We could see some acceptable conditions for diving this weekend of the South Wales coast. Swell isn't going to be too big, possibly around the 4ft mark, and early Saturday the winds should be slight. We do however have a huge spring tide to contend with, almost 9.5m at high tide, so that could affect visibility and makes it absolutely crucial you apply the rule of twelfths to any dive.
The wind is due to pick up Saturday afternoon into Sunday with potentially quite strong Southerly and Westerly gusts on Sunday, although some of the sheltered sites in West Wales, such as Martins Haven and St Brides Bay, may be an option. Although the swell isn't due to increase, the increase in wind could make entry and exit trickier and may also have an impact of visibility.
Of course you can always head inland. South Wales is lucky enough to have The National Diving and Activity Centre (NDAC) in Chepstow which will almost guarantee you a dive, and has plenty of features to keep you entertained on your dive. There is also the option of heading out of Wales to Vobster Quay in Sommerset.
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. This is particularly important with the tidal movement we will see this weekend.
Another break from diving courses this weekend, but we'll be back at the beginning of August with our next group of PADI Open Water Diver students at Hebron Hall in Cardiff. We'll also be looking to run the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course soon for our newly qualified PADI Open Water Divers and anybody else who is interested
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). We're seeing a spring tide this weekend so the rule of twelfths is absolutely vital when planning your dive times.