to take the plunge. Nonetheless, this recreational activity cannot be conducted on impulse. In fact, scuba diving plans should commence with an ample amount of research and consultations with diving experts, in the course of drafting the itinerary of your diving vacation or preparing your scuba equipment. Remember that a scuba diving vacation does not just involve underwater diving activities. For one, there's the beach to frolic in and another is the culture of the diving location that is waiting to be explored. The following is a guide on how you will be able to make the most out of your scuba diving vacation.

1. Find the Best Deals. Browsing the Internet for vacation packages and rates will help you reckon the costs of the trip properly and prioritize as well. Rates are usually much easier to tip off when traveling with family or a group.
2. Plan for Safety and Creativity. Planning solves not just half of the problems involved but also helps mitigate the known risks of traveling and diving. When snorkeling or diving, it is advisable to swim with a buddy and dive only within the depths prescribed by your certification. Researched info on pertinent dive site conditions would help a great deal in watching out for hazards that might come along the way while diving.
3. Gear Up Like a Good Scout. Nothing compares to being well prepared for an activity such as scuba diving. As much as possible, pack your scuba equipment in tight-lock seals. Meanwhile, scuba equipment such as diving masks and dive computers require hardy casings. Don't get too overexcited for a trip only to discover a tear in your wetsuit or damage in your buoyancy compensator. Always inspect the conditions of these scuba gear before packing them up. For a more effective way of checking any missed-out scuba equipment, visualize yourself diving and take note of your gear from head to toe.

If you are looking for a more flexible diving suit, there is Aeris Rio 3/2 Jumpsuit. Applicable for warm and cold water environments, Aeris Rio is the excellent wetsuit of choice to don on those dives.

Guidelines to the Purchase of Scuba Fins

Swim fins, along with buoyancy compensator devices, are the scuba equipment responsible for underwater movement and propulsion. When shopping for a pair of diving fins, it is necessary to take note of the material used, its design and compatibility to your preferences on thrust, frequency of leg movement and comfort. To help you in the search for that scuba soul mate of a swim fin, consider the following suggestions:

1. Ergonomically-Designed. There is no substitute for good ergonomics. So always inspect the design specifications of the (swim fin) product and check out its physical features. Good ergonomics would guarantee that the product is configured to appropriately fit the human feet; with particular consideration on comfort and efficiency of movement.
2. Lightness, Strength and Durability of Material. Besides looking for the right size, you also have to consider the weight of the material and its relative durability when choosing from a selection of swim fins. A lightweight swim fin allows for relaxed leg movements while swimming. But is it also strong enough to propel you over distances without requiring frequent leg movements? There is an issue of durability, if you value quality and the long-term serviceable life of your scuba diving equipment.
3. Split Fin Technology. Split fins are an innovation employed in the design of selected swim fins nowadays. Since it covers a good amount of surface area, the device retains the thrust power of a regular swim fin. Being split in the middle, the fins require reduced thrusting effort from the diver. Ist Talaria Split fins is outfitted with said innovative feature to therefore ensure great freedom of movement while scuba diving.
4. Split Blade Feature. Want to swim faster while cruising underwater depths? A split blade feature is a precursor of excellent performance, particularly inducing powerful thrusts and enhancing propulsion as well. Thick rails are the main features of split blade fins that benefit the scuba diver when the need to cover greater distances at shorter time intervals arises. Said feature is available in the H2Odyssey Mach II Open Heel Fin, a scuba device that perfectly merges power and comfort.
5. Strap Fins Feature. Strap Fins are designed with longer blades than the usual pair of swim fins. Strap fins are generally lightweight and are designed to cover greater surface areas. This configuration allows more water to flow backwards, resulting to more powerful thrusts and accelerated swimming speed. If this design meets your fancy, why not choose Ist Bora Bora Tropical Strap Fins? Optimum performance can only be expected from this excellent piece of scuba equipment without the usual strain on your legs.

Scuba Diving - The Finest Attractions in the Galapagos Islands

Endowed with swift currents along its coasts, an exquisite geographical location and a truly remarkable biodiversity, the Galapagos Islands is well-renowned for its Enchanted Islands. Besides its geographic profile, particularly that of a prominent group of islands dotted with volcanoes and lying west of Ecuador, great diving opportunities await a recreational diver in its many dive spots. In fact, CEDAM International declared it as one of the seven underwater wonders of the world. So looking for a new place with refreshing sceneries to enhance your scuba diving vacation? Here are a few of what you will find in a Galapagos Islands scuba diving adventure.

Sanctuary to the World's Most Endangered Species

The Galapagos Islands is the only known habitat of Galapagos Tortoises. They are named as such since their shells resemble a Spanish saddle (galapago). As part of Ecuador's National Park System, the archipelago is recognized as home to a great diversity of endemic species including marine iguanas, blue and red-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, Galapagos penguins, pink flamingos and hood mockingbirds. Meanwhile, the mangrove forests dotting the islands are now preserved by way of marine sanctuary protection. Galapagos is one of the few places in the world that upholds an extensive preservation of nature; given the deep-seated environmental efforts expended by locals to make it as one of the world's biodiversity sanctuaries.

