How to Get Best Visibility From a Scuba Diving Mask & Stop Leaks

Scuba mask leaking. Or fogging up. These common problems with a scuba mask can all be prevented.
Even with a scuba diving mask fitted correctly, other problems can prevent a scuba diver from getting the best from their mask.
Preventing Scuba Diving Mask Fogging When Underwater
One of the big problems with a scuba diving mask is the fog that appears on the inside of the mask during a dive. It can be even more frustrating when the fog appears on one side only.
This fogging of the scuba diving mask is caused by the activity of the scuba diver heating the body which in turn warms the small air cavity in the mask. This air cavity is a very humid place, and with the cooler water on the other side, condensation forms on the lens of the mask.
Some scuba diving masks may have an anti-fog coating on the inside of the lens that is intended to overcome this problem. However, over time and use this coating may deteriorate.
There are two main ways to effectively address this problem of a scuba diving mask fogging.
Spit in the Scuba Diving Mask to Prevent Fogging
Just before putting on the scuba diving mask, dunk it in water, then put a small amount of spit in against the faceplate. Rub this around briefly, then rinse out the mask.
This forms a thin layer on the lens that will prevent the condensation forming.
Leave a Small Amount of Water in the Scuba Diving Mask
In this technique, a small amount of water is left in the mask just before putting it on. When the dreaded fog up occurs it is a simple technique to roll the water over the lens to wash away the condensation.
Care needs to be taken that only the correct amount of water is in the mask as too much might result in the water getting into the eyes, or up the nose.
Some experienced scuba divers like to have a small leak in the mask seal on the face to allow water to continually dribble into the mask for just this purpose. When the water gets too much, they simply expel the water from the mask using the basic scuba mask clearing technique.
Preventing a Leaking Scuba Diving Mask
If a scuba diving mask is correctly fitted and still leaks, the main cause will probably be either a faulty seal or hair or another foreign object breaking the integrity of the seal.
For the problem of a faulty seal, it may simply be time to get a new scuba diving mask.
For hair breaking the seal against the skin, there are a few techniques to try.
First off, simply get the hair out of the way when putting on the scuba diving mask. Sounds simple but can be difficult with extra long hair. Put the face in the water, then bring it out quickly and flick the hair over the back of the head. This should clear the face of hair while the scuba diving mask is put on.
Eyebrows and a moustache or beard are another cause of the seal letting in water. Once the scuba diving mask is on, use the fingers to gently tease back the hair from under the seal. For extreme cases, petroleum jelly can be used to form an extra seal between the hair and the mask skirt.

Scuba Diving Instructor Training

There are many reasons for people to dream of having a career as a scuba diving instructor. It is a line of work which offers flexibility, as instructors can find job placements in thousands of exotic locations around the world. It also provides the possibility of swimming with a vast array of awe inspiring marine life on a daily basis.
What Does Scuba Diving Instructor Training Include?
Before budding divers can begin their instructor training, they first need to attain an open water diving certification in order to become a qualified scuba diver. The training required for this license ensures that divers are qualified to take part in open water dives, without the supervision of an instructor. That being said most diving organizations do provide all inclusive courses, which means that previous diving experience is not required.
Once a diver has acquired their open water certification, they are then free to continue training as an instructor. Courses include practical and theoretical training, such as psychology based methods of in water teaching, in water problem solving techniques, medical training and procedures, and how to use of all the necessary equipment correctly.
Trainees will also be taught about the environment, diving physics, decompression, gas mixes, and nitrox. Some courses will also include education on the business aspects of scuba diving. Once the training is complete, the newly qualified instructor can then look for a placement immediately, to begin their career teaching other budding divers.
Courses can take several weeks, although many diving organizations offer a crash course, which means that training is condensed into a series of long training days. Costs vary, usually depending upon the location. The readers of SCUBA travel have voted for locations off the coast of Australia, Belize, Thailand, and Hawaii, as the best hot spots for scuba diving.
The most popular diving organizations, which provide scuba diving instruction and courses include PADI (the Professional Association of Dive Instructors), NAUI (the National Association of Underwater Instructors), SSI (Scuba Schools International), and BSAC (British Sub Aqua Club).
What Further Scuba Diving Courses are Available?
There are also further learning opportunities available, such as underwater photography and videography courses, and a variety of other further diving courses which can lead to a wider range of job opportunities. Graduates of instructor training programs can go on to gain a variety of occupations, such as:
•resort instructor
•marine institute instructor
•dive tour operator
•under water photographer
•marine mammal trainer
•cruise ship diver
•theme park dive team
•police diver trainer
•scientific dive team
•NASA astronaut trainer.
Both scuba diving instructor training courses and all of the further diving courses can be booked in advance over the internet, or through a booking agent. Many companies also offer packages which include meals and accommodation.

Should a Scuba Diver Dive With a Scuba Buddy When Underwater?

Like many matters in the water sport of scuba diving, there is always debate on the best way to do a certain thing. One of the on-going debates and discussions held in many after-dive get togethers is the concept of scuba diving solo. Or diving without a designated scuba buddy.
Like any of these types of discussion, there are always two sides of the argument; with each side having some legitimate reasons to support their case.
Safety Advantages of Scuba Diving With a Buddy
Safety is the number one reasons touted for diving with a buddy when underwater on scuba. Take the following list of safety reasons for having a buddy along on a scuba dive:
•loss of air supply through equipment failure,
•simply running out of air,
•getting tangled in old fishing line or stuck in a coral,
•problems with equipment like a buckle coming undone at depth,
•forgetting to turn the tank valve fully on (this happens!),
•getting a bump on the head when exploring a cave, or a leg cramp.
These are all things that could happen underwater where a buddy could come to the rescue. And with a buddy to assist, the above problems could be addressed quickly and easily with minimal interruption to the length and enjoyment of the dive.
Every Diver Should Look After Themselves
The above safety items where a scuba buddy would come in handy can all be countered by the group that wants to dive alone. The simple argument, is the solo scuba diver should be well aware of the possible risks and problems they may encounter underwater and take precautions to prevent those happening.
Take for example running out of air. A solo diver will be much more conscious of their air consumption and not get into a position where they will need to buddy-breathe.
Even the potential problem with scuba equipment failure can be addressed by ensuring their scuba equipment is well maintained and in good working order before ducking underwater.
Similarly with getting caught, tangled, cramping or hitting the head in a small cave. These are all preventable for a solo scuba diver to avoid.
Scuba Diving is More Enjoyable With a Scuba Buddy
Apart from safety, the other argument for scuba diving with a buddy is that enjoyment of the dive can be increased. especially with two sets of eyes looking out for interesting things.
And the discussions after the dive can all lead to increased enjoyment. It is possible to have incredibly unique diving experiences and be able to share those with the buddy many years after the dive.
Having a buddy along helps back up those stories that are held in dive clubs and in live-aboard scuba boats around the world. But who would believe a solo scuba diver who saw the elusive mermaid frolicking with a pod of dolphins without a credible scuba buddy to back up the story!
Scuba Diving Can be Enjoyable Without a Scuba Buddy
The other side of the argument that a buddy is needed to share in the underwater experience is the joy of diving alone. That is, not being tied to the problems and issues that comes from pairing with another human being.
While there are scuba diving experiences shared between buddy pairs there would also be a large number of complete disasters in buddy diving.
The main problem comes about if the buddy pairs aren’t compatible. Just some of the incompatibility problems are:
•one diver of the pair having high air consumption,
•one diver wanting to cover more of the sea floor than the other,
•an inexperienced and anxious scuba diver needing to be “nursed” through a dive,
•communication problems,
•one diver feeling the cold resulting in the dive being cut short.
What is Best, a Buddy Pair or Solo Scuba Diving?
It is difficult to clearly state what is the best way to dive: in a buddy pair or solo scuba diving. As with most things in scuba diving, it depends on the situation and the type of diving being undertaken.
For a solo scuba dive on a sunken wreck in decompression times and depths, it would make good sense to have a buddy along. While for a shallow dive at the local shore dive location to simply test out some new scuba equipment, it might be acceptable to scuba dive solo.
And maybe a dive holiday to an exotic location like Australia’s Great Barrier Reef might be the perfect time to have a buddy along. Not just for enjoying the underwater experience, but to share memories together on the surface and in the apres-dive activities.
As in all activities undertaken when beneath the waves on scuba gear, safety should always be the number one priority. Having a buddy along can be just one more element in making a scuba dive safer.

