If you want to learn to dive, be aware of the common misconception that diving means going deep in the ocean. While it’s technically possible to dive to great depths, many divers will opt to stay within the limits of their dive opearators due to safety.
In fact, most divers stick with the recommended preset diving depths. The institutions they enrolled with to get their certification set these recommandations.
In this article we’ll help you understand the different diving depths.
UNDERSTANDING DIVING DEPTHS
When you get your first certification as an Open Water Diver, you are permitted to dive to a maximum of 18 – 20 meters. This depth is a safety precaution. It encourages to limit the depth due to the pressure of water, and its impact on you as a scuba diver.
Unlike marine animals and the pelagics that inhabit the ocean, human lungs aren’t naturally designed to withstand the immense pressure underwater.
In addition, oxygen becomes more toxic the deeper we go. You can dive to slightly different maximum depths depending on the institutions.
The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) recommends an absolute depth of no more than 40 meters. However, the British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) allows a maximum depth of 50 meters.
SCUBA DIVING PRECAUTIONS
Despite the maximum limit of 40 meters (or 50 meters by BSAC), most divers stick to around the 10 – 30 meter mark.
Greater depths require more careful planning and additional safety precautions. The greater pressure in deeper waters expose divers to a higher risk of decompression sickness.
It also takes longer for divers to resurface as they go deeper. They need to take longer ‘No Decompression’ stops to avoid dangerous bubble build up in the blood.
Would you like to dive in Bali? We’re here to help you begin your underwater journey! Our seasonal instructors hold the PADI Certification.
