diving
No. 15 3(15)/2021 MAY/JUNE
Price 12,50 € Tax included
freediving
passion
knowledge
MEXICO
JOURNEY TO THE INTERIOR OF THE EARTH MY ATTERSEE
1
V-SERIES REGULATORS
[QUALITY | RELIABILITY | SIMPLICITY ] [EN250: 2014 CE1463]
Photo: Michal Sevecek
2
the foreword
WOJCIECH ZGOŁA
Editor-in-Chief
W
e all like adventures, interesting meetings... Literally each single dive is an adventure. You never know what awaits you in the depths and
what you will find and discover. Our most recent issue is packed with a huge portion of amazing adventures, meetings and undertakings. All of this is adorned with beautiful photographs and packed with specific knowledge, as always, with care for our planet Earth. Our editorial team has grown. We have new people writing for us, debuting in the Perfect Diver Magazine. You’ll be seeing more foreign names among our authors. Practically every text will absorb the reader. We dive virtually and this broadens your horizons, brings back nice memories and, most of all, drives you to make plans in your head. The summer holidays are coming soon. Nature awaits! I encourage you to bite really deep into this issue. Take a dive into it, but remember about safety stops, flushing your equipment and a good dinner. I really recommend the article which accurately presents the problem of plastic and human dependence on it. Divers, as well as non-divers, should read this one and reflect on how their symbiosis with plastic looks like. Each subscriber and everyone who decides to buy the newest issue of the magazine will receive a coloring book. What is on the other side? Find out! Come and take a look at what we prepared for you inside. This is all for you.
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
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ta b l e o f co n t e n t s
10
30
34
TRAVELS 10
Mexico. Journey to the interior of the Earth
20
What is Waves&Ice?
24
Spain, the country of wonderful people
30
My Attersee
KNOWLEDGE 34
ARCHAEOLOGY 54
Surgery, Disappearing Wrecks and Big Money
56
How did it start? History of underwater archaeology
Snoot in underwater photography
REVIEW
FREEDIVING 58 40
4
Static apnoea. Performance factors
Nine 1/2 weeks with MK2i or a subjective Garmin multitool review
PLANET EARTH 44
Plastic. An enemy or a friend?
50
Cranes. Long-legged elegance
Publisher PERFECT DIVER WOJCIECH ZGOŁA ul. Folwarczna 37, 62-081 Przeźmierowo redakcja@perfectdiver.com ISSN 2545-3319
editor in chief
Wojciech Zgoła
underwater archaeology
Mateusz Popek
columnist publicist, photographer marketing
&
advertisement
english language translators
Irena Kosowska Bartosz Pszczółkowski Hubert Reiss Agnieszka Gumiela-Pająkowska Arleta Kaźmierczak Reddo Translations Sp. z o.o.
legal care graphic design and composition
Lawyer Joanna Wajsnis Brygida Jackowiak-Rydzak
the magazine was folded with typefaces
Montserrat (Julieta Ulanovsky)
44
Open Sans (Ascender Fonts) Spectral (Production Type) printing
TIPS & CURIOSITIES 64
Wieland Drukarnia Cyfrowa, Poznań, www.wieland.com.pl
distribution
dive centers, online store
preorder@perfectdiver.com
Regulator. Part 2, “Dispelling the Myths”
cover photo
Zbigniew Rogoziński place
Mexico, Cenote Dos Ojos
www.perfectdiver.com
64
The Editorial Office does not return unsolicited materials, is not responsible for the content of advertisements and reserves the right to shorten, edit, title the submitted texts and select illustrative materials. Reprinting of articles or parts thereof, copying only with the consent of the Editorial Board. Editors are not responsible for the form and content of advertisements.
If you like this issue, donate any amount! Donation is voluntary. PayPal.Me/perfectdiver PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
5
e d i to r i a l t e a m
WOJCIECH ZGOŁA
MATEUSZ POPEK
BARTOSZ PSZCZÓŁKOWSKI
He often repeats that he travels by diving and that
”My passion, work and life are under water.” He has
That's my name and I come from Poznań. I have
is his motto. In 1985 he obtained a yacht sailor's
been diving since 2009. Since 2008, he's walking
been associated with water practically from birth
license, and only in 2006 began to dive. In the fol-
in caves. Underwater archeologist by education.
and with diving since I learned to walk. My grand-
lowing years he improved his skills by obtaining
He participated in numerous projects in Poland
father instilled my passion for the underwater
the Dive Master degree. He completed nearly
and abroad. He has been engaged in professional
world, a CMAS*** instructor taking me to the
650 dives in various climatic conditions. Since
diving since 2011. In 2013 he obtained the qual-
lakes at any free time. I obtained my first qual-
2007, he has been taking photographs underwa-
ifications of a 2nd class diver. Has experience in
ifications in 1996. A year later I went to Croatia
ter, and since 2008 he has also been filming. As
underwater work both at sea and inland. Since
and literally went crazy at the sight of blue wa-
an independent journalist, he published dozens
2013 he has been diving in caves, especially in the
ter, octopus and colorful fish;) I bought my first
of articles, mainly in journals dedicated to diving,
mountains, and since 2014 he is a diving instruc-
underwater camera – Olympus 5060 and started
but not only. Co-author of photo exhibitions in
tor CMAS M1. In June 2020, he obtained a doctor-
the adventure with underwater photography.
Poland and abroad. He is passionate about and
al degree in underwater archeology.
I acquired my diving experience in the Canary
propagator of diving.
Islands, Sardinia, Norway, Maldives and in Polish
Since 2008 he has been running his own website
lakes. I am currently a Padi and ESA instructor,
www.dive-adventure.eu. On the basis of extensive
I train diving enthusiasts in Europe and pass my
experience, in August 2018 he created the new
passion on to others.
Perfect Diver Magazine.
I invite all lovers of the underwater world and photography to Beediver (FB) – see you soon.
IRENA KOSOWSKA
HUBERT REISS
Regional Manager Divers Alert Network Polska,
An IT specialist by profession, but a flesh and
diving and first aid instructor, technical diver and
blood salesman who is not afraid of any job. Div-
cave diver. In love with all flooded, dark, cold,
ing has always been my big dream. At the begin-
tight places and invariably from the beginning
ning it was supposed to be a challenge, a short
of the diving route – in the Baltic. Implementing
episode but it turned out to be a passion for the
the DAN mission, he conducts a series of lectures
end of the world and one day longer. Under water
”Dive safely” and Diving Safety Laboratory, so field
I react and rest. As a Divemaster, sidemount Razor
research of divers for scientific purposes.
diver, and recently also a photographer, I realize my dreams by admiring and immortalizing the beauty of the underwater world. "Passion breeds professionalism, professionalism gives quality, and quality is a luxury in life. Nowadays, especially..."
co n s ta n t coo p e r at i o n
WOJCIECH A. FILIP
ANNA SOŁODUCHA
SYLWIA KOSMALSKA-JURIEWICZ
Has more than 8000 dives on his account. He
A graduate of Geography faculty at the University
A traveller and a photographer of wild nature.
has been diving for over 30 years, including over
of Wrocław and an incurable optimist… with a per-
A graduate of journalism and a lover of good liter-
20 years as a technical diver. He is a professional
manent smile on her lips! It was probably Destiny
ature. She lives in harmony with nature, promotes
with great theoretical and practical knowledge. He
that led her to Activtour… and she's been here
a healthy lifestyle: she is a yogini and a vegetarian.
is an instructor of many federations: GUE Instruc-
on permanent basis. She passionately fulfils the
Also engaged in ecological projects. Sharks and
tor Mentor, CMAS**, IANTD nTMX, IDCS PADI, EFR,
dreams of many, organizing diving trips around the
their protection are especially close to her heart.
TMX Gas Blender. He participated in many diving
world, and she has already been diving for more
She writes about the subject in numerous articles
projects and conferences as a leader, explorer,
than half of her life. Each year she explores a dif-
and on her blog www.divingandtravel.pl. She be-
originator or lecturer. These included the Britan-
ferent ‘piece of the ocean’, pinning another pin to
gan her adventure with diving fifteen years ago
nic Expedition 2016, Morpheus Cave Scientific
her diving world map. In winter she changes fins
by total coincidence. Today she is a Divemaster,
Project on Croatia caves, GROM Expedition in
into her beloved skis and gets away into the Alps.
she visited over 60 countries and dived on 5 con-
Narvik, Tuna Mine Deep Dive, Glavas Cave in Croa-
A recipe for life? ”The only a dead trunk flows with
tinents. She invites us for a joint journey with the
tia, NOA-MARINE. Professionally, he is a technical
the current – the explorer's canoe flows up the river!”
travel agency www.dive-away.pl, of which she is
director at TecLine in Scubatech, and a director of
anna@activtour.pl
a co-founder.
training at TecLine Academy.
activtour.pl; travel.activtour.pl; 2bieguny.com
KAROLA TAKES PHOTOS
JAKUB DEGEE
MICHAL ČERNÝ
Karolina Sztaba, and professionally Karola Takes
Polish photographer, winner of awards and dis-
"Wet photos" – He has photographed since he
Photos, is a photographer by education and pas-
tinctions in world underwater photography com-
remembers. After several years of experience as
sion. She is currently working at the Trawangan
petitions, has already dived all over the world: with
a diver, he wanted to keep memories of underwa-
Dive Center on a tiny island in Indonesia – Gili
sharks and whales in South Africa, with orcs be-
ter dives. He bought his first compact camera with
Trawangan, where she moved to live four years
hind the Arctic Circle, on Galapagos with hundreds
an underwater housing. Over time, however, the
ago.She photographs above and below the wa-
of hammerhead sharks and humpback whales in
desire to have the best photo began to dominate,
ter. In addition, she creates photographic proj-
the Tonga Islands. He participates in specialist
which was not quite possible with the compact
ects against littering the oceans and polluting
photographic workshops. He has been diving for
he used. That's why he switched to the Olympus
our planet with plastic ("Trapped", "Trashion"). He
27 years, he started at the age of 12 – as soon as
PEN E-PL 5 reflex camera, which allows the use of
cooperates with NBO organizations dealing with
it was formally possible. He was the first in the
several different lenses. He uses a combination
environmental protection and actively partici-
world to use the Hasselblad X1d-50c camera for
of underwater flashes and lights. He focuses on
pates in pro-ecological actions (coral protection,
underwater macro photography. Recently, in the
wildlife photography, not arrangement. He photo-
coral planting, cleaning the world, protection of
remote Chincorro archipelago on the border be-
graphs in fresh domestic waters as well as in the
endangered species). He is also the official pho-
tween Mexico and Belize, he did it again, taking
seas and oceans of the world.
tographer of Ocean Mimic – a brand that creates
a successful attempt to photograph the eye of
He has already won numerous awards at Czech
swimwear and surfwear from rubbish collected
a crocodile with a macro lens with an additional
and foreign photography competitions. More
on the beaches of Bali. She cooperated with many
magnifying lens, which is the world's largest photo
photos can be found on his website, where you
brands of diving equipment for which she created
of the crocodile's eye living in the wild (in terms of
can also buy them not only as photos, but also as
advertising campaigns. In 2019, she became the
pixel count, print size, quality).
photos printed on canvas or on another medium.
ambassador of the Polish company Tecline.
www.mokrefotky.cz
She has been a technical diver for two years.
www.facebook.com/MichalCernyPhotography www.instagram.com/michalcerny_photography/
co n s ta n t coo p e r at i o n
WOJCIECH JAROSZ
AGNIESZKA KALSKA
LAURA KAZIMIERSKA
A graduate of two Poznan universities, the Acad-
”I can't imagine living without water, where in a free
Laura Kazimierska is currently working as PADI
emy of Physical Education (coaching specializa-
body I experience freedom of the spirit.”
Course Director at TrawanganDive Center on the
tion – handball) and the University of A.Mickiewicz, Faculty of Biology (specialty of experimental biology). He connected his professional life with this first university trying to influence the direction of development of future professionals on the one hand, and on the other planning and
• founder of the first freediving and swimming school in Poland – FREEBODY, • Apnea Academia International and PADI Master Freediver freediving instructor, • world record holder in freediving (DYN 253 m),
Indonesian island of Gili Trawangan. Founder of the Divemastergilis portal. www.divemastergilis.com @divemastergilis For over 7 years she has lived and discovered the underwater world of Indonesia. She is not only an avid technical diver, but also the face of the
implementing research, pushing laboriously in
• record holder and Polish champion, member
Planet Heroes platform and the ambassador of
the right direction of the stroller called science.
of the national team in freediving 2013–2019,
the Ocean Mimic brand. She actively contributes
In his free time he spends his time actively – his
• winner of the World Championships in freed-
to the promotion of the protection of corals and
main passions are sailing (sea helmsman), skiing
iving 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2018,
the natural environment of fish and marine an-
(downhill skiing instructor), riding a motorcycle,
• multimedalist of the Polish Championships
imals by taking part in scientific projects, cam-
recreational diving and many other activities, as
and a member of the national team in swim-
paigns against ocean littering and cooperating
well as photography, mainly nature.
ming in the years 1998–2003,
with NGOs in Indonesia.
• passionate about freediving and swimming.
AGATA TUROWICZ-CYBULA
ADRIAN JURIEWICZ
Since I was a child, I had dreamed of becoming
A traveler, photographer and the underwater
a marine biologist and I managed to fulfill that
world filmmaker, an Asian cuisine enthusiast
dream. I did a degree in oceanography, where
and a PADI diving instructor. He visited over
I recently started my doctoral studies. My diving
70 countries and dived on 5 continents (the
adventure began when I was 12 years old. I love
other two are planned for next year's expedi-
observing the underwater life up close and I try to
tions). For several years he has also been an
show other divers how fascinating the underwa-
instructor and trainer of the unmanned aircraft
ter, Baltic creatures are.
flights. A co-author of a travel agency for divers www.dive-away.pl. He documents his expeditions with photos and descriptions of his journeys on his blog www.divingandtravel.pl
@laura_kazi
o u r au t h o r s
BRUNON WALIGÓRA
MICHAL ŠTROS
"The awareness of the beauty of the underwater
The author is biologist by profession, involved in
My name is Aleš Koštomaj. I'm from Slovenia (Eu-
world is the passion of the whole life for a child..."
cancer research at the Czech Academy of Scienc-
rope). I was born 1978 (43 years old) in city Cel-
It is a thought that has guided my life as long as
es in Brno. His profession enabled him to travel
je. From what I can remember I loved snorkeling
I can remember. Adventure with I started aquaris-
around the globe and to visit places which are
and freediving. I studied at the Faculty of Sports
tics as a 9-year-old child. Today I have a gray head,
also regarded as the best dive sites. Underwater
in Ljubljana, where I became more professionally
but still I sit for hours in front of the glass separat-
photography became a part of his life since he
acquainted with freediving. At first I was active in
ing me from the wonderful world of the reef coral.
dove the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. His ”pet“
spearfishing (between 2001 and 2009), and then
Diving has become for me a way of communing
is Canon 80D (Ikelite housing, ”fish eye“, 60 mm
for a few years I completely focused on freediving.
with the underwater fauna and flora in nature,
and 100mm macro lenses, Subsee diopters and
Between 2009 and 2016, I trained and competed
where I can feel this world with all my senses at
snoot RETRA), as well as the Photoshop editing
in freediving. My biggest success is a 3rd place in
once. The camera is an inseparable companion
software. He received an “Honorary Mention” on
CWT (AIDA international world) in Croatia (Lopar,
of my underwater expeditions allows you to re-
one of the most the prestigious underwater photo
2011). In 2017, I received my master’s degree from
cord all these wonderful experiences not only
contest, Ocean Art 2020 (Underwater Art). Some
the Faculty of Sports and became a master of sci-
in memory, but also in films and photographs.
of his underwater photos are processed by cre-
ence in freediving. Since 2017, I no longer compete
I professionally deal with transport and logistics,
ative tools, by combination of underwater pho-
but I love discovering the underwater world with
although this path has been chosen for me by life
tography and digital software to create captivating
an underwater camera in freediving and I also do
sort of obligatory. Sailing is also an escape from
– sometime even surrealist – images.
researches with top Slovenian freedivers (Samo
everyday stress for me dance. All my passions
His photos are regularly published in scuba diving
Jeranko, Andrej Ropret, Jure Daić,...).
are actively supported by my wife and daughter.
magazines and presented at exhibitions. He be-
So far, I have the highest scientific education in
Remember! – “The glass of life must always be half
lieves that exhibiting of underwater photos to the
freediving in Slovenia (Mag. Aleš Koštomaj).
full, never half full empty".
public could increase social awareness towards
ALEŠ KOŠTOMAJ
marine conservation. More underwater photos, as well as information about the author, are to be found on his website http://michalstros.cz
KLAUDYNA BRZOSTOWSKA
MACIEJ SZCZEPAŃSKI
PADI diving instructor and videographer. She
My name is Maciej Szczepański, I am 26 years old,
Hi! I am Max, an underwater photographer and
spends most of his time in the water documenting
I am a second-year student of MA studies in the
scuba instructor with more than 5000 logged
a fascinating underwater world. She graduated
field of Military Studies at the Nicolaus Coperni-
dives around the world. I started diving at the age
from the Academy of Fine Arts in the field of Fash-
cus University in Toruń. I am interested in broadly
of 7 and for as long as I can remember, always
ion Design in Łódź and Film studies at the Adam
understood history and old motorization. I also
had camera in my hand. But it's only after having
Mickiewicz University in Poznań, trained as a tai-
collect military, watches and other old items.
worked on Koh tao for a few years that I com-
MAXIME CHEMINADE
lor, and with a love of nature and a large dose of
bined my passion for photography and the ocean.
adrenaline. She loves everything related to water.
