Scuba News-Gazette
Here, we curate the latest news, discoveries, and conservation efforts from across the web, keeping you updated on everything scuba diving. From groundbreaking research and awe-inspiring dives to essential gear reviews and travel recommendations, Scuba News is your one-stop shop for all things scuba diving. So, gear up for knowledge, and stay informed about the ever-evolving world beneath the waves!
- Supporter Spotlight: Heather Stevens, Ensuring the Future of Ocean Livelihoods
Heather Stevens is a key supporter of ocean conservation through her work with Oceana. After learning about threats to oceans, including overfishing, she joined the Board of Directors of Oceana and helped shape campaigns to combat illegal fishing. Stevens used her insurance expertise to push major companies to improve their screening of fishing operations. One successful project is Global Fishing Watch, which uses satellite technology to reveal illegal fishing activities, helping protect local fishermen’s livelihoods, especially in vulnerable areas like Senegal. fishing data illegal fishing ocean conservation. Oceana
- New PADI Courses Locator – How To Show Up
The new PADI Courses Locator helps beginners and certified divers easily find courses that match their needs. It features a simple interface with filters for location, course type, experience level, price, and more. New divers will see nearby Open Water courses based on their location, making it easy to start their diving journey. The system also provides direct booking options and a map to locate dive centers. Ensuring your dive shop is accurately listed can attract more customers and boost bookings. courses diving PADI PADI Pros
- Ocean Conservation Projects in Brazil & How You Can Help
Brazil has beautiful coastlines and various ocean conservation projects that need help from divers. Organizations like Acqua Sub and Dive Center Narwhal are actively working to protect marine life and educate the public about responsible diving. They organize cleanup events and emphasize the importance of preserving the ocean's health. Oceano Sub also engages the local community through beach cleanups and educational talks. New divers can join these efforts to help keep Brazil's waters clean and healthy. conservation dive ocean
- Start ’em Young: Discover our Bubblemakers Program
The Bubblemakers program introduces children to the amazing world of scuba diving. It offers a fun way for kids to explore and gain confidence in the water. This program is great for young aquaphiles and makes an ideal gift. It helps children develop skills and enjoy underwater adventures safely. Bubblemakers children Dive Blog scuba diving
- Issue 141 of Underwater Photography Magazine Available
Issue 141 of Underwater Photography Magazine is now available for free download. This edition features news about new imaging equipment, including the Nauticam NA-A9III housing and Kraken Sports KR-S80 strobe. It also includes gear reviews, such as an evaluation of the OM System TG-7 camera equipment. Additionally, there are interviews and articles about notable underwater photographers and locations like the Abu Nuhas reef. To access the magazine, simply sign up with your email. DPG RSS gear reviews imaging equipment underwater photography
- BSAC Releases Annual Incident Report
The British Sub-Aqua Club has released its annual diving incident report for 2023, which documents 242 incidents in the UK, including nine fatalities. The total number of incidents reported, including those overseas, reached 355. September 2023 was noted as having the highest number of incidents, likely due to warmer weather encouraging more diving activity. The report indicates that incident rates in the UK have remained steady since 2014, with variations attributed largely to foreign diving activity reporting. diving fatalities incidents Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com
- How to Properly Maintain Your Scuba Diving Gear for Longevity
Proper maintenance of scuba diving gear is essential for safety and longevity. Rinse all equipment with fresh water after each dive to prevent saltwater damage. Store gear in a cool, dry place and ensure everything is dry before storing to avoid mold. Regularly inspect gear for signs of wear and have important equipment serviced annually by a professional. Following these practices will ensure that your scuba gear remains safe and functional for many dives to come. gear maintenance Nemo Diving Center scuba diving
- Our Top Facts About Clams
Clams are interesting sea creatures that play an important role in ocean ecosystems. They filter water, which helps keep it clean and clear. Clams are also a vital food source for many marine animals, including fish and birds. As a scuba diver, spotting clams can enhance your underwater experience and highlight the diversity of marine life. Understanding their role in the ecosystem can make diving even more enjoyable. clams marine life ocean Original Diving
- Diving solo with the sharks of Tiger Harbour
