diving
No. 16 4(16)/2021
JULY/AUGUST
Price 12,50 € Tax included
freediving
passion
knowledge
EYE TO EYE WITH THE GIANT MANTA RAYS EL HIERRO
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2
the foreword
WOJCIECH ZGOŁA
Editor-in-Chief
S
ummer’s here, which means temperature no longer limits how we enjoy water. Visibility is another story, especially in lakes, but either way it’s so much fun and so interesting.
This issue discusses equipment in more detail. Some of this equipment we tested ourselves as the editorial team. We encourage you to take part in any
related events. It’s always easier to buy or entirely abandon the idea of buying something that’s been in your dreams for several nights ;) I’d like to encourage you to read my interview about the new 4baltic Association. It’s also the second time in 3 years that we are writing about the German quarry Hemmoor and also the first time when we investigated and tried to answer the question “Where do mermaids come from?”. Avid travelers can read about El Hierro, Bali and Egypt. This last destination is seen from the perspective of a safari in the Golden Triangle, with a closing remark that sometimes you can’t see everything you planned to see. Which is fine, in the end, as there’s always a reason to come back and try again. And finally, the thing that starts this issue. Our cover. The majestic manta ray was captured by Karola Takes Photos and Laura Kazi shared her thoughts of these animals that establish a relationship with humans. Go take a dive, enjoy water and nature in its summer entourage. Plan your diving trips and go sightseeing while diving. Close to home and away. The world is a beautiful place, don’t turn a blind eye to its beauty.
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
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ta b l e o f co n t e n t s
32
10 PLANET EARTH 10
Eye to eye with the giant. Manta rays
60
Eiders. Soft-feathered divers
TRAVELS 18
Bali under the microscope
26
El Hierro. A great gift for divers
32
Diving safari in the red sea. "Golden Triangle"
OUR CONVERSATIONS 40
QUARRY 44
’Hemmoor virus’
KNOWLEDGE 48
Mermaiding. Mermaid Academy
51
Diver Rescue. How to effectively provide first aid
FREEDIVING
4baltic. Four for Baltic Conversation with Tomek Ramutkowski
4
44
54
Static apnoea. Research on athletes
Publisher PERFECT DIVER WOJCIECH ZGOŁA
EQUIPMENT 14
How to select a wetsuit? Tecline PROTERM
58
Why dive PRISM2
70
Hayne Mist
14
58
ul. Folwarczna 37, 62-081 Przeźmierowo redakcja@perfectdiver.com ISSN 2545-3319
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editor in chief
Wojciech Zgoła
underwater archaeology
Mateusz Popek
publicist, photographer marketing
&
advertisement
english language translators
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) Open Sans (Ascender Fonts) Spectral (Production Type) printing
Wieland Drukarnia Cyfrowa, Poznań, www.wieland.com.pl
distribution
dive centers, online store
preorder@perfectdiver.com
TIPS & CURIOSITIES 64
Useful tips and tricks for beginner technical divers
cover photo
Karola Takes Photos place
Indonesia
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. 4(16)/2021
5
e d i to r i a l t e a m
WOJCIECH ZGOŁA
HUBERT REISS
He often repeats that he travels by diving and that is his motto. In 1985
An IT specialist by profession, but a flesh and blood salesman who is not
he obtained a yacht sailor's license, and only in 2006 began to dive. In the
afraid of any job. Diving has always been my big dream. At the beginning
following years he improved his skills by obtaining the Dive Master degree.
it was supposed to be a challenge, a short episode but it turned out to be
He completed nearly 650 dives in various climatic conditions. Since 2007, he
a passion for the end of the world and one day longer. Under water I react
has been taking photographs underwater, and since 2008 he has also been
and rest. As a Divemaster, sidemount Razor diver, and recently also a pho-
filming. As an independent journalist, he published dozens of articles, mainly
tographer, I realize my dreams by admiring and immortalizing the beauty of
in journals dedicated to diving, but not only. Co-author of photo exhibitions in
the underwater world. "Passion breeds professionalism, professionalism gives
Poland and abroad. He is passionate about and propagator of diving.
quality, and quality is a luxury in life. Nowadays, especially..."
Since 2008 he has been running his own website www.dive-adventure.eu. On the basis of extensive experience, in August 2018 he created the new Perfect Diver Magazine.
MATEUSZ POPEK
BARTOSZ PSZCZÓŁKOWSKI
”My passion, work and life are under water.” He has been diving since 2009.
That's my name and I come from Poznań. I have been associated with water
Since 2008, he's walking in caves. Underwater archeologist by education.
practically from birth and with diving since I learned to walk. My grandfather
He participated in numerous projects in Poland and abroad. He has been
instilled my passion for the underwater world, a CMAS*** instructor taking
engaged in professional diving since 2011. In 2013 he obtained the quali-
me to the lakes at any free time. I obtained my first qualifications in 1996.
fications of a 2nd class diver. Has experience in underwater work both at
A year later I went to Croatia and literally went crazy at the sight of blue water,
sea and inland. Since 2013 he has been diving in caves, especially in the
octopus and colorful fish;) I bought my first underwater camera – Olympus
mountains, and since 2014 he is a diving instructor CMAS M1. In June 2020,
5060 and started the adventure with underwater photography. I acquired my
he obtained a doctoral degree in underwater archeology.
diving experience in the Canary Islands, Sardinia, Norway, Maldives and in Polish lakes. I am currently a Padi and ESA instructor, I train diving enthusiasts in Europe and pass my passion on to others. I invite all lovers of the underwater world and photography to Beediver (FB) – see you soon.
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").
27 years, he started at the age of 12 – as soon as
PEN E-PL 5 reflex camera, which allows the use of
She cooperates with NBO organizations dealing
it was formally possible. He was the first in the
several different lenses. He uses a combination
with environmental protection and actively partic-
world to use the Hasselblad X1d-50c camera for
of underwater flashes and lights. He focuses on
ipates 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). She 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 implement-
• 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
ing research, pushing laboriously in the right di-
• record holder and Polish champion, member
Planet Heroes platform and the ambassador of
rection of the stroller called science. In his free
of the national team in freediving 2013–2019,
the Ocean Mimic brand. She actively contributes
time he spends his time actively – his main pas-
• winner of the World Championships in freed-
to the promotion of the protection of corals and
sions are sailing (sea helmsman), skiing (downhill
iving 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2018,
the natural environment of fish and marine an-
skiing instructor), riding a motorcycle, recreational
• multimedalist of the Polish Championships
imals by taking part in scientific projects, cam-
diving and many other activities, as well as pho-
and a member of the national team in swim-
paigns against ocean littering and cooperating
tography, mainly nature.
ming in the years 1998–2003,
with NGOs in Indonesia.
• passionate about freediving and swimming.
@laura_kazi
AGATA TUROWICZ-CYBULA
ADRIAN JURIEWICZ
IRENA KOSOWSKA
Since I was a child, I had dreamed of becoming
A traveler, photographer and the underwater
Regional Manager Divers Alert Network Polska,
a marine biologist and I managed to fulfill that
world filmmaker, an Asian cuisine enthusiast
diving and first aid instructor, technical diver and
dream. I did a degree in oceanography, where
and a PADI diving instructor. He visited over
cave diver. In love with all flooded, dark, cold,
I recently started my doctoral studies. My diving
70 countries and dived on 5 continents (the
tight places and invariably from the beginning
adventure began when I was 12 years old. I love
other two are planned for next year's expedi-
of the diving route – in the Baltic. Implementing
observing the underwater life up close and I try to
tions). For several years he has also been an
the DAN mission, he conducts a series of lectures
show other divers how fascinating the underwa-
instructor and trainer of the unmanned aircraft
”Dive safely” and Diving Safety Laboratory, so field
ter, Baltic creatures are.
flights. A co-author of a travel agency for divers
research of divers for scientific purposes.
www.dive-away.pl. He documents his expeditions with photos and descriptions of his journeys on his blog www.divingandtravel.pl
o u r au t h o r s
ALEŠ KOŠTOMAJ
MICHAL ŠTROS
AGNIESZKA BLANDZI
My name is Aleš Koštomaj. I'm from Slovenia (Eu-
The author is biologist by profession, involved in
A doctor of philosophy by education, a byzantol-
rope). I was born 1978 (43 years old) in city Cel-
cancer research at the Czech Academy of Scienc-
ogist, for ten years with great passion a technical
je. From what I can remember I loved snorkeling
es in Brno. His profession enabled him to travel
and cave diver, a passionate underwater archae-
and freediving. I studied at the Faculty of Sports
around the globe and to visit places which are
ologist.
in Ljubljana, where I became more professionally
also regarded as the best dive sites. Underwater
Every day, she advises companies on how to cre-
acquainted with freediving. At first I was active in
photography became a part of his life since he
ate their business image, also deals with public
spearfishing (between 2001 and 2009), and then
dove the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. His ”pet“
relation and brand promotion. She constantly
for a few years I completely focused on freediving.
is Canon 80D (Ikelite housing, ”fish eye“, 60 mm
tries to acquire knowledge, train and dive as of-
Between 2009 and 2016, I trained and competed
and 100mm macro lenses, Subsee diopters and
ten as possible – live consciously with care for the
in freediving. My biggest success is a 3rd place in
snoot RETRA), as well as the Photoshop editing
balance of body and spirit. Favorite waters are
CWT (AIDA international world) in Croatia (Lopar,
software. He received an “Honorary Mention” on
Polish diving sites, Ohrid Lake in Macedonia, the
2011). In 2017, I received my master’s degree from
one of the most the prestigious underwater photo
Baltic Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.
the Faculty of Sports and became a master of sci-
contest, Ocean Art 2020 (Underwater Art). Some
ence in freediving. Since 2017, I no longer compete
of his underwater photos are processed by cre-
but I love discovering the underwater world with
ative tools, by combination of underwater pho-
an underwater camera in freediving and I also do
tography and digital software to create captivating
researches with top Slovenian freedivers (Samo
– sometime even surrealist – images.
Jeranko, Andrej Ropret, Jure Daić...).
