News
Discover the Whale Sharks of the Galapagos with Dive Worldwide
Join UK specialist Tour Operator Dive Worldwide on Tuesday 17 May for a virtual talk (7.00pm-8.00pm) to learn more about the iconic whale sharks of the Galapagos Islands and the archipelago’s other wildlife. The free-to-attend event, taking place over Zoom, is led by Sofía Green Iturralde from the Galapagos Whale Shark Project and Teresa Nebauer from the Aqua Galapagos, a superb liveaboard that cruises around the islands. The two speakers will reveal more about the extraordinary whale sharks, an elusive species that is best seen in the Galapagos, with attendees having the chance to ask detailed questions.
The Galapagos archipelago sits astride the equator, 960 kilometres west of the Ecuadorian mainland. Having never been connected to another landmass, these volcanic islands have a unique biological identity and one that can be fully appreciated by divers. Due to a constant supply of nutrient rich water brought up from the depths of the Pacific Ocean by the Humboldt Current, there’s much to spot and photograph from manta and eagle rays, hammerhead sharks and, of course, the whale sharks. For those intrigued by these amazing megafauna, Dive Worldwide has introduced a new trip to the islands for 2022, led by Sofía Green Iturralde: Galapagos Whale Shark Expedition
This unique week-long cruise seeks out the Galapagos Islands’ population of whale sharks, led by Sofía Green Iturralde, a marine biologist who has spent time working with the Galapagos Whale Shark Project. During the days, the group visits some of the world’s finest dive spots, from the ‘City of Mantas’ to the Wolf and Darwin Islands, with the highlights including eagle and marble ray encounters, hundreds of sharks and playful dolphin, and of course the mysterious whale sharks, drawn to the region as the Humboldt Current is at its strongest. During the evenings guests will enjoy presentations and talks learning more about the Galapagos’ unique ecosystems, whale sharks and the efforts to protect them.
Price: from £5,895pp sharing, including 7 nights’ accommodation on the Aqua Galapagos liveaboard, 1 night in Guayaquil hotel, all meals, domestic flights, up to 19 dives, guiding and return flights from the UK. Departs 26 September 2022.
For further information visit Dive Worldwide – www.diveworldwide.com or 01962 302087.
Header image: Jonathan Green
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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