Blogs
Open Ocean: a not for profit NGO marine field station in the Red Sea
Providing services for universities, researchers, interns, schools, divers, volunteers and conservationists
Open Ocean was established in 2010 to provide a not for profit NGO field station in the Red Sea for academic facilities and divers in general. Founder Hans Lange could not have dreamt how well received his vision would be.
Things truly took off in 2012 when Hans joined forces with Pharaoh Dive Club and Roots Red Sea to establish a totally self-contained field station near El Quseir at their remote coastal desert outpost surrounded by a phenomenal array of marine habitats and an abundant natural resource to study.
The academic interest in the Research and Education opportunities coupled with the simplified logistics of being a complete package proved a great move for Open Ocean and the academic facilities that have been drawn to the field station.
At El Quseir the focus was on Volunteering with residential programmes providing opportunities to get involved in many aspects of life in rural Egypt, in various fields such as Environmental Conservation, Citizen Science Projects, and Local Community Interactive Relationships.
Open Ocean has welcomed numerous volunteers to the programme from all walks of life and all demographics.
Volunteers are very much hands on with whatever activity is running, including:
Environmental Conservation
Organising beach and reef clean ups; sorting of and collating data on the collected debris; appropriate recycling and disposal of the collections.
Community projects such as maintenance and refurbishment of local schools.
Providing conservation education sessions with practical events for the local children and environment groups.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Citizen Science Projects
There are various ongoing Citizen Science Projects running at Open Ocean and every visitor is encouraged to get involved during their stay. Volunteers take a variety of roles within these projects, collecting data directly through surveys or indirectly collating other participants’ data at the end of the day. If suitably qualified, they can also get involved with establishing and running their own projects.
There are various opportunities to get involved such as Turtle Watch or the Shark Trust‘s survey which are simply reporting your sightings from your dives through to full project developments such as Fern’s Reef and the Sea Grass Survey.
Fern’s Reef
In August 2016, Open Ocean established a virgin artificial reef with sterile substrate to monitor and research the colonisation of the new structure. The lead on the project was Fern and the resultant reef is known as Fern’s Reef.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
The structure required bringing in from the shore 500 pieces of fossilised coral bed, formed into a random shaped metre high barrier in a depth of 8 metres with a sand bed and a relatively good tidal flow.
On completion a photo telemetry image was produced to establish a 3D base model record. After just a short period of time, signs of emerging life were noted and after just 6 months there were numerous corals taking a foothold with numerous fish inhabiting different areas of the structure.
This is an ongoing subject of observation and study, one that every visitor takes great interest in as it is now a thriving young live reef. Those with a more scientific outlook also note the distinct changes in topology around the reef, generated by the tidal flow and sand substrate movements. The Open Ocean team are on hand to provide a guided view of the everchanging project.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Sea Grass Survey
The latest Citizen Science Project has been established by Open Ocean: a Sea Grass Survey. The team noticed that a patch of sea grass had begun to form a small meadow in the bay, which raise several questions for research and study. Why has it appeared? How has it seeded itself? What species of grass and algae are there? What aquatic life will make use of the new habitat? And so much more.
Two volunteers were assigned the task to establish the sea grass project; Gerald Taylor and his 13-year-old son, Finlay. Both had the prerequisite diving skills – Finlay in fact, despite his age, came to Roots with 100dives already under his belt.
A month-long exercise at Roots would give Finlay, who has an exceptionally keen interest in the underwater world, real life experience living and working in a foreign country, and an understanding of marine biology project work. Coupled with the project, Finlay worked with the marine biologists at Open Ocean carrying out fish and coral ID and measuring / monitoring techniques.
The initial objective of the project was to measure the perimeter / extremities of the sea grass within the bay and to gain an understanding of its shape, distribution and density.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Together Gerald and Finlay formulated by which they were measure the perimeter of the sea grass. They then undertook land-based measuring techniques using 50 meter transects and quadrats, with the full knowledge that stretching a tape underwater to a distance of nearly 50 meters would have its own complications. Armed with their method, Gerald and Finlay set out to map and record the area taking a fixed point location to set the datum.
