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!
- WHY RAID
RAID offers a fun and engaging way to enjoy the ocean, whether you're below the surface or on top of it. They focus on making diving accessible and enjoyable for all levels. RAID encourages divers to explore and connect with the marine environment safely. Their programs are designed to enhance your diving experience and foster a love for the ocean. Dive RAID International diving ocean RAID
- Episode 193 Edward Askham Spencer Commercial Diver and Magician
Edward Askham Spencer is a commercial diver and adventurer with a passion for the sea. He began diving in 2008 with his PADI open water certification, which led to a career in diving. Edward has worked as a wet welder, inspection diver, and subsea burner, among other roles. His experiences include defending ships from pirates and engaging in various diving activities across the globe. He also shares his adventures as a professional speaker and entertainer. commercial diver PADI podcast saturation diver The BiG Scuba Podcast
- Editorial – December 2024
The December 2024 editorial emphasizes the importance of optimizing one's scuba diving experience as divers age. The author, reflecting on personal diving experiences, notes that physical condition, equipment maintenance, and planning are critical to safe diving. He shares insights on working with professionals like physical therapists and nutritionists to create a health optimization plan for diving. The article advocates for sustainable growth in the diving industry, recommending that businesses prioritize effective management rather than unchecked expansion, to ensure a better future for divers and ocean environments. Dive Industry Association Inc. optimization scuba diving sustainable growth
- Editorial – November 2024
In November, the dive industry faces challenges due to varied buyer and seller seasons. The peak purchasing times for diving gear depend on local consumer preferences and the broader market seasonality. Equipment suppliers often struggle to meet consumer demands due to misalignment with product availability and trade shows. There is a call for industry stakeholders to collaborate on improving event scheduling, as November is not ideal for trade events due to market demand and holiday preparations. Finding a better timing could enhance both educational events and trade shows, benefiting manufacturers and professionals alike. dive industry Dive Industry Association equipment suppliers Inc. trade shows
- SDI advantages from TDI
SDI, which stands for Scuba Diving International, grew from TDI, or Technical Diving International, to blend the high safety standards of technical diving with recreational diving training. This agency emphasizes flexibility in equipment and techniques, allowing instructors to tailor training to individual needs. They encourage a real-world approach, teaching divers to use their actual gear instead of mandates on equipment types. Additionally, SDI values experience and innovation, making them a leader in diver training by adapting to modern diver needs and improving safety practices. diving International Training – SDI | TDI | ERDI | PFI SDI TDI
- Why you won’t feel the blackout coming
Freedivers often misunderstand how blackouts can happen underwater. While holding your breath on land, you feel a growing urge to breathe. However, when you come up from an ocean dive, this urge can disappear rapidly, leading to a blackout without warning. This occurs due to the quick drop in oxygen levels as you near the surface. This false belief about breath-holding leads many divers to underestimate risks, making it crucial to dive with a buddy and follow safety practices. blackout freediving International Training – SDI | TDI | ERDI | PFI safety
- Ocean Map Creation Challenge
Only 20% of the world's oceans and seas have been mapped, leaving vast areas unexplored. Understanding these challenges is crucial for ocean conservation. A major initiative aims to map the oceans by 2030 using advanced technologies. This project highlights the importance of ocean mapping and the technical difficulties faced. Despite planned efforts, the maps created may only offer a 5km resolution per pixel. conservation For Scuba Divers mapping oceans
- Dive Guide Touching Marine Life [video]
Touching marine life is generally a bad practice, but a recent video showed dive guides actually grabbing marine life. This type of behavior is disturbing and goes against the idea of respectful interaction with ocean creatures. Most divers only touch marine life lightly, but grabbing it to perform for videos is inappropriate. It's unclear how other divers reacted once they surfaced and if anyone addressed the guide's actions. dive guide For Scuba Divers marine life scuba diving
- Motion Blur Photography: Front Versus Rear Curtain
Motion blur photography captures the chaos of the underwater world by using slow shutter speeds. There are two main flash settings: front curtain sync and rear curtain sync. Front curtain sync fires the flash at the start of the exposure, which is good for tracking moving subjects like sharks. Conversely, rear curtain sync fires at the end, best for unpredictable movements, producing a more natural blur. Ambient light is essential for creating motion; without it, your flash will freeze the subject, eliminating the desired effect. DPG RSS motion blur slow shutter underwater photography
- ScubaRadio 12-14-24 HOUR2
The ScubaRadio holiday tradition carries on in this hour. The show includes a light-hearted tone and humorous elements. This approach makes topics related to scuba diving more enjoyable for listeners. By blending fun with information, the program engages both new and experienced divers during the holiday season. diving holiday podcast Scuba Radio ScubaRadio
- Nature Photographer of the Year 2024 Results Announced
The Nature Photographer of the Year 2024 results were announced, highlighting outstanding underwater images. The winner in the Underwater category is Andrey Shpatak for his striking photo of a giant Pacific octopus. The runner-up is Luca Luigi Mario Ghezzi with a delightful image of two catfish. Franco Banfi received high commendation for his portrait of a Portuguese man o' war, and other notable works included various intriguing ocean creatures captured by different photographers. DPG RSS Octopus photography underwater
- Mandarinfish Twilight Rendezvous
Twilight dives at Magic Pier in Indonesia offer a chance to witness the unique courtship rituals of mandarinfish. These fish, known for their bright colors and striking patterns, emerge from their hiding spots during sunset to perform complex mating dances. The males showcase their size and vibrant colors while courting females, leading to an exciting spectacle underwater. This area, less crowded than other dive sites, provides a fantastic opportunity for divers to observe and photograph these mesmerizing fish in their natural behavior. courtship diving mandarinfish Underwater Journal
- Wakatobi’s Pelagian Dive Yacht
Wakatobi's Pelagian Dive Yacht offers a luxurious liveaboard experience for divers in Indonesia's Wakatobi Regency. With only ten guests accommodated in spacious cabins, Pelagian is designed like a luxury yacht. The yacht provides excellent amenities, professional crew, and fine dining, ensuring a high level of service. Divers have access to pristine reefs and diverse marine life, including opportunities for muck diving, which reveal unique sea creatures. A variety of dive sites, both stunning and mysterious, guarantees exciting adventures on every trip. diving Pelagian Underwater Journal Wakatobi
- Tips for Photographing Mandarinfish
To take great photos of mandarinfish, use a macro lens suitable for your camera type, usually around 50-60mm for DSLR or mirrorless options. Set your camera to a shutter speed of 1/125 to 1/200 seconds, with an aperture between F/19 to F/22, starting at ISO 200. Before diving, find a good spot that avoids disturbing the fish. Use red light for minimal disruption and be patient to capture their mating, which lasts only a few seconds. Understanding their behavior and movements will help you take stunning shots. Macro Lens mandarinfish Underwater Journal underwater photography
- Where the Pros Choose to Dive: Kyalami DMs Weigh in on the Best Local Sites
The pros at Kyalami choose from many exceptional dive sites due to their beauty and diversity. They appreciate the unique experiences each site offers and encourage divers to explore. After diving, they want feedback from others on their favorite sites and why they found them special. This feedback helps everyone share and discover more about local diving spots. Dive Blog dive sites local diving scuba diving
- Breathing Techniques For Scuba Divers
Breathing techniques are essential for improving your scuba diving experience. New divers often take big breaths, which can affect buoyancy and lead to wasted air. Instead, focus on deep belly breathing, which enhances efficiency by minimizing carbon dioxide buildup. This helps divers feel less "starved" for air and allows for better control while photographing marine life. Good breathing not only maximizes bottom time but also positively affects buoyancy and positioning for capturing underwater images. Breathing buoyancy For Scuba Divers scuba diving
- Body of missing North Wales diver found
The body of a missing diver from North Wales has been found. Imrich Magyar, 53, disappeared on November 28. His body was discovered in the Llangwndal area of Pwllheli on December 7. He was last seen near Porth Ysgaden on the Llyn Peninsula. The police do not suspect any foul play in his death. DIVE Magazine diver missing North Wales
- Marine Life in Bonaire: A Guide to the Island’s Coolest Underwater Encounters
Bonaire is a diver’s paradise with over 470 fish species and 80 dive sites. The island's environmental protections help maintain a vibrant underwater ecosystem. Divers can encounter stunning marine life like eagle rays, sea turtles, and colorful flamingo tongue snails. Other unique species include lettuce sea slugs, seahorses, and tarpon. The clear waters and diverse animals make Bonaire an unforgettable destination for diving enthusiasts. bonaire diving marine life
- Shark & Marine Life Tracker ( Real Time Location Map) – Sharks, Alligators, Seals, Dolphins, Turtles, Whales & Great White Sharks
OCEARCH's shark tracker is a tool that helps track the movements of various marine animals, including great white sharks. Recently, there have been more sightings of these sharks along the North Carolina and South Carolina coasts. This increase is thought to be due to abundant food and favorable water temperatures in the area. Sharks can be tracked from as far north as Nova Scotia to as far south as Florida. You can view their real-time locations and learn more through the OCEARCH shark tracker. For Scuba Divers Great White Sharks marine animals shark tracker
- Water Water Everywhere – Sunsets & Boats
As the sun sets over Sint Eustatius, the sky fills with beautiful colors like gold, red, and lavender. The waves reflect this vibrant display, creating a stunning view of the sea. This moment encourages everyone to appreciate the simple beauty of nature. Sunsets like these remind divers of the ocean’s magic and its serene atmosphere. ocean Scuba Hank NYC Sint Eustatius sunset
- ScubaRadio 12-14-24 HOUR1
The annual ScubaRadio Christmas Crapstravaganza is presented by Greg The Divemaster and his friends. This year's event was recorded at the Gomez Hilton. It highlights the fun and excitement of scuba diving during the holiday season. Listeners can enjoy themed discussions and activities related to scuba diving. Christmas diving podcast Scuba Radio ScubaRadio
- Introducing the SP Neoprene Suit from DYNAMICNORD
The SP Neoprene Suit from DYNAMICNORD is designed for maximum comfort and flexibility for divers. It features a smart 3D cut, pre-shaped arms and legs, and zippers for easy wear. The suit is made from eco-friendly neoprene sourced from limestone, and it includes protections at high-wear areas. The SP series comes in 5mm and 7mm thicknesses, suitable for both men and women in various sizes, promoting a stylish and functional choice for scuba diving. comfort Neoprene scuba diving Scubaverse
- Dive Tables 3 (A Hard Look)
In the mid-1990s, personal computers made dive planning easier with decompression software. This change led to a different approach for ascent profiles, even while divers were still using traditional navy dive tables. The discussion highlights the shift in technology and practices for safer diving. It reflects on how divers adapted to new tools while building on older methods. ascent profiles decompression dive tables The Great Dive Podcast - Podcasts
- Christmas gifts for scuba divers
Christmas is a great time to find special gifts for scuba divers. There are many options that cater to different budgets. Helpful gadgets, gear, and underwater accessories can enhance a diver's experience. Think about items that are practical, fun, or educational related to scuba diving or the ocean. These thoughtful gifts will surely make any diver smile this holiday season. DIVE Magazine gifts ocean scuba divers
- Alex Mustard appointed president of the British Society of Underwater Photographers
Dr. Alex Mustard has been appointed as the new President of the British Society of Underwater Photographers (BSoUP). This position had been vacant since the previous president's death in 2021. Mustard has a PhD in marine ecology and has been a professional photographer since 2004. He is recognized for his contributions to the field and aims to inspire and support underwater photographers. The BSoUP was established to help photographers share knowledge and enhance their skills in capturing stunning underwater images. British Society of Underwater Photographers DIVE Magazine marine ecology underwater photography
- The Deepest Point on Earth Is Not Challenger Deep?
Challenger Deep is the deepest known point in the ocean, reaching about 26,200 feet. However, it is not the deepest point on Earth. The Kola Superdeep Borehole in Russia goes even deeper, measuring 40,230 feet. Drilling for this borehole took 20 years and stopped due to high temperatures. This highlights that the depths of our planet are more complex than we often realize. Challenger Deep For Scuba Divers Kola Superdeep Borehole ocean
- Protecting the Galápagos
The Galápagos Islands are a vital marine habitat known for their unique species and biodiversity. Sadly, illegal fishing and wildlife trafficking threaten this ecosystem. Sea Shepherd is actively working to protect the area through various initiatives, including a K9 Unit that stops illegal wildlife trafficking and supporting stronger environmental laws. They also focus on educating local youth to foster long-term conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of this remarkable environment for future generations. conservation Galapagos marine life Sea Shepherd Conservation Society
- Crosskix Launches Tetra Style Dive Fin Shoe
Crosskix has launched the Tetra Style Dive Fin Shoe at the DEMA Show in Las Vegas. This shoe is favored by divers, especially those who use open-heel fins. Its lightweight, quick-drying design makes it perfect for both diving and land activities. Additionally, the shoe offers quick drainage and breathability, enhancing comfort for beach days or underwater adventures. dive diving fins Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com
- Great White Sharks Comeback In The Atlantic
Great white sharks are making a comeback in the North Atlantic, especially near Cape Cod. Since being granted federal protection in 1997, their numbers have risen significantly. Many sharks are now spotted close to the shore, drawn by their favorite prey, grey seals. Researchers are tagging these sharks to study their movement and behavior, confirming that they often return to the same hunting grounds every year. Cape Cod has become known as a "hot spot" for these majestic predators. Cape Cod For Scuba Divers Great White Sharks marine life
- Backscatter Publishes Settings Guide for GoPro HERO13
Backscatter has published a complete guide for the GoPro HERO13 Black to help underwater photographers achieve high-quality results. The guide includes essential accessory recommendations like macro and wide-angle lenses, as well as settings for different types of underwater video and photography. A detailed video features tips on creating custom presets for various shooting scenarios. Further, there’s a download option for a handy settings "cheat sheet" to assist divers in the field. This guide is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their underwater filming experience. DPG RSS GoPro HERO13 presets underwater photography
- Introducing the TR-80, IR-50 and CS-30 Regulators from DYNAMICNORD
DYNAMICNORD has introduced three new regulators: the TR-80, IR-50, and CS-30. These regulators are designed to enhance comfort and breathing efficiency for scuba divers. The TR-80 features an innovative design that improves flow rate, while the IR-50 offers great performance at various depths. CS-30 is lightweight and perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. Each model aims to provide reliability and ease of use underwater. CS-30 IR-50 Scubaverse TR-80
- Clean Water Sports Alliance wins environmental award
Clean Water Sports Alliance has received an environmental award for its efforts to protect ocean health. This organization promotes clean practices in water sports, which benefits scuba diving and marine life. Their initiatives help reduce pollution and protect underwater ecosystems. The award highlights how important it is to keep our oceans clean for future generations. British Sub-Aqua Club - News & blog Clean Water Sports Alliance environmental award ocean
- QUIZ: Marine Life – Myth vs. Fact
The quiz titled "Marine Life – Myth vs. Fact" invites readers to test their knowledge about ocean creatures. It challenges misconceptions about marine animals and their behaviors. By participating in the quiz, scuba divers and ocean enthusiasts can learn essential facts and separate them from common myths. This understanding enhances their appreciation and safety while exploring underwater environments. DIVE Magazine marine life ocean scuba diving
- New threats to the Florida manatee raise conservation concerns
The Florida manatee, a beloved marine mammal, is facing new threats that could endanger its survival. Climate change is causing harmful algal blooms which reduce the availability of seagrass, their primary food source. As a result, manatees in the Indian River Lagoon are now consuming algae, but the long-term health effects of this diet shift are unclear. Despite recent conservation efforts, mortality rates remain high, indicating urgent action is needed to protect these gentle giants and their habitat. climate change International Training – SDI | TDI | ERDI | PFI manatee Seagrass
- Amazon Ditches Plastic Air Pillows in North America
Amazon will stop using plastic air pillows in North America, eliminating nearly 15 billion of them annually. This decision comes after years of campaigning by Oceana to reduce plastic waste, which is detrimental to marine life. Plastic air pillows, made from flexible film, are often not recyclable and instead contribute to ocean pollution and harm to wildlife. Amazon will replace the plastic pillows with recycled paper fillers, a significant move for the environment and marine conservation efforts. marine life Oceana plastic
- There Are No Barriers in Scuba Diving, as Proven by One Instructor & Adaptive Diver
Scuba diving can provide incredible opportunities for everyone, demonstrated by Nic Carapanagiotu, a determined adaptive diver. Born with two short arms, Nic embraced scuba diving as a way to pursue his passions. He became a PADI Pro after completing over 1,000 dives and working with instructors on adaptive techniques tailored to his needs. Nic's journey shows that with creativity and support, barriers in diving can be overcome, inspiring others to follow their dreams in the underwater world. adaptive PADI Pro scuba diving
- Crazy Faceplants & Scuba Entry Fails [videos]
Scuba diving can lead to some amusing moments, especially during entry fails. Videos show divers being tossed into the water, which can be entertaining but also concerning for safety. Even professional divers can have trouble with back entries, resulting in comical situations. It's important to remember that everyone was a beginner at some point, and these laughs serve as a reminder of the learning process in scuba diving. While it's fun to watch these fails, proper training is essential for safe diving experiences. entry fails For Scuba Divers scuba diving Training
- Diver’s Lift Chair for Entry and Seated Safety Stops
Diver’s Lift Chair is a new innovation for safely lifting scuba divers from the water. The chair is used at the Frying Pan Tower, a structure 90 feet above sea level in the Atlantic Ocean. It allows divers to be lowered 20 feet into the water to conduct their safety stops before being lifted out. This system is safer than traditional methods and is particularly useful on rough days. The chair helps ensure divers can exit safely while managing the weight of their gear. Diver's Lift Chair For Scuba Divers Frying Pan Tower safety stops
- Photographer of the Week – Erhan Onfidan
Erhan Onfidan is an amateur underwater photographer originally from Turkey, now living in Melbourne, Australia. He started his photography journey by using a GoPro while snorkeling and later got certified as a diver and switched to a compact camera. Recently, Erhan upgraded to a mirrorless camera system, which has improved his underwater photography skills, especially in macro and wide-angle shots. He enjoys photographing diverse marine life in various dive locations around Melbourne, which fuels his passion for exploring the ocean. DPG RSS marine life scuba diving underwater photography
- Our Top Ten Biggest Sea Creatures
This article highlights the ten largest sea creatures, including whales, sharks, and jellyfish. These animals play crucial roles in ocean ecosystems and can often be seen during scuba dives. The blue whale, for example, is the largest animal on Earth and can reach over 100 feet long. Exploring the underwater world can provide divers with a chance to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats. Understanding their sizes and behaviors can enhance a diver's experience and appreciation for marine life. ocean Original Diving scuba diving sea creatures
- Buy A $300 Regulator or An $800 Regulator? [video]
When buying a new scuba regulator, it’s important to understand the differences between lower-end and higher-end options. Both types will supply air effectively, but pricier models include extra features like balanced first stages and adjustable second stages. For recreational divers who dive ten times a year or less, a $300 regulator is often sufficient. The choice really depends on how often and the types of dives you plan to do. air supply For Scuba Divers regulator scuba diving
- Wellness Tourism and Diving in Curaçao
Wellness tourism in Curaçao focuses on improving overall health and well-being through activities like scuba diving and freediving. These activities are not only fun but also enhance physical fitness and promote stress relief. Diving in Curaçao’s crystal-clear waters lets travelers experience vibrant marine life while encouraging relaxation and mindfulness. The island is a top spot for divers, offering various underwater environments and emphasizing sustainable practices that protect its marine ecosystems. Dive Curaçao freediving scuba diving wellness tourism
- British diver’s 2019 death in Australia may have been IPO linked to alcoholism
In 2019, British diver Karl Bareham died while diving at Julian Rocks in Australia. An inquest revealed that his death may have been caused by Immersion Pulmonary Oedema (IPO) linked to chronic alcohol abuse. Bareham was found unresponsive on the sea floor with his regulator out of his mouth. Medical experts indicated that his history of alcoholism, combined with his physical health issues, likely contributed to a sudden event that led to his drowning. The inquiry also raised concerns about the dive equipment he used, suggesting that it may not have been appropriate for safe diving. DIVE Magazine IPO regulator scuba diving
- Transparent Kayak – A 36 Hour Survival Challenge
Surviving in a transparent kayak for 36 hours is a thrilling challenge that combines adventure with marine interaction. The journey takes participants from a stunning coastline to remote islands, where they must live, eat, and sleep in the kayak. Along the way, divers can enjoy spearfishing and meeting various marine life, making the experience even more exciting. While the straightforward survival aspect might seem dull, the underwater adventures add remarkable fun. For Scuba Divers Kayak diving marine life spearfishing.
- Tributes paid as body of missing Cornwall diver found
Andrew McKnight, a 76-year-old diver, was reported missing after a dive near Falmouth, Cornwall, on September 22. Despite extensive search efforts by multiple agencies, his body was found almost three months later on December 8 at Portholland Beach, about 12 miles from the dive site. He was a qualified diver and dive instructor, and his family expressed deep sorrow at his passing. They thanked the diving community and rescue teams for their efforts over the weeks. Cornwall DIVE Magazine diving rescue
- Don’t Wait: Triple Your Impact to Defend the Oceans by December 31
Sea Shepherd is actively protecting marine wildlife and our oceans with its ships and crew. They are currently focused on removing dangerous ghost nets and preparing for major ocean defense efforts in 2025. Until December 31, donations can be tripled due to a matching challenge, which helps fund critical actions against poaching and protects ecosystems. Supporting these efforts ensures the continuation of their important work for future generations. ghost nets marine wildlife ocean defense Sea Shepherd Conservation Society
- Catch some winter sun with BSAC Travel Partners
Dive into winter sun with BSAC Travel Partners by exploring exciting scuba diving destinations. These partnerships offer trips to warmer climates, making it a perfect opportunity for divers to enhance their skills while enjoying beautiful underwater locations. You can find various options that cater to different experience levels, ensuring everyone can join in on the aquatic fun. Traveling with BSAC also means joining a community of divers, making your experience even more enjoyable. British Sub-Aqua Club - News & blog BSAC scuba diving underwater
- Shark and ray populations halved by overfishing in last 50 years
A recent study reveals that shark, ray, and chimaera populations have declined by over 50% in the past 50 years due to overfishing, pollution, and climate change. These animals are vital for ocean ecosystems as they help maintain the balance of marine life. Currently, one-third of these species are at risk of extinction, with the situation worsening. Conservation efforts are gaining recognition globally and show promise in improving shark and ray populations. Effective fishery management is crucial to restoring the health of our oceans. conservation DIVE Magazine rays sharks
- GROUNDTRUTH and PADI Launch Diver-Inspired Drybag Collection
GROUNDTRUTH and PADI have launched an eco-friendly drybag collection called UNDA. These bags are made from 100% recycled materials, including ghost fishing nets and post-consumer plastics, promoting ocean conservation. The collection includes various designs, like a waterproof roll-top backpack and cross-body pouches, tailored for divers' needs. Every purchase contributes to removing harmful plastics from the ocean, highlighting the importance of protecting marine environments. drybags ocean conservation. PADI Pros recycled materials
- QUIZ: True or False – Marine Life
The "True or False – Marine Life" quiz is designed to test your knowledge about ocean creatures. It challenges participants to identify facts about marine life, which can be both informative and fun. Engaging with quizzes helps divers learn about different species they may encounter underwater. This not only enhances their diving experience but also promotes marine conservation awareness. DIVE Magazine diving marine life ocean