A Wonderful Nature Hike

An archipelago with great volcanic terrain, you can actually observe in Galapagos the way different types of lava flow. Moreover, at the Genovesa Island you will find the great Palo Santo forest and a bird-watching plateau inhabited by Nazca and red-footed boobies.

Underwater Volcanoes and Coral Formations

An open or deep dive presents an opportunity to discover various coral formations and underwater volcanoes. The Galapagos Islands is known for its underwater volcanic cone known as the Devil's Crown, which actually forms a great surrounding terrain with its lava. Remember not to dive without a full-body diving suit such as an Aeris Rio .5 wetsuit.

Great Opportunities for Drift Diving

One of the island's enchanting sceneries include its swift currents along the coastline that is deemed perfect for drift divers looking out for the ultimate flight under the sea. From just a few feet below the surface, you will be able to enjoy medium currents that would propel you to a velocity of 2 to 6 km/hr. Small islets that compose the Galapagos are also refreshing spots for scuba diving. Don't forget to get basic scuba equipment such as the diving mask and snorkel handy for this activity. The H2Odyssey MS12 and SP3 (Mask and Snorkel) Combo perfectly incorporates reliable performance and economy in the functionalities of a silicone mask and PVC purge snorkel package.

Top 3 Benefits of Recreational Scuba Diving

Scuba diving offers a new world of experiences and opportunities that we terrestrial beings won't encounter on land. With the invention of the self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA), along with the use of specialized scuba equipment that allows a human being to stay underwater for extended periods of the time, the thirst to probe the depths has never been quenched ever since. In fact, there's more to scuba diving than what non-divers tend to assume. Here are a few good reasons why you should gear up in your scuba gear and dive:

#1 It's a Great Way to Keep in Shape.

Subjected to a weightless environment underwater, scuba diving actually feels more like flying. Through this, your body gets a holistic exercise as it courses through the waters and succumbs to buoyant forces. Moreover, diving is an excellent cardiovascular workout that will make you burn more calories with every distance cruised and without feeling exhausted despite exertion for a long period of time.

#2 It Widens your Perspective of the World.

The ocean is home to a diverse variety of flora and fauna that non-divers would surely miss out, except for the underwater photos that have superbly captured marine life in action. Nonetheless, nothing matches a first hand encounter of marine life. Diving vacation spots such as the Red Sea and Galapagos Islands have been found to contain the finest underwater wonders including amazing coral architecture and unique species of fishes and marine plants. To intensify your appreciation for marine life, you can also participate in environmental organizations such as the REEF (Reef Environmental Education Foundation) and NARC (Neptune's Army of Rubbish Cleaners) to immerse on the purposeful protection of marine environment and wildlife.

#3 It is a Novel Spiritual Experience.

Scuba diving can either be a relaxing or challenging experience. But whether you are a novice diver or an expert diver, know that scuba diving is a fulfilling experience. Each dive is always unique. The fact that diving feels like flying underwater, with the great sea and its cropping life as background, only adds zest to the experience. Nothing compares to the encounter of serenity a diver can get while submerged in a whole new water environment.

Getting Started on a Scuba Diving Adventure. Investing on good quality scuba equipment not only guarantees a longer useful life to last your scuba diving activities, but also high performance features to support your protection, flexibility and buoyancy requirements underwater. For a more flexible diving suit, the Aeris Rio 3/2 Jumpsuit is the applicable scuba gear for donning on both warm and cold water environments. It also provides the ultimate protection from underwater obstacles given its neoprene seals. Meanwhile, to stay longer underwater, why not purchase an Extra Air Source to keep that enjoyable diving experience going.

The Different Levels of Scuba Diver Training

Diving organizations such as PADI have designed a diverse selection of scuba diving courses that can be accessed through affiliated diving schools. Each scuba diving course covers pertinent lessons that are geared towards the acclimation of particular diving skills and specializations that become evidenced by certification and a record of open water dives in the diver's logbook.
So whether you are a regular enthusiast, somebody utterly passionate about the sport that is underwater diving or intending to become a professional diver, you will have to undergo different levels of training leading to the desired certification and skill or the type of diving you intend to pursue.

