A diving apparatus includes a pump that is actuated by muscular force. Diving weights are fastened to a fresh-air tank by surface zip fasteners. A traction element lies between the pump and the diver's limbs and to which it is attached a quick-release device. A float is surrounded by a net, the float having a seat located below the surface of the water and each of the straps, which are used to fasten the fresh-air tank to the diver, has at least one quick fastener which can be opened by the diver.