There are a range of questions that we regularly get asked through the contact us page, therefore to save time, here’s the answers to some frequently asked questions.

What do I need to wear?

For the record the ‘rules’ state that a santa must have:

• Red suit with white trim
• White beard
• Red hat (white trim)
• black belt (weight belt will do here)

For the ladys who do not wish to wear the masculine santa outfit a similarly lavish lady santa will be ok for the record, but would have to be a lady santa suit (i.e. skirt type, not just a santa suit sans beard).

Where is the event held?

2011 sees the event move up to the NDAC near Chepstow. Please follow the link for more details and directions.  The owners of NDAC have been very helpful and supportive of the event and we hope that together we can help the event grow and improve.

For the 2007 – 2010 events Scuba Santas was held at Vobster Quay Inland Diving centre. Scuba Santas was in no way affiliated or organised by Vobster Quay who simply acted as a host venue.

Do I need to register?

No there is no need to register, just turn up at the gate. Please remember to register at the desk  otherwise you will not be counted towards our world record!

What is the water temperature like? Will it be freezing?

Water temperature around this time of year is approximately 4 degrees Celcius. Therefore please ensure that your thermal protection is adequate and you are prepared for the dive. Semi-dry suits should be ok but please ensure that that you change as soon as possible after getting out of the water. Dive times are generally never more than 30 minutes, however for the record all divers must be under the water for a simultaneous period of 10 minutes.

If you begin to feel the effects of the cold in a large way please inform somebody from the Scuba Santas team who will endeavour to get you as warm and dry as soon as possible.

The first year of Scuba Santas saw us arrive to steam rising of the Vobster Quay lake!

Do I need to make any special equipment changes for the dive?

Additional dangers are created due to the cold of the dive and the additional santa costume.

Whilst at home please check all of your equipment thoroughly, bringing along gloves and hats for pre/post-dive are a good idea. When checking your equipment on the surface to prevent free flows prevent breathing too much from your regulator whilst out of the water. With regards to your santa outfit, if wearing a dry suit please ensure that any vents are free to vent air, this generally invovles cutting a hole in the shoulder or the cuff.

Where can I make donations?

Please see http://www.scuba-santas.co.uk/donating-to-scuba-santas/

What time is the Scuba Santas dive?

The dive is generally held around 10:30am and there is a second dive at 1:30pm for those who are brave enough. Events kick off just after 9:30am. NDAC opens at 8:00am. There is plenty of parking and so arriving very early is unnecessary.