Scuba Diving Conditions could be tricky this weekend. Swell could reach 3ft - 4ft and we're going to have some strong Northerlies, gusting up to 24knots. Whilst the offshore wind is better than an onshore, the strength of it could still create some choppy conditions and effect the visibility.
If you can find a sheltered bay, you may see acceptable conditions, however tidal times are also working against us this weekend, with high tide being 08:05 and 20:20 on Saturday, being able to dive on slack water is going to involve a very early morning or night dive, which is only for the qualified and experienced divers.
After the last few weeks of good diving conditions in South Wales, this weekend your best bet is to head to an inland site, removing the tidal problems and swell. There has been a noticeable drop in temperatures in the last week or so here is South Wales, so you'll need to take extra precautions when it comes to thermal protection. Although the water is holding it's temperature somewhat, inland sites will probably be around the 10°C - 12°C you need to consider thermal protection for when you are out of the water too.
It's been a busy week for us at Ocean Quest and the weekend is full too. Our instructors and divemasters performed a number survey dives of some lakes to see if we could offer nearby residents the PADI Open Water Diver course on site. On Saturday we're back to Hebron Hall in Cardiff, running the first two parts of our PADI Open Water Diver course. We also have the final part of the PADI Open Water Diver next weekend and PADI Advanced Open Water course later in the month too!
CAUTIONS – Water temperatures are starting to drop and the air temperature has dropped significantly over the last week or two. You'll need to think about your thermal protection both whilst in the water and after exiting. Hoods, Gloves, Semi-dry or Dry suits. Windproof jackets and lots of layers for when you've finished your dive too.