Miscellaneous Blogs
Jeff Goodman interviews Miss Scuba UK 2017 Hannah Higgins
Scubaverse.com’s Editor-at-Large Jeff Goodman speaks to Hannah Higgins about being Miss Scuba UK 2017 and what the role entails
JG: Hi Hannah! Many congratulations on winning Miss Scuba UK 2017.
HH: Thank you very much!!
JG: Can you tell us a little about the event, what it entails and how it differs from other beauty pageants?
HH: OK, so Miss Scuba is an event which aims to empower ladies from the UK to learn more about marine conservation, not only in allowing them to gain more information, but also from a perspective of gaining contacts, learning ways they can get involved in volunteer/charity/fund raising, and access to professionals in the field. The event also aims to promote more women getting involved in the sport (data from The dive lab – 2014: 72% of core scuba divers and 61% of casual scuba divers are male), and again allowing those who already dive to be ambassadors of safe diving practices, and gain contacts in diving all over the world. Being a pageant it also promotes women developing their inner confidence, so that they can excel in all aspects of the competition interviews, public speaking, photo-shoots (Miss Scuba is a brand ambassador), catwalk stage show, and networking. Above all its an event in which anyone who enjoys scuba diving, or cares about our oceans, can get together and raise some money for charity and have lots of fun!!
JG: I assume being Miss Scuba UK will take up much of your time in the coming 12 months, but what were you doing before this and what would you like to do after?
HH: I’m hoping to get involved in as much as I can as Miss Scuba UK over the coming months!! And I can’t wait to see where the title takes me. Outside Miss Scuba I am a 4th year student Doctor at Sheffield University. I am involved with several medical charities, and a lot of my time is taken up raising money for those, or participating in medical missions (Last year West Africa, and before that, East Africa). I am also involved in two research projects at the moment, one with the Sheffield children’s hospital, and one with the charity Deptherapy (scuba diving’s effects on rehabilitation). After this I hope to finally qualify as a Doctor, and also get some experience in expedition Dive medicine and also Hyperbaric Medicine in an effort to fuse two of my passions into a career!
JG: Did you scuba dive before you became interested in applying for Miss Scuba UK?
HH: I did. I had been traveling with a friend who already dived in Indonesia, and had completed my Open water dive qualification in the Gili islands in Bali. Through the competition though, I have had the opportunity to complete further training sponsored by some amazing dive instructors (hugely helpful, as being a student I would have had to wait until I qualified to be able to afford the courses if not) and now I am only two specialties away from achieving my master diver!
JG: What is it you enjoy about diving?
HH: Alongside being a Student Doctor, I also work nights as a mental health care worker, and then with everything else I enjoy being a part of, my life is BUSY (for the last 4 years I have run my timetable from an excel spreadsheet… eek!) but every time I sink my head below the water for a dive its like pure silence, relaxation and amazement for nearly an hour. No technology, no conversations, no time to think about work (too many amazing things to see), and nothing, not even a massage gives that level of relaxation! It’s like therapy for your soul! I’m also a huge animal lover, and just witnessing the abundance of marine life in all its different forms is just mind blowing every single time.
JG: Do you have any dislikes or issues you would like to change about diving?
HH: I’m always torn between arguing that a rattle should be part of the standard kit for all new divers from a safety perspective. I have known a few people get into difficulty and it take 30 seconds for the dive master to turn round. A rattle would make it more instant and maybe give the new diver more confidence. – I’m caveating this with it being made known to the people wearing rattles that they are to be used only when a real issue presents itself; no one wants their peaceful dive disturbed constantly if there isn’t a valid reason for using one!
JG: Can you tell me how Miss Scuba UK is involved with marine conservation, and are there any projects you are directly involved with or would like to take part in?
HH: Every year Miss Scuba UK organizes beach cleans and underwater cleanups for the contestants (these have taken place in the UK, Egypt, Cyprus, and Fuerteventura so far). They also organize talks from professionals on current issues affecting the UK, and encourage the girls involved to seek out the issues they really identify with and get involved in any way they can.