1. Basic Open Water Diver. The Basic OW course is the entry level for higher recreational and professional diving certifications. If scuba diving for you is an occasional, recreational activity you prefer to conduct with a group, a basic OW certification would suffice. From this course, prospective divers will learn the theoretical aspects of scuba diving which will conclude with dive sessions in a swimming pool to simulate the conditions of open sea water. Basic scuba equipment include snorkel, fins and mask that should be provided for by the diving student. For reasons of practicality, you may opt to rent scuba gear instead of buying them at this stage of training. Gearing up with the right scuba equipment is essential to the success of your first open water dive. An economical choice for starter scuba equipment would be the H2Odyssey Mask and Snorkel Combo which is retailed in adult and child sizes. As for the fins, you can be guaranteed of an excellent thrust and flexibility of movement with the IST Talaria Split Fins.
2. Advanced Scuba Diver. If you desire more adventurous and challenging recreational dives beyond the depth limits of a basic OW certification or prefer to dive alone, PADI-certified advanced OW diving courses will serve as your stepping stone. Choose from a wide range of course options to match your preference. You may opt for cave diving if you have a thrill for underwater caverns or take up night diving as a specialization if you match your interest for nocturnal marine life. By this time around, you will need to invest on your own scuba gear such as a wetsuit. For a totally flexible diving suit, the Aeris Rio 3/2 Jumpsuit offers efficient insulation in both cold and warm water temperatures, making it a versatile diving wetsuit.
3. Master Scuba Diver. A master scuba diver is a skilled rescue diver that has acquired certification in at least 4 other specialties, apart from holding a track record of several open water dives in his logbook.
4. Dive Con. This course is available to master scuba divers who intend to pursue the instruction of recreational scuba diving basics to neophyte divers. In most cases, participants to the Dive Con training are professionals who have made the sea a way of life.

Zen and the Art of Scuba Diving

Watching whales splashing their fins near your boat on a bright warm day can be one of the most inspiring moments of your life. But watching these large creatures indulging in love plays or just indolently surfing and diving can become an infatuation that will bring you back, time and again, for more.

It was on my holiday to Madagascar that I first got the opportunity of watching whales. That whale watching tour off the coast of Madagascar has possibly run in my mind more times than any other holiday in my life. But not until I went to Belize and saw the beautiful coral and the coloured variety of the underwater world on a snorkelling tour in the Belize Barrier Reef did I actually became interested in diving.

My partner has been for many years obsessed with running, until quite suddenly she found herself unable to move. She was diagnosed with sciatica. Then one day she returned from a doctor's appointment and said plainly, "I need to go diving."

"What makes you think of that?" I asked.

"Well, the doctor says so. Evidently, it is a great form of exercise that doesn't put any strain on the joints and it takes you into another world, where you can de-stress."

FREE TRIAL DIVE

At the hotel in Belize, I checked at the reception if diving lessons were available. "Oh yes, Sir, you can book yourself for a free trial dive," and the receptionist guided me to the swimming pool. It was absolutely amazing and within a few days, we were able to make a trial dive and enjoy the beautiful corals off the Belize coast.

We were hooked. Soon, we were taking bizarre courses and buying equipment and drooling over dive magazines, admiring photographs of leafy sea dragons. We were spending all our holidays in more and more distant tropical hideouts searching for the perfect coral reef.

THE SILENT WORLD

Everyone is doing it. I am a mountaineer but most of my friends are divers. And who would have thought that John Prescott, Ken Livingstone, David Jason, Brian May and Natalie Imbruglia share a secret passion? The latest converts are Princes William and Harry. But why?

It all started 60-odd years ago, when a clever young Frenchman called Jacques Cousteau teamed up with Emile Gagnan, an industrial gas-control engineer, to produce the aqualung. The aqualung introduced the world to scuba (SCUBA - self-contained underwater breathing apparatus) diving and soon more sophisticated diving equipment was developed to make sport diving safe and memorable so that we could, with relative ease, descend beneath the surface of the sea into 'the silent world'.

We now know this 'silent world' from watching wonderful documentaries on, for example, the Discovery and National Geographic channels. Through the eyes of David Attenborough and other skilled and inspiring commentators, we have penetrated the surface and entered this different world that has such a profound effect on most people. The photographer David Doubilet - the Ansel Adams of the underwater world, who has done more than anyone else to bring this mysterious other place to the public's attention through the pages of National Geographic over the past 30 years - clearly remembers the first time he crossed the threshold. "It was like entering my very own wonderworld. I looked back at the surface and saw the light sparkling, shifting and moving. It was very emotional - going through the looking glass into a different universe. To this day I still feel the same excitement about crossing into the world below."

But hours on the sofa watching someone else's underworld adventures can't prepare you for the majesty and beauty that wait below the waves. First, you are weightless - floating like an astronaut (Nasa trains its recruits underwater) - and with a few dives you become remarkably graceful. You glide through the water with a minimum of effort, and herein lies another attraction of diving: do as little as possible. Cousteau said in his book The Silent World, published in 1956, that if you look underwater, "civilisation ends with one last bow". Until you experience it yourself, it is hard to explain how alien this world is.

Newcomers worry about the huge quantity of gear that seems so cumbersome on the surface. But surprisingly, once you are underwater, you are literally weightless. The gear is perfectly adapted for underwater mobility. A burst of air into the stab jacket and we glide gently upwards, a delicate tug on the dump and we start to descend. In between we fly. Slowly taking in our surroundings, we seem to have arrived in an underwater botanical garden.

