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!
- Featured Photographer – Justine Tan
Justine Tan is a medical doctor from Sabah, Malaysia, who is passionate about scuba diving and underwater macro photography. She started diving in 2015, initially fascinated by large marine animals like sharks and turtles. Over time, her focus shifted to the smaller, often overlooked marine creatures, especially nudibranchs. Using her OM System OM1 Mk1 camera, she captures the vibrant colors and intricate details of these tiny subjects. Justine aims to dive at notable macro sites and share the beauty of the underwater world through her photography. DIVE Magazine macro photography nudibranchs scuba diving
- French Polynesia: The Treasures of Tahiti and Her Islands
French Polynesia offers incredible opportunities for scuba divers, especially around Tahiti and Mo’orea. Divers can encounter humpback whales during their migration from August to November. The area is also home to a shark sanctuary, where divers can see blacktip reef sharks and friendly stingrays. Fakarava’s South Pass is known for thrilling dives with various shark species and stunning coral gardens. Lastly, Rangiroa’s Tiputa Pass is famous for its bottlenose dolphins and diverse marine life. DPG RSS humpback whales scuba diving shark sanctuary
- Elevate Your Divemaster Internship Opportunities – Join the Global Campaign!
The PADI Divemaster Internship Campaign is going global in 2025, offering dive centers an opportunity to connect with aspiring divers. By listing internship opportunities on the PADI website, dive centers can reach a wider audience of motivated candidates looking to start a diving career. This campaign provides global exposure and increased visibility for dive centers, while also simplifying marketing efforts. Dive centers are encouraged to take part and inspire the next generation of skilled diving professionals. Divemaster internship PADI PADI Pros
- Divers Alert Network Launches New ‘DANCast’ Podcast Series
The Divers Alert Network has launched a new podcast series called DANCast. This series aims to provide safety insights for divers through engaging discussions with industry experts. The episodes will cover a range of topics, including scientific research and conservation efforts. DANCast's first season started on January 22, with new episodes released every two weeks. You can listen to the podcast on platforms like Spotify and YouTube. conservation Divers Alert Network safety Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com
- Freediver Dives Past Grim Reaper at Vortex Springs 300ft Inside Cave To Piano Room
A freediver recently made headlines by diving 300 feet into Vortex Springs, reaching the mysterious "Piano Room." This feat is extraordinary, as cave diving typically requires scuba equipment due to the challenges of underwater caves. The freediver appeared to use air pockets along the way, adding to the intrigue of the dive. However, experts caution that such an attempt is extremely dangerous and not recommended for most divers. Watching the video of this incredible dive highlights the risks and challenges of freediving in caves. cave diving For Scuba Divers freediving Vortex Springs
- FEBRUARY 2025 SPEAKER – LUREEN FERRETTI
Lureen Ferretti will be the speaker at the SFUPS meeting on February 18, 2025. She is a nature photographer specializing in underwater imagery, passionate about capturing marine life and its vibrant beauty. Ferretti aims to raise awareness about the ocean's vulnerability through her photography. She will share tips for planning successful underwater photographic adventures, helping others explore the ocean while promoting conservation. conservation marine life South Florida Underwater Photography Society underwater
- BSAC to bring workshops, awards and ocean action to Go Diving Show
The British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) will host exciting workshops and award ceremonies at the Go Diving Show. This event aims to engage divers and non-divers alike in ocean conservation efforts. BSAC will highlight the importance of marine safety and conservation education through interactive sessions. Attendees can look forward to learning valuable diving skills and connecting with the diving community. British Sub-Aqua Club - News & blog BSAC diving ocean
- Book onto BSAC workshops at Go Diving Show
The British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) is offering workshops at the Go Diving Show. These workshops are designed for both new and experienced divers to enhance their skills and knowledge. Participants can learn about safety procedures, dive planning, and marine conservation. It's a great opportunity to connect with fellow divers and the diving community. British Sub-Aqua Club - News & blog BSAC diving Workshops