I have personally been involved with beach cleanups (UK, Egypt, Cyprus, Fuerteventura, Malaysia, Vietnam), volunteering in turtle hatcheries (Bali, Malaysia), running a campaign to generate towels to donate to the RSPCA seal sanctuary and rescue center, underwater dive cleanups, educational programs to educate local businesses on the ‘good fish guide’ and coral rejuvenation projects in Indonesia.
JG: Did you have any concerns about the marine environment and conservation before entering Miss Scuba UK?
HH: I did. It started when I watched Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s Fish Fight Campaign in 2010. After that I started being much more conscious about which fish I chose to eat and buy. But It wasn’t until I started scuba diving that I saw with my own eyes the terrible damage we are doing to our oceans, and felt a desperation to do what I could to make marine conservation a much bigger part of my life.
JG: Is Miss Scuba UK involved at all with charity work or other institutions?
HH: Miss Scuba UK has raised thousands for their partner charity Deptherapy (I was sponsored to completed the ‘tough mudder’ obstacle course as part of my contribution), a charity that seeks to rehabilitate veterans through scuba diving. This year the event also raised money for the bucket list for former contestant of MSUK who has been sadly diagnosed with Motor Neuron disease.
JG: Would you recommend scuba diving to people who have not really thought of taking it up before?
HH: YES!! Scuba diving is an incredible way to stay fit, learn a new skill (great for young people wanting interesting stand out activities for their CV), meet some incredibly interesting new people, challenge yourself, and ultimately see the 80% of the planet you cant see from the surface! Diving is great for all ages (I’ve just encouraged my parents to start diving in their 50’s, and my younger brother in his teens), its great for people to build their confidence in the water, and great for couples to have an activity they can enjoy together. It’s a great sport for parents and children to do together, while giving their children a much greater awareness of the world around them.
JG: We at Scubaverse look forward to following you throughout this coming year and hearing updates on your travels and adventures.
HH: Thank you so much! I’ll keep you updated!
To find out more about Miss Scuba UK visit www.missscubaunitedkingdom.com.
Welcome to Day 5 of Scubaverse.com’s week-long Christmas Gift Guide!
Struggling to find the perfect gift for that special scuba diver in your life? Read on for Team Scubaverse’s pick of this season’s must-have Christmas gifts.
Every day this week, we are publishing a special Christmas Gift Guide full of different gift ideas that are all ideal for divers, so you’re sure to find something that’s perfect. Take a look at today’s selection below…
SlipIns DiveSkins
Team@slipins.com / www.slipins.com / SlipIns Facebook / SlipIns Instagram / SlipIns Pinterest
DiveSkins are perfect for scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, paddling, surfing, and all water sports. It shows up beautifully in pictures under water.
This tight-fitting, tailored lycra suit offers maximum comfort. stretchy, breathable, fast-drying fabric with the world’s best sun and stinger protection.
SlipIns are:
*Ultimate 50+ UPF sun protection
*Abrasion protection.
*Quick dry, breathable, soft fabric
*The ultimate stinging critter protection
Save 10% on your order if you mention you saw this ad in Scubaverse in your order note!
SAVE YOUR SKIN…WEAR OUR SKINS
Team@slipins.com / www.slipins.com / SlipIns Facebook / SlipIns Instagram / SlipIns Pinterest
Diving Books from Miflex Hoses
sales@miflexhoses.co.uk / www.miflexhoseshop.co.uk / miflexhoseshop.co.uk/acatalog/Diving-Books.html / Miflex Hoses on Facebook
We stock a great range of Diving & Underground book titles, ideal to add to any order or simply buy as a gift for a friend.
Titles we have include:
Shipwrecks of the Dover Straits, Adventures Underground, Pioneers Beneath the Peak, Dive Truk Lagoon, Underwater Potholer, Images Below & many more.