DIVING IN GOD'S GOLDFISH BOWL

Once you are underwater, your world changes for ever. Unlike a wildlife safari, where days of searching may or may not win a prize view of a lioness hunting her prey, this magnificent world allows you to view the hunt in the open. Life, death and sex go on all around you - lion fish stalk their prey; silly clownfish defend their homes against all-comers, however large and weird; little slugs and snail-like creatures that would make you run a mile on the surface have you transfixed. And all you do is watch. Some people take photographs, but most just enjoy the sheer wonder of it all, return to the surface, and try to explain to the rest of us why it is so special. Someone on the boat mentioned that diving is like swimming in God's goldfish bowl and I am beginning to see what he means.

ZEN, MEDITATION AND DIVING

As a beginner it is natural to struggle with cumbersome equipment and movements but as you acquire experience and confidence, you arrive at a state of Zen-like aplomb. You do nothing, just drift on the current, conserving your air so that you can stay down longer. I was snorkelling on the shores on Belize when I noticed a local diver dive down and stay there for what appeared to be hours. He just stayed and floated gently moving his fins while I was struggling and yet getting nowhere. I felt he was at such peace with himself and the environment around him that I decided it was time for me to try some meditation.

Diving can be another form of meditating. It soothes your nerves and calms your mind. What is interesting is that women are as good at diving as men, if not better (they tend to be better at conserving air and often have better thermal insulation). Enveloped in your own silent world, you are totally focused on the sensual delight of your own experience. A dive generally lasts for about an hour and during that time, you are truly immersed. You don't have to be a marathon runner and strong. All you need is a burning desire to travel and a whim for an adventure.

Basic Scuba Equipment Maintenance Tips

Keeping your scuba diving equipment in top shape is necessary to ensure a safe and fulfilling diving experience. Take note that quality counts a lot in the purchase of scuba equipment and it would be worthwhile to determine how often you intend to use the gear. Consequently, proper equipment cleaning and storage after each dive will help extend its serviceable life and make the most out of your investment. Find below a few scuba equipment maintenance tips.

Diving Masks

Store your diving mask in a durable casing to avoid breakage. Likewise, there are defogging agents available that will help sustain a good vision from your lenses while underwater. Following a dive, rinse the diving mask with water and store it away from direct sunlight to avoid any instance of discoloring.

Booties

Use a soft brush to clear debris from your booties. To avoid the encounter of sticky zippers, just apply lubricant on the zippers and they are ready to go. Always store them in a cool and dry place.

Buoyancy Compensator Device

It is a must to clean your buoyancy compensator device (BCD)--inside and out--after every dive. Use a soft brush and cleaning agent to do this. Dive shops retail patch kits to aid in the repair of buoyancy compensator devices. Replacements for zippers, velcro, buckles, valves and power inflators are also available. When storing, hang the BC in a dry place to avoid growth of mildew.

Scuba Diving Gadgets

Scuba gear such as dive computers and gauges are specifically designed to withstand diverse water conditions. Extend the useful life of these devices through regular check-ups--from O-Ring inspections to battery replacements.

For a diving experience that entails lesser worries on your mind, an Aeris XR-2 Wrist Dive Computer efficiently performs the job of alerting you on particular safety limits, including decompression stops and gas levels in your cylinder tank.

Diving WetsuitsAfter each and every dive, rinse your wetsuit thoroughly with freshwater and a desalter to remove the brine. To prevent the build up of molds on the surface, wash the wetsuit immediately upon reaching home and consequently hang it to dry under the heat of the sun. Store the wetsuit in an upright position with a hanger and remember to keep it away from the sunlight when not in use. If you find a torn section on the wetsuit, there are dive shops that will do the repair work for you at a reasonable price.

If you're looking for a durable scuba diving wetsuit, there is the Aeris Rio 3/2 jumpsuit which is applicable for donning in both warm and cold temperatures. You can be assured that its neoprene material will withstand your numerous scuba diving escapades.

The Ins and Outs of Scuba Diving For Kids

These days, kid camps are expanding to diving programs that endeavor a refreshingly new way for youngsters to enjoy the summer. The Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI) now offers basic open water training courses that aim to foster in children a profound appreciation of the ocean and marine life through scuba diving. Introducing the recreational sport to children will not only help them develop diving skills at such a young age. More importantly, an early start will inculcate in their consciousness pertinent diver traits such as endurance, perseverance and team spirit, among others. Given the foregoing merits, why not make scuba diving getaways an ongoing family tradition that will serve as a learning experience for your kids and a fun, exciting activity for the entire family.

Why dive with your kids?

If you are into scuba diving, then there is no reason for you not to engage your kids in this fun-filled hobby. In fact, diving resorts organizing scuba diving camps for kids are aplenty these days. And who knows? Once your child gets certified in basic open water dives and becomes adept with the use of basic scuba equipment, the opportunity to dive recreational depths and discover new thrills together will become highly likely. Now diving vacations will serve as bonding time with your beloved family. What do you know, a family that dives together will surely have a great time together.