My objective is to take more pictures and raise
Her diving adventure began with a backpacking
awareness by showcasing divers exploring the
trip in 2016. During her stay in Thailand she dived
ocean. This includes a variety of environments,
for the first time and from then on she got hooked
from glacier water to deep wrecks. I create some
on at this sport. Spending the last years and most
educational content about underwater photogra-
of her days under water, teaching and showing
phy on YouTube. You can see more of my images
the beauty of the underwater world in Asia, she
on Instagram @maxime_underwater or on my web-
believes that diving means unity – unity with own
site maximecheminade.com
mind, nature and unusual creatures. @waterographyk
t r av e l s
Mexico JOURNEY TO THE INTERIOR OF THE EARTH Text ANNA SOŁODUCHA Photos ZBIGNIEW ROGOZIŃSKI
People can't fly because they don't believe they can. If they had not been shown that they could swim, to this day everyone would drown when thrown into the water.
10
travels
M
exico is one of the few places on Earth where you can experience the feeling of flying. Free, independent, in the rays of sunlight. It is enough to just love
diving. Simply. The Yucatán Peninsula was a truly sleepy place until Jacques
Mexico
Yucatan Peninsula
Cousteau visited it in 1960. On the Caribbean coast, on the quiet, shallow and white as sugar beaches, they fall in love, in
Guatemala
the thickets of mangroves you can see flocks of exotic birds or feel the gaze of a cayman waiting for its victim, and cruise ships moor in ports – the same ones that a thousand years ago were used by the Maya. The interior of the peninsula is made up of agricultural towns set in the shadow of 16th-century monasteries. Each of the three states that make up the peninsula: Quintana Roo, Campache and the Yucatan Peninsula are a palette
volcanic places, within caves, grottos, without a reef environ-
of archaeological sites hidden deep in the jungle. In this whole
ment – immediately remove Mexico from their list of selected
crucible of diversity, there is also the second largest coral reef
diving destinations in the world... but are you sure diving on
in the world, and a system of underground rivers, lowlands
this unusual peninsula is not worth the sin?
and karst craters, or cenotes. This whole agglomeration has
Pangaea. One of the supercontinents means in Greek "all
made Mexico one of the most desirable and popular tourist
earth". As a huge mass of land in the Triassic period, i.e. about
destinations in the world.
200 million years ago, due to tectonic movements, it separated
Cenotes have always caused mixed feelings among divers.
the present Yucatán from the Gulf of Mexico, maintaining its
It is often the case that the perception of these amazing div-
position to this day. About 40 million years ago, the peninsula
ing sites is far from reality. People who do not like to dive in
was a beautiful developing coral reef beneath the water sur-
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
11
t r av e l s
12
travels
face. The Ice Age meant that the level of seas and oceans was
– it is there – depending on expectations, we usually decide
constantly rising and falling, so at the same time – the peninsu-
to spend our diving holidays. Playa del Carmen is the second
la was alternately emerging to the surface or was completely
most popular resort on the Caribbean coast after Cancun.
flooded with water. At a time when the water level was low,
The local beach is located exactly in the city center. There are
the process of creating underground caves began. Carbon
no multi-story buildings here, only low-rise buildings typical
dioxide from the atmosphere, dissolving in rainwater, formed
of a small town. It is one of the most cosmopolitan places in
carbonic acid. Due to the fact that the peninsula (from the
Mexico and the most exclusive resort of the Caribbean Sea.
point of view of geology) is made of sedimentary rocks, and
A large part of the hotels is covered with lush vegetation,
more precisely of porous limestones, carbonic acid penetrated
which, combined with the restaurant serving breakfast on the
into the ground, dissolving in the rock, and then carving what
beach, creates a truly Caribbean atmosphere. Playa del Car-
we were going to dive to Mexico – caverns and tunnels of
men is bustling with life – the ubiquitous pubs serve Mexican
endless caves. Dissolved limestone penetrating (as dripping
delicacies – tacos, quesadilla, burrito, chili con care, nachos,
water) into dry caves, for thousands of years, formed incredi-
enchiladas, always served with extremely spicy sauces made
bly beautiful stalatite and stalagmite formations. In 100 years
from various types of peppers, of which there are over 120 in
one karst formation grows by 2.54 cm. After the end of the
Mexico alone! The streets are colorful and full of music, and
last ice age, about 8 thousand years ago, the ocean levels rose
tourists are sipping mohito, margarita or trying a variety of
again, flooding the cave system. In the caves where the ceiling
Mexican tequila. Peace and relief from the hustle and bustle
was above the level and were only partially flooded with wa-
can be found walking in the evenings along the coast of the
ter – a space with air was created. Such caves – partially filled
Caribbean Sea, sitting on a pristine white beach with a bottle
with air in their upper part – at one point collapsed to form
of cold beer...
a reservoir, with a natural entrance to the underground river
The entire peninsula is "saturated" with diving centers be-
system left. This is how the cenote, i.e. a sinkhole was created,
cause diving tourism in this place plays a key role in the coun-
a circular depression of the terrain with vertical walls, filled
try's economy. Playa Diving Center is a diving center with which
with water, the mirror of which is at the level of the ground-
we have been cooperating for many years, and the center itself
water table. The Maya called the flooded caves "Dzonot" and
has been in existence for over 20 years. Knowledge of cenotes,
the Spaniards called the "Cenote" (the well). From the practical
logistics and perfect organisation make diving trips to Mexico
point of view (for a pragmatist), "dzonot" is the only source of
a permanent part of the calendar of our diving trips.
obtaining fresh water in the jungle, while the romantics will
We reach the dive sites by pick-up cars, each group with
also find in its meaning a transition to the mystical, spiritual,
its guide, who is also a driver. Depending on the selected ce-
magical underground world.
note – the journey takes from 20 minutes to 1 hour. Most of
When going to Mexico, on the Yucatán Peninsula, we have
the route is travelled on expressways, then we need to turn
a choice of several tourist destinations that are also a base for
into a gravel road and... lose ourselves in the jungle. A huge
diving. Tulum, Puerto Aventuras, Akumal, Playa del Carmen
limestone platform where water flows through underground
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
13
t r av e l s
corridors has created thousands of holes in the ground, several hundred of which are between Cancun and Tulum, on the famous Riviera Maya. Since 1980, hundreds of cenotes have been explored, but their penetration continues. Today, the three longest underground corridor systems in the world are: Ox Bel Ha (129 km), Nohoch Nah Chich (61 km) and Dos Ojos (56 km). Mostly you dive in several different cenotes that belong to one – the main karst system. Despite such a large
• Do not exceed the distance of 60 m (length) from the entrance to the cavern, • Follow permanent or temporary guidelines posted by a professional cavern diving guide • Have at least one light source with you, preferably the main and backup one, • Follow the rule of 1/3 of air consumption: 1/3 of the air in the cylinder one way, 1/3 for the return, 1/3 as a backup,
number of these reservoirs – only a small number, are avail-
• 80 bar cylinder = end of dive,
able for recreational divers, and a bit larger – for cave divers. It
• Maximum number of people in a group for 1 guide:
is important to know the difference between cavern and cave diving. A cavern is defined as an area of a cave that is within the reach of natural sunlight, extending up to 60 m from the surface. Being a cave diver – we are already entering a system of corridors that are not reached by sunlight, and the tunnels stretch for kilometers...
4 divers! • We dive with raised legs (calves) up and we swim breast stroke, • We do not dive in the Buddha system – we swim one after the other, following the guide and ropes, • We dive without decompression!
If we decide to dive in these types of places, we must follow a few rules, which are discussed by the dive guides before the first dive in the cenote.
Most of the dives in the cenotes take place at a depth of 7–15m, although as with every rule, there are exceptions. A good place to start diving in Mexico is the cenote of El Eden
• When entering the water, always have the flashlight
(Ponderosa). It is a large, beautifully situated cenote, reminis-
turned on – we turn it off only when leaving the cenote,
cent of a quarry or a charming lake. Its crystal clear water is
or when – when the guide allows it during the dive,
a showpiece of the cenotes – here we do not have to worry
• Always stay within the reach of natural light,
14
about poor visibility... maybe only in some cases, but I will tell
travels
Photo Łukasz Metrycki
more on that later on. Ponderosa is full of life hidden among
Dos Ojos (meaning "two eyes") is one of the most famous
large blocks of collapsed limestone covered with algae. You
corridor and cenote systems. As its name indicates, there are
can come across molluscs, cichlids, freshwater eels and turtles
two entrances to the inside of the cave. The corridors are about
there. What captivates divers from the very first moment is the
60 km long and are connected with 25 other cenotes. The spe-
incredible play of light – during the whole hour of diving, we
cial thing about this reservoir is that we make two dives in
swim in the rays of the sun, which are cut by branches and tree
the same place, but in two different corridors. One route runs
limbs, vines and algae wind everywhere, and when we swim
among the scenery of natural columns illuminated by the rays
through tunnels carved in the rock – we admire the first cave
of natural sun, at a maximum depth of 18 m, while the other
formations... The adjoining cenote is Tajma-ha, where diving
one leads to the cave – definitely darker and gloomier, full of
is more like cave diving. Here, solar reflexes no longer accom-
stalactites and stalagmites, between which a group of bats is
pany us throughout the entire dive. The dive goes through
sleeping. This is one of the most popular cenotes, unfortunate-
tunnels full of stalactites and stalagmites, where after turning
ly often visited by crowds. Between dives we rest in the shadow
off the flashlight it is completely dark. The corridors can be
of the jungle, and iguanas, sometimes snakes and spiders are
narrow, but they delight us with each new metre. Due to the to-
sneaking aroud...
pography of the route, constant depth changes are necessary
Dream Gate is a cenote similar to Dos Ojos – the accu-
here (here you will find out for sure at what level your buoy-
mulation of karst formations makes you dizzy! This beautiful
ancy is). As we sail along the corridors, from time to time we
cavern is part of one of the largest underwater cave systems,
notice natural skylights through which narrow beams of light
Sac Aktun. Due to the incredible number of delicate stalactites,
fall into its interior. There are also fragments of tree branches
stalagmites and columns found here, and the layer of mud
resembling a landslide. In addition, in some cenotes we have
that covers the bottom of quite tight and dark corridors, excel-
the opportunity to emerge in the so-called air bubble in which…
lent buoyancy is necessary here. People with claustrophobia
bats fly overhead. Impressions? Priceless!
are not recommended to dive here, but if you already decide
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on this diving spot – you will certainly not regret. 17 km from Tulum, in the middle of the jungle, there is a cenote different from anything else. It is called Angelita, or Ángel. The cenote was discovered in 1993. The diving place is a typical foiba, that is, a cenote not connected to any cave system. Angelita's cut-off from other caves meant that there was no water exchange. It has a diameter of 40–50 m and its depth reaches 60 m. Vertical walls stretch downwards and there is practically no rock protrusion here: diving takes place almost all the time in the depths. We begin to visit them them by descending to 40 m in complete darkness, where in the light of flashlights we notice fallen branches of trees. Gradually, we emerge to a depth of 28–30 m and suddenly we find ourselves on a cloud of hydrogen sulfide, which is clearly marked at a given depth. From the lake of sulfur fumes emerge branches of fallen trees and the top of a tulusu – a cone of rock material that comes from a cave's broken vault. Once again, we have an impression that we are flying! One of the cenotes waiting for us in Mexico to visit it El Pit. It is very important to take into account the weather conditions when planning a dive in El Pit. On a sunny day, to the deepest cenote of Yucatán, rays of light shine through the 10 meter entrance hole. El Pit is
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a well descending 55 meters, with a layer of silvery mist and
a depth of 30 m, we flow over a layer of hydrogen sulphide with
a tulus sticking out of the lake of mists like a mystical island!
dead trees. The ceiling is beautiful and has many stalactites
The gigantic cenote is merely a vestibule to the entire system.
at a height of about 12 m and a huge skyscraper. In addition,
At the end of the narrow corridor leading from the bottom
there is also the phenomenon of "halocline" – extremely pop-
of the cenote, a much larger cavern opens at 104 m, leading
ular and characteristic of dives in Mexican cenotes. Halocline
to the deepest ever discovered place in the Dos Ojos system
is a phenomenon of fresh and salty water being mixed. Conse-
and Yucatán (119.1 m). Diving starts from a platform about 10
quently, a shining effect is created which significantly reduces
meters below the ground, to which there are quite steep steps.
the transparency. Fresh water remains afloat because it is light-
People who cannot strain their spine can lower their equip-
er than seawater. When you first swim through the halocline,
ment down the elevator designed for divers, and after diving,
you will get the impression of a mirage – a blurred image that
pull it up again. While plunging into the water, at a depth of 10
disappears completely if we change the angle of our swim a bit.
meters, we come across a huge overhang with stalactites of
Don't worry – it's not nitrogen in our tissues.
various shapes and sizes. El Pit is definitely different from most
Tak Be Lum and Tak Be Ha are recently discovered and little
cenotes – the size of the wells is staggering, and the constant
frequented cenotes, but they have so much mystery and mag-
play of light creates the perfect scenery for photographers. At
ic… The entrance to Tak Be Lum is spectacular – a beautiful tree
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grows through the entire cave, in which the cenote is located.
the open part of the cenote Aktun, we swim through a natu-
The cenote is dark, but full of phenomenal dripstone forms
ral barrier of tree roots and leaves that separates the shallow
resembling pointed castle towers, fossils, and moreover – in
pond and the deeper sections of the cave. Behind the curtain
some places on the walls of Tak Be Ha we will see… crystals.
you can admire beautiful rock formations in the crystal clear
In the air bubble, we once again encounter a herd of bats,
water. In one part of the pond, there are living algae formations
spiders, and long, twisted ficus roots – which extend from the
for which this cenote is known. They are largely responsible
surface to the water level in the cenote!
for creating brilliant lighting effects. Among the lush vegetation
Nicte Ha or Aktun Ha (Car wash) are cenotes that, apart
here, you can see a wide variety of aquatic animals such as
from typical dripstone formations, enchant with lush and
molluscs, fish and turtles! At the end, we see a breathtaking
underwater vegetation, which is common in most caverns
"garden" of water lilies, safely separated by a railing. We will
and caves in Yucatan. The colloquial name of the cenote "Car
see a very similar scenery in Nicte Ha, which means "water
Wash", located near Tulum, comes from the fact that local taxi
flower" in the Mayan language, precisely because of the water
drivers used it to wash their cars. The site is a classic example
lilies growing in this reservoir.
