Joanna James
Beneath the sun-drenched pristine beaches of the Maldives that are caressed by turquoise waves of the mighty Indian Ocean, lie extensive stretches of coral reef teeming with marine life. Being prepared is key to having a spectacular first diving experience at one of those vibrant reefs.
As a diver eager to explore the underwater world in the Maldives, having an instructor such as the ones available at luxury Maldives resorts to assist you with the day and time to commence diving is important. This ensures that no unnecessary disappointments due to bad weather or underwater currents upset your plans.
Let the tank of oxygen on your back be your inspiration to inhale and exhale underwater, as you do normally on the surface. This must be the practice without holding your breath while you dive and feel relaxed.
Before venturing under the surface of the water, have a clear mind with no nagging doubts. Once below, you can't communicate. Therefore the do's and don't's must be clear before you dive in. Being informed gives you empowerment and peace of mind to your instructor as carefully observed by experienced instructors at resorts such as Heritance Aarah Maldives.
It is natural or instinctive to touch or feel seaweed or even fish so close to you. However, remember the golden rule underwater, 'look, but not touch' as what may seem like seaweed may not be so. Respect them and take care not to disturb underwater life.
With water being much denser than air, even a slight movement will require effort, effort can make you tire yourself unnecessarily. Therefore have minimum movements and save the air for your diving pleasure.
It can be your instructor or friend, have a pre-discussed understanding to be a good partner. Know your strengths and limitations as well as your partners', such as health, diving level, health, equipment status and way of communicating underwater.
Slow and steady is key when coming back to the surface. This is to not have undue pressure change on your lungs as you ascend. It is said to 'be slower than the column of bubbles' when you exhale air.
To be a safe and good diver, physical fitness and a steady mind are of paramount importance. Fitness to help you with the physical aspect of diving such as sound breathing, being relaxed. Steady mind to be quick thinking in case of an unexpected situation.
The night before your diving have an early night and refrain from heavy drinking, this discipline is to ensure a steady mind and being fit for the dive.
Discuss with your instructor prior to choosing the atoll for your first diving experience considering the type of marine life you like to experience. Do it with care as it must be a vivid and memorable experience for you.
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