His photos are regularly published in scuba diving
So far, I have the highest scientific education in
magazines and presented at exhibitions. He be-
freediving in Slovenia (Mag. Aleš Koštomaj).
lieves that exhibiting of underwater photos to the public could increase social awareness towards marine conservation. More underwater photos, as well as information about the author, are to be found on his website http://michalstros.cz
MARIUSZ BEBEL (Morox) Diver TMX Instructor MSTD PADI Master IDF instructor, and this year also a Technical Instructor. In 2015, I opened a diving club, which in 2016 turned into a diving school under the same name "Octopus". Together with friends, we came up with the name when we were returning by bus from diving in Tyrol. It has stayed that way, and the friends with whom we continue to dive a lot were also positively crazy. We try to infect our passion for diving. The school's headquarters and office are in Hamburg, and we have a branch in Hemmoor.
ADVERTISEMENT
DIVING CENTER DIVING SCHOOL
planet earth
Eye to eye with the giant MANTA RAYS Text LAURA KAZIMIERSKA Photos KAROLA TAKES PHOTOS
10
planet earth
T
hey have been traversing our oceans for over five million years. They delight divers with their intelligence and grace. Manta, relatives of
sharks, feed on plankton and are also among the largest rays in the world. My meeting with Manta on Komodo was almost a spiritual experience. I have seen them in other parts of Indonesia before, like Nusa Penida, but I have never been so close to them alone. At my fingertips, they presented
interesting facts
Manta in literal translation means a cape or blanket. Indeed, they are floating magic carpets undulating in the currents of the sea. They captivate, surprise and hypnotize anyone who comes underwater with them.
their spotted bellies to me, they danced effortlessly on strong currents while we held tight to the ground, hiding behind the rocks of the coral reef to keep us from being blown away. I made eye contact with one of them and felt myself melt from the inside out. It was something incredibly mystical. We stared at each other for a few seconds, then suddenly it swam away, only to return to the same place in a moment and watch me a little
The largest Manta recorded by scientists comes from the Oceanic Manta Ray, its "wingspan" is over 9 meters. Just to compare, the two-story building is about 8.3 meters high.
more. I was tied to the hook that divers once used in the strong Komodo currents, and in all this excitement, I raised my hands as if I was going to fly and began to move gently from side to side. Imagine my surprise when I saw that a stingray levitating next to me began to copy my movements. Maybe it was a coincidence, although I got the impression that it knew exactly what was going on, and that it did not fear my presence and decided to have a little fun.
Among the species, there are individuals with a unique coloration. The ones that are mostly black are called by divers Ninja Mantas. White manta rays, the so-called albinos, appear very seldom. To see one white manta while diving is like winning the lottery.
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
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planet earth
12
ADVERTISEMENT
Manta rays are extremely intelligent creatures that form strong social bonds. Divers often report unique interactions with these sea creatures. You can enjoy them by diving in the Maldives, Mexico, Indonesia, Hawaii and many other tropical destinations. Manta rays are an endangered species due to the huge demand for their bronchial rake, which is used in natural Chinese medicine. It happens that they accidentally fall
Each manta has a unique pattern of spots on its ventral surface that remains largely unchanged throughout life. Spots unique to an individual facilitate the identification of migrating rays. And they travel quite a lot, sometimes over 200 kilometers.
prey to fishing nets intended for catching other fish. Due to the enormous pollution of the oceans, they are increasingly swallowing toxic micro-plastic, which, together with plankton, ends up in their digestive system. Despite the fact that they have been with us for millions of years, scientists are constantly discovering new facts about their behaviour, life cycle and migration. This knowledge contributes to the geographically defined protection of the species. And it is definitely worth protecting them. Not only because of their extraordinary nature, but also for the economy. It is estimated that the income from the living Manta rays is estimated to be around $ 1 million in diving tourism, while a dead Manta only costs $ 500.
Thanks to a project led by the Manta Trust organization (www. mantatrust.org), you have the chance to submit photos of mantas as seen anywhere in the world and contribute to the research and conservation efforts of this amazing species. You can also get information about the manta ray you have encountered, and if it is not already in the database, register the new manta and give it a name.
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
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sponsored article
How to select a wetsuit?
TECLINE PROTERM wetsuit for instructors and advanced recreational divers How is it that a wetsuit stays “warm”?
in several key areas: ● around the wrists
ter gets inside, but more importantly, when
tense diving an instructor has to do?
● near the feet at the ankles
the water heated by the body does not
Which features of the suit will allow it to be
● around the diver’s neck
leak out. This is first ensured by special ”smart
used with a harness and plate?
14
The suit will seem warm when little wa-
How to select a wetsuit appropriate for the in-
How is it that the suit is warm?
neoprene” that fits snugly to the diver’s body
Warm wetsuit
Water enters between the diver’s body and
when it is 5 or 7 mm thick, while the plush
Great thermal comfort is only guaranteed by
the suit, where it is warmed through contact
layer on the side will keep the heated water
a wetsuit that fits closely to the diver’s body
with the diver’s body.
warm for longer.
Photo Bartek Trzciński
sponsored article
Another equally important feature is to ensure that the end parts of the sleeves and legs of the suit fit tightly around the body, equipped with the so-called “seals” (double sleeves and legs). Additionally, the suit should be equipped with a flap sealing the main zipper, which should prevent water from flowing freely into the suit while diving.
Instructors and advanced recreational divers select their suits by checking if they fit the body closely at the: ● wrists ● ankles ● neck An important feature of the suit is its cross main zipper with a special seal.
How can you regulate thermal comfort in a wetsuit?
Main suit zipper – vertical or cross?
You can use the zippers at your wrists, an-
rig (plate or jacket), which makes it much more
kles and neck.
leak-tight as compared to a vertical zipper.
High quality suits are sealed tightly in
A cross zipper is pressed tighter to the diver’s body by their
Because the vertical zipper runs along the
these areas with smooth neoprene. If
spine, it remains loose for the entire time of
such areas are additionally sealed
diving, particularly at the lumbar spine.
with a short zipper, the water heat-
Therefore, it is easier for cold
ed by the diver’s body warmth will
water to get between the div-
be unable to leak through the suit,
er’s body and the suit.
keeping you warm for longer. If you use the suit in tropical water or you are too hot, you can unzip the additional sealing zippers partially or completely. To decrease thermal comfort, start with the zippers at the ankles, then unzip those at the wrists and finally
those
at
Frequent use of zippers requires those most durable and resistant to intensive use under any conditions. Japanese YKK zippers provide such parameters.
the neck.
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
15
sponsored article
Additionally, thermal comfort may be regulated by choosing between 5 and 7 mm neoprene suits. If you intend to dive in cold water, you’ll want to consider using an additional insulation vest that you wear on the suit, which is equipped with a warm integrated hood. Vests are also made of 5 mm or 7 mm neoprene, which allows you to configure your suit according to your individual needs, e.g. 7 mm suit + 5 mm vest. A vest with an additionally sealed main zipper and a hood with a special labyrinth valve can be used separately from the suit when diving in a swimming pool or in tropical water.
You should definitely consider supplementing your
so that dozens of diving sessions will not damage the suit, ensuring high work comfort. When diving in a Proterm wetsuit, divers who use technical configurations can safely
Proterm suit with neo-
Instructors present their skills to student
use every type of harness. Proterm suit shoul-
prene boots, gloves and
divers on training platforms on numerous oc-
ders were reinforced with Kevlar to increase
the additional Proterm
casions. Proterm was additionally equipped
the comfort of a diver using heavier equip-
hood made of the same
with Kevlar reinforcement on the knees and
ment, and to endure putting on and taking
SMART NEOPRENE as the
lower legs, which does not restrain movement,
off of your “DIR” type harnesses repeatedly.
main suit.
16
Selecting the cut and durability of the suit to match the special needs of instructors and advanced recreational divers.
sponsored article
The sleeves and the sideline of the suit were modified to facilitate reaching over your head to operate the twinset valves. The leg shape sets the diver’s legs in a slightly bent position, supporting good trim and movement techniques that require moving fins away from the silty bed. Proterm seams that allow to move freely were also secured with additional patches.
In short, a wetsuit should have the following features: ● flexible and closely-fitting neoprene; ● as tight as possible legs at the ankles and sleeves at the wrists; ● additional zippers allowing to adjust fit and comfort in water.
Selecting a wetsuit – mistakes you can make ● trying on a dry suit at the store (this way, the suit will always seem to be very warm) ● avoiding suits that are tighter at the wrists and feet (putting on and taking off the suit very easily means low thermal comfort in the water) ● not testing before you buy (entering the water with the suit on may be crucial for your decision, e.g. it might turn out that a well-fitted 5 mm wetsuit may be warm enough for your needs).
Important note for advanced divers who use wetsuits and “jet” fins. Even the highest quality neoprene that the suit is made of compresses when underwater. Typical “jet” fins make the diver’s legs fall ever more as the depth increases (neoprene buoyancy decreases and the fins have negative buoyancy). As a result, you might encounter problems when diving in places with silty bed or, for instance, in the caves in Mexico, where wetsuits are commonly used. Tecline Lightjet fins might be the solution – they were developed for divers who use various effective movement techniques when wearing a wetsuit. They have positive buoyancy and help the diver maintain a good trim in a wetsuit.
The perfect solution is to TEST the TECLINE PROTERM SUIT and PROTERM INSULATION VESTS while using the LIGHTJET FINS. Test suits and fins are available at all Tecline stores and at the Tecline Academy.
Photos on pages 14–17 Miłosz Stępkowski
Photo Bartek Trzciński
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
17
t r av e l s
BALI under the microscope Text and photos MICHAL ŠTROS
18
travels
Borneo
Sumatra
Celebes Papua
BALI Java
Bali is an island of gods and demons, a paradise for those eager for extraordinary adventures. It acts upon all your senses: with its rice terraces saturated with green, smiling people, fascinating music of the gamelan – traditional xylophones, the ponds in temple gardens covered with lotus flowers, traditional Balinese cuisine and perfect diving conditions.
