Tips and Tools for Underwater Navigation

Posted: Nov 15 in Dive Blog tagged Diving Gear by Jan

How to keep your scuba excursions on track after dive certification in Illinois

Though breathing underwater may be the most pressing challenge we face while diving, it isn’t the only one. The thrill of scuba diving comes from exploring an unfamiliar world, but these surroundings are not always easy to navigate—finding your way around is more complicated than it is on the surface.

When you’re getting your dive certification in Illinois and taking your first few dives, you’ll likely be following a guide, which helps you leave navigation to someone else as you master basic scuba skills. Still, it’s always a good idea to know how to find your own way in case of emergency, and most serious divers will eventually want to learn how to take the wheel.

Underwater navigation is something that even advanced divers struggle with, particularly when exploring a new dive site. One of our PADI dive classes on navigation may be a smart choice if you hope to plot your own course underwater, but preparing with these tips and tools can be a big help too:

Tips:

• Pay attention during briefings. Many dives are preceded by an informational session with a dive master. These briefings can teach you about distinctive features of the dive site, so remembering what you’re told can make it easier to understand your surroundings once the dive has started.
• Find landmarks. At your entry point, take a look around and pick out distinct reminders that can help you find your way back. Keep your eyes peeled for interesting rocks and debris. Notice whether the bottom is sandy or rocky, ridged or smooth. If you’re diving from a boat, note what the boat looks like from underwater (as well as the boat’s name). It’s also a good idea to pay attention to the current—most dives will begin against the current to make the return trip easier.
• Concentrate on your surroundings and instruments. Focusing too much on where you’re going can make you lose track of where you’ve been. Instead of keeping your eyes locked straight ahead, keep an eye on the heading of your compass and take mental notes of interesting things you pass.

Tools:

• Underwater GPS. Much like the satellite-aided navigation systems you may have used in your car, an underwater GPS will display your exact location on an easy-to-read map. Underwater GPS devices can be worn on the wrist for convenient access and will help you know your precise heading at all times. Some GPS devices even allow you to mark interesting locations or display the positions of dive buddies wearing a GPS.
• Handheld sonar. These devices transmit a pulse of sound and calculate your distance to an object based on the time it takes for that signal to return to the device. This makes them useful for determining your distance from the floor or surface, as well as reefs, wrecks, boats and even schools of fish (in some models). Many sonar devices also collect other data like water temperature.
• Compass. A compass is one piece of dive equipment you should never be without on a scuba excursion. Be sure to note the heading of your destination and your starting point before you take the plunge. If you get turned around, get to the surface to find a new heading, and then head back under to follow it.
• Dive maps. Popular dive sites often have maps available, giving you the chance to check out the individual features of your chosen location before diving in. These maps can offer information on currents, depths, entry and exit points and even the kinds of marine life to expect.
• Dive slates. These waterproof surfaces can be written on underwater, making them perfect for noting landmarks and important information shared in dive briefings. Some popular dive sites even have dive slates available with maps and custom information on the specific site. You can also draw your own map of the site on a blank dive slate.

Underwater navigation can be simple when visibility is high and plenty of visual cues are around, but not all dive sites have optimal conditions. Knowing where you are and where you’re going will take stress out of any dive, giving you the confidence to stay focused on what matters: having a great time.