From Authors including:
Stefan Panis, Martyn Farr, Duncan Price, Ron Young, Rod Macdonald, Chris Howes
Visit our website for more details.
sales@miflexhoses.co.uk / www.miflexhoseshop.co.uk / miflexhoseshop.co.uk/acatalog/Diving-Books.html / Miflex Hoses on Facebook
OrcaTorch D710 Dive Light – now available in pink!
sales@sea-sea.com / www.orcatorch.com / OrcaTorch on Facebook / OrcaTorch on X / OrcaTorch on YouTube
Already available in Black, Green, Red and Blue, the D710 Dive Light from Orcatorch is now available in Pink too.
Whether you’re a recreational or a professional diver, you’ll find the OrcaTorch D710 dive light useful in your underwater activities.
With max 3,000 lumens, the D710 is one of the strongest torches in its class. You also have plenty of brightness settings to choose from if you prefer less power.
It runs on one OrcaTorch 21700 5000mAh rechargeable battery with a Type-C charging port, easier for you to charge it anywhere. Now it offers five exterior colour options: Black, Green, Red, Blue, and Pink, to satisfy your diverse needs.
Featuring:
* Uses Luminous LED, max 3000 lumens
* Uses 1 * 21700 Li-ion battery
* 6° beam angle
* Offers four exterior colour options: Black, Red, Green and Blue
* Easy operation with side titanium alloy push-button switch
* Safe lock function, prevents mis-operation
* Intelligent Over-Heat protection
* Battery indicator
* Water pressure resistant construction, depth rated to 150 meters
* Reverse polarity protection, to protect from improper battery installation
* Over-discharge protection function
* Constructed from high-strength A6061-T6 aluminum
* Mil-Spec Type III hard anodized finish for durability and corrosion resistance
* Two sides coated toughened glass with high water pressure resistance under deep water
Sea & Sea is the home of OrcaTorch and other leading diving brands in the UK.
sales@sea-sea.com / www.orcatorch.com / OrcaTorch on Facebook / OrcaTorch on X / OrcaTorch on YouTube
Scubapro Luna 2 AI Dive Computer
Scubapro Europe Website / Scubapro USA Website / Scubapro on Facebook / Scubapro on Instagram / Scubapro on YouTube
SCUBAPRO, the world’s premier manufacturer of high-quality scuba diving equipment, introduces its second generation Luna 2.0, an easy-to-read, intuitive dive computer loaded with easy-to-use features and available in two versions, the Luna 2.0 and Luna 2.0 AI with wireless air integration.
Designed for new and casual recreational divers, the low-profile Luna 2.0 sits comfortably on the wrist. Its oil-filled plastic housing helps ensure reliable performance to depths of 120 meters. A large widescreen display features a high-contrast black and white matrix-segment LCD with full-sized characters for easy reading in all dive conditions. An intuitive menu and simple two-button interface lets the diver navigate the system with ease, aided by clearly marked screen prompts. The LUNA 2.0 offers two algorithms – Predictive Multi-Gas Bühlmann ZH-L16 ADT MB PMG or ZH-L16 + GF PURE, plus 21-50% nitrox compatibility and three selectable gasses for open circuit diving. Three dive modes are available – Scuba, Apnea and Gauge – to suit a range of diving activities.
The Luna 2.0 AI (air integrated) offers the same easy-to-use features and functions as the standard Luna 2.0 plus adds wireless air integration. This not only enables to easily monitor ythe tank pressure, it also provides true remaining bottom time (RBT) and allows the air consumption to be factored into the decompression calculation. Also available with the Luna 2.0 AI is an optional integrated heart rate monitor that lets visually track the heart rate and skin temperature to help staying in the personal target zone.
Both Luna 2.0 models include personalized dive management functions like PDIS (Profile Dependent Intermediate Stops) which calculates an intermediate stop based on N2 loading, current and previous dives and breathing mixes, and Microbubble levels that give the option to adjust the level of conservatism in the algorithm to match the individual experience level, age and physical conditioning for a more enjoyable dive.
