Home > FAQs

Diving Gear FAQs

Q: What is the first recorded attempt at underwater breathing?
A:
The first record of assisted underwater breathing comes to us from the Greeks. And true to form, it comes in the form of a legend. The Persians were planning to invade the Greeks, and they had amassed a large armada to launch their surprise attack. They captured a Greek named Scyllis and brought him on board the flagship of King Xerxes. When Scyllis learned of the impending invasion he jumped overboard. According to the legend he used a reed to breathe while hiding from the Persians in daylight, and then cut the ships free of their anchors that night, scattering the invading armada and allowing the Greeks time to prepare.

Q: Who is responsible for the development of scuba diving?
A:
Jacques-Yves Cousteau, a French explorer and scientist is responsible for much of the advancement in scuba diving, and from transitioning it from a military tactic into a commercial and recreational pursuit. He not only made many of the advances that allow modern divers to function, but he recorded countless hours of footage on his dives, raising public awareness of marine life.

Q: What are the requirements for me to begin scuba diving?
A:
The exact requirements vary by state, or country. Many areas will allow you to go on a guided tour without becoming a licensed diver, but in order to dive on your own, or without a licensed diving instructor supervising you, there is an exam that must be passed. The exam usually features both written and skills portions, similar to the exam for a driver’s license. Once you are licensed, you can acquire additional certifications, such as for teaching, hazmat diving, or other applications.

Diving Gear | Equipment | Learning Center | Site Map | Contact | Home

Copyright © 2009