As you go deeper into the magical world of scuba diving you will soon realize that divers are the most social beings of the sea. The process is simple: you dive, you get to know people, you swap underwater “buddies” and ultimately everyone shares common experiences with each other, doing something they really enjoy. Still, no matter how fun diving along with many other people, as well as a professional diver, you can also find the thrill you seek for, in diving with just one partner.
Such a diving experience gives you freedom, you and your partner get to arrange the whole procedure. Everyone works at his own pace. However, now, you have to take care of things that would not be your responsibility, if the circumstances were different. Having found your dive buddy, just pay attention to some points we are about to mention and you are good to go!
GOAL: In order to start a diving session you need to have a clear goal : what am I going to see? In what depths? For how long? These are some questions that you have to go over with your buddy in your briefing. Set your boundaries clearly and remember that you do this not in order to reach them, but only to feel safe. Remember, safety first!
DIVING POINT: The first dive without a professional doesn’t have to be more challenging than it already is. Picking a well-known spot might not be that challenging or exciting. Still, it will be stress-relieving for you and it will fill you with determination.
COMPASS: Since you have already got you certification in your hands, you think that you do not necessarily have to use compass again while diving. But in this dive it will be a vital tool so that you can find your way underwater. Make sure you both know how to use it. Do some practice while being out of water, if needed. When you are ready “lock” the North in the bearing you have agreed on and don’t be afraid to trust it. You may think you are going the wrong way, but remember: a compass never lies!
SOUND & VISUAL SIGNALS: If the sound of the silver bell your instructor used during your classes is still chiming in your head, get ready to hear it once again. It is a way of making powerful sound signals, no matter how annoying they can be. It is also vital to inform the surface about your underwater position. That is why a buoy or a dsmb have to be treated as important pieces of equipment.
INFORM & BE INFORMED: Before you head out, here is a detail that might turn out to be extremely significant. Share your whole diving plan with another person. Contact them before and after the dive (This will definitely save you from the “where were you?” classic question).Now is also your chance to ask all your friends about their diving experiences. Gather every smaller or bigger bit of information and make sure to be well prepared before you begin.
Completing this dive will give you a better insight to the world of scuba diving. Perhaps diving with just a partner is a great lesson itself . The knowledge that the course of PADI Open Water Diver offers is more than enough for this experience. All it takes is some courage and adventurous spirit!