of a water-filled funnel formation that looks like an exception-
Diving in the cenote of El Zapote turned out to be a real
ally picturesque lake from the surface. After departing from
jewel in the crown. Ruta de los Cenotes is a group of ceno-
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Photo Arkadiusz Majewski
luses. El Zapote is an absolutely unique dive site. Cenote was discovered by Vincente Fito – a famous explorer and enthusiast of diving. The official name of this place comes from the trees that grow around the entrance to the cenote. The water surface is 6 meters below the ground level and there are wooden stairs leading to it. This place is located in a park (of the same name) that is eagerly visited by tourists, which is why it is full of attractions (jumping platforms, zip lines, traces of Mayan culture) and amenities (bathrooms, toilets, showers). What makes Zapote a unique place are completely different karst formations than we will see in all other cenotes. Hells Bells are inverted limestone Photo Łukasz Metrycki
cones resembling bells. At a depth of 29 m below the water level, the walls
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tes that are located 15 to 25 km west of Puerto Morelos,
of the cenote diverge almost horizontally, forming a dome
some 36 km south of Cancun. There are such cenotes as: El
60 to over 100 m wide. Between 30 and 35 meters, specific
Zapote, Tortugas, Maravilla or Siete Bocas. All these ceno-
biochemical conditions allowed the karst formations to grow.
tes are foibas, or karst wells cut off from the system. They
The structures resemble bells, lampshades or trumpets in
are characterized by a considerable depth, a small diame-
longitudinal and round, elliptical or horizontal cross-section,
ter entrance and a very thick halocline layer. These cenotes
resembling a horseshoe. Diving surrounded by these amazing
contain large amounts of hydrogen sulphide, which is the
structures, reaching 2 meters in length (and constantly grow-
result of the decomposition of organic matter from the ta-
ing!), is unforgettable! Hells Bells are firmly attached to the
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deep. The remains of Pleistocene sloths are of course quite frequent finds on the Yucatán Peninsula. It should be noted that huge sloths from flooded caves on the Riviera Maya are usually assigned to the species Nothrotheriops shastensis. However, a team of scientists led by Sarah R. Stinessbeck, who examined the remains of a Pleistocene creature from the El Zapote cenote, identified a completely new species in it. Archaeologists from around the world have come to Mexico to study the 5-meter skeleton. Thus, El Zapote – has become one of the most interesting cenotes in Yucatán, and I no longer associate Hells Bells with the song AC/DC... The Yucatán Peninsula is a land without lakes and rivers in the standard sense, yet covered with tropical forest. They are powered by a system of groundwater, formed from precipitation soaking through porous, calcareous rocks. In places, the thin limestone cover collapses, then the waters rise to the surface – dark green lakes or shallow, turquoise lagoons are formed. There are about 3,000 of these forms – discovered so far, but only a small number is intended for recreational divers. Once upon a time, the water in the cenotes for the Maya rain god "Chaca" was sacred. For us (scuba divers) – nowadays – it is the greatest and most appropriate reason to visit Mexico. This is the only place on Earth where the water is so clear that we have the impression of gliding between stalagmites, stalactites ground, which is the horizontal roof of the cave dome, and
and stalagnates. It is a place where geology and diving occupy
are the product of archaea – single-celled, related to bacte-
a very important position, where entertainment, modernity
ria, living in a calcareous environment. It is a unique place
and tourism mingle with the land of ghosts, magic, mysterious
on a global scale! El Zapote became even more famous due
ancient Mayan cities.
to the discovery of the skeleton of a large representative of the Pleistocene megafauna by the aforementioned Vincente Fito. The skeleton, on closer inspection, turned out to be a giant sloth. The fossilized bones lay between 50 and 55 meters
“But I understand it now. – What do you understand? – How the birds fly. And why they love it.“ Mexico is not described – people believe in Mexico with passion.
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What is Waves&Ice? Text KLAUDYNA BRZOSTOWSKA
Photo Julia Ochs
Photo Berglind Jóhannsdóttir
live for their passions. The vast majority of stories are told by
Waves&Ice is a film project documenting an Icelandic expedition in which 6 exceptional women were involved.
W
e all share a passion for extreme sports and water. Each of us loves to spend time in the water and capture our image of the world on a camera. The
result of the two-week trip is a short documentary about women who met in Iceland and travel through the country together
men, about men and for men. This time, a film is being made about the strength and determination of women who make a place for themselves in male-dominated environments. Director Sabine M. Probst invited 5 women to the project: ` surfers and snowboarders: Elín Signý Ragnarsdóttir (@elinsigny), Ana Geppart (@anageppert) ` photographers: Berglind Jóhannsdóttir (@iamberglind), Julia Ochs (@juliaochsphoto) ` and Polish diving instructor and videographer: Klaudyna Brzostowska (@waterographyk)
following their passions. The aim of the project is the emanci-
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pation of the female sex in the outdoor environment. In recent
In April 2021 we flew to our destination. After several can-
years, a lot of documents have been written about people who
celled flights and a 5-day quarantine, the female crew went on
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Photo Berglind Jóhannsdóttir
ICY BATHS AND THE GROUND SWELL 5:00 in the morning, we are sitting in the cars and looking at the sea. Finding the perfect waves to surf is a challenging mission. You never know if the forecasts will come true. There are many factors that make a perfect wave – the ground swell (or swell): the direction and period between waves, the wind, the ground, Photo Sabine M. Probst
and of course the number of people in the water. The surfing environment in Iceland is very intimate, everyone knows each
their way. We set off in campervans, going round Iceland by
other and the arrival of even one new person in the water is an
famous road number 1. Iceland is a land of fire and ice that
event. We were very pleased with the fact that in recent years
gives no warnings. During our roadtrip, we experienced an arc-
more and more women have been "catching" the waves there.
tic storm, during which the wind reached speeds of up to 216
Elín was one of Iceland's first female surfers, and now she is
km/h. Elin and Beglind kept their cool, and their strength and
looking for more enthusiasts. Ana and Elín get dressed first
determination motivated me to continue driving. We made it,
and wax their surfboards by the vans. Julia and I jump into the
we found the shelter after several hours of crazy driving. Only
wetsuits and prepare the cameras by putting them in special
after this experience did I understand how much the weather
cases. Sabine and Berglind take pictures from the mainland.
influences the daily choices and behaviour of Icelanders. Trav-
They line up on a hill and look for the perfect frame – snow,
elling around this country is all like that, and although all plans
mountains, sea and a surfer on the wave.
are constantly adapted to the current meteorological forecasts
Our daily ritual during the trip was swimming in the sea.
– sometimes such surprises do happen. The motivation to get
Regardless of the weather, we jumped into the water with pho-
from Reykjavik to the east and then north was high. All this
tographic equipment. Depending on the place, our goal was
with the aim of finding the best waves, dream diving spots and
to either freeze ;) or take pictures of surfers, the texture of the
pristine snowboarding routes.
water and the breathtaking scenery.
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Photo Julia Ochs
icy waters is the reason why this place is so important to me. Since I started diving it was on my list. I started my diving career in 2016 in tropical waters. One day, while working in Indonesia, a colleague mentioned Iceland and diving in the cleanest waters in the world. He told me about a dry suit, a pile of stones, a great visibility – he outlined to me a picture of the famous Silfra. Since then, I dreamt of diving into the icy waters there. This became my little obsession. When I got proposals to participate in the project – I knew there would be no better opportunity. I bought a ticket to Iceland. WHAT IS (NOT) SILFRA? The Thingvellir National Park Area (UNESCO) is part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the longest mid-ocean ridge on Earth. It Photo Julia Ochs
is an unusual place where two tectonic plates meet – Eurasian and North American. Every year the distance between Personally, I love cold waters, but each time it is a challenge
the plates increases by about 2 cm. Silfra is one of the many
that I always decide to meet. It's ghastly cold at first. Then,
fissures in Lake Thingvellir that lies at the junction between
thanks to increased activity (I swim non-stop, kick with my fins,
tectonic plates. It is not true that while diving in Silfra you touch
run away from the breaker zone) and increased focus while
both plates. It's a marketing gimmick and an Instagram faux
filming and taking pictures, the cold disappears. Adrenaline
pas that tourists commit. However, this does not change the
and endorphins remain. Deep and regular breaths help me
fact that Silfra is a unique rift. It is filled with crystalline water
calm down and survive the next wave of the feeling of freezing.
that bursts into this rift through an open spring of melting
Fortunately, this also passes, and the feeling of satisfaction
water from the Langjökull glacier, Iceland's second largest gla-
and joy remains.
cier. This is why there is such clean water and visibility which reaches more than 100 m. Silfra is considered the cleanest
DIVING
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diving site in the world.
My goal during the Waves & Ice expedition was to dive in the
And so after a few years of dreaming of this particular rift in
Thingvellir National Park. Probably my passion for winter and
Iceland, I dived in 2°C, in crystal clear water, surrounded only
ADVERTISEMENT
Photo Klaudyna Brzostowska
by large stones. A very intimate environment that aroused a lot of emotions in me. With one part of Silfry – called the Cathedral – I was particularly delighted. It is a relatively deep, majestic and respectful place. Silfra definitely has something mystical in itself – it is fascinating and silencing. Many divers in Iceland say that there is no retreat from diving in icy waters: it is addictive and later it is difficult to dive elsewhere. When I survived it and felt this adrenaline rush, I understood exactly what they meant. MUTUAL INSPIRATION Several days of expedition turned out to be an unforgettable adventure, during which overcoming difficulties together and inspiring each other turned out to be the most important elements of the project. It's an honour to share what you love most with other women who show excitement and determina-
IT’S A COLD WORLD OUT THERE. BUT BARE KEEPS YOU WARM ON EVERY DIVE.
tion to fulfill their dreams. And that's why this video was made – to show other people that it's worth leaving home, looking for and following your passions. I hope we can inspire other women to take up extreme sports and crate bonds based on support, not competition. Special thanks to Polish companies that decided to support the Waves&Ice project. Thank you GRALmarine for lending me the equipment that allowed me to illuminate my underwater pictures. Thanks to ECN Diving Systems for putting BARE ultra warm drysuit at my disposal so I could stay in icy waters for longer. Thank you BlueArrow Patagonia Agent Polska for supporting the expedition with your products. Waves&Ice Movie Trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2AibmGZF2E Crowdfounding page www.indiegogo.com/projects/waves-and-ice/x/26596214
WWW.NURKOWANIE-ECN.PL
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Spain
THE COUNTRY OF WONDERFUL PEOPLE Text and photos BRUNON WALIGÓRA
My diving adventure in Spain began a bit by accident. I have been visiting this country for many years, visiting various regions practically every year. I was delighted by Cantabria, Rioja, Andalusia and Catalonia. The Canary Islands also turned out to be interesting.
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E
verywhere I have always experienced a great hospitality and openness of its fantastic inhabitants, and that is probably what amazed me the most in this country.
I got to know the Spanish language a bit and I was captivated by its melody, it allowed me to make great acquaintances that I cultivate to this day. It makes that all memories are still alive and very emotional. When I visited Catalonia for the first time in Lloret de Mar, while walking down the street next to the diving centre, I heard Polish. It turned out, that one of the women working there was
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wonderful places. It was amazing to dive in Lloret de Mar on St. John's night in June in flashes of fireworks on the surface. There is a huge accommodation base at good prices, available through e.g. bookingcom. It is best to go to Catalonia by plane to Girona, rent a car there at the airport and then, being mobile, to explore the enchanting coast of this region. You must see Barcelona, Cadaqués, Begur and Tossa de Mar. There are also brilliant dives at L'Estartit in the Medes Islands Reserve, which were already covered in the previous PD issue. I strongly encourage you to meet there with the greatest groupers I have ever seen in my life among the rainbow fields of gorgonians. Another place that I visit regularly is Andalusia in the Malaga area. This time, also using bookingcom, I found a perfect place to stay in Benalmádena. The aparthotel BenalBeach is located directly on the promenade and has its own water park and is situated close to the wonderful park Parque de la Paloma, where animals are on the loose. I recommend this place to divers who travel with their family and children. You will not be bored there! This time the dives were planned much earlier and due Polish. After a few sentences mentioned together, I decided
to their photographic nature, I asked for a guide only for my-
to dive with rented equipment. The owner of Dolphins Diving
self, so as not to inhibit the group. Of course, this was asso-
is Sergio Infante, who immediately took me for a dive in Tossa
ciated with higher costs, but the price was acceptable. I used
de Mar to a small cave at a depth of 20 m. On the way, I met
the Simly Diving base next to Torremolinos, where I met an
a few moray eels and a magnificent grouper. In the following
amazingly nice dive master named Martin Dias from South
years, I returned to Sergio with my own equipment for the next
Africa. He is an extremely pragmatic man and familiar with the
fantastic dives, e.g. the wreck of the Boreas ship at 30 m in
conditions prevailing there. I chose to dive in the Marina del
Palamos, the canyon at Cap de Sa Boquera in Canyelles, or for
Este bay reserve next to La Herradura, where the Sierra Neva-
very difficult dives in the post-storm wave to the cave Cova
da Mountains get into the Mediterranean Sea creating steep
del Dofi at a depth of 30m in Sant Feliu de Guixols and other
walls and corridors among fallen boulders and stones. This
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
25
place is under strict protection, and the animals living there
a drysuit for thermal comfort. The annual water temperature
are regularly fed, which means that we can be sure of meet-
ranges from 14 to 28°C. In May and June it was about 19–20°C,
ing them in a natural and not plundered environment. Diving
and below 15 m the depth will be only a maximum of 16°C. We
logistics is usually perfectly organised.
do two dives with a lunch break included.
After the morning check-in at the base and completing the formalities, we take the bus with packed equipment to the
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Remember to hydrate properly and, especially on warm days, it is worth taking 3 litres of water.
planned diving site, stopping on the way for a short break
As my passion is underwater photography, I asked Martin
for breakfast in a local restaurant. You go to the coast along
to focus on animals. I was very surprised by his knowledge of
a steep serpentine up the hillside among flowery properties.
the environment and fauna of this bay. Virtually every now
There is a large parking lot on site with a place to prepare
and then we came across new animals. There are octopuses,
equipment and photographic equipment. You can dive in the
cuttlefish, crawfish, shrimps, crabs, tubulars, groupers, wrass-
bay on its left side, where the bottom drops near the walls
es, scorpion fish and lots of other fish. Particularly noteworthy
to about 18–20 m, and on the right side, which in my opinion
is the multitude of species and a big number of nudibranchs,
is more interesting, where you have to walk a bit and swim on
which are the icing on the cake for a macro photographer.
the surface, which is tiring but rewarded with fantastic views
You usually have to take into account the undulations in this
of huge sunken boulders forming a labyrinth that leads to the
bay, up to 15m deep, which makes photography very difficult.
edge of the bay and the open sea at a point called Puna de
It is worth equipping yourself with a pointer and stabilising
la Mona, where you can meet large fish swimming, such as
your position in sand or rock crevices. Move with great care,
sunfish (Mola Mola), although quite deep at about 20–30 m.
maintaining perfect buoyancy with non-falling equipment (e.g.
It is worth considering choosing a 15-liter cylinder due to the
console, octopus) in order not to damage the environment.
distance to be covered underwater. Of course, I recommend
I would suggest swimming close to boulders so as not to miss
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the perfect camouflage of animals. Transparency in the water
a moment, you can see the extraordinary richness of life up
(visage) reaches 10–20 m depending on the weather and cur-
close, even on a fragment of a rock with a palm surface.
rents. There is a lot of slurry and plankton. It is worth taking
As in the case of Catalonia, it is good to go to Malaga by
a good light with you and of course a compass so as not to get
plane. Here, too, I encourage you to rent a car at the airport
lost in the maze of boulders covered with multi-coloured car-
that will allow you to visit the south of Spain and jump into the
pets of algae, sponges and corals. Pausing with attention for
water. I recommend a visit to Granada in the Alhambra palace and gardens, it is worth seeing the town of Ronda north of Malaga. In Benalmádena itself there is a beautiful sailing marina and the old part of the town called Benalmádena Pueblo. It is also close to Marbella and Gibraltar. On the coast there is the beautiful town of Nerja, and next to Torrox, where there is the Black Frog Divers diving base run by our Polish colleague Marcin Ogrodowski. They carry out recreational and training dives from the shore and from the boat, also in the described bay of Marina del Este. Night dives that guarantee meetings with predators are also a very good idea. I am already thinking about another vacation in Spain, although the situation related to travel restrictions due to Covid does not encourage to take such decisions. However, I hope that everything will be back to normal soon and you will be able to enjoy diving and meeting friends again.