Scuba Techniques for Scuba Diving in the Waves of a Surf Beach

Scuba diving entry through the surf can open up some great scuba diving sites. The site might be a reef with interesting corals and fish life. Or maybe a rocky outcrop popular with fishermen with a stack of lost sinkers just waiting for a enterprising scuba diver to retrieve for making into scuba dive weights.
Or the tempting scuba dive site might be an old wreck that is best reached by a short swim from the beach.
Check the Conditions Before the Scuba Surf Entry
Before getting into the water, the first part of the scuba dive plan is to check the conditions. The surf should be small; tackling 2-metre dumpers in full scuba kit is sheer stupidity.
The sea floor off the beach should be carefully scrutinised. A sand bar just off the shore could cause a problem, with gutters and currents flowing in unexpected directions.
The location of any “rips” should be checked. A rip in the surf is where the water that has come to the shore in a wave, bends around, and flows back out to sea. They are characterised by the incoming waves being reduced by the large amounts of water flowing against them.
A rip can be used to get out into deeper water, but can be a challenge to swim against when coming back to shore after the scuba dive.
If caught in a rip, a diver should swim across the rip to get out of it. Another option is to let the rip take the diver out to sea and select another exit point.
Take a Compass Bearing on the Scuba Site Before Entering the Water
A compass bearing on the reef, or wreck, should be taken before entering the water.
Sometimes it may be possible to see the wreck or reef from the shore, especially if at a higher vantage point. The dive site will usually appear darker than the surrounding water.
The other option for locating the scuba dive site is local knowledge. But this should be obtained before heading out. It is no good simply swimming into the surf in a vague hope that the dive site will simply appear.
Scuba Diving Surf Entry Procedure
The following are some basic procedures to follow when entering the surf in scuba gear.
Just above the water line, put on all scuba gear on, even the fins and mask.
Pay close attention to securing items that may be impacted by the action of the surf. There should be nothing in the buoyancy compensator pockets that may get pulled out. Check the gauges are secured. Torches for a night dive floating on a lanyard around the wrist could cause trouble in the surf entry.
Carry out all necessary scuba buddy checks.
Walk backwards into the surf, holding onto the scuba buddy if needed.
Take the breaking waves on your back. Put the regulator into your mouth and hold on with the teeth. It may be useful to hold the mask and regulator with one hand, and the tank with the other to prevent waves smashing the scuba tank into the back of the head.
When the water is deep enough, duck down below the waves and start finning strongly out to sea.
The thing to remember is that it is much easier to swim below the waves than battle them on top.
Using the Scuba Compass to Navigate to the Scuba Dive Site
Usually the seafloor out from a surf beach will be a sandy desert. There might be a few little fish darting around, but mostly it will be just a flat expanse of sand with no reference points. Therefore having the compass, and knowing how to use it, is vital when scuba diving in the surf.
When arriving at the scuba site, place a marker as a reference from which to commence the return trip to the shore.
Exiting the Surf After a Surf Scuba Dive
Once back near the breaking waves; the exit is generally a reverse of the entry:
•Stay below the waves until the water is shallow enough to stand up comfortably.
•Keep breathing off the tank air.
•Leave the fins on, walk backwards taking the waves in the front of the body.
•Walk right out of the surf before taking off any scuba equipment.
Scuba diving under the waves is a unique experience as the waves roll over the top. The action of the waves above can be seen and felt by the diver just below the waves.

What Makes a Good Scuba Diving Buddy Pair Underwater?

Except for those divers keen to scuba dive solo, most scuba dives are undertaken with a buddy. The following are some considerations a scuba diver should take into account when scuba diving with a buddy.
Compatible Scuba Buddy Team
The buddy pair should want to do the same activity underwater. Some scuba divers like to remain within a small area underwater, while others prefer to cover as wide an area as possible.
Safety in Scuba Buddy Diving
Each scuba diver in a buddy pair should have the same attitude towards safety. Some divers are prepared to take greater risks underwater; while others may hold back and be a bit more wary. For example, pushing limits (time and depth) to the maximum. Or, one diving wanting to go into a cave while the other doesn’t. Even one diver not having an alternate air supply, can make an incompatible buddy pair.
Decision Making in a Scuba Buddy Pair
Generally, the buddy pair should know how decisions are going to be made underwater. If the pair is a “leader/follower” relationship, then it will be acknowledged that the leader (maybe a divemaster) will make the decisions on behalf of both divers. Decisions can also be made by both divers in agreement. The problem arises when there is no clear way of making decisions which can lead to the possibility of having an argument underwater: not something that should happen when scuba diving!
Scuba Buddy Pair Must Have Good Communication
Good communication between the scuba divers is vital. This applies both on the surface while gearing up and planning the dive, as well as to the time spent underwater. Each diver should know how to communicate underwater; even if just the basics.
Reducing Stress in a Scuba Buddy Pair
Stress should be reduced by diving with a buddy; not increased. A good buddy will provide confidence underwater and assist in making the dive safe and enjoyable for both divers. If a buddy pairing makes one diver feel less safe and secure, then another arrangement should be organised as reducing anxiety underwater is one of the keys for safe scuba diving.
Scuba Buddies Know How to Undertake the Scuba Dive
Keeping nearby underwater (but not too close) is vital for a properly conducted scuba dive. A dive buddy pair should swim close enough to help if one gets into trouble or needs assistance. But not close enough they are invading each other’s space.
A good buddy pair will have an understanding of how they are going to dive. One diver might try to always be on the left of the other; or one might lag behind by a body length. So long as each diver knows where the other is; the dive can be safe and enjoyable.
Monitor Scuba Buddy’s Air Consumption
The buddy pair should monitor each other’s air consumption underwater. This is needed so fine tuning to the dive plan can be made during the dive. The dive may need to be cut short; or even be extended, after taking into account other variables, for example depth, currents, exit points.
Scuba Buddy Dive Checks
Buddy checks before entering the water are a great way to learn about a scuba diver’s buddy; especially if not having dived with the person before. A quick chat while checking air supplies, buckles, gauges and the like should help uncover any underlying problems a diver may have such as scuba ability, anxiety levels, competence and standard of equipment. As above, a lot can be learnt from a scuba diver’s equipment and how well it is maintained and used.
A Dive Plan is Vital for Scuba Buddy Diving
A scuba dive plan is a vital element in scuba diving. And it is equally important that both divers in the buddy pair are well aware of the plan; and be prepared to dive the plan.
If both members of a scuba diving buddy pair follow some basic standards and principles then the scuba dive for each will be both safe and enjoyable.

Do Scuba Divers Need to Carry a Scuba Dive Knife When Underwater?

Carrying a scuba dive knife looks impressive, but is a knife a necessary item of scuba equipment on all scuba dives? A knife can provide a sense of physical security, but in most scuba dives it is probably an irrelevant item of scuba equipment.
For example, it would be difficult to justify carrying a scuba dive knife on a simple dive at one of the many coral reef dives on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
Fishing Line and Carrying a Scuba Dive Knife
A scuba dive knife could be handy when diving on a site covered with old fishing line and the scuba dive plan is to recover some of the lost sinkers for making into scuba dive weights. Prising the sinkers and fishing line out of the nooks and crannies of the underwater seascape with a scuba dive knife may be a good justification for carrying the knife.
From a safety point of view, a knife would be very useful, maybe even a life saver, to have when fiddling around with fishing line underwater. A scuba diver can quickly get tangled and caught up in the old fishing line which can lead to all sorts of problems. A quick flick with the scuba dive knife can cut away any problems.
Wreck Diving and Carrying a Scuba Dive Knife
A scuba dive knife might also be a useful item to carry when diving on a wreck. It might be needed to prise away a wayward piece of wreckage or debris that might move while the diver is penetrating the wreck.
There could also be the problem wayward fishing line, as mentioned above. Or there may be old ropes and other bits and pieces to be cut away.
Carry a Scuba Knife When Exploring New Scuba Dive Sites
When exploring new scuba diving sites, a knife would be a useful item of scuba equipment. At a new site, without benefit of personal knowledge (or local knowledge from the local dive club or shop) a diver might come across some unknown problems that may be best resolved with a scuba dive knife.
Reasons to Carry a Scuba Dive Knife
Some other reasons for a scuba diver to carry a knife could be:
•Diving in heavy seaweed, such as kelp
•Search and recovery type dives where ropes and the possibility of getting tangled may be present
•Drift dives where there could be the possibility of getting tangled in the rope dragging the scuba dive flag
•Equipment failure may lead to problems underwater where a knife may need to be used to cut-away equipment. Maybe the weightbelt buckle can’t be opened due to damage; or a similar problem.
•It could be useful for divemasters or scuba instructors to carry a knife in case students may need some assistance with equipment.
A Scuba Dive Knife and the Marine Environment
One of the reasons for many scuba divers to carry a knife is to pillage the ocean. Carving off oysters, coaxing crayfish out of a crevice or opening anemones to feed the fish are all uses for a knife.
Using a knife for this type of activity should be discouraged. Interaction in this manner by scuba divers with the marine environment is not good. It not only kills off the life, but also decimates the environment for future divers.
The image of a rugged scuba diver battling a ferocious, teeth filled shark is something that should be left to the realms of fiction. Not only would it be near impossible for a scuba diver to kill a shark with a scuba dive knife, it would be extremely dangerous with a wounded shark flapping around.
Communicating With a Scuba Dive Knife
It may sound a bit strange to communicate underwater with a scuba dive knife, but it is possible. The knife can be used to gain a dive buddy’s attention. Banging a knife on a steel or aluminium tank is one of the best ways to get the attention of another diver.
A simple message previously developed with the scuba dive buddy could be used. It would even be possible to tap out Morse code on the tank!
There are specific reasons for a scuba diver to carry a knife. However, a knife should really only be carried if warranted by the expected diving conditions.

A Scuba Diver's Physical Attributes That Impact on Risk of Bends

Scuba divers get the bends when nitrogen absorbed into body’s tissues during a scuba dive bubbles out into the blood during the ascent.
To reduce the risk of getting the bends (after a decompression scuba dive within decompression times and depths), a scuba diver must try to reduce this bubbling of nitrogen coming out of the tissues on the ascent.
A diver’s physical make-up can have an impact on a scuba diver getting the bends. The following are some aspects of a scuba diver’s physical condition that should be considered for divers undertaking deep dives in decompression times and limits.
For scuba divers in these risk categories, extra vigilance needs to be taken in planning a deep scuba dive involving decompression depths and times.
Physical Condition Can Impact a Scuba Diver Getting the Bends
Scuba diving is a strenuous activity that requires the body to be in good working condition. This requirement for good physical fitness is even more important when doing scuba dives into decompression depths and times.
A scuba diver who is unfit will generally have poor circulation, which is one of the main risk factors leading to the bends.
Age Has an Impact in Getting the Bends
The older a person gets, the less efficient their circulatory system becomes. Therefore, a scuba diver with a number of years under their dive belt may be more susceptible to the bends than a younger diver.
The older diver needs to be even more aware of the all factors in preventing the bends.
Gender Can Have an Impact on the Bends
It is believed that women generally have more body fat of the type that absorbs nitrogen easier than men, making women a bit more susceptible to the bends.
Overweight Scuba Divers Can be at Higher Risk of the Bends
Overweight scuba divers will have large amounts of fat where the nitrogen is absorbed during the dive. With higher fat content, the nitrogen can’t be expelled fast enough to lessen the risk of the bends.
Also, overweight scuba divers may generally have poor circulation which can be one of the risk factors leading to the bends; as discussed above.
Avoid Dehydration to Avoid the Bends
Dehydration, where the cells in the body don’t have adequate amount of fluid, means less places for the nitrogen to be absorbed. This leads to a concentration of nitrogen in certain areas that will result in nitrogen being released quicker and possibly in larger bubbles.
The other problem with dehydration is that the body will not be functioning at its best. As above, a scuba dive within decompression depths and times requires the body to be operating at its optimum.
Sickness and Fatigue Can Have an Impact on the Bends
Being generally unwell, sick or fatigued can result in reduced circulation and the body not functioning at this optimum.
The bends is a major risk for scuba divers undertaking dives into decompression depths and times. Treating the bends is possible, even by taking the scuba diver with the bends back underwater as a last resort treatment.
However, treatment is not an exact science, so prevention is preferable than undergoing treatment.
For those in a risk category, a few more minutes added on a decompression stop, or cutting short the time at the maximum depth may be a useful strategy.

