Author: HAL

Scuba News

Switching to SEACAM: First Impressions

May 7, 2025 by HAL

The author shares their excitement about switching to SEACAM underwater photography equipment, which they believe is top-notch. After receiving a SEACAM rig and training in Austria, they highlight how their experience with this brand has set it apart from others. The transition to the Nikon Z8 camera and improved equipment design focuses on reliability and […]

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Scuba News

SeaLife Announces SportDiver S Underwater Housing for Smartphones

May 7, 2025 by HAL

SeaLife has launched the SportDiver S, a new underwater housing for smartphones, suitable for divers and snorkelers. This compact housing can dive to 100 feet and is compatible with most iPhones and many Android models. It features comfortable controls for easy use and includes a Leak Avoidance System to keep the smartphone safe while underwater. […]

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Scuba News

Beyond the Known: Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

May 7, 2025 by HAL

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a stunning destination for scuba divers, located in the remote Sulu Sea. It features vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life, including over 600 fish species and various apex predators like sharks and manta rays. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, supported by strict conservation […]

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Scuba News

Skin Cancer Awareness month

May 7, 2025 by HAL

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a reminder for scuba divers about the risks of excessive sun exposure. While diving, sunlight can reflect off the water, increasing your chance of skin damage and melanoma, a serious skin cancer. Divers should protect themselves by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and conducting regular skin checks. Awareness […]

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Scuba News

Gear Review: BARE Aqua-Trek Evo Drysuit (Watch Video)

May 6, 2025 by HAL

The BARE Aqua-Trek Evo Drysuit is reviewed in a video by Jeff Goodman. This drysuit is designed for comfort and warmth during scuba dives. It features durable construction and good insulation, making it a great option for colder waters. The video highlights how the suit performs in various diving conditions, emphasizing its versatility for divers.

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Scuba News

Chinese diver dies off Indonesia’s Kakaban Island

May 6, 2025 by HAL

A 30-year-old Chinese diver named Zhang Xiao Han died near Kakaban Island in Indonesia. She disappeared while trying to recover her dropped GoPro camera during a safety stop after a dive. Witnesses reported that she resurfaced but jumped back in without her scuba gear to retrieve the camera. A search and rescue operation located her […]

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Scuba News

PADI Helps Membership Reach Millions To Drive More Business Opportunities

May 6, 2025 by HAL

PADI is working hard to help its 6,600 Dive Centers and Resorts across 180 countries gain business through better marketing and visibility. They are enhancing their reputation with extensive global media coverage, which helps attract new customers. PADI Members can now list their diving experiences on Google Things To Do, making it easier for divers […]

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Scuba News

Maldives vs. Seychelles

May 6, 2025 by HAL

The Maldives and Seychelles are two popular diving destinations offering stunning underwater experiences. Both locations feature beautiful coral reefs and diverse marine life. The Maldives is known for its clear waters and numerous dive sites, while Seychelles boasts vibrant ecosystems and unique rock formations. New divers can enjoy both places, but the Maldives is often […]

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Scuba News

Shark fins seized at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport

May 6, 2025 by HAL

Thai customs officials seized 402 shark fins weighing 102 kilograms at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok. The fins were found during a joint operation with Chinese authorities, who alerted Thailand about illegal wildlife trade. The fins, worth over 2 million Thai baht, were falsely labeled as ‘dried fish’ and were intended for shipment to China. […]

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Scuba News

News Digest – May

May 6, 2025 by HAL

A recent study revealed that microplastics are threatening the reproduction of spadenose sharks in India. These pollutants are found in the sharks’ environment and can severely impact their future. The research highlights the deep infiltration of microplastics into marine life, posing a serious threat to shark populations. Understanding this issue is crucial for conservation efforts […]

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Scuba News

The Best Scuba Diving Sites in The US

May 6, 2025 by HAL

The article highlights 11 top scuba diving sites in the US. Notable locations include Monterey, California, with its abundant marine life, and Kona, Hawaii, known for black-water diving. The Bonne Terre Mine in Missouri attracts divers to explore its flooded tunnels. Other recommended sites are in Morehead, North Carolina, Bellingham, Washington, and Key Largo, Florida. […]

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Scuba News

Cressi’s New Rafaello Dive Computer Is Now Shipping

May 5, 2025 by HAL

Cressi has launched the Rafaello Dive Computer, which is now available for shipping. This durable device caters to a variety of divers, including recreational, freedivers, and technical divers. It features a large, bright display for easy readability and simple navigation, equipped with a backlight for low-light conditions. Notable functions include support for multiple gas mixes, […]

