News
Emperor’s latest Covid Hero among many relishing a Red Sea return
The joy of being back under Egypt’s beautiful waters is proving a strong pull for visitors, according to Red Sea specialists Emperor Divers.
Coupled with an increase in both scheduled and low-cost flights to the Egyptian resorts, demand is high for those wanting a return to diving in this popular region.
“It’s been amazing to see divers coming back after such a long time,” said Emperor’s General Manager Luke Atkinson.
“Our guests tell us time and time again how special that first trip back under the surface is.
“Our boats and team are as you remember – and so is that feeling of being submerged in pristine waters.”
Among those who have relished the return of more regular flights to the area is Megumi Gotada – the latest of Emperor Divers’ Covid Heroes.
Covid Heroes was an initiative put in place by Emperor to recognise people who have stepped up during the pandemic by rewarding them with free liveaboard trips in the Maldives and the Red Sea.
Megumi – the second of the eight chosen Heroes to take up her trip – is a music therapist from Berlin who volunteered to work in her hospital’s Covid department and used her skills to help ease the suffering of those afflicted by severe Coronavirus complications.
With travel opportunities increasing, Megumi was able to fly into Hurghada and join up with Emperor Elite for her very well-earned holiday.
Emperor Divers have been running a full service for some time but, with travel restrictions only easing fully in recent days, there are still a few spaces available. The routes of Simply The Best (14/10 departures from €999) and South & St Johns from €949 are proving popular.
Spaces are still available by contacting Emperor at reservations@emperordivers.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.
-
News2 months ago
Iconic SS United States to become the World’s Largest Artificial Reef
-
News3 months ago
Book Review – 52 Assignments: Underwater Photography
-
Gear News3 months ago
DYNAMICNORD – New German diving brand enters the British market
-
News3 months ago
Exploring Cenote El Pit: A Diver’s Dream
-
Gear News3 months ago
Try BARE drysuits (and maybe even win one!) this Friday with Sea & Sea at North West Dive Fest
-
Marine Life & Conservation3 months ago
Book Review: Coral Triangle Cameos
-
Blogs2 months ago
Dive the Egyptian Red Sea this Autumn with Regaldive
-
News3 months ago
2024 Ocean Art Underwater Photo Competition Announced