Diving at Tiger Harbour in the southern Maldives offers a unique experience with tiger sharks. Ekrem Parmaksiz recently visited this renowned location to learn more about these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Over the past eight years, Tiger Harbour has gained popularity among divers, with many visitors eager to see the iconic tiger sharks. Parmaksiz's exploration aimed to go beyond the usual group diving experience, seeking a deeper understanding of shark behavior. Scuba Diver Mag Shark Diving solo diving tiger sharks
- Episode 190 Georgina Miller UK Freedive National Champion
Georgina Miller is a UK Freedive National Champion and runs Aquacity Freediving in Cornwall. She is an SSI Freediving instructor trainer alongside her husband, who is a freediving photographer. The podcast episode features discussions on freediving, highlighting its connection to scuba diving and the ocean. Freediving provides unique experiences and skills that can enhance underwater activities. freediving ocean podcast scuba The BiG Scuba Podcast
- Spooktacular Underwater Adventure: Oyster Diving’s First Halloween Scuba Party at Mercers Lake
Oyster Diving held its first Halloween Scuba Party at Mercers Lake, transforming it into a spooky underwater environment. Around 20 divers explored the lake, filled with ghostly decorations, glow sticks, and underwater pumpkins. After the dive, participants enjoyed food like pumpkin soup and brownies. Due to its success, Oyster Diving plans to make this event an annual celebration with live music and a bar next year. diving Halloween scuba Scubaverse
- Defend Marine Wildlife: Join Sea Shepherd’s Local Chapters
Marine wildlife faces serious threats from illegal fishing, gill nets, and plastic waste. To combat these issues, it's important to join local Sea Shepherd chapters. By volunteering, you can help protect the oceans and the creatures living in them. Activities include beach cleanups, community events, and education efforts. Together, we can make a difference in marine conservation. conservation marine wildlife ocean Sea Shepherd Conservation Society
- Bid now for an Oceanic 31 shark artwork
An exhibition called Oceanic 31 featuring artworks about sharks is finishing its two-year UK tour at the Royal Geographical Society in London. After the exhibition ends, the artworks will be sold in an online auction to support the Shark Trust's Oceanics Programme. The collection includes 31 pieces, each representing a different species of oceanic sharks and rays. These pieces were created by individual artists and include paintings, digital art, sculptures, and mixed media. auction Oceanic Scuba Diver Mag shark
- A DIY Breathing Device For Scuba Diving?
A DIY breathing device for scuba diving has gained attention due to its unusual setup and construction from everyday items. However, while it may function in limited circumstances, it is not recommended for real diving. The article emphasizes the dangers of using such home-made gear without professional guidance. A new product called SCORKL is mentioned, designed for shallow diving with safety features like a pressure gauge. It is aimed at trained divers and is intended for use in depths not exceeding 10 meters. DIY breathing device For Scuba Divers SCORKL shallow diving
- Portuguese man o’ war on the rise in UK and Irish seas
The Portuguese man o' war has seen a significant rise in sightings in UK and Irish seas over the past year. This increase could be due to rising sea temperatures and strong winds pushing them to the coast. Although these creatures are not true jellyfish, their growing presence may indicate changes in the marine ecosystem. New scuba divers should be aware of this species when exploring underwater, as their stings can be harmful. DIVE Magazine Jellyfish marine ecosystem Portuguese man o' war
- Using the Official Curaçao Digital Immigration Card
The Curaçao Digital Immigration Card is essential for all foreign travelers visiting the island. It must be completed within seven days before your flight. To ensure you don't encounter extra fees or risks, visit only the official Curaçao Entry Portal at curacao.com. This process helps maintain a smooth entry and contributes to safe travel. Dive Curaçao offers various diving experiences once you arrive, so ensure your immigration process is hassle-free. Curaçao Digital Immigration Card Dive Curaçao scuba diving
- Micro Four Thirds Macro Lens Menagerie
For underwater photography, choosing the right macro lens in the Micro Four Thirds system is key. The Olympus M.Zuiko ED 30mm f/3.5 Macro is compact and great for larger subjects but may spook shy marine life due to its short focus distance. The Olympus M.Zuiko ED 60mm f/2.8 Macro is a versatile option with excellent sharpness, making it ideal for a range of subjects. The OM System M.Zuiko ED 90mm f/3.5 IS PRO Macro offers the highest magnification and a longer focal length, allowing photographers to capture skittish creatures from a distance. Selecting lenses should depend on your typical underwater subjects and photography goals. DPG RSS Macro Lens marine life underwater photography
- ScubaRadio 11-2-24 HOUR1
Greg The Divemaster presents the results of an experiment involving mermaids and bull sharks. This unique study offers insights into how these two subjects interact in a controlled environment. Additionally, there is a mention of a Halloween idea related to scuba diving, but it seems to be poorly received. The discussion highlights the importance of creativity in diving events. Bull sharks Mermaids podcast scuba diving Scuba Radio