Actions a Scuba Diver Can Do to Reduce the Risk and Prevent Bends

The bends occurs in a scuba diver when nitrogen absorbed into the tissues in the body during the dive bubbles out into the blood stream during the ascent.
Increasing the rate of circulation and reducing the speed in which nitrogen bubbles out of the body's tissues are what a diver needs to avoid.
Also, speeding blood flow through the body means the blood can carry more bubbles faster around the body and give them more chance to join together.
The following are some specific things that a scuba diver should look out for to reduce the risk of getting the bends while scuba diving.
Don’t Have Hot Showers Immediately After a Decompression Scuba Dive
A hot shower following a scuba dive is usually welcome and makes the diver feel good, but after a dive in decompression depths and times, a hot shower can be detrimental. The hot water opens the capillaries in the outer skin allowing more blood to flow.
Overheating can also cause the nitrogen in the tissues to be released faster.
Avoid Alcohol After a Decompression Scuba Dive
A celebratory alcoholic drink is another one of those things that is great to do after a dive; especially a stressful decompression dive. However, alcohol should be avoided for a number of hours after the ascent.
Alcohol has the impact of enlarging the blood capillaries thereby increasing circulation. Alcohol after a dive will also increase the rate at which the nitrogen bubbles out of the tissues.
Alcohol in the body will also increase blood circulation which must be avoided as much as possible to prevent getting the bends.
Alcohol before a dive should also be avoided. In general diving, alcohol and scuba diving doesn’t mix. But for scuba dives into decompression times, the risks of diving with alcohol in the system are magnified. A scuba diver’s mental faculties could be impaired, possibly leading to miscalculation of times and depths – important considerations in avoiding the bends.
Physical Activity After and During a Decompression Scuba Dive
Physical activity can increase the blood flow through the circulatory system, which in turn increases the likelihood of getting nitrogen bubbles caught in the blood vessels. The scuba dive plan should be structured to reduce the activity underwater. That is, a scuba dive in decompression depths and times should be a slow, leisurely dive, rather than a frantic dash underwater.
Also, the dive plan should ensure there is not a long swim to the beach, dive boat or shore dive exit point after the ascent.
Then once back on dry land, or the scuba dive boat, following a decompression dive, a scuba diver should sit quietly for the next few hours. A scuba diver should not immediately take on unnecessary strenuous activities such as swimming, snorkelling or running/walking.
Of course this needs to be tempered with activities that may be underway such as packing up dive gear or a divemaster preparing other divers.
Flying After Diving Can Increase the Risk of Getting the Bends
Flying after scuba diving can greatly increase the risk of getting the bends. This is due to the decreased pressure when at altitude in a plane allowing more nitrogen to bubble out of the tissues.
Even pressurised planes, such as domestic jets, must be avoided as they are pressurised at a lower pressure than ground level.
Cold Water Can Increase the Risk of Getting the Bends
Cold water can impair circulation, thereby slowing gas elimination. The cold causes constriction of blood vessels to the skin which can cause bubbles to be trapped.
Therefore a scuba diver undertaking a dive in decompression times and depths should put on as much insulation (wetsuit or drysuit) as possible. Not only to be comfortable on the dive, but also to assist in reducing susceptibility to the bends.
With all the above, to reduce the risk of getting the bends, a scuba diver should focus on slowing blood circulation both during and after a scuba dive within decompression depths and times.
The bends can be treated by a controlled process of re-compression followed by decompression. As a last resort, the bends can even be treated by taking the scuba diver with the bends back underwater. However, preventing the bends is the best approach.

A Checklist for Safe Scuba Diving

Problems in scuba diving can escalate quickly. One small issue can turn into a couple of slightly bigger issues and those can turn into disaster. Learn to pay attention to the small things ahead of time so you can deal with them and minimize the chance of a major problem. One day when you have hundreds of safe and wonderful dives in your logbook, you'll be glad you did.
How Do You Feel?
A day of diving can easily be ruined by illness. It only takes a little congestion to prevent equalization, causing the most common diving injury, ear barotrauma. If you are tired, hung-over, or dehydrated, you're more susceptible to decompression sickness and less ready to deal with unexpected situations underwater. Even if you're on holiday and you've been looking forward to the trip, give yourself a break and wait for the next day. As great as diving can be, it's not worth health complications that are easily prevented.
Do You Have All Your Equipment and is It Working Correctly?
Whether you're leaving your house or a hotel room, take a few minutes to check your dive bag before you leave. Verify that you have all the things you need for your dive. It's easy to walk out the door without something small but essential like your dive watch or dive computer. Once you arrive at your dive site or you're on the boat setting up, check the function of your equipment as you put it together. Don't ignore potential problems. It's a good idea to carry a small kit with spare parts and basic tools so you can make simple repairs on the spot. If you're diving with a commercial operator, they probably have parts and tools with them also. If you have an equipment issue and you can't fix it or rent or borrow a replacement, know when to cancel the dive.
Diver training organizations teach buddy checks. Once you're ready to go in the water, take a couple minutes to go over equipment with your buddy. Each one makes sure the other has all the necessary gear in working order before the dive begins.
How Will You Communicate and Where are You Going?
If you're diving with a buddy only, agree on hand signals and a dive plan before you hit the water. If you're diving with a dive guide, listen to the briefing before the dive. It's inevitable that the person who is not paying attention during the briefing is the one who jumps in the water and swims in the wrong direction. A professional divemaster or instructor leading a group will review hand signals and dive procedures before every dive.
Does Someone Know Where You Are?
If you are diving on your own with friends, have you told someone where you are and when you'll be back? If you're diving with a commercial operator, do they have a method for accounting for all the divers in the group? Were you asked to take a tag with you and return it when you return to the boat? Did they do a roll call before the boat left the dock? The movie Open Water was an exaggerated Hollywood story, but it's up to you to be comfortable that the dive operation knows where you are so nothing like that ever happens.
Once you're in the water, do you have a way of signaling someone if you have a problem? Are you carrying a whistle, mirror, or safety tube so you can get someone's attention?
Does Your Dive Match Your Training and Experience?
Be smart. Don't try a dive that's way beyond your level. Gradually increase your skill level. Try a dive with a more experienced diver that's slightly more advanced than what you're used to. Sign up for a class to experience new types of dives. If it's been a while since your last dive, take a refresher class or dive with a guide the first dive or two.
If something unexpected happens, remember to stop, breathe, think, and then act. If you are still breathing, you have time to handle the situation. All the preparation you've gone through makes it less likely there will be a problem.
This may seem like a long list, but once you make it a part of every dive it will become routine. Committing to careful preparation results in safe and fun scuba diving. And isn't fun what diving is supposed to be all about?

Florida Keys Diving Vacation Paradise

The Florida Keys has been likened to the Bahamas and shares many similarities with the Bahamas. In fact, the Keys have been called the Conch Republic and Florida's Bahamas. With similar weather and beautiful waters, it's a great place to relax in a tropical paradise unlike any other place in the U.S . Another similarity is the quality of the SCUBA diving experience. The Florida Keys is a 120-mile archipelago stretching between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic. The waters off the islands offers a unique diving experience for both snorkelers and the SCUBA enthusiast.
The Northern, the Middle to the Lower Keys on to Key West
There are great diving locations all the way from the Upper Keys (Key Largo and Islamorada), through the Middle Keys and of course, the lower keys terminating at Key West which points the way to the Dry Tortugas (arguably the last Key, located about 70 miles west of Key West). The diving is excellent almost anywhere in the Florida Keys. The so-called bay side of the contiguous Keys provides numerous types of fishing, however the diving is mediocre lacking the crystal clarity of the waters off the south side of the Keys. Reef diving in general, is usually in relatively shallow waters; typically not more than 40 to 50 feet in depth.
The diving off the northern Keys and in fact, all of the Keys is quite interesting because of the beautiful, expanse of coral reefs stretching for over 100 miles into the Gulf of Mexico. The Northern Keys is home to numerous artificial wrecks as well real wrecks. In fact, Islamorada also is the location of a real Spanish galleon in less than 40 feet of water. There are numerous fish that abound in and around the reef line. A diver with basic snorkeling equipment can see interesting marine life while splashing along on the surface. However, to see marine life in a very close and personal way, requires the use of SCUBA gear.
The Middle Keys offers Sombrero Reef, Delta Shoal, Middle Reef Coffin Patch, Adelaide Baker (The Dutch Key Wreck c. 1889), Critter Ridge, The Gap and Shrimp Boat Reef. These are all interesting dive sites. Most are in waters from 25 to 50 feet in depth which offers unique sea life and interesting reef exploration. The Lower Keys dive locations would include Looe Key, Content Keys and South Beach Patches, Key West harbor, as well as many other dive locations. For the adventurous, there is some incredible sea life off of the Dry Tortugas, but as mentioned above, this is a long boat ride or short sea plane ride from Key West.
Dive Boats, Dive Operations and Accommodations
The Keys offers numerous dive operations from large dive boats with 20 or more divers to more personal "six pack" dive operations for five or six divers. All have trained, licensed and experienced crews to assist. Most include rentals for snorkel gear to full SCUBA outfits. For the more experienced, there are power boats that may be rented permitting ultimate dive freedom for adventuresome divers.
There are of course, almost any type of accommodation for the diver. These include hotels and motels specializing in dive packages. Additionally, there are rental homes and condominiums located throughout the keys with enough space to handle large groups of families or friends interested in dive vacations. In fact, there are even beautiful state campgrounds in the Northern Keys (John Pennecamp Coral Reef State Park) and Bahia Honda State Park in the lower Middle Keys. Bahia Honda is located directly on a sandy beach (a rarity in the Florid Keys).
Of course, when in the Florida Keys, despite the great diving, a vacationer can not dive all the time. There are other diversions and great dining opportunities. That's when divers over a cold beer, talk about the incredible reefs, the fish and the beauty of the waters and the weather of the Florida Keys