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FINALLY, SOME USEFUL AND PRACTICAL INFORMATION: ` The average cost of accommodation in a 3–4 person apartment is 60–70 €/ day ` The average cost of buying food is low. ` The cost of renting a car in B / C class is 15–30 € / day + deposit insurance (you can have your own), by purchasing the fullcasco option on site, you will certainly get a new car
Don’t settle for less.
and free yourself from any problems. I recommend Firefly Car Rental – https://spain.fireflycarrental.com
Elite design. Top performance.
Public bus transport also works great on site.
With Atomic Aquatics, the only
DIVING BASES:
limits are your own.
` Lloret de Mar, Dolphins Diving, Sergio Infante – http://dolphinsdivingcenter.com ` Marbella and Torremolinos, Simply Diving, Simon Bell – https://www.simplydiving.com ` Torrox, Black Frog Divers, Marcin Ogrodowski – https://www.blackfrogdivers.com
www.nurkowa nie-ecn.pl PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
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My Attersee Text and photos MAXIME CHEMINADE Corrected by DORIS ASCHAUER
When I arrived in Austria a few years ago, it never crossed my mind that this could be an amazing place to dive. Missing the ocean, I decided to give the lakes a chance... and what I discovered blew my mind. Plant sidemount Attersee
Vienna
Salzburg
The dive sites are all accessible from shore. At each of them you can find a detailed map of the place you are about to dive, showing you the points of interest. At most dive sites you can find parking lots and toilets close to the entry points. Some even have a restaurant, making it the perfect place to enjoy a drink or a meal after diving. The visibility in the lake reaches 35 to 40 meters at its peak
W
ture at the surface ranges from 4°C during winter to 23°C in
ith more than 300 freshwater lakes Austria offers
the summer months. However, a few meters below the surface
plenty of opportunities for beginners and experi-
the temperature quickly drops below 10°C.
enced divers. But one lake has always stood out
for me – Attersee.
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in winter and 10 to 25 meters in summer. The water tempera-
Wildlife starts its activity in spring and thrives during summertime. Arctic and lake char, carp, trout, perches, and pikes
Attersee is one of the largest lakes of Austria, situated in
can be found at most dive sites. Attersee is not only rich in fish,
Upper-Austria. It has more than 24 official dive sites and with
but also in vegetation. Dive sites such as Kohlbauernaufsatz
its depth of 169 meters it allows for a wide range of diving.
give you the opportunity to explore a variety of both. At the
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beginning of May you might even see trees blossoming underwater, making for quite a fascinating spectacle. There is plenty of history in Attersee. Archaeological surveys uncovered prehistoric pile dwellings dated to the 2nd century BC. While theses sites are classed UNESCO World Heritage and not open to divers, reconstructions can be explored at dive sites Hinkelsteine, Dixi and Hausboot. Like in an underwater museum, information signs with facts about the pile dwellings can be found in various languages. On the east side of the lake at the dive site Dixi the reconstruction of a stilt house waits to be discovered at around 9 meter depth. Always take a look under the house, plenty of small fish love to hide here in the dark. Close by at 22 meters depth sits the Dixi sailboat, where large pikes can be seen. If you decide to go to the west side of the lake, the dive site HausBoot has a lot to offer. It got its name from a sunken pleasure barge which is not only one of the highlights of this dive site, but also the literal translation of the word HausBoot. A short swim from the wreck another reconstitution of an UNESCO site can be explored, the pile-dwelling underwater forest. Both of theses points Dixi with information pannel
Dixi outside
Dixi
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HausBoot
Wall
Splitshot
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Underwater forrest
of interest are suitable for beginners, however experienced divers will find them worth a visit as well. With its maximum depth of 169 meters Attersee is a paradise for technical divers. As technical diving is becoming more and more popular, helium based blends are now available in local dive centres. The most popular dive site for dives beyond recreational limits is Schwarze Brücke. It got its name "black bridge" from the colour of the water under the bridge, which always appears deep black, even in summer when the shore of the lake is sparkling in turquoise colours. Right when entering the water you are welcomed by impressive rock formations and after only a few minutes your dive continues along a breathtaking wall. At around 20 meters depth, European eel can be found hiding in small cracks. This dive site is popular thanks to the myth of a maximum depth greater than 150 meters. While the wall ends at roughly 60 meters, reaching 100 meters is possible by continuing towards the centre of the lake. At these depths, the remains of a 1942 VW Kübelwagen (a light military vehicle) can be found. Even after years of diving Attersee, it never ceases to amaze me, which is why it became one of my favourite places to dive in Austria. With its large potential for adventures it is the perfect spot for any dive holiday in Europe.
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
33
k n ow l e dg e
Snoot in underwater photography Text and photos MICHAL ŠTROS
"Madonna and Child"
34
knowledge
Snoot RETRA LSD Ultimate attached to the YS-D1 Sea & Sea strobe
snoots evolved and a laser was added to commercial devices
Shooting in locations optimal for taking macro shots is conducive to fascinating encounters with the smallest and usually the most isolated inhabitants of the seas on the planet.
to better locate the direction of the light beam (this type of conical tube did not use the pilot light of the strobe to locate the direction of the beam). The size of the holes was limited by a series of bolted tubes of different diameters. Although the operation in domestic conditions seemed simple, there was a problem under the water, how not to lose individual tubes and be able to possibly quickly screw them back into each other. The surface illuminated by the strobe using these
M
snoots was relatively large and its shape was not a perfect circle, had no sharp edges and the laser often left red points
ost of these monsters or tiny beauties are seen on
in the photo. Other snoots used two optical fibres to conduct
unremarkable, often litter-covered sandy bottoms.
the light from the strobe. Although this seemed beneficial, it
The photographed objects are not only filigree, but
was difficult to aim both snoots at a given motif.
also sometimes effectively masked with algae or sponges of
Each such conical tube is, however, constructed in such
similar colours and textures. In such a situation, it is worth
a way that it does not produce light, but only allows the light
having a so-called "snoot" (a conical tube) – a special attach-
beam to be focused and directed. The highest quality snoots
ment installed on an external strobe in order to illuminate the
cannot limit the intensity of the light, because then they must
object itself, avoiding the disturbing background. Snoot gives
be compensated by a higher sensitivity (ISO) or a larger ap-
the photo a black background, which builds drama, brings out
erture. These types of compensations can lead to increased
the colour, contrast and vividness. Shadows are also created
noise and too much contrast in the photo. In my opinion, the
to enhance the creative qualities of photos.
best commercially available snoot at the moment is the "RETRA
The first individually constructed snoots looked like funnels
LSD Ultimate Light Shaping Device" (RETRA for short, www.
and reduced the illuminated surface of the subject. Over time,
retra-uwt.com), an optical lens system that transmits the light
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
35
k n ow l e dg e
Canon 80D in Ikelite Underwater casing and Snoot RETRA LSD Ultimate attached to YS-D1 Sea & Sea strobe
without reducing its intensity. The RETRA interchangeable
36
WHEN IS IT WORTH USING SNOOT AND WHEN IS IT
snoot masks have different diameters and creative patterns
BETTER TO GIVE IT UP?
to define the size and shape of the light beam. The masks slide
Although focusing and directing the light beam with a snoot
extremely easily and quickly into the snoot slot and can be
can produce astonishingly interesting results, sometimes
changed in no time underwater. Each mask is equipped with
underwater conditions are not ideal for snoot photography.
a magnet and there are also two magnets on the RETRA side, so
These include in particular intense sunlight or strong currents.
you can temporarily store unused templates there. RETRA has
The pilot light passing through the conical tube indicates where
worked great for me and it proved to be a product with high
exactly the object will be illuminated, but trying to see it in the
quality finishes. The shooting distance from the main motif in
sunlight will most likely be futile – especially around noon at
the case of RETRA – compared to other snoots – is relatively
depths up to 10 m. Believe me, when you shoot with a snoot,
large (about 15 cm or more, measured from the front edge of
it is hard to be more frustrated than when you try to look at
the snoot), which is a huge advantage for very shy creatures.
the sandy bottom, where your pilot light is precisely directed,
RETRA can be mounted on the strobe with the use of easy-to-
and you cannot see anything as the rays of the tropical sun are
use clasp and holds very stable.
constantly flashing over your head. At depths from 15 meters
Although the principle of operation of the conical tube is
down, the sunlight is less intense, so that the pilot light of the
extremely simple, its perfect application is a completely dif-
strobe is easy to see even during the day. At small depths (up
ferent story. For this reason, in this article I will try to describe
to 10 m) I recommend using snoot with pilot light only early in
not only the difficulties of underwater shooting with snoot, but
the morning or late in the afternoon. In addition to better vis-
also how to effectively deal with these limitations.
ibility of the pilot light, there is another reason why it is worth
knowledge
On the hunt (yellow fish yellow angler fish)
Nudibranch Thecacera sp.
photographing with snoot in the morning or late afternoon.
side of the object. When the strobe is installed on adjustable
During the day, at depths below 15 m, in sunny weather, you
arms, the mobility of the mounted snoot is severely restricted.
need to set a shorter shutter speed of 1/250s and a larger ap-
In practice, this means that the clamps must be loosened and
erture (f/16-29) to obtain a black background. For this reason,
re-attached in a constant and highly impractical way each time
it is difficult to achieve an out-of-focus background by setting
the snoot is positioned. For this reason, I prefer to mount the
a small lens aperture (f/2.8-4) without overexposing the photo
strobe on the camera handle with the possibility of triggering
at the same time. All these considerations come down to the
it with a button. The final positioning of the strobe over the
conclusion that the best visibility of the pilot light and the most
subject is then carried out with my left hand, while my right
favourable snoot orientation (regardless of the diving depth)
hand holds the camera and operates the trigger. If you have
are obtained during night dives.
the opportunity to use your diving partner's help to precisely
Another obstacle in snoot photography is turbulent and
manipulate the snoot and position it, under favourable circum-
foamy water (and all currents). Even though my diving friend
stances you will get rid of one problem. The big disadvantage,
or guide assisted me with directing a narrow beam of pilot
however, is that your diving partner will not be able to guess
light in such conditions, the uninterrupted surge was a real
what you see in the viewfinder, and all this greatly increases
nightmare for me – not only because of the need to hold the
the risk of improper lighting. Another downside is the loss of
camera steadily, but above all because of the need for per-
the ability to illuminate only selected parts of the subject, which
fect focus on the smallest objects like e.g. two-millimeter eyes
would usually lead to stunningly creative underwater photos.
or rhinophores.
Sometimes it is impossible to predict at all whether snoot will work in a given location full of macro motifs. In addition,
LOCATING THE SNOOT
during the dive, it often happens that the conditions change
Basically, the snoot can be placed over, in front of or on the
(e.g. currents, turbulent and foaming water or intense sunlight
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
37
k n ow l e dg e
Nudibranch Flabellina sp.
Chapiteau (squat shrimp Thor amboinensis)
at a shallow depth) or you simply decide to photograph some-
sity light in order to obtain optimal lighting. Sometimes I also
thing else that is not suitable for snoot. For this reason, I always
move the snoot away from the motif without changing the
have two strobes attached to my camera casing – on the left
intensity of the light. I do all these tests at the beginning of
side with a snoot and on the right side only with a diffuser.
the dive, before I start the actual shooting. Later I only apply
To take pictures without snoot, I place the right strobe above
slight adjustments to camera settings, light intensity and snoot
the camera casing or on the right side, at a different distance
distance to the subject.
from the lens. Snoot photography, however, is not only limited to macro shots, but is also used for impressive wide-angle
IMAGE EDITING
underwater shots with fisheye lenses. In these cases, the left
I take all underwater photos in RAW file format and then pro-
strobe with a snoot is used to intentionally illuminate an in-
cess them at home in Camera Raw and Photoshop (Adobe).
teresting, smaller foreground subject, creating contrast with
In Camera Raw, I first balance white and then adjust the ex-
a dimly lit background (the right strobe is turned off completely
posure, contrast, light and shadows, texture changes, clarity,
or set to low light intensity).
and colour balance. In later steps, I continue processing, e.g. by cleaning the background, increasing sharpness and crop-
SETTING THE STROBE INTENSITY
ping photos in Photoshop (all photos in this article were taken
To get a black background, I set the shutter speed to 1/150-
on Bali – Seraya Secret / Melasti / Amed and Padangbai with
1/250s (depending on the macro lens type) and use an ap-
a Canon 80D camera with 60mm or 100mm macro lenses, with
erture of f/11-29. Occasionally, however, I use a deliberately
strobe YS-D1 Sea & Sea and RETRA LSD Ultimate Snoot).
small aperture (f/2.8-5.6) to achieve the effect of a blurred
38
background. Since I set the strobe intensity manually, I first
FINALLY, A PIECE OF GOOD ADVICE
shoot a few randomly selected motifs using different inten-
Underwater (macro) photography has never been as flexible,
ADVERTISEMENT
DIVE STRONG. DIVE ZEAGLE. Every mission. In every condition. Zeagle has your back. Nudibranch Doto greenamyeri
creative, versatile and relatively simple as it is using a snoot. Nevertheless, it is worth getting acquainted with snoot photography first in ideal conditions, for example in a swimming pool, and then try to take such pictures in the sea. Nevertheless, you should be patient if you want to become the authors of beautiful underwater photos – not only with the use of a snoot. To do this, you must take dozens of photos of the same object. The best results can only be achieved by following the well-known proverb: "Practice makes perfect". More information about the author is available on his website: www.michalstros.cz German translation by Alina Lizakowska
www.nurkowanie-ecn.pl
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
39
freediving
Static apnoea PERFORMANCE FACTORS Text and photos ALEŠ KOŠTOMAJ
Competition in static apnoea
ABSTRACT
Ever since the first deep diving competitions were organized, there has been debate about when the ultimate limits of human apnoeic performance will be reached, and which factors will determine these limits. Divers have thus far surpassed all former predictions by physiologists in depth and time. The common factor for all competitive apnoea disciplines is apnoeic duration, which can be prolonged by any means that increase total gas storage or tolerance to asphyxia, or reduce metabolic rate. These main limiting factors can be broken down further into several physiological or psychophysiological factors, which are identified in this article.
ing. This means submerging under water without additional external devices which would allow for breathing. With practice, one can make progress in breath-hold diving very quickly. Unfortunately, the methods and strategies of such diving are less known in the scientific field i.e. to scientists and are difficult to explain because they are currently difficult to research in the aquatic environment with existing technology. STATIC APNOEA Success in static apnoea depends solely on holding one’s breath, since a diver rests on a pool’s water surface in a relaxed manner. The ability of holding one’s breath is the basis of all other disciplines and methods of diving. There are three factors which determine the limit of holding one’s breath:
INTRODUCTION The word apnoea is derived from the Greek word a-pnoia and means “without breathing”. The very origin of the word has no connection with water but in modern terminology the word apnoea is used as a synonym for breath-hold diving or free-div-
40
1. total amount of oxygen (O2) in the body (lungs, blood, and tissues); 2. ability to overcome hypoxia (deprivation of oxygen) and hypercapnia (excess of carbon dioxide); 3. metabolic rate.
freediving
Static apnoea
1. Total amount of oxygen in the body lungs
by diluting the carbon dioxide (CO2) obtained from the blood. In combination with specific thorax stretching exercises, lung packing can also be used in practice as a method to increase
Large lung volume has been repeatedly described as a differ-
lung volume. However, packing should not be the main mech-
entiating factor among breath-hold divers. The usefulness of
anism for long-term increasing of lung volume.
large lungs is known both in static apnoea as well as in deep dives or other deep disciplines. One study established the av-
blood
erage vital lung capacity (VC) of 7.3 liters in 14 top divers which
Blood is a liquid tissue whose function is, among others, to
is about two liters more than in the control group’s subjects of
carry O2. It consists of the intravascular fluid or blood plas-
similar age and body shape. The individual VC of top divers is
ma, and blood cells. O2 and CO2 are transported via red blood
related to their diving performance. This leads to the question
cells or erythrocytes. The red blood cells are the most nu-
of whether the enlarged lung volume is due to self-selection
merous among blood cells. Most of oxygen (98%) is carried
or whether it reflects the changes caused by practice. VC gen-
bound to hemoglobin in red blood cells while a small part of
erally increases with growing up, however, numerous studies
it is dissolved in the blood itself. The amount of blood in div-
show that specific practice may increase VC. Other parallel
ing mammals is higher than in other groups of mammals. In
studies also show high effectiveness of swimming practice and
seals and sea lions, blood represents 10–20% of their body
exposure to high altitude on lung volume.
weight, while it amounts to only 7–8% in terrestrial mammals.
influence of various breathing techniques
Human blood volume can be increased by increasing plasma as an adjustment to endurance and heat training. The increase
Lung packing (the glossopharyngeal insufflation maneuver)
in erythrocytes will consequently have a small effect on the
is a commonly used method to effectively increase lung vol-
overall increase in O2 volume in the body. Short-term chang-
ume. Normal maximal inspiration is determined by maximal
es are caused by splenic contraction in apnoea and hypoxic
contraction of the inspiratory muscles and thorax, and by lung
respiration.
compliance. By using the oral cavity and tongue to press small
Top breath-hold divers have higher levels of hemoglobin in
amounts of extra air down into the lungs, which are already
their blood than cross-country skiers and people not training.
filled with maximum inhalation, the diver can increase its vol-
The reasons for that lie either in their practice of breath-hold
ume by up to 4 liters. The disadvantage of this maneuver is
diving or in their self-selection. The number of erythrocytes in
the consequent increase in pressure in the lungs which re-
blood is regulated via erythropoietin (EPO) which is produced
duces venous inflow and can lead to loss of consciousness
by hypoxic kidneys. It is known that exposure to higher alti-
if the diver does not dive in time. The extra volume of air will
tudes increases the production of erythropoietin. Less than
prolong apnoea by providing additional stored oxygen (O2) and
a decade ago, however, it was shown that the erythropoietin
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
41
freediving
production is also increased by practicing breath-hold diving. With more intense and specific breath-hold diving practice and a diet high in iron, hemoglobin levels can be further increased, leading to higher capacity of O2 transport and CO2 removal. Breath-hold diving, and deep diving in particular, can cause stronger stimuli than altitude for erythropoietin formation.
spleen contraction Spleens of diving mammals are an additional storage site for erythrocytes. This stock is activated with prolonged apnoea. Spleen contraction in humans
Competition in static apnoea
in apnoea was first observed in ama-divers (traditional breath-hold divers in Asia who collect pearls
first phase lasts until the onset of spontaneous contraction
and shells). Less than a decade ago, it was found that the best
of the respiratory muscles (the start of CO2 accumulation).
breath-hold divers also have the largest spleens with a volume
Spontaneous contractions of the respiratory muscles cause
of up to 600 ml. The difference in contraction between the
discomfort and psychological burden, and as such also mark
smallest and largest spleen in elite breath-hold divers corre-
the boundary between the two stages of apnoea. The second
sponded to 30 s of apnoea duration. Spleen contraction is an
phase, however, also depends on individual motivation and en-
active contraction process caused in part by hypoxia and not
durance. It has been shown, that long-term practice of apnoea
due to the diving reflex, as it requires multiple breath-holding
affects not only the duration of apnoea but it also prolongs the
dives to fully develop.
duration of the first, initial phase.
tissue
the beginning of the struggle phase. Elite breath-hold divers
O2 accumulated in tissues is also an important source of O2
distinguish as many as three phases of apnoea: the second
for aerobic metabolism. Tissues store only 2–3% of O2 which is
struggle phase is followed by the third, fighting phase in
stored in the body. It is the most abundant in myoglobin (Mb)
which the desire to breathe is further increased by the com-
in muscles. In marine mammals the levels of myoglobin can
bined stimuli of hypercapnia and hypoxia. In this stage, divers
be 10 times higher than in terrestrial mammals. Myoglobin
do not relax but use muscular strength to maintain apnoea.
in muscles is important in all forms of breath-hold diving, in
Developed psychological tolerance to strong contractions of
particular in dynamic disciplines (swimming distance).
the respiratory muscles in the last, fighting phase is crucial
2. Ability to overcome hypoxia and hypercapnia
for successful static apnoea. It can only be improved with longterm practice. Divers use hyperventilation in various forms to lower the
phases of apnoea
CO2 content in the body and prolong the first phase of apnoea.
The duration of apnoea depends on the ability to overcome
However, hyperventilation represents an increased risk of loss
hypoxia and hypercapnia. A mild respiratory response to CO2
of consciousness, as the O2 level does not increase to the same
has been reported in submarine rescue instructors, ama-div-
extent as the CO2 level decreases, and thus the risk of uncon-
ers, and underwater hockey players. In people who do not
sciousness at the end of apnoea is increased. Hyperventilation
dive, however, CO2 is the predominant factor in stimulating
is, therefore, not recommended.
respiration and stopping apnoea. Divers can tolerate higher levels of hypercapnia and hypoxia.
42
The majority of inexperienced divers break the apnoea at
hypoxia and brain function
Apnoea is divided into two phases: the initial ‘easy-going’
Numerous studies show that practicing apnoea lowers the
phase without the necessity of inhalation, and the final
required level of O2 needed by the brain. During compe-
struggle phase, in which the accumulation of CO2 is the main
tition divers often experience a hypoxic loss of movement
reason for the gradually stronger need for inhalation. The
control and sometimes even lose consciousness, but they
freediving
quickly recover with the help of their safety diver. However, the question arises as to whether this causes any longterm damage of brain functions. Studies of neural functions of breath-hold divers have not shown bad long-term effects of apnoea practice on brain functions, which is thought to be due to regulation of protective stress proteins. At present there is no evidence that loss of consciousness in apnoea is harmful to the human brain. Many divers who partake in competitions know where their individual hypoxic limit is and Static apnoea
that only prolonged apnoea training can move this limit towards a higher value.
3. Metabolic rate
fasting and nutrition Fasting is a method which is often used by divers to increase
The third limiting factor for the duration of apnoea is the in-
their diving performance. In terms of energy expenditure, fast-
tensity of metabolism. The lower the rate of metabolism, the
ing has been shown to reduce the resting metabolic rate by up
lower the O2 consumption and the longer the apnoea can be.
to 17%. The best results in static apnoea can be achieved while
cardiovascular diving reflex
fasting, which most divers already take advantage of in training and competitions. However, regardless of these findings, some
Irving (1963) was the first to observe a diving reflex in humans.
breath-hold divers take carbohydrate supplements just before
The first main effect of the diving reflex is the contraction of
competitions to increase their performance. It is surprising,
the blood vessels in muscles which are furthest from the lungs
that while many top breath-hold divers consider their nutrition
or brain (in fingers and toes). The other main effect is slowing
as extremely important, others ignore its significance.
down the heartbeat. Later it was established that there are, as a consequence, two additional effects: maintaining O2 and pro-
relaxation techniques
longing apnoea. The diving reflex is triggered by any apnoea.
In a sport where minimum oxygen consumption is more im-
A complete reflex response can only be expected when im-
portant than maximum oxygen consumption, it is obvious that
mersing the face, especially the forehead and eyes. The diving
relaxation techniques have a significant impact on results. This
reflex begins after only thirty seconds of apnoea.
is especially evident in static apnoea. Special relaxation exer-
The diving reflex is not changed with multiple series of apnoea, but it is enhanced by prolonged apnoea practice.
temperature The intensity of the diving reflex response is most influenced
cises with the emphasis on breathing techniques are derived from yoga and adapted for apnoea. Before competitions they are used by almost every top breath-hold diver. Yoga based cyclical relaxation techniques are expected to reduce O2 consumption by 32%.
by water temperature. Colder water affects the response rate of the diving reflex. Warmer water, however, is more important
CONCLUSION
for the duration of apnoea. Cold-blooded animals have their
In comparison with untrained individuals, breath-hold div-
metabolic rate and O2 consumption connected to their body
ers can significantly increase the total volume of O2 in their
temperature. Mammals respond to lower body temperatures
body and the ability to overcome hypoxia and hypercapnia
with faster metabolism and, above all, with shivering. When
with regular practice. The metabolic rate can be reduced with
shivering, muscle cells use twice as much energy which in turn
special meditation techniques. At present, we do not yet have
shortens apnoea. Anyone who can withstand a temperature
enough knowledge about the highest possible human poten-
drop without shivering will likely be able to perform a pro-
tial in breath holding. However, some factors which influence
longed apnoea.
its duration are already known in some marine mammals.
Ama-divers were once considered to be people who adapt-
These factors will have to be investigated also in humans. The
ed best to colder water. Studies show that the use of neoprene
best breath-hold divers believe that the maximum limit in static
suits has led to de-acclimatization. Better insulated individu-
apnoea is somewhere around 15 minutes.
als use less energy to shiver and allow the body to lower its temperature instead of wasting energy to keep the body tem-
REFERENCES
perature constant. Body temperature affects cardiovascular
For readers interested in additional references and details,
responses which are important for the length of apnoea.
please contact me through email.
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
43
planet earth
Plastic
AN ENEMY OR A FRIEND? Text LAURA KAZIMIERSKA Photos KAROLA TAKES PHOTOS
Although it has been with us for only over a century, it has quickly dominated every area of our lives. Plastic is for some people the personification of all evil, for others salvation.
44
O
ne thing is for sure, wherever you are today, take a look around and you will surely find something of the most durable material in the world.
A SHORT HISTORY
The common name of plastic comes from plastic materials that are easy to model and take various shapes. Who would have thought that it was due to the growing popularity of the
planet earth
Our human tendency to irresponsibly clean up
al turned out to be wonderful,
after ourselves can get us
although not for making balls
into trouble.
but for imitating many fabrics
We risk losing not only many
and natural materials. The rev-
species in the ocean but also
olutionary discovery prompt-
on land.
ed scientists from around the world to look for cheaper and durable materials from which to make everyday objects, previously available only to the wealthy.
The beginning of the 20th century, the mechanical revolution and scientific progress in the field of chemistry, facilitated the creation of new solutions and the first synthetic plastics found their way into industry. At the same time, the outbreak of World War II strengthened the use of such a resistant and durable material. The plastic craze lasted until the early 1960's when it was first spotted in the ocean. The enthusiasm of scientists quickly turned into the question of what consequences this indestructible material will have for our planet? Unfortunately, it was too late. Big concerns appreciated a huge drop in plastics production and transportation costs so much that it was impossible to withdraw the lucrative invention for the sake of the environment. IS PLASTIC SO FANTASTIC?!? Considering the price, the variety of uses and durability, plastic as a material is one of the best inventions of the 20th century. It revolutionised the economy and life of each of us. It is mainly thanks to it that we have made technological progress in the last 50 years. Without it, there would be no medical equipment or even the beloved diving equipment. Therefore, it is worth remembering that not all plastics are the same. And what bothers us and litters every inch of our planet are plastic packaging and the so-called disposable products. The problem with plastic today is that we went into raptures over the new material too quickly without thinking about the consequences. Cheap, flexible material has replaced virtually every aspect of functional living, from furniture and clothing to a toothbrush. Many countries have started introducing laws to ban the production of plastic bags to show that the problem of game of billiards, and at the same time a drastic decline in
environmental pollution can no longer be ignored. And so
the population of elephants, whose precious ivory was used
the plastic bag has become a modern symbol of the fight
to make billiard balls. Searching for new solutions and mate-
against plastic.
rials was supposed to protect and facilitate life on our planet.
Plastic bags are made of non-renewable resources and
Natural plastics, the so-called polymers, can be found in
are a major contributor to climate change. Most plastic bags
plants and animal shells or skeletons. The first plastic pro-
are made of polypropylene, a material made from petroleum
duced at the end of the 19th century was of natural origin and
and natural gas. Greenhouse gases are produced during pro-
was derived from cellulose ubiquitous in nature. The materi-
duction, which exacerbates our current problem of climate
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
45
planet earth
change. The packaging sector is responsible for almost half of the world's plastic. Plastic bags are harmful to wildlife and marine life. Birds, land and sea animals, including turtles, often confuse plastic
From plastic bags, packages and bottles, between which sea turtles and shoals of fish swing agile, to fishing nets left behind, which become a pointless fishing tool, destroying coral reefs and all other creatures on the way.
bags and other plastic materials with food. When they con-
More and more often, while diving, I encounter the prob-
sume these plastics, their digestive systems become clogged,
lem of coral reef pollution and instead of enjoying the beauty
causing health infections and even suffocation. Animals can
of nature, I tirelessly collect garbage in BCD pockets or spe-
also easily become entangled in the plastic.
cially designed mesh bags. During the rainy season, we often emerge from the sea of plastic packaging. Last year, despite
46
IT IS A NEVER-ENDING STORY
the lack of tourists, we managed to collect over five tons of
Indonesia is a country of 17,000 islands, mostly surrounded
rubbish on our weekly beach cleanings, and this is just the
by coral reefs, with a variety of underwater wildlife that can-
tip of the iceberg.
not be found anywhere else in the world. Despite its unparal-
Plastic in the ocean also serves as a floating transport de-
leled natural wealth, it is also a country that, along with China,
vice that enables alien species to hitchhike to unknown parts
is the greatest contributor to the pollution of the oceans.
of the world, threatening biodiversity. Global warming con-
Living on one of the small Indonesian islands that can be
tributes to this process further by making once inaccessible
walked around in two hours, I quickly realized that walking on
areas like the Arctic friendly to the colonisation of invasive
the beach has little to do with collecting seashells, but rather
species that can be very harmful to local species.
a collection of plastic items thrown by the sea. It happened
Microplastics (plastic particles ranging from microscopic
everyday! Both on and below the surface of the water, there
to 5 mm) that abandoned fishing gear and other plastic debris
is evidence of human invention, for which I am ashamed and
are among the greatest threats to the marine environment.
it is difficult for me to justify all our progress.
As are they to the entire planet.
planeta ziemia
The average person produces a quarter of a kilogram of plastic waste WHAT THE EYES CANNOT SEE...
every day. No wonder
first step in the right direction. However,
Living away from nature, it is easy to forget
the oceans are filling up
one of the most effective options that
where our trash ends its journey. It is also
with waste!
we could all do as members of this frag-
easy for us to blame the third world coun-
ile ecosystem is to be responsible for our
tries for the pollution of the ocean. The truth is, each of us contributes to the problem. And the sooner we realise this, the easier it will be for us to make a change. And there are plenty of reasons! Plastic is a health hazard not only to sea creatures, but to all
garbage. When we have the option, we should try to avoid buying products packed in plastic, choose packaging that can be recycled, and bring your own bag when shopping, use a reusable bottle and, of course, do not clutter.
of us. Research confirms that our health suffers at every level of plastic products manufacturing. Chemical compounds in
A NECESSARY EVIL
plastic can contribute to infertility, diabetes, heart disease and
The addiction to plastic worsens with each passing year. All
all kinds of cancer.
electronic devices require plastics. Life without plastic is also
The microplastic found in the seafood and fish we consume
life without cell phones, computers or the Internet. If it weren't
is able to enter our body and disrupt the hormonal function.
for plastic, it would not have been possible to write or read
Plastic particles have been found in waters, sediments and
this article. But that's not all, aluminum soda cans are lined
even the deepest parts of the oceans. A study of over 700 spe-
with plastic resin. Otherwise, the drink would have corroded
cies from microscopic zooplankton to huge marine mammals
within three days. The paper cups from which you drink your
has shown that they possess microplastics. In addition, plastic
coffee to go also hide a thin layer of plastic. Tea bags would
particles have even been found in plants!
not be possible without plastic either, as they are sealed with
How to protect yourself from consuming poisonous sub-
polyethylene. Plastic packaging supports the safe distribu-
stances? Limiting your consumption of fish and seafood is the
tion of food over long distances and minimises waste, keep-
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
47
planet earth
80 %
of microplastics come from land-based
ing food fresh for much longer,
to prevent bioplastics from turning into environmentally dam-
sources such as bottles
and is a barrier to bacteria. The
aging methane-generating plants, a gas much more harmful
and bags.
amount of food packaged in
to the climate than carbon dioxide.
plastic has increased dramatically since the pandemic.
THE FUTURE DEPENDS ON US
Plastic is the main part of most
The truth is that plastic will be with us for the next millennia.
kitchen utensils. Plastics are also an import-
And the only option to limit the use and cleanse our planet
ant part of our medical technology, used to make glasses, den-
is to completely ban the production of packaging, straws or
tures, in many different medical implants and other devices
single-use bottles that can be easily replaced with another ma-
that help us stay alive and stay in good shape.
terial. The textile industry also needs reform, but our appetite
Without plastic, we would have been stuck in 1870, still
Governments draw huge amounts of money from large con-
sulate wires. But at least we wouldn't pollute the Earth with
cerns that contribute to environmental pollution, so taking care
disposable coffee cups, water bottles, toothbrushes, and other
of the environment is our responsibility, the consumers. Every-
plastic items. And plastic garbage would not affect thousands
one is able to make a difference by choosing environmentally
of marine and terrestrial species.
friendly products. If all of us did the same, we would live in
It is imperative to develop alternative plastics that are as
48
for possession must also decrease.
using non-durable and dangerous varnish and rubber to in-
a cleaner, more beautiful world.
light, durable and comfortable as conventional plastics. One of
It is therefore worth getting involved in actions promoting en-
such solutions are plastics of plant origin, i.e. bioplastics made
vironmental protection, campaigns against plastic in social me-
of corn starch or sugar cane.
dia, organising cleaning of beaches, forests or favourite diving
But it also has its downsides. Huge capital investment, cul-
sites. Replace everyday objects made of plastic with an ecolog-
tivation fields and specialised recycling points are necessary
ical alternative. And also buy local and seasonal food products.
planet earth
The last decade has shown a huge transformation in social consciousness, and as a result, many small businesses and start-ups have started to meet the growing demand for products that are not harmful to the environment. Although sometimes it is more expensive, it is worth supporting these brands in the name of protecting our planet. Crowdfunding platforms such as Plane Heroes connect people from all over the world, creating an alternative form of income for local communities and cleaning organisers, promoting at the same time environmental care. Pressure on government and local authorities is just as necessary. Research shows that bans on making plastic bags showed a 64% drop in their production! What follows? Reduction of the carbon footprint associated with the production of plastics compared to when there was no ban on these products. As divers, we can also support organisations such as Project AWARE or Shark Guardian, organise underwater clean-ups or register abandoned fishing nets through the Global Ghost Gear initiative application. In fact, we should all be involved. Making simple changes to your daily life is necessary before it is too late and we annihilate ocean life and even our own.
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
49
planet earth
Cranes
LONG-LEGGED ELEGANCE Text and photos WOJCIECH JAROSZ
Thanks to long legs, cranes feel great even in deeper water
grams "The Bestiary" (full name: "The Bestiary, in which shapes,
These birds can hardly be caught in an awkward posture. Whether they are standing, strolling on a wet meadow or flying among the clouds – they always do it all with a noble grace.
cases and customs of various people, animals and birds are described, especially falling to our present day" year 1562), and much later Jan Brzechwa dedicated a poem to the crane – admittedly with the heron, but nevertheless in the title the crane comes first. It could take a long time to list the items of literature, but this is not what this text is about. To end the topic of cranes inspirations, I will mention the wonderful beauty of oils on the canvas by Józef Chełmoński: "Cranes" (also
W
– cranes" (1910), "Cranes in the morning" (1913) and "Cranes
mance full of choreographic flavors, and exquisite ones
in the clouds" (1913–1914, unfinished work), which are an ex-
at that.
50
known as "Departure of the cranes", 1870), "Greeting the sun
hen they start to dance, they create a magical perfor-
tremely successful continuation of the painting trend consist-
This is why people have always been delighted with cranes.
ing in presenting scenes from the life of cranes, started by our
It is impossible to count the references in literature, and in
ancestors. Their prehistoric works in the form of wall paintings
order not to be groundless, I will mention Homer's Iliad as the
can be admired in Europe, Africa and Australia. Perhaps just
first. The crane is also mentioned in the Bible, which can be
one more word about the Golden Palm-winning lyrical war
interpreted as an indicator of its good recognition, that is, of
drama by Mikhail Kalatozov "The Cranes Are Flying" (1957), in
regonising it as a representative of the avifauna well known
which the title V-formation of the cranes, appearing at the be-
to man. In the former Poland, Mikołaj Rej of Nagłowice of Oksza
ginning and at the end of the film, is one of the most important,
coat of arms wrote about the crane in his collection of epi-
symbolic motifs. But let's get back to the more natural issues.
planet earth
When mating season begins, cranes forage in pairs
Dancing is for cranes not only a form of courtship – it is
ionable grays combined with white and black, with the icing
even a form of communication. Not only the birds that are
on the cake in the form of a red spot on the head of adult
ready for mating season dance (it is worth adding here that
birds. The sophisticated image is completed by an exquisite
birds of opposite sexes usually form pairs for life), but also
tail, which adorns the bird when it is not flying, and in fact
young individuals. For them, it is a way to enter the social
when its wings are folded. This rear plume is formed by char-
life of the flock, and at the same time support their physical
acteristically formed remiges, and the tail of the crane itself
development. Cranes are social birds, especially outside the
(made of feathers called rectrices) is completely inconspicuous.
breeding season. Therefore, living in large groups forces these
The mentioned colours are not the same for every species of
birds to use behaviours that facilitate functioning in a group
crane – the description applies to the common crane (Grus
and dance is one of the tools used for this purpose. So you
grus), the only one found in Europe. We will get back to the
can see many birds dancing at the same time. Their repertoire
rest a little later.
includes jumps, marches with outstretched wings, bends, and
Apart from dancing and presence, we associate cranes with
even tossing objects found on the ground above them. All this
a distinctive voice. Their calling, known as clangor, which can
with their inherent lightness and grace, of course.
carry for miles, is for many one of the earliest heralds of the
Cranes are graceful because of the way they move, but they
coming spring. Birds of both sexes sing in this way, both during
are also charming in appearance – long legs, a long neck (just
migration and during mating season. The calls of the respond-
like my wife) plus chic and very tasteful colours. Always fash-
ing female and male carry among the fields and meadows,
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
51
planet earth They eagerly use the sown fields when foraging
when the birds, busy foraging, do not want to lose touch. The loudness of the crane's voice is the result of their unique anatomy. They have a trachea that is looped and recessed in the sternum. This internal structure makes it possible to produce very loud sounds. Probably a sound wave resonance specialist could suggest whether the crane's trachea is closer to a baritone saxophone, French horn or maybe a sousaphone. Where can you see cranes? Of course, it is the easiest to spot them in the sky during migration. It is so easy, because about 20% of the global population of the common crane migrates through Poland. The characteristic V-formations not only can be seen, but also heard quite well. Cranes often stop near water reservoirs, especially in their shallow parts, eagerly foraging there. Both plant and animal food – as they are omnivorous – they can get in meadows, fields, floodplain forests – wherever they can forage in peace. The cranes do not particularly tolerate the presence of humans who disturb their peace. They are very skittish and it's hard to approach these birds so that you can see
years ago. The reason for this is the increasing number of these
them well with the naked eye. There is certainly a lot of truth
birds in Poland. The Common Breeding Birds Survey, carried
in the old saying "watchful as a crane" – it is a known truth that
out since 2000, indicated the crane, next to the green wood-
proverbs are the wisdom of the nation. Spectacular images of
pecker and the common redstart, as the species showing the
thousands of birds in one place can be seen at the so-called
highest growth tendencies in relation to the population size.
gatherings. During the flights, the cranes often rest in flock,
This is very good news!
first setting up sentries, and they can do it in flocks of several
Cranes can be admired on all continents except South
dozen, several hundred or even many thousands of individ-
America. In Africa appear increasingly rare wattled crane
uals! Observations show that for this purpose birds most of-
(G. carunculata) and the blue crane (G. paradisea). In Yakutia
ten choose places located in river valleys, by ponds and lakes.
and West Siberia there lives (unfortunately also less and less
Nowadays, seeing cranes is a bit easier than a few or a several
numerous and now critically endangered with extinction)
A pair of common cranes in flight
the Siberian white crane, also known as the snow crane (Leucogeranus leucogeranus). It is the representative of this species that holds the record for longevity – the bird named Wolf lived 83 years, an achievement for which it was entered in the Guinness Book. In addition, in Asia you can see the Demoiselle crane (G. virgo) – fortunately not endangered, the beautiful Manchurian crane (G. japonensis) and no less beautiful: the hooded crane (G. monacha) and the whitenaped crane (Antigone vipio), which are also members of the Endangered Species Club... This club has been happily abandoned in recent years by a black-necked crane (G. nigricollis) living in the Tibetan Plateau and northern India.
52
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Younger specimens do not have a distinct red cap
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OCEANIC IS BUILT FOR ADVENTURE. ARE YOU?
Whether they are walking or resting, cranes are always alert
À propos Tibetan Plateau – it is worth mentioning that ordinary cranes can rise high enough to fly over the Himalayas! Of course, they most often choose the lower passes, but they can fly up to 10,000 meters above sea level! In India there is still a crane... Sarus crane, also called Antigone from its the Latin name (Antigone antigone) – it is the tallest flying bird in the world (up to 178 cm high, 280 cm wingspan). In North America, however, we can come across the Sandhill crane (A. canadensis) and a much less numerous whooping crane (G. americana). The list is closed by a silver-gray representative of the Antipode crane family – the Australian crane (Antigone rubicunda). Just like you, dear Readers, cranes also like water. So when you are at the water's edge, look out for them as they wade on their long legs. When you hear the distinctive clangour coming from the sky, look up to admire these beautiful birds.
www.nurkowanie-ecn.pl
a r c h a e o l og y
Surgery, Disappearing Wrecks and Big Money Text and photos MACIEJ SZCZEPAŃSKI
Whenever a surgeon reaches for a scalpel or a patient undergoes an MRI scan, there is a high probability that both of these tools were made from steel that dates back more than 70 years.
I
t all connects to the late period of WWII, when the Americans used an atomic bomb for military purposes for the first time. Steel manufacturing has not changed much from
that period, the Bessemer process was replaced with the BOS (basic oxygen steelmaking) process, although the air (oxygen in case of BOS) in both is obtained from the atmosphere. However, unlike today, air used in pre-war steel was not saturated with radioactive particles. For this reason such steel, which possesses better properties and durability, is desired all over the world for manufacturing such products as specialist surgical equipment or novelty items, like Böker knives manufactured from steel sourced from the wreck of the German battleship
54
KMS Tirpitz. Another sought metal is phosphor bronze1, which
to the fact that the law prohibits salvaging wrecks designated
was used for propellers, among other things.
as war graves.
Growing value of “old” steel is responsible for the increasing
However, there are also companies that do not care for
problem of marine looting. Companies with legal approvals for
these laws and salvage steel from the bottom of the seas and
salvaging wrecks comply with all legal standards. They salvage
oceans all over the world. In recent years many fishermen and
steel from wrecks specified in their contracts – mainly from
sailors on the Java Sea and the Pacific have been reporting un-
vessels deliberately sunk by their crew or destroyed through
marked vessels with rusting pieces of metal on board. In 2017
scuttling at Scapa Flow, shortly after World War I. This is due
the combined forces of the Indonesian and Malaysian author-
ADVERTISEMENT
KMS Tirpitz, sunk in 1944 Source pl.wikipedia.org
ities arrested the crew of a Chinese dredger, with fragments of World War II warships on board. Wrecks in those waters are graves for thousands of Japanese, American, British and Dutch sailors, which is why it is important to take actions to stop this illegal activity.
HMS Repulse, sunk in 1941 Source en.wikipedia.org
The list of damaged wrecks continues to grow: in 2014 the wrecks of HMS Repulse and HMS Prince of Wales, officially declared as mass graves, were destroyed, and precious metals (phosphor bronze, steel and aluminum) were taken. Both vessels are the final resting places for over 800 sailors. Malaysian divers are aware of this practice and regularly document the destruction of wrecks, sending their photographs to proper authorities. Thanks to a photograph of the HMS Perth wreck, which is the grave for 350 people, the Australian authorities conducted talks with Malaysia, insisting on introducing additional patrols in the region where the Malaysian navy operates. However, this may be insufficient. A lot of wrecks have been lost forever, leaving only a sandy imprint on the bottom of the sea. According to David Yiu, the director of the Friendly Water Seaports Pte., the dredgers that salvage metals illegally desecrate bodies as well, as the corpses of the sailors from the wrecks are found hundreds of meters from the sinking site. Although director Yiu, like many representatives of the Australian or UK government, has also been fighting for years to ensure better security for the wrecks, in any possible way, it is nearly impossible without the proper approach from international authorities. It is assumed that more intensive looting in these regions is connected not only to growing prices of increasingly rare “low-emission” steel, but the general increase of scrap metal prices in China. According to The Guardian, even a wreck of a small vessel (e.g. a destroyer) may be worth approximately GBP 1 million. Current technology allows scientists, historians and archeologists to find
Technically … the best. Hollis gear stands up to any condition. So, how deep will you go?
wrecks even in places inaccessible to divers; however, the same technology is used by people looking for profit, even at the cost of disturbing the final resting place of thousands of sailors. References: https://www.theguardian.com/world/ng-interactive/2017/nov/03/worlds-biggest-grave-robbery-asias-disappearing-ww2-shipwrecks https://www.dw.com/en/scavengers-pillage-wartime-wrecks-in-southeast-asia/a-39027260 https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/feb/09/images-reveal-three-more-japanese-wwii-shipwrecks-torn-apart-for-scrap
www.nurkowanie-ecn.pl
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
55
a r c h a e o l og y
How did it start?
HISTORY OF UNDERWATER ARCHAEOLOGY
Text MATEUSZ POPEK
Photos ANDRZEJ PYDYN
How did it start? Who was in the beginning? These and similar questions are asked by historians around the world. However, it is often extremely difficult to establish the beginning, the first spark from which it all began.
S
hould we consider the achievements of Jacqu Costeau
ni ordered the lake to be drained to facilitate their exploration.
as the beginning of diving? Or perhaps those of classic
Unfortunately, the monuments did not survive World War II.
divers, or maybe sponge divers? Despite such an am-
There are also reports of the use of diving bells to extract
biguous beginning, the whole community assumed that we
objects from the water. Much has changed with the intro-
would recognize a French officer as the forefather of all divers.
duction of the diving helmet, which allowed for a long and
The same is the case with underwater archeology. Its gen-
relatively safe stay under water. This is how divers excavated
esis is a process rather than an event. However, as in diving,
the cannons of the Mary Rose wreckage in the 19th century,
one man was recognized as the father of this science: George
which later became the most famous nautical monument in
F. Bass, who died in March 2021. The death of this man was
Great Britain.
the inspiration for this article, as we must realize that histo-
Another powerful change for underwater explorers was the
ry is always created before our eyes and the characters who
creation of scuba diving by Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Emil
have changed the history are still among us. We should not
Gagnan. Compared to the classic helmet, the equipment of
let the memory about these people go away, because they
these two inventors was light and easy to transport. Therefore,
it is extremely precious, and we know how fragile life can be,
it was easier for divers to reach and retrieve underwater ob-
especially in recent years.
jects. However, until the 1960s of the 20th century, it was hard
The interest in sunken objects dates back to the earliest
56
to talk about scientific approach to these actions.
times. Of course, before the invention of scuba diving or sur-
It was in the sixth decade of the twentieth century that there
face-supplied diving helmets, humans could do well under
was an explosion of scientific projects that could be called un-
water by holding their breath. Sources say that as early as the
derwater archeology. In Sweden, the Vasa ship was excavated
15th century in Italy, apnea diving was carried out to extract an-
and its maintenance started. The Danes discovered sunken
cient monuments from Lake Nemi. These monuments, namely
Viking ships at Skuldelev, and in Turkey, George Bass began
the wrecks of two Caligula ships, became famous after Musolli-
exploring the wreckage at Cape Gelidonya.
archaeology
George Fletcher Bass was born in 1932 in Southern Califor-
cargo including a bronze bar in the shape of animal skins. It
nia. From an early age, he was interested in the sea and as-
was this wreck that became the showpiece of INA and Georg
tronomy. He began studying English at John Hopkins University,
Bass for many years, actually remaining the oldest discovered
during which he came to Sicily, where he was delighted with
wreck of a ship until recently.
ancient monuments. This was also the reason for the change of
Bass did not limit his interests to the wrecks of the Med-
the faculty to archeology. After graduation, he spent two years at
iterranean Sea. He investigated wrecks in Lake Champlain
The American School of Classical Studies at Athens (ASCSA), then
in the USA or sunken ships in the Sea of Japan. He was very
joined the army in 1957, spending two years in South Korea.
active both as a field archaeologist and also a prolific writ-
In 1960, he was about to start research on the Cape Gelid-
er. He published many books and scientific articles. During
onya, but at that time he was not yet able to dive. Just before
his 39 years of work, George F. Bass was the beneficiary of
the expedition, he had only taken a few diving lessons. This did
36 research grants from the National Georgaphic Society. In
not prevent him from becoming the leader of the expedition
2002, he was awarded the highest honour that a scientist
in a short time together with Joan du Plat Taylor. In the 1960s,
can receive in the USA – National Medal of Science. He died
he also conducted research on the Yassiada wreck in Turkey,
on March 2, 2021.
and on the Kyrenia wreck in Cyprus.
George Bass certainly did not create the underwater arche-
He perfectly used the success of the first underwater
ology as we know it today alone. There were a lot of people
archaeological research and in 1972 he became one of the
around him who, along with him, turned the extraction of the
founders of the Institute of Nautical Archeology, and a year
underwater treasures into science. However, it can be said that
later he was elected the president of this organization. The
he was the spark that fueled this machine and inspired people
1970s of the twentieth century was a time of dynamic changes.
to further research. My former supervisor and promoter met
In addition to establishing an organization dedicated to un-
Bass and was with him on research. I did not have the oppor-
derwater archeology, Georg Bass transformed the Museum in
tunity to get to know Bass, but I was at his lectures, and the
Bodrum into the Museum of Underwater Archeology, where
book with his autograph is standing right next to me as I am
materials from his excavations were presented.
writing these words.
The 1980s was primarily dedicated to exploration of the Uluburun shipwreck, an incredible ship from a Bronze Age with
Let us remember that the pioneers are among us and let us try to preserve their memory while they are still with us.
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
57
review
Nine 1/2 weeks with MK2i OR A SUBJECTIVE GARMIN MULTITOOL REVIEW Text WALDEMAR RYDZAK
Photos REDAKCJA
This was no love at first sight. There was no technical infatuation here either, as expected by Jacek Michno, the head of the Extreme-Dive Diving Center at Głębokie Lake (one of our two testing locations), during our discussion on MK2i at that time. It was simply an affair – brief, initially rough, turbulent, which ended in a breakup, leaving a sense of emptiness.
58
MK2i is Garmin’s top second edition dive computer. As an
we also got two Descent T1 wireless transmitters for test-
alternative, MK2 – a stripped version of MK2i – is available,
ing. As an editorial team, we opted for something more than
deprived of some features and materials. But stripped does
just a typical review, merely enumerating MK2i’s features.
not mean bad. Simply not everyone needs a titanium case
You can find the specifications on our competition’s or the
or wireless transmitter support. For testing, we got an MK2i
manufacturer’s websites, but you won’t find any accounts
– with a sapphire crystal and titanium case, covered with
of customer experience there. What we wanted to present
a diamond-like carbon layer. There were no signs of wear or
were the feelings, emotions and observations regarding the
tear on the watch, no scratches on the case after the tests,
everyday use of MK2i with T1. And this is what you will find
so Garmin is keeping up to their standard. Upon request,
in the following paragraphs.
review
Already from the beginning, our affair with MK2i was burdened
directly fitted with a T1. Sometimes proper installation requires
with the trauma of our previous relationship. While Fenix HR
a short high-pressure hose connecting the first stage with the
series did have some clear advantages, it also had some flaws,
T1. The goal of a manual is to help the least experienced diver
including a serious one: long GPS readiness waiting time. Imag-
prepare their equipment for diving. It seems like everything is
ine you are going for a run with a bunch of friends, start the
there, but… there are surely areas for improvement. For exam-
training recording function and you wait, and wait, and wait.
ple, in the Polish version of the MK2i manual, the T1 installation
I won’t be describing the differences between the Fenix and
instructions on page 5 say: “…Confirm the regulator is depres-
Descent series, as these are two completely different product
surized and detached from an oxygen cylinder*”. Now that’s all
ranges, having very little in common. I also won’t cover the
folks, as in the English version, this part reads “Confirm the reg-
differences between the current series as compared to the
ulator is depressurized and detached from a scuba cylinder”.
previous edition of Descent. When preparing for my evaluation
A scuba cylinder vs. an oxygen cylinder. This has been the topic
of MK2i, I thoroughly studied other users’ opinions and vid-
of many discussions within the diving community regarding
eo reviews both of the current and the previous series. Apart
journalists’ diving expertise, and here – a major manufacturer
from describing my experience and facing my concerns on the
with a translation like this.
GPS operation speed, I also wanted to see whether in my tests I would be able to con-
In our configuration, T1 has been screwed
firm others’ critical opinions of the MK2i.
directly to an Apex ATX100, which was at-
Sometimes the users’ swipe was based on subjective feelings, misreading the manual. In such cases, it is hard to blame the manufacturer for faults that are actually not there. Some other times, however, the comments were most certainly in place. Which option would I apply to Garmin MK2i? The first step following purchase, of course
When preparing for my evaluation of MK2i, I thoroughly studied other users’ opinions and video reviews both of the current and the previous series.
tached to an air cylinder, although the specifications suggest the MK2i should also work fine with O2 at concentrations up to 100%, as well as with air, nitrox or trimix; 1 bottom gas and up to 5 decompression or back-up gases. A scuba cylinder can contain different gases and unfortunately the Polish translator did not seize the opportunity to boast their expertise. I wonder if there are more
besides unpacking, is setting up the com-
“peculiarities” of this kind in the manual. In
puter. For testing, we got an MK2i but with-
the second configuration we used for test-
out a user manual. I suddenly felt like a “pro”. Trust me – the
ing, the design of Tecline’s regulator body and HP port avail-
only type of diver on our editorial team is the perfect diver,
ability forced us to use a high-pressure hose of about 10 cm
so why would we need a manual anyway? So when we were
of length. This was not a major problem, but an important one
trying to setup satellite positioning and positioning according
to consider before going for a dive, because if your friendly
to current time location for the first time, instead of selecting
diving center does not have the right equipment and you did
the basic GPS+Glonass or Galileo setup mode, I selected Ultra-
not foresee such a situation, the first MK2i installation might
Trac. As a result, I got a signal searching prompt, suggesting
end up in a failure.
to take the watch into an open area. I took the chance but three 30-minute sessions gave no result. I returned to the ba-
As such, pairing T1 with the computer is quick and easy, al-
sic settings and managed to successfully complete the initial
though must be done under pressure above atmospheric pres-
setup. I never came back to the UltraTrac mode, so it is hard
sure. Without it, the device switches into sleep mode to help
to tell at what intervals MK2i determines its position in that
conserve battery time. It seemed annoying at first, but it is just
mode. Thus, I figured the manual should also be covered in
a matter of getting used to it. You don’t pair your device very
the review… and it is. I managed to find one on the Internet
often and a longer battery life might make it up to you for the
and read it. A well-designed user manual lets you move on
initial inconvenience. My frustration was due to the fact that
to actually using the product faster, a poorly designed one
even in my old veteran Suunto Cobra there was a time switch
can ruin your first impression and make it impossible to use
for battery saving, which was activated once it detected con-
all features properly. In the case of Garmin, I think the Descent
ditions that would suggest you’re actually not diving. Yet there
T1 transmitter manual requires some optimizing. I mean the
was a pushbutton for waking the computer up when on the
alternative methods of installing the transmitter to the first
surface. I wanted to quickly pair both transmitters while still
stage. From the very beginning, a new user should be shown
at home, before going for a dive. In order to do that, however,
pictures, clearly showing them that not every first stage can be
I had to attach the regulator with T1 to a filled cylinder. It only
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
59
review
had 44 ATM but this was enough to wake the transmitter. After
grown from 1.2 to 1.4 inch. The legibility of the displayed data
detecting pressure, T1 switched to standby mode very quickly.
improved and the manufacturer-declared operating time
The MK2i pairing procedure took less than a minute. You can
increased. Default color settings, the contrast and backlight
customize your transmitter name. This is useful not only in
intensity were good enough out of the box and no changes
a one diver setup, but also for a group of friends with identical
were necessary. In this regard, my bad experience comes from
Garmin gear who want to keep track of gas consumption and
another computer I am using. I bought a Nitrox version, hop-
remaining gases during their dives not only for themselves
ing for a good backup unit. As the piece came from a Polish
but also for the rest of the group. We tested it between two
manufacturer and initially had good marketing, this computer
divers and it worked. Although we were unable to confirm the
was flying off the shelves in Poland. Now it collects dust on
maximum range of 10 meters for the transmitters’ communi-
my shelf. Just waiting there for a moment when I can put it
cation with the computer. Sometimes I was losing access to my
up for sale. MK2i belongs to a different price segment and is a different device.
diving buddy’s sensor when some 3 meters away, some other times the reading was stable at 4 meters. The manufacturer indicates a number of conditions to be met in order to reach the maximum, so I would just assume the group should keep closer for their own comfort. Comparing depth readings from different computers (Suunto, Genz, Garmin) I couldn’t notice any differences. The only thing was the gas pressure indicated by Suunto Cobra mounted on the hose, which was 3 ATA less
After more than two months of testing, I can confirm Garmin Descent MK2i is free from the childhood ailments the MK1 users had been complaining about.
than the reading of MK2i mounted directly
Of course, 1.4 inch is not much compared to a couple of inches in some classical dive computers. The display with MK2i is similar in size to Shearwater Teric (1.39 inch) which some people believe to be a direct competitor for Garmin’s MK2i. In my opinion, however, the differences between both devices are bigger than those indicated in diving reviews. Looking at the specifications, Shearwater Teric is comparable to what MK2i has to offer. The price difference is minor – no more than a few hundred PLN, which is not
to the first stage. The difference was stable at all times, so
a game changer in equipment worth a few thousand PLN.
this couldn’t have been some temporary reading glitch. Our
Garmin MK2i, when compared with Shearwater Teric, seems
test dives were not decompression dives. The algorithm used
to offer a number of advantages that might be decisive for
in all Garmin computers of the Descent series is the proven
physically active people. It is a multitool – like the famous Vic-
Bühlmann ZHL-16c with gradient factors. By default, upon
torinox pocket knives. It can be used not only for diving but
detecting a depth of less than 1.2 m, the computer quickly
also for other sports or tourism. My general sense of content
ends the dive and treats the next descent as a new dive. This
in this matter is ruined by Garmin’s strong emphasis on playing
time is customizable, so my remark concerns default settings.
golf. You can switch it off in the wrist watch settings but golf
With reed dives where you explore the littoral, crossing the
still comes round like boomerang in the app.
1.2 m barrier may happen more than once and take less time than designed by the manufacturer. Divers who count their
During my two months of testing the MK2i, there were no
dives will probably appreciate such a conservative approach,
situations where I would frantically look for the power cable.
others will have to remember to change the settings. When
Clearly enough, you do have to charge it, but at surprisingly
the dive ends, the “no fly” message may be displayed in the
long intervals for a watch with that many features/sensors ac-
main screen in a graphic and digital form. Seems nothing, but
tivated on purpose at the same time. Yes, I did that in order
this is one of the differences between MK2i and classical dive
to asses battery drainage. What surprised me pleasantly was
computers. The latter rest in a box/ on a shelf and you’re jog-
not only the discharge rate (e.g. 2% during a 40-minute dive
ging your memory to remember the flight ban. In the case
with two T1 paired, which translates to approximately 33 hours
of computers with a wrist watch feature, this information is
of operation vs. 32 hours declared by the manufacturer) but
visible at all times.
also the charging speed. After my experience with Fenix models below series 6, I expected many hours of charging. Mean-
60
After more than two months of testing, I can confirm Garmin
while, whether I was charging MK2i from my car’s lighter outlet,
Descent MK2i is free from the childhood ailments the MK1
a computer USB port or a standard charger, I felt that reaching
users had been complaining about. Most of them are gone,
a 100% charge was fast. Of course my phone charges faster, but
including software, battery life or display size, which has
I wouldn’t expect the same performance from a dive computer.
review
MK2i is so much more than just a dive computer. The watch
Luckily, you can force-reset the sensor. Unfortunately, if you
has Garmin Pay. Combined with a Revolut card, it worked
activate manual measurement a short while after the auto-
seamlessly. There were no issues with rejected payments. Of
matic measurement, most times displaying readings from the
course, as a safety measure, it is better not to connect your
automatic measurement will be displayed. Although you are
main card but rather a prepaid card or a low-limit card. The
prompted that a new saturation measurement was initiated.
payment feature felt comfortable. When jogging or cycling,
In such a case just return to manual measurement, but only
I never took my cards or wallet. After my session, I was able
after a dozen or so minutes.
to buy myself something to drink or eat also without connecting my watch with a phone. Payments are secured with a PIN code which needs to be entered every 24 hours or each time the watch is removed from the wrist or signal from the pulse sensor is lost. If worn constantly on your wrist, MK2i becomes your personal trainer, suggesting your everyday workouts. Though you are of course free to just ignore the suggestion. The functionality seems like a good solution for people who don’t plan but would like to do some sport in a more conscious way. Personally, during the tests I used MK2i for ice swimming (there were a couple of occasions in early March), jogging and cycling – both on roads and cross-country. At home, I used it for controlling my blood saturation. At this point, you should take into account that the pulse oximeter in Garmin is not a medical device. A body contact disruption or a loosely secured strap takes your 98% saturation down to, say, 89% (the lowest reading I noticed). Such a reading is not for the faint-hearted, especially if you treat it as support in COVID diagnostics.
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
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review
During underwater tests, I haven’t noticed any such errors. It never crashed and was stable. Well, this computer is addictive, although probably its charm wouldn’t work on everyone.
What other problems did I have at the beginning? Music playback and navigation apps based on third-party maps available in the Garmin IQ store. I found a solution for the music issue on discussion groups concerning Garmin Fenix. For an unknown reason, if you have Deezer on your watch and the install Spotify, the latter wouldn’t work. Uninstalling Deezer did the trick. The same issue concerned using the Locus app. A software conflict forced me to uninstall a similar app from a different vendor. At the beginning of my review I mentioned that the second edition of Garmin Descent includes two models – MK2i and MK2. The “i” in the name is crucial. Not only due to the differences between models from the same series. The danger is out there during the purchase as well. Should buying e.g. on Ebay cross your mind, be alert not to buy a set which is not really a set. Some canny sellers combine Descent MK2 (the stripped version) with a Descent T1 transmitter, while T1 is dedicated for MK2i only. I am writing about price traps on purpose. In my opinion, the manufacturer pricing for the European market
a smartwatch. Of course, what is an advantage for someone,
is a bit excessive. While it is understandable that Garmin is
can be a disadvantage for someone else. MK2i wasn’t tested in
seeking to avoid intra-Union import, due to EUR to USD rate
different gear and gas configurations, so we cannot be sure it
discrepancies some thrifty consumers might be looking to op-
wouldn’t surprise us in a negative manner. The manufacturer
timize their purchasing costs. When I was writing this review,
secured themselves against such circumstances, with a dis-
1898 EUR (1499 EUR for MK2i + 399 EUR for T1) was, according
claimer displayed during the first setup, informing about the
to Revolut, approximately 8627 PLN for a set of MK2i and T1.
possibility of faulty readings during operation. Other manu-
Buying the same set in a shop with USD prices, you would have
facturers put such information in small print, so I appreciate
to pay 1898 USD (1499 USD for MK2i + 399 USD for T1) which
Garmin for the courage. During underwater tests, I haven’t
gives 7092 PLN. Quick math and we have a difference of 1535
noticed any such errors. It never crashed and was stable.