How young can they start?

Children as young as 8 years old can join the PADI Seal Team. Besides PADI, YMCA instructional programs include summer diving courses designed for kids. If you live near the ocean, you won't have to look any further. Local scuba diving firms and resorts operate overnight summer camps that will prove to be a novel way for your kids to spend their vacations. Scuba diving will not only enhance your child's swimming and snorkeling skills, or let them learn the operation of basic scuba equipment, but also offers an opportunity for youngsters to learn more about the world and particularly get in touch with marine life.

Kids between the ages of 10 to 15 years old who may have a penchant for scuba diving can be enrolled for a Junior Open Water Diver Certification with PADI-affiliated diving schools. During this course, dive trainees will be allowed to descend a maximum depth of 40 feet while accompanied by a PADI certified adult.

How to gear up your kids for a dive?

Gearing up your kid with the right scuba gear has never been easier with the don of a beginner's suit such as the IST Oceanus LXXII 2mm Back Zip Jumpsuit. Now available in all sizes for both men and women, the jumpsuit is made of durable nylon II neoprene material and is outfitted with strongly molded rubber knee pads. Meanwhile, find economy and practicality in the purchase of a 2-in-1 scuba equipment specially crafted for young children such as the H2Odyssey MS-6 and SP-4 Mask and Snorkel Child's Combo.

6 Cu Ft Extra Air Source - Why it is the Best Bailout Bottle?

It always pays to be prepared when scuba diving. We could get into sticky situations underwater and survival is largely determined by reinforcements made in terms of scuba equipment. Scuba divers are advised to conduct an ascent with at least 500 psi of pressure remaining in the cylinder tank. But then again, it is possible to lose track of elapsed time and gas consumption in the exploration of amazing flora and fauna.

In that case, imagine what it would be like to run out of air a few hundred feet underwater. That might just be a reason for extreme panic to the unprepared diver; but not for the diver who is all set up for a worst case scenario and geared with the right scuba equipment to resolve pertinent underwater mishaps. Cautious divers always carry with them an extra air source or pony bottle during the dive. One of the best EAS in the market today endorsed by Scuba Diving Magazine is the 6 cubic feet Extra Air Source (EAS) that is outfitted with an on and off valve. Find below a rundown of recommendable features that should entice you not to dive without this lightweight and dependable piece of scuba equipment.

Small and Lightweight. You would be amazed at how small and lightweight this air source is. In fact, you would barely notice its weight along with other scuba equipment strapped to your buoyancy compensator device; unless of course you run out of air in the course of the dive. Even more surprising is how something so small could hold such a large volume of compressed air to solely sustain an ascend that commences from the recreational limits up to the surface.

Compact and Functional. While outlined with features similar to regular diving cylinders and scuba regulator sets, this EAS is by far more compact than any other piece of scuba equipment. The air source's mechanism comprise of pressure ports and valves that operate with first and second stages to convey breathable air to the scuba diver. Two low pressure (LP) and 2 high pressure (HP) ports connect to its standard piston first stage. The second stage mechanism connects to an LP port and the optional pressure gauge while connecting to the HP ports is a quick disconnect fill valve. The second stage also features a silicone exhaust valve and mouthpiece.

Reliable and High Performance. Scuba Diving Magazine sampled this air supply and the verdict: It is the only bailout bottle or EAS that could ferry you to the surface safely and comfortably from a depth of 132 feet. Now that speaks a lot about the performance and reliability of this EAS.

Scuba Diving - 6 to Do Tips

Scuba Diving is a fun underwater endeavor for both adults and children of a particular age group. But unlike any other land-based activity, pertinent safety guidelines need to observed considering the risk profile of this recreational sport. Thus, the diver cannot just descend with his scuba gear into a few feet of seawater and pull out of the surface nonchalantly, as one would do in a swimming pool.

Due to the use of an open water scuba set that employs Nitrogen-based Air to support respiration underwater; the diver will have to consider the parameters of decompression to properly clear inert gases from his bodily system prior to ascent. Moreover, the diver needs to contend with the opposing forces of buoyancy and gravity in the water column amidst its (scuba diving) physicality and the limits of his air supply. Find below 6 to-do tips to keep in mind when engaged in this recreational sport.

#1 Endeavor to be healthy and fit.
As mentioned, scuba diving is a strenuous form of sport considering the weight profile of scuba equipment used (particularly the cylinder tank) that increases drag underwater to therefore require physical exertion on the part of the diver; while swimming and maneuvering his body (and scuba gear) towards a particular depth and direction. Similarly, the diver needs to maintain a healthy body weight so that he neither becomes a sinker or on the other hand too buoyant to sink, which is typical of overweight divers.