L
USAT LIBERTY USAT Liberty was an American Navy ship that was hit by a Japanese submarine torpedo in the Lombok Strait on the way back to the Philippines during the World War II. Severely damaged, the ship could not be towed to Singaraja in the north of Bali, so she anchored off Tulamben. The next chapter of USAT Liberty’s story began in 1963, when a lava flow from a massive eruption of the nearby Agung volcano pushed the anchored ship about 30 meters off the coast, where she lies until today.
ast fall, after a longer break, I returned to the Indone-
The wreck lies at 5–30 meters, it is completely covered with
sian island of Bali. Unlike the last time, during this visit
a layer of soft and hard coral, here and there also covered
I focused more on diving than on sightseeing in this
with majestic sponges. USAT Liberty is inhabited by countless
lovely place full of temples and smiling people. And although
species of sea creatures, including turtles, ribbontail rays, fish
the main purpose of my visit was underwater macro photogra-
from the Serranide family and enormous schools of bumphead
phy, I just could not miss the chance to take a wide-angle cam-
parrotfish. It is best to begin diving at the wreck short before
era for a couple of dives. One of the most famous ship wreck
dawn or just after dusk. Many divers and photographers come
in the world, the USAT Liberty, was a compelling temptation.
to Bali just to dive in locations for macro photography lovers, as
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well as to see and capture the smallest sea creatures. Thus, underwater macro photography is becoming a global phenomenon, attracting divers from around the world. BALI – A PARADISE FOR MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY Macro photography locations at Pemuteran, Tulamben and Padang Bai are without exaggeration one of the most beautiful diving sites inhabited by the smallest “beauties and beasts” on our planet. Whereas the seabed at Tulamben and Pemuteran is covered with
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podróże
black volcanic sand, the sand near Padang Bai is mostly white.
JETTY AT THE PADANG BAI
For those of you who are used to embarking on a comfortable
You may be wondering, why am I dedicating a separate para-
boat before diving, I have bad news: here almost all dives are
graph to a single location in Bali, which at first sight does not
done from the shore. The good news is that, for a small charge,
look like typical diving sites in turquoise waters, with white or
you can have your heavy equipment carried to the beach. To
dark sand, amazingly colored coral reefs and loads of trop-
my great surprise, the equipment was carried mostly by petite
ical fish. Indeed, the Jetty location at Padang Bai is different
women from nearby villages, and some were even able to carry
from other places for macro photography lovers and I must
two cylinders at the same time. A dollar for having your diving
admit that when I snorkeled there for the first time years ago, it
gear carried might not seem a lot, but for the local people it
seemed rather obnoxious at the water surface. Originally, Jetty
provides material and, above all, regular income.
was intended as a port for large tourist ships, with massive
An absolute phenomenon among Balinese macro photog-
piles dug into the sandy sea bed. However, the bed turned
raphy sites is Seraya Secret which – in terms of the number and
out to be so unstable that the idea never came into being.
the diversity of small sea creatures – can only be outperformed
Currently, only fishermen moor here, so at the sea bed you
by the Lembeh Strait in northern Sulawesi (Indonesia) and, to
can see lots of nets, hooks, and fish skeletons. The water here
some extent, locations in the Philippines (Anilao and Duma-
is muddy and dark, the waves at the bottom toss you around,
guete). When diving in Seraya Secret, you can spend hours on
although it does not make such an awful impression on the
exploring its seabed, covered with black volcanic sand, looking
sandy bottom as the one made on the surface; this is a very
for little living creatures. If you find a good local guide, with a bit
odd and mysterious place. You might be asking yourselves why
of luck you will see not only a swarm of small animals but also
this particular location should be so fascinating from the point
a pygmy seahorse, rare specimens of octopuses or a harlequin
of view of underwater macro photography? Well, the answer
shrimp (lat. Hymenocera picta).
is simple: due to the diversity of sea creatures inhabiting this
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place. From the long list of species inhabiting Jetty, let me men-
Besides shrimps, macro photography sites also feature
tion at least the nudibranch sea slugs in all colors, shapes and
many species of crabs in different sizes. Among the smallest,
sizes; Flabellina; ghost pipefish; broadnosed pipefish; frogfish;
there is Lauriea siagiani or hairy squad lobster. Its body is almost
reef stonefish and scorpionfish.
completely transparent and covered with white hair, hiding shiny violet spots. Crabs are very shy and usually hide from
SLEEPING BEAUTIES – SHRIMPS
curious divers and photographers in cavities of sponges (lat.
In Tulamben and its surroundings (Seraya Secret, Melasti,
Xestospongia). Others, e.g. porcelain anemone crab (lat. Neop-
Amed, Coral Garden and Drop-off locations), you may see small
etrolisthes ohshimai) hide in anemones.
shrimps and crabs who have perfectly adapted to living on a sandy sea bed or reefs. Harlequin, which can probably only
NUDIBRANCH – VIVID COLORS OF A MACRO PHOTO-
be found in Bali at Seraya Secret, is without a doubt the most
GRAPHY SITE
beautiful of all shrimps. Yet appearances can be deceptive:
When diving, it is rather hard to miss nudibranch slugs due to
despite its beauty, harlequin is a ferocious predator. It feeds
their sharp colors. With their diversity and number, you can
exclusively on starfish and even a significantly larger crown-of-
be sure to meet new species during each dive. At the Seraya
thorns cannot be sure to survive an encounter with harlequin.
Secret location, I had my first chance to photograph a Doto
The effectiveness of harlequin’s strategy is due to the fact that
greenamyeri nudibranch, a species only discovered recently,
they attack a starfish in pairs, whereby each shrimp employs
which was 1.5 cm large. It looks like a donut, and hence its
a different hunting method. The captured starfish is then being
name: donut nudibranch. Its body looks like consisting of six
eaten alive by the two shrimps, which may take many weeks.
donuts one next to another and at first sight, it is difficult to
You may also spot tiny Thor amboinensis shrimps hidden
tell the head from the tail. It exclusively inhabits hydrozoans
in anemones. They are sometimes called sexy shrimps due to their characteristic movements similar to belly dance.
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(phylum Cnidaria) whom they eat, by the way.
For capturing nudibranch slugs and other species in macro photography sites, a camera with APS-C, 100 mm macro lens and maybe dioptric lenses (e.g. Subsee). For artistic underwater photography, I strongly recommend a snoot. This is a special attachment to the external flash, a set of lenses, to reduce the flash beam and reduces the distracting background (more on this technique in Perfect Diver 3/2021). Not all beauties and beasts in macro photography locations are small; some of them are 10 and more centimeters long, like e.g. leaf scorpionfish (lat. Taenianotus triacanthus). Its body is almost flat, it moves very gently, imitating a dried leaf plunging on a wave. Conscious of its perfect camouflage, it is not rushing anywhere – just waiting for the prey to come closer. PEACOCK MANTIS SHRIMP – A STARTLING INHABITANT OF MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS Among other living creatures found in locations for macro photography lovers, one should surely mention mantis shrimps, with a body length of 10–20 cm; it is every diver’s dream to spot one. The most awe-inspiring mantis shrimp, the peacock mantis shrimp (lat. Odontodactylus scyllarus) can usually be seen only when it leaves its hiding place. Its hunting method
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requires utmost precision. Its perfect spatial orientation and absolutely exceptional color vision is very helpful. The blue eyes of the mantis shrimp move independently all the time, and their complex build and the capability to distinguish different wave lengths of colors outperform even the human eye. Mantis shrimps are sometimes called shrimp assassins. They can crush its prey with one punch of the front extremities shot at the speed of 23 meters per second. If they are capable of crushing a crab or a shrimp, they can easily break a diver’s fingers. So it is best to keep away from it. There is nothing like a good piece of advice but under water, in the rush of taking pictures and admiring their incredible colors, I tend to forget it in a second. TRADITIONAL SEA SALT MANUFACTURING After diving, I spent two more days visiting places I had not been able to see during my last travel to Bali. Among others, I visited small salt-producing homesteads in Ameda and Kusamba (near Padang Bai). Reportedly, Bali inhabitants have been producing salt for a thousand years but with time, there are less and less families ready to commit themselves to this hard and not very lucrative work. Everyday routine begins
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by drawing sea water into buckets, filtering it in bamboo funnels filled with clay and pouring them into larger containers sunk in the ground, where the water partially evaporates in the sunlight. The resulting brine is re-filtered and poured into coconut shell halves – troughs from where the remaining water evaporates and the crystal salt dries. Average salt output in such family steadings amounts to about five buckets in two days, and taking into consideration the price – half a dollar per kilogram of salt – it only allows for a modest living. A FEW FINAL WORDS Diving in Bali provides endless occasions to experience real adventure – surrounded by those tiniest creatures, as well as gracefully passing devilfish and gigantic sunfish emerging from the depths of the ocean. Marvelous landscapes, smiling and friendly people, traditional Balinese culture, the diversity of temples, perfect diving sites and loads of uncommon attractions are truly entrancing. That is why it is so easy to fall in love with Bali forever.
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El Hierro
A GREAT GIFT FOR DIVERS Text AGNIESZKA BLANDZI Photos KRZYSZTOF FLIS
CANARY ISLANDS
Lanzarote
La Palma
Unfortunately, a ticket for tourists is much more expensive,
Tenerife La Gomera
Gran Canaria
Fuerteventura
EL HIERRO
but as everywhere you may "hunt” for last minute tickets and you will probably buy something for less than 80 euros. You can also take a 3-hour ferry trip, but unfortunately, in our case, the time of the arrival from Poland ruled this possibility out. The first impression, of course, as in the whole Canaries is that it is windy and hot. It was the strong winds and a weather front full of clouds and fog moving through Tenerife that caused our flight delay. El Hierro welcomed us with turquoise
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Africa
skies, but the wind was getting even stronger. We anxiously watched the white crests of waves rushing across the Atlantic,
e landed on El Hierro 40 minutes late. Not much,
wondering how our dive would be like. At the airport, most
but when you know that the whole team is waiting
passengers lined up for the Cicar (Canary Islands Car) rental
for us at the dive base to go diving, it is a lot. And
car office, a necessity here to get around between towns. After
we still had to drive from the north of the island to its south-
a while we started the journey through the very mountainous
ern point, to La Restinga, known primarily for its incredibly
and undulating interior. In places the landscape resembled
attractive dive sites. The road was about 40 km long and the
Scotland due to green hills, low walls separating fields, sheep,
drive was going to take almost an hour. Why? We were about
brown and black, curious cows. After studying the map for
to find out.
a while, I realised that the hills are actually dormant volcanoes,
We flew to El Hierro, the westernmost island of the Canary
of which there are more than 500 on the island, and as many
Islands, from Tenerife. The trip with the local airlines Binter
as 200 underwater. Some of them slowed down our journey.
