How to Exit Deep Water When Scuba Diving

Diving from a boat or shoreline shelf means climbing from deep water. Use this technique to avoid that sinking feeling.

Things You'll Need

  • Scuba Gear
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Instructions

    • 1

      End the dive with air left in your tank (always a good idea) and swim to the boat platform or shoreline shelf.

    • 2

      Face the edge, keeping the regulator in your mouth (yes, continue to breathe, too).

    • 3

      Inflate your buoyancy compensator (BC).

    • 4

      Release the weight-belt buckle and keep a hold on the strap end. The buckle and weight should swing clear behind you.

    • 5

      Gather the belt ends in one hand and fold the weight with the other, until you have a manageable package to lift onto the shelf.

    • 6

      Remove the scuba unit by alternately sliding shoulders from the BC.

    • 7

      Exchange the regulator for your snorkel.

    • 8

      Release the scuba unit, which should float buoyantly on the surface.

    • 9

      Place both hands crisscrossed on the shelf's edge, right hand over left.

    • 10

      Kick mightily and propel yourself out of the water with your fins.

    • 11

      Twist around to the left as you rise and land sitting between your hands, facing the water.

    • 12

      Remove your fins, then reach down and draw out the scuba unit by the tank valve. Be careful not to strike it on the edge.

    • 13

      Assist your buddy.