Why do scuba divers always enter the water back wards from a boat?

Question

Why do scuba divers always enter the water back wards from a boat?

Answer 1

Mainly to help keep their diving mask from being washed off and also because most of the weight in on their backs in air tanks and lead weights...   I have seen divers jump head first; giant stride; and just plain lean into the dive, depending on how many tanks and weights are involved

Answer 2

no i just jump in and hold my mask on my face

Answer 3

because you might not like what you (sea)....Liz.  sorry.

Answer 4

they don't,it depends on the type of boat as to which is the easiest method.

Answer 5

it will depend of the cicumstances of the dive, and facilities of the boat but it is easier going in backwards as a pose to forwards with all the gear on etc

Answer 6

Your kidding,... right !!?

Answer 7

im guessing its got something to do with the heavy air tank on their backs

Answer 8

This isn't the only way you can do a straddle jump as well and i don't no why they go in backwards except that's its a fun an maybe safe way to get in the water.

Answer 9

it is not the only method used.

You should always use a ladder if boat has one and especially in unfamiliar waters....yes, you can roll backwards but hold tank with one hand and tuck chin in so manifold doesnt hit head.

The step-in method is the most frequently used, and is best used from a stable platform or boat. The divers should simply take a large step out from the platform, keeping legs in an open stride. They should try to enter the water with a slightly forward tilt of the upper body so that the force of entry will not cause the cylinder to hit the back of the head.

ps - fins not flippers, flipper was a dolphin

Answer 10

so they don't get water up there nose i guess

Answer 11

So your mask doesn't come off.So your flippers won't be in the way either.

Answer 12

The three common entries from a boat:

Controlled Seated Entry - if you are unsure of the depth of the water, you sit on the dive deck of the boat with your feet in the water.  Twisting over, using your arms for leverage, you push off into the water.  I typically can do this entry without getting my hair yet.  It is very good for shallow water.  It is also common off of docks/piers.

Giant Stride Entry - From the dive deck you, step off the boat.  This is the most common entry, especially if the water is deep enough that you won't hit the bottom when you first enter the water.

Back-Roll - This is a common entry when the boat does not have a dive deck.  Instead of stepping over the gunwale of the boat wearing all of the heavy equipment, you just sit on the gunwale and back roll in.  Typically, it is done when you are realtively close to the water.