How to Enter the Water When Scuba Diving

Scuba diving can be graceful. But above the surface with gear on, one can feel... well... like a fish out of water. Get from one medium to the next with ease.

Things You'll Need

  • Scuba Gear
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Instructions

  1. From the Shore

    • 1

      Put on all gear except mask, fins and snorkel.

    • 2

      Walk to within 10 feet of the water, or just above the waves' reach.

    • 3

      Don the mask, fins and snorkel.

    • 4

      Inflate the buoyancy compensator to half-full.

    • 5

      Place the regulator in your mouth.

    • 6

      Make sure the tank valve is open.

    • 7

      Hold the mask and regulator in place with your left hand.

    • 8

      Turn with your back to the water and look over your shoulder.

    • 9

      Walk slowly backward into the water, shuffling your fins.

    Sitting From an Unstable Platform

    • 10

      Don all gear.

    • 11

      Inflate the buoyancy compensator to half-full.

    • 12

      Place the regulator in your mouth.

    • 13

      Make sure the tank valve is open.

    • 14

      Hold the mask and regulator in place with your left hand.

    • 15

      Grab the gauges and alternate air with your right hand.

    • 16

      Sit at the edge of the platform (or boat) with your back to the water, tank hanging over the side.

    • 17

      Cross your ankles.

    • 18

      Roll backward into the water. Buoyancy will eventually right you.

    Standing From a Stable Platform

    • 19

      Don all gear.

    • 20

      Inflate the buoyancy compensator to half-full.

    • 21

      Place the regulator in your mouth.

    • 22

      Make sure the tank valve is open.

    • 23

      Hold the mask and regulator in place with your left hand.

    • 24

      Grab the gauges and alternate air with your right hand.

    • 25

      Stand close to the edge of the water.

    • 26

      Take a long stride with one leg so the fin lands flat on the surface.

    • 27

      Splash and bob.