One of the most popular options for divers embarking on their Advanced Course is the Koh Tao Night Dive! It’s a totally different experience to diving in the day as you get to see marine life that shy away from the daylight. At Big Blue, we feel that diving as the sun sets is the most relaxing type of night dive. It’s a great introduction for new divers into the world of night diving because you can start during the day, which most people will be more comfortable with, and then slowly transition into the dark.
During the day many types of creatures hide from predators but as soon as it gets darker, they come to life –this changing of the guard transforms the underwater landscape, proving a completely new visual experience. Out of the inky depths, you will see creatures venturing from deeper waters to shallower waters to feed, like tasty zooplankton in the shallows feeding on microscopic algae that need sunlight to grow. These little animals also emit bioluminescence, which creates a stunning ceiling of lights above the divers’ heads.
Diving at night allows the diver a front seat view of the food chain in action. Barracuda start their hunting, while octopuses, lobsters, and squids venture out from their hiding spots in the reef.
But not everything that ventures out at night is on the hunt; you’ll be able to find species’ performing mating rituals after dusk, while certain corals will release spawn.
Another benefit to the night dive comes from your lights, which will attract curious animals – you don’t have to find them – they’ll find you! Some of the more curious creatures include krill, shrimp, jellyfish, and tentacled squid, to name just a few.
While some nocturnal animals become more active at night, the daytimers will take a break under ledges. That’s right; fish do sleep, they just don’t have eyelids like mammals. When they are sleeping, they experience periods of inactivity and slow down. Some parrotfish secrete a mucus cocoon at night before going to bed. This layer acts as an early warning system against predators, as well as covering their scent. As a night-time diver, you’ll also be greeted by creatures that emit their own light – bioluminescent animals.
I think it’s fair to say that while you can dive at a spot many times during the day, try the same spot at night and you’re in for a completely different experience. The Koh Tao night dive is something that everyone should experience at least once in their lives. Those who do will feel blessed to be transported to another world. It can be exciting & fun. It can be movingly profound. But diving at night is never forgettable.
If you want to know more about what other options are available to you on the Advanced Course then get in touch and we’ll be happy to fill you in.
