We could see some acceptable conditions for diving along the South Wales coast this weekend. Sunday in particular could see the best of the conditions as the wind and swell will both be low. We'll have some fairly big tides, but that is normal for the Bristol Channel and that can actually help with the dive if you know how to dive them. There has been a bit of swell over the last few days, which will have had an effect on visibility, but the calm conditions will help with that and a good dive plan with somebody who knows the site will also reduce the impact of that.
Water temperatures are starting to rise slowly, but they'll still be cold and good thermal protection is going to be essential still. Semi Dry or Dry suits, hoods, gloves will all be required. Also ensure you have the correct protection for before and after the dive.
We're lucky to have some really good inland dive sites in or close to South Wales, so if the conditions do turn you could always head to one of those but if conditions hold out as expected, it would be crazy not to take advantage and head to the coast.
Our usual PADI Open Water Diver Referral course in Cardiff has been postponed this month as we're heading to a school to run the course for their pupils before they head off for and exciting dive trip. These course are always good fun and the pupils always have a really good time.
We'll be back running the PADI Open Water Diver Open Water dives down in Chepstow soon and the Referral courses will be back to normal in June, so if you want to get a head start before a summer holiday, get in touch and we can talk you through the process and options that are available.