News
Travel update from Dominica
More and more divers are discovering the wonder of one of the best-kept secrets in the Caribbean – the island of Dominica. Here’s an travel update from the beautiful so-called Nature Island…
Updated entry requirements – antigen tests now accepted
All visitors entering Dominica can now upload a negative Antigen or PCR test prior to arrival in Dominica. The recent acceptance of Antigen tests makes entry to Dominica even easier for the UK traveller. Vaccinated travellers are then free to explore the island without any further quarantine measures or restrictions. Unvaccinated travellers are required to book a Safe in Nature certified property for the first 5-7 days of their trip and then are free to explore the island with no further restrictions after a negative result on the 5th day. For latest entry requirements please visit https://discoverdominica.com/travel-advisory-for-dominica
Coulibri Ridge – new luxury eco-hotel to open in 2022
Coulibri Ridge is due to open in 2022. Perched on a hillside on Dominica’s south coast overlooking neighboring island of Martinique, the hotel features 14 sea-facing rooms within a sprawling 200-acre tropical estate. A pioneering eco-project decades in the making, the property is entirely off-grid, using solar power as the main source of energy, and filtered rainwater as the primary water source. Guests at the hotel can relax by one of the two swimming pools, indulge in spa treatments, enjoy yoga, or explore the tropical gardens that surround. For more information, please visit www.coulibriridge.com
American Airlines launches first direct flight to Dominica
UK visitors hopeful of travelling to Dominica will now have additional flight options and connectivity. American Airlines now operates direct flights out of Miami on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with plans for daily flights from April 2022. This is the first regularly scheduled direct flight between the U.S and Dominica. With connecting flights via Miami on the same day, these additional flights make travelling to Dominica much easier for UK visitors and allow for more time to explore the Nature Island. For further information on available airlines, please visit discoverdominica.com/en/airlines
Dominica launches new brand identity
The Discover Dominica Authority has launched a new destination brand to position Dominica as a competitive tourism destination in the global tourism market. The new logo is unambiguous and clear, and can be clearly identified when used in smaller applications such as digital advertising and social medial. The new Dominica logo is as unique as the island itself. It has the feel of the rising Morne Trios Pitons; and the various shades of green depict the lush, verdant landscape covering the country. The rich purple accent colour comes from Dominica’s beloved Sisserou parrot and the vibrant red connotes the island’s Creole culture and Kalinago heritage. “The Nature Island” tag line was retained as a competitive advantage. It helps reinforce Dominica’s position as a leader in climate resilience and sustainability.
Discover more about the island of Dominica at www.discoverdominica.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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