#2 Submit to a physical exam prior to the dive.
For prospective divers who have a history of congenital heart disease and other cardiovascular illnesses, scuba experts recommend thorough medical screening and clearance from the attending physician that the diver is in fact physically fit to engage in scuba diving. Heart attacks could manifest in the course of the dive and has in fact been the cause for casualties during scuba diving trips.

#3 Inspect your scuba equipment prior to the dive.
This a standard operating procedure to observe unless you are determined to risk your life to the hazards of malfunctioning scuba equipment; including leaks in high pressure hoses which could interfere with the conveyance of air to your regulator set and buoyancy compensator device; or a contaminated first stage mechanism that could trigger free flows.

#4 Ascend to the surface with at least 500 psi pressure in your tank.
This is a basic criterion adhered to by majority of recreational scuba divers. In the dive of recreational depths, the 500 psi-mark serves as a safety margin upon ascent in case the diver encounters a bit of trouble and would require additional air supply on his back way to the surface.

#5 Perform a Safety Stop during ascent.
Even for No Stop Dives or dives that do not require decompression stops in the course of ascent, performing a safety stop at the depth of 10 to 20 feet below the surface for around 1 to 5 minutes heightens the diver's margin of safety against the risk of developing decompression sickness.

Diving Wear to Fit Your Scuba Diving Interest

Scuba divers wear specialized suits to keep their bodies warmed and protected during an underwater excursion. In most instances, we would observe divers' being garbed in a slick, rubber-like garment or scuba gear that snuggly fits the skin. One of the more popular suits to come from a diving wear line is the wetsuit. But then there are other types of diving suits manufactured to match an identified dive profile or perform a particular function. For this article, let us examine and compare the construction, basic features and application of commonly used diving wear; in particular the skinsuit, drysuit and the wetsuit.

Skinsuit: Abrasion protection and mobility Fabricated out of fabric called Lycra (a spandex label), skinsuits provide the tightest fit among all the other types of diving wear. In fact, divers quip that the scuba gear feels quite like swimming naked when referring to the wear of this elastic piece of garment. Superior flexibility is one feature associated with skinsuits that arises from the stretchable properties of spandex fibers; thus making it easier to don a skinsuit than a wetsuit.

Despite its convenience features, skinsuits are designed only to protect the diver from cuts and scratches or from the scorching heat of the sun. Moreover, this type of diving suit is fit for use in the conduct of snorkeling or when diving the recreational depths of warm water dive spots.

Drysuit: Ultimate thermal protection at a price The drysuit offers the best level of insulation and protection compared with all the other garments designed for scuba diving. Made of high performance neoprene, rubber or nylon material, the drysuit is compatible for use in cold water dive spots being outfitted with a waterproof zipper and seals over the neckline and wrists which heighten its insulation properties. Nonetheless, these benefits command a hefty price while requiring an expertise in buoyancy skills, given the inflatable property of this scuba gear.

Wetsuit: Modal thermal protection within budget The neoprene wetsuit meets halfway pertinent cost and performance parameters that matter most in the selection of a diving suit. Apart from being priced midrange, some wetsuits offer the dual benefits of insulation and protection; though the neoprene material is widely recognized for its ability to keep the body warm underwater.

The synthetic rubber foam neoprene comes manufactured in varying levels of thickness (from 2 to 9 mm) where a 6mm thick wetsuit provides better insulation but with a corresponding decline in terms of flexibility and overall comfort for the diver. Consequently, this type of scuba gear is designed to match particular dive profiles with some of them outfitted for use in both warm and cold water environments.

Scuba Diving - Beginner's Guide to Basic Open Water Training

Entry into the world of scuba diving commences with extensive basic scuba diving training at the hands of qualified diving instructors from a PADI or NAUI affiliated diving school. Training could stretch from a few days to as much as 11 weeks; although a lengthier duration is much preferred to give the beginner ample time to be comfortable underwater; to become adept with scuba equipment use and of course to master basic diving skills before these acquired abilities are tested in the open water.

Requirements. As a prerequisite to enrollment in foremost scuba diving schools, the participant should be at least 15 years old where divers below the age of 18 are admitted only after securing parental consent. Divers below 15 years old can participate in a junior open water course. Meanwhile, health is another primary requisite and only those who fit the medical bill - based on a questionnaire and a medical certification endorsed by a physician, are admitted into the course.

Classroom Training. All the theoretical aspects of scuba diving will be discussed and learned through classroom instruction at a duration of up to 9 weeks. Classroom training will cover various topics which includes basic diving techniques, safety parameters to diving, selection and maintenance of scuba equipment, physiological implications of a dive, dive planning and a preview of basic diving skills. Participants will also be given homework and exams after each session.

Pool Sessions. Integrated with classroom instruction are hands-on skills trainings that are conducted in a swimming pool. In most instances, two-thirds of a regular session (classroom + pool) are dedicated to pool training where the beginner is endeavored to try out the diving skills previewed from classroom sessions; to simulate open water conditions and master pertinent diving skills including swimming, mask removal, buoyancy skills, scuba equipment handling and emergency troubleshooting skills.

