News
Introducing the new Socorro Aggressor
Aggressor liveaboards have announced the latest addition to their fleet, the stunning Socorro Aggressor. Launching in December 2018, this luxurious new liveaboard will take divers to two premier liveaboard destinations; the Socorro Islands and Guadalupe.
The Socorro Aggressor, a 135ft long yacht, is easily-recognisable with her sleek shape and red exterior. Designed with safety and stability in mind, she has a wide beam and is perfect for reaching the remote Socorro Islands and Guadalupe in comfort. The Socorro Aggressor accommodates 26 guests, with 13 master and deluxe staterooms that all have air conditioning, a porthole view window, hair dryer and en-suite bathroom. Sea crossings can be passed in no time at all with a 32-inch flat screen TV in each stateroom showing around 400 movies, TV shows and documentaries. Computers can even be plugged into the TV screens for photograph and video editing.
The diving at the Socorro Islands and Guadalupe need no introduction, being exceptional for large marine life encounters. Take your pick from great white sharks at Guadalupe to giant manta rays, humpback whales, dolphins and sharks at the Socorro Islands. You can expect to be diving up to 4 times per day at either destination with the Socorro Aggressor, and there are both surface and submersible cage diving options available at Guadalupe.
Filled tanks, weight belts and weights are included in the safaris and rental equipment can be booked in advance. There is a full photography and videography centre onboard, with a camera table and rental photography equipment available. A professional videographer is available to capture your diving memories on DVD.
The air-conditioned salon, bar and library provide plenty of entertainment and relaxation options when not diving. The large sun deck is bound to be a popular choice and the jacuzzi is ideal for post-dive warmth. Presentations on marine life and diving, plus movies and games, feature in the evening entertainment options.
We all know that diving is a hungry game and the Aggressor team have made food a top priority. Guests can enjoy breakfasts cooked to order, followed by buffet lunches, plenty of snacks and varied chef-prepared dinners. Both alcoholic (wine and beer) and non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary, and guests can bring their own liquor.
The Socorro Aggressor will run Socorro Islands 8-day safaris from November to May and Guadalupe 5-day safaris from August to October each year. She launches with the first Socorro Islands safari on Christmas Day 2018. Places can be booked from now onwards.
This article was written by divers and writers of LiveAboard.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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