Scuba diving specialties

SPECIALTIES

There are many kinds of specialty courses certified divers can take that will introduce them to entirely new underwater worlds. There are literally hundreds of specialties that are taught to divers; the following are just a sampling of the most popular underwater activities.

You’d be surprised at all of the different creatures you’ll be able to see at night that you can’t see during the daytime. These nocturnal creatures include octopi, certain species of fish and invertebrates. While some divers think it sounds scary at first, most find night diving to be one of their favorite underwater activities.

There’s no better way to get professional-quality results from your equipment than to take a photo or video course from a pro. Underwater photo and video students are taught proven techniques, the ins and outs of the equipment, and basic composition to help get you on your way quickly!

Knowing what you’re looking at underwater greatly enhances the enjoyment of your dives. A wide variety of courses are offered that will teach you all about the creatures you’ll encounter, ecology, protection of the environment, and more.

Nitrox is oxygen enriched air. While it may sound complicated, courses in its use are typically very short and will certify the diver to be able to use this common gas mixture that extends their bottom time and builds in safety.

In colder climates, dry suits are preferred to keep divers warmer in the water. The use of a dry suit will extend the diver’s season, enable them to dive deeper more comfortably, or extend the amount of time they are comfortable staying in the water.

This usually requires the aid of a dry suit (mentioned above), but not always! Divers enjoy exploring a winter wonderland beneath the surface of frozen lakes or ponds. Usually when there’s ice, the water is clearer than in the summer time when algae blooms. This gives freshwater divers a unique perspective on their underwater world.