Wreck Diving Etiquette
One of the most exhilarating dives accessible to all skill ranges nowadays is wreck diving. From subs to schooners, all over the ocean in all environments lay wrecks of old just waiting for intrepid divers to plunge into their history. Here’s a few quick tips on making the most of your first dive…
Take only photos, leave only bubbles
Back in the heyday of early wreck diving, divers would race down to wrecks with crowbars and sledges in hand fully intent on prying off portholes and smashing down cabin doors for treasure. Nowadays it is a very frowned upon practice. After all, if you take artifacts, what’s left for your fellow divers to enjoy?
Fins up, buoyancy perfect
Perhaps the only other dive where buoyancy is paramount to success is cave diving. In a wreck it is very easy to disturb a silty bottom, bang off dust from the ceiling, and effectively endanger yourself and your buddy. These skills are most important in penetration dives, but should be exercised on every dive regardless.
Plan the dive, dive the plan
It is very important for you to plan and review your dive with your buddy or dive guide prior to splashing. Wrecks are tantalizingly easy to get lost in, and though that is VERY uncommon on popular wreck dives, the possibility for exploration is always going to be there. Your safety is the most important factor in the dive, so even if you see a room or passage you think you could squeeze into for a quick look, refrain from pushing the boundary. After all, you can always replan and come back to it!
Image: Scuba Diver Life