News
Kefalonia – Bad weather gives us an amazing diving opportunity
On a recent press trip to Kefalonia organised by Scuba Hellas, we had two days of diving organised to try to fit in four World War II wrecks that can be found in these usually calm waters. However, the weather had other plans for us, and on one of our diving days, strong winds meant that we could not take the boats out at all. At first, we were disappointed as we were really looking forward to diving the submarine wreck of the Perseus, but the dive centres looking after us, Pirate Divers Club and Blue Manta & Aquanautic Club, came up with an intriguing alternate dive plan.
Our coach took us to a lake that sits just by the sea called Karavomilos. Fresh water filters through the island until it reaches this cave system and then out into the sea. The water is brackish and is made up of a shallow lake that leads you into the cavern and then cave system. Nick and I are not qualified to penetrate the cave and so our plan was to photograph the entrance and the stalagmites and stalactites we were told were within sight of the exit.
With 14 divers, including guides, in our group, we decided to split-up and go in small groups to give everyone a chance to get uncrowded images of the cavern. We were last to go, and as each group surfaced, the clouds rolled in, denying us the sunlit entrance we were hoping for. But, as we descended into the shallow lake, into the chilly fresh water (only 14 degrees), we knew that it was going to be worth the wait. The lake is covered in green weed and in the sunshine the water is deep blue. There is a fallen tree at the entrance to the cave and then you go into a wide arch that is the cave system entrance.
Only a few fin kicks in and we were amazed at the geological treasures so easily accessed. We dived no deeper than 10m, stopping when we could no longer see the blue window of the exit. Here there was a line already prepared for any cave divers that wanted to dive further into the system. As we had only expected to be diving in the sea, our 5/4/3mm wetsuits were a little shy on the thermal protection required for this temperature, and whilst we were glad of our hoods and gloves, a 30 minute dive was going to be plenty.
But, even in this short exploration into the cave system, we were rewarded with some amazing scenery. The stalagmites and stalactites were huge and seemed to glow a gold colour we have never seen before. There were sections with large banks gripping the cavern roof and floor and we were very careful not to damage them. The cavern floor had huge boulders and rocks, making this a great place for underwater photography. And the water was really, really clear!
As we headed back out, we saw the surface being peppered with heavy rain, so there were no gorgeous sunrays to photograph and no sunshine to warm us up either! So, on reflection, this is a site we would love to go back to, with a bit more sunshine, and more plans on getting some stunning images. If you are planning to dive in Kefalonia, we would recommend that you put this dive on your wish list.
Watch out for our next piece on diving in Kefalonia, when we do get a day of diving in the sea, plus some culture, food & wine.
With thanks to:
For more from Nick and Caroline, visit www.frogfishphotography.com.
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.
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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