Category: Activities

The post appeared first on: Visit thescubanews.com Author: Lee Here’s a fresh list of exclusive liveaboard deals in the Maldives, offering some of the best itineraries with limited-time discounts. Don’t miss these great offers from The Scuba News Travel Team! Maldives: Adora Departure: 13 Oct 2024 Itinerary: Best of Maldives (Male – Male) Price: from €2,085.00 Special: 20% OFF, valid for a limited time only. T&Cs apply. Learn more https://bit.ly/4doXaxh Ariyal Departure: 03 Aug 2025 Itinerary: Explore Maldives (Male – Male) Price: from €1,575.00 Special: 50% OFF, valid for a limited time only. Learn more https://bit.ly/3zHRwYY Arora Virgo Departure: 04 Dec 2024 Itinerary: Best of Maldives (Male – Male) Price: from €1,666.00 Special: 20% OFF, valid for a limited time only. T&Cs apply. Learn more https://bit.ly/3BooVZA Blue Voyager Departure: 08 Feb 2025 Itinerary: Central & Southern Atolls (Male – Kooddoo) Price: from €2,743.00 Special: 20% OFF. Learn more https://bit.ly/42GIG7X EcoPro Seascape Departure: 24 Oct 2024 Itinerary: Best of Maldives (Male – Male) Price: from €2,506.00 Special: 20% OFF, valid for a limited time only. Learn more https://bit.ly/4aY95Rq Emperor Explorer Departure: 24 Nov 2024 Itinerary: Best of Maldives (Male – Male) Price: from €2,160.00 Special: 20% OFF, valid for a limited time only. Learn more https://bit.ly/3ZjoDei Emperor Leo Departure: 16 Nov 2024 Itinerary: Best of Maldives (Male – Male) Price: from €1,984.00 Special: 20% OFF. Learn more https://bit.ly/3FYVdto Emperor Serenity Departure: 17 Nov 2024 Itinerary: Best of Maldives (Male – Male) Price: from €2,388.00 Special: 20% OFF, valid for a limited time only. Learn more https://bit.ly/3TM4r21 Emperor Voyager Departure: 04 Jan 2025 Itinerary: Best of Maldives (Male – Male) Price: from €1,645.00 Special: 30% OFF. Learn more https://bit.ly/3GpH0pC Horizon 3 Departure: 16 Mar 2025 Itinerary: Addu – Fuvahmulah – Huvadhoo – Laamu – Meemu – Vaavu – Male (Gan – Male) Price: from €4,010.00 Special: 20% OFF and Free Nitrox, valid for a limited time only. Learn more https://bit.ly/40sgcwb Maldives Aggressor II Departure: 24 Nov 2024 Itinerary: Best of Maldives (Male – Male) Price: from €2,072.00 Special: $1,400 OFF, rates include discounts. Learn more https://bit.ly/3JQHbLN Princess Haleema Departure: 06 Oct 2024 Itinerary: Classic Maldives (Male – Male) Price: from €1,230.00 Special: €310 OFF for Standard Double Cabins only. Learn more https://bit.ly/4gLSeVU Scubaspa Yang Departure: 19 Oct 2024 Itinerary: Best of Maldives (Male – Male) Price: from €2,112.00 Special: 20% OFF, Last Minute Special! Learn more https://bit.ly/42KZI4E Don’t miss out on these incredible deals for exploring the stunning waters of the Maldives. The Scuba News Travel Team carefully select from hundreds of liveaboard travel operators and excursion providers around the world. If you find a good deal at The Scuba News and make a booking, we may receive a small commission. This, however does not affect the price you pay.Any prices listed are correct at time of publishing View Source:thescubanews.com.

