![]() Make a final assessment of conditions before diving in a tidal region. Again, there are various websites such as Windguru and Magic Seaweed that can confirm the area’s wave height, swell and likely time between waves. A tidal beach, bay or lagoon can be sheltered or exposed to the wind, creating waves and making entry, exit and visibility more challenging, so check wind conditions. The wind direction can have a big impact when shore diving in a tidal region. Time and tide wait for no man, as the old saying goes. Plan your dive for the potential maximum depth and enter as slack water approaches to maximize your dive time. In return, the visibility is usually better and there’s less distance to walk getting in and out of the water, as the water level has crept up the beach or shoreline. Diving at high-water slack means that the water may be approximately 4 to 6 feet (2 to 3 m) deeper than at low-water slack. If making a shore dive, the best time to dive is during high-water “slack,” a period of approximately one hour around the turning of the tide when there is minimal water movement. ![]() Always assess conditions before entering the water and don’t rely blindly on tables. This makes determining the precise time of a slack tide very difficult in some locations. ![]() However, a host of factors, such as physical obstructions, bays, or bottom topography can influence tides. If you don’t want to buy a book, check online lots of websites provide tidal information. This information will help you plan the best time to enter and exit the water safely. The cycles of the moon and season will determine whether the tide will be rising and falling more than usual. If you’re planning on diving in a tidal region, the strength and speed of the water movement may make diving possible only at certain times of the day.īooks on tide tables are available for most regions, and will give you crucial information on high and low water, as well as the severity of water movement. Tides and currents may have a huge impact on your dive. In some places, you may need permission to dive a wreck or enter a marine park. Note any local regulations and recommended safety precautions, whether that’s dive flags or permission from the local harbormaster or authorities to enter the water due to boat traffic.įor a boat dive, find out the best place to enter the water and, if required, where you can safely moor your boat while making the dive. If you’re making a shore dive, determine the best entry and exit points for the dive site. Google local dive forums for hints and tips. ![]() Contact local dive centers or clubs for advice. ![]() If you’re new to the area, gather information about the site you’re planning to dive. If you’re diving independently as a buddy team, how do you avoid running into problems? What’s the best way to plan for a day of diving in a tidal region? Get a local orientation Get it wrong and you may spend your dive fighting water movement or heading in the wrong direction. You’ll either drift with the current or find yourself in still waters, able to relax and enjoy your dive. Plan your dive correctly and life is easy. Currents and tidal movements have always played a crucial role in dive planning. ![]()
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