37Low visibility is the reality for many dives in northern Europe. Reasons for reduced visibility can be seasonal influences, bottom composition, water movement or other local factors. In contrast with commercial divers, recreational divers have a choice if they want to dive in waters with low visibility or not.

Water with limited visibility does not look as inviting as the clear blue waters you find in the tropical sea and some unique lakes. This lack of attractiveness looking at it from the top may be misleading. Despite complicating factors there are many divers who really enjoy exploring sites while swimming within their own moving “dome”.

Over the years, divers have developed techniques to increase enjoyment, control and safety in murky waters. A choice to dive in low visibility comes with the obligation to learn and master these techniques.

Your instructor will want a completed medical statement from you. In some regions a medical statement with only “no” answers will be sufficient for participation in the course. In other regions a medical signed and stamped by a medical doctor will be required and must unconditionally say that you are fit for diving.

You start this course by downloading the book and reading it. Your instructor will add to the information provided in the booklet and show you examples of equipment items that are suitable for low visibility. Participation in the practical part of the course requires a minimum age of 10. Once the theory is done, your instructor may add a pool session for preparation, before starting on the two open water dives to prepare you for low visibility diving.

If you prefer to read your book on paper, then ask your instructor. The price for the paper version of this booklet is €4.90. If you cannot find a SCUBA C&P instructor in your area, then please contact us via info@scuba-courses.com.