Underwater natural navigation allows you to determine your position by observing terrain features and environmental characteristics.

At familiar dive sites, experienced divers can estimate their underwater location with considerable accuracy by using natural references.

Common and reliable reference points include:

● Terrain and Structures

Large rocks, reef formations, drop-offs, artificial reefs, wrecks, and other prominent structures serve as excellent landmarks.

Drop-off

Artificial Reef

Wreck

● Bottom Composition

The seabed often changes gradually from rocky areas near shore to larger stones and eventually to sand as you move offshore. Recognizing these transitions can help determine direction.

● Marine Life

Many reef fish remain within a limited territory. Corals and soft corals are fixed in place and provide reliable reference points.

Coral

Soft Coral

● Ripple Marks

Ripple marks in sandy areas are often formed by wave action and may run roughly parallel to the shoreline.

● Visibility

Visibility may change due to river runoff, currents, or variations in water movement. Observing these changes can provide directional clues.