Many people all over the world have fallen in love with scuba diving, and it’s not hard to see why: Diving allows them to explore a world that is so vastly different from their everyday lives!
The underwater world boasts its own unique ecosystem and incredibly diverse marine life. The ocean, after all, covers more than 70% of our planet Earth, and so if we don’t explore it then wouldn’t we miss out on so much of what nature has to offer? Even more reason to dive is that feeling of weightlessness and the sense of adventure that truly make it a unique experience.
For those who have never tried it before, scuba diving may seem intimidating or even frightening. However, with the right training and preparation, anyone can become a confident and safe diver. The first step to becoming one is getting your Open Water license. Many experienced divers would agree that this is one of the best life decisions they’ve made. Having completed tens or even hundreds of dives, seasoned divers understand the allure, the mystery, and the danger of the vast and deep ocean. They know how important it is to be thoroughly prepared before beginning your scuba diving journey.
If, like many of our guests at Mimpi, you have always been curious about the underwater world, then completing the Open Water course might be the perfect way to spend your next vacation (check out our PADI Open Water Learn & Stay Package at Menjangan and Tulamben for the best deal!).The PADI Open Water course typically takes 3-4 days to complete and is designed to give beginner divers the basic knowledge and skills necessary to dive safely and comfortably in open water.
PADI dive instructors guide students through classroom sessions, pool training, and open water dives to ensure they have a thorough understanding of diving theory and practical skills. Once you receive your Open Water License, then you are considered a novice diver and can start diving anywhere in the world up to a depth of 18 meters / 60 feet. Your world has just opened up by a lot!
However, obtaining your Open Water license is just the beginning of your diving journey. Diving is a lifelong pursuit that involves continual learning and skill-building. As you dive more, you will gain more confidence, and your skills will improve. Remember, it is essential to prioritize safety at all times. For beginner divers, it is normal to feel nervous, but there are ways to reduce this anxiety. Here are 21 tips for beginner divers to help them feel more at ease on their next dive:
1. Get Certified
Sure, you can take the 1-day PADI Discover Scuba Diving course if you just want to test the waters, but trust us, you will fall in love and you will want to dive more and more! Now, that’s when you want to get the full PADI Open Water certification–it’s truly worth it.
2. Choose a reputable dive center
Before you book your dive course or dive trip, make sure the dive center is reputable and has experienced staff. We normally suggest going with a dive center that is local to the sites you are exploring. Our dive instructors and dive masters at Mimpi have been diving the sites near the resorts for more than 20 years. They know every nook and cranny, and this doesn’t just make it more fun (they know where to spot all the cool marine life!) but also safer. Lastly, never let price be the main decision maker. Your comfort and safety is paramount here.
3. Get fit
No, you don’t need to be an aspiring athlete or have a high-definition six-pack. But scuba diving is a sport, and like any other sport, it can be physically demanding, and so it’s important to be in good physical shape. Make sure you’re comfortable swimming and can handle carrying heavy gear.
4. Learn to breathe
Breathing underwater is different from breathing on land. Practice taking slow, deep breaths and exhaling fully. Never, ever hold your breath underwater.
5. Keep calm
It’s natural to feel nervous when diving, especially as a beginner. Remember to stay calm and take deep breaths to help you relax. Another perk of staying calm is that your oxygen tank will also last longer!
6. Clear your ears
As you descend, the pressure on your ears will increase. Learn how to clear your ears by pinching your nose and blowing gently. Do it as frequently as you need throughout your dive.
7. Clear your mask
This is one of the first skills your instructor will teach you during an Open Water course. Sometimes water can seep into your mask during your dive or your mask lens get foggy. These are two completely normal situations that can seriously take the fun out of your dive. Learn how to clear your mask by exhaling through your nose and practice it often.
8. Use a dive computer
When beginner divers ask us what equipment they should purchase as their first investment, our answer is almost always: A dive computer. It is an essential tool for scuba diving that will help you track your depth, time, and decompression stops. You’d be hard pressed to find an experienced diver who doesn’t wear one every time they go diving. Seriously.
9. Check your gear
Before every dive, make sure your gear is in good working order. Check for any leaks, tears, or other issues. Check if the gas supply is working just fine. There’s an acronym that can help you here: BWRAF, and for easier memorization you can use the fun mnemonic device of Breakfast-With-Rice-And-Fish.
B = BCD check
W = Weights check
R = Releases check
A = Air check
F = Final overall check!
10. Signal your buddy
Always dive with a buddy and agree on a set of hand signals before you begin. Practice signaling to each other on land. It’s pretty much the only language you have underwater.
11. Be aware of your surroundings
Keep an eye on your surroundings and avoid touching or disturbing any marine life. When underwater, we are their guests and so let’s stay respectful of our hosts here.
12. Don’t hold your breath
Holding your breath can be dangerous while scuba diving. Make sure you’re breathing continuously throughout your dive.
13. Stay hydrated
Dehydration can be a problem while diving, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water before and after your dive.
14. Know your limits
Don’t push yourself too hard while diving. Know your limits and stick to them. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
15. Practice buoyancy control
Buoyancy control is essential for diving. Practice maintaining a neutral buoyancy so you don’t damage any marine life or disturb the environment. Mastering your buoyancy will also allow you to enjoy your dive to the fullest because you won’t have to spend the whole time adjusting your buoyancy and missing out on the beautiful scenery!
16. Know the signs of nitrogen narcosis and decompression sickness
Nitrogen narcosis can occur at deeper depths and can cause disorientation and confusion. Know the signs and ascend if you start experiencing the ‘drunk’ feeling that is characteristic of nitrogen narcosis. Decompression sickness (DCS) is a risk factor for divers who are doing deep or long dives, cold water, heavy exercise at depth, or rapid ascents. Always contact DAN or a physician trained in dive medicine in cases of suspected decompression illness — even if the signs and symptoms appear resolved.
17. Follow the dive plan
Always follow the dive plan and stay within the limits of your certification.
18. Check your air
Make sure to check your air supply regularly and communicate with your buddy about your air consumption.
19. Stay warm
Diving can be cold, so make sure you’re wearing the appropriate wetsuit or drysuit for the water temperature.
20. Practice emergency procedures
Practice emergency procedures with your buddy before every dive. Make sure you know how to handle any potential problems that may arise.
21. Have fun
Remember to enjoy yourself and have fun! Scuba diving can be an amazing experience, so make the most of it.
Whether you’re just starting out or have a few dives under your belt, hopefully these 20 tips can help you feel more confident and comfortable in the water. The more you dive, the better you will get, and the more fun you will have. Remember to always prioritize safety, respect the marine environment, and have fun!
Check out our hassle-free PADI Open Water Learn & Stay Packages available at both our Menjangan and Tulamben resorts in Bali.
Get an extra 15% off the normal price if you book for stays between 1 May – 30 June 2023, 1 September -19 December 2023 or 6 January – 31 March 2024.
