News
Introducing Ecoventures
ZuBlu is proud to introduce Ecoventures, a carefully-curated portfolio of sustainable scuba programmes from around the world – putting the power of change in the hands of everyday divers. Through Ecoventures, travellers can help to explore and restore the world’s oceans, whilst creating a vital source of revenue for conservation organisations.
A 2020 survey of the ZuBlu community identified a disconnect between scuba divers’ desire to ‘travel green’, and their ability to actually do so. The survey revealed that 92% of people want to dive more sustainably, but 75% struggled to find the information they needed to make a more informed choice – a so-called ‘eco-gap’ that is slowing sustainability efforts within dive travel. But now, with Ecoventures, ZuBlu will help to bridge this gap – bringing marine conservation programmes and sustainable travellers together.
ZuBlu’s portfolio of Ecoventures includes some of the most sought after dive internships, ocean conservation programmes, and citizen science volunteer opportunities from around the globe. These sustainable projects allow divers to do more during their dive holiday, helping to restore and sustain the oceans as they continue to explore them. Each and every Ecoventure empowers divers to:
- Support the preservation and rehabilitation of marine ecosystems
- Protect threatened species
- Contribute to conservation work or collect vital data
- Immerse themselves in extraordinary landscapes and local communities
- Kick-start a career in marine conservation
- Surround themselves with dive professionals and marine biologists
How it works
Divers can simply browse ZuBlu’s selection of sustainable dive programmes, using the unique search tool to filter by country, date or type of marine life they’d like to encounter. Then, once the perfect project has been found, ZuBlu brings the traveller and their organisation together, introducing both parties so they can plan the trip with ease.
ZuBlu Gives Back
Importantly, Ecoventures will also create a vital source of revenue for the programmes, enabling guests to continue supporting the organisation of their choice – and the environment – every time they travel. Whenever they book another dive trip through ZuBlu, part of the cost is donated back to their chosen programme, creating a new revenue stream not reliant on external funding. In fact, the benefits of Ecoventures reach well beyond a single scuba diving holiday, as divers develop dive skills, expand their knowledge of the marine environment, and continue to support conservation initiatives, after their programme has ended.
ZuBlu is strongly committed to sustainable dive travel and determined to bring together travellers and the best eco-conscious resorts, liveaboards and unique experiences throughout the world. With a hand-picked portfolio of sustainable operators, alongside up-to-date, expert advice on how to travel more sustainably, ZuBlu enables divers to make more informed choices at every stage of their journey.
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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