Bonaire and Belize - Great Caribbean Diving Destinations

Caribbean diving offers warm water, great visibility and some of the best places to scuba dive in the world. Caribbean vacation spots that cater to divers are friendly and can offer some cheap diving options.
Bonaire
Bonaire is part of the Netherlands Antilles A, B, C islands. The ABC stands for Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. These three islands lie less than 100 miles off the coast of Venezuela.
The Bonaire National Marine Park was established in 1979 and circles almost the entire island. The preservation and care for Bonaire's reef system is why it is considered one of the best scuba and snorkeling destinations. The preserve is home to a vast array of sea creatures. The alert diver can find sea horses, octopus, giant blue parrot fish, groupers, trumpet fish, giant angel fish and too many others to list here.
Bonaire is a desert island which means that divers can expect a rain-free diving vacation year round. Visibility is best between February and April, but visibility never drops below about 50 feet.
Most of the hotels have PADI dive facilities and boats that will take divers to any of the more than 60 dive sites around Bonaire and its baby brother Klein Bonaire. For divers who prefer shore diving, 50 of the dive sites are shore accessible.
Some of the best sites include:
•Karpata – Some of the best visibility in the Caribbean, light current and giant anchors in coral make this a great dive site for photographers.
•1,000 Steps is an excellent shore or boat dive for beginners. Hawksbill turtles can often be seen here and on rare occasions a whale shark.
Belize and the Ambergris Kaye
Belize offers an abundance of dive options. The Ambergris Kaye can be reached by a short boat ride from shore. Ambergris Kaye offers more than 25 miles of dive sites. Enormous tube sponges, deep canyons and tons of wildlife make this a spectacular Caribbean diving location.
Water temperatures around Belize range from the upper 70s in January and February up to the middle 80s in summer. Visibility is not as great as Bonaire but 50 to 60 feet is common.
There are many good resorts on the mainland that offer dive packages. Some resorts also offer packages that include other eco-tourism adventures in the surrounding rain forests.
For a relaxing vacation that truly is a getaway, there is the Manta Resort. The Manta Resort is a tiny island about 25 miles off the coast of Belize. A flexible and knowledgeable dive crew takes the lucky few visitors to many of the sites that are brief boat rides away.
Divers looking for great Caribbean diving locations need look no further than Bonaire and Belize. Excellent visibility, friendly people and an amazing abundance of sea life make these two of the best places to scuba dive or snorkel.

Scuba Diving for Beginners: A Discover Scuba Course

If the thought of getting up close and personal with marine life or exploring ship wrecks that are centuries old whets your appetite, then a scuba diving course could be for you. But the best way to find out is a type of try before you buy.
Getting Involved in a Discover Scuba Lesson
There are two main routes into trying scuba diving for the first time. The first is to contact your local PADI centre, like Stoney Cove Dive School in Leicestershire, England, and book a full or half-day discover scuba session.
The full day costs £90 and is for those wanting the full experience as it incorporates both the introduction in the swimming pool and a controlled dive in the lake at Stoney Cove.
The half-day lasts between two and three hours, costs £25 and is based around the introduction in the pool, details of which will follow.
The second is as a gift via a Red Letter Day or Virgin Experience package, which would be the equivalent of the half-day scuba diving lesson in the pool.
Whichever route you choose, be sure that those teaching you are qualified PADI instructors and that in the UK, you are over 10 years old.
Health and Fitness Requirements
Once you have booked your scuba diving lesson, you will be sent a medical questionnaire to complete and take with you on the day. Answer honestly, as a yes on the form may not mean you can’t take part; it just means confirmation from your doctor is needed too.
You must also be able to swim 200 meters and tread water or float for 10 minutes.
Discover Scuba Session: Before You Get in the Pool
Before you even dip a toe in the swimming pool, there’s a health and safety chat along with the basic information of how pressure will affect your body on descent, what to do once you’re in the water and what the equipment does.
Also you must remember the hand signals you are shown so you can reply to questions and highlight difficulties that may arise.
Then it’s time to get changed. Generally the cost will include kit hire so wetsuits will be provided, although you’re welcome to take your own if you have one or just wear a spare T-shirt to put layer between you and buoyancy aid.
Discover Scuba Session: In the Pool
Now it’s time to get kitted up (it's lighter putting it on in the pool) and put into practise everything you’ve just been shown.
First things first: you begin breathing through the respirator through your mouth with your face under water. Try to keep your breathing steady, bite down on the guard to keep the respirator in place as it’s heavier than you may think.
The other thing to expect is the noise from the bubbles when you breathe out, it seems quite loud as the bubbles rush straight past your ear on their way to the surface.
You'll then practise the exercises while on your knees at a depth of one meter. You'll learn how to clear your mask if it fills with water (which it will if you breathe through your nose) and how to find and replace the respirator if it should come out for any reason.
The final tasks are how to descend – clear your ears every meter on the way down by pinching your nose and blowing hard – and how to swim in fins. You do so by keeping your knees slightly bent and flicking your feet so the fins do the work of propelling you though water.
If Scuba is for You, What’s Next
If swimming around in circles at a depth of four meters in a swimming pool has sparked your imagination of what it could be like surrounded by fish, then the next step is to get an open water qualification.
This comes in three steps: academic, pool sessions and four open water dives and when qualified will let you dive to 18 meters. This typically takes anywhere from four days to six weeks depending on your confidence level and how often you can meet your tutor.
There are nearly 6,000 PADI centres in over 180 countries, so there are plenty of options to learn at home or abroad, and prices will vary.

The Impact of the Speed of Sound in Water for Scuba Divers

Anyone who has scuba dived, or even ducked underwater when snorkelling, knows that the underwater world is not silent.
For a scuba divers there is the crackling of exhaust bubbles, the air sucking through the regulator, the ringing and popping in the ears from changing pressures and the clicking of the sealife.
Maybe an anchor chain banging on the seafloor, coral munching fish, clicking of crustaceous, someone’s equipment banging on their tank or a boat motor somewhere overhead. The underwater world is a noisy place. But what does this mean for a scuba diver?
Why Does Sound Travel Faster in Water Than Air ?
Sound travels in waves through a medium. Those waves strike the ear drum which is then, through a series of small bones, converted into the sounds that are understood in the human brain.
The speed of sound through a medium is determined by the compressibility, and the density of that medium.
Density: the amount of material that takes up a specific volume
Compressibility: for a given pressure, how much of the medium can be compressed.
If the medium tends towards being dense, and compressible, then the sound will travel slower through that medium.
Compare the Speed of Sound Through Air and Water
When comparing the medium of air and water, these two factors of density and compressibility have to be considered.
Air: air is not very dense. That is, a large amount can be put in a specific volume; however it is very compressible. Just think of the air being compressed into a scuba tank to demonstrate the low density and high compressibility of air.
Water: water on the other hand is very dense, much more so than air. But it is not very compressible.
As water is around 800 times more dense than air, it could be expected that sound would travel faster through air than water. However, it is the fact that water can’t be compressed that makes water a much better conductor of sound than air.
As a result of all this, sound travels about four times faster through water than through air.
Scuba Diving and the Speed of Sound in Water
One of the phenomenon of being underwater on scuba gear is that it is difficult to clearly detect where a sound is coming from.
The sound of a boat motor underwater will nearly always make novice scuba students to look directly to the surface above them, searching for the passing boat. (Even though this shouldn’t happen, as the scuba dive warning flag should force all boats away from the dive site.) But the boat may be some distance away from the scuba divers, but it can sound like it is close and even passing overhead.
This lack of direction comes from the fact that sound is travelling faster through the water than air.
When in the air, the sounds reaches the ears at different times, usually reaching one ear very slightly ahead of the other ear. It is this slight delay that the brain uses to calculate the direction where the sound is coming from.
However, underwater that difference is substantially reduced. The delay between each ear hearing the sound is only one fourth of that in air, so the brain is not able to do the calculation of where the sound is emanating.
Communicating Underwater for Scuba Divers
Fortunately, this difference in the speed of sound underwater does not present a major problem for scuba divers communicating underwater. The ability of sound travelling through the water can be an advantage in some situations; such as banging a scuba dive knife on a tank to catch the attention of a scuba dive buddy. Or a diver hearing the warning beeps of their dive computer or watch.
Other ways of scuba divers communicating underwater are through sign language or the use of written words on a slate.
The speed of sound in water does not have a great impact for scuba diving. However, being aware of the physics of sound in water is useful knowledge for a scuba diver.

