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How Not To Get Lost While Scuba Diving: Underwater Navigation Tips

How Not To Get Lost While Scuba Diving: Underwater Navigation Tips

Written by Nevin
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Published on January 31, 2011

Navigation underwater is often one of the hardest things for a new scuba diver to grasp, and even for advanced scuba divers to get the hang of, especially when diving new sites. We are so used to following a Dive Master or dive guide that we often  don’t even bother to get our bearings or make a note of where we are in respect of the dive boat, until we are back at the anchor line, and think to ourselves “wow, how did we get back full circle, I didn’t even notice us change direction!” Well here are a few tips to help you get better at underwater navigation so you won’t get lost underwater.

Visual References

Before jumping into the water, take a few seconds to get your bearings, through some form of visual references.  Look at where the sun is positioned as that will help you determine direction underwater. Note the position of the island or the shore in relation to the boat. Note the way the island, reef or landmass slopes underwater, as this will help you determine if your starting point. Once in the water take a good look at what you boat looks like from the bottom, especially if there are several other boats in the vicinity. Once descending, either along an anchor line or not, take a few minutes once you’ve reached the bottom to note some terrain feature that will help you pin-point your boats location or the anchor line.  If you are diving a wall or a ridge, take note of the direction you intend to dive along and always keep you shoulder facing the terrain feature.

Compass Bearing

Before beginning a dive you should set the bezel of your compass to point you to the direction dive boat and in case of shore diving to the shore. In this case once the bearing is set it shouldn’t be changed during the dive and to return, one simply rotates himself in the opposite direction. If you are not familiar with how to use an underwater compass, take the time to get a Dive master or Instructor teach you this simple yet invaluable skill.

Aeris X1 Compass Module

Dive Site Briefings

Pay attention during pre Dive Briefings!! Often when diving a new dive site, the pre-dive briefing provided by the Dive Master, or Instructor is the best way to pick up relevant information about the lay of the land and key features of your dive site. Try and remember key terrain features that are pointed out and attempt to spot these while on your dive, so that in case you lose sight of the DM you’ll know exactly where you are.

Dive Site Maps

Popular dive sites always have dive site maps published, available online or at the local dive centers. Purchase a copy and study the sites, depths and features before you set off. These maps are also great as they clearly mark known marine life residents at the site, and indicate normal currents and entry and exit points.

Monterey Bay Folded Map B406

Dive Site Guide Slates

Several popular wreck dive sites or well known reef sites have waterproof guide map slates that a diver can carry with him/her on their dive as a carry with you reference.  These are great ways to know exactly where you are during your dive.

3D C-53 Felipe Xicotenabtl – Cozumel Mexico, Waterproof Dive Site Card

Draw a Map on your dive slate

Map out the dive site on a dive slate before you go and maybe chalk out an intended dive plan in the direction you want to go in for reference underwater. Take notes of your dive briefing before you jump in and its always A good idea is once you’re diving the site to note down certain landmarks on your map to find your way back easily.

Innovative Divers Slate with Split Ring