Thankfully, we’re here to simplify things with our scuba diving gear checklist. In this article we will list all of the essential gear required, as well as a list of accessories to further enhance your scuba diving experience.
A good diving mask will allow you to see with absolute clarity while underwater. While you can technically go diving without one, the refractions between light and water will blur your surroundings, making for an underwhelming experience.
Comfort is paramount when buying a diving mask, which is why many divers opt for a mask made from high-quality silicone. Silicone also moulds well around the eyes, creating a watertight seal, another vital quality of a diving mask.
If you require vision correction, you should consider purchasing a custom-made prescription lens mask to get the best out of your dives.
The primary job of a diver’s wetsuit is to provide insulation, as they help to regulate your body temperature while you’re underwater. Wetsuits are made of neoprene, which has additional practical benefits, such as buoyancy control and protections against cuts, scrapes, and stings.
The wetsuit you choose will depend on when and where you plan to go diving. Thicker wetsuits suit cooler waters, while thinner wetsuits are best for warmer areas. This is especially important to consider if you plan on going cold water diving.
A scuba tank, or scuba cylinder, is the mechanism that divers wear on their back to allow them to breathe underwater. It’s important to opt for a scuba tank that has enough capacity for the type of diving you want to do.
While frequent divers may choose to buy their own cylinder, they are usually available to rent at diving destinations. Renting is a more favourable option for tourist divers, as cylinders take up a lot of valuable luggage space.
Regulators are contraptions that reduce high pressure air from the scuba tank into breathable air, allowing divers to remain underwater for extended periods. They ensure the diver has a steady stream of air, often only providing air when divers inhale.
Without a regulator, the scuba tank would be obsolete.
While you won’t be using your snorkel while fully submerged, it’s an important piece of scuba gear to own. They are useful for conserving the supply of air in your tank while you are on the surface, affording you more time underwater.
They can also be used for surface diving, or swimming between diving sites.
Human feet just aren’t designed for propelling through water at speed, which is why having a pair of fins is essential. They help you to move through the water effortlessly, allowing you to see more of your surroundings while you still have air in your tank.
When buying a pair of fins, you’ll have to decide between open-heeled and close-heeled variations. Open-heeled fins are best for cold water diving, as they can fit over the top of dive boots. If you prefer warmer climates, close-heeled fins are the better option.
Buoyancy control devices are like jackets, and allow divers to hover in the water without sinking or rising. They are essential for making divers feel comfortable and in control.
Divers will often attach their scuba tanks onto the back of their BCD, and they often feature pockets for accessory storage.
While they may seem like an accessory, dive knives can help you free yourself, or marine life, from entanglements like fishing nets. They can also be knocked on your dive tank to get the attention of other divers if you’re in need.
A surface marker buoy, or SMB, is an important safety device used by divers, and comes in the form of a brightly coloured inflatable buoy. Divers will deploy an SMB during a safety stop or before ascension to let those on the surface know where they are.
Diving masks can be vulnerable to fogging up under the surface, a problem that can ruin the quality of your dive. Applying anti-fog spray or solution to your mask before you dive can prevent this issue.
If you’re a more experienced diver wanting to explore cave systems or dive at night, you’ll need the assistance of a dive light. Dive lights attach to your head, allowing you to see what’s in front of you.
Once you’ve used a dive computer, you’ll likely see it as an essential part of your setup. While it’s called a computer, it fits around your wrist like a watch, displaying real-time information about your dive.
This information includes:
Dive computers are an excellent accessory for staying safe and ensuring you get the most time possible underwater.
This isn’t something you’ll be taking underwater with you, but it’s always useful to have on the boat. With rock scratches and animal stings a possibility during a dive, it’s good to know you’ll be able to patch yourself up when you ascend.
Being aware of your surroundings during dives is always important, and made easier with a scuba mirror. Mirrors are usually worn on the divers hand or wrist, and allow for easy all-round vision without having to turn around.
If you require vision correction, checking off the diving mask on your scuba diving gear checklist doesn’t have to be difficult.
At Dive Sight, we offer the highest quality prescription diving masks to ensure you don’t miss a single detail of your diving adventure. There’s something for everyone in our range of masks, including children’s sizes.
Order online today or speak to our team if you require any further information or advice.
There are four main types of mask, each with different characteristics and features on offer. In this article, we’ll discuss each type, from the simplicity of the single lens mask, to the unique design of the frameless mask. We’ll also highlight which type of mask will suit you best, depending on what type of diver you are.
Single lens diving masks feature one lens covering the entirety of the mask face, giving divers a full panoramic view of their surroundings. The wide field of vision is helped by the lack of interruption over the nose, helping to provide clear visuals, especially at close range.
Having a less prominent fitting over the nose is especially beneficial for those with large nasal bridges, increasing the comfort of the mask. This can also lead to an improved fit around the face.
However, single lens diving masks aren’t the ideal option for everyone. The larger frame required to hold the lens can increase the chances of leakage for those with smaller heads and narrower faces. Depending on the design of the mask, peripheral vision may be slightly restricted.
Single lens mask top pick:
The SCUBAPRO Crystal VU mask is widely loved for its clarity of view, which outperforms its mid-range price tag. With its large lens, it offers an extraordinary field of view, while also providing adjustment features for a snug fit.
The obvious difference between dual lens masks and single lens masks is the fact that the former features two separated lenses. This can be beneficial to many in terms of the snugness of the fit, with the central nose pocket providing more security on the face.
Dual lens diving masks tend to have improved peripheral vision when compared to their single lens counterparts. This is because the dual lenses are often placed closer to the eye, minimising the negative visual effect of side panels.
As we’ve previously mentioned, the central panel holding the lenses together can slightly inhibit your central field of view. With a dual lens mask, you won’t have the uninterrupted forward visuals that a single lens diving mask permits.
Dual lens mask top pick:
It’s safe to say that the TUSA Paragon mask won’t fall within every diver’s budget. However, for the heightened price, you gain access to heightened features, including a reinforced frame and adjustment options creating a fit you’ll barely feel.
As diving masks go, full-face masks are heavy duty, concealing the entirety of the divers face from the water. Whereas most diving masks protect the diver’s eyes, with a full-face mask, everywhere is protected, which is highly useful in colder underwater climates.
Full-face masks are generally fitted with gas tanks, which allow divers to breathe through the mask. This differs from traditional scuba diving breathing apparatus, which are usually gripped within the diver’s teeth.