Scuba Diving the Famous "Blue Wall" Zanzibar, East Africa

The name "Zanzibar" has become virtually synonymous with everything exotic. Birthplace of rock group Queen's ex-frontman Freddie Mercury, mention Zanzibar in conversation and instantly images of pristine white sandy beaches, romantic sunset strolls and honeymoon bliss are conjured up. Yet for most people, once the wistful gleam in the eye passes away, there follows the usual question, "Where exactly is Zanzibar?"
Brief History of Zanzibar
The answer to "exactly" where is 6°8′0″S,39°19′0″E; an answer somewhat easier to visualise is 26 miles off the coast of Tanzania, East Africa.
Arab traders were the first to realise the commercial potential of Zanzibar in the 8th century AD, but human habitation can be traced back at least 20,000 years. The name "Zanzibar", which funnily enough when considering the now-famous pristine white sandy beaches, means "black coast". It was given to the island by an infamous Persian trader in the 18th century. The name, more in reference to the colour of the locals' skin, reflects a darker period in the history of Zanzibar, when for two centuries under its Omani rulers, the island was a major cog in the wheel of the lucrative slave trade of Arab traders.
These same traders founded plantations, taking advantage of the favourable climatic conditions to grow and trade spices. By the middle of the 19th century, Zanzibar had become the world's leading producer of cloves. Cinnamon, ginger, cumin and pepper followed and soon the romantic name 'Spice Islands' was born. Today Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous part of Tanzania and its Commission for Tourism has laid out a vision for the island to become "one of the top tourism destinations of the Indian Ocean."
Scuba Diving in Zanzibar
The amazing array of scuba diving in Zanzibar will no doubt play a part if this ambitious goal is to be achieved. With visibility generally between 20-40 metres and average water temperatures of 27 degrees Celsius, Zanzibar diving is reputedly right up there with the very best in the world. Dives here serve up a mixture of the vast shoals of fish one might see off the coast of iconic dive sites in Thailand and the corals of the Egyptian Red Sea, but with its own unique Zanzibarian twist.
Anyone headed to Zanzibar specifically to dive will already be aware of just how much marine life the island's dive sites have to offer. Whole days can be spent exploring pristine reefs teeming with tropical fish, and deeper sites crawling with blue spotted rays, huge schools of barracuda and jacks. Zanzibar dive sites are also blessed with the occasional guest appearance from a giant moray or even dolphins.
What makes this an even more special place for scuba diving, is the absolute lack of fellow divers in the area – it is rare to see a single other diving group or even a boat on most of the sites. Zanzibar lays no claims to the title of 'unspoilt tropical island paradise'; indeed the northern coast of Nungwi has long been an established favourite with the jet-set, but on the more rough-and-ready east coast of Zanibar, it's a different story.
Here lies magical Bwejuu Beach (voted amongst the top 30 island beaches, by Conde Nast Traveller in its article "The Ultimate Worldwide Island Beach Finder" in 2007) with 12 miles of white sand and the launching point for dives to one of the most remarkable dive sites in Zanzibar.
The Famous Blue Wall Dive Site, Zanzibar; Not for the Faint Hearted
Perhaps the best Zanzibar diving experience awaits those who get invited to dive "The Blue Wall". Rising Sun Dive Centre, located on Bwejuu Beach offers this as one of its signature dives, but only if you meet the strict criteria:
•Proficient divers only
•This cannot be the first dive with Rising Sun Dive Centre
•Strong swimmer – the site is notorious for underwater currents
•Comfortable with deep dives – the site bottoms out at around 70 metres
•Good air consumption is vital.
Tick all the boxes and a rare underwater experience awaits.
An Underwater Ride to Rival Any Zanzibar Dive
After a short boat ride out to the dive site, divers descend directly to the reef at 42 m. The visibility is almost always stunning – it’s possible to see the wall from the surface and the descent is magical, dropping past luminescent jellyfish and schools of curious snapper who often come to check out divers. As it levels out, the nitrogen narcosis kicks in and it’s best to just turn into the current and be swept along the wall. Just kick back and enjoy the ride.
And what a ride it is; a coral wall covered in the healthiest corals, small (and large) nudibranchs nestled between them for protection, fish everywhere. There are often sightings of the resident family of clown triggerfish or the giant Napoleon wrasse that like to welcome uncommon divers. Friendly and curious, they often ride along with groups for the entire dive, coming closer to eye off the divers, then circling back and riding the currents to conserve energy.
Giants of the Deep
At certain points, it’s possible to drop to 50 m to eye off-white spotted groupers hiding in caves, and then ascend slightly to ride along the top of the wall sweeping past angelfish, a multitude of butterflyfish and schools of small glassfish clinging to the reef against the pull of the current. It’s not uncommon to see giant marbled rays at least 2 metres in diameter, who don’t seem to notice the presence of divers.
The grace and peacefulness of a ray in flight is something that everyone should experience at least once in their life – it makes for a truly magical moment. Even the compulsory decompression stops at this site aren’t dull, with jacks, fusiliers and snapper passing by and large Jenkins rays circling around on the sandy bottom far below.
Shh... Don't Tell Anyone
For an unforgettable Zanzibar diving experience this little known and even less visited site, should not be missed. Even the most seasoned diver couldn’t fail to be impressed by the condition and quantity of marine life, the clarity of the water and the sense of peace that comes with drifting along the wonderful "Blue Wall".
But the exact location of this top Zanzibar dive site is a closely guarded secret, known only to a few local dive instructors – and with such places becoming rarer and rarer in the ocean, it's likely "The Blue Wall" will remain "by invitation only" in the foreseeable future.
Practical Information
Getting There
Kenya Airways and Ethiopian Airlines fly to Zanzibar via Nairobi and Addis Ababa respectively.
When to Go
The main diving season in Zanzibar runs from October through April. Diving in Zanzibar is possible all year round, but the conditions are more unpredictable outside these dates.
Languages
Swahili. English is spoken in most resorts and dive centres in Zanzibar.
Currency
Tanzanian Shillings and US Dollars in some resorts.
Diving The Blue Wall
Zanzibar dive centre, Rising Sun offers dives to The Blue Wall for proficient divers when conditions permit. For further details and best times of the year to dive this unique site contact Rising Sun Dive Centre directly.

Find the Best Plus Size Wetsuits and Plus Size Scuba Diving Gear

Water sports are particularly good for those who fit into the fuller-figure category, with the water taking the strain off carrying excess weight. If you are interested in underwater activities, learn where to find great quality plus size wetsuits and plus size scuba diving gear.
Where to Find Plus Size Wetsuits
Unless you are fortunate enough to live in a climate which is warm all year round, it is necessary to purchase a wetsuit to help you remain warm whilst in the water. Here are some examples of where larger men and curvy women and find the best plus size wetsuits:
•Tommydsports - fantastic site for finding everything you need to dive, suits ranging from 1 mm to 7 mm thickness, big and tall sizes up to 6X, many different styles including shorties available
•SeaDreamWetsuits - quality suits for curvier ladies, sizes 16-26, capri lengths with flattering curve necklines, blue or black colors
•WetsuitWarehouse - huge range of wetsuits, different lengths/thickness, some up to XXXL.
Buy Plus Size Scuba Diving Gear
In addition to a well-fitting wetsuit, it is also important to access appropriate equipment for specific underwarer activities. Here are some examples of where to buy plus size scuba gear:
•DiveIntoScuba - Lycra unisex skin suits in 4XL to 6XL, front zip, flatlock stitching, made from high quality fabrics
•Scuba.com - excellent resource for weight belts to fit up to 64" waist, buoyancy compensators up to 2XLarge, masks to fit larger faces, fins up to size 14
•JoeDiverAmerica - Scubamax range to fit up to size 3XL, suitable for men under 260 lbs and women under, Sherwood buoyancy compensators up to 2XL, Bodyglove rash guards up to 3XL.
Learn to Scuba Dive Classes
Many leisure centres now offer training in scuba diving, allowing newcomers to the sport the opportunity to get to grips with the basics in a safe, controlled environment. It is also worth checking out the following sites which specialise in trips and/or equipment for big and tall men and women:
•BigAdventures - arranged trips just for curvy women who want to be physically active, embraces the health at every size concept
•GrandStyle.com - very helpful resource for accessing information on courses, events and gear for fuller figures
•DivingFinder.com - multiple links and contacts for taking up the sport in the US.
As highlighted above, there are many stores now catering for larger men and curvy women who are looking for plus size wetsuits and the best plus size scuba diving gear. It is also well worth looking into trips and learn to dive classes for beginners, some of which are specially for bigger people wishing to take up the sport.

Take a Dive: An Interview with a Master Diver

Popular TV shows such as National Geographic offer some insight into the underwater world. Still, there are parts of the ocean that have not been explored. New species are uncovered from time to time. MarineBio.org, comments that “we know that from bacteria to plankton to the blue whale, life in the ocean greatly affects life on land, yet we know very little about the ocean, [at] least 80% is yet to be explored” (from "The Ocean" page of MarineBio.org website).
Diving is one of the ways that people can take a closer look at the ocean. Morne Le Grange, who lives in Cape Town, shares his experiences as a diving teacher and instructor.
Diving for a Work-Life Balance
Le Grange is a Project Manager for Metropolitan Health Group, one of the largest administrators in the open and closed medical schemes industry in South Africa. The role requires extensive interaction among stakeholders, ensuring that business areas are actively involved in the life cycle of projects.
“There is always something new to learn and you build your experience and knowledge of our industry at an exponential level,” says Le Grange. Given the stress associated with his job, Le Grange often takes to the sea to relax. "Diving is the single most relaxing activity in the world; when you are under the water, you enter another world … it is just you, tranquility and your peaceful thoughts,” he says.
Accreditation Available to Divers
When Le Grange started diving, he knew that it would be an important part of his life. Surfers always seem to return to the sea, whether it’s for the thrill of riding big waves or being in the open ocean. As a diver, Le Grange is no exception. “It did not take long for me to realize that just an open water certificate will not do." Diving became an important part of his life.
He admits that getting accredited for what he does was half the attraction. Le Grange, therefore achieved a number of endorsements. His certificates include an advanced open water, blacktip shark diver, deep diver, tiger shark diver, and master scuba diver.
How to Become an Accredited Diver
Besides being an experienced diver, Le Grange is also a teacher and instructor. As a recognized instructor, he is required to have, among others, certificates for EFR (Emergency First Response), coral reef conservation specialty, and digital underwater photography specialty.
It was not an easy task to earn these official document. “You have to write international exams on the physics of diving, the biology of the human body as well as on all equipment available in diving [around] the world,” says Le Grange.
Teaching Diving
After diving and working as an instructor over weekends at Calypso, located at the uShaka Marine World in Durban, South Africa, Le Grange moved to Cape Town where he joined friends on charter boats for shark diving, without the cage. “I started teaching again and my first Cape Town student qualified on 12 February 2011. I am diving every weekend now, either for fun or teaching, weather permitting.”
After teaching a couple of students, Le Grange saw how fulfilling this experience was, teaching and qualifying other people to experience a part of the planet where many would never explore in their lifetime.
Tips on Diving in Cape Town
Le Grange reckons that all over the Cape Peninsula is a good place to dive. Most of the dives take place at Pyramid Rock, about a kilometer from the naval village of Simon’s Town, in the Western Cape.
“This is where the 7-gill sharks can be found. The 7-gill sharks have never been observed close to shore until about three years ago when they migrated from the deep into waters of roughly 10 m deep and about 50 m from shore,” says Le Grange.
The ocean should be treated in an ecologically sensitive manner, to ensure that future generations can also experience what we now enjoy.

