News
BSAC to run Combined Instructor Event in Tenerife this April
Have you ever considered becoming a BSAC Open Water Instructor or would like to progress to Advanced Instructor, but are unable to commit to courses and exams over several weekends? In that case, a BSAC Combined Instructor event might be just what you are looking for.
Over a one week period there is the opportunity to complete the courses and exams to qualify as either an Open Water Instructor or Advanced Instructor.
While this might sound a daunting task, most people who go on these events find that being able to concentrate on what has been learned on the courses, and consolidate this in a short time period means that they are well prepared when the time comes for the exam. In addition, the instructors on these events are all highly experienced Instructor Trainers, mostly National Instructors, and they are around and available for help and advice up to the start of the exam.
The next Combined Event will be in Tenerife from 17-24 April 2015. Don’t think that doing the exams in warm, clear water makes it easier than at the venues around the UK. The standards remain consistent with those of all the BSAC Instructor courses and exams.
There are two events being run in Tenerife.
For those who are Dive Leaders wanting to become Open Water Instructors there will be an Instructor Foundation Course and Open Water Instructor Course, followed by a “rest” day with informal revision and exam preparation with the instructors. Then there is the Practical Instructor Exam, Theory Instructor Exam and OWI Theory Exam (written test).
Similarly for the Advanced Instructor candidates, after an initial day of kit preparation and a shakedown dive, the Advanced Instructor Course takes place over the next two days, with a “rest” (revision and prep) day before the two day exam.
The price for either event is £750 per person, which includes seven nights’ accommodation in self catering apartments, transfers to the dive centre, all diving, air, weights, and tuition. For the Advanced Instructor candidates this also includes the boat fees. What is not included is flights, food and dive equipment (which may be hired from the centre that is used).
The really great aspect of the Combined Instructor Event is the social side. While it is hard work to complete this in one week, the students and instructors are all staying in the same accommodation and the evening meals and time in the bar often turns into an informal tutorial!
If this sounds like it would be for you, contact the organiser Andy Procter at andy.procter@bsac.com for full course details.
For more information about BSAC visit www.bsac.com.
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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