The post appeared first on: Visit thescubanews.com Author: Kathryn Curzon Southeast Asia is renowned for its breathtaking diving and is home to some of the most biologically diverse waters on the planet. At the heart of this region is the Coral Triangle, a marine area that covers parts of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands. This area harbors nearly 600 species of coral and a vast array of marine life, making it a global hotspot for scuba divers. Photo by Swanson Chan on Unsplash While many divers flock to well-known sites like Indonesia’s Raja Ampat or Thailand’s Similan Islands, Southeast Asia also offers a treasure trove of lesser-known diving destinations. These hidden gems are perfect for divers seeking adventure off the beaten path, where pristine reefs, wrecks, and unique underwater landscapes await. By exploring these quieter spots, divers not only enjoy uncrowded dive sites but also contribute to the local communities and help preserve their untouched ecosystems. Here are 10 hidden dive gems in Southeast Asia for your bucket list. Labuan, Malaysia. Located off the coast of Borneo, Labuan is a hidden wreck diving paradise. This area is home to several WWII wrecks, including the Australian Wreck, the American Wreck, and the Blue Water Wreck. These shipwrecks are adorned with vibrant soft corals and attract schools of fish.  Despite its incredible wreck dives, Labuan remains off the radar for many divers, providing a quieter and more serene experience than Malaysia’s more popular dive spots. Labuan is also known to have manta rays, especially around dive sites in the Labuan Marine Park. Both reef and giant oceanic mantas have been sighted and the peak months for mantas are May to July. Best time to dive: March to October. Experience level needed: Experienced (strong currents and depth). Mu Ko Surin National Park, Phang-nga, ThailandPhoto by Notto Suthipat on Unsplash Mu Ko Surin, Thailand While Thailand’s Similan Islands steal the spotlight for diving in Thailand, Mu Ko Surin National Park, located further north, is a lesser-known gem. The Surin Islands are less visited than the Similans, ensuring a more pristine underwater environment and fewer divers. These islands offer incredible coral reefs and shallow dives with no currents. There are numerous sea turtles and a diverse array of coral landscapes to explore. At nearby Richelieu Rock, one of Thailand’s best dive sites for larger marine life, you can spot manta rays and whale sharks, and explore coral-covered landscapes teeming with fish. A liveaboard that combines diving in the Surin Islands with a trip to Richelieu Rock is a great combination for Advanced Open Water divers. You can enjoy easy diving at the Surin Islands and then work on your blue-water diving skills at the more challenging Richelieu Rock. Best time to dive: November to April. Experience level needed: All levels. Wakatobi, South East Sulawesi, IndonesiaPhoto by Benjamin L. Jones on Unsplash Pulau Weh, Indonesia Tucked away in the far north of Sumatra, Pulau Weh is a hidden treasure of diving in Indonesia. This volcanic island has a laidback vibe and offers an abundance of marine life, including blacktip reef sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins, pelagic fish, and a variety of critters. The reefs are full of healthy corals, and dive sites feature dramatic underwater topography with canyons, pinnacles, and swim-throughs. Best time to dive: May to September. Experience level needed: Experienced (strong currents and deep wrecks). Koh Rong Sanloem, Preah Sihanouk, CambodiaPhoto by allPhoto Bangkok on Unsplash Koh Sdach, Cambodia For a hidden gem in Cambodia, consider Koh Sdach. This tiny island, located in the Koh Kong Archipelago, remains largely off the tourist radar. The diving here is still relatively undiscovered, with healthy coral reefs and diverse marine life, including turtles, schools of fish, and colorful macro critters.  The local dive operators focus on sustainable tourism, and the island itself has a more laid-back, traditional vibe compared to the growing popularity of dive spots such as Koh Rong Samloem. There are plenty of shallow, current-free dive sites, making Koh Sdach perfect for getting your diving license. Koh Sdach’s dive centers not only offer diving services but also engage in conservation efforts to protect the local marine environment. This island is a great choice for environmentally conscious divers who want to explore all that diving in Cambodia has to offer away from any crowds. Best Time to Dive: November to April. Experience Level Needed: All levels. Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar The Mergui Archipelago, located in the Andaman Sea, is one of Southeast Asia’s most secluded diving regions. With over 800 islands, this area offers unspoiled dive sites with crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and encounters with reef sharks, whale sharks, and rays.  The Mergui Archipelago has been affected by overfishing in some regions, particularly in the northern parts. However, the southern areas of the archipelago, such as around the island groups closer to the Thailand border, tend to offer better dive conditions.  