- DAN Launches The DANcast, a Podcast To Inspire Better, Safer Diving
The DANcast is a new podcast by the Divers Alert Network focused on promoting safer diving. It features conversations with various professionals in the diving industry, including safety experts and underwater photographers. The show combines personal stories with practical information to help divers make better choices during their underwater adventures. New episodes will be released every two weeks, starting January 22, 2025. DANcast Divers Alert Network diving safety
- Blue Heron Bridge Dive Site: A Local Treasure
The Blue Heron Bridge dive site is a great location for scuba diving, especially when weather conditions are rough for boat dives. It's excellent during winter months for those sensitive to choppy waters or cold surface intervals. New divers should consider hiring a guide to help navigate the area and avoid boat channels, as well as to enhance their spotting skills for interesting marine life. Planning your dive around the tides is essential for a successful experience at this popular shore dive site. blue heron bridge Dive Blog marine life scuba diving
- A Call for Change in the Faroe Islands Campaign
Protecting whales and dolphins in the Faroe Islands is vital. Sea Shepherd emphasizes the need for local leadership in activism, moving away from "us vs. them" attitudes and instead prioritizing community voices. The traditional practice of grindadráp faces increasing scrutiny due to changing societal values, and it is essential to shift advocacy efforts towards effective collaboration with local activists. Building trust and understanding within the community will support sustainable change and foster a stronger commitment to ocean protection. activism Dolphins Sea Shepherd Conservation Society whales
- Love Wreck Diving? 10 Great Wrecks To Explore
Wreck diving is an exciting way to explore underwater history while observing marine life. The article highlights ten fantastic wrecks for divers of all skill levels, including the SS Thistlegorm in the Red Sea, the USS Kittiwake in the Cayman Islands, and the Zenobia in Cyprus. Each wreck varies in depth and experience level required, and they offer unique opportunities to encounter various fish species and artifacts. Wreck diving provides a mix of adventure, discovery, and education about past events. Mares – Scuba Diving Blog marine life scuba diving wreck diving
- 5 Effective Ways Scuba Diving Conservation Empowers Divers
Scuba diving conservation is crucial for protecting marine environments and empowering divers. Divers can raise awareness about ocean issues and participate in citizen science programs, which can be either supervised or unsupervised. Through coral reef restoration and responsible diving practices, such as minimizing environmental impact, divers actively contribute to conservation efforts. Supporting sustainable dive tourism also helps ensure future generations can enjoy diving experiences and marine ecosystems. Ultimately, divers serve as advocates for the ocean, making a significant impact on marine conservation. coral reef Marine Conservation scuba diving Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com
- Amazing Shark Charmer [Video]
The video "Amazing Shark Charmer" presents a new perspective on sharks, showing that they can feel pain and pleasure. Instead of being just fierce predators, sharks like Tiger and Lemon sharks are depicted as playful and capable of interactive behaviors with humans. This challenges common beliefs about sharks and highlights their important role in marine ecosystems. Excessive shark fishing is a concern that threatens their existence, and the video encourages a change in how we view these creatures. For Scuba Divers marine life scuba diving sharks
- Monterey Bay, California: Cold-Water Diving at Its Best
Monterey Bay, California, is an amazing place for cold-water diving, offering rich marine life and diverse ecosystems. Divers of all levels can enjoy the stunning kelp forests and encounter various animals like harbor seals, sea lions, and vibrant nudibranchs. Popular dive sites include Breakwater Cove, McAbee Beach, Monastery Beach, and Point Lobos, each providing unique underwater experiences. Proper gear and buoyancy control are essential for safe diving in this unpredictable environment. Connecting with a local dive center like Bamboo Reef can enhance your diving adventure in Monterey Bay. cold water diving International Training – SDI | TDI | ERDI | PFI marine life Monterey Bay
- ScubaRadio live studio video feed for 1-25-25.