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Scuba News

Between Two Corals Next Gen Dive Talk

May 5, 2025 by HAL

The podcast “Between Two Corals” hosts a youth-led episode where young divers share their love for scuba diving. Jack, Sierra, and Layla talk about their first dives, favorite marine animals, and memorable experiences, like encountering moray eels and mesmerizing night dives. They express their goals, including becoming a Divemaster and exploring unique dive sites. This […]

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First ever footage of a baby colossal squid

May 5, 2025 by HAL

Scientists at the Schmidt Ocean Institute captured the first video of a baby colossal squid, measuring 30 centimeters, in its natural habitat. This species, known as Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni, is the largest invertebrate by mass and can grow to be over 10 meters long. The footage was taken at a depth of 600 meters near the […]

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Scuba News

Do Sharks Prefer Human Blood or Fish Blood?

May 5, 2025 by HAL

Mark Rober tested whether sharks prefer human blood or fish blood during Shark Week 2020. He conducted two experiments using modified surfboards and a specially designed shark cage. Rober created a suspenseful video to detail these experiments. Check out the video to see the results of his tests and enjoy the thrilling adventure.

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Scuba News

Budget-Friendly Dive Vacations in Curaçao

May 5, 2025 by HAL

Curaçao is an affordable scuba diving destination known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Budget divers can find affordable accommodations such as All West Apartments and Dolphin Suites, and many dive shops offer budget-friendly packages like unlimited shore diving and multi-day boat diving. Tips for saving money include booking flights early, renting a […]

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Scuba News

Check Out SCUBAPRO’s New Navigator Lite BCD

May 5, 2025 by HAL

SCUBAPRO has introduced the new Navigator Lite BCD, designed for recreational divers who travel. This lightweight, back-inflated BCD features an Airnet soft backpack for easy packing. It offers a lift capacity of 17.3kg/38.1 lbs and has customizable color options. Other key features include a streamlined design with bungee straps and detachable pockets for added convenience. […]

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Scuba News

Issue 143 of Underwater Photography Magazine Available

May 4, 2025 by HAL

Issue 143 of Underwater Photography Magazine is now available for free download. It includes the latest news in the underwater photography industry and highlights new equipment such as the Nauticam housing for the Panasonic Lumix S1RII. The magazine features interviews and articles focused on underwater shooting techniques, including a review of the Nauticam Midrange Focus […]

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Scuba News

Microcosm: Underwater Photography in a UK Tide Pool

May 4, 2025 by HAL

The article highlights the beauty and diversity of marine life found in UK tide pools, particularly at Castle Beach in Falmouth. Over eight months, the author observed and photographed a single rock pool, revealing its vibrant ecosystem that includes various species like starfish, jellyfish, and sea slugs. The creative process involved experimenting with different photography […]

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Scuba News

Scary Shark Encounter At Mall Aquarium

May 4, 2025 by HAL

A group of divers had a scary encounter with a large shark at the Dubai Mall aquarium. They expected a calm experience, but found themselves face-to-face with the intimidating creature and without any protective cage. One diver struggled with his buoyancy control, becoming anxious about not wanting to provoke the shark. The incident highlighted the […]

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Scuba News

Halcyon offers Symbios Ecosystem discounts for instructors

May 3, 2025 by HAL

Halcyon Dive Systems is providing discounts on its Symbios Ecosystem for certified dive instructors. This integrated dive package includes a wrist-mounted computer, a heads-up display, and a wireless tank transceiver. It allows divers to track dive data and monitor multiple gas mixtures effectively. The discount will last until May 31, 2025, and instructors must hold […]

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Scuba News

Women Divers Hall of Fame Online Auction Closes Soon!

May 2, 2025 by HAL

The Women Divers Hall of Fame’s online auction is ending soon, on May 3, 2025. This auction supports their scholarship and training grant program, which has awarded nearly $1 million to individuals passionate about ocean conservation over the past two decades. Participants can bid on various items, including books and trips to exciting dive locations. […]

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Scuba News

Night Diving – Reef Activity After Dark

May 2, 2025 by HAL

Night diving offers unique experiences and reveals amazing reef activity not seen during the day. Many divers prefer daytime diving, but exploring the reefs at night can lead to discovering new passions. In Belize, the underwater world transforms after dark, showcasing fantastic nocturnal wildlife. Those adventurous enough to try night diving can witness a vibrant […]

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Scuba News

WHY RAID

May 2, 2025 by HAL

RAID focuses on creating a community for new divers. It aims to build a legacy where everyone can learn and share experiences about diving. The goal is to ensure that the next generation of divers enjoys and respects the ocean. RAID offers resources and support to help divers grow in their skills and understanding of […]

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