Areas like Shark Cave, Black Rock, and North Twin Island are known for their healthy marine life and diverse underwater environments, making them some of the best spots to explore in the archipelago. These sites are more remote and less impacted by human activity, providing better chances to encounter sharks, manta rays, and other pelagic species, as well as vibrant coral reefs. Diving operators in the region are aware of the conservation challenges and often guide divers to the healthier southern dive sites. Diving in the southern Mergui Archipelago typically involves open-ocean diving and can feature strong currents, so it’s a good idea to get your drift diving certification and hone your buoyancy control skills before you go diving here. Best time to dive: November to April Experience level needed: Experienced (steep walls and currents) Photo by Kris-Mikael Krister on Unsplash Sipaka Point, Timor-Leste Timor-Leste is off the radar for most divers, and Sipaka Point is one of its top dive sites for muck diving enthusiasts. This site is perfect for photographers looking to capture macro life such as frogfish, pipefish, and rare nudibranchs. The untouched waters of Timor-Leste also provide fantastic visibility and a quiet dive experience away from the crowds of more…

The post appeared first on: Visit thescubanews.com Author: Lee The death of David Pleace, 57, during a week-long diving trip to Scapa Flow, Orkney, has underscored the importance of thorough equipment checks before diving, according to a recent inquest. Pleace, an experienced diver from Derbyshire, drowned on June 28, 2021, near the SMS Brummer shipwreck after part of his scuba gear became disconnected before entering the water. The incident occurred while he was fulfilling a “bucket list” dive with a group of companions. During the inquest at Derby Coroner’s Court, assistant coroner Sophie Lomas concluded that Pleace’s death was accidental but could have been avoided with proper equipment checks. Pleace had undertaken several scuba diving courses, and no mechanical defects were found in his gear. However, a critical hose had become detached, impairing his buoyancy control. This failure went unnoticed during pre-dive checks, a step that might have saved his life. The incident unfolded during Pleace’s second dive of the trip on June 27. After he was reported missing, a search ensued, and his body was discovered the following day, 20 meters from the shipwreck. The diving expert at the inquest confirmed that the disconnected hose prevented Pleace from controlling his descent. “The reality is because the hose was not connected, from the moment David entered the water, sadly the outcome was set,” said Ms. Lomas. She added that the group, being highly experienced, likely conducted fewer team checks, and this lapse contributed to the tragedy. Ms. Lomas emphasized that all divers, regardless of experience, should prioritize personal and buddy checks. “These checks are very important, and carrying out personal and body checks, regardless of your level of expertise, can have a significant impact on what follows,” she said. The coroner offered her condolences to Pleace’s family and the broader diving community, noting the profound impact his death had on those who knew him. She decided against issuing a prevention of future deaths report, stating that the issue was not due to gaps in training or equipment knowledge but rather a matter of mindset. This incident serves as a poignant reminder to the diving community of the need for vigilance and thorough checks before every dive. View Source:thescubanews.com.

The post appeared first on: Visit thescubanews.com Author: The Scuba News Press Team Freshwater habitat in Canada’s rivers, streams, lakes, and coastal areas is being lost to thousands of small projects that degrade ecosystems and result in migration and dispersal barriers for fish and other aquatic life. There are hundreds of thousands of human-made barriers in Canada’s rivers and streams that limit the movement of fish and other aquatic animals, many of which rely on annual migrations to complete their life cycle. This loss of access to important habitat is one of the reasons fish populations are in decline across the country. One example is Canada’s salmon populations, which are at an all-time low with many facing imminent risk of extinction. The bright side of this story is that the habitat above a barrier is often still in excellent condition and all that is needed is to reconnect the river by eliminating the barrier. We call this restoring fish passage. An added benefit is that restoring access to habitat will help fish adapt to a changing climate and make important infrastructure like roads and railways more resilient to flooding. This is why the Canadian Wildlife Federation is committed to reconnecting our rivers and streams to stop habitat loss. Other countries have already recognized the benefits and acted. The United States has committed over $2 billion to upgrade infrastructure to restore fish passage. Without removing thousands of barriers affecting fish passage, Canada will see irreversible negative effects on the lives of many species like: Salmon and trout that are unable to reach many of their historic habitats American Eel, which are killed in turbines as they migrate to spawn Freshwater mussels, which rely on fish to disperse their juveniles throughout rivers For the sake of our fish, other affected species, and their habitat, we are asking the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada to establish a National Fish Passage Program aimed at reconnecting our rivers and streams as part of Canada’s commitment to achieving the 2030 Global Biodiversity Targets. Today, we ask that you sign this petition to strengthen our voice for the species and habitat that need us. THANK YOU. Learn more at: https://cwf-fcf.org/en/explore/do-more/petitions/STOP-habitat-loss-now/ View Source:thescubanews.com.

