Wreck diving is often associated with recreational diving and exploring shipwrecks. While shipwrecks are the traditional sites for wreck diving, an increasing trend is to scuttle retired ships to create artificial reef sites. Read on to learn more about the art of wreck diving. These are the essential tips that will help you get started with wreck diving. First, get your equipment ready! There are many kinds of equipment. You can make the difference of a fun or dangerous dive by choosing the right gear.
Divers who are not looking for penetration should not dive in wrecks
You can learn a lot about non-penetration wreck diving if you are new to diving. First, wrecks are often places to fish. Divers need to be aware if there are lines or nets. Additionally, the underlying terrain can have sharp edges and currents may carry them away from where they are interested. While it's not advisable to dive in this type of terrain, non-penetration wreck diving is a good option.
Although technical penetration diving sounds easier than it actually is, there are many dangers involved. Light zone diving poses dangers due to overhead hazards, proximity of the wreck structure, and possible trapping in narrow passageways. Furthermore, the presence of silt and mud in some wrecks can severely compromise visibility and make orientation very difficult. To avoid these dangers, non-penetration wreck diving requires that the diver stay within the light zone and move to an exit point.
Surveying a sunken wreck
Not only are traditional surveys required, but also the use of specific equipment and an in-depth knowledge of the maritime history surrounding the wreck must be done. Depending upon the time and accuracy needed, the survey method can include a GPS fix, a tape baseline or offset and tie measurements. You have many options for surveying sunken wrecks, including sonar or other non-destructive tools.
A shipwreck inspection is intended to locate and identify the ship. It should identify navigational hazards as well as environmental conditions. Historical events are also included. The survey report should include a description of the vessel's structures, the incident that resulted in its sinking, and any other archeological studies. The site should be able to be plotted on an nautical chart to allow for precise measurements.
Equipment necessary
It is important to know the details of a shipwreck before diving. Know its layout, its key points, and its hazards. This will allow you to prepare for your dive and decrease the risk of getting into an accident. You'll find information about all the equipment required to dive a shipwreck. Before diving, make sure you read the checklist and bring it along to the dive site.
Proper buoyancy control is crucial to not lose your way in the darkness. Wreck diving requires good buoyancy control. Without a buoyancy control tank or weight belt, it is not recommended that you dive deep in water. A weight belt and a regulator are necessary if you want to have fun diving. These two pieces will help ensure your safety as well as the safety of others at the wreck.