- ScubaRadio 11-2-24 HOUR2
This hour features an interview with a winner of the 2024 Diving Community Champion Award. The conversation highlights contributions to the diving community and celebrates achievements in scuba diving. Additionally, there is a segment with a Scuba Queen, providing insights into her experiences and advocacy within the sport. These discussions aim to inspire new divers and promote active participation in diving activities. Diving Community Champion podcast scuba scuba diving Scuba Radio
- BARE Announces Price Drop on Velocity Ultra Wetsuits
BARE has lowered prices on its Velocity Ultra wetsuits. These wetsuits offer excellent comfort and performance for both cool and warm water diving. The 8/7mm version now costs $579.95, down from $679.95, while the 3mm version is priced at $219.95, reduced from $399.95. Both suits utilize OMNIRED Infrared Technology to help divers stay warm and extend their time underwater. Limited thickness options are still available, so it's important to act quickly. diving scuba Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com Wetsuits
- ‘V6’ blind & paraplegic buddy-pair claim dive record
A blind journalist and a paraplegic amputee from Lancashire are attempting to set a Guinness World Record for scuba diving. Mohammed Salim Patel and Shaun Gash plan to dive in the Red Sea for an hour to a depth of 40 meters. They believe their unique combination of abilities will make them strong divers. Their earlier training in cold water was featured in a BBC documentary series. blind diver Guinness World Records Scuba Diver Mag scuba diving
- Great White Captivity Fails – What Happened To The Sharks?
Great white sharks struggle to survive in captivity. Despite extensive efforts, these powerful predators usually only last around 24 hours in an aquarium before dying. Marine biologists and aquarium professionals have tried many different methods, but the results remain the same. This failure to keep great whites in captivity highlights their unique needs and challenges as ocean animals. Captivity For Scuba Divers Great White Sharks marine biologists
- Review: Alex Mustard’s 52 Assignments in Underwater Photography
Alex Mustard’s book, "52 Assignments in Underwater Photography," is a great resource for new underwater photographers. It contains 52 creative assignments designed to improve skills and inspire imagination. Most of these assignments can be accomplished with basic underwater photography gear at any dive site. The book encourages experimentation, helping divers develop their photography portfolio over time. It's useful for divers who want to challenge themselves on their next underwater adventure. assignments DIVE Magazine diving underwater photography
- Pete Nawrocky Joins OMS as Sales and Distributor Consultant
Pete Nawrocky has joined OMS (Ocean Management Systems) as a Sales and Distributor Consultant. He has been involved in the diving industry since 1976 and has experience working with brands like Dive Rite and DUI. As an active instructor and technical diver, Pete enjoys training and diving in various disciplines. He is excited to support divers in learning about OMS and to go diving himself. DiveNewswire Instructor OMS technical diver
- Underwater Photographer of the Year 2025 is open
The Underwater Photographer of the Year (UPY) contest for 2025 is now accepting entries from November 1, 2024, until January 4, 2025. This year marks the contest's 60th anniversary and features a partnership with PADI as a category sponsor. The competition includes 12 main categories, such as Wide Angle and Macro, and introduces a new category focused on coral reefs. Winners will be announced at an award ceremony and their images showcased globally, emphasizing the importance of underwater photography and marine conservation. Coral reefs DIVE Magazine PADI underwater photography
- Review: Treasures, Shipwrecks and the Dawn of Red Sea Diving, by Howard Rosenstein
"Treasures, Shipwrecks and the Dawn of Red Sea Diving" by Howard Rosenstein captures the early days of Red Sea diving. The book recounts the adventures of scuba pioneers in a time when diving training was minimal. It includes fascinating stories about sunken treasures and famous personalities in the diving community. Rosenstein also navigates the challenges of political unrest, while describing his journey from America to becoming a dive shop owner in Sinai. This engaging read is a must for anyone interested in the history of diving in the Red Sea. DIVE Magazine diving Red Sea scuba
- Chasing Clouds Challenge – Heading to Bonaire
The Chasing Clouds Challenge focuses on sharing photos of clouds from different perspectives. Participants can include images taken from land, sea, or air. The creator plans to post a monthly collection of cloud images. This post offers a fun way for people to engage in photography between their scuba dives. clouds photography scuba Scuba Hank NYC
- ScubaRadio dives with the Bull Sharks of Bimini October 2024!