The Dive Watch: Could This Piece of Equipment be Outdated?

It is often said that time is important but to the diver it's critical; overstaying your planned bottom time (the time from the start of your descent to the start of your continuous ascent to a safety stop or the surface) can have dire consequences in the form of D.C.I. (De-Compression Illness) or 'The bends’ as it used to be known. The dive watch is used in conjunction with a set of dive tables and a depth gauge; the tables telling the diver the maximum amount of time that can be spent at a certain depth, the dive watch giving the diver the means by which to measure the bottom time accurately and the depth gauge to record the maximum depth during the dive.
The Dive Computer
These come in all shapes, sizes and types depending on what your intended use will be. The main function of the dive computer is to replace the dive tables and because it has an in-built timer many divers are now diving with no dive watch. The dive computer does so much more than dive tables and is infinitely flexible; dive tables are quite inflexible and should only be used underwater as an emergency measure, hence the old saying ‘Plan the dive and dive the plan’. The dive computer monitors the depth and time extremely accurately, its various algorithm converts this into the ‘on gassing’ and ‘off gassing’ of nitrogen during the dive. A dive plan is still made but if it is changed during the dive the dive computer will automatically update the N.D.L. (No Decompression Limit) constantly, often giving an extended safe N.D.L. on the vast majority of dives. It also monitors safe ascent speeds, safety stops and in the event of exceeding the N.D.L. it will plan the safest way to surface; advising of any emergency decompression stops that may be required. They are often linked electronically to your gas supply, under normal circumstances this would be breathing air but modern dive computers can easily handle dives using enriched air (Nitrox) or the more technical mixed gas dives.
The Dive Watch
Not so many years ago it was often said that there were ‘old divers and bold divers but no old, bold divers’ as any mistakes in the planning and subsequent execution of a dive could and often did result in tragedy. The dive watch therefore was an extremely important piece of equipment and its reliability paramount. The conditions in which a dive watch must perform are severe; constantly under pressure, being knocked about and often in extremely cold water. Through all this, the divers life is reliant on its ability to keep accurate time. Rolex sum it up with their iconic ‘Submariner’, advertising it as a ‘Self-winding, diver proof, time recorder’. The diver needs a number of things from a dive watch.
•It needs to be able to function under water.
•For the no-decompression diving limit of 40m the timepiece should be rated at a minimum static pressure of 20 bar (200m).
•It has to have a second hand; this is not for precision timing but to give an instant visual confirmation that the timepiece is still running.
•An elapsed time bezel that can be set to the minute hand at the start of the descent; it is extremely important that it rotates counter-clockwise only so that if it is knocked it can only reduce your actual bottom time, increasing the safety of the dive.
•A robust strap that can be extended to go over a ‘wetsuit’ or ‘drysuit’.
•It must be easily legible in all conditions including complete darkness with no torch.
The Sensible Option?
For normal no-decompression diving down to 40m, I always plan the dive on dive tables, wear a dive watch and set the time elapsed bezel at the start of the descent; I then use the computer to monitor the dive. The tables will give you a no-decompression 'bottom time' whereas dive computers generally calculate and update maximum no-decompression time at all depths as you ascend; this being more of a maximum no-decompression 'dive time' in reality. The computer calculates every dive as a complex 'multi-level' dive, this being where the extra time comes from over that of the tables. As a diver, you are always looking at your computer and gauge console every minute or so and should the computer suddenly stop working you are in a strong position to control the situation safely using your watch and depth gauge. It’s always good to have a back-up plan and although I would go diving without my dive computer I certainly wouldn’t go without my dive watch.

Scuba Diving in Vanuatu

Among divers, Vanuatu is famous for one thing: the wreck of the President Coolidge. The Coolidge was a cruise liner built in the 1930s and converted to a troop carrier during the Second World War. During the war some 100,000 Americans were stationed on the island of Espiritu Santo, turning the sleepy South Pacific Island into a bustling city. In 1942 the ship blundered into its own mines and sank just off one of Santo's beaches. Today it is one of the best wreck dives in the world.
Diving with a guide from a local diving centre I spent a week exploring the largely intact ship. My guide led me through long corridors, peering into cabins and bathrooms where art-deco lamps and baths are still in place. In the promenade deck we found helmets, gas masks and rifles. The holds still carried their cargo of jeeps, field guns and aircraft drop tanks. Jars of ointment and glass phials of penicillin have somehow survived intact in the medical supplies cupboard.
Million Dollar Point
A lesser diving attraction is Million Dollar Point. At the end of the war the US army offered to sell its surplus equipment to the French government of Vanuatu. When the buyers stalled beyond the deadline, the army dumped trucks, jeeps, spare parts, even rations of Coca Cola into the sea. The disordered jumble of equipment encrusted with coral and home to schools of fish makes an unsettling dive.
The diving in Santo is deep and adventurous, but the conditions are easy. Both the Coolidge and Million Dollar Point are reached by strolling down the beach and swimming a few metres out from shore. The water is clear and warm.
Shopping on Santo
Despite being home to one of the most famous dive sites in the world, Santo is not cashing in. Coolidge t-shirts ... baseball caps ... souvenir beach towels ... I found none of these on sale in the main town, Luganville. Even the few postcards available have a home-spun look, and are really just photographs pasted onto white card.
However if you feel the need for a Tilley lantern or a loud tropical print shirt, Luganville is the place for you. It's fun to shop in the food market where bunches of vegetables come wrapped in a basket woven from a green coconut leaves. In fact the one thing you can get in Santo is excellent food including delicious, locally-produced beef and Chinese cuisine.
Like the shopping opportunities, specific tourist attractions are few and far between. For a diver, that's not a problem, as the main attraction lies on the sea bed, waiting to be explored.
Air Vanuatu flies daily to and from Australia and three times a week to and from New Zealand as well as providing air links between the islands.

More Than Just Another Hawaiian Snorkeling Trip

On the island of Maui, a snorkeling trip becomes a learning experience for children and adults alike when utilizing Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program.
Before the Snorkeling Adventure
At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment Center at the Ritz-Carlton in Kapalua, Maui, a special snorkeling program is offered several days a week. It begins with fitting participants with snorkel gear and proceeds with an enlightening visual program highlighting what to expect while snorkeling and what can be observed on an underwater adventure.
Included in the presentation are the principles of the Ocean Futures Society, which focus on clean water, preserving and protecting marine habitats, being cognizant of marine mammals, and sustaining the natural resources of the ocean. The slides and video footage remind the soon-to-be snorkelers that the ocean is a living world, and thus needs to be encountered as another civilization.
Each snorkeler is provided with an underwater camera to document his or her journey and is also reminded to enjoy the beauty of the undersea world, capture it on film, and respect the fragile environment.
Learning while Experiencing with Qualified Instructors
Oceanographers, naturalists, and a well-trained staff of marine biologists lead the snorkeling program and other opportunities for participation at the Environmental Center. We were fortunate enough to have Kevin Highfield, an experienced and well-educated team member, as our guide. During the opening presentation, Kevin described the undersea world from the development of a coral reef to the fish, turtle and plant population that survives there.
Kevin carefully walked the group through all preparations needed to fully sense the impact of entering the world beneath the surface. His complete explanations gave even novice snorkelers confidence and offered those who had previously enjoyed a snorkeling trip some added information. Because of his instructions, looking at life below the water was soon to become a heightened experience.
Entering the World Beneath the Ocean’s Surface
The program offered by the Ambassadors of the Environment is entitled “Cities Beneath the Sea,” and once the snorkeler enters the water and peers below it, it is evident that there is a different world to view. The images from the video watched at the center now come into focus and the teachings of marine biologist, Kevin, open up a new world of discovery. Colorful reefs, bright hued fish, ocean plant life, large turtles the size of small children and the beauty of it all fill the snorkeler with awe and wonder.
Possibly most surprising of all, after having seen the video and hearing Kevin’s explanations, was the abundance and variety of coral. For a snorkeler who had previously viewed underwater sites, this experience was truly different. There was now an understanding of the underwater world and especially a new appreciation of coral reefs. Kevin brought to the surface some specimens that appeared to be colorful coral, but in actuality were various types of starfish. He allowed each of us to carefully touch and inspect these creatures and then he patiently took each back to its undersea home.
Some of those on the trip were able to dive to the bottom and experience sea life at close hand. Their exuberance upon returning to the surface was catching. Having been presented with knowledge before entering the water and having some understanding of what it takes to create the Cities Beneath the Sea made for an enriching and intriguing adventure.

