Scuba Diving in Monsoon Season: Is It Possible?
The question of whether it is possible to get a scuba diving license during a monsoon is a common one among aspiring divers. Scuba divers are not actually licensed but certified, and most of the training is conducted in a classroom or a pool. The final practical session is conducted in open water, which is affected by the weather. Can you obtain a scuba diving license during a monsoon? Let's explore this question in detail.
Can You Get a Scuba Diving License During a Monsoon?
Yes, it is possible.
For those teaching or training at dive centers in areas affected by monsoons, such as Thailand, this period of heavy rain can still be a valid time to earn a scuba diving license. Though it may rain frequently, not every day is a deluge, and some marine locations can provide shelter from the worst impacts of the storms when they occur. The dive staff in these areas would be able to provide more specific information regarding local conditions.
No, according to PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) standards.
According to PADI standards, certain skills are required to be performed in a pool setting to ensure that visibility is sufficient for the instructor to supervise the diver effectively. Being required to do these skills in the open water, where visibility and weather conditions might be poor, would be a significant challenge. Therefore, you cannot get a scuba diving license during a monsoon according to these standards.
It is generally not recommended.
Many experienced divers, like myself, would advise against obtaining a scuba diving license during a monsoon season due to the potential dangers and lack of visibility. Visibility under water might not be great, and the surface conditions can be quite cold. The weather can make diving less enjoyable and more strenuous. It is safer to wait for a sunny day when you can have a better diving experience.
Yes, it is certainly possible, but with caveats.
Despite the challenges, it is possible to get a scuba diving license during a monsoon. The underwater visibility might be lower but it is still doable. As a teacher, I have trained hundreds of students in monsoons. It can be a fun experience, though one must be prepared for the conditions.
Real World Examples and Advice
I have instructed in the UK, where the weather can be incredibly variable, especially during the summer. There are times when it is simply pouring rain. Yet, we all stand there in full scuba gear to be briefed, with the usual joke, "Let's get in quickly so we don’t get wet!" Despite the rain, we still manage to conduct our sessions. However, as Jason mentioned, whether one would choose to get certified during a monsoon, especially in a region like the Philippines, where the weather can be consistently rainy, is a different matter entirely. The weather and visibility can significantly impact the diving experience.
During a monsoon, there is a phenomenon called "run-off," where silt from the land gets washed into the sea. This can make the water murky and less clear. Despite these challenging conditions, there are instances where it is still possible to dive. For example, I once scuba dived in a disused quarry in the UK during a heavy downpour. Underwater, there was an incredible "cloud" where the run-off had created a lovely, albeit temporary, phenomenon.
So, while it is possible to dive during a monsoon, it is essential to check with the local dive resorts. Google can be a valuable resource for this. For instance, if you are considering a dive in Boracay, Philippines, you could search for "scuba diving Boracay Philippines." The local dive centers will have a better understanding of the local conditions and would be able to advise you on whether the conditions are safe and suitable for diving.
In conclusion, while it is possible to get a scuba diving license during a monsoon, it is generally not advisable and can be more challenging than diving during better weather conditions. However, if you have no other choice or if the diving center is prepared, it can still be done with proper precautions and guidance.