In October 2024, ScubaRadio will be hosting an exciting diving trip with bull sharks in Bimini. This adventure allows divers to experience close encounters with these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. Participants can expect guidance from experienced divers and receive valuable insights about shark behavior. It is a fantastic opportunity for both new and experienced divers to learn and have fun underwater while exploring the beauty of the ocean. Bimini. Bull sharks scuba diving Scuba Radio
- Episode 390 – Halloween Spooktacular 2024
In this Halloween episode, divers Jamesy and Brando share spooky stories about haunted shipwrecks. They encourage listeners to stay curious and fearless while diving. If you ever encounter something eerie underwater, just keep swimming and enjoy the adventure. This episode blends fun with the thrills of diving into mysterious underwater realms. diving haunted shipwrecks The Great Dive Podcast - Podcasts
- Azores Declares Europe’s Largest Marine Protected Area: A New Era of Ocean Defense
The Azores has established Europe’s largest Marine Protected Area (MPA), covering nearly 900,000 square kilometers. This new area is crucial for protecting essential habitats that support endangered marine life such as whales and dolphins. By limiting fishing and other harmful activities, the MPA aims to help marine ecosystems recover and maintain biodiversity. The Blue Azores program is a key player in this initiative, advocating for stronger ocean conservation efforts. Combined with active enforcement against illegal activities, this MPA can provide valuable safe havens for marine life. biodiversity conservation Marine Protected Area Sea Shepherd Conservation Society
- Race to 100: Help PADI AWARE Foundation Help Ocean Heroes
The PADI AWARE Foundation is on a mission to raise USD $100,000 in 100 days to support ocean conservation projects around the world. They received 150 grant requests from over 31 countries, far exceeding their budget. This program funds initiatives that tackle key ocean issues like climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction. Donations, regardless of size, play a crucial role in helping local organizations drive critical conservation efforts. By donating, you can support these important projects and also have a chance to win a dive trip to the Red Sea. community grants ocean conservation. PADI AWARE. PADI Pros
- PADI Adaptive Diving Week: Celebrating the Accessibility of the Ocean for All
PADI Adaptive Diving Week, happening from December 1-7, 2024, aims to make diving accessible for everyone, regardless of their abilities. PADI creates opportunities for divers with disabilities to explore the ocean, which can be both healing and empowering. This week celebrates dive centers and professionals promoting inclusivity in scuba diving. PADI also offers specialized courses for instructors to help teach diverse abilities. With over 50 accredited Adaptive Services Facilities worldwide, the goal is to ensure the ocean is open for exploration and enjoyment for all. Accessibility adaptive diving Inclusivity PADI Pros
- Auction fundraiser for Sea of Change Foundation
The Sea of Change Foundation is hosting an online auction fundraiser from November 1 to November 30, 2024. This event aims to raise money for conservation efforts that protect our oceans and wildlife. Sponsored by companies like SSI and DAN, the auction features trips like Bahamas Aggressor dive trips and various Watersports gear. All contributions support important environmental projects to safeguard marine ecosystems and promote responsible diving. conservation Dive Trips Scuba Diver Mag Sea of Change Foundation
- BSAC seeks new Audit Committee Chair
The British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) is looking for a new Audit Committee Chair. This position is crucial for overseeing the club’s financial accountability. Interested candidates should have experience in finance or auditing. This role helps ensure that BSAC can continue to support scuba diving activities and promote safety in the sport. British Sub-Aqua Club - News & blog BSAC diving safety
- UPY & DPG photo contests both now open