As you’ve probably guessed, full-face masks aren’t designed for your regular shallow ocean dives, and are instead used by professional divers and military personnel. Having the entire face covered allows divers to communicate with support teams on the water’s surface during underwater jobs and missions.
Frameless diving masks are essentially all-in-one products, with the lens being molded directly onto the skirt. This brings the lens closer to your eyes, creating an exceptional field of vision.
Frameless masks are generally a lot sleeker than single or dual lens masks, making them feel a lot less bulky while on your face. This is ideal if you have a smaller face, creating a more comfortable and secure fit.
However, as everything is attached together, if one aspect of the mask receives damage, the whole mask will have to be replaced. In comparison, single and dual lens masks often have detachable parts, making prescription lens fitting and repairs simple.
Different types of scuba divers will require different types of masks in order to get the best out of their ventures. Let’s take a look at which type of mask will suit your diving style.
Most divers hold no interest in exploring the darker, danger-ridden depths of the ocean, or even venturing near the fabled 130 feet mark. Instead, they prefer to immerse themselves in the lively, colourful ecosystems nearer to the surface. These are recreational divers.
Recreational divers tend to prefer warmer climates, good visibility, and interesting locations, making crystal clear vision a top priority. Single and dual lens scuba masks match these needs entirely, blending comfort with ease of application and great vision.
Compared to recreational diving, technical diving requires substantial expertise and specialist equipment. Technical divers will be venturing below 130 feet, sometimes exploring underwater cave systems and ship wrecks. So, they will need to ensure their mask provides a watertight seal and immaculate vision.
The tight fit of frameless masks make them a great option for technical divers, with good peripheral vision an added bonus. Full-face masks would be the ideal choice, with communication and highly reliable breathing capabilities.
Scuba diving is a lifestyle, with many travelling all across the globe to explore the beauty of far-flung oceans. This involves frequently packing up your gear and transporting it around in suitcases.
Now, trying to fit all your daily requirements into a suitcase is a challenge within itself, made harder when adding a mask into the mix. If you’re a frequent traveller, you’ll want a compact, lightweight mask.
You might think a sleek, frameless option would be best, but the risk of damage to the all-in-one structure in transport is too great. That’s why many tourist divers opt for lightweight single or dual lens masks.
For those who require visual correction, it can be difficult to find a diving mask that allows for prescription lenses. However, at Dive Sight, all our masks can be fitted with prescription lenses, ensuring you get the best out of your diving trip.
We cater for all budgets, needs, and face shapes, with children’s sizes also available, so nobody has to miss out. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you experience the thrill of underwater exploration.
With endless brands all offering a range of masks which they deem to be the best, it can be hard to sort the good from the bad.
Thankfully, we’ve compiled a list of what we believe to be this year’s best offerings, including brands such as TUSA, SCUBAPRO, Cressi and Mares. Read on to find out more about each offering, including the different fits, lens types and technologies used by the brands.
The TUSA Freedom Ceos Mask is the natural successor to the brand’s entry-level Splendive mask, with a similar fit and design. It retains the classic look of the cheaper Splendive model, but has a more robust feel and more advanced features.
These features include:
If your main priority when buying a mask is general comfort, the TUSA Freedom Ceos mask is worth your consideration. It’s highly adjustable and well-padded, meaning you’ll hardly feel it on your face when wearing it.
The SCUBAPRO Synergy 2 mask’s greatest strength is its large dual-lens design, providing its users with a wide field of vision. In fact, the size and clarity of the lenses makes this mask an ideal option for underwater photographers, as well as recreational divers.
The lenses provide exceptional clarity, with no distortion and excellent depth perception, setting you up for truly immersive dives.
The SCUBAPRO brand has become synonymous with comfort, having implemented its trademark Trufit technology into the Synergy 2 mask. Here is what Trufit has to offer:
SCUBAPRO’s Synergy 2 mask may not be the cheapest option, but its versatility, size of lens and clarity of vision make it worth the investment.
As its name suggests, the Cressi Big Eyes Evolution mask is made with the intention of giving you the largest underwater field of view possible. It does so with its Cressi patented dropped lenses which increase downward visibility by 30%.
While the lenses are large, the mask won’t feel cumbersome when it’s on your head. That’s because Cressi has implemented its High Seal technology, which is both lightweight and comfortable. High Seal silicone also keeps the mask feeling comfortable for longer, without leaving marks on your skin.
The softness of the silicone also means that the mask suits a range of sizes, appropriate for those who require a larger fit. This is a running theme among other Cressi offerings, making it a trusted company among the scuba community.
Because of Cressi’s lens design, the Big Eyes Evolution has become a popular choice among those who require prescription lenses in their scuba diving masks.
If you are pushed for cash but in need of a high-quality mask, the Mares X-VU Liquidskin is a strong choice.
It’s true to its name, providing a soft, skin-like texture to feel less like a scuba mask and more like a prosthetic attachment to your face. Mares’ Liquidskin technology is reminiscent of SCUBAPRO’s Trufit feature, utilising both a soft silicone and more rigid silicone for comfort and rigidity.
One problem repeatedly faced by divers is mask fogging, which Mares has counteracted by using an anti-fog coating on the lenses. If you want to get the best out of this feature, you will have to perform regular maintenance and careful cleaning after using the mask.
Now, as the mask falls on the cheaper end of the spectrum, you’d be rightly concerned about its durability. The mask is light, but it is surprisingly tough as well as being highly resistant to saltwater degradation. Flimsiness is an issue faced by many cheaper masks, but not the X-VU Liquidskin.
Overall, the Mares X-VU Liquidskin mask is an excellent option for those looking for a reliable but cheap scuba diving mask. It’s comfortable, damage resistant and will provide you with a clear, fog-free diving experience.
Requiring vision correction should never hold you back from witnessing the beauty of the underwater world. At Dive Sight, we specialise in providing prescription scuba diving masks to ensure you have an unforgettable diving experience.
We stock a range of products, including those listed above, to suit all face shapes and sizes. We also cater for kids, so everybody can experience the joy of underwater exploration. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you.
Whether you’re short-sighted, long-sighted or suffer from astigmatism, you can still immerse yourself in the beauty of the marine world in perfect clarity.
Join us as we discuss the pitfalls of wearing contact lenses and the benefits of kitting yourself out with a fully custom-made prescription lens mask. Oh, and we’ll also tell you why you shouldn’t even consider wearing glasses underneath your scuba mask.
It’s not recommended that you scuba dive while wearing glasses for a multitude of reasons, including:
If you do wear glasses, there’s no need to despair, you’ll still be able to dive. Let’s look at the other options available to you.