If you would like to follow the process that they adopted and see how the project developed, you can read Gerald’s summary here.
Meanwhile, alongside the volunteering activities, the grassroots Research and Education activities at Open Ocean have a very impressive, ever growing academic client list with numerous top facilities making regular visitors for both field courses and research projects.
That’s due to Open Ocean’s aim to satisfy researchers’ needs and requirements by providing and ideally located field station with modern research facilities as well as advice and support in administrative and organisational matters.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
The Open Ocean Field Station offers direct access to the Red Sea at both the house reef, Abu Sauatir, and nearby dozens of reef sites, along with other local habitats of interest including mangroves, sea grass meadows and fossil reefs.
Find out more about what is available at Open Ocean Field Station with a short presentation here.
Research Opportunities
It’s not just the field study groups that frequent the field station; it’s an ideal location for individual study and research projects. here are a few examples of unique studies.
Micro Plastics
Lucy Deans took up a six month placement with Open Ocean in 2016 during which time she completed an amazing amount of conservation work with the assistance from the volunteers and staff. In addition to her paper on microplastics in the sea bed, she endlessly battled with debris from land and sea, collecting, sorting and collating data for her own and other projects.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Camera Drops
The vast majority of study of the oceans is coastal exploration of the shallow depths from the surface to 20m. Over the past few years the Glasgow University students having been completing summer project work and have been completing camera drops extending this study from 60m to 100m. It’s another example of the range of opportunities that are available from the Open Ocean Field Station.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
National Geographic Octopus Study
In 2019, the Open Ocean Field Station provided Eduardo Sampaio the perfect Red Sea for his continued National Geographic funded research on cephalopod behaviour, cognition and neuroscience. His team spent 10 weeks on location recording the incredible behavioural repertoire, camouflage capabilities and complex cognition. View Eduardo’s publication.
Survey and Marine ID Courses
In recent years there has been a steep increase in school participation at Open Ocean generally taking advantage of the Open Ocean Survey and Marine ID Courses giving the students insight into the spectacular aquatic environment. The courses can be conducted for snorkellers or divers.
There is a range of Open Ocean Marine ID Courses for all ages and levels, whether it is young children beginning their voyage of discovery or experienced marine enthusiasts.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
If you are looking for a new expedition base for your school with an educational background, view our Open Ocean Prospectus for schools here.
Meet the Team
The engine room of Open Ocean are the enthusiastic dedicated team who simply love to talk about the wonders of the marine environment, particularly the Red Sea at El Quseir.
Resident Marine Biologist marc leads the team at the station, ably supported by our Intern Tierra, who provides great support.
Alongside is Sammie who takes care of the volunteering activities and is liaison with the local community. Currently Sammie is working with Rose who is out volunteering while developing her diving skills and certifications. Rose has completed her RAID Rescue and is and is about to start the RAID Divemaster.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
They’re not alone though; our consultant Marine Biologist, Dr Deb with her 12 years of field courses at El Quseir, provides vastly experienced guidance and support.
If you are interested in coming out to be a part of the Open Ocean team, here is what just a couple of volunteers have to say:
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Transform Your Dive Experiences into Cinematic Masterpieces
NovoScuba has partnered with acclaimed underwater filmmaker Jeff Goodman to introduce the Underwater Moviemaker Course—a revolutionary program designed to equip divers with the skills to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an avid diver, or a photography enthusiast, this course offers the tools and expertise needed to create stunning underwater videos. From vibrant coral reefs to curious marine life, you’ll learn how to film, edit, and produce captivating underwater stories, all with expert guidance from a seasoned professional.
Jeff Goodman: A Legacy in Underwater Filmmaking
Jeff Goodman brings over 40 years of experience in underwater film production for television to this course. Reflecting on his career, Jeff said:
“Although technology has dramatically changed, the basics of underwater filming remain constant. This course covers crucial skills for producing great videos. Whether you’re creating professional broadcast films or high-quality hobby videos, the fundamental principles are the same.
A camera operator must master their equipment to capture those magical underwater moments effortlessly. But beyond technical know-how, underwater filmmaking is about having fun and enhancing your diving experiences. So, take your time, learn at your own pace, and enjoy this creative journey.”