The post appeared first on: Visit thescubanews.com Author: Kathy Dowsett Photo Credit: Saltwater Sean, Sean McMullen “I don’t often come across bottles like this snorkelling or diving. The inscription was faded but after I put a few key words in Google, it lead to a blog post from 2012 where this information was shown: “Vitreous Stone Bottles, Warranted Not to Absorb, J. Bourne Patentee, Denby & Codnor Park Potteries Near Derby,” and was made in Derbyshire between 1833 and 1850. William Bourne founded the pottery in 1806 after discovering quality clay in Derbyshire, with his son Joseph later running the business. The “J. Bourne & Son” mark began around 1850. These bottles were made from coarse, heat-resistant clay, fired to become hard and non-absorbent. Salt glazing, a process where salt fused with the pottery’s surface, gave the bottles their shiny finish. This patented technique is stamped below the J. Bourne & Son name.“ Saltwater Sean Vitreous stone: what is it? The name “vitrous” is derived from the Latin word “vitrum,” which means “glass.” Similar to glass, stones with a vitreous lustre reflect light. What is used to make vitreous glass? The glaze on porcelain pottery is a more complicated material that contains Al, K, Ca, and Na oxides (up to 30%) in addition to silica. Vitreous silica is a glass that is almost entirely composed of SiO2, with some Na, Al, Fe, Mg, and Ti oxide impurities. In addition to being more resilient than glass, stoneware bottles from the 19th century had the advantage of maintaining a constant temperature for their contents. High temperatures during the firing process vitrify the material, resulting in a watertight vessel. It follows that the bottle was most likely used for a beverage of some type. After some research, it appears some of these bottles are available for purchase on Etsy. Follow Saltwater Sean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for his never-ending cleanups on the waterways in Nova Scotia. View Source:thescubanews.com.

The post appeared first on: Visit thescubanews.com Author: The Scuba News Press Team Travel preferences are changing, with more tourists opting for aquatic retreats over traditional vacation spots. Whether it’s a tranquil beach, a serene lake, or a vibrant coral reef, the charm of water offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Many travelers are now looking for experiences that immerse them in nature. Future Market Insights notes that the water adventure tourism market is on track to reach an impressive value of $2,160 billion in 2024. It’s projected to grow even further, hitting $1.06 trillion by 2034. With a remarkable annual growth rate of 17.30% from 2024 to 2034, this industry is set for substantial expansion in the coming years. Aquatic retreats provide a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. These destinations invite visitors to unwind while enjoying stunning natural beauty. It’s no wonder they’re becoming increasingly popular among those seeking a unique getaway.  In this article, we’ll explore the key reasons behind this trend, highlighting the appeal of aquatic destinations and their ability to offer unforgettable experiences. Unique Experiences and Activities Aquatic retreats are renowned for the diverse range of unique experiences and activities they offer. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to paddleboarding at sunrise, these destinations cater to adventure-seeking travelers.  Many resorts provide access to activities like scuba diving, kayaking, and fishing, allowing visitors to engage with marine life and explore stunning underwater ecosystems. This variety fosters a sense of adventure that traditional destinations may lack.  BBC states that underwater tourism has a rich history, dating back to Jacques Cousteau’s invention of general-use scuba gear in 1942. Since 1967, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) has certified 27 million divers worldwide, contributing to the popularity of this exciting adventure. Today, approximately 6 million active scuba divers and countless snorkeling enthusiasts explore our oceans. Some resorts even offer educational programs focused on marine conservation, appealing to eco-conscious travelers eager to learn and contribute positively to the environment. The opportunity to create lasting memories through thrilling activities makes aquatic retreats highly attractive to tourists seeking a more dynamic vacation experience. Are aquatic retreats suitable for