Scuba diving with contact lenses is a safer alternative to scuba diving with glasses on. However, there are risks involved, especially if you have the wrong type of lenses on. Here are how the two types of contact lenses differ when scuba diving:
It is recommended that you steer clear of hard contact lenses for scuba diving. Hard lenses don’t allow gases to penetrate, which can result in gas bubbles forming between the lens and the cornea, blurring vision during your dives. There’s also the risk of the lenses drying out while you’re underwater, due to the changes in pressure at greater depths.
On top of that, hard contact lenses leave you vulnerable if your mask were to flood. As they are smaller, they are more likely to fall out of your eyes than their softer alternatives.
Soft contact lenses are not gas-permeable, so you won’t face the issue of blurred vision due to a build-up of gas bubbles behind the lenses. They also allow nitrogen to escape, which reduces the risk of experiencing symptoms of motion sickness while underwater.
Perhaps most importantly, softer contact lenses are more comfortable when underwater, as they don’t allow oxygen in, which reduces irritation.
While soft contact lenses are the best option of the two, they are still vulnerable to issues, especially when exposed to water.
Pros:
Cons:
While scuba diving with soft contact lenses is a viable option, it pales in comparison to diving with a prescription scuba mask. Wearing a prescription scuba mask takes away any potential complications that could arise when wearing contact lenses underwater, allowing you to absorb your surroundings in perfect clarity.
Getting your own bespoke prescription mask is relatively simple, but it does leave you with a decision to make over which type you opt for. Here are the options available to you:
Getting a custom-made prescription diving mask is more of an investment, as the mask will be made to your exact specifications. However, this will ensure that your mask is tailored to your eyesight, making for perfect vision when you’re underwater.
Unlike custom-made options, ready-made prescription masks are made for standard prescriptions, making them less accurate for their user. However, this does mean that they are considerably more affordable, while still improving your underwater vision.
If you don’t want to fork out the amount of cash required to buy a custom-made mask, drop-in lens masks may be your best option. They feature removable lenses that can be replaced with prescription lenses, which is ideal for longevity, as eyesight changes over time.
Just like normal glasses, there are two main types of lenses for prescription scuba masks. These are:
Pros:
Cons:
Poor vision doesn’t have to get in the way of an unforgettable scuba diving adventure. At Dive Sight, we’re proud to provide prescription-lens scuba masks that ensure you’ll experience the surrealism of the marine world in perfect clarity.
We have a wide range of products to suit all face shapes and sizes, and all age ranges, to ensure everyone can experience the joy of diving. Contact us today to find out how we can help you.
The upcoming locations are varied, so whether you’d prefer the tropical climes of the Bahamas or the lava-filtered water of Iceland, there’s something for everyone.
Read on for eight places you should consider for your next scuba diving adventure.
Being the largest ocean sinkhole in the world, Belize’s Great Blue Hole is one of the most unique and picturesque diving spots on the planet.
Head over between April and June and you can immerse yourself among hammerhead, whale and tiger sharks, as well as sea turtles and barracuda. As well as the wildlife, you’ll be treated to dramatic limestone cave formations with large, underground chambers.
One important thing to point out is that the Great Blue Hole is not a dive for beginners. It’s dark and deep – 407 feet deep to be precise, which is beyond recreational diving limits. However, the location remains a bucket list dive for experienced divers around the globe.
If you’re into your history, particularly Second World War history, the SS Thistlegorm wreck in the Egyptian Red Sea is a must visit. The well-preserved wreckage of SS Thistlegorm, sunk by the Luftwaffe in 1941, lies 105 feet below the surface and makes for a unique exploration adventure.
Three of the ship’s cargo holds have remained intact, with divers able to find motorbikes, weaponry, cars and even a steam locomotive.
The location of the wreckage is rather remote, with visitors taking day trips from Sharm El Sheikh, starting at 4am and returning at 6pm. However, the journey is worth it once you immerse yourself in the historical importance of the area.
It’s safe to say that Silfra in Iceland is an ideal location for cold water scuba divers, with water temperatures hovering between 2-4°C all year round. This makes it a breeding ground for unique wildlife like amphipods and Arctic char.
The water in Silfra is beautifully pure, making for some of the best underwater visibility in the world. This is because it has been filtered through porous lava, which also means that it is completely safe to drink.
Reaching Silfra is simple, as it is a mere hour’s drive away from the nation’s capital city, Reykjavik.
If you’re an experienced scuba diver, the chances are that Santa Rosa Wall in Mexico will be somewhere near the top of your bucket list. We do have to emphasise the word ‘experienced’ here though, as currents in the area are unpredictable and can prove too dangerous for new divers.
Much of Santa Rosa Wall’s appeal comes from its topography, with natural coral swim-throughs and, of course, the sheer drop over the wall.
It’s also a top location for wildlife, hosting sea turtles, sponges, lobsters, groupers and more. All of which you’ll be able to clearly spot as the area is great for high-visibility dives.
Tiger Beach in the Bahamas is a hotspot for shark enthusiasts, due to its reliability for tiger shark sightings. Divers, if they have the nerve, can partake in the once-in-a-lifetime experience of swimming alongside the sharks.
This is a much safer activity than it sounds, as tiger sharks are used to human interaction in the area. However, visitors are heavily encouraged to bear in mind that these creatures are predators and should be treated with absolute respect.
As Tiger Beach is a shallow sand flat, it isn’t the place to go if you’re looking for complex rock and cave systems. On the other hand, if you’re a shark or general wildlife enthusiast, it’s a prime location.
While Tiger Beach is ideal for spotting tiger sharks, Tonga is the place to go if you want to swim alongside humpback whales. Humpback whales are known for their mild temperaments, making it a far less intense experience than swimming alongside sharks.
Tonga is known for its natural beauty too, with an abundance of coral and dramatic rock formations to be found in its waters.
The area is also renowned for its consistency. Water temperatures very rarely stray outside of 27-29°C no matter the season, with diving conditions also being consistent throughout the year.
As its name suggests, Barracuda Point off Sipadan Island in Malaysia is known for the huge schools of barracuda that gather there. The area’s strong currents also bring in a variety of sharks, including grey reef sharks and hammerheads.
One of Barracuda Point’s most appealing features is its incredible visibility, with divers able to see up to 100 feet in front of themselves.
This visibility allows divers to take in the area’s extreme natural beauty. The water around the island is home to some of the most incredible coral formations in the world, further justifying your visit.