Examinations. Before heading out to test their skills in open water, beginners are required to take written examinations. Coverage of the final examinations include all the learnings acquired during the 9 week training where students are quizzed on theories, application of decompression tables and hand signals. To obtain certification, a minimum rating is required for the theories section while students should get perfect marks on the dive tables and hand signals segment of the exams.

Guide to Kiddie Scuba Fin Selection

In the age of the Internet, it seems that physical forms of recreation have been moderated by the thrills of a virtual gaming experiencing. Consequently, kids are becoming less attuned to traditional games that enticing them to sporting activities or a few minutes of exercise will prove to be a challenge for most parents. Apparently, the only way to sustain your child's interest towards active recreation is to introduce them to fun, water-bound activities such as scuba diving or snorkeling. Scuba diving is now a favorite theme of many summer camps for kids or you could enroll your 10-year old with a local diving school to get trained for a junior open water certification.

Before getting your kids involved in any water sports, be sure to gear them up properly with the right scuba equipment to optimize comfort and fun. Wetsuits come in child sizes and so do diving masks. Scuba fins are no exception. Fins are the type of scuba gear that kids can't seem to get enough of; so better check out a few considerations outlined below before driving to the nearest scuba equipment shop.

1. Comfort. Kids won't be enticed to love the sport should their scuba fins become a persistent source of discomfort. Padded and easy to wear - these are major features to consider in the selection of underwater propulsion scuba gear. Moreover, the pair should neither be too loose nor too tight; so as much as possible bring along your child during the purchase and encourage him to select scuba fins that snuggly fit their feet.
2. Durability. These are kids we are talking about. Thus, the subject of durability should form part of your decision. If you are expecting a longer serviceable life from the pair of scuba fins you intend to purchase for your child, make sure you are getting durable ones. The most durable scuba fins on the market are manufactured from rubber, reinforced plastic or a mix of said material components.
3. Efficiency. Select a pair of scuba fins designed to provide excellent thrust and propulsion that won't entail heightened kicking effort from your kids. Indeed, you are enticing your child to be physically active, but then again you wouldn't want to wear them out with too much leg movement.
4. Price. While fine tuned for improved performance, present day scuba fins are surprisingly inexpensive. In fact, you are bound to find a moderately-priced pair of durable and efficient scuba fins if you are diligent enough.

The above tips should help you get started on your purchase. Nonetheless, if you are still undecided, allow us to recommend the Kona Shoe Style Fins from the scuba equipment line of H2Oddyssey. For starters, the pair comes in kiddie sizes that makes the Kona appropriate for kids and moms with extremely small feet. Outfitted with soft rubber foot pockets and only high grade materials, the scuba fins allow for optimum performance and user comfort; not to mention the advanced engineering methods employed in its manufacture. Furthermore, a pair of Kona Shoe Style Fins retails for less than $20; so what more could you or your kids truly ask for in a fin?

Scuba Diving - Why Fancy a Freshwater Dive?

Prime diving destinations have always been associated with tropical dive spots that offer a breathtaking encounter of coral reef formations and abundant marine life. While exploring deeper oceanic depths that are beyond recreational limits can provide a different kind of high to thrill seeking scuba divers, a more intense challenge awaits in the murky depths of freshwater dive spots. Imagine what it would be like to dive into rivers, lakes and swamps that may be thousands of feet above sea level. Truly, it would be a completely different experience that is often left out to professional scuba divers on a technical mission and without recreation on their minds. So why not pursue freshwater locations in your next scuba diving getaway? Find below a rundown of obstacles to encounter and underwater attractions to expect in freshwater dive spots.

A Different Kind of Challenge. One of the most pressing obstacles to freshwater diving is a limited visibility profile that is heightened by the presence of silt, mud and other items. Unlike tropical, warm water environments that offer good visibility profile on account of good weather conditions during the day, a dive on freshwater locations would require the use of high performance scuba equipment to compensate for the mentioned limitation.

Similarly, freezing cold waters (particularly at below thermocline levels) can be expected from bodies of water that are nestled in high altitude locations. Given its temperature profile, the don of specialized scuba gear such as wetsuits and a regulator with balanced first and second stages are deemed fitting to avert the diver from succumbing to hypothermia and preventing regulator free flows respectively; since the likelihood of contamination is highly likely for unbalanced regulators that are outfitted with frequently moving parts.

The Beauty of it All. Despite the obstacles pertinent to freshwater locations, the interesting scenery that awaits the scuba diver as he hits bottom is the real merit of a freshwater diving expedition. Most likely, you won't be viewing familiar flora and fauna thriving in the depths of sea water. Get ready to be mesmerized with unique plant life and underwater creatures that are endemic to these murky waters. You might even find wreckages to explore or antiquated artifacts to behold.

