Scuba Diving the HMS Warrior II, English Channel February 22, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : Uncategorized , add a commentCoral reef discovered by WWF Scuba Divers near Thailand February 22, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : OceanDiving , add a commentIt is hard to believe that there are many places left in the world where we haven’t already been, particularly with regard to shallow reefs in Thailand, but apparently there is a new undiscovered reef. In an article by Sydney Morning Herald, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) said a team of its divers using information from local fishermen made the discovery in January off Thailand’s Phang-nga Province.
The announcement comes as experts from around the world meet in Thailand to discuss coral reef restoration and management.
“Initial rapid surveys have identified over 270 hectares of previously unknown, relatively healthy reefs,” WWF said in a statement. “I believe discussions with fishermen over a wider area will lead us to discover even more important reefs, not yet mapped or protected by the authorities,” said Songpol Tippayawong, Head of the WWF Thailand Marine and Coastal Conservation Unit. “This reef is easily accessible to dive operators from nearby Khao Lak, and if managed properly can become a prominent local dive site while also contributing an important source of income to the local community,” Tippayawong said.
Pollution, global warming and expanding human settlements along coasts are among mounting threats to reefs and mangroves, while Khao Lak itself was badly hit by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
EPA issues permit to sink aircraft carrier and create new artificial reef for scuba divers February 22, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : WreckDiving , add a commentI wrote a little while ago about some local residents getting frustrated that the project to sink the USS Oriskany was falling well behind and there were fears that it would never happen. Well, in an article on Sun-Sentinel, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) have issued the permit to the Navy.
The agency issued a permit for disposal of toxins known as polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, contained in the ship’s electrical cable, insulation and paint. The permit was the final hurdle Navy leaders needed before returning the famed Korean and Vietnam War carrier from a shipyard in Beaumont, Texas, to Pensacola.
“Without that permit we weren’t going anyplace. We’ve been working on this thing for four years now,” said retired Vice Adm. Jack Fetterman, president and CEO of the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation and a longtime advocated for the Oriskany project.
The Oriskany is the first of more than 20 ships the Navy hopes to dispose of through reefing, and the lengthy Oriskany PCB disposal permit process was a first for the Navy and the EPA. The carrier will be sunk with a total of about 700 pounds of PCBs, which EPA officials said will slowly leach out over the estimated 100 years it will take the carrier to rust away and should pose no danger to marine life or humans.
Fetterman, who has worked to bring the Oriskany to Pensacola since 2001, said the Navy should begin towing the ship from Texas to Pensacola March 2 and that the Oriskany would return to Pensacola by March 7. The target date for sinking the ship is May 15. The Navy said final sinking preparations such as removal of doors and hatches and cutting openings in the decks and bulkheads would take place once the ship is returned to Pensacola.
PowerShot A540 Digital Camera ideal for Scuba divers, says Canon February 22, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : Photography , add a commentCanon have recently announced their new range of digital cameras and one model in particular looks like it is worth considering from a scuba diving point of view. Here’s a few details of the range from Canon’s press release;
Canon’s newest A-Series digital cameras - the six-megapixel PowerShot A700 and the PowerShot A540 models, add an array of advanced, enhanced, yet easy-to-use features into compact and eminently affordable packages.
Among the featured enhancements on the PowerShot A540 and A700 digital cameras is a newly designed six-megapixel image sensor that together with Canon’s proprietary DIGIC II image processor helps to dramatically reduce “noise” for better image quality and achieves ISO equivalent speed ratings ranging from 80 to 800. This increased sensitivity allows the use of faster shutter speeds, thereby reducing the effects of camera shake and subject blur during hand-held photography in low light.
The A700 and the A540 can brilliantly capture fleeting images in the blink of an eye. What’s more, a quick review of the shot on any of these cameras’ big and bright LCD monitor reveals whether that image comprises the perfect moment captured forever or whether it should be condemned to death by deletion (in time to take another photo worth keeping).
From close-ups capturing the unabashed joy of a baby’s face, all wide-eyed innocence, chubby cheeks and gummy grin; or powerful panoramas, vast vistas and once-in-a-lifetime looks at nature’s wonders, to the family functions and memorable milestones that punctuate life’s journey, these new pocket- or purse-sized PowerShot digital cameras easily create enduring images that depict and define special moments in time.