ScubaRadio is a live radio show dedicated to diving that airs every Saturday from 3-5 PM EST. It features hosts Greg The Divemaster and friends discussing the latest dive news and sharing stories in a fun, casual atmosphere. The show is available both live and as podcasts, making it easily accessible for divers everywhere. Fans can join the conversation through various platforms, including phone calls and emails. broadcast diving Scuba Radio ScubaRadio
- Robert WAN Protects the Ocean’s Jewels
Robert WAN, known as the "Emperor of Tahitian Pearls," is dedicated to ocean sustainability and producing high-quality pearls in Tahiti’s clean lagoons. His family business collaborates with Oceana and emphasizes the importance of ocean health for their livelihood. The pearl cultivation process involves careful manual labor and takes several years, while they face challenges like rising ocean temperatures and microplastic pollution. Richard WAN, his grandchild, highlights their commitment to reminding others about the global impact of local practices and maintaining a healthy ocean to ensure their business's success. microplastics ocean sustainability Oceana pearls
- Gear Review: STAHLSAC 34Lt Travel Dive Bag
The STAHLSAC 34Lt Travel Dive Bag is designed for divers who travel. It is durable and spacious enough to hold diving gear. The bag features multiple compartments and a waterproof construction, keeping equipment secure and dry. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry on trips, making it a great option for scuba diving adventures. dive bag scuba diving Scubaverse Stahlsac
- Review: Insta360 X4 – the 360° 8K action camera
The Insta360 X4 is a powerful 360° action camera that captures stunning 8K footage, making it ideal for underwater filming. Its dual lenses allow for full spherical views, giving users the ability to choose angles later when editing. The camera can dive up to 50 meters when used with the Invisible Dive Case, which helps correct light distortion underwater. Accessories like the Invisible Selfie Stick enhance filming by making it look like the camera is floating, allowing for better shots of marine life without disturbing them. Overall, the X4 offers great features and is user-friendly for divers wanting to document their underwater adventures. camera DIVE Magazine marine underwater
- You’re biased, I’m biased, We are all biased!
Cognitive biases can affect our decision-making in scuba diving and related incidents. When accidents happen, we might believe outcomes were obvious because of hindsight bias. Similarly, severity bias makes us judge situations more harshly based on the outcome's severity. Lastly, confirmation bias leads us to look for single causes for incidents instead of understanding the complex factors at play. By recognizing these biases, we can improve our learning and decision-making processes in diving situations. cognitive biases Decision-making diving The Human Diver Blog
- CAYAGO presents the new SEABOB F9 in the Design by Studio F. A. Porsche
The new SEABOB F9, designed by Studio F. A. Porsche, is set to be revealed at boot 2025 in Düsseldorf. This latest version of the popular electric water sled offers impressive thrust performance, with speeds over 20 km/h and a battery life of up to one hour. Weighing just over 20 kg, it is crafted using high-quality materials like titanium and carbon for a lightweight design. The SEABOB F9 aims to provide a stylish and functional experience for water sports enthusiasts while remaining environmentally friendly. e-mobility Scubaverse SEABOB water sled
- QUIZ: Crabs
This quiz tests your knowledge about crabs, which are interesting crustaceans found in oceans worldwide. Crabs are significant in marine ecosystems and are often spotted by divers. They come in various species, each with unique features and behaviors. Understanding crabs can enhance your scuba diving experience by helping to identify them underwater. crabs DIVE Magazine marine ecosystems scuba diving
- How to Plan a Memorable Valentine’s Day Scuba Diving Trip
Planning a Valentine’s Day scuba diving trip is a unique way for couples to bond while exploring breathtaking underwater environments. Choose a dive location in Dubai, like Jumeirah Beach or Fujairah, based on your experience level and interests. Ensuring you have the right scuba gear is essential, and consider taking a beginner or refresher course if you're new to diving. It's important to book your diving trip in advance to secure a spot and explore special Valentine's Day packages. Don’t forget safety protocols, and enjoy a romantic experience after the dive, such as underwater dining or a beach picnic. Dubai marine life Nemo Diving Center scuba diving
- CAYAGO Unveils The New SEABOB F9 Designed by Studio F. A. Porsche
CAYAGO has introduced the SEABOB F9, a new electric water sled designed for exciting underwater experiences. This model offers impressive thrust performance, reaching speeds over 20 km/h while remaining lightweight at just over 20 kg. The SEABOB F9 features an advanced design by Studio F.A. Porsche, focusing on both aesthetics and hydrodynamic efficiency. Its battery allows for about an hour of activity, making it a great option for divers looking to enhance their underwater exploration. diving Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com SEABOB underwater
