One of the common concerns of scuba diving beginners is how to enter the water safely and efficiently. There are several ways that divers can properly enter the water from a boat or platform. Don’t worry if your choice of entry method is different from other divers you know, as some divers may feel more comfortable with some methods than others. The actual entry method may be influenced by the type of boat you use for diving, the depth of the dive site, water conditions, etc. The following are several methods for getting into the water for safe diving.
1. Back Roll Entry
On small boats without platforms, you can apply the back roll method. After wearing all your diving gear, sit directly on the side of the boat, facing inward. Place the regulator in your mouth, and use your left hand to hold the mask and regulator in place. Next, when you enter the water, use your right hand to hold your head so it doesn’t hit the first-stage regulator. Let yourself fall backwards while tucking your chin and pointing it towards your chest. Imagine it as a backflip into the water. When you surface, be sure to give the OK signal.
2. Giant Stride Entry
Giant Stride is the most common method used on docks and ships. Once you are wearing complete diving equipment, lift one leg forward as if you are taking a giant step and jump into the water. Once you surface, give the OK signal to your fellow divers and the boat captain.
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3. Seated Entry
This method is applied when on a low boat or unstable platform. As you prepare to enter the water via the platform or edge of the boat, start by sitting down. Lower your body into the water, using the hands on either side to lift your body up and out. This method is best applied when diving in areas close to coral reefs below. Be careful not to hit the side of your boat.
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4. Wading Entry
Wading entry is a method used to dive from the beach or offshore. To start, you have to walk backwards to navigate the dive site and drag your feet to avoid sharp rocks. This method also helps you avoid sea creatures that can harm you, such as rays. It seems easy, but in reality, being able to face the waves while walking backwards using quite heavy scuba equipment is indeed difficult. Wading until it reaches waist level with the BCD inflated and regular in its mouth, then the diver can swim.