Systems for Tracking Scuba Divers on and off a Scuba Dive Boat

A scuba diver being left behind after a boat dive is one of the most tragic accidents that can occur in scuba diving. And unfortunately it does happen.
For a scuba diver left behind bobbing in the ocean as the dive boat heads back to shore, it must be a horrific situation. And the divemaster, boat skipper and other divers on the boat must also encounter their personal hell as they go through the “what if” scenarios.
There are a number of reasons why scuba divers could be left behind. Fortunately there are systems to ensure an efficient and accurate head count is taken at the end of each scuba dive.
The following are some basic systems that could be used to track scuba divers in and out of a dive boat. They could be used individually; or even have two systems running as a double check to ensure no diver is left behind.
Wristband and Token System for Tracking Scuba Divers on a Dive Boat
An almost foolproof system is based on that used in underground mining. Before each diver goes below, the divemaster hands them a wrist band to wear for the dive. This can be a simple stretch fabric band that the diver wears under their wetsuit.
Following the ascent, and back on the dive boat, the diver hands the wrist band back to the divemaster. Then it is a simple matter of the divemaster counting the returned wristbands; if they tally to the same number handed out, then the divemaster can be confident that all divers are counted.
A variation on this is that each diver is given a small disk or token when they step onto the boat. At the diving entry point there is a board with points where the diver can hang their tag. There can even be their name beside the spot where their tag goes. A divemaster should check that each diver puts a tag on the board before entering the water: no tag, no dive.
Then when back on the dive boat after a dive, each diver removes their tag from the board. When the board is clear, all divers are back on the boat.
Simple Number Count for Tracking Scuba Divers on a Dive Boat
Taking a simple count of divers first entering and then leaving the deck of a dive boat is the basic way to keep track of divers.
This is best suited for very small numbers of divers, probably up to around 15. Any more and the job of counting heads at the end of a dive can get complex. With a large number of divers, a buddy pair could get counted twice, and effectively miss two others that may still be in the water.
This process is best suited for those situations where the divemaster knows exactly who is on the boat. Maybe even knowing every diver by name, so none is missing at the end of the last dive.
Whiteboard Tracking System for Checking Scuba Divers Returned to Dive Boat
Tracking on a white-board or similar written tracking system is one of the most common and almost fool-proof.
The divemaster writes each buddy pair’s name and time of entering the water onto a white-board, or slate or even a simple sheet of paper. Then at the end of the dive the same divemaster crosses them off the list.
For multiple dives, an expansion of this system is to track the time underwater, maximum depth and surface interval between dives to reduce the possibility of the bends on subsequent dives. Each diver provides their details when they return to the boat.
This system works well, provided there is strict control over who is writing the names down. A diver may come back on board after a few minutes to get something, get crossed off the list and then re-enter the water without being checked in again. Making it possible for the diver, or buddy pair, to be left behind.
Any of the above system would be suitable for ensuring scuba divers are not left behind. Which system to use is mainly dependant on the number of divers. A boat dive with four divers is much easier to manage than a big boat with 50 or so divers to track.
As with most safety rules in scuba diving, it is up to the individual situation at the time.

Diving Hot Spots in New Zealand

New Zealand has the fourth largest exclusive oceanic economic zone in the world and as such many New Zealanders' pastimes revolve around the sea from boating, fishing, whale watching to diving.
New Zealand has many different dive sites across the country, whose waters span from sub-tropical temperatures in the north to the sub-Antarctic waters in the south. There is a distinct range in the underwater flora and fauna that can be observed across New Zealand, but not only that, due to New Zealand’s isolation it also means many of the species here are endemic to this country and cannot be seen anywhere else. Tropical islands that offer warm, crystal clear waters for diving can't compete with New Zealand’s waters, which are rich with nutrients and bursting with life.
Here are just a few dive sites from North to South to whet your appetite:
Tutukaka, North Island
Tutukaka is located approximately 30 km north of Whangarei and is home to one of the top 10 diving spots in the world known as the Poor Knights. The Poor Knights was the second marine reserve created in New Zealand and as a result the marine life is bountiful.
The adventurous divers can check out the Twin Wrecks, which consists of the HMNZS Tui and the HMNZS Waikato, both of which were once large navy vessels. Their final resting places were chosen specifically for divers in mind with access and exit points cut out to allow safe access to areas that would otherwise be unreachable, so you could find yourself 30 m under the water sitting in the bridge with your hands on the steering wheel.
Goat Island, North Island
This is a great place for shore diving, especially for those who are new divers as the water rarely gets deeper than 5 m close to shore. And for those who want a challenge, night diving is a popular activity here. The shallow water and the nearness to land provide an environment where a diver can feel safe.
Just as on land where some species can only be viewed at night, the same can be seen under the water. For instance brittlestars, with their small bodies and long thin legs, can be seen creeping around. The crayfish that hide in rocks and crevices during the day come out to feed and when your torch alights on them they become illuminated.
Napier Aquarium, North Island
If diving in the open water doesn't appeal to you then maybe diving in a more controlled environment will. Diving into New Zealand's national aquarium offers you the chance to feed the local inhabitants from the fish to the stingrays and for those brave enough you can also feed the sharks and have your photo taken at the same time so you can prove it to all your friends.
Fiordland, South Island
Luminous mountains and spectacular waterfalls that are always heavy with the intense rainfall provide a picturesque backdrop to one of the most extraordinary and unique dive spots in New Zealand. The sea water here is layered with fresh water due to the amount of rain in the area. As a result the water is generally darker than can be seen on most dives. While this might not sound appealing at first it has meant that deep water species can be seen at a much shallower level, such as the red and black corals that are normally too deep.
With so many choices available there is something for everyone.

Five Popular SCUBA Dive Sites in Oahu, Hawaii

Hawaii is a favorite destination for both seasoned divers and novice SCUBA students, thanks to its pristine water, warm temperatures, and many colorful environments with intriguing wildlife. Though divers in Hawaii are in constant hot debate about which island makes the best diving destination, everyone can agree that each island holds its own wondrous and unique sites which warrant extensive exploration.
The island of Oahu is surrounded by dive-friendly, clear blue waters. Popular dive sites include lava tubes in preserved coves, nature reserves, wrecks and artificial reefs, and diverse environments with greatly assorted wildlife. Each site mentioned here is accessible, unique, and full of beautiful surprises.
Diving or Snorkeling Electric Beach in Kapolei, Oahu
Easily accessible to all levels of SCUBA diver and snorkeler by either boat or shore, the appeal of this site comes from the large wildlife population. Clean, warm water discharged from the adjacent power plant attracts millions of fish, plenty of sea turtles, and even Hawaii's spinner dolphins. Divers should practice caution near the exhaust tubes as the water is ejected strongly, causing a powerful upward current. Park at Hawaiian Electric Beach Park in Kapolei if accessing the water via the beach.
Diving or Snorkeling Sharks Cove on the North Shore of Oahu
A favorite dive site for shore access, shallow and rocky-bottomed Sharks Cove is popular with divers, free divers, and snorkelers, beginner to advanced. It is best explored in the summer months as surf season can kick up some hefty waves. Despite its name, this cove is not generally frequented by sharks, though the occasional white tip, eagle rays, turtles, and many varieties of fish call this intricate area home. It is a nature reserve and illegal to fish, so the wildlife is abundant. The rocky habitat makes for great exploration. Intermediate-advanced divers will especially enjoy the rocky ridges, lava tubes, and caverns. Parking can be a bit tight as this is an extremely popular site; arrive early to avoid the parking lot frustration.
Diving or Snorkeling Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Oahu
A beautiful and plentiful site loved by both snorkelers and SCUBA divers, Hanauma Bay is just a short distance from Waikiki Beach and provides easy shore access with an inviting beach park. Newcomers at Hanauma Bay are required to watch a short video about the delicate flora and fauna beneath the water's surface and then can freely explore the dynamic reef. The facility is family-friendly, rents snorkel supplies for a small fee, and is closed on Tuesdays.
SCUBA Diving the Sea Tiger Ship Wreck off the South Shore of Oahu
Grab a seat on a dive boat to explore this "recent" wreck. This 168-foot vessel was sunk as an artificial reef in the mid-1990s and has begun to boast coral growth and an assortment of exciting wildlife. Visibility is often over 100 feet though currents can be strong and the depth requires careful attention to gauges. As with any wreck, deteriorating metal and overheads can serve as threats, so use caution on this intermediate-advanced level dive.
SCUBA Diving the YO-257 and the San Pedro Wrecks off the South Shore of Oahu
Sunk in 1989, the YO-257 is a well-established artificial reef, showcasing a variety of flora and fauna and beautiful swim-throughs. This is a retired World War II vessel often toured by the Atlantic Submarine. Due to its age, divers should use extreme caution near the wreck itself, as many sharp angles threaten hoses and skin. Additionally, divers should keep an eye and ear open for the submarine itself.
Just about 100 feet from the YO-257 wreck lies the San Pedro, a sunken Korean fishing vessel which is home to several turtles and the occasional shark. Beware the strong currents while exploring both these advanced dives.
The Underwater World of Oahu, Hawaii
This list of underwater sites barely scratches the surface of the abundance and beauty Oahu has to offer. This area boasts something for everyone, on land or in the ocean. Whether seeking shore dives, snorkeling sites, wreck dives, deep dives, SCUBA certification classes, quality underwater equipment, or even a dive buddy, the best plan of action is to visit one of the many dive shops on the island. At every shop, visitors or locals can find friendly advice, top-notch equipment, boat charters, and the opportunity to meet new diving friends. Aloha!

