This study intends to develop a rich picture of the cold water scuba diving experience as a serious leisure activity.

Currently the impression of many writes is that scuba diving is an experience in crystal clear waters; with vibrant colours, abundant life, exhilarating boat rides, calm seas, and warm waters.  Of the top 100 most popular dive destinations only 4 are in European cold waters.  Most coastal marine tourism research has continued this emphasis on warm water diving, and many authors have recorded that the effect of warm, clear water and the ‘above water’ conditions have a high impact on diver enjoyment.  

Scuba Diving in the United Kingdom is characterized by low visibility, low temperatures, strong drifting currents, strong cooling winds, and rough seas.  With two thirds of world wide diving activities taking place domestically, the majority of diving for a UK divers appears to take place in areas where little previous research has considered the impact of the conditions.

My name is Nigel Jones I am undertaking research into the experience of scuba divers in the cold waters of the United Kingdom.   The Understanding ‘The Cold Water Diving Experience’ aims to provide information on how the cold water diving experience is different to warm water diving. Most research about recreational diving has been undertaken in warm waters, and diving regularly in the colder UK waters has been overlooked.  I wish to address this oversight and gain an understanding of the cold water diving experience.   My interest in the field extends from my own diving experience, I am currently not a regular diver, but achieved my BSAC instructor qualification in 2001.

The first stage of the study requires the determination of any sensation seeking traits of divers compared to the general public.  Divers visiting the site are asked to complete an international psychological test used to establish sensation seeking traits in many other sports and leisure activities.  The 40 forced-choice items takes about 15-20 minutes to complete.

As part of the study with a limited number of divers I will be reviewing their dive logs, observing their diving day, and will be conducting indepth interviews, please indicate if you are willing to be interviewed in the future.

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