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!
- The BiG Scuba Podcast Episode 173: DEEP – Making Humans Aquatic
DEEP is creating subsea habitats for humans to live underwater, advancing undersea research and exploration up to 200m. The BiG Scuba Podcast discusses their transformative work.
DEEP humans Scubaverse
- Diving Under The Influence of Nitrogen [video]
Nitrogen Narcosis, also known as being "narced," can affect divers due to breathing compressed air while diving, leading to symptoms similar to alcohol intoxication. The condition occurs due to nitrogen accumulation affecting brain communication. Symptoms can start as shallow as 6ft but are most concerning at 100ft, causing euphoria and potential dangerous behaviors. However, effects disappear upon surfacing, with no long-term damage reported.
- Sea Otters – Amazing and Awesome Facts to Know
Sea otters are fascinating creatures that play a vital role in kelp forests. They are not suitable as pets, but their significance in the ecosystem is immense. A video by Animalogic sheds light on their habits and habitat, revealing surprising details like their daily consumption equivalent to 25% of their body weight.
- Exploring the Depths: The Wonders of Scuba Diving and Its Accessibility
Scuba diving is portrayed as both beautiful and accessible to all divers with advancements in training programs, equipment, and dive destinations. Stories of triumph in the diving community highlight the importance of inclusivity and innovation in creating a more diverse diving environment for individuals of varying abilities. Key themes include accessibility initiatives, certification programs, and the impact of scuba diving on marine conservation efforts.
Accessibility Inclusivity scuba diving
- Golfing and Diving in Curaçao
Curaçao offers top golf courses like Blue Bay and Old Quarry along with excellent scuba diving spots. Combining golf and diving in Curaçao makes for a perfect Caribbean vacation with varied experiences and attractions.
Curaçao scuba diving
- Marine Curios #9 – Periophthalmus modestus or Shuttles hoppfish
Mudskippers, like Periophthalmus modestus, are amphibious fish that can be found in mudflats and swamps. They are classified as Gobiiforms, not true gobies, and have adapted pectoral fins for movement. Shuttles hoppfish, for example, create elaborate nurseries in burrows, where the male incubates the eggs by bringing air from the surface to aid in their development out of water. Their ability to survive on land is due to their large gill chambers that allow them to absorb oxygen. Some mudskippers can spend up to 60 hours out of water and certain species may live three-quarters of their lives on land.
- Cave Diver Jill Heinerth Explains Cave Diving [Video]
Jill Heinerth discusses cave diving in a TED Talk, sharing her passion for exploring underwater caves and collaborating with scientists. She highlights her achievements in this field and emphasizes the importance of underwater exploration in expanding knowledge. Her presentation is both informative and inspiring, potentially sparking new interest in cave diving among viewers.
- BSAC honours 2023 award winners
The website for the British Sub-Aqua Club provides information on learning to dive, membership, policies, training events, and contact details. It also offers options to connect on social media and join the club. Users are informed about the club's use of cookies and given the choice to adjust cookie settings.
British Sub-Aqua Club membership training events
- ScubaRadio 3-2-24 HOUR1
Greg The Divemaster and friends discuss cold water diving options and report on MerMagicCon in the Scuba Radio show.
cold water diving Greg The Divemaster MerMagicCon.
- ScubaRadio 3-2-24 HOUR2
Neal Watson reports on diving Bull sharks in Bimini, and prizes for Beneath the Sea dive show.
Bimini. Bull sharks Neal Watson
- Boston Sea Rovers Show Details Announced
Details for the Boston Sea Rovers 70th Annual Conference & Expo have been announced. The event includes films by notable names like Maxwell Hohn and Jill Heinerth, as well as presentations covering various topics. The show will also feature over 40 exhibitors showcasing dive travel, equipment, training, and art. The event takes place on March 16-17, 2024.
Boston Sea Rovers Conference & Expo Presentations Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com
- Valentina Cafolla smashes under-ice freediving record
Croatian freediver Valentina Cafolla recently broke two world records in under-ice freediving in Italy, setting distances of 140m with a monofin and 80m with double fins. She surpassed previous records, showcasing her skills and overcoming challenges in these groundbreaking feats.
freediving Valentina Cafolla world records
- Freediving Crystal Clear Sinkholes
A couple in Australia explored crystal clear sinkholes as an alternative to traditional diving during COVID lockdowns, sharing their journey in a video.
Australia diving sinkholes
- How Much Does a Scuba Certification Cost?