Canarias takes 40 minutes and costs just 30 euros for locals.
The map with the marked volcanoes indicated that we passed
travels
El Bajon
"only" 17 of them. Along the way, we encountered a local vari-
morning, through the window of my room, I watched boats
ation of the Battle of the Wall described by Fredro in the book
with divers setting sail, during the day we met people in diving
"The Revenge". On El Hierro there is, of course, a dispute over
suits and wet suits, and in the evening, from the windows, we
a volcano, between brothers quarrelling over land. As a result,
saw the light of torches in the waters of the harbour basin.
the H-400 volcano was decorated with a neat wall, because it
Let us add that this pool is home to three turtles, too lazy to
belongs to two families. It is such a local peculiarity. Despite the
forage in the ocean. And you do not have to dive to see them,
hurry we had on our way to La Restinga, we could not ignore
as they often swim on the surface of the water when they
the amazing spectacle of nature called here the "sea of clouds".
get curious. The well-maintained harbour basin, with good
As we climbed slowly up the winding roads of the Valvedere
infrastructure and a gentle descent, also serves as a training
mountain range, this sea of clouds suddenly appeared at our
area for beginner divers; you can control balance here, do
feet, full of golden and silver reflections, completely covering
a "check dive", or just swim with turtles. The harbour waters
the ground. It was just amazing.
are crystal clear, surrounded by picturesque high black cliffs,
The closer we got to the southern part of the island, the more it felt like being at the end of the world. Behind us remained the wonderful green hills of El Pinar covered with pine forests. Here we entered another sea, this time of solidified lava. From now on we were accompanied by brown and black lava waves frozen in a sudden jump, a strong salty wind and wonderful sunshine. The southernmost point of the island is the headland with the harbour and fishing village of La Restinga. However, among the pictograms on the map, diving is marked as the first and primary attraction of this place. And this is indeed the case. La Restinga has the atmosphere so favoured by divers of a huge dive base. Along the quay, every dozen meters or so, diving bases invite you, guesthouses are accompanied by the names of diving clubs, in the surrounding pubs and cafés we meet our boat-diving companions. In the
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El Desierto
Baja del Camello
El Salto
El Salto
with small beaches. It is simply a dream place to relax before and after diving.
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Our journey from the dive base to the jetty also took just 5 minutes, the equipment was efficiently loaded and here we
We rushed into our base in the centre of La Restinga out
were in the boat, jumping over the waves, in the gush of sea
of breath, but everyone was waiting for us. Most of the dive
water on our way to El Salto dive site. Our initial fears about
centres here are really well set up. They consist of an office
the foaming waters of the ocean proved to be unnecessary.
and training area situated above the street line, and a second
Poseidon took care of us and prepared a special place for div-
area below the street line with dive equipment, a compressor
ing enthusiasts. Around la Restinga extends the "Mar de las
room, elegant changing rooms, showers and a few pools for
Calmas" (sea of calmness). From the cape to the lighthouse
rinsing the equipment. Divers are attracted here by conditions
Faro de Orchilla we can see the calm waters of the Atlantic,
that every one of us dreams of, especially those tired of the
free from large waves. It looks amazing, and gives divers as
Polish long winters and cold springs. The water temperature
many as 40 kilometres of relatively calm waters. Even in strong
in May is about 20°C and does not change regardless of the
winds, diving in the bays along the coast is very comfortable
depth. No wonder that the tradition of diving is very long here.
and incredibly spectacular. The abundance of magnificent sea
The dive base Centro de Buceo El Hierro, with which we went
creatures is further guaranteed here by the Reserva Marina,
underwater, was established in 1978, and its owner, Iñaki
which covers the area of the underwater volcanic zone. Thanks
Cayón Casla, continues to show divers the delights of the un-
to these conditions, the area around La Restinga is considered
dersea. The base has 12 and 15-litre steel cylinders available,
to be the best diving site in the Canary Islands. What is more,
with two or one valve, and offers nitrox or air. Departures
the Open Foto Sub, a world-famous festival of underwater
from the harbour are usually organised twice a day, before
photography, also takes place here. Although we have dived
noon. Most of the local dive bases are only 300–500 metres
many times in the Atlantic, the few dive sites (and there are
from the quay, with accommodation, cafés and shops also
more than 40 available places) that we had the opportunity to
within easy reach.
see gave us a striking impression. We reached the El Salto dive
travels
El Bajon
site after a 5 minute swim. On the boat we had the company of divers from Germany, France and Spain dressed in wet suits with hoods. You can see that the special difficulty of diving in sea water was not something surprising to them. Despite the waves and surface current we entered and went out of the boat without any problems. However, we quickly realised our mistake: we could have put on dry suits but without thermal insulation, our thermal underwear was enough. The water was 20 degrees, regardless of the depth, and the surface temperature, despite the cooling wind, was 30 deEl Bajon
grees. El Salto delighted us with over 60 metres of visibility and schools of fish. We admired gold, silver and red fish, purple moray eels with white teeth
blue water illuminated by the sun. Schools of fish resembling
wriggling among the rocks, black stingrays several metres long
tunas, groups of barracudas, all this together, for some people
tiny colourful snails, curious moustached shrimps and huge
it was breath-taking, and for others it was the reason why their
crawfish. But this was only a foretaste of the next dive along
breath accelerated, as they were so impressed by the view.
the walls of the volcano El Bajón, considered to be the most
As if these attractions were not enough, in the next, side-by-
spectacular spot among the 40 diving spots. It is located about
side sites of Baja del Camello and El Desierto, we were greet-
2 minutes by boat from the harbour. Due to the light current
ed by huge, over-metre-high groupers, called here “el mero”.
bringing food and oxygen, it is a favourite spot for fish and
They were headed by their leader, a massive specimen who
for divers, who feel here like in a giant aquarium, with equally
decided to see who was visiting them. It tried to bite our Span-
giant fish. You swim along the walls of the volcano, and then
ish instructor, who wanted to "give it a kiss"; it pulled the filter
pass through the crater to circumnavigate the volcano again.
off our photographer’s camera and looked at me suspiciously.
You can admire green-brown, monumental walls with visible
You can see that it is a great fish with character. It is no won-
lava lines, a perfectly visible depth of almost 100 metres, dark
der that the symbol of La Restinga is the 40-year-old grouper
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El Bajon
El Bajon
“el pancho” that was immortalised with a statue. Its age was measured thanks to the fact that it gained 1 kg a year, and when it died it weighed 40 kg. Both of these dive sites Baja del Camello and El Desierto are also known for the youngest underwater volcano, which erupted in 2011. It first spewed ash making the ocean a grey slurry and then exploded with geysers of hot water that was incredibly turquoise in colour for days, captured in many photos. But no worries, the volcano did not erupt suddenly. For days the inhabitants of El Hierro felt a slight trembling of the ground under their feet, as the moving river of lava sought its outlet, only to find it right in the area of La Restinga. More than 150,000 years ago, the sea of lava solidified here in the form of monumental cliffs that defended the island from the waves of the Atlantic
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El Bajon
IT’S A COLD WORLD OUT THERE. Baja del Camello
BUT BARE KEEPS YOU WARM ON EVERY DIVE.
Ocean. The extraordinary black beaches contrast fantastically with the white and emerald waters, and the steep coastline with its monumentality will make you dizzy. So also the boat trip to the diving site provides a wonderful experience. It is definitely worth spending at least one day exploring the island, to see the Meridian – the meridian labelled 0 degrees, visit the cultural centre El Julan, where Berber settlers called Bimbaches left their traces, their magical water tree El Garoé, admire the incredible views, especially in La Peña, where you can enjoy the panorama of the valley El Golfo, look at the reserve El Sabinar with juniper trees, which under the influence of the wind have taken amazing, bent shapes. And of course to taste the local cuisine, which in addition to seafood is also famous for “la quesadilla herreña” – cheesecake baked on the basis of goat cheese. Delicious. We will return to El Hiero to show it to our friends and together we will dive into the sea of clouds, walk through the sea of lava and dive into the sea of calmness.
WWW.NURKOWANIE-ECN.PL
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Diving safari in the red sea "GOLDEN TRIANGLE" Text SYLWIA KOSMALSKA-JURIEWICZ Photos ADRIAN JURIEWICZ
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e live in the same world, but it is our interaction
adventure with a group of wonderful people, friends who join
with this world that determines how we will live in
me after a while to admire the sunrise together.
it. I have been practicing gratitude for over a year
Yesterday we landed at the Hurghada airport in eastern
now, I did it before too, but not with the intensity and faith in
Egypt in the early afternoon, it took us about fifteen minutes by
my heart that I do it with now. Since gratitude has become my
bus to get to the port. On a wooden, slightly wobbly gangplank
mantra, meditation and an indispensable part of everyday life,
we boarded a beautiful boat named Sea Serpent Grand, which
miracles have started to happen in my life ...
that day was sailing on a seven-day cruise in the Red Sea. The
Silently, with a cup of delicious morning coffee in my hand,
dive safari itinerary was "The Golden Triangle" due to the
I climb the wooden stairs to the sundeck, which offers a beau-
three incredibly beautiful sites we were going to dive at
tiful view of the red sea, low colourful buildings and a grand
– the Brothers Islands, Daedalus and Elphinstone Reefs.
mosque in the harbour. I am accompanied by blissful silence
The daily schedule during the diving safari is predetermined
broken occasionally by the sound of birds flying by and gentle
and everyone follows it, unless something unexpected hap-
waves hitting the side of the boat. This is my moment of sol-
pens that makes it change (e.g. bad weather or very strong
itude, in which I sink completely and feel indescribable grati-
currents, which make it impossible to dive at the planned site).
tude, looking at the beautiful world around me. I am thankful
Each day we get up at 6:00 a.m., although some, like me, wake
to be here and to be able to experience this extraordinary
up at 4:50 a.m. Then at 6:30 there is a briefing (discussion of
travels
Expressing gratitude in words is polite and pleasant, playing gratitude is generous and noble, but experiencing gratitude is a touch of heaven. Johannes A. Gaertner
the dive site), and at 7:00 the first dive begins. After an hour of diving, we return to the boat, have breakfast, rest and at 10:30 we listen to a briefing again, so that we can dive again half an hour later. After returning to the boat, we rest, have lunch and at 2:30 p.m. we gather for another briefing so that we go underwater half an hour later for the third dive. After an hour of diving, we rest, eat some snacks like fruit and antipasti, and then at 6:30 p.m. we gather for a briefing to start the fourth night dive at 7:00 p.m. After an hour of diving we return to the boat to have a delicious dinner and to relax.