PLN. This is quite a lot, although the manufacturer probably
Well, this computer is addictive, although probably its charm
has some justification for that.
wouldn’t work on everyone. Which, by the way, is the beauty of the free market – a decent selection of alternative goods
After 9 1/2 weeks, my romance with MK2i came to an end.
and attempts to tailor the products/services features to the
What remained was a sense of emptiness – in my heart and
diverse consumers’ need.
on my wrist. The yearning of my wrist soon passed, as MK2i
62
was replaced by my old trusty Garmin Fenix HR. And my heart,
*https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-4A2D3019-
well… my overall experience with this multitool is very positive.
BA14-49BD-B371-4214D187D493/PL-PL/Descent_Mk2i_OM_PL-
It is a full-fledged dive computer, a full-fledged sport watch,
PL.pdf
Rehasport - motor medicine
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tips
& curiosities ACADEMY
Regulator PART 2 “DISPELLING THE MYTHS”
Text WOJCIECH A. FILIP
Does the diving world end if I drop my regulator with the connection unsecured into the water (the connection usually is a “screw” that is screwed into the tank valve)? Is puncturing the dry chamber diaphragm dangerous? In the second part of the article on regulators, you will read, amongst other things, why flooding a regulator is not a problem and how puncturing the dry chamber diaphragm may increase your diving safety...
To begin with, let us officially explain the issue of flooding the
Each regulator with the designation EN 250:2014 may be
regulator with water. Why officially? Because this has been
flooded with water. It may actually be thrown into salt
precisely described in the standard applicable for approving
water and left there for 8 hours, which means it would be
regulators for use.
completely flooded. Then, when taken out and left to dry for 16 hours (without rinsing)... the regulator must work properly. Does this mean that I may flood my regulator's interior with salt water without any consequences? Unfortunately not. The regulator will work properly, but it will start to corrode if left with salt water inside for longer – and that is something we don’t like. Conclusion no. 1 A regulator may be flooded with fresh or even salt water and it will continue to work Conclusion no. 2 You need to read the entire article to learn what to do to ensure not only that it will work, but also that it will not corrode
Photo Bartek Trzciński
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tips & curiosities
ACADEMY
What is the EN 250:2014 standard?
your breathing without making any moves, then... you will
Regulator manufacturers call it the “new” standard, as it has
perform work related to using a very large muscle called the
replaced the old EN 250. It is a collection of information that
diaphragm and many other smaller muscles.
determines the parameters for materials that should be used
This means you need to do a bit of work to breathe. You
for building regulators, stipulating the behavior of such mate-
would feel the effort related to breathing quicker if you dived
rials under different conditions, e.g., regulator hoses should
to 50 m, where the gas you breath would have, to put it very
be capable of bearing the weight of 100 kg, regulators must
simply, a six times greater density. Does it mean that if we
not deform in any way if kept for several hours at tempera-
would drop down on an underwater bench at 50 meters and
tures 100°C apart (from – 30°C to +70°C), or the way that
just breathe from the regulator, doing nothing, we could get
regulator operation is tested at the depths of 30 and 50 m (the
significantly more tired than while breathing on the surface?
old standard covered regulator testing only at the depth of
Exactly that, and the situation could be made even worse by
50 m, the new one added a very important test at the depth
setting the adjustment knobs in your second stage regulators
of 30 m).
to “minus”.
One of the most important parts of the standard for divers
It should be noted that divers not only breathe, but also
is the one that describes how much work we may perform
move, pose for pictures, run from sharks or pull out fishing nets.
underwater while breathing from the regulator. This part of
Therefore, the work performed while diving will be much greater
EN 250:2014 is associated with regulator servicing and setting
than the work resulting just from breathing from the regulator.
the breathing resistance*. Remember that the diver can affect the work of breathing actually done by using different settings of the cracking pressure adjustment knob and Venturi effect
Breathing involves many muscles – the deeper
lever (I have described the details in the previous issue of Per-
you dive, the greater the work of breathing is. To
fect Diver).
improve your diving experience, use the cracking
* That is why the servicing technician should be equipped with a device for
pressure adjustment knob and Venturi effect le-
measuring this resistance.
ver, setting them to “plus” for each dive to minimize the breathing resistance. Another way for
All this is to make diving safe and relaxing
reducing the work of breathing is to add helium to the air or nitrox you breathe. Such a breathing mix is called trimix, because of the three gases used in it. Trimix is used by technical divers at greater depths, but also by advanced recreational divers at the depths of 25–40 m. Such “recreational” trimix is usually called triox.
Photo Karola Takes Photos
What does it mean “how much work we may perform while breathing”?
Be a conscious diver – learn to use and always use the cracking pressure adjustment knob and Venturi effect lever to minimize your breathing resistance.
If you seat comfortably on the bottom at 10 m and focus on
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
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ACADEMY
Let's get back to flooding the regulator
you use to eat vegetable soup. Meanwhile, one very calm
All the time we're told that you must not put a first stage regu-
breath taken by a diver is 500 mL, that is 20 times as much.
lator into the water without securing the connection or that you
This means that if you would connect a completely flooded
must not press the purge button when rinsing the regulator,
regulator to a tank and press the purge button, it would be
so why say that nothing will happen if you pour water inside?
completely dry after less than 2 seconds
You already know that this is not so much about an ab-
Can the first stage regulator be flooded by submerging the
stract idea, but this is what the standard used for approving
second stage regulator with the purge button depressed?
each regulator for use says, so the regulator must work no
It is possible, but would require time and persistence. The lon-
matter how flooded it is.
ger the hose connecting the first and second stage regulator,
If you look at this matter from a more technical perspective, it will be easier to understand why water in a regulator is not a big deal.
the longer it takes to flood it. Remember that this trick will not work if your first stage regulator has a tight cover on. Anyways, you will effectively remove any water from every-
How much water can you pour into a first stage regulator?
thing by pressing the by-pass button, taking a breath, pressing
If you have one of the largest first stage regulators, with a ro-
the inflate button of the inflator or the dry suit. By operating
tary head, then if you try really hard, you can perhaps squeeze
every device connected to the individual hoses for a short while
25 mL of water inside, that is 1–1,5 times the volume of a spoon
you can make sure that they are free of water. It is also worth to add that in technical diving flooding regulators is almost an everyday situation for divers using several
It takes some time for a regulator that is dropped into
stage cylinders.
water to fill with water. This time is measured in hours
What to do with a regulator flooded with salt water?
rather than minutes. It might just happen that you would
You should remember that water left inside a regulator even
want to use a regulator that has just been taken out of
for several hours is not a problem. The problem starts when
the water after spending several hours there. In such
you flood your regulator often with salt water and leave it to
a situation, after you screw your first stage regulator into
dry. In such situations, the interior of the regulator will very
the tank valve, but before you open it, you should press
likely start to corrode and the regulator will have to be ser-
and hold the purge button on your second stage regula-
viced. For regulators which have been very neglected, kept in
tor while opening the valve. Water is not compressible
a salty environment and dried with salt water inside, it may be
and it is safer to show it out of your regulator.
necessary to replace the body and other elements damaged due to corrosion.
My first and second stage were flooded with salt water! HELP! First stage regulator After flooding a regulator with salt water and taking it out to the surface, you should purge it to remove any salt water and then pour fresh water into it several times, purging it after each fill. The more accurate you are when filling the regulator with fresh water, the more effectively you will clear it of any salt (by the way, you may check how hard it is to flood a regulator ). There's a trick to do it quicker than by submerging the regulator in a bowl of water: remove the plugs from two LP ports and inject water inside using a syringe, or... use a garden hose and flush the regulator several times without hesitation. Purge after each flooding, using the by-pass button before opening the tank valve. Second stage regulator Have you noticed that, after returning from a salt water diving session (e.g. a safari in Egypt), there's a small air leak in your second stage regulator? This is because of the salt deposited on the socket/head connection, that is in the valve of the second stage regulator. To remove it, you should thoroughly rinse the second stage regulator, while pressing the purge button. Thoroughly means that you should submerge it fully in fresh water, while dynamically moving the regulator body. Short purging after rinsing will remove the remaining water from inside.
66
tips & curiosities
ACADEMY
scribing the reasons for limiting CO2 accumulation while
This simple trick will save you quite a bit of money!
underwater.
You already know that in order to reduce gas consumption,
In both parts of this article, I have spent much time de-
You know that the amount of CO2 in your body can increase
enhance buoyancy control or limit nitrogen narcosis, it might
for different reasons. It is very important not to allow this gas
be important to set the cracking pressure adjustment knob
to accumulate and to try to remove it. First stage regulators
and Venturi effect lever to “plus”. Meanwhile, many divers buy
with hoses sticking up behind the diver’s head may make im-
a regulator with these adjustments and... set both the knob
possible to raise your head high and, therefore, they may make
and the lever to “minus”.
it difficult to easily exhale CO2 out of your body. An easy and very effective method for different routing of the hoses is to use special angle adapters that allow to properly configure hoses in any regulator.
It may be compared to driving a car with the secondary brake always on. Regardless of the reasons for such a decision, it might be worthwhile to give it some thought when buying a regulator.
Photo Bartek Trzciński
Using angle adapters to connect LP hoses and second stage regulators should be considered carefully. They may significantly hinder the possibility to easily share your regulator in an “out of gas” (OOG) emergency. It is much easier to grab a traditionally configured hose and pass the regulator to the diver in need. Selecting the appropriate length for your hoses is related to this, as it may not only affect the ease of operating your second stage regulators, decrease resistance while swimming with a scooter or protect against a hose loop getting hooked, for example, on an element of a wreck, but it may also enhance the breathing comfort, allowing for holding the regulator lightly in your mouth instead of biting it hard for fear of it being pulled out by a hose which is too short (which is usually the reason for using the previously-mentioned angle adapters for second stage regulators). Appropriately selected LP and HP hoses lengths ensure that the hoses are always close to the diver’s body and do not form unnecessary loops, at the same time ensuring full comfort of use. This applies to any type of configuration used by both the greenhorns and expert divers.
Photo Karola Takes Photos
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
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ACADEMY
A high-end regulator equipped with both adjustment options that would be set to “minus” works exactly the same as its cousin that does not have these options but is much less expensive. If you do not want to learn how to use a piece of equipment, don't spend an awful lot of money on it and just buy regulators that really suit you. Another aspect of diving regulators, which is sometimes controversial, is the length of the exhaust tee. Introduction of the so-called “short” exhaust tees was related to regulator weight reduction, easier operation of the second stage regulators when they are frequently exchanged (e.g. sidemount) or while swimming with a scooter. Manufacturers call such exhaust tees “integrated”, while divers call them “short”. We made up many different reasons why “shorter” ones are worse that the “longer” ones. The picture below shows how deceptive the perspective can be. If you measure the short and long exhaust tee, you may find that... Those of you who are not interested in the part for advanced divers are still encouraged to read the useful tips at the end of this article Photo Bartek Trzciński
For advanced divers Similarly as in the previous part of this article, here's some
service oxygen regulators that are used often two times per year.
short information that should be useful for advanced divers.
3. “Overbalanced*” – this is about gas cut-off in dia-
If you find anything interesting, I will gladly elaborate on the
phragm-controlled regulators equipped with a dry cham-
subject on one of Perfect Diver's media channels.
ber. All of the regulators available in our market are tested in accordance with the EN standard up to 50 m and the
1. During long OC dives, using second stage regulator hous-
68
overbalance occurs at much greater depths and is relat-
ings with a larger volume might be a good idea.
ed to regulator design imperfection. Basically, any cur-
Such regulators have buoyancy close to neutral, which
rently used that is controlled in this way may get blocked
helps a lot in case of long decompression in cold water.
when exposed to an ambient pressure within the range of
2. Using seals with enhanced oxygen resistance (e.g., Viton)
19–23 atmospheres. Different regulator specifications make
does not fully secure O-rings against the impact of oxygen,
the diver feel that “overbalance” is positive (greater amount
especially during long-term exposition. Seals become less
of gas supplied at very large depths), but it quickly turns out
flexible and as they wear out, they may unnecessarily com-
that their gas supply will be cut off soon. The easiest way
plicate hard dives. I suggest to consider replacing them or
to prevent it is removing the dry chamber sealing. This is
tips & curiosities
ACADEMY
one of the reasons behind using diaphragm regulators with
operating characteristics of the regulator and increases
a wet chamber in many rebreathers. By virtue of their de-
safety for deep dives.
sign, this phenomenon does not apply to piston regulators.
The element marked as 2 is the diaphragm controlling the
A piston regulator with diaphragm sealing is an interesting
regulator. This is what makes a regulator a “diaphragm reg-
solution to this problem.
ulator”, even though it is not visible.
*Overbalanced is also a regulator operation mode related to supplying
4. When sidemount divers explore sites with a muddy or mixed
a greater amount of gas, which is supposed to balance its density – this
bottom, it is much easier to clear a second stage regulator
is achieved by applying a higher IP.
blocked with rocks when there is no deflector in it. However, removing the deflector greatly decreases your breathing
By the way: if any beginner diver kept on reading, I would
comfort – so this is a stalemate. It is worth to get familiar
like to mention that puncturing the dry chamber sealing (of-
with the design of the Tec2 Tecline second stage regulator,
ten called a diaphragm) is not a problem for regulator oper-
where shifting the gas outlet duct within the second stage
ation and, when diving very deep, it is necessary to prevent
regulator housing caused a significant resistance decrease
the regulator from cutting off the gas supply. If you have
and made it possible to remove the deflector entirely.
your own regulator, what you're probably thinking now is
5. When planning a long expedition in an area where equip-
“sure, this happens with other regulators, but not my cut-
ment parts/servicing is not easily accessible, you should
ting-edge regulator manufactured by (your manufacturer
check if the manufacturer offers seals made of the material
name ).” Unfortunately, it is very likely that your regulator
called EPDM, which has significantly better properties than
will also stop supplying gas if controlled by the dry chamber.
regular rubber (NBR) in respect of reversible deformation. In other words, O-rings made of EPDM are much more re-
To explain what is safe and what most definitely is not, please take a look at the picture below. The element marked as 1 is the dry chamber sealing. Puncturing, damaging or even removing it does not affect the
sistant to deformation under long-term mechanical stress than the regular O-rings. 6. The above descriptions should be considered for regulators used in rebreather supply systems.
Photo Bartek Trzciński
PERFECTDIVER No. 3(15)/2021
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ACADEMY
Ending or maybe an attempt at a summary?
However, the new standard does not release you from hav-
Regulators usually give raise to unending discussions amongst
ing to learn how to eliminate CO2 from the breathing process.
divers. We like our equipment and, as fiercely as a lion, we can
In case of any doubts, ask your instructor or an experienced
defend our regulator, regardless of whether our interlocutor's arguments are sound or not
diver for help. Do you know that a dishwasher can be very helpful in keep-
The world of diving regulators has changed after the
ing your diving regulators in perfect condition? It might be in-
EN 250:2014 standard was introduced – only top-class units
teresting to know that in case of a small leak from the second
remained in the market. Thanks to this, even a beginner diver
stage regulator, you should look for the cause in the first stage
can buy a regulator without any worry of making a bad choice,
regulator. Has the overbalanced phenomenon caught your at-
because they can simply choose the one they like the most
tention and you'd like to know at what depth will your regulator
and... it will work just as well as the best regulator used by
stop supplying gas?
a technical diver, who gazes around gloomily, probably saying “What do you know about regulators?”
...or perhaps you do not believe that you can safely flood a first stage regulator ?
Photo Ash Embi
Come join us at the Tecline Academy. Here, we not only build a device for testing regulators that are to operate at extreme depths, but we also allow all those willing to flood our diving regulators See you there! WAF.
https://teclinediving.eu/tecline-academy/#/ 70
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