Solway Sub-Aqua Club

Apparently the dictionary finally got it right 🤿😎

Scuba diver (noun)
Like a regular person… but cooler. 🌊

Who’s ready to prove it on the next dive? 👀🐠

Here at Solway, as part of every dive, before we get into the water, we always carry out a buddy check. 🤿

This is an essential and crucial part of any dive we carry out. It ensures that both we, as divers, and our buddies have checked each other’s equipment, know how it works, and are happy that everything is functioning correctly before entering the water.

A few minutes spent checking each other can make all the difference. Never assume — always check.

🤿 BAR Buddy Check – a quick check now, a safer dive next!

BAR is an easy way to remember some of the essentials:

🟨 B – Buoyancy
Check the BCD/drysuit, inflation and deflation, dump valves, and make sure your buddy knows how your buoyancy controls work.

🟦 A – Air
Check the gas supply and pressure gauge, and watch the gauge for any fluctuations while breathing from the regulator. Make sure you both know where the alternative air source is and how to use it. Breathe from the regulator and taste/smell the air to make sure it is clean and free from any unusual tastes or smells.

🟥 R – Releases
Check clips, buckles, weights and quick releases, and make sure you know how to release your buddy’s equipment if needed.

Carrying out these checks properly before every dive is crucial.

👥 Check each other. Dive together. Dive safe.

BAR: Be Prepared • Be Confident • Be Safe 🤿

The Force is strong at Capernwray Quarry… 🌊⚔️

Hidden beneath the surface, you’ll find the famous Star Wars Stormtroopers standing guard.

Who would’ve thought Stormtroopers would look even cooler underwater? 🤿

Have you dived down to see them yet?

Sealife in Action – The Intriguing Behaviour of Our Marine Life 🦈🌊

Last night, Solway Sub Aqua Club hosted a fantastic evening at the Lake District Coast Aquarium, Maryport, bringing together members and members of the public for an inspiring event all about our amazing local marine life.

A huge thank you to our Marine Champion and club member, Anna Pollard, for organising such a brilliant evening and arranging an outstanding line-up of guest speakers who joined us via Microsoft Teams.

This was part of a marine champion activity as part of the Great Shark Snapshot 🦈

We started the evening with a tour of the aquarium, where we learned about some of the smaller shark species and other fascinating marine life that can be found in our local Solway waters.

Our first online speaker was Caroline Robertson-Brown from The Shark Trust. Caroline introduced us to the Trust’s Great Eggcase Hunt, explaining what to look for during seashore searches and underwater dives. We learned how finding, recording and reporting shark and skate egg cases helps build valuable data about where these species are breeding around our coastline. Caroline also shared some of her stunning underwater photography, which was truly inspiring.

Next, we welcomed Danny Copeland, scuba diver, underwater videographer and online fitness coach.

Danny gave us an exclusive preview of his independent documentary, Guardian Angel 🦈, which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. He also shared some excellent advice on capturing the best underwater photos and videos—tips that will no doubt be put to good use by many of our members on future dives.

To round off the evening, we were joined by renowned marine biologist and underwater photographer “Paul Naylor”.

Paul treated us to an incredible collection of photographs showcasing the rich diversity of UK marine life, including fish, crabs, catsharks and octopus. His images were simply breathtaking and highlighted just how special our underwater world really is.

It was a fantastic evening filled with learning, inspiration and a shared passion for our oceans. Thank you to everyone who attended, and a special thank you once again to Anna Pollard for organising such a memorable event, along with our brilliant guest speakers for sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm with us.

We look forward to seeing everyone at our next club event!

👌 This sign means “I’m OK.”

In diving, it's one of the first signals you learn.

For us at Solway Sub Aqua Club, it also means good friends, great dives, plenty of laughs, and looking out for one another—both above and below the surface. 🤿💙

The first photo is the proper version of the signal.
The second photo? Well... after adding sunglasses underwater, it suddenly becomes:
😎 "Nothing beats a Solway Sub Aqua Club summer dive!"

Giving off strong holiday-advert energy and proving that some divers will do absolutely anything for a photo opportunity. 👌☀️🌊

Here's to sunny days, clear water, and making the most of every opportunity to get in the sea. Wishing everyone a fantastic summer, wherever your diving adventures take you.

Stay safe, enjoy every dive, and don't forget to let your buddy know you're OK. 🤿☀️🌊

Jess Glynne soundtrack optional.

💙 Team Solway 💙

Monday night saw many of our members venture to our favourite dive location, Wastwater, for another fantastic evening of diving, training and good company.

More than just a dive club, we’re a team, a family, and a community brought together by a shared passion for adventure.

From members taking their very first breaths underwater to experienced divers refining their skills, every achievement is made possible by the support, encouragement and dedication of our incredible volunteer instructors and amazing members.

This photo captures exactly what Solway Sub Aqua Club is all about—friendship, teamwork, learning, laughter and unforgettable adventures.

If you’ve ever thought about learning to dive, returning to the sport, or becoming part of a friendly and supportive club, we’d love to welcome you.

Come and join Team Solway—the adventure starts here. 🌊🤿