History of Scuba Diving

Scuba diving basically involves the use of oxygen inhaled from a tank that allows a diver to stay underwater longer. Scuba diving differs from snorkeling in that snorkeling utilizes breathing techniques and simple mask/snorkel apparatus for the swimmer to use to obtain oxygen from the surface. Scuba diving is most commonly used to explore coral reefs, ship wrecks, underwater caves, search and rescue missions, study marine life and even maintain commercial ponds and aquariums.

The term SCUBA is actually an acronym standing for Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus, but over the years has morphed into a regular word used to describe the actual type of diving. While assisted underwater diving has been around for a few hundred years, it wasn’t until the 20th century that the modern day precursor was invented. The first underwater breathing apparatus was invented in the 1930s, but significant improvements and developments did not occur until the mid 1940s when renowned oceanic explorer Jacques Cousteau and engineer Emile Gagnan invented the first pressurized and efficient Self Contained Underwater Breathing apparatus named Aqua Lung. After years of experimentation and improvement, scuba diving was brought to the masses and the National Association of Underwater Instructors was formed to regulate and teach this new sport.

As with anything new, improvements in equipment and techniques occurred in scuba diving making it more attractive to more people and easier to learn and do. Today scuba diving is a thriving, sought after vacation attraction spawning dive shops and outfitters all over the world, particularly in warm, tropical climates and is much more affordable for the average person.