The Fjords, dotted all over Norway, are as beautiful underneath the water's surface as they are above it. Coral reefs are accessible at shallow-enough depths, with marine life such as anemones and flounders easy to spot thanks to the clear Norwegian water.
You can also swim alongside wild orcas, which despite their alternative name of killer whales, have never been reported to attack humans in the wild.
The Fjords are also excellent for wreck divers, with the wreckages of dozens of Second World War-era shipwrecks able to be explored.
If you’re worried about missing out on your next scuba diving adventure because of bad eyesight, you needn’t. At Dive Sight, we offer top-rated prescription dive masks to help you fully immerse yourself in the scuba experience.
We have a range of products to suit all face shapes and sizes, even offering children’s goggles, so nobody has to miss out. Order online today or contact our team if you have any questions.
I’m sorry, but it had to be done at some point! There’s been so many times over the past few months that I’ve been tempted to use a cheesy phrase, as I have written about all things diving. From our prescription dive masks and diving schools, to the best dive sites in the UK and internationally. So, I think I’ve done pretty well to hold off until now!
On a slightly more serious note, though, even throughout the pandemic, you have continued to order prescription lenses for your own scuba diving masks, snorkelling masks and bespoke prescription dive masks supplied by us.
And of course, we have been honoured that you continue to come to us for advice, as well as recommending us more and more often to your friends and diving companions. Oh yes, we notice these things.
So, as we’ve been upgrading some of our website pages recently, I have spent more time than I can usually spare to check our customer feedback.
Now, please don’t think that I don’t notice everything that comes through our social media channels and other messages, because I do.
What I mean is, I stepped away from my usual days’ work and it was as I was reading the comments, recommendations and thank you messages that the subject for this blog sprang to mind – so it’s actually your fault!
I still like to think of myself as the same fit, agile teenager I used to be. But having been in this industry for a little longer than I often care to remember, it’s easy to forget the level of detail we have accommodated within some of your individual requirements over the years.
Oh, and the faraway places around the world that our prescription dive masks have been delivered to!
So, taking the time out to truly appreciate your feedback not only keeps us on our toes, but it also takes us back through the years, and reminds us not only of how far we have come in terms of the specialist optical technology we now have at our fingertips, but also of your loyalty to me and Dive Sight.
“I’ve been using Dive Sight lenses in my masks for 20 years… the lenses outlast my masks, and my masks last about 10 years … The lenses were an investment, designed to last.”
We are proud to say the experience we have amongst the team, both as divers and optical technicians, means we have become the UK’s leading manufacturer of prescription dive masks.
Youngsters and novice or recreational divers, through to full-time professional diving instructors and marine photographers and cameramen, you will be treated with the same expert care, and knowledge of what diving has to offer.
As an experienced diver myself, here at Dive Sight we understand that you and your dive buddy need to feel safe and secure in your underwater surroundings, to have 100% reliable and clear vision of your computer and tables and be able to capture the very best of every scuba dive.
So, with this in mind, I would love to share just some of our existing customer comments, firstly to show our appreciation for your feedback, and secondly to encourage you to contact us if you are in any doubt as to whether we can improve your underwater vision and create a whole new scuba diving experience for you.
By discussing your bespoke dive lens requirements, we can supply and fit them to your own dive mask. We simply ask you to send us your mask, and we do all the rest.
“Liam was attentive and really helped me understand what benefits I could get from each type [of] lens.”
“Ordered my lenses for fitting into my own mask in January and it was back with me in 3 weeks – great lenses added quality to the next dive holiday.”
As you will see from some of the comments here, we take great pride in the level of service and expertise in ensuring your lenses are fitted securely and effectively. We chuckled when we saw one of our customer comments about no longer needing to make his arm longer or look through squinting eyes! But it’s so true.
How long have you just ‘put up with’ seeing what you can? Making do with whatever adjustments and workarounds you can create? All because you didn’t realise there was a much better alternative available!
You will be amazed to find out how much more you experience from each dive when you finally put aside the discomfort and instability of wearing your contact lenses beneath your dive mask, using temporary lenses, or take the plunge and leave your usual prescription glasses on the boat when you dive for the first time with a professionally manufactured bespoke prescription dive mask.
“Just tried my prescription mask for the first time this weekend. Excellent! What a difference reading gauges … went for bifocals, the fit is perfect.”
“Great service and a great dive mask with bifocal lenses and a cyl for astigmatism.”
“… I have a very high long sighted prescription. Roughly +8 each eye. I also have a slight astigmatism. No issues with lenses, they’re surprisingly thin. Everything is sealed nicely. No complaints from me ...”
They say ‘the proof is in the pudding’ right? Well, as you can see from just these few comments, no eyesight problem is too much of a challenge for us.
Whether you have long-sightedness, short-sightedness, astigmatism, visual deterioration of any type, as another customer says:
“… Great quality and service cannot fault at all. Anyone needing prescription lenses would be mad to go anywhere else. The best, thank you.”
“Excellent quality and workmanship, great advice and customer service. I always recommend this company to our dive club members and professional dive team.”
“All those years of mucking about with stick in lenses, losing them. We have all been there at some point. Should [have] done this years ago, worth the money ….”
Absolutely! Not only are we the UK’s leading manufacturer and provider, but we have customers all around the world, living the diving dream!
It would be very short-sighted of us (sorry!) to limit our prescription dive masks to our fellow divers here in the UK. Afterall, we know many of you have experienced some of the most amazing sights around the globe and have taken your time to recommend us to dive buddies you’ve met on your travels.
Whilst not always in control of the postage system, we make sure you are kept up to date with the progress of your mask at our end, and then use the most efficient delivery methods to meet the standards throughout the rest of our business.
“I would totally recommend them. I will never use anyone else, even though I live in Cyprus.”
“No problem shipping to me on the other side of the planet.”
The last thing we would want is for you to be the last one saying, “I didn’t realise how much I had been missing during my dives, until I put my new prescription lens mask on. Wish I had done it sooner.”
By contacting one of the team here at Dive Sight today, to talk through any of your queries or specific prescription requirements, you are guaranteed not only the highest quality product, but also the best levels of customer service and attention.
Just imagine, no more listening to the rest of the dive party wax lyrical about the spectacular sights they’ve seen, realising you saw nothing but “blurry images of fish and coral.”
Your entire underwater world will transform, right before your eyes, as our final customer comment proves,
“The quality of the lenses are excellent, and the mask has transformed my diving experience … allowing me to go further in my certifications ….”
