News and articles on scuba diving, marine biology, oceanography and marine conservation. http://news.scubatravel.co.uk/ http://www.scubatravel.co.uk/ Issue 305 of SCUBA News (ISSN 1476-8011) is now freely available - The wonderful world of Christmas Tree worms, Unspoilt Vanuatu, Colombia Adventure, liveaboard diving deals... https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-news305.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-news305.html Drones have been used to successfully collect samples from the exhaled breath from wild humpback, sperm and fin whales in northern Norway, hailing a new era of non-invasive health monitoring for these marine giants in Arctic regions. https://www.kcl.ac.uk/news/drone-sampling-of-whale-breath-reveals-first-evidence-of-potentially-deadly-virus-in-arctic https://www.kcl.ac.uk/news/drone-sampling-of-whale-breath-reveals-first-evidence-of-potentially-deadly-virus-in-arctic Whether a species just freshly emerged, or it has been around for millions of years does not dictate its vulnerability. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1109928 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1109928 Orcas and dolphins have been spotted for the first time working as a team to hunt salmon off the coast of British Columbia, according to a new study which suggests a cooperative relationship between the two predators. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/dec/11/orca-killer-whale-dolphin-hunt-salmon-study-british-columbia-canada https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/dec/11/orca-killer-whale-dolphin-hunt-salmon-study-british-columbia-canada Say you want to listen in on a group of super-intelligent aliens whose language you don't understand, and whose spaceship only flies by Earth once an hour. It's not unlike what Harvard scientists and others are doing, except their target species, sperm whales, live here on Earth. https://seas.harvard.edu/news/2025/12/tapping-whale-talk https://seas.harvard.edu/news/2025/12/tapping-whale-talk A dual approach - improving conditions on both land and sea - may be the best way to protect these crucial ecosystems https://www.biology.ox.ac.uk/article/connection-and-protection-boost-health-in-coral-reefs https://www.biology.ox.ac.uk/article/connection-and-protection-boost-health-in-coral-reefs Study finds that exposure to addictive drugs like fentanyl and ketamine, prevalent in surface waters, affect the behaviour and survival rates of oyster larvae. Potential risks to humans. https://www.sra.org/2025/11/30/oyster-larvae-on-drugs-move-slowly-and-are-stressed/ https://www.sra.org/2025/11/30/oyster-larvae-on-drugs-move-slowly-and-are-stressed/ Widespread rule-breaking in Mexico whale shark tourism https://www.usf.edu/news/2025/usf-study-finds-widespread-rule-breaking-in-whale-shark-tourism-hotspot.aspx https://www.usf.edu/news/2025/usf-study-finds-widespread-rule-breaking-in-whale-shark-tourism-hotspot.aspx Seahorses highly sought by divers and underwater photographers, but are they inadvertently stressing these beautiful fish? How to approach them safely https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/underwater-photography-stresses-seahorses.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/underwater-photography-stresses-seahorses.html Canary Islands as the missing link in a global sea urchin killer pandemic kills off urchins in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, the Red Sea, the Sea of Oman and the western Indian Ocean. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1108863 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1108863 Yet another Egyptian liveaboard operated by the Dive Pro Liveaboard has had to have its divers rescued. MV Seaphoria ran aground near Daedelus reef. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/another-dive-pro-liveaboard-accident.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/another-dive-pro-liveaboard-accident.html United Nations affirmed the basic human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment. The idea is straightforward: people's fundamental human rights to health, food, security and even life rely on a healthy environment. https://news.mongabay.com/2025/12/healthy-oceans-are-a-human-right-commentary/ https://news.mongabay.com/2025/12/healthy-oceans-are-a-human-right-commentary/ Way out in the Atlantic Ocean, divers love the Cape Verde islands for the caves, wrecks, dolphins, sharks, manta rays, loggerhead turtles and invertebrates. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/africa/cape-verde-diving.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/africa/cape-verde-diving.html Spectacular shore dives dropping off to great depths https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/redsea/dahabdive.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/redsea/dahabdive.html Pay $50, get $100 voucher! Black Friday offer, ends 1 December https://tinyurl.com/50offDiving https://tinyurl.com/50offDiving When freshwater from rainfall and runoff enters the ocean, it can significantly reduce the salinity of the seawater and cause mild to severe hyposalinity. Hyposalinity causes osmotic stress, which leads to bleaching and even death for entire coral reef systems https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1106630 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1106630 Even the nation's most protected marine areas will likely face the same climate shocks as unprotected zones, a new study finds https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1106770 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1106770 In the summer of 2022, 20 islands in the Maldives were flooded when a distant swell event in the Indian Ocean coincided with an extremely high tide level. This once rare event could happen every two to three years by around 2050, scientists warn. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1105744 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1105744 Divers and snorkellers in Townsville can explore a unique underwater gallery where art meets science - the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) - an ambitious project blending creativity, conservation and community action to protect the world's largest coral reef system. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/underwater-art-reef-conservation-great-barrier-reef.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/underwater-art-reef-conservation-great-barrier-reef.html Particle plumes ejected by mining operations into deep Pacific waters threaten food source of more than half of the zooplankton types -- leading to bottom-up disruption of delicately balanced food system https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1104607 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1104607 The extraordinary little dragon, Eurypegasus draconis, creeps across the seafloor encased in a hard armour. Revealed, where to see them and why they shed their skin every week. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/marine-life/little-dragon-seamoth.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/marine-life/little-dragon-seamoth.html A Nova Scotia fisherman has been fined more than $76,000 for fishing in a closed area and lying about where he was. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/atlantic-halibut-fishing-dfo-illegal-fishing-9.6964596 https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/atlantic-halibut-fishing-dfo-illegal-fishing-9.6964596 With red fluorescent eyes and see-through skin, this spooky fish father guards its eggs against allcomers. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/haunting-the-coral-reefs-the-ghost-goby-is-our-creature-of-the-month.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/haunting-the-coral-reefs-the-ghost-goby-is-our-creature-of-the-month.html The island nation of Mauritius is home to nearly 250 kinds of corals, but saw 80% of its corals bleached in the latest mass bleaching caused in part by climate change. Scientists question whether coral restoration works in the face of mounting threats: from heat stress, ocean acidification and marine pollution. https://news.mongabay.com/2025/10/mauritius-coral-reef-restoration-mass-bleaching-ocean-warming/ https://news.mongabay.com/2025/10/mauritius-coral-reef-restoration-mass-bleaching-ocean-warming/ Leatherbacks make one of the longest migrations on Earth - swimming thousands of miles from Indonesia to the U.S. West Coast to feed on jellyfish. Yet, along their journey, they face mounting threats: poaching, coastal development, sand mining and climate change. https://seaturtles.org/protect-the-ancient-leatherback-empower-indigenous-sea-guardians/ https://seaturtles.org/protect-the-ancient-leatherback-empower-indigenous-sea-guardians/ Latest issue of SCUBA News up - 5% diving discount, 10 best shore dives in the world, longnose hawkfish and diving news from around the world. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-news303.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-news303.html Backbone of the reef, staghorn and elkhorn corals, killed off by the 2023 heatwave. https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct6yg1 https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct6yg1 Where are the world's best shore dives - find out and cast your vote now https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/best-shore-dives.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/best-shore-dives.html Even if all plastic inputs into the ocean were stopped immediately, fragments of buoyant plastic debris would continue to pollute the ocean surface and release microplastics for more than a century. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/plastic-pollution-could-linger-at-ocean-surfaces-for-over-a-century.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/plastic-pollution-could-linger-at-ocean-surfaces-for-over-a-century.html Every year, many millions of tons of plastic end up in the ocean. It's a serious and rapidly increasing environmental problem. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1102322 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1102322 This prestigious competition is open not just to professional photographers and those with expensive camera rigs but also features categories for compact cameras and smart phones. With $60000 of prizes, what are you waiting for? https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/2025-underwater-photo-contest.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/2025-underwater-photo-contest.html Earth's vast oceanic biodiversity remains largely unexplored, with only a fraction of an estimated two million total living marine species formally named and described. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1101973 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1101973 Passionate divers and content creators wanted to represent SSI on social media, share their underwater adventures and inspire a new generation of ocean explorers. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/ssi-launches-global-ambassador-program-2025-applications-now-open.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/ssi-launches-global-ambassador-program-2025-applications-now-open.html Lund University archaeologists have revealed details of late medieval artillery from the wreck of the royal Danish-Norwegian flagship, Gribshunden. The shipwreck is the only known example of its kind from the medieval period - as both ship and weapons are nearly identical to those of the early Spanish and Portuguese explorers. https://ecomagazine.com/news/research/forgotten-royal-warship-sunk-500-years-ago-reveals-surprising-secrets/ https://ecomagazine.com/news/research/forgotten-royal-warship-sunk-500-years-ago-reveals-surprising-secrets/ Two lionfish have been seen in Croatia at Brac and Solta, the northernmost occurrence in the Mediterranean Sea https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/divers-lionfish-croatia-record-northward-invasion-mediterranean.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/divers-lionfish-croatia-record-northward-invasion-mediterranean.html Black corals are yellow, red, green - anything but black. They grow faster than almost any other coral and can live down to 8600 m. What the science says about black corals https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/black-corals-facts.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/black-corals-facts.html More marine life is living on some World War II munitions disposed of on the Baltic Sea's seabed than on the sediment surrounding it. The findings, reported in a paper in Communications Earth and Environment, show that some marine organisms can tolerate high levels of toxic compounds if there is a hard surface for them to inhabit. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1099269 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1099269 With over 300 monthly issues, a lot has changed since the first mailing, but the high quality articles and news remain constant https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-news-25-years-old.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-news-25-years-old.html Sharks are much more the oppressed than the oppressors https://www.latimes.com/environment/newsletter/2025-09-03/boiling-point-jaws-legacy-sharks https://www.latimes.com/environment/newsletter/2025-09-03/boiling-point-jaws-legacy-sharks More than a decade of acoustic recordings of grouper grunts are providing new insight into how sound can be used to monitor and manage vulnerable fish populations. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1098711 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1098711 They have withstood four consecutive and intensifying marine heatwaves, including the world's most extreme 2024 event, without suffering mass bleaching - a resilience unmatched elsewhere. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1098645 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1098645 Lateral flow tests saved the day for public health during the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling rapid population-level health monitoring so that public health officials could make informed decisions to keep their contingents alive and healthy. What if these technologies could also be used to monitor coral health? https://icriforum.org/rutgers-researchers-coral-health/ https://icriforum.org/rutgers-researchers-coral-health/ A new study is helping scientists map the abundance of phytoplankton and zooplankton with greater accuracy than ever before, a development which - in turn - is improving their ability to predict the presence of North Atlantic right whales and their habitats. https://oceanographicmagazine.com/news/tracking-right-whales-the-right-way-by-thinking-small/ https://oceanographicmagazine.com/news/tracking-right-whales-the-right-way-by-thinking-small/ World Manta Day aims to celebrate manta rays and raise awareness of the threats to these beautiful ocean giants. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/where-to-dive-with-manta-rays.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/where-to-dive-with-manta-rays.html Top liveaboards for single travellers. Travelling on your own is a great way to meet other divers and there are a number of liveaboards with single cabins just perfect for your next dive trip. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/top-scuba-diving-liveaboards-single-travellers.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/top-scuba-diving-liveaboards-single-travellers.html Every arm is capable of performing all action types; however, there was a clear pattern of arm partitioning: front arms mainly use movements to aid in exploration, while back arms use movements that primarily support movement. Additionally, the octopuses demonstrated remarkable flexibility - single arms were shown to perform multiple arm movements simultaneously and different arm movements were coordinated across several arms, showcasing their complex motor control. https://www.fau.edu/newsdesk/articles/octopus-arms-in-action https://www.fau.edu/newsdesk/articles/octopus-arms-in-action When you buy shark meat in the U.S., you may be getting a different species - including an endangered one that contains high levels of mercury, all due to widespread mislabelling. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/dangerous-mislabelling-endangered-sharks-store.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/dangerous-mislabelling-endangered-sharks-store.html The Mediterranean Sea is a semi-enclosed sea and connected to the global ocean only through the Strait of Gibraltar. As a result, the Mediterranean Sea is warming faster and acidifying more strongly than the open ocean. What happens in the Mediterranean often foreshadows changes to be expected elsewhere, so the Mediterranean Sea acts like an early warning system for processes that will later affect the global ocean. Every tenth of a degree counts. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1097223 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1097223 More algae blooms in Florida's waters means less food for its struggling manatees. https://environmentamerica.org/articles/why-are-manatees-starving-and-what-can-we-do-to-help/ https://environmentamerica.org/articles/why-are-manatees-starving-and-what-can-we-do-to-help/ From the Sand Falls to Socorro - fabulous diving at Mexico's Baja California https://scubatravel.co.uk/baja/best-dives.html https://scubatravel.co.uk/baja/best-dives.html Survey of eight countries finds 82% of people support 30x30 biodiversity target, as progress stalls on protected areas https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/sep/05/30x30-biodiversity-target-protecting-nature-land-seas-survey-public-support-aoe https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/sep/05/30x30-biodiversity-target-protecting-nature-land-seas-survey-public-support-aoe Resilient coral growth predicted to decrease over next 3 decades, study finds https://news.osu.edu/fighting-extinction-coral-reefs-show-signs-of-adapting-to-warming-seas/ https://news.osu.edu/fighting-extinction-coral-reefs-show-signs-of-adapting-to-warming-seas/ You can feast guilt-free on farmed oysters and mussels as their production can have environmental benefits - but those probably don't include capturing carbon https://www.newscientist.com/article/2494531-are-farmed-oysters-mussels-and-clams-the-ultimate-green-foods/ https://www.newscientist.com/article/2494531-are-farmed-oysters-mussels-and-clams-the-ultimate-green-foods/ The Maldivian government is to lift the lifting of a 15-year ban on shark fishing in November. The move has sparked concern from conservationists over potential long-term damage to the ecosystem and the Maldives' tourism-reliant economy. The direct revenue from shark divers has been estimated to be US$14.4 million, with scuba diving in general estimated to generate US$43 million. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/maldives-u-turn-shark-fishing-allowed.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/maldives-u-turn-shark-fishing-allowed.html Simple modifications to fishing platforms and boats should be effective in protecting the whale sharks from injury or scarring. https://www.frontiersin.org/news/2025/08/28/frontiers-marine-science-whale-sharks-off-indonesian-papua-scars https://www.frontiersin.org/news/2025/08/28/frontiers-marine-science-whale-sharks-off-indonesian-papua-scars Get diving discount, anywhere in the world. SCUBA News has, for 25 years, been a reliable source of info on new and established diving destinations, with news on events and research in the diving and marine life. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-news301.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-news301.html Octopuses may be vivid dreamers, flushing vibrant patterns on their skin while they sleep. https://www.mbl.edu/news/snoozing-cephalopods-may-wear-their-dreams-their-skin https://www.mbl.edu/news/snoozing-cephalopods-may-wear-their-dreams-their-skin Sharks continually shed and regrow teeth throughout their lives, replacing worn or lost teeth with new ones. That makes them particularly good at catching prey. However, these top marine predators could lose their literal edge as ocean acidification damages their teeth and makes it harder to keep and replace them, a new study says. https://news.mongabay.com/short-article/2025/08/sharks-risk-losing-their-bite-as-oceans-turn-acidic-study/ https://news.mongabay.com/short-article/2025/08/sharks-risk-losing-their-bite-as-oceans-turn-acidic-study/ These tiny organisms can directly pump 'stubborn' carbon into the ocean, where it may persist for centuries. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1095597 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1095597 Places where fishing is restricted and important predators like lobsters and sheephead are protected saw stronger kelp regrowth. This suggests that MPAs can support ecosystem resilience to climate events like marine heatwaves https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1094730 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1094730 How to spot them - Bursts of Speed for rapid escapes, but at a cost - Why such long tails? - Long pregnancy: few pups - Declining by 79% over 39 years - What can be done? https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/marine-life/spotted-eagle-ray.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/marine-life/spotted-eagle-ray.html When you're planning deep dives, understanding what happens to your body and equipment as you descend becomes crucial https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/deep-diving.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/deep-diving.html Study analysed baleen whale and dolphin interactions and finds that a quarter of these interactions can be defined as a mutual. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1094355 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1094355 The historic Marine Protected Area (MPA) designation, announced by the Scottish government, will now make it a criminal offence to remove items from the sites. Although divers have already taken most things that could be removed https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c776ng7xe02o https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c776ng7xe02o When's the best time of year to dive Mexico? What sealife will you see and when: humpback whales, hammerheads, sealions, manta rays... https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/when-dive-mexico-best-time.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/when-dive-mexico-best-time.html The Ocean Film Festival World Tour is bringing a new collection of thrilling ocean-themed films to venues around the world. Email news@scubatravel.co.uk to enter the draw https://www.oceanfilmfestival.co.uk/tickets https://www.oceanfilmfestival.co.uk/tickets Mozambique is a top diving destination in 2025 due to its combination of megafauna encounters (whale sharks, manta rays, humpback whales), untouched coral reefs, and abundance of pristine marine protected areas, all set along a warm, 2,500 km Indian Ocean coastline with little diving crowding and a strong focus on conservation. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/africa/diving-mozambique.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/africa/diving-mozambique.html Large ocean animals can be protected throughout much of their lifecycle by huge Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), new research shows. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1093499 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1093499 Ocean acidification is becoming a relentless killer threatening coral reef ecosystems. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1092602 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1092602 New research into the energy use of humpback whales during their annual migrations has found they lose 11,000kg of blubber - which is equivalent to the energy obtained after feeding on 57,000 kg of Antarctic krill - highlighting the importance of managing their krill-rich feeding grounds. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1092610 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1092610 Scuba diving supports up to 124,000 jobs across 170 countries, and divers prefer to dive in marine reserves, offering an economic incentive for marine conservation. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-diving-20-billion-year.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-diving-20-billion-year.html The 300th issue of SCUBA News is now up - the 25 anniversary edition of the longest running diving e-newsletter in the world! And we're giving away free tickets to the Ocean Film Festival to a lucky subscriber https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-news300.html?rss https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/scuba-news300.html?rss 1. They mate for life. 2. They are amongst the largest butterflyfish 3. Eat day and night 4. Clever strategists against potential predators https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/5-fascinating-facts-about-masked-butterflyfish.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/5-fascinating-facts-about-masked-butterflyfish.html Before my first liveaboard, I wasn't sure what to expect. I couldn't wait to be at sea, but I was concerned - would I be good enough? Would I feel trapped on a boat? Would it be a once-in-a-lifetime experience or something I'd never do again? As it turned out, those diving days at sea didn't just change the way I dive. They changed the way I live. Here are ten things I learned on my first liveaboard trip - from practical tips to life-altering surprises. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/10-things-i-learned-on-my-first-liveaboard-trip.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/10-things-i-learned-on-my-first-liveaboard-trip.html Mexico is a top destination for August, as the conditions are excellent in the Sea of Cortez. In the Southern hemisphere, Sipadan in Malaysia, French Polynesia and Bali offer world class diving. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/august-top-diving-destinations.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/august-top-diving-destinations.html Turtles, sea horses, the famous Cedar Pride wreck and even an underwater military museum. How to choose a dive centre in Jordan. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/redsea/jordan-diving.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/redsea/jordan-diving.html Becoming a scuba diving instructor was never part of my plan. But diving has a way of changing plans. One moment you are nervously adjusting your gear before a training dive, and the next you are exploring coral gardens in another corner of the world. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/from-fear-to-freedom-how-becoming-a-dive-instructor-changed-my-life.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/from-fear-to-freedom-how-becoming-a-dive-instructor-changed-my-life.html Could humpback whales be trying to communicate with us using bubble rings? https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/are-humpback-whales-trying-to-communicate-with-humans.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/are-humpback-whales-trying-to-communicate-with-humans.html Divers are some of the first to notice when something is out of balance in the ocean. Invasive species that spread rapidly and disrupt ecosystems are a growing threat to ocean health but divers around the world are stepping up to help. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/fighting-back-divers-underwater-invasive-species.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/fighting-back-divers-underwater-invasive-species.html Recognising that conservation is key to ensuring the future of Saudi underwater tourism, numerous environmental studies and initiatives have been launched. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/world-oceans-day-saudi-sustainable-marine-tourism.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/world-oceans-day-saudi-sustainable-marine-tourism.html The invasive lionfish has reached a new northern record in the Mediterranean Sea. Scuba divers captured two specimens (Pterois cf. miles) in the Croatian Adriatic, off the islands of Brac and Solta. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/divers-find-lionfish-in-croatia-marking-alarming-northward-invasion.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/divers-find-lionfish-in-croatia-marking-alarming-northward-invasion.html The Masked Butterflyfish is a photographer's dream and a must-see for Red Sea divers. Couples form a faithful pair that remains together for life. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/maskedbfly.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/maskedbfly.html Green Fins initiative in Jordan achieves 51% reduction in threats to Aqaba Marine Reserve https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/aqabas-dive-operators-environment.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/aqabas-dive-operators-environment.html If you've ticked off the big names like the Red Sea, the Great Barrier Reef, or the Maldives, you might be wondering where to dive next. If you have a good sense of adventure and love of the road less travelled, the world is full of lesser-known dive spots. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/10-hidden-dive-destinations-adventurous-travellers.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/10-hidden-dive-destinations-adventurous-travellers.html Comprehensive review of the R5 Mark II Canon's true flagship camera, by renowned underwater photographer Nirupam Nigam. Faster readout speeds, enhanced autofocus system, video recordings of 8K/60p RAW... https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/canon-eos-r5-mark-ii-review-substantial-upgrades-canons-flagship-camera.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/canon-eos-r5-mark-ii-review-substantial-upgrades-canons-flagship-camera.html Easter Island - pristine diving in stunningly clear waters. Journey to one of the world's most isolated destinations and experience its less-explored side. Easter Island offers incredible visibility, diverse marine life and the intriguing allure of its submerged history. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/americas/easter-island-diving-chile.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/americas/easter-island-diving-chile.html What's one of the ocean's most important ecosystems - While they might not seem as photogenic as a coral wall or as captivating as a sunlit kelp forest, seagrass beds are essential for supporting marine life, protecting coastlines, and even fighting climate change. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/seagrass-meadows-matter.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/seagrass-meadows-matter.html Reef-World workshop highlights Indonesia's position as a global leader in Marine Protected Area diving, with 70% of dives occurring within MPAs. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/indonesias-marine-tourism-industry.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/indonesias-marine-tourism-industry.html Here's a look at some of the best destinations for family dive trips, offering world-class diving and activities for every family member https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/multigenerational-family-dive-trips-made-easy-where-to-go-and-why.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/multigenerational-family-dive-trips-made-easy-where-to-go-and-why.html The most famous dive site in the British Virgin Islands and other fantastic wrecks and reefs. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/americas/british-virgin-islands-diving.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/americas/british-virgin-islands-diving.html A new area for diving with many wrecks, caves and caverns to be explored https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/europe/albania-diving.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/europe/albania-diving.html Southeast Asia is best known for its spectacular coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity, but it is also home to some fascinating historic shipwrecks. While many divers flock to the region for its vibrant reef systems, the wartime wrecks and sunken relics here offer equally compelling dives. Discover our top 8 https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/8-amazing-wreck-dives-in-southeast-asia.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/8-amazing-wreck-dives-in-southeast-asia.html Seen sea snake in the Red Sea? It's actually a spotted snake eel. Find out why https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/spotted-snake-eel-red-sea.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/spotted-snake-eel-red-sea.html The UK's Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has issued guidelines for choosing a Red Sea liveaboard. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/safely-choosing-red-sea-liveaboard-new-guidelines.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/safely-choosing-red-sea-liveaboard-new-guidelines.html If you love the ocean, making smart seafood choices is one of the easiest ways to help protect it. Overfishing and harmful fishing methods are putting marine life at risk, reducing fish populations, damaging coral reefs, and threatening entire ecosystems. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/from-ocean-plate-easy-ways-choose-sustainable-seafood-why-it-matters.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/from-ocean-plate-easy-ways-choose-sustainable-seafood-why-it-matters.html Over 33 million scuba dives occur annually in marine environments worldwide, with 70% taking place within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). However, only 15% of these MPA dive sites are highly or fully protected. Making all recreational dive sites (representing less than 1% of the global ocean) as highly or fully protected MPAs would improve fish biomass and biodiversity while generating an additional US$2 billion per year in direct tourism revenue. Plus, it would enhance nearby fisheries. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/protect-dive-sites-increase-economic-prosperity-and-protect-biodiversity-new-study.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/protect-dive-sites-increase-economic-prosperity-and-protect-biodiversity-new-study.html A liveaboard dive trip is one of the most immersive ways to go diving. Waking up to the sound of the ocean, exploring world-class sites multiple times a day, and spending evenings under the stars make it an unforgettable adventure. But if you're travelling solo, it can feel a bit daunting at first - especially if you're surrounded by divers who already seem to know each other. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/solo-traveller-11-easy-ways-connect-on-your-first-liveaboard.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/solo-traveller-11-easy-ways-connect-on-your-first-liveaboard.html A brand new liveaboard boat capsized as it was being delivered from the shipyard to Hurghada, according to a report by eSysman SuperYachts. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/another-red-sea-liveaboard-capsizes-this-one-brand-new.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/another-red-sea-liveaboard-capsizes-this-one-brand-new.html The sanctuary will fully protect the remote atolls from fishing and other destructive activities. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/marshall-islands-announces-marine-sanctuary.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/marshall-islands-announces-marine-sanctuary.html?1 Three liveaboards currently visit some of the best wreck diving in the world: SS Thorfin, Pacific Master and MV Odyssey. Between them they offer diving throughout the year, but you need to book early. These often sell out quickly. Discover which one would suit you best. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/liveaboard/truk-lagoon.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/liveaboard/truk-lagoon.html Identifying marine life adds an extra dimension to scuba diving. By familiarising yourself with iconic species like manta rays, nudibranchs, lionfish and reef sharks, you'll not only enhance your dives but also develop a deeper connection to the ocean. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/guide-marine-life-identification-new-divers-beginners.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/guide-marine-life-identification-new-divers-beginners.html Learn about the fabulous wreck dives in Egypt - their history and how to dive them. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/redsea/wreckdive.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/redsea/wreckdive.html Coral reefs, the "rainforests of the sea," support over 25% of marine species and protect coastlines. Learn about their importance, the threats they face, and how we can help preserve them. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/coral-reefs-why-matter-save-them.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/coral-reefs-why-matter-save-them.html Cold water diving opens the door to some of the most extraordinary underwater experiences, from swimming through kelp forests to exploring alongside icebergs. While it requires preparation, the right equipment, and sometimes additional training, the rewards are immense. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/prepare-cold-water-diving.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/prepare-cold-water-diving.html Marine Accident Investigation Branch is preparing a safety bulletin for publication setting out the areas of concern that individuals intending an afloat-based diving holiday in the region should take into account before booking. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/red-sea-dive-boat-accidents https://www.gov.uk/government/news/red-sea-dive-boat-accidents Scientists at the New England Aquarium this week unveiled a new slate of named North Atlantic right whales, an annual tradition that helps researchers in the field identify the critically endangered animals in real time. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/scientists-name-20-north-atlantic-right-whales.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/scientists-name-20-north-atlantic-right-whales.html The Mediterranean is a wreck diver's paradise, offering a blend of history, marine biodiversity, and exceptional diving conditions. From ancient Roman ships to WWII submarines and modern artificial reefs, every wreck has unique features and a story to tell. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/best-wreck-diving-mediterranean.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/best-wreck-diving-mediterranean.html From just GBP 475! Diving at some of the best sites in Egypt #scuba #scubadiving #RedSea https://bit.ly/-50Egypt https://bit.ly/-50Egypt With more liveaboards visiting little dived areas like Farasan Banks https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/redsea/divesaudi.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/redsea/divesaudi.html Cave diving offers a rare combination of adventure, skill and discovery that is worth the preparation and commitment. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/cave-diving-beginners.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/cave-diving-beginners.html Bonaire has protected its reef and all waters surrounding it with a national marine park since 1979. This runs from high water down to 60 m. It's famous for its shore dives which are all helpfully marked by a stone painted yellow https://scubatravel.co.uk/americas/bonaire-diving.html https://scubatravel.co.uk/americas/bonaire-diving.html Southeast Asia offers some of the world's best dive sites for underwater macro photography. From pygmy seahorses and colourful nudibranchs to rare crustaceans and frogfish, these sites are a dream for divers with an eye for the minute details of the underwater world. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/10-great-dive-sites-macro-photography-southeast-asia.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/10-great-dive-sites-macro-photography-southeast-asia.html Red Sea Explorers liveaboard, MV Nouran, caught fire near Daedelus reef. All crew and divers safely evacuated. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/another-red-sea-liveaboard-sinks.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/another-red-sea-liveaboard-sinks.html Contrary to most projections, coral reefs are not inevitably doomed, but have the potential to persist and adapt over time, if carbon emissions are curbed and local stressors are addressed. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/coral-reefs-transform-carbon-curbed.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/coral-reefs-transform-carbon-curbed.html The Fireworks Anemone, scientifically known as Pachycerianthus multiplicatus, is a captivating marine species primarily found in the chilly waters of the North Sea and northeastern Atlantic. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/fireworks-anemone.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/fireworks-anemone.html Fire corals are so called because they sting. When something touches the coral, a coiled thread is ejected, penetrating the skin and injecting venom. The coral is primarily defending itself against fish like parrotfish which would otherwise nibble it. However, the sting is strong enough to injure divers and snorkellers https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/stinging-fire-coral.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/stinging-fire-coral.html Top 10 eco-friendly diving practices - do you follow them all? Eco-friendly diving more than just following a set of rules; it's a mindset to care for the ocean and its inhabitants. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/top-eco-friendly-diving-practices-dive-responsibly.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/top-eco-friendly-diving-practices-dive-responsibly.html The little-visited marine reserve at La Galite islands. Only one dive boat goes there. Read more https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/africa/tunisia-diving.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/africa/tunisia-diving.html When it comes to world-class dive destinations, Palau and Raja Ampat are two names that sit at the top of every diver's wish list. Both destinations boast rich biodiversity, stunning coral reefs, and abundant pelagics. However, choosing between the two can be challenging, as each offers its own unique attractions. In this article, we'll dive into the similarities and differences between Palau and Raja Ampat to help you decide which destination is right for you. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/diving-palau-v-raja-ampat-best.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/diving-palau-v-raja-ampat-best.html Most tea companies have made progress about reducing their plastic content since I first covered this topic. A few even offer tea bags which you can compost at home. But not many. Most use polylactic acid - PLA. This is a plant-based polymer - sometimes referred to as a bioplastic - which is industrially biodegradable but won't degrade in a garden compost heap https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/which-tea-bags-are-free-of-plastic.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/which-tea-bags-are-free-of-plastic.html Cozumel is a dream destination, offering world-class drift dives, stunning coral formations, and diverse marine life. There are a variety of dive sites to explore, ranging from deep walls to intricate coral gardens, and an abundance of reef and pelagic life to encounter. Whether you're navigating the depths of Devil's Throat or gliding along the Santa Rosa Wall, this dive destination is hard to beat. Thinking of a dive trip to Mexico? Here are the top dive sites in Cozumel, the best time to visit, and how to get there. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/cozumel-top-6-dive-sites.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/cozumel-top-6-dive-sites.html With near pristine reefs and fabulous biodiversity - mantas, whale sharks, stunning coral https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/pacific/east-timor-dive.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/pacific/east-timor-dive.html The Maldives offers some of the most incredible diving in the world. For scuba divers and snorkelers alike, it is also one of the best places on Earth to swim with manta rays. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/top-5-places-swim-manta-rays-maldives.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/top-5-places-swim-manta-rays-maldives.html Egypt is a dream destination for many scuba divers, offering a combination of stunning coral reefs, rich Red Sea marine life, and fascinating shipwrecks. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/diving-egypt.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/diving-egypt.html Discover the best dive sites and find answers to frequently asked questions about diving in Fiji. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/pacific/fiji-diving.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/pacific/fiji-diving.html Europe boasts some world class diving, with great visibility and masses of underwater life. Plus, of course, wreck diving galore. According to our readers, these are the ten best dives in Europe. Agree? Disagree? #scubadiving https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/top-10-dives-in-europe-in-2022.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/top-10-dives-in-europe-in-2022.html For dramatic diving, with large sharks and rays, choose the Pacific south side of Panama. For a calmer experience head to the Caribbean - one of the cheapeast places to dive there. https://scubatravel.co.uk/americas/panama-diving.html https://scubatravel.co.uk/americas/panama-diving.html Finland is an excellent diving destination if you're looking for an adventure. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/arctic-wonders-top-places-dive-finland.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/arctic-wonders-top-places-dive-finland.html Celebrating the beauty and diversity of the oceans through dance whilst raising money for satellite turtle tags in Reserva Youth Land Trust's project to save leatherback turtles. Highlighting the interface between science and the arts https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/dance-ocean-reserva-youth-land-trust-leatherback-turtles.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/dance-ocean-reserva-youth-land-trust-leatherback-turtles.html Egypt Divers - 5 star diving center based in Hurghada and Marsa Alam providing all diving programs, snorkeling and water sports activities. Check them out. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/redsea/egypt-divers.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/redsea/egypt-divers.html Malaysia is home to one of the most famous dive sites in the World: Sipadan. But is it the best Malaysia has to offer? https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/malaysia/ https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/malaysia/ 1. They can be dangerous 2. They are poisonous 3. Giant moray eels change sex 4. They hunt with groupers - each benefiting from the other 5. And co-operate with tiny wrasse 6. They are enormous https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/fascinating-fish-facts-giant-moray-eels.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/fascinating-fish-facts-giant-moray-eels.html Discover the unique characteristics of Dendronephthya hemprichi, a distinctive soft coral species. Learn about its rapid reproduction, feeding habits and recent Mediterranean invasion. Explore stunning underwater images and learn the best diving spots to see them. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/marine-life/soft-coral.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/marine-life/soft-coral.html?rss Maybe it should be. It has dive sites that are unlike any others in the world, including in the crack between the American and European continental shelves. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/europe/diving-iceland.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/europe/diving-iceland.html Guide to the best diving in Tanzania: Zanzibar and Mafia Island https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/africa/tanzania-diving-zanzibar.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/africa/tanzania-diving-zanzibar.html Portugal has diving all around its coastline, from the Algarve in the south to Porto in the North. The sea off Portugal is an important pathway for loggerhead and leatherback turtles. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/europe/portugal-diving.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/europe/portugal-diving.html female lays the eggs in the early morning and the eggs hatch in the same day after sunset. Triggerfish guarding eggs may try to bite curious divers and have caused injuries. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/marine-life/redtooth-triggerfish.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/marine-life/redtooth-triggerfish.html Dive through the magnificent kelp, explore wreck alley, see seals, sea lions, sharks, sea otters and other stunning sea life. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/california-diving.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/california-diving.html The Puffer's toxin, tetrodotoxin, is one of the most poisonous natural substances, 100 times as deadly as the venom of the black widow spider https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/puffer.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/puffer.html Although large, they are not normally dangerous to divers. But they are powerful fish with sharp teeth that can inflict serious wounds if provoked. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/giant-moray-eel.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/giant-moray-eel.html The area from St Tropez to the Porquerolles islands is littered with wrecks sitting on sandy bottoms with clear warm water. What more could a confirmed wreck diver ask for? https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/france/francedive.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/france/francedive.html Nicaragua has many quiet dive spots. The Corn Islands in the Caribbean offer a step-back in time to the Caribbean as it used to be. There is freshwater diving in volcanic crater lakes and diving on the rocky reefs of the Pacific coast. Learn more... https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/americas/nicaragua-diving.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/americas/nicaragua-diving.html One of the very best diving areas on the planet - and now with over $2000 off trips! When and where to go for the big stuff. https://scubatravel.co.uk/americas/galapagos-diving.html https://scubatravel.co.uk/americas/galapagos-diving.html Deciphering dolphin communication. With their large brains dolphins have many factors in common with humans. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/dolphin-talk-2.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/dolphin-talk-2.html First described as recently as 2018, instead of sitting on sand or coral like most gobies, Hoesei's Goby hovers above the bottom. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/hosai-goby-koumansetta-hoesei.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/hosai-goby-koumansetta-hoesei.html Where is the best diving in Turkey? What you need to know before you go. https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/europe/turkey-diving.html https://www.scubatravel.co.uk/europe/turkey-diving.html How can scuba divers, snorkellers and swimmers avoide the sunscreen nasties which harm corals and other sea life. Which sunscreens are safe for reefs? https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/sunscreens-safe-sea-life-coral.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/sunscreens-safe-sea-life-coral.html From Is scuba diving safe? to How can I minimise my environmental impact when scuba diving? https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/frequently-asked-questions-scuba-diving.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/frequently-asked-questions-scuba-diving.html From its incredible powers of mimicry even though colour blind, to employing the same techniques as dogs and chimps to exert self-control. https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/fascinating-facts-about-the-clever-cuttlefish.html https://news.scubatravel.co.uk/fascinating-facts-about-the-clever-cuttlefish.html Tiger sharks, great hammerheads, bull sharks and oceanic whitetips migrate through the islands' waters in winter. Bimini island, for example, is a good place to see the hammerheads.Oceanic whitetips prefer Southern Cat island and the West End of Grand Bahama is famous for tiger sharks. https://scubatravel.co.uk/americas/bahamas-diving.html https://scubatravel.co.uk/americas/bahamas-diving.html