The soft silicone arm strap offers a comfortable fit on the wrist, plus bungee mounts on the corners of the housing allow for alternate attachment methods. A Bluetooth Low Energy interface enables the download of the dive data to any iOS or Android device or PC/Mac (firmware can be user-updated), and the CR2450 battery is rated for up to two years or 300 dives.
Scubapro Europe Website / Scubapro USA Website / Scubapro on Facebook / Scubapro on Instagram / Scubapro on YouTube
35% off Red Sea Liveaboard Scuba Scene in Spring 2025
info@oysterdiving.com / www.oysterdiving.com / Oyster Diving Facebook / Oyster Diving Instagram
Embark on the ultimate diving adventure aboard the Scuba Scene, the luxury liveaboard offering an unforgettable Red Sea experience. Known for its exceptional service, safety, comfort, and world-class dive sites, Scuba Scene is the ideal choice for divers of all levels.
Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs, exotic marine life, and awe-inspiring shipwrecks. From the stunning Ras Mohammed National Park to the famous Thistlegorm wreck, Scuba Scene brings you to the heart of the Red Sea’s best sites. With spacious cabins, gourmet dining, and a dedicated crew that ensures every detail is perfect, this liveaboard guarantees relaxation and adventure in equal measure.
Now is the perfect time to book! Save a massive 35% on any sailing between 3rd March and 28th April 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or taking your first plunge, Scuba Scene promises an experience you’ll cherish forever.
Don’t miss this chance to dive the Red Sea in style and at an incredible price. Book your adventure today!
Tel: 0800 699 0243
info@oysterdiving.com / www.oysterdiving.com / Oyster Diving Facebook / Oyster Diving Instagram
Welcome to Day 4 of Scubaverse.com’s week-long Christmas Gift Guide!
Struggling to find the perfect gift for that special scuba diver in your life? Read on for Team Scubaverse’s pick of this season’s must-have Christmas gifts.
Every day this week, we are publishing a special Christmas Gift Guide full of different gift ideas that are all ideal for divers, so you’re sure to find something that’s perfect. Take a look at today’s selection below…
Thalassas Ocean-Inspired Apparel
support@thalassas.com / www.thalassas.com / Thalassas Facebook / Thalassas Instagram / Thalassas tiktok
Dive into comfort and style with Thalassas! Featuring T-shirts, hats, leggings and more, each piece is designed to bring the tranquillity and beauty of the sea to your everyday life. Whether you’re lounging by the coast or exploring city streets, our gear has you covered.
Your purchase has a purpose! A portion of every sale supports beach cleanup initiatives and organizations.
HOLIDAY BUNDLE PRICING STARTS NOVEMBER 18th!
This holiday season, we’re offering bundle discounts on our best-selling tees, hats, and leggings! Mix and match to create your perfect set – and enjoy savings when you buy more. It’s the perfect time to stock up on ocean vibes for yourself or the diver in your life.
🌊 Holiday Bundle Discounts: Save More When You Buy More! 🌊
Don’t miss out, these deals won’t last long! FREE SHIPPING on all orders in the USA.
support@thalassas.com / www.thalassas.com / Thalassas Facebook / Thalassas Instagram / Thalassas tiktok
XDEEP Navy Signature Hoodie
info@nautilus.uk / XDEEP on nautilus.uk / www.xdeep.eu / XDEEP on Facebook
The long-awaited XDEEP Signature hoodie is finally available! Apart from being super-trendy, it’s also quality stuff: made in EU of 100% premium cotton with solid japan-made YKK metal zippers.
The main features of this stylish hoodie are the following:
– 100% cotton
– Strong metal zipper
– High-quality print
– Made in EU
Furthermore, all XDEEP hoodies and t-shirts (including fabric) are manufactured in EU using top quality 100% cotton.
The XDEEP Signature Hoodie is perfect for keeping warm and looking trendy at the same time.
To find out more about XDEEP products, visit www.xdeep.eu.