Go ahead and see for yourself how much investing in bespoke lenses or a prescription dive mask from Dive Sight will benefit every diving experience from now on. Contact us and we promise you’ll never look back!!
It could soon be ‘anchors away’ for scuba diving internationally once again. And I, for one, will be welcoming the opportunity to hop on that plane with open arms.
In fact, start searching for the best diving experiences and locations for dream scuba diving and snorkelling holidays for 2022, and already we’re drowning in an ocean of recommendations!
But what can we do to prepare, and how do we know which dive sites are going to be best for us?
Deciding what you want from your holiday might sound an obvious tip. But I know how easy it is to get carried away visualising the crystal clear waters and shimmering sand beneath miles of eerie yet spectacular wrecks, and being surrounded by an abundance of colourful marine life.
Unless you’re going solo, or your entire family are lovers of the underwater world, don’t forget there are others in your party to consider too. You might be new to diving and simply want a few days scuba diving internationally, spending the rest of the time with your family. Or you might want to plan activities for them whilst you dive every day.
So, not only are the safest and highly rated dive centres on your tick-list, but also other trips and fun things to do in and around the water for the rest of the family (I had to include that so as not to get hounded by my family for forgetting to mention the ‘not quite so enthusiastic about diving’ travellers!)
Our boys have just started snorkelling lessons, so we’re preparing them for the next steps well in advance!
Regardless of whether it’ll just be you, or others in your holiday party too, consider starting here in the UK before setting off for international dive sites.
Earlier posts have highlighted the best dive locations in the UK. If you can encourage the novices in your family to dip their toe in the water before your foreign travels, build up their hours and safe diving knowledge, then what better way to spend your holiday than diving together in warmer climates?
Gaining your Open Water Diving Certification in this country will enhance your holiday, as you can get straight out there and enjoy your scuba diving internationally without spending any time studying or being that little bit more restricted. Of course, if you are already qualified, there is no harm in adding to your diving hours at home anyway. You can never have too much experience.
I’ve also written recently about the top diving agencies to gain your Open Water Diving Certification if you did want to wait and qualify overseas, as I know for some people the thought of diving in UK waters just doesn’t have that same appeal as scuba diving internationally!
Personally, I would encourage you to just get started though, and there are things you can do to prepare for your trip. Online studying, as I mentioned, will cut down on the classroom time when you land at your destination. And of course, making sure you have your kit prepared is key.
If you feel overwhelmed with the choices of UK scuba diving schools, any of the team here at Dive Sight will be happy to give you expert recommendations.
As a beginner, or a seasoned diver, fully functioning equipment is essential. If you are a true diving geek, there’s plenty of choice and ranges to keep you going. For beginners or those of you who are likely to be diving on a recreational basis, you could hire equipment from a dive centre. But I’ve listed the basic essentials if you did want to think of investing in your own gear:
This is the most vital piece of kit for any diver. Not just so you get the best out of every dive in terms of the sights you’ll see and a comfort factor. But it is imperative that you have clear vision of your apparatus, your dive buddies, and the surroundings to keep you all safe. This is even more crucial if you are scuba diving internationally and in waters which are unfamiliar to you.
Dive Sight is the premier supplier of prescription dive masks, not just here in the UK, but around the globe.
Your eyesight, or lack of, is one thing you don’t need to worry about when gathering your diving equipment, because we use your personalised prescription to supply and fit lenses to your favourite mask. Alternatively, we will help you choose a new one from our range of quality masks, and fit your prescription lenses at the same time.
Just contact us to talk through any queries you have, and we can set to work right away, so you’ll be ready to see every single spectacle that scuba diving internationally has to offer.
Although not the favourite piece of kit, a snorkel helps conserve gas in your tank, and also conserves your own energy too if you are waiting in choppy waters for your dive boat to take you back to shore. It’s also a good addition to your full kit if you are surface swimming for long periods.
If you are unsure about choosing a snorkel, Dive Sight also offer dive mask and snorkel sets, so check out the online shop for more details.
Of course, nothing will quite give you the feeling of gliding smoothly through the water like perfectly fitting fins. Although they’re designed to be worn barefoot, some divers prefer to wear neoprene socks to prevent blisters from the movement during long dives.
You can choose from open heel, full foot, long or short blade, channel, split fin, hinge and pivot, and they come in a variety of lengths too. Channel fins are most popular and relatively low cost.
Scuba diving fins are different from snorkelling fins. The longer the blade, the more propulsion through the water you will gain, although this can sometimes counter the need for shorter blades when it comes to packing for scuba diving internationally, or if you are travelling with rucksacks for instance to get to your dive site.
It's definitely worth taking the time to research the most effective diving fins for your individual needs.
This is another item which is best personalised if you are going to be diving regularly. You could hire for your first few dives, but it would be nice to know the mouthpiece is hygienic and you know exactly what the regulator has been through. All regulators are designed to work efficiently in warm waters, but you may need specific ratings for colder waters (below 10 C) such as in the UK.
N.B. Most regulators require servicing at least once a year. More frequent use will keep your regulator flexible and lubricated, so it’s even more important to remember servicing if you have barely used it during the previous 12 month period.
Buoyancy Control Device (also called a BC, buoyancy compensator) is particularly useful for recreational divers as it literally does what it says on the tin. A good fitting BCD will adjust buoyancy within the water to suit your needs – positive, negative, or neutral – to keep you safe and comfortable in whatever depth of water you are diving or swimming.
With so many styles and designs to choose from, a recent review of the Top 10 BCDs by scubadiving.com might help you to decide.
Did you know that water removes heat from the body about 20 times quicker than air? So, although walking around a resort or laying on a beach in 70 degree heat may feel amazing, scuba diving internationally even in a constant 70 degree water temperature, you’d soon start to feel cold in the water. The greater the difference between our body heat (just below 100 degrees Fahrenheit) and the water temperature around us, the quicker the body heat is lost. Hence the need for an exposure suit to help retain some of that body heat. But they also protect against sunburn, and scrapes and scratches which would otherwise be easily picked up from sharp edges of marine structures or undersea wrecks.
Again, as with all diving equipment now, there is so much variety that your choice of wet suit, dry suit or dive skin will come down to personal choice, what kind of diving you are intending, and where. They each have slightly different purposes, so frequent and professional divers tend to have at least one of each type.
Novice and recreational divers though would be recommended to go for a general purpose wet suit which can be used effectively in almost all diving environments.
Gone are the days of reading dive charts so you know your depth and how much time you can safely continue diving with the remaining gas in your cylinder. Nowadays there are hundreds of types of dive computers available, no matter how advanced your level of diving experience may be.
