Published November 17, 2016 | Diving, Duiken

Most divers consider a strong current during a dive a nightmarish scenario. In the said nightmare, the current comes in suddenly and pushes them out to sea separating them from the dive group and their buddy as well. However, there are things you can do if dive in a strong current that will make it manageable.  To begin with it is prudent to only dive when you are comfortable with the diving conditions – If you are not comfortable diving in a strong current, then it may be best to find an alternative site. If that is not possible, consider diving on a different day when the conditions are better.

dive in a strong current

If however, the current suddenly picks up, it is important that you know what to do. Here are some things to remember:

  • Find shelter – If there is an object close by that you can shelter behind, do that. Alternatively, swim closer to the reef, the bottom of the ocean or even a wreck as this will reduce the effects of the current.
  • Drift – If there is an exit point that you know of down-current, it may be a good idea to convert to a drift dive. This way you simply go with the current.
  • Complete your dive – If you cannot find a shelter and drift diving is not an option, then it will be best to call it a day and end the dive.

Swept Away
If the currents are so strong as to sweep you away, it is possible that you will be separated from your dive party. Here are some things that you can do:

divers - dive in a strong current

  • Stay Calm – not panicking will help you to better assess the situation you find yourself in.
  • Don’t fight the current – If the current sweeping you along is strong, then it is best not to fight it. The best option in this situation is to simply ride the current because it will likely not keep going in that strength for long. If you decide to swim, swimming against it will be the worst thing to do. Try to swim out of it instead by swimming to either side, down to the bottom or up.
  • Go to the surface – Do this at your usual pace. If you were diving with a boat, then you want to launch your DSMB at 5 meters and then wait to be picked up. If you had no boat, simply inflate your BCD so that you can be buoyant and then swim for the shore.

Dive in a strong current is an interesting thing for divers. Experiences are not coming if you are in calm waters. That’s all about how to dive in a strong current. Do you like dive in a strong current? Contact us now