Shore diving is simply diving from the shore. Compared to boat diving, it’s more convenient since you don’t have to swim or go too far just to dive. It’s a great way to practice open-water diving for beginners and a perfect leisure activity for those who simply can’t get enough of diving—they can go and dive from the shore in a nearby or local beach even everyday after work. Shore diving is indeed an inexpensive, less complicated and easy way to go scuba diving for experienced and new divers alike.

Although diving from the shore is relatively easier and safer as you can slowly follow the bottom contour as you descend and as you swim back to the shore, you have to be cautious, especially if you are new to diving. Below are some tips you can follow to ensure your safety and your absolute enjoyment even when you’re just diving from the shore.

Plan Your Dive

A lot of divers go scuba diving from the shore without planning their dive probably because they think it’s easy and safe. This is where the risk comes in. The best way for you to prevent any mishap is to plan your dive; make sure to include an emergency plan as well.

The first step in planning your dive is examining the condition of the place. Watch closely where and how the waves break so you know where to safely dive into and ascend from the water. Also, examine the current and visibility of the water. It’s best to dive during a period of high and slack tide. This is just before the start of the low tide.

Accidents Are Not Always DIVING Accidents

Just like any outdoor or recreational activity, diving also exposes the person to other risks of encountering normal accidents or getting injured. It would be best not to dive alone. Always bring a friend or two and make sure to have someone on shore that is ready to assist you in case of any emergency. If you are not familiar with the place where you are going to dive, be sure to inquire beforehand about the medical facilities in the area. It’s also helpful to always bring an emergency kit with you.

Review Your Shore Diving Lessons

If you haven’t been scuba diving recently, it would be best to review your diving lessons before you go shore diving. Master how to use your diving equipments correctly as well as the diver sign languages. You may not be able to control the water, the current or the tide, but you certainly can control yourself. You must at least know what to do in certain situations that are particularly life-threatening.