Diving For Fun Or The Work.
If you are lucky enough (or should I say old enough) to remember `Stingray`, Gerry Anderson`s wonderful sub aqua precursor to `Thunderbirds`, you will remember the amphibian beauty called Marina. She could swim underwater without any breathing equipment at all but we land mammals require some assistance whilst Diving. Scuba Diving has long been a passion for many people who take great delight in experiencing the under water world whilst on holiday. The `scuba` part of scuba Diving is an acronym for `self contained underwater breathing apparatus`. Like snorkelling, scuba divers need flippers or fins and a face-mask connected to the breathing equipment. In the case of scuba Diving this is an air cylinder worn on the diver`s back, which has a breathing tube and mouthpiece. If you are a serious diver, it is very important to select the right kind of mask. The mask should be watertight and specifically designed for the purpose of scuba Diving. The cheaper, plastic skirted face masks available from seaside gift shops and beach stores will not suffice. They may be much less expensive than a proper Diving mask but, as with all so-called bargains, it will not be anywhere near suitable for its declared purpose. If you consider the vast array of marine life to be encountered in each different part of the world, it also takes a knowledge of the various species of fish and other underwater creatures to fully appreciate the joys of this activity. Books to help you identify the things you will see in different locations are available from stockists of Diving and snorkelling equipment.