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I get up because I know that in a moment the Red Sea will be flooded by the golden orange glow of the sun entering the sky. If I stayed in bed, I would miss out on this beautiful spectacle.
place is exceptionally charming, there are no currents and the sandy bottom is overgrown with beautiful coral gardens, in which various colourful fish find shelter, as well as moray eels, scorpionfish and many other species of sea creatures. For a moment, a large eagle ray appears on the horizon and swims away unhurriedly into the depths. At this location we also stay for a night dive, which turns out to be a beautiful experience: we see cuttlefish, Spanish dancer, stingrays, nudibranchs and many other beautiful creatures that become active after sunset. We sail all night to the Brothers Islands. The sea is calm, and the hum of the engine and the gentle rocking make us fall asleep like children in our cabins. The next day I wake up before dawn at 4:40 a.m. I would love to stay in bed and sleep an hour longer. I get up because I know that in a moment the Red Sea will be flooded by the golden orange glow of the sun entering the sky. If I stayed in bed, I would miss out on this beautiful spectacle. It is only when we go beyond our comfort zone, overcome our weaknesses, laziness, fears and dare to
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We leave the harbour early in the morning, the sea is
fight for our dreams, that we experience the beauty of this
very calm, and the air temperature is over 35°C. Our diving
world (we are rewarded with a unique sunrise or a magical
equipment is already prepared and ready for us to put it on
dive with sharks).
and jump into the water. We swim about two hours to the
Two stone islands Little Brother and Big Brother emerge
first dive site Panorama Reef, where we do a check dive. The
from the sea bathed in the orangish glow of the rising sun.
When we take our eyes off the enormous walls, we can see schools of barracudas and tuna in the blue depths.
I couldn't have dreamed up a more beautiful gift in the morn-
southern stone underwater wall. Here we also meet beautiful
ing than this incredible spectacle in the sky.
white tip and black tip reef sharks.
"Big Brother", whose shape resembles a submarine,
"Little Brother", on the other hand, consists mainly of the
stands out from its smaller brother thanks to its beautiful
eastern and western walls, which are overgrown with gorgoni-
English-built lighthouse, which has been in operation since
an forests that look spectacular against the stone background.
1884 until today. Right at the foot of the island at a depth of
When we take our eyes off the enormous walls, we can see
about 25 metres (it descends to 80 metres) lies the beautiful
schools of barracudas and tuna in the blue depths. To dive
wreck of the transport ship Numidia, which fell into the reef
off the coast of the two islands we use a zodiac, to which we
and sank on 29 February 1901. 120 years after the sinking of
come back after our dive. Certain safety procedures must be
the ship, its remains look spectacular. The metal structure is
followed due to the presence of sharks such as longimanus.
overgrown with phenomenal coral gardens and inhabited by
They are considered dangerous to humans, as occasional at-
countless species of sea creatures. A few decades later, not
tacks occur. This is mostly due to risky behaviour of people who
far from the wreck of the Numidia, in 1957, another wreck
in order to entertain tourists attract the sharks by throwing,
rested, named the Aida, which came to the island with sup-
for example, pieces of chicken into the water. These sharks
plies for the lighthouse keepers and encountered stormy
began to more boldly approach boats and divers, especially
weather, during which it hit the reef and its hull broke into
those emerging towards the surface. For the safety of divers,
two parts. Today we can see her remains at about 28 metres
certain safety rules have been introduced, which every diver
(down to 52 metres). The Aida is a beautiful wreck, but it
should strictly follow. After finishing the dive and during the
exudes a penetrating darkness that is difficult to express in
safety stop at 5 meters, divers ascend in pairs along the rope
words... It is very austere and dark, and its entirety seems to
attached to the signal buoy. Once a pair ascends to a zodiac,
be shrouded in mist... "Big Brother" is not only two beautiful
then two more divers can ascend until the entire group of div-
shipwrecks, but also beautiful coral gardens, which cover the
ers is on the boat.
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During a safety stop at about 5 metres, suddenly a large shadow appears in the distance and unhurriedly approaches us. It is a hammerhead shark with all its curiosity, swimming slowly, majestically, with the rays of the morning sun reflecting on its skin.
Our dive guide has shown us a video he had taken with his
a zodiac and set sail for our first dive in this extraordinary
GoPro camera a few months earlier, when two tourists, after
place. We jump into the water with negative buoyancy and try
completing a safety stop, reached the zodiac, and a longima-
to swim as fast as possible to the slope of the vertically falling
nus emerged from the abyss just behind them and began
stone wall covered with soft and hard corals. Usually in this
circling them dangerously. The dive guide began banging his
place there are very strong currents, but not this time, the sea
carabiner against his cylinder to distract the shark. He adopted
is very calm not only on the surface but also underwater. We
an upright position and did not let the shark out of his sight.
dive to about 30 metres in search of sharks, and one species in
Fortunately, all ended well, and everyone made it back to the
particular: the hammerhead shark. They usually appear when
boat safely. This does not change the fact that during each
there are strong currents, so the chances of meeting them
dive you need to take special precautions (such as swimming
today are slim. After 35 minutes of searching we swim closer
in a group, and when a shark appears, you should stay upright
to the beautiful reef and slowly start to surface, losing hope
and observe the individual).
for an encounter with sharks. During a safety stop at about
On the boat in addition to our group there are several other
5 metres, suddenly a large shadow appears in the distance and
participants of the cruise, of different nationalities. We form
unhurriedly approaches us. It is a hammerhead shark with all
two separate teams; one team is from Poland and the other is
its curiosity, swimming slowly, majestically, with the rays of the
called International. One day we dive first, the next day we dive
morning sun reflecting on its skin. I start shouting out of joy
as the second ones. There is also a couple of older Americans
into my regulator, giving thanks for this extraordinary gift we
who have stayed for another dive safari and have their own
have been given by the sea.
private dive guide.
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On our second dive in the same spot, just after we had
To Daedalus Reef, which lies in the middle of the Red Sea
taken a zodiac off the boat, our dive guide noticed a small
and is a tiny island with a beautiful lighthouse in the middle,
bird in the water that was terribly tired and did not have the
we sail about 10 hours. After a morning briefing, we board
strength to make it to the island. We fished it out, saving its
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life. When we made sure the bird was safe on the boat we went for a dive, halfway there the engine on the zodiac stopped working. Our little captain was doing his best to start the machine, but every attempt to nourish the engine failed. The heat was pouring from the sky and we slowly started to drift. We decided to jump out of the zodiac where we were. We jumped into the water with negative buoyancy, and after a while a hammerhead shark came up to
Don’t settle for less.
us from the blue abyss, followed by another and another. Sometimes it is
Elite design. Top performance.
not worth fighting with fate, but surrender to what it brings, and it turns out
With Atomic Aquatics, the only
that a situation that at first seemed uncomfortable became the best possible one. The international group that dived second that day did not encounter
limits are your own.
a single shark. During the third dive on Daedalus Reef we swam to the western wall, where between 5 and 10 meters there are impressive colonies of anemones, which
www.nurkowa nie -ecn.pl PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
37
t r av e l s
When we came out of the water, another surprise awaited us, a herd of bottlenose dolphins swam up to our zodiac. They stayed so close that they were within arm's reach.
are inhabited by clownfish. Nowhere else in the world have I seen such a concentration of these fish and such a beautiful coral reef, which I can compare to the one on Raja Ampat. It was not only the anemones that enchanted me, but also the hammerhead sharks that swam past from time to time and the schools of tuna and barracuda. This extraordinary day could only be crowned by a magical sunset, which we admired together from the boat. We arrived at Elphinstone Reef at dawn after a short morning briefing. This site is famous for its very strong currents, but also for its rich underwater life, beautiful coral gardens and large sea creatures such as grey reef sharks and longimanus sharks. On our first dive at Elphinstone, the current is minimal. We were even more surprised when a hammerhead came by and we were able to see it up close, there was also a school of tuna. In the middle of the dive we were joined by a large napoleon, which obviously wanted us to give it something to eat. Some DMs take hard boiled eggs with them underwater and feed fish with them. The napoleon that swam with us until the end of the dive, was obviously hoping for a little something. When we came out of the water, another surprise awaited us, a herd of bottlenose dolphins swam up to our zodiac. They stayed so close that they were within arm's reach.
38
ADVERTISEMENT
That day we did two more dives on Elphinstone Reef, and the next day we were supposed to dive on the Salem Express wreck. Unfortunately, our plans needed to be changed. One of the participants of the diving safari, an American from the international group, after leaving the last dive suddenly felt unwell and fell on the deck of the boat, unable to get up. The crew reacted immediately, gave the man oxygen, checked his computer and placed him in a safe position. There were no typical signs of decompression sickness on his body The crew immediately responded with oxygen, checked the man's computer and placed him in a safe position. Unfortunately, the man's condition was not improving, so the boat captain decided to immediately return to the port in Hurghada. In hospital it turned out that the American had suffered a pressure injury and had to undergo several sessions in a hyperbaric chamber. According to the American's computer, each of the dives was carried out correctly. We made our next dives off the coast of Giftun Island, thus ending the safari adventure. Maybe we did not manage to see the wreck of the Salem Express, but we experienced the presence of sharks, dolphins and other creatures that inhabit the Red Sea, and most importantly the American survived...