Scuba certification costs vary, with low prices often lacking inclusions like online training and gear. A certification typically involves knowledge development, skill practice, and open water dives. Saving money on certification can involve starting online for free, taking a Discover Scuba Diving program, or subscribing for discounts. PADI certifications are long-lasting and offer access to a lifelong, eco-friendly sport, making the cost worthwhile.
PADI Scuba certification
- A Short Dolphin Encounter in Bonaire
During a dive in Bonaire, a pod of dolphins surfaced near the divers, offering a magical and memorable encounter.
bonaire Dolphins scuba diving
- ‘I set Fiji anchor’ reveals 91-year-old diver
An elderly diver in South Australia shared the story of how an anchor from the 1891 shipwreck of the three-masted barque Fiji near Moonlight Head in Victoria was turned into a landmark 60 years ago after the ship broke up on rocks due to poor weather and a navigational error.
anchor Fiji shipwreck
- Master Liveaboards announce new boat for Indonesia
Master Liveaboards has introduced a new boat called Indo Master in Indonesia, a modern Indonesian phinisi style liveaboard with 9 cabins for 18 guests, offering comfort and amenities like air conditioning. The boat features a spacious bar, restaurant, dive deck, outdoor lounge area, and sun deck. It will offer various itineraries in Indonesia such as Komodo and Raja Ampat, now open for bookings with launch offers available on their website.
Indo Master Indonesia Master Liveaboards Scubaverse
- BSAC Appoints New Head of Diving and Training
Sophie Heptonstall is appointed as the new Head of Diving and Training at BSAC, bringing her expertise and passion for diving to implement the organization's strategic vision.
BSAC Head of Diving and Training Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com Sophie Heptonstall
- Divers Whacked By Humpback Whale Protecting Her Calf [Video]
Scuba divers encountered a humpback whale protecting her calf, emphasizing the need to respect the space of marine creatures while observing them. The incident occurred during a diving expedition in the Silver Banks Sanctuary in the Dominican Republic.
- 12 Fascinating Shark Videos Reveal Mysteries About Sharks
The article discusses 12 fascinating shark videos from the Smithsonian Channel that reveal mysteries about sharks and their behavior, including feeding habits, hunting techniques, and unique traits. The compilation aims to expand divers' understanding of these creatures and keep diving in mind.
mysteries about sharks Shark videos Smithsonian Channel
- Dive Into Your 30s: PADI Certification & the Joy of Learning to Scuba Dive
Embracing a new adventure at 30, the author shares their journey of obtaining a PADI scuba diving certification in New Zealand and diving in Fiji, highlighting the thrill and beauty of the underwater world. The experience was transformative, offering a deep appreciation for marine ecosystems and a sense of belonging.
PADI certification scuba diving transformative journey
- Curaçao BlueSeas Festival 2024
The Curaçao International BlueSeas Festival in 2024 celebrates blues music in the Pietermaai District, offering a cultural experience and diverse performances, showcasing Curaçao's heritage. The festival aims to connect people through music, promoting cross-cultural understanding and unity through musical talent and warm hospitality. Planners can combine the festival with scuba diving vacations to explore the island's underwater beauty.
Curaçao International BlueSeas Festival Pietermaai District
- The GO Diving Show Happening This Weekend In The UK
The GO Diving Show in the UK this weekend features 40 speakers, underwater photography exhibits, and UK diving insights. The event offers interactive activities, an exhibition space, and Ocean Film Festival screenings. Tickets are available online or at the door, with special discounts for specific attendees.
GO Diving Show Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com speakers UK
- It’s just a piece of duct tape…
When it’s time to fill cylinders to go diving, Nitrox is king. Oxygen Enriched Air, nitrox, EANx, or whatever we want to call it, is mainstream and the default diving gas for SCUBA divers around the globe. Odd to think that when first introduced the established training agencies (the biggest ones), campaigned against nitrox suggesting it was way too complicated for the average diver. Promoting its use, they said, would result in dead divers stacked like cordwood at the water’s edge. WRONG!
- Episode 359 – The Last Dippity Doo Aka The Last Dive
The podcast discusses the book "The Last Dive" by Bernie Chowdhury, focusing on the history and evolution of diving in the 1990s, with a tragic story about wreck diving. Bernie portrays the early technical diving community well, explaining diving nuances for divers and non-divers alike.
Bernie Chowdhury technical diving wreck diving
- #whycoexist 2023 winner Emma Batty recounts her experience
The #whycoexist competition winner Emma Batty shares her marine conservation journey from winning the contest, diving in Seychelles, getting a Divemaster certification in Indonesia, to working on coral sound collection projects and manta ray photography grants with various organizations. She is also involved in marine restoration programs with Blue Corner Dive.
