Winter2016AlertDiver

DIVE SITE REGULATIONS:

WHAT TO ASK BEFORE YOU GO

Travel Smarter

Rules vary depending on where you dive. Local dive operators

or governing bodies might regulate anything from the gear you

use and the hours you dive to the type of diving you do and who

can dive with you. An important part of any trip planning should

therefore involve researching the sites you plan to visit. Before you

go, find out the answers to these questions:

Does my training match the dive site’s requirements?

Not all dive sites allow open-water recreational divers. In fact,

some dive sites, such as cavern- and cave-diving sites, require

a high level of training. Make sure you either check online or call

the local dive operator to determine certification and training

requirements.

What equipment is allowed?

Some sites require you to bring special equipment such as

surface marker buoys or spare air. Other locations prohibit use of

certain items such as gloves or spearguns in an effort to protect

the marine environment. Learn what is mandatory and what is

restricted before you pack.

What are the site’s access requirements?

Protected dive sites or sites located on or next to private property

sometimes require divers to purchase tickets or tags to dive.

They also occasionally limit entry to specific locations due to

environmental or privacy concerns. Some dive sites even require

divers to use a guide employed by a local shop or resort. Gated

sites such as quarries often have their own regulations. For

example, certain quarries require membership before divers can

gain access, and many locations restrict the hours in which you

can dive. Don’t show up to a site only to be turned away — do

your research first.

Good diving etiquette dictates that divers should follow

the rules set in place regardless of where in the world they

travel. Remember that diving regulations are established to

protect your safety or the safety of the marine environment or to

ensure compliance with local laws and customs of your travel

destination. Just as we learn to respect the inhabitants of the

underwater world during our open-water training, we should also

respect the regulations set by people who facilitate our entry into

that world.

ANDY MORRISON