News
Oonasdivers launch Diving Holidays for Non-Divers!
Oonasdivers specialize in scuba diving holidays, however they totally understand that donning a mask and fins and taking the plunge isn’t for everyone. With this in mind they have come up with a selection of holidays that mean that no one gets left at home and joining a scuba mad partner/friend/family member on their next adventure is the way forward!
If you don’t mind getting wet, then they suggest looking at destinations where the snorkeling can be as impressive as the diving. Murex Dive Resorts in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, has just put together a range of snorkeling packages taking you to world-class sites such as Bunaken Marine Park with its stunning coral reefs, schools of fish, crystal clear waters and countless turtles. Manado Bay offers ‘muck’ snorkeling opportunities and shallow water reefs set on black volcanic sands where unusual critters can be seen.
Another fantastic destination for snorkelers is the Maldives, stay at one of their wonderful resorts and snorkel Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll where you can see manta rays and whale sharks; or closer to home experience the beautiful corals of the Red Sea at one of Red Sea Diving Safari’s villages where you can find yourself eye to eye with turtles, dolphins, lion fish and even the occasional dugong or whale shark.
For thrill seekers Wadi Lahami in Egypt’s Deep South is a great place to learn to kite surf in the sandy bottom lagoon while the divers explore the Fury Shoals. There is a dedicated kitesurfing centre and the area is also a bird watchers paradise with its mangrove swamps that are home to heron and osprey, to name but a few. For those wanting peace and quiet how about joining a yoga workshop?
For culture vultures Egypt is a must, from Oonasdivers’ diving resorts you can visit the Valley of the Kings and take a trip along the Nile, have dinner in the desert with the Bedouins and take an astro tour under the clear night sky. Gozo is another popular destination for history lovers, and if you want to let off some steam then take a hike along the stunning rugged coastline.
For sun worshippers in search of long sandy beaches we can arrange non-diving options in destination such as Cyprus and Lanzarote, and Mozambique and South Africa offer this and more with the chance to experience the BIG-5 safari, a once in a lifetime experience.
Oonasdivers have come up with some ideas that mean that divers and non-divers can enjoy holidays together!
If you would like more information about these or any other destinations visit the new and improved Oonasdivers website by clicking here or call 01323 648924.
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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