News
More information emerges regarding Pro Dive Mexico’s SHARKSCHOOL program
Pro Dive Mexico, one of the most established and recognized dive operations & CDC Centers in Latin America located at several 4-5* Resorts along the Riviera Maya and in Cozumel, have announced more details on the implementation of their first Sharkschool™ Riviera Maya, in collaboration with the world’s most renowned shark behavioural scientist Dr. Erich Ritter and WiroDive.
This unique event on the Yucatan Peninsula will take place from 15-25 Feb 2016 at the top training facilities of Pro Dive Mexico´s coveted partner hotel Occidental Allegro Playacar, located at one of the finest white sandy beaches on the Riviera Maya, provide experienced divers with the privilege to encounter bull sharks, learn about their behaviour, interpret situations, react correctly and most importantly to feel comfortable around them.
Dr. Ritter convincingly states “Once a person is capable of blocking the erroneous media created image, lets the situation develop without prejudice or fear, and solely tries to interpret the shark’s signals and the environmental factors, an encounter will be rewarding, and not just for the person but the shark as well.”
“SharkSchool™ stands for the safe interaction with sharks and the understanding of situations during encounters. That´s how SharkSchool™ connects links between humans, sharks and shark conservation. The collaboration with Dr. Ritter and WiroDive in regards to the Organization of a SharkSchool™ seminar in Playa del Carmen is an additional important step towards the conservation of ‘our’ sharks,” highlights Markus Fleischmann, CEO & Founder of Pro Dive Mexico.
The 11 days/10 nights “SHARKSCHOOL™ & SAILFISH ENCOUNTER” package for travel dates 15–25 February 2016 is available at US$ 3,299 per diver only and includes:
- Return transfers Cancun – Playacar – Cancun
- 10 nights accommodation at OCCIDENTAL ALLEGRO PLAYACAR****
- Standard Superior double room with All Inclusive meal plan
- 5 days of “BULL SHARK” diving with Dr. Erich Ritter & PRO DIVE MEXICO
incl. 2 dives, tanks, weights, Nitrox
- SHARKSCHOOL™ Dr. Erich Ritter seminar, 1.5 hours daily (6 days), held at OCCIDENTAL ALLEGRO PLAYACAR
- 3 full days of Sailfish encounters, incl. transportation, drinks & snacks, lunch,
English-speaking Guide, accompanied by Dr. Erich Ritter
- Excluding: return flights, services that are not mentioned above, personal expenses.
- Single room supplement OCCIDENTAL ALLEGRO PLAYACAR**** US$ 37/person/ night.
- Extended and shortened experiences are available on request, as well as package-specific itineraries, terms & conditions.
Pro Dive Mexico actively supports the field work of the local project savingoursharks.org by equipping their dive guides with transmitters which they use to gain data and then pass on to the organization, which focuses on the protection of Bull Sharks in the Mexican Riviera Maya.
Everything under one roof, Pro Dive Mexico provides tailor-made experiences, arranges Stay & Dive packages at preferred rates, and offers airport shuttles and combo options to explore the highlights of the Yucatan, such as the mystic Mayan Cenotes, vibrant Cozumel Marine Park, the fastest fish in the world (Sailfish), wrecks, the largest fish of the ocean (Whale Shark), and visits to world heritage sites.
Visit Pro Dive Mexico’s website or inquire by emailing info@prodivemex.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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