We're in for a tough weekend as far as Scuba Diving on the South Wales coast. The swell isn't too big, although Saturday could be up to 4ft - 5ft but we've got strong onshore winds, meaning increased water movement which could cause visibility issues.
Whilst the tide isn't as big as it can be on the South Wales coast, high tide will still be between 8m and 8.3m and low of 2.8m across the weekend, so there is still a large movement of water between low and high tide, which could also contribute to visibility issues. Sheltered, easterly facing bays may provide enough protection from the conditions for the more experienced divers. Oxwich Bay is Swansea may be an option.
Of course you always of the option of heading inland. In South Wales we're lucky enough to have The National Diving and Activity Centre (NDAC) in Chepstow which will almost guarantee you a dive, and although an inland site there is plenty to see with sunken boats, planes, helicopters and much more!
If you do decide to go with an offshore dive, make sure you account for the rule of twelfths, diving on the incoming tide and ensure you've properly planned both you entry and exit points.
There are no diving courses for us this week after last weeks PADI Open Water Diver completion dives and PADI Rescue Diver open water section. We've also run the Emergency First Responder course required for the PADI Rescue Diver course which provides students with a level of first aid to deal with a number of situations as first on scene - and not just diving accidents.
We'll be back in Hebron Hall in Cardiff soon, starting another group of students on their Scuba Diving adventure.
CAUTIONS – As is always the case, throughout the year, in South Wales we'll still need to take precautions with regards to thermal protection (wetsuits, drysuits, hoods, gloves). Although the tidal movement is smaller than it can be here is South Wales, there will still be a large movement of water between high and low. Plan you dive, entry and exit points and times accordingly.