Two major underwater photography contests have opened for entries this November. The Underwater Photographer of the Year (UPY) 2025 contest highlights prestigious images and is accepting submissions until January 4. This competition has a rich history, marking its 60th anniversary this year with winning images from diverse underwater environments worldwide. The DPG Masters Underwater Imaging Competition 2024 also launched, focusing on bigger prizes and including videography. DPG Masters Scuba Diver Mag underwater photography UPY
- Oceanic31 Auction
The Oceanic31 Auction is an event focused on scuba diving gear and ocean conservation. It features a variety of dive equipment up for bidding. Participants can find items that suit different diving needs. The auction aims to support marine life and promote awareness about ocean health. Overall, it combines the excitement of bidding with a good cause for the ocean. marine life Oceanic31 scuba diving The Shark Trust
- Dive Raja Ampat with Meridian Adventure Dive
Dive Raja Ampat with Meridian Adventure Dive offers flexible diving packages tailored to your schedule. You can enjoy breathtaking underwater experiences with vibrant corals and marine life. Packages range from 6 nights with 10 dives to 10 nights with 18 dives, all including several free dives and accommodations. You will receive high-quality gear and guided tours at famous dive spots. Additional costs include marine park permits and food options. diving packages marine life Raja Ampat Scuba Diver Mag
- Shark Trust launches Oceanic 31 Shark Art Auction
The Shark Trust is hosting the Oceanic 31 Shark Art Auction, featuring artwork of 31 shark and ray species created by various artists. Bidding opened recently and will continue until December 7th. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Shark Trust Oceanics Programme, which helps protect these marine animals. The final exhibition of this collection will be at the Royal Geographical Society from November 26th to December 7th, providing one last chance to view the art before it is sold to support shark conservation efforts. conservation ocean Scubaverse shark
- Race to 100: Help PADI AWARE Foundation Help Ocean Heroes
PADI AWARE Foundation is aiming to raise USD $100,000 in 100 days to support ocean conservation projects worldwide. In the last two years, they received a significant increase in funding requests, highlighting the need for their grant program. These grants assist local projects that address critical ocean issues like climate change and marine debris. Donations of any size will not only help these initiatives but also enter donors into a prize drawing for a liveaboard dive trip to the Red Sea, Egypt. community grant ocean conservation. PADI AWARE.
- 10 Most Dangerous Crustaceans To Know About
Some crustaceans can be dangerous to divers. The article highlights ten of the most dangerous types, including the Japanese Spider Crab, the Mantis Shrimp, and the Coconut Crab. Many crab species are toxic, making only a few safe to eat. Lobster diving can also pose risks due to handling and catching methods. Understanding these dangers can help keep divers safe while exploring underwater environments. crustaceans For Scuba Divers lobster diving marine life
- Tangled Scuba Divers Use Dive Knife To Free Themselves [video]
Carrying a dive knife is crucial for scuba diving safety. In a surprising event, two divers got tangled in their dive flag float line during a dive. Fortunately, they had a dive knife to cut themselves free. This incident underscores the importance of being well-prepared while diving. Managing the float line properly with a line reel could have prevented the situation. dive knife entanglement For Scuba Divers safety
- QUIZ: Marine Life Trivia
Test your knowledge of marine life with an engaging ocean creature quiz. It's a fun way to see how much you know about the fascinating world under the sea. The quiz features various questions that challenge your understanding of marine animals and their habitats. This is an excellent opportunity for both new and experienced divers to learn more about the underwater environment. DIVE Magazine marine life ocean scuba diving
- Photographer of the Week – Brandon Wiese
Brandon Wiese is a talented underwater photographer based in Southern California. Inspired by his twin brother, he became passionate about diving and macro photography, particularly focusing on nudibranchs. After realizing the incredible marine life near his home, he dedicated himself to capturing images of these unique creatures. Not only is Brandon skilled in underwater photography, but he is also a divemaster, allowing him to spend more time exploring the diverse underwater ecosystem of California. DPG RSS nudibranchs Southern California underwater photography