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
39
o u r co n v e r s at i o n s
4baltic FOUR FOR BALTIC
My conversation with Tomek Ramutkowski, originator and founder of the 4baltic Association
ly participating in training. Since the very beginning I leaned towards the wrecks and technical dives. I wasn't interested in recreation. Wojciech Zgoła: Have you ever seen Perfect Diver Magazine?
But, you know, everyone starts with recreation.
Tomek Ramutkowski: Honestly?
Sure, I did such dives for a few years, until my first tech course, advanced nitrox. However, most of them were training and
Yes...
skill dives.
You know, I must have seen it. The format and visual form seem familiar to me.
Many divers are now on the verge of recreational and technical diving.
40
Great. Here's the latest printed edition, and you can look
Exactly. I have a lot of trainees who are already doing advanced
at it in your free time.
nitrox, one stage, you know, for a gentle start. No one has to
Thanks, I will do so.
go down 100 m deep right away.
How many years have you been diving?
It shouldn't even be that everyone descends 100 meters.
Around 15 years, I think. Yes, it's been a while. And I dive quite
Sure, no. But see, from the commercial point of view there is
intensively. My first instructor course I took with the late Robert
a lot of pressure from instructors and trainees too, to do quick
Klein, but before that, I had spent seasons in Jastarnia, active-
courses, cave or technical diving courses...
our conversations
It is the size of five zlotys and has been living in our waters for several dozen years. The American Crab (Rhithropanopeus harrisi) has a breeding season which will last until the end of August.
Do you happen to dive not in the Baltic Sea?
There is also more and more talk about the penetration of
(laughs) ...of course, although I must admit that I enter the
chemical compounds from the sunken chemical weapons
lakes rather reluctantly. I only dive in lakes when I do it with
from WWII to the Baltic environment.
the trainees.
Some also believe that the wrecks themselves are not good for the environment. And I personally regret the fact that, for
Because you have to...
example, Franken was closed to divers. As the 4baltic Associa-
Because I have to, yes. The point is that the lake offers more
tion, we will strive to make it possible to dive on it. A gentleman
predictable conditions and a relatively shallow depth, which is
or a lady from the Maritime Office will not go there and verify
important in the case of skill dives.
the condition of this wreck, and we, as divers, can go down to the wreck and make, for example, photographic or film docu-
But Attersee or Garda are ok?
mentation of the state of Franken. Thanks to us, the the Office
Yes, these are OK. Although recently I got hooked on mac-
can be kept up to date.
ro-photography. During my last stay in Croatia, I was able to "sit" for hours with a rebreather on my back and look for ob-
Tell me more about this Association.
jects to photograph. I was able to spend 2 or 3 hours with
Well, as I am a local, I live and dive here, as I said a moment
snails. A beautiful thing, but it was also in the sea :)
ago, the desire to do something grew in me. I didn't want to just watch, but take things into my own hands. I prefer to create real-
I see. Now, where did you get the idea for 4baltic associa-
ity than to be just a passive observer. But what tipped the scales?
tion? Was it a sudden idea or did it develop slowly, gaining
Well, the fact that all the associations that I knocked to with the
maturity?
desire to cooperate, did not want to cooperate. They are rather
4baltic was an idea that was in my head for a long time. From
closed, hermetic. That's why I thought – let's do something on
the very beginning of my diving adventure, I have been diving
our own. Most of the "founding fathers" of 4baltic are my train-
on wrecks. Over the years and hundreds of hours under water,
ees at various levels of training, close acquaintances and friends.
you can see a drastic change in what's under the water. How much cod is there on wrecks (and how much of it was earlier),
How many people make 4baltic?
and why it is not there actually. The flounders are in a deplorable
We got together and created this Association in 8 people.
condition. Skinny, haggard, with some spots. You can see to the condition of the water itself: farmers fertilise their fields, and ev-
How has it been received by the environment? To what
erything flows down into the Bay and into the sea with the rains.
extent does the claim of a few people "we support 4baltic"
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
41
o u r co n v e r s at i o n s
translate into real help and commitment? The response from the community exceeded my wildest expectations. Some of it is probably just idle talk, but some people took it seriously and hopefully something will come of it. We want to cooperate with various groups, not only divers, but also those practising other sports, e.g. kitesurfing. We will be happy to work with all of them. And what are the main goals of 4baltic? We are doing everything that can be done for the Baltic Sea. The name 4baltic has 4 hidden pillars. These are: broadly
dation on a permanent basis since last year and one of the
understood environmental protection, the second is the search
finals this year will be conducted under water.
and identification of wrecks, the third is to raise the awareness
Great. We want to talk to our local authorities and organise
of divers and the entire society about the ecosystem and what
some local events. Of course, we'll let you know.
resources we have. The fourth goal or pillar is the integration So, how can we help as PD?
of our environment.
It is already great that information about 4baltic will appear in And this is the number 4 (four) in the name?
your newspaper, that there has been a response from you and
Yes, this is this number four: for Baltic and 4 pillars, 4 main
that more people will find out about our initiative. This makes
goals.
me believe that there are people with whom we can go further. Do more. In general, anyone can join the association, but from
Great idea.
the formal point of view, it is the case that a given candidate
Thanks (laughter)
must be approved by two members of the 4baltic Association and it is then voted on. We also want such a candidate to write
I am curious to see what goals will be realised later in re-
a cover letter or meet with us to see what they would like to
ality, because it is not going to be easy.
contribute to the association as our members.
Well, that's the way it is, even if you want to cooperate with people, there are always some obstacles. But that is precisely
Tomek, thank you very much for the meeting and that
the task for our Association. Because together we can do more.
you found time to come to Łeba and talk about the Baltic Sea and about 4baltic. We will stay in touch and at your
If, for example, you are planning to clean the bottom of
disposal.
the Baltic Sea in some part of the sea, let me know. Perfect
Thanks too. I am very pleased to meet you and to talk to you.
Diver has been cooperating with the Nasza Ziemia FounTOMEK RAMUTKOWSKI
42
He has been fascinated with the underwater
From the beginning of his diving journey, he has
It is the camera that has recently become a per-
world from an early age. Even as a little boy, with
been associated with Baltic wrecks, where he
manent part of his inventory, and the welfare of
an old type mask, he was looking at underwater
dives long and deep. It is also there that he trains
fauna and flora is crucial for him. Therefore, he
creatures. However, he waited until 2007 for his
his trainees most often, placing great emphasis
actively works to protect wildlife.
first breath from the diving regulator. And that's
on the high level of their training.
Founder and President of the 4baltic Association,
when it all started!:)
Tomek is an Instructor Trainer, rebreather, techni-
owner at Deepbusters and originator of Wreck-
Currently, he has a history of several thousand
cal and wreck instructor in several training organ-
busters.
dives in various places around the world, al-
isations. For over 10 years, he has been sharing
though it is quality, not quantity, that is key to him.
his knowledge with others.
www.4baltic.pl,
He dives mainly technically, on wrecks and in
He often takes a break from technical wreck or
www.deepbusters.pl,
caves. For several years he has been fascinated
cave dives in favour of shallower dives, in search
www.wreckbusters.pl,
by closed-circuit diving.
of an animal to 'shoot'. With a camera, of course!:)
www.facebook.com/tomekramutkowskitechnical
Rehasport - motor medicine
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
ONLINE Specialty or name City
Search
Find injury Select the body part in which you feel pain.
www.rehasport.pl PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
43
q ua r r y
‘Hemmoor virus‘ Text and photos MARIUSZ BEBEL (Morox)
HEMMOOR
Hamburg
Berlin
In 1989, I became a huge fan of this lake. As a newly trained police diver, I entered the area without permission through an opening in the fence and stood speechless in front of the lake, which shimmered in the most beautiful shades of blue and turquoise. I absolutely had to dive there! The very next day I made my first dive in Kreidesee lake, and up to now there have been countless subsequent ones. I dare say I was infected with the 'Hemmoor virus', which I still successfully spread among many new divers today. Holger Schmoldt Owner of Kreidesee Hemmoor
44
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
45
q ua r r y
T
hose who practice scuba diving will, sooner or later,
under the water is so large that we are able to explain to
come across the Kreidesee diving centre in Hemmoor,
everyone how to get to individual attractions without using
Lower Saxony, which has already been voted several
navigation devices.
times the best diving centre in Germany, Austria and Switzer-
Due to the specific climate, the quarry never freezes.
land. In the years 1862–1976, chalk was mined here for the production of cement and a pit was dug, which within six years
WE WOULD BE HAPPY TO ASSIST YOU. BE OUR GUEST!
after turning off the pumps filled with crystal clear spring wa-
Kreidesee lake covers an area of 33 hectares and is 60 meters
ter. Thus, in 1982, Kreidesee lake was created. In 1986, the
deep. During longer periods of good weather, visibility can
factory was demolished and the lake was to be converted into
increase up to 25 meters, thus ensuring an optimal three-di-
a red mud dump.
mensional space. This attracts around 30,000 divers annually, also from neighbouring countries.
HOWEVER, SOMETHING DIFFERENT HAPPENED
An excellent diving infrastructure has been created around
The lake still exists today and houses many abandoned open-
the lake: the largest and fastest cylinder filling station in Eu-
cast mine artefacts that now allow divers and Kreidesee visitors
rope, favourable descents and access to water, some also
to experience the era that had passed. Artefacts from recent
for the disabled, over 30 Scandinavian cottages and summer
times, such as free-floating aircraft, trucks, caravans, cars and
apartments, as well as a campsite directly by the lake.
ships are also valuable diving targets. You can often find there trout and salmon from fish farming.
Unfortunately, the attractiveness of the dive site requires you to book accommodation well in advance.
There is no classic roping there (maybe except for the
46
roping from the exit No. 4 to the truck), and only the more
Rafał Grazewicz took some of the photos during common
important attractions are marked with buoys. It is best to
dives.
dive with a compass, but the number of characteristic points
CN Octopus Hamburg/Hemmoor
quarry
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
47
k n ow l e dg e
Mermaiding MERMAID ACADEMY Text EDITORIAL OFFICE
Photo Akademia Syren
According to legend, the home of the mermaids, beautiful fish-tailed women, was an island in the Mediterranean Sea. Sailors were to see them there and hear their beautiful, seductive singing. Modern mermaids no longer sing, but you don't have to travel far to meet them. Thanks to the Mermaid Academy, they also came to Poland.
48
M
ermaiding, as mermaid tail diving is called, was born nearly 10 years ago. Fashion for this sport has already taken over Western Europe, the United States
and many Asian countries. Mermaiding appeared in Poland 3 years ago thanks to the Mermaid Academy in Warsaw. – When I first saw Mermaids in Italy, where I was working as a diving instructor, I laughed. But when I put the tail on myself and tried it, I fell in love with it. Freedom, joy, humour are all that is hidden in this women's sport – says Magdalena Gębicka, mermaiding instructor, founder of the Mermaid Academy.
knowledge
Many of the women who came to us fell in love with apnea diving and after the mermaiding course they decided to take another training. Photo Konwentphoto Deepspot
However, mermaiding is not only a sport for women, there
maid's tail fantastically sculpts the muscles of the abdomen
are men who try their hand at mermaid-tail swimming. Inter-
and buttocks. Besides, for many adult women it is also a child-
estingly, according to Greek mythology, they are called Tritons
hood dream come true.
(half human, half fish).
– As it turned out, for many of our students it is also the first
It is the tail that distinguishes mermaids from freedivers.
step towards freediving. Many of the women who came to us fell
Many people wonder what it really hides inside. In a fantasti-
in love with apnea diving and after the mermaiding course they
cally colourful material, the shape of which depends only on
decided to take another training. The mermaid course classes
our imagination, a traditional monofin is often hidden. And
can be compared to basic freediving training, because we teach
this is the true underwater propeller. As in any sport, there are
basic movements under water or breathing exercises. It's just
different types of monofins, ranging from hardness to size or
that we use a monofin dressed in a beautiful tail – explains
method of donning. In mermaiding, however, neither speed
Magdalena Gębicka.
nor depth matters, but the grace with which the mermaid moves underwater. And this, among other things, what you can learn on the mermaid course. – We run courses in accordance with the guidelines of the SSI diving federation. I am very happy that we have managed to develop this field. People from all over Poland come to our courses, because we also train instructors – explains Magdalena Gębicka. – Thanks to this, you can find a mermaid school in almost every major city in the country – she adds. Mermaid tail diving is great fun. It is a sport for both children and adults. Therefore, it is a perfect idea to spend time with your child. It is fantastic fun for our kids, and for busy mums – a way to relax and exercise. Swimming in the mer-
Photo Konwentphoto Deepspot PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
49
k n ow l e dg e
Photo Studio Zahora
Photo Studio Zahora
AS IN EVERY FIELD, ALSO IN THIS ONE WE HAVE SEVERAL LEVELS
Try Mermaid SSI – discover mermaid tail swimming
Mermaid SSI – mermaid course
This is a course for those who want to try this sport, see if it is
around the world! Swimming in the mermaid's tail is a great
for them. During such classes, the instructor conducts a short
form of activity for adults and thanks to it we can improve our
introductory lesson on swimming equipment and techniques,
condition and take care of our figure. Such swimming involves
and then during the pool classes with the trainees, they carry
more the muscles of the legs, abdomen, buttocks and back.
out basic exercises. Minimum age 6 years.
Mermaid Explorers SSI – a course for the younger mermaid The Mermaid Explorers course is aimed at the youngest water lovers. You only need to be 6 years old and know how
During the course, we learn the proper movement in a monofin, work with the breath, and relaxation techniques. The mermaid course consists of a theoretical and practical part and ends with an exam. All SSI Mermaid learning materials are available in Polish!
to swim (the ability to swim a minimum distance of 12 meters
Ocean Mermaid SSI – Advanced Course
is required). During classes with the Mermaid SSI instructor,
This course is aimed at mermaids who want to develop their
we provide not only a lot of new skills, but also a lot of fun.
skills. Ocean Mermaid is a training course designed for mer-
Children learn to swim in a mermaid's tail, perform simple ac-
maids who are already Mermaid certified and want to go be-
robatics under water and learn the basic issues related to safe
yond the limits. Open water swimming brings new skills. Train-
diving and apnea swimming. All this is full of fun and full of
ing is conducted outdoors or in the Deepspot.
colours, because the classes are conducted in mermaid tails from the very first meeting.
50
SSI Mermaid programs are making an astonishing career
k n ow l e dg e
Diver Rescue
HOW TO EFFECTIVELY PROVIDE FIRST AID
Text and photos HUBERT REISS
This time I would like to introduce you to the equipment
Anyone who begins their adventure with such a hobby as diving, from the very first day of the course must follow the safety rules and remember them so that they know how to help themselves or, if necessary, the other divers.
O
that you can use yourself until the arrival of the emergency services. One of the more and more frequently found in diving bases, apart from the oxygen set, first aid kit and a precise evacuation plan, is... the AED set (Automated External Defibrillator). It is compact and small, which makes it easy to carry. We can see it on a daily basis in offices, swimming pools, in medical clinics, as well as in public transport or transport in general. It is placed in a visible and marked place in a special
f course, nobody talks about being a hero, it is more
"capsule" on the wall. Instructions for use should be at hand
about logical and consistent actions in order to help
near the AED.
or minimise the risk, from emergency procedures re-
Thanks to the courtesy of a friendly fire brigade, we had the
garding hardware problems to possible physical problems we
opportunity to undergo training with the use of such a device
or our partners can have.
and to compare the way AEDs from three manufacturers work. A small red case the size of a thicker book with a life-saving
It is worth mentioning here the EFR, DAN and Polish Red
device inside… such a paradox.
Cross first aid courses. As the editor of Perfect Diver, we
After opening the case, we can see the device with elec-
are convinced that it is an absolute prerequisite to dive
trodes for adults already installed in the device, additional
consciously and safely!
electrodes for children, scissors for possible cutting of clothes
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
51
k n ow l e dg e
and a disposable razor. The device's battery life is a minimum of 200 defibrillations or 4 hours of operation, and the battery
2. for resuscitation of children, the lower voltage of the AED is provided (children 50J/adults 150J).
life is up to 4 years. The weight is only 1.5 kg, and the memory allows you to record the data of the first 15 minutes of the ECG as well as events and decisions made as a result of the analysis of the patient's condition during the entire incident.
Below there is a table with the classification of electrodes depending on the age of the victim AGE
ELECTRODES
ENERGY SETTINGS
more than 8
standard
standard
the law, there is no unambiguous normative interpretation
1–8
children's size
an attachment reducing energy level
explaining whether specialised training is required to use an
up to 1 year
not recommended
not recommended
The equipment is designed so that even a person without medical training can provide help. Of course, in the light of
AED. Regulations in various legal systems range from the requirement of special training to the view that modern AEDs are devices that are very easy to use, and additionally voice-
The device comes with a step-by-step pictorial guide on
guide the rescuer through the entire resuscitation algorithm,
how to proceed and use the AED correctly. Of course, all these
and therefore should be available to every witness of the
points are also communicated by voice during the resuscita-
incident. However, in times of growing indifference, it is much
tion procedure.
better to, at least, try to provide first aid and be a good Samaritan
52
Not every diver is a rescuer, although everyone should know the principles of first aid. For me personally, the Res-
A lot of people are probably wondering why separate elec-
cue Diver course was really helpful and allowed me to plan
trodes for children are provided and what for a key to change
my dives even more precisely so as to avoid emergencies and
the mode is – to change the mode to a paediatric one? For
threats. It is a big responsibility but also a comfort that we
two reasons:
know how to react at a particular moment.
1. the electrodes are smaller than the adult version, al-
A good practice when organising a diving trip in a group or
though each manufacturer may have a different solution
with a partner is to equip yourself with an individual medical
knowledge
and other equipment –
sticking
plasters for dressing larger skin cuts, triangular bandage, stiffening splint, scissors, razor, tweezers, 20 ml syringe – for washing wounds, waste bag, a set of sterile bandages of various widths, elastic bandage, disinfecting wipes, disposable mask for mouthto-mouth resuscitation, a long strip of plaster cut to size, dressing patches and sterile saline. Ready-made sets of "diving" first aid kits and oxygen sets are available on the market. Preceded by an appropriate course, they are an invaluable source of help in the field for the diver and/or rescuer until transport to the hospital or medical services are provided. Useful, but not required, is the Triage kit. I am talking about the one personalised for diving, because
kit for segregating the injured – it allows you to determine
it differs from the standard one with a few elements, and it is
the condition of the injured in a larger group in terms of the
totally different from the basic car set
priority of providing help.