It looks like it is only the A540 model which will have an underwater housing and Canon has this to say;
PowerShot A540 Digital Camera
Except for its retractable 4x optical zoom lens with a focal length of 35-140mm (35mm equivalent); the PowerShot A540 digital camera is virtually identical to the PowerShot A700 model. Like the PowerShot A700 digital camera, the PowerShot A540 model features six-megapixel resolution and a 2.5-inch LCD screen. It also accepts Canon’s optional wide and tele converter lenses as well as a close-up lens and wireless flash. An optional waterproof housing system (with a depth rating of 40m/130 feet) is available expressly for the PowerShot A540 camera, making this model a natural for underwater photo enthusiasts, SCUBA divers and even snorkelers. Replacing 2005’s top-selling PowerShot A520 model, the PowerShot A540 digital camera will be available in March for an estimated selling price of $299.99.
Now you can experience ‘total comfort’ scuba diving in Hawaii February 21, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : Travel , add a commentMaybe this year ‘comfort’ is the new scuba diving hot marketing phrase. Earlier today I wrote about Sherwoods new BC’s which are the most comfortable in the world, and now Captain Bruce is offering ‘total comfort’ scuba diving. Here’s his press release;
Hawaii is a quintessential paradise that is nestled at the southernmost part of the United States and boasts of great beaches and panoramic views. With its pristine waters teeming with rich marine life, there is no doubt why this beautiful island is a haven for all scuba divers. As a matter of fact, scuba diving in Hawaii is one great adventure that one shouldn’t miss. But although this maybe one grand escapade, people may have misgivings about engaging in this activity because of the probable difficulties that it poses.
Captain Bruce, the leading provider of scuba diving services in Hawaii, offers a wonderful treat for all scuba divers by introducing their “extreme comfort” scuba diving services. Those who want to avail of this service get free transportation from Waikiki and Ko Olina. They will be treated to superior customer service at the company’s smoke-free vessels and vans.
Customers can also avail of Captain Bruce’s new rental gears - fully balanced Sherwood Magnum Regulators, Silhouette BCDs, excellent quality wet suits, and “Super 82s” and “Super 100’s” tanks for full-length dives. Equipped with these latest gears they are guaranteed to enjoy a blissful diving experience as they explore the stunning Hawaii underwater. In addition, clients can also avail of the high tech dive computers at no extra charge.
To capture the wonderful under the sea adventure, disposable cameras are available on board. These cameras can work to up to a depth of 95 feet. Divers can now take a photo of the coral reefs and various marine species thriving in the Pacific Ocean.
On multiple days, customers can also avail of “deep discounts” that entitles them to take advantage of huge discounts on their third charter.
Go Diving! Scuba Diving Show in Birmingham NEC between 17th and 19th March 2006 February 21, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : News , add a commentThousands of scuba enthusiasts from all over the UK will be flocking to the Go Diving! Show in Birmingham’s NEC between 17 and 19 March 2006. A whole host of speakers are lined up, including leading British cave diver Gavin Newman, and celebrated marine guide author Helmut Debelius. Debelius will also be signing copies of his new book World Atlas of Marine Fishes.
The all-new British Underwater Image Festival launches at the three-day event and will showcase the best of underwater photography and film talent. The best 50 prints will be displayed in a special area within the Go Diving! Show, while six finalists in the film categories will be shown throughout the show on Friday Saturday and Sunday.
Leading equipment manufacturers will be presenting the latest kit on the market, while top travel firms will be there to give expert advice on the best dive travel.
The second day of the show will see Britain’s finest scuba brains competing in the grand final of the Under Pressure quiz, compered by diving newsman John McIntyre. Last year’s runner up, Michael Jack, has qualified for the nail-biting final again. Prizes include a Tony Backhurst holiday, an Abyss drysuit and a Ralf Tech watch.
There’s also the chance to win a dive holiday to Jordan with Longwood Holidays and Sea Star Watersports at the DIVE stand. Visitors will also be able to take advantage of DIVE’s exclusive show subscription offers.
A ticket to Go Diving! also gains you entry into The Ordnance Survey Outdoors show with exciting sections on everything from rambling to para-gliding. There are specialist areas on lots of exciting outdoor pursuits such as canoeing, mountaineering and biking.
Tickets are £14 at the door, £8 for children.