Fun Scuba Diving Adventures off the Coast of Maui, Hawaii

The area off the coast of the island of Maui is one of the most spectacular scuba diving destinations in the world. The multiplicity of diverse dive sites in this area offers the avid scuba diver many different venues for a variety of diving experiences. The excellent visibility in this region provides divers with an optimal view of extensive assortment of marine life and coral that live in the waters around the Hawaiian Islands.
Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater is a partially sunken volcanic crater off the coast of Maui, Hawaii. This crescent-shaped creation has two separate sides that offer unique diving experiences and the opportunity to see over 200 species of fish. The back side is a wall that drops to depths of 300 feet, which creates the perfect place for a drift dive. Moray eels, whitetip reef sharks and masked angelfish are just some of the species found along the back wall. The front area has a gradually descending reef with visibility over 100 feet and many colorful tropical fish to see. Some divers enjoy searching the shallower areas for jewelry and other valuable treasures lost by snorkelers in the waters above.
The Cathedrals of Lanai
Lanai Island is a small island off the coast of Maui where under water lava structures present an excellent venue for scuba diving. These building-like creations are collectively known as the Cathedrals and were formed when molten lava rock flowed into the ocean water and cooled. The resulting volcanic ledges, walls and caverns make great mazes for divers to explore. Rare varieties of coral can be found inside along with eels, trumpet fish and other interesting marine life. This is a wonderful area for diving when the water is calm.
Turtle Reef
Turtle Reef is the area comprised of a large portion of the coast on Maui’s western side. Coral gardens run the entire length of the island and endangered green sea turtles are frequently seen during dives in this area. The turtles can weigh up to 400 pounds and can stay underwater for extended periods of time when resting. Divers might find them under ledges or in caves during dives along Turtle Reef. They can also be found actively engaging in recreation at the surface in many areas.
Maui, Hawaii is One of the Most Optimal Locations for Scuba Diving
The island of Maui, Hawaii offers some of the most fantastic scuba diving in the entire world. With its abundant quantity of marine life and bountiful diversity of dive locations, Maui offers something for everyone from novice to experienced divers. It’s a magnificent scuba diving locality.
To learn about other Hawaiian adventures see Fun Things to do at the Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island, Hawaii and Great Hikes on the Island of Kauai

Warm sea and coral reefs make Sharm El Sheikh ideal place to learn how to dive

DIVING off a coral reef is for beautiful, lithe young things with tousled hair and plaited leather ankle bracelets, right?
Wrong. The fish don’t care if you’re in trendy Rip Curl surf gear or if you shoehorned yourself into a supposed shape-enhancing M&S special.
And neither did I once I got into the water. We spanned three decades in our group, but it was the oldies, in our 40s, who really embraced the adventure on our dive in open water.
We had headed to a reef in the Ras Mohammed National Park, an hour’s boat ride away from the Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt.
If you have ever seen Finding Nemo you’ll know what to expect. There are thousands of colourful fish of all shapes and sizes, that weave their way through an underwater garden.
There is so much to see, you hardly know which way to look. I highly recommend an underwater camera.
The Red Sea is second only to the Dead Sea for salt content, which makes it ideal for learning to dive.
My trip was run by Camel Dive Club, one of the oldest in Sharm, who ensure you are well looked after.
At this point I’ll mention safety.
It’s top of Camel Dive’s agenda, and although they offer both snorkelling and scuba diving, you’ll need a doctor’s okay to try the latter.
Age, family medical history and a host of minor ailments prevented most of my group having a go.
I was disappointed, but determined to make the most of the snorkelling.Ras Mohammed National Park has a world renowned reef, and Camel Dive has a number of well equipped luxury boats from which to dive.
Some of my fellow travellers were daunted by the swim from the boat to the reef, but our guide, Clare, a Brit who has been running tours for more than a decade, took out a life ring for the less confident to hold on to.
However, on seeing how much effort it took her to free dive to point out a “Nemo and baby”, you soon realise just how hard it is to sink.
Camel Dive kits you out in mask, snorkel and fins, plus a life vest, mainly for visibility, but you can blow in some air if you feel you need extra buoyancy, which you don’t.
I am not a strong swimmer – it’s my least favourite form of exercise, but I was in my element and could have stayed out there for hours. This was definitely the highlight of my trip, but you can have a similar experience without leaving the hotel.
I was staying at the five-star Grand Rotana Resort and Spa, which has its own coral reef off its private beach.
Camel Dive also has a dive centre here, and it’s a great place to learn.
As well as diving, a visit to the Rotana’s Zen Spa is a must. There is an huge menu of treatments, from deep tissue massage to reflexology.
The treatments are not free, but the prices are competitive and you’ll come away feeling totally invigorated.
The hotel has three all-inclusive world-class restaurants offering a range of global cuisines, plus snack bars, grills and outdoor restaurants.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner in the Ramses restaurant has European and Middle Eastern specialities, while the Sky Lounge is decked out like an oriental majlis, where you can sample anything from Arabic tea to cocktails.
The Rotana’s rooms are everything you would expect of a five-star hotel – spacious, with huge, comfortable beds, complimentary robes and slippers, marble bathrooms and private balconies with beach views.
Bedrooms are located in little blocks, an easy walk from reception through the gardens, but there are also plenty of golf buggies on hand.
There is plenty to see and do at the hotel, but it would be a shame to miss some of the other activities, such as desert camel treks, sunset bedouin dinner shows and quad biking.
Sharm El Sheikh is often used as an R&R stop after visiting Cairo or Luxor, but with its own international airport and flights direct from Glasgow about five hours away, there is no excuse not to make it a trip in its own right.

UGA Marine Science students scuba, snorkel their way to degrees

Scuba diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking and boating expeditions are just a few of the opportunities the Marine Science Department has to offer.
The Marine Science Department at the University is unknown to many students because of its lack of an undergraduate major. The Interdisciplinary Study Program, through Franklin College, allows students who are interested in marine science to obtain a concentration in marine biology, marine chemistry or physical oceanography.
 “We do sort of fly under the radar, not because we want to, but because we don’t have a standard major,” said Brian Binder, the department head. “We are trying to get the word out that you can study marine sciences at UGA.”
Students are advised to take calculus, physics, chemistry and biology if they are interested in the IDS Program. The department has hopes that one day, a marine science major will be available to students.
“We are interested in forming a major. Over the years, we have developed numerous proposals, and the University has always been quite supportive,” Binder said. “New majors have to be approved by the Board of Regents. For one reason or the other, it has not received their approval.”
Contrary to popular belief that marine science is filled solely with dolphins and fish, the department focuses more on the microbial aspect of marine life, Catherine Teare Ketter, an academic professional in the marine science department, said.
“The traditional thing that happens is that students, as kids, would watch the nature channel and see whales and get psyched, and that’s great, but most of the faculty here don’t study the large charismatic organisms,” Binder said. “Most of the biologists study microbes. It’s really the microbes that drive the system. It seems students have an inherent interest in marine science, and that is what draws them here.”
For students interested in marine science and looking into graduate school, the Marine Science Department offers a program with research opportunities.
“We offer predominately doctorates and some Masters [degrees]. There is a core curriculum that everyone has to take that includes chemical oceanography, physical oceanography and biological oceanography,” Teare Ketter said. “There is mandatory research ship time and then coastal research.”
This department leaves the confines of the Athens campus frequently. There are research programs on Skidaway Island and Sapelo Island, both on the Georgia coast.
“All the biologists here have laboratory work, and they have field work,” Binder said. “Sometimes it’s off the coast of Georgia, in the middle of the ocean or Antarctica. It’s all over the place.”
A small group of undergraduate students also recently found the Marine Science Club.
“It’s brand new. The plans are that they are going to bring in faculty members to tell them what they do and if they have any opportunities in their labs or even field expeditions,” said Mary Ann Moran, a professor and faculty adviser for the Marine Science Club. “Since we don’t have an undergraduate program, we are really excited about a way to connect more to the students who are interested.”
The club plans on taking a snorkeling and scuba diving trip and a weekend trip to the University Marine Institute at Sapelo Island. The club is student-run and all majors are welcome.
“The ocean is something near and dear to my heart,” said Melody Calloway, a science education graduate student.
.

Scuba dive, snorkel, surf and sky safari in St Kitts

If your vision of a Caribbean holiday includes fine beaches, lush tropical scenery and total relaxation, St Kitts fits the bill perfectly. But beware: you may well be tempted from your sun lounger by the exciting range of activities and adventures on offer.
As the smallest nation in the Americas, the twin isles of St Kitts and Nevis are just made for exploring and there are many rewarding ways of doing so.
A horseback trek through the surf is a great way to see the coastline. To discover the old cane trails that cut through the island’s interior, you can join an exhilarating quad-bike expedition – or hire a mountain bike and rely on your own pedal power.
You’ll appreciate another perspective on St Kitts at Sky Safari, where five zip-lines send you soaring above the rainforest canopy in safety. And for the ultimate angle on the island and spectacular views over its Caribbean neighbours, you can sign up for a tandem skydive (December to March).

Great Lakes Scuba Diving

The Great Lakes are the perfect destination for your next scuba diving adventure!

Kristina SchwabMar 4, 2012
When many people think of places to scuba dive, they often imagine warm, blue waters with colorful fish swimming around a reef in the Caribbean. Warm water diving is popular amongst many divers. However, other areas like the Great Lakes can offer challenging dives with rewarding results, and exploring them should be on almost every divers bucket list.

Great Lakes scuba diving is a world away from the Caribbean, and unlike warmer waters, they often wear thick wetsuits or even dry suits all year round. In fact, most divers wear dry suits even in the middle of July when diving in Lake Superior. Furthermore, the diving conditions can vary greatly. One day the water can be crystal clear, but the next day a diver might not see their hand in front of their face. Cold water is the advantage the Great Lakes have over many warm oceans though.

Because the water is cold and salt free, many Great Lakes shipwrecks are pristinely preserved. Salt in ocean water deteriorates metal and wood. Additionally, the warmer water harbors small bacteria and creatures that corrode wrecks at the bottom of the World’s oceans. The Great Lakes, on the other hand, do not have salt or bacteria to corrode wrecks away. As a result, they are littered with hundred of shipwrecks—some dating back to the early 1700s. Conversely, wrecks from World War II are deteriorating at a rapid pace in ocean environments.

The preserved shipwrecks in the Great Lakes from hundreds of years ago draw divers from around the world. Nautical archeology students from Texas A&M and East Carolina University often travel to the area to study and survey wrecks because they are so well preserved. Because wrecks there are well preserved, archeologists can study them and learn vast amounts about the various cultures and people who explored and settled the region. Shipwrecks are a wealth of historical knowledge because they can contain trade items or extravagant treasures, and wrecks can often be a small microcosm for understanding particular eras or cultures. For recreational divers, the lakes offer an underwater museum with hundreds of exhibits to visit.

While some Great Lakes wrecks often require boat charters; however, some sites can be accessed by from shore. Cris Kohl’s book The Great Lakes Diving Guide provides detailed information regarding many Great Lakes scuba diving sites. Kohl provides GPS coordinates, historical information, photos, and descriptions of shipwrecks. For any one planning a diving trip to the region, this is a must have resource. Additionally, Underwater Preserves Around The Great Lakes provides information of underwater preserves for divers to explore. Contacting local dive shops is another way to learn about dive sites in the area one plans to travel.