Kelp Surface Dive

Introduction

The kelp surface dive is a vertical method of descending underwater when scuba diving, wherein the diver enters the water feet-first. This technique is particularly beneficial in environments with heavy plant growth, such as kelp forests, or when diving to unknown depths. Additionally, some divers find it easier to equalize their ears during this type of descent due to the reduced blood pressure in the head compared to a head-first dive. This entry will discuss the kelp surface dive technique, its applications, advantages, and some safety considerations.

Background

Kelp forests are underwater ecosystems characterized by the dense growth of large, brown seaweeds known as kelp. These forests provide essential habitat for numerous marine species and play a significant role in coastal ecosystems. Diving in kelp forests can be challenging due to the dense growth and potential entanglement hazards. The kelp surface dive was developed as a response to these challenges, allowing divers to descend vertically with a minimal risk of entanglement or disorientation.

Technique

To perform a kelp surface dive, follow these steps:

1. Preparation: Before entering the water, ensure that all your diving gear is properly adjusted and secured. This includes your buoyancy compensator (BC), regulator, mask, fins, and dive computer. Make a mental note of the direction you wish to descend in order to stay oriented underwater.
2. Water Entry: Enter the water feet-first, either from a boat or from the shoreline. As you enter the water, keep your feet together and your arms extended above your head to protect your face and regulator from any impact with the surface.
3. Descent: Once fully submerged, orient yourself vertically, with your feet pointing downward and your head upward. Begin to descend by releasing air from your BC, while maintaining your vertical position. Use your fins to control your descent rate and keep your arms extended to help maintain your balance.
4. Equalization: As you descend, equalize your ears frequently to prevent discomfort or injury from pressure changes. Some divers find it easier to equalize during a kelp surface dive due to the reduced blood pressure in the head compared to a head-first dive.
5. Navigation: Throughout the descent, maintain awareness of your surroundings and the direction of your planned dive. Adjust your position as needed to avoid obstructions or heavy kelp growth. Use your dive computer to monitor your depth and stay within your planned limits.

Applications

The kelp surface dive is most often used in the following situations:

1. Diving in kelp forests: The vertical descent minimizes the risk of entanglement and allows for a more controlled entry into these dense underwater habitats.
2. Diving to unknown depths: The feet-first entry provides a more cautious approach when the depth of the dive site is uncertain, reducing the risk of injury or equipment damage from unexpected obstructions.
3. Divers who experience difficulty equalizing: The reduced blood pressure in the head during a kelp surface dive can make it easier for some divers to equalize their ears, preventing discomfort or injury.

Advantages

The kelp surface dive offers several benefits compared to a head-first dive:

1. Enhanced safety: The vertical descent minimizes the risk of entanglement in kelp or other underwater obstructions.
2. Improved equalization: The reduced blood pressure in the head can make it easier for some divers to equalize their ears during descent.
3. Greater control: The feet-first entry allows for a more controlled descent, making it easier to navigate through challenging environments or to adjust for unexpected depth changes.

Safety Considerations

While the kelp surface dive offers many benefits, it is essential to consider the following safety precautions:

1. Maintain proper buoyancy: Ensure that your BC is functioning correctly and that you are able to maintain proper buoyancy throughout your dive. This will allow you to control your descent rate and avoid uncontrolled descents or rapid ascents, which can lead to decompression sickness or other injuries.
2. Monitor your surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings and watch for potential hazards, such as entanglements, obstructions, or changes in depth. Adjust your position as needed to maintain a safe and controlled descent.
3. Equalize frequently: Equalize your ears regularly during your descent to prevent discomfort or injury from pressure changes. If you experience difficulty equalizing, ascend slightly to relieve pressure and try again. If the problem persists, abort the dive and seek medical advice.
4. Stay within your limits: It is essential to dive within your training and experience levels, and to adhere to the limits set by your dive computer and dive plan. Diving beyond your limits can lead to dangerous situations and increase the risk of injury or accidents.
5. Practice good communication: Ensure that you and your dive buddy maintain clear and effective communication throughout the dive. Establish hand signals for common scenarios, such as entanglement, difficulty equalizing, or changes in the dive plan.
6. Dive with a buddy: Diving with a buddy increases safety by providing support and assistance in case of emergencies. Make sure you and your dive buddy are familiar with each other’s equipment and have a clear understanding of the dive plan.

Conclusion

The kelp surface dive is a valuable technique for scuba divers, particularly when diving in kelp forests or to unknown depths. This feet-first descent method offers several advantages, including increased safety, improved equalization, and greater control during the descent. By following proper procedures and safety considerations, the kelp surface dive can provide an enjoyable and safe experience for divers exploring these unique underwater environments.