What is Free Diving and Scuba Diving? What are the Differences Between Them?

Diving is one of the most popular activities for those who want to explore the fascinating atmosphere of the underwater world. However, before embarking on this adventure, it is important to understand the differences between free diving and scuba diving. Both types of diving offer different experiences and require different skills. In this article, we will discuss in detail what freediving and scuba diving are and what are the differences between them.

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What is Free Diving?

Free diving is a type of diving that relies solely on one’s breathing capacity. The diver dives underwater without the support of a tube or oxygen, holding his breath and returns to the surface after a certain period of time. Technical knowledge, physical fitness and breath control are very important in this type of diving.

Features of Free Diving:

• Naturalness: It offers a completely natural experience as no equipment is used.
• Silence: Compared to scuba diving, freediving is quieter underwater. This allows the diver to observe the creatures around him more easily.
• Physical Difficulty: Freediving requires serious physical and mental endurance, as it depends on the duration of the breath hold.

Where is Free Diving Practised?

Freediving is usually done in places where the seas are calm and clean. Free diving is especially popular in clear waters, in areas with coral reefs or in natural diving areas called blue holes.

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What is Scuba Diving?

Scuba diving is a type of diving that allows the diver to breathe underwater with the help of an oxygen cylinder carried on his back. This type of diving makes it possible to stay underwater for longer and allows you to dive deeper.

Features of Scuba Diving:

• Equipment Usage: Special equipment such as oxygen cylinder, regulator, diving vest (BCD), weight belt and diving mask are used.
• Training Requirement: Scuba diving requires special training and certification. Training can be obtained through courses offered by international diving organisations such as PADI and SSI.
• Long Term Diving: Thanks to the oxygen cylinder, divers can stay underwater for a long time without having to hold their breath.
• Deeper Diving: Scuba diving can reach much deeper depths than free diving.

Where can scuba diving be done?

Scuba diving is usually done in areas where there are areas to explore such as coral reefs, sunken ships and underwater caves. In Turkey, diving spots such as Kas, Bodrum and Fethiye are ideal for scuba diving.

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Differences Between Free Diving and Scuba Diving

1. Equipment Usage:

• Free Diving: No equipment is used. Only diving goggles and fins can be preferred.
• Scuba Diving: Oxygen cylinder, regulator and other equipment are used.

2. Breath Control:

• Free Diving Based on breath-holding skills.
• Scuba Diving: Provides comfortable breathing under water.

3. Diving Depth and Duration:

• Free Diving Since the breath holding time is limited, the dive duration and depth are more restricted.
• Scuba Diving: Thanks to the oxygen cylinder, you can stay underwater longer and dive deeper.

4. Training Requirement:

• Free Diving: Basic breath control and technical knowledge is sufficient. Professional level training is available.
• Scuba Diving: Training and certification are compulsory. Divers should learn various rules for a safe dive.

5. Experience and Sensation:

• Free Diving It offers a natural, quiet and meditative experience.
• Scuba Diving: It is exploration orientated and provides the opportunity to observe a wider underwater world.

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Who is Suitable for Freediving and Scuba Diving?

Suitable for Free Diving:

• Those who want to improve their breath holding capacity,
• Those with physical and mental endurance,
• Those looking for a quiet and natural diving experience.

Suitable for Scuba Diving:

• Those who want to explore the underwater world for longer,
• Those who have knowledge about the use of equipment,
• Those who are thinking of getting a diving certificate.

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Which type of diving is better?

Which type of diving is better depends entirely on personal preferences. Free diving is ideal for those who want to integrate with nature and have a quiet experience. Scuba diving is more suitable for those who want to explore the depths of the underwater world and stay under the sea for longer. Both types of diving offer a great opportunity to explore the underwater world.

Freediving and scuba diving allow you to explore the beauties of the underwater world from different angles. Freediving offers a natural and physical challenge, while scuba diving provides a wider area of exploration. Whichever type of diving you prefer, remember to get the necessary training and pay attention to safety precautions before having this unique experience. Whether free or scuba diving, get ready to discover the fascinating beauties of the underwater world!