The Dive Environment

Up to this point your diving experience has been limited to the pool. Soon you'll be applying your new skills in the open water. There you'll see a world like you never experienced before, complete with vibrant colors and fascinating marine life.

The open water environment also presents unique challenges and hazards. The visibility may be limited, currents strong, or water temperature low. Understanding how to assess and cope with these and other conditions is important to your safety and enjoyment.

As a diver, you also have a responsibility to respect and protect the natural environment you're exploring. This is a sensitive world, and the slightest touch can injure a fragile organism or hundreds of years of coral growth. By respecting the environment, you'll help to preserve it for future generations.