Nautilus are the distributor for XDEEP and other leading dive equipment brands in the UK. Find out more about Nautilus brands at nautilus.uk/our-brands.
info@nautilus.uk / Buy in the UK / www.xdeep.eu / XDEEP on Facebook
Oceanarium Regulator Bags & Octo Holders
sales@miflexhoses.co.uk / www.miflexhoseshop.co.uk / miflexhoseshop.co.uk/acatalog/Oceanarium.html / Miflex Hoses on Facebook
Oceanarium products offer great gifts for all lovers of life underwater, including unique designs of regulator bags, octopus holders, gear tags & cloak towels.
This range brings fun & enjoyment to your dive making your kit distinctive.
Check out the very popular regulator bags available in 6 designs, including the Oceanarium Whaleshark design, as well as the two new designs of Octopus Holders; Pygmy Seahorse & Jellyfish.
Buy a Christmas gift for a friend and make them smile… Diving is Fun!
sales@miflexhoses.co.uk / www.miflexhoseshop.co.uk / miflexhoseshop.co.uk/acatalog/Oceanarium.html / Miflex Hoses on Facebook
Fourth Element Pelagic Dive Watch
info@fourthelement.com / fourthelement.com / Fourth Element Facebook / Fourth Element Instagram / Fourth Element tiktok / Fourth Element YouTube
The Pelagic dive watch from fourth element combines British design with Swiss-craftmanship in a hand-built automatic watch which captures the essence of classic scuba-diving timepieces.
Named after the vast reaches of the open ocean, the Pelagic combines exceptional craftmanship with high-specification engineering. Designed in the UK and hand-built in Switzerland, it is rated to a depth of 500m. The Pelagic features a stunning automatic movement, seen through the sapphire crystal glass case back, powered by a Swiss made precision self-winding movement. This is a watch suitable for the most extreme environments on Planet Earth.
The Pelagic has a brushed stainless-steel case with the choice of 22mm silicone/rubber strap or stainless-steel bracelet. It features a helium escape valve, positioned at 9 o’clock ensuring that this watch is even equipped for saturation diving. The watch features a unidirectional black ceramic bezel, allowing maximum dive times to be planned, luminous hands and markers and date function.
Design detailing includes ‘fourth element’ engraved on the rotor, buckle (on the silicon/rubber strap version) or clasp (on the brushed stainless-steel version). The crown features the fourth element icon representing the four elements earth, air fire and water.
The Pelagic watch is packaged using only recycled materials (recycled PET) and FSC certified paper and card, demonstrating fourth element’s continued commitment to its OceanPositive mission.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
– Movement: 26 Jewel Swiss Sellita SW200 automatic with hacking function
– Water resistance: 500m / 1640ft
– Helium escape valve: 9 o’clock
– Crown: screw down locking
– Case width: 44mm
– Case thickness: 14mm
– Shatter and scratch resistant sapphire crystal
– Lug to lug: 52mm
– Case material: 316l brushed stainless steel
– Bezel: 120-click unidirectional with black ceramic insert
– Swiss Super-LumiNova C3 on markers and hands
– Strap: 22mm silicone/rubber strap or brushed stainless steel bracelet
– Warranty: 2 years
– Swiss made
RRP: GBP £1475 / USD $1975 / EUR €1795 / AUD $2950 / CAD $2595
info@fourthelement.com / fourthelement.com / Fourth Element Facebook / Fourth Element Instagram / Fourth Element tiktok / Fourth Element YouTube
Nautilus Seascape Mask & Clamshell Case
info@nautilus.uk / nautilus.uk / Seascape Mask on nautilus.uk / Nautilus on Facebook
The Nautilus Seascape single lens mask builds on the experience of proven design with the latest technology.
The ultra soft liquid silicone skirt and strap ensure this frameless mask gives the best fit whilst ensuring a wide 120 degree field of vision.
The antislip buckles means the strap stays where set it and the ultra clear, high vision tempered glass means virtually all light passes through to your eyes.
A substantial nose pocket means that equalising is a joy and that, combined with comfort, makes this the ideal mask for most divers.
To find your nearest Nautilus dealer, click here.
info@nautilus.uk / nautilus.uk / Seascape Mask on nautilus.uk / Nautilus on Facebook
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