Designed to look like a watch, and indeed some of them are also used as a regular watch, your dive computer needs to be highly durable, easy to use with an easy read screen, and give you the vital safety information such as ascent rate and decompression stops, gas mix, and accuracy that you cannot be sure of with human calculations. With optional Bluetooth connectivity and colours to match the rest of your dive paraphernalia, you can ensure your dive computer will keep you safe and stylish when scuba diving internationally or in UK waters!
Every piece of apparatus you purchase will only make for a more confident and comfortable experience. You can buy scuba diving equipment packages, but one thing we highly recommend taking the time and effort to discuss in detail is your dive mask.
As I mentioned above, your dive mask is the most important piece of kit, and we want to make sure it feels comfortable and allows you the best all round experience. With a personalised prescription lens fitted to your mask, you are guaranteed to never miss a single detail with every dive.
From children and entry level, to experienced or professional divers, we literally provide prescription dive masks for all. Years of experience in the industry means we have pretty much seen it all and answered just about every imaginable question too.
So, drop us a message or call our team here at Dive Sight if you have any queries or would like to go ahead and order your bespoke prescription dive mask. We’ll make sure you are ready for scuba diving internationally in 2022, with plenty of time to spare!
Is scuba diving something you’ve dreamed of, but don’t know where to start? Are you a diving enthusiast wanting to take your skills to the next level? Maybe, it’s been a while since you disappeared off to an underwater world, and could do with a bit of a safe diving refresher? Then this blog is just for you! As an experienced diver myself, I’m often asked where to find the best diver training and who the main dive certification agencies are.
So, read on if you are teetering on the edge, or hoping to expand your knowledge enough to potentially make a career out of your passion for diving.
Before you know it, you could be out there finding all sorts of hidden treasures, enjoying the experience as an entire family, instead of being the one left holding the bags on the beach.
It can even turn into a full-time job, here in the UK or off foreign shores, if your dreams stretch that far.
Having dived for many years and catering for my customers’ underwater vision challenges all day long here at Dive Sight, I can tell you, there is so much more to learning to dive than you might think.
Any Dive Instructor goes through weeks and weeks, if not more, of rigorous training. They need to be competent not only keeping themselves safe at all depths underwater, but also be able to spot signs of danger and panic, or an emergency with breathing equipment, in their groups. Something you need to learn about too, to keep you and your dive buddy safe, as well as the technicalities of the equipment.
So, by learning to dive with one of the main five dive certification agencies, you are guaranteed training of the highest standard, covering safety, technical, and practical information you need to truly enjoy a whole lifetime of diving ahead of you.
It’s exciting and very achievable once you find the right place to learn.
Although the basic diving skills are the same at entry level, dive certification agencies may then offer slightly different teaching styles and formats, depending on their procedures and students’ requirements.
I’ll start with PADI, who offer training for a more recreational diver.
PADI is the most recognised of the dive certification agencies and worldwide dive training organisations, having signed off over 60 million diving certificates. This makes it the largest training agency in the world, certifying 78% of all divers.
Their trademark The Way the World Learns to Dive® begins often with a ‘Discover Scuba Diving’ half-day diving experience. This doesn’t lead to a dive certification, but it allows you to test the waters, so to speak, in a pool or safe pool-like environment. There is an option of an open water dive too if you want to move straight on.
The PADI Open Water Diver certification, though, takes you on a bigger journey, and allows you to dive anywhere in the world. Three options are available for you to work towards your scuba diving certificate:
There are some great deals by combining your scuba diving course with one of the 500 PADI worldwide resorts. Check them out when we’re safe to travel again.
And it’s not just for adults.
PADI also cater for the children with their Bubblemaker or Seal Team classes. From eight years up, there’s nothing stopping them from joining in. A great way to start, and in either a pool or other confined water area, they’re bound to have fun, and you can relax knowing they’re safe!
And the over 10s can go all out for the Open Water Diver course and earn the Junior Open Water Diver certificate. What’s not to love?!
SSI is another of the globally recognised dive certification agencies, offering recreational dive training, along with technical training, for over 45 years.
Personalised diver training is based on their Diver Diamond Methodology, focusing on knowledge, skills, equipment, and experience. And with a unique approach of ‘Comfort through Repetition’ you can be assured of heaps of hands-on practice to hone your hobby!
Once you have graduated with your Open Water Diver certificate, you can dive anywhere around the world. Or choose to go on to wreck diving, free diving, deep diving and you can even become an SSI Ocean Mermaid!
And with the My SSI App you’ll receive digital training materials, online dive log, and your certificates will be uploaded once you qualify.
There’s plenty of scope if you want to check out SSI as an option.
NAUI have been training ‘the best divers in the world’ since 1960. With their motto of ‘Dive Safety Through Education’ you can see why they’re not only one of the most popular, but they’re also the leaders amongst non-for-profit dive certification agencies.
If NAUI is the training agency you choose, rest assured you will be super safe. Their leaders must meet specific standards, and all training is based around the concept, of “Would I allow this person to teach, or dive, with someone I love?”
NAUI courses cater for all levels, so whether you are a first timer or an experienced diving enthusiast, you can always increase your skills and ability to become a more secure and independent diver. You might even consider progressing to making diving your career - search and rescue diving, or specialist underwater jobs, such as ecology or archaeology.
And as possibly one of the most flexible of the dive certification agencies, NAUI offer other training programmes specific to their students’ needs – from night diving, deep diving, cave diving, and ice diving
Your choice of dive certification agencies really depends on what you want to get out of your diver training. And next on our list of the main five, is the BSAC.
From a complete novice to an experienced diver, BSAC literally have a raft of Internationally recognised training standards on offer.
You start with Ocean Diver for entry level, core skills, taking you to a maximum depth of 20 metres in open water, both in the UK and abroad; then Sports Diver which covers more challenging open-water skills, to 35 metres; Dive Leader training is available if you want to further progress in both skills and technical techniques, as well as being able to lead your own dives; and the highest standard of certification is First Class Diver.
Along with more than 30 Skill Development Courses (SDCs) BSAC instructors encourage your training to be taken at your own pace. Which is why, if you don’t cope with time restrictions or pressure of learning too much at once, then holiday diving courses aren’t for you.
The best way to start is by finding your local BSAC Club to give it a try if you’re not 100% sure.
And last, but by no means least, is SDI. Possibly one of the most innovative and modern of the dive certification agencies, offering entry level to advanced dive training since opening their hatches in 1998.