Of course to get a perfect glimpse of what lies beneath you will have to pool your scuba equipment together to work for this unique diving adventure; among them a head light and some spare lighting devices, an extra cylinder tank, a reliable diving mask and a good pair of diving fins, and also a high performance dive computer that automatically compensates for changes in altitude. Gear up only with the right scuba equipment to make the most out of your freshwater adventure.

The 5 Don'ts to Scuba Diving

Enthusiast and hobbyists pursuit the sport of scuba diving to either observe the beauty of underwater flora and fauna, to fulfill advocacies geared towards marine life protection or simply to experience the thrill of diving into recreational depths. For whatever interest recreational divers may have for the sport, particular guidelines must be observed not only to increase the diver's margin of safety but also to heighten the pleasure available from this popular diversion. Below is a rundown of 5 'don't do' tips that a scuba diver shouldn't miss.

Do not dive when your airways are congested.
The tell tale signs of an upcoming cold, cough or flu should convince you to postpone your dive until such time that your airways become decongested of mucus. Many novice divers succumb to ear barotrauma due to the improper application of middle ear equalization techniques in the encounter of rising pressure at descent. Consequently, an upper respiratory infection doubles the risk with the condition's likelihood to block the eustachian tube (the auditory tube linking the pharynx and the middle ear) and trigger middle ear squeezes. Middle ear squeezes can progress to ear barotrauma that often results to lung injury and damaged bodily tissues.

Do not drink alcohol before the dive.
Popularly referred to as 'the Martini effect', Nitrogen narcosis is imminent in the use of Nitrogen-based gases where the condition usually manifests in depths of over 100 feet; affecting diver cognition and response. The risk of intoxication is severed for divers who drink alcoholic beverages at least 24 hours before the dive. As much as possible, abstain from alcohol a few weeks before your planned diving trip.

Do not Overweight.
Many divers think that by strapping more lead weights onto their belt or by the legs could enhance buoyancy control; particularly for divers who often encounter problems during descent. Nonetheless, this practice will not only prove to be exhausting but also increases the inhalation effort of the diver which prevents the optimal use of his limited air supply. This results to limited bottom times and a weary diver. Before you dive, master pertinent buoyancy techniques and scuba equipment operation in the swimming pool and get rid of the heavy weights.

Do not dive in unknown waters.
Conduct prior research of the dive site's profile before engaging in any dive. Better yet, consult a local diver for pertinent information so that you won't be caught unprepared in the encounter of strong underwater currents, natural obstructions and possible attacks from marine animals. If conducting a night dive, be sure to perform a preliminary dive of the site during daytime.

How to Help Preserve Marine Life Through Scuba Diving?

Issues such as global warming and environmental degradation have stirred many sectors of society towards social responsibility and the stewardship of our natural resources. Organizations such as REEF (Reef Environmental Education Foundation) and NARC (Neptune's Army of Rubbish Cleaners) are grass roots environmental agencies that organize research and educational programs, including clean up activities that aim to entice divers, marine researchers and even non-divers to become stewards of aquatic ecosystems and marine life per se. If you are a diving enthusiast and would like to participate in the global effort of preserving marine habitats, here are a few noteworthy activities that you can engage into.

1. It commences from land. The activities of man on land will eventually affect the state of marine life in one way or another. So why not join the local scuba diving community in the conduct of coastal clean-up activities that are organized every year. This can help reduce the volume of hazardous wastes infiltrating marine habitats.
2. Taking whatever your hands can carry. Reef clean-up involves the removal of non-biodegradable materials without disturbing the fragile balance of marine flora and fauna thriving in these biotic underwater habitats. Garbage collected from reefs can be further segregated, recycled or reprocessed to prevent its unwanted return to the ocean.
3. Surveying Fish and Reef Species. Besides the removal of trash from the waters, REEF also maintains a growing database of fish and other marine species with their corresponding abundance scores. This is accomplished through the Roving Diver Volunteer Program that beckons certified scuba divers inclined to multi-task, as they go about with their individual, recreational diving pursuits in the waters of Canada and the US, with the survey of marine species and recording of its manifestation based on the inputs required by a proforma survey sheet. Said activity not only seeks to provide a dynamic, primary data for marine research and product development but also fosters a profound understanding and appreciation of marine life for volunteers.

Think you have got what it takes to become a steward of marine ecosystems? Non-divers can contribute to this pursuit by participating in coastal clean-up activities. Nonetheless, certified scuba divers can do so much more to this end being in close contact with coral reefs and other reef formations. This can be conducted without upsetting the fun part of any recreational scuba dive with the simple retrieval of any garbage you find on the reef. Moreover, becoming a REEF surveyor puts more meaning to the definition of marine life stewardship. Just make sure you're properly geared up with the right scuba equipment to keep you properly insulated, mobile and neutrally buoyant as you probe into the depths of the ocean to inspect the bounties of marine ecosystems