- Youth Leaders Unite: Tackling Ocean Pollution with EarthEcho
In 2024, Ocean Wise collaborated with EarthEcho International for the GenSea Shoreline Cleanup Challenge. This initiative granted funds to 20 young leaders in the U.S. to organize local cleanup events, resulting in the removal of 258 kilograms of litter, mostly plastic pieces. Youth participants reported feeling empowered and inspired to tackle plastic pollution in their communities. This project not only impacted the environment but also fostered a sense of responsibility and community engagement among the young leaders involved. ocean pollution Ocean Wise plastic pollution shoreline cleanup
- DEMA Releases Full Detailed Analyses of Diving Customer Research
DEMA has released detailed reports analyzing the demographics of divers. The research studied over 7,000 scuba consumers who made purchases in the last three years. It focuses on four key segments: Open Water Divers, Continuing Education Divers, Dive Equipment Buyers, and Dive Travel Buyers. These insights help DEMA members understand their customers and improve marketing strategies. The reports detail factors like age, income, and family status, which influence buying behaviors in the diving community. customer behavior DEMA News demographics diver
- Cakes for Sharks
A bake sale is being organized to raise funds for the Shark Trust, which aims to protect sharks and raise awareness about their mistreatment. The event encourages people to come and support the cause, as there is a strong love for animals, particularly sharks. Participation in activities like these can help make a difference for sharks around the world. bake sale protect sharks Shark Trust The Shark Trust
- To Pee or Not To Pee In Your Wetsuit?
Feeling the urge to pee while scuba diving is common and not something to be ashamed of. Many divers choose to pee in their wetsuits rather than suffer discomfort during a dive. It's important to stay hydrated before diving, as dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, which can smell worse and cause complications. While it may seem unpleasant, peeing in a wetsuit is generally considered acceptable, but it’s best to avoid doing this in a dry suit. diving For Scuba Divers hydration wetsuit
- Preserving Our Oceans: How PADI and Blancpain Are Turning Hope into Action
PADI and Blancpain are working together to protect the oceans with their initiative called Adopt the Blue. This program empowers divers and dive centers to adopt important underwater sites like coral nurseries to help conserve marine ecosystems. Their goal is to establish 10,000 Adopt the Blue sites by 2030 as part of a larger plan to conserve 30% of the ocean. By engaging divers in citizen science, they aim to collect data that supports the management of Marine Protected Areas, which are essential for the health of ocean habitats and species. Adopt the Blue Marine Conservation PADI
- 13th Annual Ocean Art Underwater Photo Contest Winners Announced
The 13th Annual Ocean Art Underwater Photography Competition has announced its winners for 2024, showcasing brilliant underwater images from participants in over 90 countries. The competition highlights the beauty and diversity of marine ecosystems and fosters conservation efforts. Eduardo Labat won Best in Show for his striking photograph of white-tip reef sharks. The event featured over $60,000 in prizes, which included dive trips to exotic locations and underwater photography equipment, celebrating the art of underwater photography while emphasizing the importance of ocean conservation. conservation marine ecosystems Scubaverse Underwater Photography
- Poole-based recompression chamber to close
The Diver Clinic, a recompression chamber in Poole, Dorset, will close permanently on 31 January 2025. Established in 1992, it provided essential emergency services for scuba divers in the central English Channel. As one of only eight high-rated Category 1 chambers in mainland Britain, it specialized in advanced life support for serious decompression cases. The closure follows a review by NHS England, which determined that operating the clinic was no longer viable due to various factors. Patients will be referred to other facilities after the closure. decompression DIVE Magazine recompression scuba divers
- The Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Activities in Curaçao
Curaçao is a fantastic destination for families interested in ocean adventures and scuba diving. The Curaçao Sea Aquarium offers amazing opportunities to interact with marine life, while guided kayak tours through Rif Mangrove Park allow families to explore vital ecosystems. Snorkeling at family-friendly beaches, like Playa Porto Mari and Cas Abao Beach, provides access to vibrant coral reefs. Additionally, discover introductory scuba diving courses that cater to beginners and multi-day trips that include marine conservation activities, ensuring a fun and educational experience in this Caribbean paradise. Dive Curaçao Marine Conservation scuba diving snorkeling
- Underwater Cities – Amazing Dive Sites [Video]
Underwater cities are incredible places for scuba diving. Recent discoveries, like a 10,000-year-old city in the Gulf of Cambay, offer unique dive experiences. Each underwater city varies in preservation and location, affecting what divers can see. A video features ten amazing underwater cities perfect for divers interested in archaeology. dive experiences For Scuba Divers scuba diving underwater cities
- Episode 195 Sports Financial Services – Specialists in arranging life insurance for active sports and hazardous occupations
Life insurance is crucial for scuba divers and people engaged in high-risk sports. Sports Financial Services specializes in tailored insurance options meant for active and hazardous occupations. They offer unique life cover, income protection, and critical illness coverage catered to the risks involved in these activities. Their expertise helps individuals protect their lifestyle while providing peace of mind. Getting a personalized insurance quote can be easily done by contacting them. high-risk sports life insurance podcast scuba diving The BiG Scuba Podcast
- New ‘Ultimate Dive Sites’ Book Set To Launch
A new book titled "Ultimate Dive Sites" by underwater photographer Todd Thimios is set to release soon. This book showcases some of the best dive locations globally, appealing to both professional and recreational divers. It features various destinations, from Antarctic waters with orcas to Raja Ampat, where manta rays glide. Thimios, a submersible pilot, shares his unique dive experiences along with over 50 breathtaking images of these dive sites. dive sites scuba Scuba Diving – DeeperBlue.com Underwater Photography
- Royal Navy to contact BSAC clubs for help recruiting divers
The Royal Navy plans to reach out to British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) branches to help recruit new divers. The effort is aimed at increasing dive participation and raising awareness of the sport. By collaborating with local clubs, the Royal Navy hopes to tap into the existing community of divers. This initiative reflects the growing interest in scuba diving and the importance of divers for naval operations. British Sub-Aqua Club - News & blog BSAC divers Royal Navy
- Poole hyperbaric chamber to close
The Poole hyperbaric chamber is set to close, which is concerning for scuba divers in the area. This facility is essential for treating decompression sickness, a risk for divers. Without it, divers might face longer travel times to receive necessary medical attention. This closure could affect divers' safety and their willingness to dive locally. British Sub-Aqua Club - News & blog decompression diving hyperbaric
- Selfie With A Beached White Shark [video]
A video captures a large 14-foot white shark struggling in shallow water near Baja California. The person filming, Dale Pearson, maintained a safe distance while recording, as the shark was believed to be hunting for stingrays. Despite its injuries from a propeller, experts suggest that the shark's condition is not life-threatening. The incident highlights the importance of safety when interacting with marine life, especially while diving or taking photos. For Scuba Divers marine life scuba diving shark
- Cross-Lighting: Making Your Subject a Star
Cross-lighting is an underwater photography technique that enhances textures and contrasts in your subject by placing your strobes across from each other, with the subject in-between. This method is great for capturing details in static subjects, like sponges and fish, as it helps eliminate distractions from the background. Long strobe arms are important for positioning the lights correctly, especially in macro photography where you want to show intricate details. Overall, using cross-lighting can dramatically improve your underwater images by allowing your subjects to stand out. cross-lighting DPG RSS strobe Underwater Photography
- Ten best places to dive in Indonesia
Indonesia is considered one of the best places in the world for scuba diving, featuring amazing spots across its many islands. Some of the top dive locations include Pulau Weh, known for its rich marine life, and Derawan/Sangalaki, which offers opportunities to dive with manta rays. Bunaken Marine Park and Lembeh in North Sulawesi are famous for vibrant reefs and unique critters, respectively. Raja Ampat stands out for its incredible biodiversity, while Komodo National Park offers diverse marine environments. The Nusa Islands are popular for sightings of large fish like the southern mola and manta rays. dive DIVE Magazine marine reef
- Unintended Consequences Of Lionfish Culling [Video]
Lionfish are a major problem in the Caribbean due to their rapid breeding and lack of natural predators. To address this, divers and fishermen have been culling lionfish, which is not harmful on its own. However, when culled lionfish are fed to other fish, it changes their behaviors and can put divers at risk. Fish like the mutton snapper may approach divers expecting food, making them vulnerable to spearfishing. Laws now mandate that all culled lionfish be removed from the ocean to protect marine life and diver safety. For Scuba Divers lionfish marine life scuba diving
- ScubaRadio 1-18-25 HOUR1
This episode features Greg The Divemaster discussing lionfish with a knowledgeable guest known for tackling this invasive species. They also connect with the Aqua Gypsy and The Scuba Cowboy to share exciting updates and experiences. It's a great way to learn more about lionfish and what divers are doing to manage their population. diving lionfish podcast scuba Scuba Radio
- ScubaRadio 1-18-25 HOUR2
This hour features discussions with DiveGod Neal Watson, Pete from ScubaBoard, and Jerry Beaty. They share insights about scuba diving and experiences in the diving community. Listeners can learn from these experts about tips and updates in the diving world. The conversation aims to engage and inform new divers about scuba diving adventures. Community DiveGod podcast scuba diving Scuba Radio
- Coming Together as a Community To Help Support Los Angeles Fire Relief Efforts
The PADI community is coming together to support the Los Angeles fire relief efforts. Many organizations are helping affected individuals, such as the American Red Cross and the California Fire Foundation. These groups provide shelter, aid for victims, and support for first responders. Donations, volunteering, and spreading the word can all make a difference for those impacted by the wildfires. It’s important to verify the organizations you choose to support. Community PADI Pros relief support
- Dive Resorts and Liveaboards For Scuba Divers
Dive resorts and liveaboards offer exciting experiences for scuba divers. You can choose from over 280 liveaboards and top-rated dive resorts around the world through PADI Travel. It's easy to find your perfect trip by searching for liveaboards by destination or departure date. Keep an eye out for special deals on these diving adventures that could save you money. Booking is simple, with no additional fees. Dive Resorts For Scuba Divers liveaboards scuba diving
- ADEX Voice of the Ocean 2025 Competition Launched
The ADEX Voice of the Ocean Photo+Video+Art Competition 2025 has been launched by Underwater360. This event is part of the Asia Dive Expo (ADEX) in Singapore, scheduled for April 4 to 6, 2025. It will focus on cephalopods and marine life behavior, featuring categories such as Animal Behavior and Cephalopods. Submissions are open until March 1, 2025, and the grand prize includes underwater housing worth up to $10,000. A live judging event will announce winners during the ADEX Ocean Festival. ADEX cephalopods marine life Scubaverse
- BSAC joins Welsh Sports Association
The British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) has joined the Welsh Sports Association. This membership aims to promote scuba diving and enhance the sport's visibility in Wales. Joining the association helps BSAC support divers and clubs in the region. It also opens up opportunities for collaboration in developing scuba diving programs and events. British Sub-Aqua Club British Sub-Aqua Club - News & blog scuba diving Wales
- Leopard Seals – Deadly Apex Predators Of The Arctic Circle To Avoid
Leopard seals are dangerous apex predators found in the Arctic Circle. They can weigh between 400 and 1300 pounds, and swim at speeds of up to 18 mph. Due to their aggressive nature, divers are advised to stay at least 100 feet away from them. While they generally do not attack humans, there have been rare incidents, including one where a researcher was attacked. Being aware of their behavior and keeping a safe distance is crucial for scuba divers in their habitat. apex predators For Scuba Divers leopard seals scuba diving
- Classic PADI Pros’ Site To Be Retired
The classic PADI Pros' Site will be retired in early 2025. All the content from this site has now moved to a revised version. Users should update their bookmarks, as links to the old site will no longer work. The new site features improved navigation with submenus under five main headers for easy access to information. If anyone needs help navigating the new site, they can contact their Regional Training Consultant. diving PADI PADI Pros site
- Rare January Slaughter: A Grim Start to 2025
On January 10, 2025, Faroese whalers killed 47 pilot whales, including pregnant females and calves, in a controversial winter hunt. This event highlights the brutality associated with these hunts and the disruption they cause to whale social structures. Pilot whales are known for their intelligence and strong family bonds, making these hunts both inhumane and ecologically harmful. Advocacy groups are urging the Faroese people to reconsider this tradition and its devastating effects on marine life. marine ecosystems Pilot Whales Sea Shepherd Conservation Society whaling