Known for their ‘no nonsense’ approach to diving instruction, SDI know how quickly diving changes and progresses with the times. So, their dive training includes the most modern learning materials with awesome photography and graphics, really enhancing your learning experience
SDI focus on making diving a true family experience, so their training goes through from the Open Water Diving certificate, Advanced Diver, Rescue Diver, Master Diver and SDI Dive Master – you really can stretch your skills and experience with SDI. And if you want to share your love for the diving experience with others, the final stage for you could be SDI Instructor Trainer.
Of course, you should also remember that water is one of the greatest body, mind, health, and fitness tools we have access to.
Your life will be truly enhanced whether you take up diving as a hobby, sport or on a more professional level. And it’s open to everyone (provided you can swim to a basic level), even if you have mental or physical disabilities or eyesight problems.
No matter where you learn to dive, or step up to the next level, with all the dive certification agencies I’ve mentioned, you can be certain your safety, underwater knowledge and skills, and your overall diving experience are at the heart of what they teach. So, once you’ve decided to take the plunge, call Dive Sight for any help you need with underwater vision. With a personalised prescription dive mask, we’ll make sure you don’t miss a thing!
So, you’ve accepted that you might need some visual ‘help’ underwater. Your dive buddies appear to be dangerously further away with every dive. The views beneath the water are not so crystal clear as they used to be. And you have been struggling with the change between seeing underwater at a distance and then reading your gauges. A prescription dive mask is the way forward. And, now you have a decision to make as to which lenses would suit you best.
So, if you are looking for some help with how to choose between a bifocal or Franklin Split lens, then this blog will guide you through why bifocals add to the experience when diving; a little bit more about the standard bifocal and Franklin Split options; and how to take the next steps to prepare for your most visually awesome dives so far!
As if we don’t have enough to think about as we start to age, when we hit our 40’s, it’s sad but true that our eyesight gradually, but increasingly, loses focus on objects even close to us.
For diving this means our gauges, computers, and potentially the signs and signals from our dive buddies too. So, not only does it mean less than inspiring diving experiences as time goes on and might even start to become disheartening rather than the ultimate in underwater experiences we were used to. But it could also mean danger to ourselves and others if ignored for too long.
For many of our customers though, long distance vision is also a problem. So, for distance correction and in the case of Astigmatism, bifocals are often prescribed.
And the best news is that you don’t just get the best vision on land by using bifocals. We can also fit your exact prescription bifocal lenses to your dive mask too.
Bifocal lenses are certainly not new. In fact, it was long believed to be Benjamin Franklin in the late 18th century who cut two pairs of lenses in half, and put them together, horizontally, so he could see objects close to him, whilst also retaining his distance vision, without having to carry both pairs of spectacles with him. Genius!
Over time, although we now know it might not have been Franklin himself who was the first to try it, the concept became known as the Franklin Split lens. The name has stuck, and it has become a firm favourite, for good reason!
When it comes to diving, we’ve explained in an earlier blog how everything you see through your mask is already magnified by around 33%. So, any minor visual impairments are rectified.
For more serious conditions such as double vision and astigmatism, and more severe short and long-distance sight problems a bifocal lens bonded inside your mask will create a whole new perspective for you. You don’t want to be using your usual glasses tucked inside your mask. And losing your contact lenses underwater is the last thing you want to be concerned about when all you want to do is safely enjoy the surroundings and overall experience.
If you’re skim reading this article (and I know we don’t all have the benefit of time to spare for lots of reading), take note here, as this next section really could help you with how to choose between a bifocal or Franklin Split lens!
If you’re just starting out and maybe a little unsure as to whether you can even handle bifocals underwater, because they do take some adjustment and getting used to even on dry land afterall, then a standard bifocal diving mask may well be the one for you. Although it comes down to personal preference and the width of underwater vision you are wanting.
The standard bifocal lens is based on your current distance prescription. Great for those of you who need some close up help for gauges, and distance vision correcting.
But it can be restrictive due to its size. Without going into the full technical detail, the reading lens is 28mm wide, although that doesn’t necessarily mean you will have visibility through that full segment. The width of vision you will have from that lens depends on the design of your mask. For instance, if your mask has a high angle from the nose piece, bifocals are not recommended, as the area you can read through is reduced.
You might want to consider going for something slightly more beneficial in the long run.
The Franklin Split lens is exactly that – two different lenses. The top is for distance and the bottom is for reading. And because both lenses are full width, this type of lens provides a much wider reading area than other standard bifocals.
Although the Franklin Split might not be perfect for all styles of spectacle frame, they are the ultimate bifocal diving mask.
Not just a favourite for regular expert divers looking for the best all-round diving experience (the Franklin Split is also known as the ‘Executive bifocal’ by the way), but it’s also one of the most popular with professional marine photographers and underwater cinematographers. And, trust me, those guys seriously need precise vision beneath the water to see every minuscule detail before they can even start to capture it on film!
If you are still on the fence over how to choose between a bifocal or Franklin Split lens, let me offer some final guidance as a fellow diver, and having been in the business of providing the highest quality UK manufactured prescription diving masks for many years, I see it from all angles (pardon the pun).
A Franklin Split lens gives you the widest possible or ‘edge to edge’ near vision, without compromising and distorting any of the quality or view. This, at the same time as correcting your distance vision too (the view even for those with double vision and astigmatism can also be improved).
But another huge bonus over the standard bifocal is that the Franklin Split is great for higher prescription requirements, as it can allow for more glass than would otherwise be possible with a thicker standard single bifocal lens.
Always happy to talk your dive plans or problems through with you before you make any final decisions, you will notice the genuine interest and enthusiasm we have for our customers here at Dive Sight.
With many years’ experience in this industry, we ensure you have not only the most appropriate mask for your diving now and in future, but we also manufacture your lenses according to your bespoke prescription. And if you already have your own tried and trusty mask, we will fit the lenses to that for you.
Check out our ordering process, which is simple and straightforward, whether for lenses alone (you send us your mask for the prescription Franklin Split lenses to be fitted), or to purchase one of our range of dive masks at the same time.
Your safety, comfort, and enjoyment whilst diving is what we are here to cater for, and what Dive Sight is all about. We can provide prescription dive mask solutions for all eyesight conditions, so nobody need miss out on the spectacle that is the underwater world!
We hope you have enjoyed reading how to choose between a bifocal or Franklin Split lens and look forward to hearing from you if you have any further queries or would like to comment on this or any of our other blog posts.
