News
Book now for a Mediterranean Summer with Regaldive
Divers looking for a summer getaway should take a look at the Mediterranean islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino. The Maltese Islands offer award-winning diving in crystal clear, warm waters and can be reached in a short, three hour daily flight from the UK. Add to this incredible underwater topography and multiple ship, plane and submarine wrecks, and it’s easy to see why these charming and sun-drenched islands are such a hotspot for British divers.
The sheer diversity of sites and their suitability for divers of different experience levels has secured the Maltese Islands’ reputation as a great all-round diving destination. Calm, sheltered bays, the exceptional water clarity and easy shore access provide ideal conditions for beginners. Tunnels, caves and wrecks satisfy experienced divers seeking adventure, deep or technical diving challenges.
Cosmopolitan Malta is the island of choice if you’re serious about your metal. The marine-protected Northern area of Cirkewwa is home to many popular sites including the artificial wrecks of the 40m tugboat Rozi, one of the most photographed subjects on Malta, and the P29 Patrol Boat, both of which can be accessed from the shore. Also at Cirkewwa is the other-worldly 13-tonne statue of Jesus Christ, which was relocated there from St Paul’s in 2000 to attract more divers.
Malta’s past as a disputed land has led to an abundance of historical sights and below water the island is equally rich. The WWII wreck of the Bristol Blenheim Bomber is one of only five known wrecks of its kind and its intact engine and wings at 42m attract experienced divers. The forward section of the Tribal Class British Destroyer HMS Maori offers a shallower dive at 11-15m and a chance for those with less experience to explore a unique slice of wartime history.
Regaldive offers short breaks and longer holidays at the Sands Apartments in St. Paul’s Bay, Malta. The apartments are ideal for travelling divers and are located just 100 metres from the dive centre. A seven night holiday costs from £284 per person to include flights, transfers and seven nights’ room only accommodation. Dive packs start from just £69 per person for seven days unlimited shore diving.
The smaller sister island of Gozo offers a relaxed pace and spectacular scenery on land and below water. Situated just 25 minutes by ferry from Malta, Gozo offers a couple of artificial reefs but its real attractions are an amazing array of natural underwater attractions including dramatic tunnels, caves and swim-throughs to explore. The Blue Hole, located in front of the much-photographed Azure Window at Dwerja Point, is Gozo’s most famous dive site and reportedly a favourite of Jacques Cousteau. Further north, the stunning Cathedral Cave can be entered at just 5m and leads to a huge domed vault, where divers can surface and practice their singing voice as the acoustics are amazing!
Also in the north, Reqqa Point can be hard to access due to surge, but the reward is a number of exciting dives with something for all levels of diver. The edge of the reef offers a breathtaking view out into the blue that is a popular spot for underwater photographers wanting to practice their silhouette shots. In the south, and directly in front of the dive centre, Xlendi Cave and Tunnel offers an ideal introduction to cave diving with the tunnel at 2-6m, and a maximum depth of 12m.
Seven nights’ at St Patricks Hotel on the pretty seafront at Xlendi, Gozo cost from £407 per person to include flights, transfers and B&B accommodation. Regaldive guests can choose from unlimited, unguided diving (subject to experience) at £89 per person for six days, or add boat or guided dives.
For further information or to book, visit www.regaldive.co.uk or call +44 (0)1353 659999.
Gear News
Introducing the TR-80, IR-50 and CS-30 Regulators from DYNAMICNORD
Whether you are a beginner or a professional diver – with the three new main regulators from DYNAMICNORD, everyone will find their favourite regulator. They all look super stylish.
Excellent performance with the TR-80
Quality and performance are the be-all and end-all for regulators. It is not for nothing that the TR stands for Tec Reg. The innovative design of the TR-80 guarantees absolute reliability – even in ice-cold waters.
Perfect breathing effort at 0.8 J/l / certified for diving in waters below 10 degrees / structural design made of solid brass for best cold protection / membrane-compensated design with dry seal of the first stage / reduced exhalation effort thanks to optimized exhalation membrane and bubble deflector / adjustable Venturi (dive/predive) and adjustment knob for individual inhalation comfort / innovative design of the front cover prevents free-flow in strong currents or when diving with scooters / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 2 HP and 4 LP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
Amazing underwater adventures with the IR-50
The IR-50 is the top regulator for advanced and experienced divers. Natural breathing is the essence of this regulator.
Ideal breathing effort at 0.8 J/l /certified for diving in waters below 10 degrees / compensated membrane / adjustable venturi (dive/predive) and adjustment knob for individual inhalation comfort/ outlet valve and deflector for minimum exhalation effort and reduction of bubbles on the face / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 2 HP and 4 NP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
The Workhorse – our CS-30
For diving centres and diving beginners – the workhorse stands for strong construction, reliability and robustness. Perfect for your training.
Optimal breathing effort at 0.8 J/l /recommended for diving in waters above 10 degrees / non-compensated piston / adjustable venturi (dive/predive) / outlet valve and deflector for minimum exhalation effort and reduction of bubbles on the face / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 1 HP and 3 NP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
Octopus OP-30
The OP-30 is the ideal addition to all DYNAMICNORD regulators. It is identical in construction to the CS-30.
The TR-80, IR-50, CS-30 (DIN & INT) regulators and the Octopus OP-30 are available from DYNAMICNORD dealers and in the online store.
DYNAMICNORD – Your Outdoor Companion.
Marine Life & Conservation
Paul Watson Released as Denmark Blocks Japan’s Extradition Bid
Renowned anti-whaling activist Paul Watson has been released from custody in Greenland after spending five months in detention. Denmark’s Justice Ministry rejected Japan’s request for his extradition, citing insufficient guarantees that his time already served in custody would be credited against any potential sentence.
The 74-year-old Canadian-American was arrested on July 21 in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, when his ship docked to refuel. His arrest was based on a 2012 Japanese warrant related to a 2010 encounter in Antarctic waters. Japan alleged Watson obstructed operations and caused damage to a whaling research ship during efforts to disrupt illegal whaling. Watson has consistently denied these claims, maintaining his commitment to marine conservation.
Denmark, which oversees extradition matters for Greenland, concluded that while the legal conditions for extradition were met, the lack of assurances from Japan regarding time-served credit made extradition untenable.
In a video shared by his foundation, Watson expressed gratitude and relief, saying, “After five months, it’s good to be out… and good to know they’re not sending me to Japan.” He added that the most difficult part of his time in custody was being separated from his two young sons.
Watson is a pioneering figure in marine conservation, known for founding the Captain Paul Watson Foundation in 2022 after decades of activism with the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. His bold efforts to defend marine life have earned him widespread support, including from celebrities and conservationists. His work has also been featured in the acclaimed reality TV series Whale Wars.
Watson’s lawyer, Jonas Christoffersen, praised the decision, stating, “We are happy and relieved that Paul Watson is now free.” He added that Watson is eager to reunite with his family and continue his vital work.
The arrest occurred while Watson’s vessel, the M/Y John Paul DeJoria, was en route to the North Pacific with a team of 26 volunteers to intercept a Japanese whaling ship. His foundation described the arrest as politically motivated and emphasized that Watson’s actions were focused on ending illegal whaling practices.
Japan resumed commercial whaling in 2019 after leaving the International Whaling Commission, asserting that whale meat is a cultural tradition. Conservationists, however, continue to challenge these practices, highlighting their impact on marine ecosystems.
Despite the challenges, Watson remains steadfast in his mission to protect marine life and bring attention to whaling practices. His dedication to ocean conservation has made him a globally respected advocate for the environment.
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