families with children? Yes, many aquatic retreats cater to families with children. These destinations often offer kid-friendly activities such as snorkeling lessons, beach games, and educational programs about marine life. Family-oriented resorts provide amenities and services designed to ensure a fun and safe experience for visitors of all ages. Connection with Nature and Wellness The natural beauty of aquatic environments fosters a profound connection with nature, enhancing overall well-being. The soothing sounds of waves, the sight of shimmering water, and the feel of soft sand create a calming atmosphere that promotes relaxation. Many tourists find that spending time near water reduces stress and enhances mental clarity, making aquatic retreats a popular choice for wellness-focused vacations.  Resorts often offer wellness programs, such as yoga on the beach or spa treatments with ocean views, further emphasizing the importance of self-care. Travelers can rejuvenate their minds and bodies by immersing themselves in these serene settings, making aquatic retreats a go-to option for those seeking tranquility. As per the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, one of the most renowned wellness destinations is the Dead Sea, famous for its mineral-rich waters. Technically a lake, it boasts salt levels that are at least six times higher than those of most bodies of water. Thanks to its fascinating geological features and health benefits, the Dead Sea attracts over 800,000 visitors each year. Here, visitors can indulge in a unique experience that combines relaxation with health benefits. The high salt concentration allows for effortless floating, while the mud is believed to have healing properties for the skin and joints. Many travelers seek Dead Sea accommodation that provides luxurious spa treatments, including mud wraps and salt scrubs. According to Isrotel, many hotel chains in the Mediterranean recognize the growing demand for wellness experiences and have tailored their offerings accordingly. These resorts often feature state-of-the-art spa facilities that utilize local ingredients and traditional healing practices. The combination of skilled therapists and natural elements creates an experience that enhances both physical and mental well-being. What types of accommodations can tourists expect? Tourists can find a variety of accommodations at aquatic retreats, ranging from luxury resorts to cozy beachfront cabins. Many establishments offer unique features like ocean-view rooms, private balconies, and direct access to water activities. This diversity allows travelers to choose lodging that suits their preferences and budget. Digital Detox and Mindful Living A 2022 Statista survey found that 32% of U.S. internet users take daily breaks from digital devices, disconnecting for at least two hours. About 25% of respondents reported engaging in digital detox activities every week. Additionally, 8% of participants said they practice digital detox at least once a month, highlighting a growing trend toward reducing screen time. Aquatic retreats provide a perfect environment for a digital detox, allowing tourists to disconnect from their devices and embrace a slower pace of life. The tranquil setting of water destinations encourages visitors to focus on the present moment, promoting mindfulness and relaxation. Many resorts intentionally limit Wi-Fi access or create spaces that encourage guests to engage in offline activities, such as reading, meditating, or enjoying nature.  This shift away from screen time helps travelers reconnect with themselves and their companions, fostering deeper conversations and meaningful interactions. As more people recognize the mental health benefits of stepping away from technology, aquatic retreats become increasingly attractive as a sanctuary for mindful living. Can visitors participate in marine conservation efforts? Yes, many aquatic retreats involve visitors in marine conservation efforts. Resorts often offer programs where guests can participate in activities like beach clean-ups, coral planting, or educational workshops about local ecosystems. Engaging in these initiatives allows travelers to contribute positively while enjoying their vacation experience. Aquatic retreats are becoming a popular alternative to traditional vacation spots, combining adventure, relaxation, and a strong connection to nature. Travelers are drawn to these destinations for their unique experiences, wellness benefits, and…