Marine Conservation
- Dive into Paradise: The Best Dive Spots in Cebu for Scuba Enthusiasts
Explore Cebu's top dive spots like Malapascua and Moalboal for thrilling encounters with sharks and sardines. Dive into vibrant coral gardens at Pescador Island and swim with whale sharks in Oslob. Dare canyoneering at Kawasan Falls for an adrenaline rush.
Cebu dive spots sharks
- Faisal Al Mosawi sets Guinness World Record for fastest wheelchair dive
Faisal Al Mosawi, a Kuwaiti diver paralyzed in a car accident, set a new Guinness World Record for the fastest wheelchair scuba dive at the Dubai Aquarium, covering 400m in 37 minutes. This marks his third world record, having previously set records for a 10km dive and a 1km swim. Al Mosawi emphasizes the power of perseverance and human spirit in overcoming limitations through adaptive sports. Follow his advocacy on Instagram.
Guinness World Record wheelchair dive
- Check Out Aqualung’s New REVEAL ULTRAFIT Dive Mask
Aqualung released the REVEAL ULTRAFIT dive mask for $129, featuring interchangeable lenses, silicone skirt for comfort and fit, quick-release buckles, and pressure reduction zones. Available in various colors.
Aqualung dive mask REVEAL ULTRAFIT Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com
- 11th Annual Photo Competition for UN World Oceans Day
The 11th Annual Photo Competition for UN World Oceans Day is open with the theme "Awaken New Depths." Different categories, including underwater and above-water seascapes, are available for submissions until April 7th, 2024. Winners will be announced on June 7th during the UN World Oceans Day event in New York. The competition is a collaboration with various organizations and is judged by renowned photographers.
DPG RSS submissions UN World Oceans Day winners
- WWII Wreck Diving (video)
Scuba divers can explore over 70 coral-covered aircraft wrecks near the Marshall Islands, specifically at Kwajalein Atoll and Roi-Namur, resting around 130 feet deep. These wrecks were intentionally dumped after WWII as it was cheaper than shipping them back to the US. Brandi Mueller captured stunning images of these wrecks, remnants of a successful US mission in 1944. The underwater site is a popular yet restricted military diving location.
aircraft Marshall Islands wrecks
- Episode #93 Tamara Adame – “The Path to Cave Instructor”
Becoming a cave instructor involves training at different levels and gaining experience. Tamara Adame shares her journey to becoming a cave instructor under mentorship, discussing challenges, failures, and successes in achieving the required standards in cave diving. Her passion for caves and diving led her on this path.
Cave instructor Standards Training
- Master Liveaboards Announces New Boat for Indonesia: Indo Master
Master Liveaboards introduces a new boat, the Indo Master, with various cabin options and amenities, including a spacious dive deck and sun deck. The boat offers trips in Komodo and Raja Ampat, among others. Bookings are available with launch offers.
DPG RSS Indo Master Master Liveaboards
- Striving to Save the Ocean: A Non-Diver’s Experience Taking the PADI AWARE Specialist Course
The PADI AWARE Specialist course offers an opportunity for both experienced divers and newcomers to engage in ocean conservation. Divided into eLearning and a workshop with a PADI Pro, the course covers various aspects like ocean awareness, responsible diving practices, and ways to contribute to marine conservation. Completing the course leads to certification and a pledge to protect the oceans. Taking this course can inspire lifestyle changes and responsible decision-making, impacting daily habits and even purchasing choices.
ocean conservation. PADI AWARE Specialist Workshop
- Learn From a Pro How To Become a Treasure Diver – [Video]
Capt. Fismer, a renowned treasure diver, offers workshops for treasure hunting on historic shipwrecks like the Spanish galleons Atocha and Santa Margarita. With over 40 years of experience and work on various shipwrecks, he provides training on finding sunken treasures and navigating related laws. His workshops through SCUBA WIZE aim to share expertise and history with aspiring treasure hunters.
Capt. Fismer Treasure Diving Workshops
- Ocean Lovin – Immaculate Shark-ception
In a seasonal episode of Ocean Lovin, Dr. Christine Dungeon discusses an unusual occurrence known as immaculate shark-ception.
immaculate shark-ception Ocean Lovin Ocean Science Radio podcast
- Ocean Lovin – Immaculate Shark-ception
The Online Ocean Symposium connects ocean professionals and the public through live discussions, events, and podcasts. Topics include sharks, ocean love stories, jellies, and Larvaceans, among others.
ocean professionals Online Ocean Symposium public sharks
- Marine heatwave leads to decline in humpback whales
A recent study links a marine heatwave to a 20% decline in North Pacific humpback whale population, affecting the marine food chain due to reduced phytoplankton nutrients. Scientists used AI to estimate whale populations, noting that continued climate change could lead to more marine heatwaves and further declines impacting ocean health.