About NovoScuba
Founded in 2023, NovoScuba is reshaping dive education with a comprehensive, digitally native platform. Offering cutting-edge training programs for divers at all levels, NovoScuba sets a new benchmark in the diving industry by combining innovation with accessibility.
With ISO-certified courses, a student subscription model, and multilingual support, NovoScuba ensures that dive education is inclusive and engaging. More than just a training provider, NovoScuba fosters a global community of divers committed to exploration, collaboration, and sustainability.
Join the NovoScuba Underwater Moviemaker Course Today!
Dive into the world of underwater filmmaking and start creating cinematic stories that inspire. Learn more about the course and enroll today at www.novoscuba.com/novoscuba-underwater-moviemaker-course.
EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba
NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!
The diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.
NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.
A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission
NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.
NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.
Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration
NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.
Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.
NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.
Quality Training at a Great Price
NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.
Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity
At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.
Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success
NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.
Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload
Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.
Crossover Made Easy
For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.
Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership
NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:
- Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
- Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
- Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.
Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement
NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.
Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth
At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.
Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.
Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution
Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.
For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.
Lumbalumba Resort – Manado is an intimate dive and snorkel retreat nestled in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia—a hidden gem within the world-renowned Coral Triangle, home to the planet’s highest marine biodiversity.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
With only six luxurious chalets (just nine rooms), we provide a cozy, flexible atmosphere where every guest receives the genuine, personal attention they are looking for.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Our philosophy is simple: we can only succeed when you’re truly satisfied. Choosing to stay small allows us to deliver the extra-special, personalized service you seek, making your experience here genuinely unforgettable.
For us, you’re not just another tourist.
For you, we’re not just another dive resort.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Rustique situated in our lush bontanical gardens are 3 different types of accommodation, including a family Chalet.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Enjoy a relaxing dip in our infinity pool, unwind at the bar, and savor mouthwatering dishes from our renowned kitchen—each meal crafted to delight your taste buds in every bite.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Lumbalumba Resort has two different kinds of boat; our inboard powered, custom-made catamaran, Diver III, and Diver IV, our fast outboard-powered dive boat.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Both are very comfortable with lots of space to relax from, to and in between dives.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Experience stunning visibility and vibrant coral reefs teeming with schooling fish. Bunaken is also a haven for marine life, boasting a thriving population of Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles. It’s not uncommon to encounter 15 to 20 turtles on a single dive or snorkeling trip!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
But it’s not just about the big sights and wide-angle views. Close to the resort, you’ll find numerous muck and macro dive sites, reminiscent of the famous Lembeh Strait. And let’s not forget the gem of Lumbalumba—the spectacular House Reef, perfect for exploring at your own pace.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Read what what our guests think about us at
Tripadvisor
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
And read what our guests think of us at
SCUBAVERSE
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Beyond diving and snorkeling, there’s is much to explore on land as well!
Discover the Tangkoko Jungle, home to fascinating wildlife like the rare Black Macaque, vibrant Hornbill birds, and the world’s smallest primate, the enchanting Tarsius Monkey.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Take a day trip to the Minahasa Highlands to witness active volcanoes, soothing hot springs, bustling local markets, intricate handicrafts, and breathtaking landscapes.
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
And for thrill-seekers, we offer exciting options like white-water rafting, perfect for those craving an extra dose of adventure!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
We hope this newsletter has provided you with a glimpse into what we have to offer. However, it’s just the beginning—there’s so much more waiting for you!
We offer an incredible combination trip with
Black Sand Dive Retreat in Lembeh
We also offer our
Uncover North Sulawsi program with Pulisan Beach Resort
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com / Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974 / Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
GETTING HERE
The easiest way to reach Manado is by flying with Singapore Airlines via Singapore. There are four direct flights each week, taking just three hours to get to Manado, with departures on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
BOOK NOW!
Email: info@lumbalumbaresort.com
Call: +62 (0) 812 430 2974
Web: www.lumbalumbaresort.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lumbalumba.resort.manado
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lumbalumba.resort.manado/
Stay safe and healthy and we look forward to meet you in Manado soon!
Best wishes,
Juud, Roel and the whole Lumbalumba Team
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