- Announcing the DPG Masters Underwater Imaging Competition 2024
The DPG Masters Underwater Imaging Competition 2024 is now open for entries. This prestigious contest invites underwater photographers and videographers of all skill levels to showcase their work. There are nine categories to compete in, with over $80,000 in prizes available, including dive trips and equipment. The winner will be crowned the "DPG Grand Master 2024" and gain worldwide recognition. Submissions are due by December 31st, 2024, and a portion of entry fees will be donated to marine conservation. Competition DPG RSS Marine Conservation underwater photography
- 200-Year-Old Shipwreck Found Off Spanish Coast
A 200-year-old shipwreck was discovered off the southeast coast of Spain by scuba diver Isaac Guerrero. The wreck, a 70-meter-long steamship, is located about 8 meters underwater and has a hole in its stern, possibly caused by a cannonball. This shipwreck was not found on any government records, making its discovery quite notable. Recent storms may have moved sediment and revealed the wreck site for the first time. scuba diver Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com shipwreck underwater
- Safeguarding Coral Genotypes for the Future with The ‘Tree of Life’
Coral Restoration Foundation aims to preserve the genetic diversity of Florida’s Coral Reef. Genetic sequencing helps identify different genotypes of corals, which is vital for increasing resilience against environmental changes. By planting corals of various genotypes, they ensure that some will survive even in extreme conditions, like rising temperatures. The “Tree of Life” holds a variety of elkhorn coral genotypes as a backup. Plans for future sequencing and re-population of gene banks are underway to protect this vital genetic variety. Coral Coral Restoration Foundation™ genetic diversity reef
- Continue Your PADI Pro Journey With the PADI EMEA Advanced Training Academy
The PADI EMEA Advanced Training Academy is a program for new PADI Instructors or those feeling less confident. This academy helps instructors gain additional skills and knowledge, increasing their confidence and employability. It offers interactive workshops, available in-person or online, over varying lengths of time. The program also adds to your resume and earns you credits for your professional file. instructors PADI PADI Pros Training
- Influential cave-diver Bill Gavin dies
Bill Gavin, a well-known cave diver and co-founder of the Woodville Karst Plain Project (WKPP), has passed away. He was a significant figure in underwater cave exploration, helping to develop safety standards and innovative equipment for divers. Gavin was known for his work in establishing the Hogarthian gear configuration, which later influenced the DIR diving philosophy. He made remarkable discoveries and connections within Florida's flooded cave systems, setting records in the process. His contributions greatly shaped the diving community, and he will be missed by many. cave diving Hogarthian Scuba Diver Mag WKPP
- NOVEMBER 2024 SPEAKER – AN NG
An Ng will be the featured speaker at a virtual meeting on November 12, 2024. She is an expert in underwater macro photography and will show how to use the Olympus TG tough camera effectively. An will also discuss sea slug biodiversity in Semporna, Malaysia. Her dive outfit, Semporna Macro Critters, focuses on exploring lesser-known dive sites and showcasing the beauty of marine life. She believes there are no bad dive sites or cameras and aims to highlight underwater ecosystems. biodiversity macro photography sea slug South Florida Underwater Photography Society
- ‘We’ve bred corals to better tolerate lethal heatwaves’
Scientists have successfully bred corals that can better survive heatwaves caused by climate change. This selective breeding improves their heat tolerance within just one generation, providing hope for coral reef conservation, especially during mass bleaching events. However, the increased resilience of these corals is still not enough to address the severity of future marine heatwaves. Alongside breeding efforts, reducing greenhouse gas emissions remains crucial for protecting coral reefs and allowing these natural adaptations to work. conservation Coral heatwaves Scuba Diver Mag