News
There’s never been a better time to visit the Philippines, says Regaldive
Following the devastating Typhoon Yolanda in the autumn of 2013, you could easily be mistaken for thinking that the Philippines are currently a no-go destination for tourists. But you couldn’t be more wrong says UK based diving holiday specialist Regaldive. With increased flight capacity now available between the UK and Manila, and the vast majority of the Philippines remaining unaffected or being back in operation following the typhoon, there really hasn’t been a better time to visit.
For experienced divers, the Philippines are a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Its dive sites are home to some of the most diverse marine eco-systems in South East Asia with over 500 species of hard and soft corals and countless varieties of fish and large pelagics waiting to be discovered. For wreck enthusiasts, the Tapilon Wreck – believed to be a WW2 Japanese Cargo wreck, lies off the coast off Malapascua Island, while rare Thresher sharks can also be found close by at Shark Point. For those who are more taken with scenery however, the north of Palawan was once described by Jacques Cousteau as “the most beautiful place I ever explored” and with world-class diving, thermal lakes and underwater caves to be explored, it’s easy to see why.
Andreas Elia, Managing Director of Regaldive, commented “Now is a great time to be visiting the Philippines and this has been reflected in the high demand we have seen for the destination over recent months. From last November, Philippine Airlines re-introduced direct flights from London Heathrow to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. Divers are now able to get there quicker and have a greater choice on when they fly with five flights each week to choose from”.
With regards to the recent typhoon, Elia commented “The vast majority of the Philippines remained unaffected by the typhoon. All of the accommodation and dive centres we use are open and operating as usual, and we are keen to encourage people to continue visiting and economically supporting the people of the Philippines in line with appeals from the Philippines’ Department of Tourism”.
Regaldive offer a range of dive holidays and liveaboards in the Philippines. Seven nights’ at the Pura Vida Resort, based in the beach town of Dauin, cost from £1,012 per person, to include flights, transfers and seven nights’ B&B accommodation*. Three days unlimited diving costs from £229 per person, to include air tanks and weights.
Regaldive’s six night Southern Leyte itinerary which goes in search of whale sharks and macro creatures which journeying on board the SY Philippines Siren, costs from £1,440 per person*. The price includes full board accommodation, soft drinks and beer, three to four boat dives per day, air tanks and weights. Flights are not included but can be arranged through Regaldive.
For further information or to book, visit www.regaldive.co.uk or call +44 (0)1353 659 999.
* Price quoted when taking advantage of the 10% discount available on almost all dive holidays in Regaldive’s Winter Sale. Valid until 31st January 2014.
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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