Essential Diving Guidelines for the Galapagos Islands

Understanding Galapagos Marine Life

The Galapagos Islands are renowned for their extraordinary marine biodiversity. To truly appreciate the underwater world, divers should approach marine animals with minimal disturbance. Gentle movements and avoiding excessive bubbles can prevent startling creatures such as resting turtles, passing sharks, and even the occasional whale. While most marine animals in the Galapagos are not threatened by divers, caution is advised around orcas and adult male sea lions, which may exhibit aggressive behavior.

Tips for Close Encounters:

• Remain still when animals are nearby.
• Avoid rapid movements and control your buoyancy to minimize bubbles.
• Observe from a distance; curious animals may approach you.

Diving Rules and Safety

Adhering to diving rules is paramount for a safe experience in the Galapagos. Here are the key guidelines to follow:

Dive Planning and Execution:

• Always listen to and follow your guide's instructions.
• Avoid decompression dives.
• Limit your maximum depth to 30 meters (100 feet).
• Perform safety stops after each dive.
• End your dive with sufficient air reserves (approximately 500 psi or 40 bars).

Group Dynamics and Emergency Procedures:

• Stay with your group; if separated, search for one minute before surfacing.
• Never leave a tank unattended on the boat deck.
• Dive with a buddy and do not disturb wildlife.
• Maintain safe nitrogen levels and adhere to dive tables or computers.
• If unsure or uncomfortable, do not dive.
• In case of surface problems, remain calm and signal the boat.
• If caught in a current, relax, float, and signal for assistance.

Health and Safety Precautions:

• Follow all safety briefings provided by your guide.
• Be aware that diving conditions can change rapidly.
• It's highly recommended to have a Divers Alert Network (DAN) membership for emergency assistance.

Emergency Facilities:

• In case of a diving emergency, Port Ayora has a hyperbaric chamber operated by PROTESUB DIVING, part of the SSS Recompression Chamber Network.

Interesting Statistics and Facts

The Galapagos Islands are a hotspot for scuba diving enthusiasts, with over 30,000 divers visiting annually. According to the Galapagos Conservation Trust, the archipelago is home to more than 2,900 marine species, with 25% being endemic. The islands' location at the confluence of three ocean currents brings an incredible mix of marine life, making it a unique diving destination.

Noteworthy Stats:

• The Galapagos Marine Reserve covers over 133,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest marine reserves in the world.
• Research indicates that the presence of divers can have a minimal impact on wildlife behavior when guidelines are followed.

For more information on diving in the Galapagos and the importance of conservation, visit the Galapagos Conservation Trust and the Divers Alert Network.