We might be getting to the point here in the UK where last year’s distant dream of diving in the warmth of tropical waters is getting oh, so close. But it’s still that little bit too far away to make any firm plans. And we don’t want you to lose out on your scuba diving experiences in the meantime just because luxurious locations such as the Maldives and Mexico are still on the ‘red’ list! Quite the opposite, in fact, with over 11,000 miles of coastline, and some of the best UK dive sites just waiting to be explored, what better time is there for an entire family staycation, or a short trip away by yourself in this country, than when there’s little by way of distractions or glitzy foreign alternatives?
If you thought diving in the UK would be boring, with little to see beneath our slightly err ‘cloudier’ waters, I can honestly say you will be amazed. And with the opportunity to learn new skills right here on your doorstep, why not introduce the rest of your family to scuba diving too?
Imagine the difference it will make to your holidays when we are allowed to travel further afield if you have your loved ones joining your dives, rather than feeling guilty about leaving them on the beach, at kids’ club, or even worse, you having to miss out altogether because of other planned family activities!! So, get them started before the world opens up once more, and you’ll never look back.
I have written about five great sites in this country in an earlier blog. But just to prove it really is possible to enjoy a staycation AND up your diving hours with some amazing views and experiences, here’s another five UK dive sites to add to your list. And if you can’t strike a deal or encourage the family to take you up on a new challenge, then there’s some awesome sightseeing and surroundings for them to visit too.
Down on the south coast of England, Brighton, Shoreham, and Worthing might not be places you would naturally think of when it comes to scuba diving. The tourist experience in Brighton includes the Pavilion, Brighton Beach and the entertainments on Brighton Pier, The Lanes for quirky shopping, a great choice of boutique restaurants, and an amazing night life to enjoy.
But from a diving perspective, a wreck sitting at the bottom of eight to 12 metres of water, about one mile off Worthing Pier, is one of the most visited diving sites.
The Indiana Wreck is what remains of a British steam ship which sank in 1901 on a return journey from Sicily. Full of oranges and lemons, she collided with a German steam ship in foggy conditions. Although levelled soon after the collision, much of the vessel remains visible with numerous metal plates housing fish, crustaceans, conger eels and even large sea bass which are often seen in the summer months.
A vast array of colourful marine life, great surroundings, and plenty of other wrecks make this area of the south of England an absolute must if you're looking for fantastic UK dive sites and staycations!
Heading on down to the southwest, you will come across Falmouth Bay, which is a beautiful area for divers of all levels. Falmouth offers over 300 beaches - dog friendly and family friendly, so the rest of the family can relax if they’re not joining you underwater!
You’ll find an abundance of shallow and offshore dives on offer here, and some popular night dives for scuba divers and snorkelers too. Falmouth Bay is home to several ships which were towed there to be salvaged to clear them from the busy shipping lanes and have now created an amazing marine life to be explored.
Castle Beach and Pendennis are famous for WW1 submarine wrecks such as the Hera, suitable for beginners, with a vast array of underwater magic by way of sponges, dead man’s fingers, fans, and you are likely to see cuttlefish, dogfish, and thornback rays at certain times of the year.
Stretching further across the South West Coast Path, the Helford River and Falmouth Estuary are firm favourites amongst UK dive sites because of the marine wildlife and wrecks. But just as popular for families not partaking in the diving experience with Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Walking the coastal paths, enjoying picnics, and just revelling in fresh air in the most awe-inspiring scenery will make for a great all-round holiday.
If you head down to the most southerly point in England, the Lizard Peninsula, you’ll find some excellent diving opportunities with wrecks, reefs, and marine life in abundance. Depending on the time of year you choose to go, you could get to see basking sharks, porpoises, and bottlenose dolphins. But do take note of the guidance to ensure you get the best experience and avoid scaring the sea creatures with too much noise.
Porthkerris Reef is an extremely popular shore dive, with jewel anemones, starfish, sea urchins, and kelp. Suitable for all ranges of diving expertise with visibility ranging between 15 – 50 feet (five to 15 metres) and depths between 10 – 50 feet (three to 15 metres).
You’ll also be gifted with various wrecks to dive in and out of. The Camarthan which hosts an abundant marine life in her ‘nooks and crannies’ but watch out for the tides. If you can catch the slack water, visit the Citrine, which now lies upside down at about 59 – 82 feet (18 – 25 metres). And with over 200 wrecks around The Manacles, this area will keep you happily distracted with spectacular underwater sights whilst the rest of your holiday party enjoy the landscape, sandy beaches, clifftops and of course traditional Cornish Pasties, Crumbly Yarg Cheese, and Clotted Cream Teas!
Beachy shore dives, such as St Brides and Martins Haven, and numerous wrecks like the Dakotian (20 metre depth) and the Lucy and Drina at more challenging depths (40 and 60 metres) are to be found coming back up the west side of the country with the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. A rich marine life exists around this area, along with the possibility of seeing blue sharks, dolphins, octopus, conger eels, lobsters, rays, starfish and much more.
Not only is the scenery and diving worth visiting, but also, the island of Grassholm is home to one of the largest Gannet populations in the world. And if you can get to The Smalls Lighthouse, you’ll experience playful seals amongst the fabulous coastal seascapes.
The Menai Strait separates Anglesey from the mainland, and hitting the water from the Menai Bridge, divers can experience drift diving in the tidal waters. With the movement here there is masses of anemones, feed sponges, and colours to amaze divers of every level.
The only downside here is that the tides can be quite strong, so it is advisable to take the plunge for the first time from a local dive centre, just to be safe and learn the best techniques. But once you’re comfortable, then you’ll be free to go and explore what the Welsh waters have to offer.
And if your buddies don’t fancy diving with you, there is so much by way of history, ancient ruins, coastal walks, and remote beaches, they’ll not be bored whilst you’re admiring what they can’t reach from the shore!
So, as you’ll see, the Southern and South Westerly spots really do provide a win-win staycation. With shopping, sights, and scenery for all. And with some of the best UK dive sites for all levels of experience, it is not at all surprising that UK holidays are providing some quite unexpected inspiration and helping create memories to put the stresses and strains of 2020 far behind us now.
Don’t forget, if you struggle with your underwater vision, we are here to offer guidance, expert advice, and the absolute best in prescription lenses for all your diving needs. If your children do decide to join you, we even have the most effective lenses for their little masks too, so nobody need miss out on phenomenal UK dive sites and some surprisingly memorable diving experiences. Call Dive Sight today for a friendly chat, and we’ll make sure you really do make the most of UK diving, right down to the finest detail.
