FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a good swimmer?
You don't need to be an athlete but you do need to be a reasonable swimmer. When commencing training you will need to demonstrate that you are able to swim 200m in the pool.
Do I need a medical?
Normally not, however sub-aqua diving is a sport that requires general physical fitness and good health. Anyone with a medical history of diabetes, blackouts (epilepsy, etc), perforated eardrums, high blood pressure or heart disease, any lung or respiratory disorder (such as Asthma), or dependence on drugs, may not be able to dive safely and so MUST seek specialist advice before contemplating taking up this sport.
What equipment do I need?
You will be loaned club equipment until you achieve open water status. However, you may like to have your own mask, fins and snorkel once training starts. When you progress to training in a quarry or open sea you will eventually need your own dry suit. Your instructor will be pleased to offer advise. When you progress to open water training you will need to purchase your own equipment.
How long does it take to become qualified?
Is there anything worth seeing in UK waters?
Yes! British diving is the best in the world. There is always something worth seeing and the variety of experiences to be had in British water can't be beaten. There are shipwrecks, we have lots of vessels from the two World Wars. Some of the wrecks are surprisingly intact, but many more have become trails of debris, great to follow on a dive.
I'm not sure if Diving is for me, can I try it out?
Yes! Contact us to book one of our Try Dives to get a taster of diving.
Is diving in the UK cold?
UK water is colder then an exotic dive location however, when diving, we wear dry suits. The insulation they provide means the colder water temperature is barely noticeable. In the summer months, our water temperatures can reach 20 degrees, which is comparable to many foreign dive sites.
I need glasses, will this stop me diving?
Certainly not, many of our divers wear contact lenses or have prescription masks.
What are the advantages of BSAC club diving?
We can offer a range of benefits including: