Scuba Diving Adventures

Cave diving in Thailand

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 05:26:00 +0000

Cave diving is exciting, especially in Thailand, though it requires both adequate training, experience, and not being afraid of getting your wetsuit dirty, as another scuba diving website says. The following couple of beautiful pictures shows cave diving in Thailand in Pattaya:

You might experience dives like those with Aquanauts Dive Centre, PADI 5-Star Career Development Center #6246. 437/17 Moo 9, Soi 6/Beach Rd.; Pattaya, Chonburi 20150 Thailand Ph: 66-(0)38-361-724

women diving

Cave diving, Cyprus

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 23:02:00 +0000

North Cyprus scuba diving

Scuba Diving in Cyprus

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Sat, 25 Sep 2010 16:00:00 +0000

An Advanced Diver - Scuba diving in Ayia Napa, Protaras, Penera. What makes Cyprus an ideal diving spot is excellent visibility of the year round warm waters.

The location of Ayia Napa on the map of Cyprus

Zenobia:

The wreck of the Swedish ferry Zenobia, rated as one of the top 10 best wrecks in the world and the must to see while diving in Cyprus.

Viking Diver Center in Larnaca offers daily trips to Zenobia wreck and safari to exclusive Cyprus dive sites. P.O.BOX 42589 6500 LARNACA CYPRUS TEL/FAX 00357-24644676.

Suunto D9 Diving Computer - Standard for Dive Computers

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 18:18:00 +0000

Many divers who are professional, military, recreational or even competitive freedivers that take the quality, functionality and material of their diving computer very seriously have considered the Suunto D9 to be an invaluable diving aid. The thing that distinguishes this device from all the other dive computers is that not only does its state of the art features fit perfectly for all sorts of diving but they are committed to promoting diving safety in all areas of the dive.

The Suunto D9 diving computer will be the best device to take when you are diving in a place for the first time as its features will prove more than useful. With it you will be able to know exactly how much time you have left to stay underwater, how deep you are, and how fast you can ascend when surfacing. It can all be made possible with key features like its air integration compass, and depth, time and decompression data. Given a range of dive computers, these features alone will maximize your dive performance and be a key factor in your diving safety as well.

Features of the Suunto D9

The Suunto D9 diving computer contains features that will amaze both veteran and novice divers and even people who have never been diving or seen dive computers before. Its main features which are most talked about include:

Digital Compass

Suunto D9 was the first dive computer to integrate a digital compass. This digital compass contains a graphical compass rose which shows the general direction. It also shows the exact bearing in a numerical display and the headings can be stored in the Suunto D9s memory for later use. Most people assume this compass to be superior to the traditional compass as it can be used on land as well.

Air Integration (Optional Wireless Transmitter)

This feature allows the diver to monitor vital information like air consumption data and tank pressure from the dive computer. The remaining tank pressure is displayed both numerically and graphically, and an estimation of the remaining air supply throughout the entire dive is given by this dive computer which is useful as it gives divers a good idea of how much time they have left to stay underwater. It is a very handy feature, particularly for technical divers and dive instructors. The real time for air supply can be stored in the memory as well.

Gas Mixes and the Deep Stop Option

With this feature, the diver is able to switch gases during the dive as the Suunto D9 diving computer can use up to three different gas mixes containing 21-100% oxygen. Decompression calculations are based on the Suunto Deep Stop RGBM (Reduced Gradient Bubble Model) where iterative deep stops are provided as an alternative to safety stops, this adds extra safety to your dive. The maximum depth display is set to about 200m (660ft) and this may best suit deep and technical divers.

Integrated Dive Logbook

The built-in dive logbook provides a graphical data profile where real time water temperature and tank pressure data can be analyzed on the dive computer. Since the Suunto D9 comes with PC software and is USB compatible, this dive log also enables you to store extra information about the dive site, conditions, equipments, notes, and photos from the dive.

A Few Weaknesses:

According to some reviews on Suunto D9 dive computers, the air integration optional wireless transmitter can be a problem only if you forget to activate it before the dive. If you are not equipped with a spare SPG when this happens then you may need to return to the surface to activate it. Another disadvantage, more of an inconvenience for some people, is that even though the Suunto D9 has PC software and USB compatible, it doesnt have software available for Mac.

Conclusion

Without a doubt, the Suunto D9 diving computer is the golden standard for all dive computers and is the forerunner dive computers in the future. It is jam packed with everything needed in a dive computer from its digital compass that can be used anywhere to its stylish appearance suitable for any occasion. Containing air, nitrox, and gauge modes, along with its black elomaster and luxury titanium straps and Suunto Dive 2.0 software, you will not be disappointed in this range of dive computers.

About the author: Ed J Price has had a keen interest in the field of Scuba Diving for many years. For further information, particularly on Dive Computers and the Suunto D9 Diving Computer, check his online resource site now.

Complete List Of Grand Cayman Dive Sites

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Sat, 17 Jul 2010 19:56:00 +0000

For scuba divers going to Cayman Islands, here goes complete list of all known divesites off Grand Cayman:

Martin's Wall
Pete's Ravine
Bear's Claw
Ghost Mountain
Hole-in-the-Wall
Cliff Hanger
Stingray City
Blue Pinnacles
Valley of the Rays
Josh's Canyon
Tarpon Alley
Main Street
Channels End Reef
Eagle Ray Pass
Lemon Drop-off
Lemon Reef
No Name Drop-off
Grand Canyon
Gail's Mountain
Chinese Wall
McCurley's Drop-off
Babylon
Julie's Wall
Mermaid's Pt. Drop-off
Mermaid's Pt. Reef
Anchor Point Drop-off
Little Bluff Reef
Skinny Palm Drop-off
Skinny Palm Tree Reef
Split Rock
Omega Reef)
Lost Lens
Old #12
Valley of the Dolls
Black Rock
Black Rock Drop-off
Photographic Reef
Chub Hole
Cabana Wall
Turtle Pass
Barrel Sponge Wall
Lost Valley
Snapper Hole
Methusalem Wreck
Cinderella's Castle
Ridge Field Reef
Shark Alley
Old Wreck Head
Rumarci Wall
Parrotfish Caverns
Ridge Field Reef
Shark Alley
Old Wreck Head
Rumarci Wall
Parrotfish Caverns
Lodge Anchor
Catacombs
The Playing Field
The Maze
Lodge Anchor
Catacombs
The Playing Field
The Maze
Eel Garden
Kangaroo Gulch
Last Wally
Three Sisters
River of Sand
Tunnel of Love
High Rock Caves
Cebert's Sand Chute
No Name Corner
Buck Reef
Kelly's Caverns
Maggie's Maze
Ironshore Caves
Tarpon Taproom
Little House
Ironshore Drop-off
Teacher's Caverns
Paul's Wall
Frank Sound Gardens
Frank Sound Caves
The White House
Fantasy Land
Spotts Caves
Pedro Castle
Wahoo Wall
Rutty's Cave
Lighthouse Wall
Japanese Gardens
Oriental Gardens
Chinese Gardens
Tin City
Phantoms Ledge
Bullwinkle's Reef
Phantoms Ledge
Bullwinkle's Reef
Southern Cross
Hole-in-the-Wall
Crossroads
Pallas Wreck Reef
Pallas Pinnacle
Little Pinnacle
Big Pinnacle
Little Table Rock
Three Sisters
Kent's Cave
28 Black Forest
Blackies Hole
South Tarpon Alley
Big Table Rock
Waldo's Reef
Armchair Reef
Eagle Ray Rock
Frank's Reef
Balboa Wreck
Eden Rock
Devil's Grotto
Parrot's Reef
Seaview
Pageant Beach Reef
Soto's Reef
Lobster Pot Reef
Fish Pot Reef
Hammer Head Hole
Shark Hole
Wildlife Reef
C. Club Sand Chute
Lone Star
Royal Palm's Ledge
Jax Qax
Paradise Reef
Oro Verde
Eagle's Nest
Aquarium
Three Trees
Peter's Reef
Marty's Wall
Spanish Anchor
Razorback Reef
Angel Reef
36 Slaughter House Reef
Neptune's Wall
Sand Chute
Mitch Miller Reef
Big Dipper
Little Dipper
Round Rock Cave
Cemetary Reef
Sentinel Rock
Big Tunnel
Little Tunnel
Dragon's Hole
Turtle Farm Mini-Wall
Bonnie's Arch
N.W. Point Drop-Off
Orange Canyon
Cemetary Reef
Hepp's Pipeline
Hepp's Wall
Sponge Point
Spanish Bay Reef
Little Tunnels
School House Reef

Ultimate Diver Challenge in Cozumel has started

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Sat, 17 Jul 2010 12:13:00 +0000

The "Ultimate Diver Challenge" in Cozumel, Mexico, started Saturday, July 17 2010. Recreational scuba divers from across the world are taking part in this popular reality TV show competition to test their skills while overcoming a number of undrwater obstacles and fulfilling underwater tasks requiring excellent diver training and skills. The challenges involve night diving, buoyancy control, search and recovery and rescue skills. Competitors are contesting the grand prize worth $US 2,000 in cash. The UDC-2010 winner will also get a $US 2,500 worth travel package from another of the Ultimate Diver Challenge-2010 sponsors, Wakatobi Dive Resort. The competition between 24 participating diver teams will be filmed and shown on the TV. Attended by crowds of divers of all levels and by curious non-divers too, the Ultimate Dive Challenge in Cozumel strives to be recognized as the most prestigious dive competition of all times.

424 sailors held hostage by Somali pirates currently

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:39:00 +0000

According to Nirobi, Kenia headquartered international organisation "Ecoterra International" that monitors the situation with Somali pirates in the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, up to date there are at least 424 sailors held hostage aboard of 23 seized foreign vessels. The last ship seized by Somali pirates was the tanker "Motivator" that was transporting an ecologically dangerous liquid cargo - antifreeze according to one sources, and lubricants according to others. The source.

Since 2009 the Somali pirates have expanded their attacks on merchant and even passenger vessels from their traditional area of operations in the Gulf of Aden off Somali coast to Indian Ocean, and the piracy attacks were registered as far away from the Gulf of Aden as Seychelles reefs - a popular destination for scuba diving. Moreover, early in April 2009 a group of Somali pirates attacked and seized live-aboard "Indian Ocean Explorer" with 8 member crew, but happily no scuba divers aboard. By happy coincidence the scuba divers had been dropped at the Island Esampshen shortly before the vessel was attacked and highjacked.

The Great Blue Hole

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:30:00 +0000

The Great Blue Hole is located in the center of the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, about sixty miles off the coast of Belize. It has a diameter of about 1,000 feet and a depth of about 408 feet. It is probably the most famous Belize dive destination. It is known throughout the world, especially since it was explored by the legendary Jaques Cousteau. Diving down to a depth between 90 - 100 feet will give you a chance to see huge stalagtites and stalagmites. You can find both scuba diving trips and snorkeling expeditions to the Great Blue Hole. It is recommended for the more experienced diver though.

The list of the world's top 100 dive sites (SCUBA Travel version)

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:29:00 +0000

Yongala, Australia
Thistlegorm, Egyptian Red Sea
Blue Corner Wall, Palau, Micronesia
Barracuda Point, Sipadan Island
Shark and Yolanda Reef, Egyptian Red Sea
Navy Pier, Australia
Manta Ray Night Dive, Kailua Kona, Hawaii
Big Brother, Egyptian Red Sea
Liberty, Bali, Indonesia
Elphinstone Reef, Egyptian Red Sea
Great Blue Hole, Belize
Sodwana bay, South Africa
Sha'ab Rumi South, Sudan
President Coolidge, Vanuatu
Ras Mohammed, Egyptian Red Sea
Grand Central Station, Gizo, Solomon Islands
Darwin Island, Galapagos
Similans, Thailand
Osprey Reef, Coral Sea, Australia
Straits of Tiran, Egyptian Red Sea
Richelieu Rock, Thailand
Bloody bay wall, Little cayman
Great white wall, Tavieuni Fiji
Stingray City, Grand Cayman
The Zenobia, Cyprus
Darwin Arch, Galapagos
Jackson Reef, Egypt
Pedras Secas, Noronha, Brazil
Holmes Reef, Coral Sea, Australia
Puerto Galera, Philippines
Poor Knights, New Zealand
Shark Alley, Grand Cayman
Half Moon Wall, Belize
Protea Banks, South Africa
Wolf Island, Galapogos
Peleliu Express, Palau
Dos Ojos (Los Cenotes), Playa del Carmen, Mexico
The Canyons, Utila, Honduras
Canibal Rock, Komodo, Indonesia
Mnemba Island, Tanzania
Cozumel, Mexico
Blue Hole, Dahab, Egyptian Red Sea
Gili air, Indonesia
The Point, Layang - Layang
Dirty rock, Cocos Island, Costa Rica
Cod Hole, Northern Great Barrier Reef
Rainbow Warrier, New Zealand
The Express, Kuredu, Maldives
Daedelus, Egyptian Red Sea
Garuae Pass, Fakarava Island, French Polynesia
Hilma Hooker, Bonaire
Hanging Garden, Sipadan
Booroo, Isle of Man
Sound Drift, Isle of Man
Chickens Rock, Isle of Man
Toucari Caves, Dominica
Barra Reef, Mozambique
Wreck of the Bahama Mama, New Providence, Bahamas
Blue Hole, Malta
Joel's, PNG
Tiputa Pass, Rangiroa, Polynesia
Seal rocks, NSW, Australia
Diamond Rocks, Kilkee, Ireland
Fujikawa Maru, Truk Lagoon (Chuuk Lagoon)
Sugar Wreck, Grand Bahama IslandThe Umbria
Umbria, Sudan
Fish Rock, Off South West Rocks in NSW, Australia
Office, Mozambique
South Point, Sipadan
Chios island, Greece
Pixie pinnacle and pixie wall, GBR, Australia
Palancanar Bricks, Cozumel, Mexico
Bay of Pigs, Cuba
Tiputa pass, Rangiroa, New Zealand
St Johns, Egypt
Turtle tavern, Sipadan
Hin Muang, Thailand
Great Basses reef, Sri Lanka
Port Royal, Roatan, Honduras
Eye of the Needle, Saba
Tubbataha, Palawan, Philippines
Steel Forest, Nassau Bahamas
alcyone, Cocos Island, Costa Rica
Tormentous, Cozumel, Mexico
Eel garden, Dahab, Egyptian Red Sea
Boulari pass, New-Caledonia
Am chesonet, St Lucia WI
Aliwal Shoal, South Africa
RMS Wreck of the Rhone, British Virgin Islands
Santa Rosa Wall, Cozumel, Mexico
New Dropoff, Palau
Kunkungan, Lambeh Strait, N. Sulawesi, Indonesia
Cenotes, Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Fernando de Noronha, Brasil
Port Jackson, Sydney, Australia
Punta Sur, Cozumel, Mexico
Lake Malawi, East Africa
Japanese Gardens, Koh Tao, Thailand
James Barrie, Scapa Flow
Los testigos islands, Venezuela

Scuba Diving in the Norfolk Islands

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Mon, 24 May 2010 17:06:00 +0000

Located in the Pacific Ocean between New Zealand and Australia are three small islands which are among Australia's external territories. Norfolk is the largest of the three islands contained in this small cluster, which have become known collectively as the Norfolk Islands. The Nepean and Phillip Islands are both located just south of Norfolk and round out those in the triad.

The Norfolk Islands fall within a subtropical climate and have year-round temperatures seldom dropping below 50 or rising above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. These mild, pleasant temperatures make not only the islands but also the ocean surrounding them prime destination spots.

Scuba divers from around the world have found a haven in the waters around the Norfolk Islands. The coral reefs which surround the islands are one of the reasons for their popularity among divers.

The subtropical climate of the islands and the ocean temperatures which remain steadily warm year-round are perfect for the presence of coral reefs. The colorful coral and aquatic residents which call the reefs home are attractive to snorkelers and scuba divers.

The coastline of Norfolk Island is approximately 20 miles long, and consists of rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops rising steeply from the ocean. The coral reefs which surround the islands are one component of the islands' rugged and adventurous geography. The caves, chasms, tunnels and grottos which are found around the islands are yet another appealing draw for divers.

There are more than 30 dive sites which have been scoped and documented around Norfolk Island. A large rocky outcrop called South Rock is one of the deepest among these diving locations. With the sea consistently breaking overhead, beating against the stony base of South Rock, a diver can descend up to 100 feet.

Dive Site: SOUTH ROCK
Depth: 45 metres
Suitable: Strictly for experienced divers
Marine life: Colorful reef fish, pelagic fish, bronze whalers
Getting there: Reached by boat and is about 40 minutes from the Coffs Harbour. Located just south west of Phillip Island.

Another popular spot is Gutters, a steep-walled series of narrow chasms reaching 100 feet or more in depth in some locations. Many of these caves are covered by rock ceilings or bridges which tie them together, creating a labyrinthian complex. There are many areas in Cutters with steep vertical drop-offs.

Little Organ, which is located on the northern side of Norfolk Island, is a huge arching site with numerous horseshoe caves and other swim-through areas scattered throughout the spot. This site has diving waters of up to 65 feet. The dive sites of the central Duncombe Bay region boast submerged platforms of rock, with arches, caves, and deep gullies worth exploration.

Long Nose Reef is yet another common diving location on Norfolk Island. The site can be found at Anson Point, where the reef walls form distinct levels and drops for divers to explore. The shallowest part of Long Nose Reef is approximately 15 feet below the surface and the deepest drop off is about 75 feet.

Nepean Island, located south of Kingston and just a 20-minute boat ride from the main island, is home to extensive caves and tunnels. These swim-through areas can be found in a variety of unusual shapes, formed by rocky and coral extensions from the island.

Phillips Island, which is about four miles south of Norfolk Island, is home to dives of more than 90 feet depths. Its rocky terrain features large boulders and many vertical-walled drop-offs, making it perfect for divers who enjoy the deep and steep dives.

Norfolk Island is located within an area of the Pacific Ocean which has been highly traveled for centuries. The first early settlers were likely of New Zealand origins, arriving in the 14th or 15th century and remaining on the island for several generations.

When the British first arrived in the Norfolk Islands in the 1770s, they found them uninhabited by humans, and later went on to establish two penal colonies on Norfolk Island. The transportation of prisoners to Australia and Norfolk ended in the 1850s, when the internment of prisoners became solely undertaken on Britain's home soil.

Norfolk Island was later settled by Tahitians resettling from the Pitcairn Islands. They were descendants of the native populous and the men of the Bounty. The Bounty is a ship upon which one of the world's most famous mutinies occurred. The descendants of Tahitian women and the Bounty mutineers make up a large portion of the current Norfolk Island population.

The Norfolk Islands' history is filled with suffering, as many of the penal colony residents were terribly mistreated, with punishments that greatly outweighed the crimes they had committed. The penal colony was sometimes referred to as "Hell in Paradise" due to the cruelties which occurred on Norfolk Island. Today, Norfolk Island is simply a paradise, especially for those looking for tranquil and serene diving venues.

By Robert Thomson. Pamper yourself with the nurturing ambiance of lush subtropical gardens offered at the Tintoela Homestead. These Norfolk Island accommodation offer traditional island-style cottages in a beautiful South Pacific retreat. Perfectly located to vacation or celebrate your unique Norfolk Island accommodations.

Dive Site: BLACK BANK, Good walls, small caves with backdoor exits
Marine life: Cat fish
Getting there: Reached by boat and is about 20 minutes away from Island

65 y.o. scuba diver saved by Coast Guard rescuers

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Sun, 23 May 2010 23:43:00 +0000

Associated Press reports: the US Coast Guard rescuers have rescued a scuba diver who suffered a heart attack while diving off the South Carolina coast.

According to the press release by Coast Guard a 65-year-old scuba diver Harry Winkler felt bad while at a depth of 120 feet Saturday afternoon.

A rescue swimmer was dropped over the dive area from a helicopter and swam to the boat Scuba Express. He put the victim in a rescue basket to be lifted to the helicopter.

Who knows the details, comment, please.

First Encounter with Hammer Head Sharks

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Sat, 22 May 2010 14:00:00 +0000

On our forth day of diving in the Galapagos Islands we traveled to a dive site called Gordon's Rock. It is a small volcanic mount that jettisons out of the water. Gordon's Rock is located near the north east corner of Santa Cruz Island.

As we donned our dive equipment we watched the rough seas crashing against the jagged rocks less than thirty feet from our boat wondering to ourselves about the sanity of diving in this untamed area. But, exhilaration and anticipation subdued our concerns.

Once in position, Macarron (our dive master) gave us the signal and we all flipped off of the side of the boat starting our decent near the vertical wall of Gordon's rock.

Our Dive Master Macarron
<--

Into the abyss we went, confident that our experienced guide would keep us out of harms way. The current was about one to two knots and hour. Along with the strong current there were some serious surges as deep as forty to fifty feet.

The swells pulled us upwards about four to five feet and then shoved us back down the same amount a few seconds later. We were being tossed around the seas like leaves in the wind. We tried to relax and navigate as best as possible through the current and surges.

About fifty feet deep we stopped to see a moray eel hiding in a crevice in the rocks. After a few minutes of exploring the underwater wall of Gordon's rock we swam in the open water about fifteen minutes with no structure at all to get our bearings.

Moray Eel Galapagos Islands

It was spooky, especially with a strong current, but we had trust in our guide. Out of the misty haze we saw a dozen or more five to six foot long hammerhead sharks swimming gracefully below us.

They are strange, but beautiful creatures with a fish like body and a T shaped head with eyes on the end of the T. Thoughts raced though my head. It is one thing to watch hammer head sharks on the discovery channel. It is another thing to see them live!

Hammer Head Sharks, Galapagos Islands

Epilogue:

If you are a diver, that is an amazing place to go. Having significant dives under ones belt is important as the currents and cold water are challenging.

The undersea world is prehistoric, wild and unbelievably beautiful. The trip to the Galapagos Islands surpassed every one of our expectations. The memories from this trip last a lifetime. This is easily a five Goose-bump experience.

Article Source: First Encounter with Hammer Head Sharks

Contributed by Chuck Clayton, inexpensive-vacation-ideas.com

Scuba diving pervert

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Sat, 15 May 2010 07:46:00 +0000

POLICE have stepped up patrols at Irvine Beach Park in a bid to snare a notorious scuba-masked flasher.

The pervert, who wears nothing but the rubber mask, a balaclava and a diving top, has been responsible for a string of indecent exposures at the park every summer since 2007.

Cops are determined he doesn’t strike this summer and have introduced additional patrols early in an effort to catch him out or at least deter him from striking again.

A source said: "The Beach Park has become something of a pervert’s paradise in recent years and it’s something the top brass want to clampdown hard on". The rest is HERE.

Undewater Digital Photography Master Classes

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Thu, 13 May 2010 18:50:00 +0000

These two underwater digital photography master classes will be held in Key Largo, Florida, by known underwater photgrapher Stephen Frink this summer:

Master Class 1 - June 12-19, 2010
Master Class 2 - July 31-August 7, 2010

Prerequisite - Minimum 2 years experience with digital SLR housing.

Each course is limited to 14 students only, and will include daily two tank dives and classroom sessions. Participants get unique opportunity to meet guest lecturer, Photoshop guru Eddie Tapp. The courses are optimized for underwater photographers using digital SLR cameras and laptop computers optimized for image processing. Stephen Frink is that very person who can teach you some workflow shortcuts and creative techniques to make you a much more accomplished underwater digital pics shooter. More info here.

Known divers of these days - PADI Instructors

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Tue, 11 May 2010 02:06:00 +0000

The 3 PADI professionals we introduce to the wide public today work for the dive center Northern Colorado Scuba Divers. Many of you must be able to recognize these wonderful people for either having dove with them or having been introduced to the sport of recreational scuba diving under their supervision. They are PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor Alan Felker and PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainers Roger Rogers and Jim Marshall. Who had no chance to dive with them should know that we recommend them highly!


Roger Rogers	Alan Felker

Blue Hole, Guam's most popular dive site, claims another life

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Tue, 04 May 2010 14:13:00 +0000

According to the Micronesian Divers Association, an unidentified woman diver aged 53 died today while scuba diving at Guam's Blue Hole, a natural limestone underwater tunnel attracting over one hundred scuba divers every day. When her failing to resurface had been noticed after the expiry of her estimated ascent time, the active search by the Guam Fire Department rescue divers began and her breathless body was recovered soon and then rushed to the hospital by the Coast Guard. All efforts to revive the victim at the naval base hospital's emergency room failed. No information about the immediate cause of the fatality has been released.

The Guam Blue Hole is located about 100 ft off the western coast of Guam. The sinkhole actually starts at the depth of 60 feet, and then opens up towards the open sea at the depth of 130 feet, though its deepest point lies as deep as 220 ft. The full scope scuba diving at this dive site can be recommended for advanced divers only. As for novice divers, they must limit themselves to visiting the entrance of the hole.

The previous fatal scuba diving accident off Guam took place almost exactly 1 year ago (1 week less), but that one was at another Guam's dive location - outside Apra Harbor. The then victim was 56 y.o. woman.

A 5 May autopsy confirmed the woman died from drowning.

Aruba all-inclusive seaside resorts - good for scuba diving

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Tue, 04 May 2010 11:43:00 +0000

Aruba all inclusive beachfront resorts are some of the loveliest and the best in the world, and there total 26 or 27 of them on the island. Here is a quick reference list that includes some of the most popular that offer scuba diving too:

Allegro Aruba by Occidental
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort
Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino
Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino
Aruba Grand Beach Resort and Casino
Radisson Aruba Resort and Casino
Wyndham Aruba Beach Resort

Besides scuba diving and snorkelling, practically each of them offer fantastic opportunities for othe watersport activities like deep sea fishing,windsurfing, paragliding, jet skiing, yachting etc., many of these free of charge as part of your all inclusive package.

Your experience with Aruba would be incomplete without taking an organized island tour. Some of the places tourist may wish not to miss to visit for sightseeing, include:

Archaeological Museum Aruba
Aruba Historical Museum
Numismatic Museum
Natural bridge
Fontein, Huliba and Guadirikiri caves
California Lighthouse
Boca Prins Cove
Church of Santa Anna in Noord
Willem III Tower
Arikok National Park
Chapel of Alto Vista
De Olde Molen, an old Dutch windmill from Holland
Balashi and Bushiribana gold mill ruins
Hooiberg Mountain
San Nicolas
Oranjestad city
Wilhelmina Park
Fort Zoutman

Win A 6-Day Dive Tour Package To Dive Each Year Free Of Charge!

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Mon, 03 May 2010 21:08:00 +0000

Dive Free For Life! One lucky winner joining Dive Provo for their Anniversary week will be chosen to receive Free Diving for Life! This lifetime award provides the winner with one 6-day dive package per year, every year, for as long as they continue to dive.

To participate, make a reservation with Dive Provo for a 7 night hotel/dive package stay at Comfort Suites for the week of June 5 – 12, 2010. The first 20 divers to make a reservation will receive discounted packages priced at the year 1990 rates, therefore there's a good reason to hurry!

For mail or fax reservations:
Dive Provo Reservation Service, 5601, Powerline Road, Suite 205, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309; Fax 954 351 9740; call 1-800-234-7768 (in the US), 954-351-9771 (from other countries);
To contact Dive Provo directly on the Turks and Caicos Islands:
Dive Provo, PO Box 413, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, telephone 649-946-5040, fax 649-946-5936;

Insider Travel Tips for Mexico: Beyond Cancun

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Mon, 03 May 2010 18:47:00 +0000

The last time I was in Mexico, so was everyone else, or so it seemed. But it is possible to travel to Mexico and enjoy a white sandy beach and some peace and quiet at the same time. All you need to know is where (and, in some cases, when) to go.

When to Go

November to April is widely regarded as the best time to visit. The summer months can get pretty hot. September and October is the peak of hurricane season, which actually stretches from November to June.

Keep in mind that the month of March tends to be very busy on the Mexico beaches with high school and college students on Spring Break. If it is a quiet vacation you want, you will also want to avoid the time around Christmas and Easter, as well as July and August.

Where to Go

There is a lot more to Mexico, and the Yucatan peninsula, than the city of Cancun.

Here are five favorite destinations that offer memorable Mexico vacations. Each of these spots can be reached by flying into Cancun. So if you would like to get a taste of the big city resort and then set out on the less traveled path, you will have the best of both worlds.

1. Isla Mujeres. Just 8 miles across the bay from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a peaceful fishing village with restaurants, shops, and small, charming hotels. In fact, the whole island is cozy: The island itself is less than one mile wide and about five miles long. Downtown Isla Mujeres stretches only about six blocks. The signature turquoise waters and white sandy beaches make for great snorkeling and scuba diving. You can rent kayaks, snorkeling equipment and other gear right on the beach. Other activities to enjoy during your stay at Isla Mujeres include fishing, sailing, and swimming with the dolphins.

2. Riviera Maya stretches down the peninsula from Cancun to Tulum. Here, you will find white sandy beaches and water sports of all kinds, including scuba diving along the Great Maya coral reef, the second largest barrier reef system on the globe. Divers, and snorkelers may be rewarded with the sight of water life ranging from sea anemones, sponges and sea cucumbers to starfish and sea urchins, as well as underwater caverns. Sport fishing is a big business in Riviera Maya, as well. Other activities include golfing, spa going, and eco touring at the various ecological reserves in the region. Two highlights: the Xcaret EcoPark and the Sian Kaan bioshphere.

3. Playa del Carmen. About 40 minutes by car down the coast from Cancun, Playa del Carmen is growing into a bustling resort along Riviera Maya. If you like to shop, you will love Playa del Carmen. Boutiques in the town offer everything from cutting edge European fashions to crafts from local artisans.

During your stay, do not miss Quinto Avenida (Fifth Avenue). It is the heart of Playa. There are no cars, you can stroll the Avenue and be entertained by street performers, including artists and musicians. Playa del Carmen also features premiere dining, as the majority of the restaurants in the Riviera Maya are here, and quite a few of them are on Fifth Avenue itself. The bars and nightclubs are hopping on into the evening, so bring your dancing shoes.

4. XelHa. XelHa is an archeological site and eco park, located between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum. This destination offers adventures for all ages and mesmerizing ecological sights, as well as water sports, such as diving and snorkeling. You can swim with the dolphins here, as well. XelHa is particularly friendly for families and is bound to be an education in both Mayan history and ecology for the entire family.

5. Tulum. Drive a bit further south down the Mayan coast and you will find the small town of Tulum. Tulum is perhaps best known for its Mayan ruins, high on the limestone cliffs. These cliffs offer scenery you will not soon forget of the Caribbean alongside a picture perfect coastline. Tulum is the starting place for eco tourism and adventure travel, so make sure to look into nearby day trips and local attractions.

For an ideal and well rounded vacation, try a few days exploring the gradeur of Riviera Maya, then take some time to shop and play in the bustling Playa Del Carmen and another day or two visiting the Mayan ruins, and taking in the sites, of Tulum.

The word is out about these magnificent resorts, so you will not be able to avoid the crowds completely, but by striking out and having fun off the beaten path, you will find a good balance, and learn a lot about ecology and ancient Mayan culture.

About the author: Jamie Jefferson compiles coupons and Mexico travel deals as well as the latest online coupon codes at www.momscape.com

Oceanic Delta 4 dive regulator featuring Dry Valve Technology (DVT)

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:13:00 +0000

The simplicity and effectiveness of the patented technology featured by Oceanic Delta 4 dive regulators stand up for the common diving objections posed by meager quality regulators. Its dynamic adjustment features allows each diver to ascend and descend through depths without having any problem with his breathing system. At near zero depth, the product is designed to allow you to manually increase the resistance as you reduce ambient pressure, preventing free-flow. The key feature of this product is its balanced valve mechanisms, which allow divers to set the preferred breathing resistance through the dive.
Follow the link to read the entire article in order to learn more about this regulator and the Dry Valve Technology (DVT) the the Oceanic Delta 4 features.

Advice About Keeping Your Dog Safe Near Ocean

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 18:49:00 +0000

Dog safety near water is simply too important for anybody to disregard. Owners need to take it seriously, if they don't wish to run the risk of losing their dog by drowning. Keeping to watch for any dangers while a dog is on the ship or even within the sea is actually practicing puppy security near water. 1 principle for dog owners would be to also have dogs put on a life vest. If you are with your dog on the seaside, look out for grabbing crabs, biting seafood, stinging jellyfish and other ocean animals. If you are not just scuba diving fan, but also a pet lover, then read the rest about your dog's safety at sea and how not to have your vacation spoiled by your dog's incidental drowning.

NAUI written test

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 19:55:00 +0000

NAUI written questionnaire that can be used to test your scuba diving knowledge.

Scuba Diving At the Great Blue Hole In Belize

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 20:31:00 +0000

The Great Blue Hole is a large underwater sinkhole off the coast of Belize. It lies near the center of Lighthouse Reef, a small atoll 100 kilometres (62 mi) from the mainland and Belize City. The hole is circular in shape, over 300 metres (984 ft) across and 125 metres (410 ft) deep. The dive site was explored by the legendary Jaques Cousteau, in whose opinion it was one of the top ten scuba diving sites in the world. Descending down to a depth of approximately 90 - 100 feet allows you watching and taking pics and video of huge fabulous stalagtites and stalagmites. Both scuba diving trips for experienced scuba divers and snorkeling expeditions for non divers are organized by many dive tour operators to the Great Blue Hole. Again, scuba diving there can be recommended for advanced divers only.

Scuba Series HD-322 Camera Mask - the need to hand carry an underwater camera is eliminated!

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 07:24:00 +0000

With Scuba Series HD322, HD323, capable of operating down to the depth of 130ft / 40m under the water surface level, a scuba diver will enjoy the benefit of having their hands free while filming during the entire dive. Scuba Series HD dive masks are unique because they are the only world's dive masks carrying built-in water resistant High Definition 720P digital video camera plus 5.0MP photographs. The goggle lenses made from tempered glass incorporate crosshairs to assist photgrapher line up shots. A built-in LED inside the mask prompts if the device still runs in image mode or has swiched to video mode. You can easily download your footage from the mask to your PC using the enclosed RCA/USB port connection cable. The size of memory can be increased up to 32GB. Cameras of HD Scuba Series are easy to handle - even a kid can use it! Read more about Liquid Image HD Scuba Series cameras and join discussion.

The list of St. Vincent dive sites

noreply@blogger.com (Divemaster) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 07:02:00 +0000

Currently there are 12 dive operators (Bequia Dive Adventures, Dive Bequia, Dive Fantasea, Dive St. Vincent, Grenadines Dive, Indigo Dive, Mustique Water Sports - have good references) and the total of 67 known dive sites at St. Vincent and the Grenadines.