AI humpback whales marine heatwave
- Apnea Under Ice – The Ultimate Challenge
Diving under ice presents challenges with cold temperatures and unique photography opportunities. Experienced freedivers participate in events, emphasizing safety and relaxation techniques. Adequate equipment like Mares suits and gloves is vital for underwater comfort. Photographer Marcus shares insights on gear selection and challenges faced in icy conditions, highlighting the importance of preparation and communication during shoots.
Apnea Under Ice MARES photography
- Master Liveaboards New Boat for Indonesia
Master Liveaboards has introduced a new vessel called Indo Master in Indonesia, a modern phinisi style liveaboard with 9 cabins, a mix of twin and double layouts, and a capacity for 18 guests. This boat is built from teak and ironwood, highlighting traditional Indonesian craftsmanship and design.
Indo Master Indonesia Master Liveaboards
- Dive Raja Ampat
Dive Raja Ampat offers exclusive dive packages with accommodations and equipment included. Specials include free nights and dives, with prices ranging from $1470 to $2099. Contact information is provided for booking. Terms and conditions apply to the rates.
accommodations Dive Raja Ampat
- QUIZ: Marine Life – Rays
Read about the various destinations for scuba diving, including Egypt, Fiji, Mexico, the Philippines, St Helena, and Tobago. Each destination has its own unique marine life, dive sites, and activities. Additionally, there is a quiz on marine life focusing on rays.
marine life quiz scuba diving destinations
- Valentine’s Day love-in could save sunflower stars
A collaboration on Valentine's Day successfully induced spawning of sunflower starfish to address declining population due to sea star wasting disease, critical for kelp forest ecosystem balance in the North-eastern Pacific.
spawning sunflower starfish Valentine's Day
- Photographer of the Week – Hank Kollross
Hank Kollross, a passionate underwater photographer, is known as "Scoobz" and focuses on ocean conservation through his photography. He enjoys diving worldwide, especially for blackwater and octopuses, aiming to inspire others to appreciate and protect the oceans. Hank believes in using his photography as a tool for raising awareness about marine ecosystems' fragility.
DPG RSS ocean conservation. Underwater Photography
- Everything You Need to Know About Scuba Diving in Jamaica
Jamaica offers diverse scuba diving experiences with coral reefs, shipwrecks, wall dives, and marine life like sea turtles and sharks. The cost varies, with single dives around $70-$100 and certification courses up to $500. Best dive sites include Falmouth, Negril, and Ocho Rios. The dry season (December to April) is optimal, with clear waters and warm temperatures. Resorts like Beaches and Sandals offer on-site PADI dive shops for guests.
Jamaica marine life scuba diving
- Review Extra: “Everybody Should Scuba Dive” by Kenny Dyal
Kenny Dyal's book "Everybody Should Scuba Dive" bridges childlike wonder with adult curiosity about the underwater world. Dyal, a dive instructor and marketer, simplifies scuba diving concepts for all ages, making it educational and inspiring. The book serves as a guide for scuba certification and ignites curiosity about marine life.
Children's Book Kenny Dyal Scuba Dive Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com
- GO Diving Show – roads open as normal!
Localized flooding around Stoneleigh Park has subsided, and all roads to the GO Diving Show are open, with the main gate and Gate 3 available for entry. Directions to the NAEC can be accessed using What3Words and Waze for a stress-free trip to the venue.
GO Diving Show Stoneleigh Park What3Words.
- Dare you enter… The Cave?
The Cave, a popular attraction at the GO Diving Show, will feature an interactive bouldering wall for the first time, alongside a 30-meter cave, providing a unique experience for novice cave divers. The show will expand to 10,000 sq meters with various stages dedicated to diving topics, stands from different entities, and special ticket discounts for subscribers and certified divers. The event also includes the Ocean Film Festival, offering additional value for attendees.
bouldering wall Cave GO Diving Show
- Bell of WWI shipwreck, USS Jacob Jones, recovered
The bell of the USS Jacob Jones, the first US Navy destroyer sunk in WWI, has been recovered near the UK's Isles of Scilly, after being struck by a torpedo. The Salvage and Marine Operations Team retrieved the bell after it was located by a team of British technical divers. The bell will be displayed in honor of the 64 men who lost their lives.
bell recovery USS Jacob Jones
- Celebrated Local Papuan Dive Guide Simson
Celebrating a local Papuan dive guide named Simson who joined the Meridian Adventure Dive Resort team in January 2018.
dive guide Meridian Adventure Dive Papuan