On every trip, be it Polish open waters or salty or sweet warm waters abroad, it's good to have:
from diving perspective ` several sets of disposable gloves, e.g. latex (our safety is the most important)
Although diving locally in the rushes at a shallow depth is very pleasant and allows you to discover virgin places full of life and clear water, you should always remember to properly prepare and secure such a trip from a medical point
` a resuscitation mask covering the mouth and nose
of view. Choosing dive bases
` several thermal blankets / space blankets
that are properly equipped
` gel for burns
is the first step in planning
` cold and hot chemical compress (overheating / hypother-
a safe trip
mia)
Uncle Hubert and the en-
` rehydrating measures
tire editorial team of Perfect
` measures against diarrhea and seasickness
Diver know what they say and always promote safety;)
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
53
freediving
Static apnoea RESEARCH ON ATHLETES
Text and photos ALEŠ KOŠTOMAJ
Measurement of static apnoea in water
ABSTRACT
Depth competitions are held in seas or lakes. Distance and
In a previous issue of Perfect Diver Magazine, we intro-
duration competitions are held in swimming pools. Depth,
duced you the performance factors in static apnea. In this
distance, and duration of a dive depend on various limiting
one, we will introduce you the details of the research on
factors. An exercise regimen is essential to achieve and exceed
athletes. In the next issue of Perfect Diver Magazine, we
ever-improving results. The effects of a proper exercise regi-
will present the results of the research on athletes.
men are reflected in achieving greater depth (in all depth disci-
The main purpose of the research involving eight Slovenian
plines), distance (in all distance disciplines), and duration of the
men divers on the breath, was to compare the effects of stat-
dive (in static apnoea). With practice, therefore, a diver adapts
ic apnoea after inhalation and after exhalation carried out in
to certain extreme circumstances. How this is done, however,
water and on land. The divers that were measured have been
is an important question. Of all the forms of diving, static ap-
in the regular training process for many years, and they are
noea is the most suitable for research, as during apnoea (in
considered to be excellent breath-hold divers at national and
water and on land) a diver remains completely motionless.
world levels. Each diver performed static apnoeas in water, two maximum static apnoeas done after breathing in and two after
SUBJECT MATTER AND ITS DRAWBACKS
breathing out. And then each diver did the same on land. We
Breath-hold divers’ trainings consist of different practice types,
measured the following variables: the time duration of each
or forms of exercises, which are performed according to the
apnoea, the beginning of a spontaneous contraction of the
season and available conditions which enable their execution.
respiratory muscles, the heart rate, systolic blood pressure,
The main goal of most breath-hold divers is deep diving, which
diastolic blood pressure and blood saturation with oxygen.
is only possible in seas or lakes. Due to logistical and weather conditions, divers practice in swimming pools during most
54
INTRODUCTION
of the season. In the preparation period they mainly perform
The main element of competitive forms of breath-hold diving
swimming exercises of various intensity, which are conse-
are individual dives, which are measured in depth, distance,
quently upgraded by practicing static apnoea after inhalation
and duration. Breath-hold diving competitions are held in sev-
and after exhalation, as well as practicing dynamic apnoea
eral disciplines and according to well-defined rules set by two
with or without fins. Static apnoea and both forms of dynamic
international diving federations (AIDA and CMAS).
apnoeas are practiced in the form of a series which consist of
freediving
Measurement of static apnoea on land
shorter or longer apnoeas with shorter or longer breaks in be-
lows breath-hold divers a more rational approach to training
tween. In doing so, divers follow the principle of adapting to the
for apnoea duration.
characteristically low levels of O2 in the body during apnoea
Apnoea after exhalation is shorter. Changes happen fast-
by performing long apnoeas with long breaks between them.
er. Therefore, it is not necessary to dive very deep to achieve
This is called an O2 workout. Series of shorter apnoeas with
similar effects in ear equalization as in apnoea after inhalation.
shorter breaks in-between, however, represent a CO2 workout.
In apnoea after inhalation there is a risk of developing decom-
With this workout, divers reduce the need to inhale, or to some
pression sickness. In apnoea after exhalation in deep diving,
extent even adapt to such a need. In summer months, breath-
this probability is very small.
hold divers supplement their exercises with deeper dives in
In apnoea after exhalation, the diving reflex is also more
seas and lakes, where they gradually adapt to the increasing
intense. Training static apnoea after exhalation is practiced
water pressure. In doing that, their lungs and ears are particu-
with different lung volumes. Smaller lung volumes are thought
larly strained. Throughout the whole season, divers can make
to have a greater effect on bradycardia, i.e. slow heart rate.
their practice more interesting in various ways, for example by
Breath-hold divers practice static apnoea in water and also
playing underwater rugby or hockey in swimming pools, or by
on land. Any form of practicing apnoea with a submerged face,
underwater fishing in the sea.
i.e. with the mouth and nose immersed into water, can be
The training regimen in one competitive season consists of
life-threatening due to the possibility of drowning, therefore,
different combinations of the previously mentioned training
the presence of a safety diver is essential. Practicing apnoea on
types. They are largely based on expertise which is gained from
land in the supine position is the only safe form when exercis-
divers’ individual experiences and from knowledge of general
ing alone. It is important to lie on a comfortable surface with
training principles. Unfortunately, there have been very few
a slightly raised torso and head, and without a nose clip. Only
clear and scientifically confirmed data in the field of diving
in this case, the body will save itself and will be able to start
practices so far. The main reason for this is probably the in-
breathing after the loss of consciousness because there is an
ability of the current measurement technology for monitoring
unobstructed passage of air through the mouth and nose.
the changes in the body of a diver in such extreme conditions
All other apnoea training positions on land (sitting, standing,
(during deep dives) as is high water pressure and the aquatic
running, walking, cycling…) without safety measures can be
environment itself. In swimming pool disciplines, the measur-
dangerous in case of loss of consciousness. There are no sig-
ing is less demanding because there is no water pressure. Due
nificant differences between the duration of apnoea when per-
to the movement of the body and the aquatic environment
formed in water or on land. Given that all apnoea competitions
itself, the measurements are more demanding in both dynamic
are always in water, it would be interesting to compare static
apnoeas than in static apnoea, in which the body is completely
apnoea performed in water and on land.
motionless. Static apnoea with its characteristics, therefore,
The main purpose of this study is, therefore, to compare the
allows us to perform measurements in the most reliable way.
effects of static apnoea after inhalation and after exhalation
The greater the volume of the last inhale, the longer the
when performed in water and on land.
apnoea, and vice versa. Practicing apnoea after exhalation al-
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
55
freediving
The warm-up protocol before static apnoea in water
METHODS
subjects
In water, the subjects wore neoprene suits, as the water temperature was 27.5° C and the air temperature 29.5° C. The subjects lay in a prone position on the water surface with their
The study involved 8 Slovenian male breath-hold divers (age:
face submerged underwater so that their mouths and noses
37 ± 8, body height: 182 ± 8 cm, body weight: 82 ± 8 kg, the
were immersed in water. On their faces, the subjects wore only
best personal static apnoea result in water after packing: 402
a nose clip. Diving mask, swimming goggles, and underwater
± 60 s). All subjects have been in a regular training process for
lenses were not allowed.
many years and are considered excellent breath-hold divers both at a national and international level.
description of measurements
56
The warm-up protocol before static apnoea on land
On land, the subjects were dressed in swimsuits. Measurements were performed on the pool platform. They lay in a supine position on a comfortable surface with their torso and head slightly raised. On their face they only had a nose clip.
The measurements took place in the swimming pool at the
During each apnoea, subjects signaled the start of sponta-
Faculty of Sports in Ljubljana (Slovenia). They were divided into
neous contraction of their respiratory muscles by raising their
two parts (in water and on land). Each subject performed two
hand. When the subjects were no longer able to hold their
maximal static apnoeas after inhalation (hereafter apnoea af-
breath, they ended the apnoea.
ter inhalation) and two maximal static apnoeas after exhalation
The following variables were measured for all apnoeas:
(hereafter apnoea after exhalation) in water. Subjects repeated
duration of individual apnoea (EA – end of apnoea), onset of
the same protocol on land. The order of individual apnoeas
spontaneous contraction of respiratory muscles (CP – contrac-
(after inhalation, after exhalation, in water, and on land) was
tion point), heart rate (HR), blood oxygen saturation (SaO2),
random and different for different subjects.
and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP).
The warm-up protocol was the same when the measure-
All subjects and all apnoeas were recorded with a video
ment was performed in water and on land. Before the first
camera. The video camera also recorded all subjects’ signals
apnoea, the subjects had five minutes to warm up. There were
(a sign for CP and EA), the electronic stopwatch for CP and EA
three-minute breaks between individual apnoeas. No restric-
timekeeping, and the HR and SaO2 measuring device.
tions were imposed for the warm-up or breath-up before
Each subject performed two maximal apnoeas after inha-
and between apnoeas, with the exception of hyperventilation
lation and two maximal apnoeas after exhalation in water and
which was prohibited. Everyone was able to use their own
on land. The longer apnoea of each was chosen for further
technique. However, the last inhalation before apnoea and
analysis.
the last exhalation before apnoea were prescribed. The last
The subjects placed a heart rate monitor under a neoprene
inhalation before apnoea after inhalation was maximal, but
suit directly on their bare skin on the chest. HR was measured
without packing.
with a Polar heart rate monitor, in water and on land, continu-
The last exhalation before apnoea after exhalation was
ously every five seconds before, during, and after each apnoea.
maximal, with the subjects trying to empty all the air from
HR is shown as a number of heart beats per minute (1/min).
the lungs.
HR was also measured with two pulse oximeters as a control
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freediving
Measurement of spirometry
measurement. HR was analyzed at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, and 100% of the final time duration in all eight subjects. For all apnoeas in water and on land, SaO2 was measured continuously with two devices, before, during and after apnoea. We used two pulse oximeters. Both forceps with pulse oximetry sensors were attached to the index finger and the ring finger of the subject’s right hand. SaO2 was analyzed at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% and 100% of the final time duration in all eight subjects. Blood pressure was measured in water and on land, while resting a minute before the onset of apnoea and every minute of the duration of individual
DIVE STRONG. DIVE ZEAGLE. Every mission. In every condition. Zeagle has your back.
apnoea. We measured it on the subject’s left hand with a blood pressure monitor. Systolic and diastolic BP values were analyzed at 0%, 40%, and 90% of the final duration of measurement.
data processing Statistical analysis was performed with the SPSS statistical program. After calculating the descriptive statistics, the data were analyzed using the general linear model (GLM) analysis of variance for repeated measurements and post hoc analysis with the Bonferroni test. All data will be presented with tables and charts in the next issue of the magazine. RESOURCES For readers interested in additional references please contact me through email.
www.nurkowanie-ecn.pl
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
57
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WHY DIVE PRISM 2 Nick Hollis explains The PRISM 2 is a simple and reliable rebreather that can be used for all types of diving from the shallowest photography dives to the deepest exploration dives. P2 owners are the silent stormtroopers of the underwater world. On a recent liveaboard trip (pre-Covid) there were a number of rebreathers from different manufacturers and a few PRISM 2’s on board. The divers on the trip saw that the PRISM 2 was one of the few that performed consistently and reliability and that those P2 divers didn’t miss a dive. WHY DIVE THE PRISM 2 REBREATHER? Why? Overall, the PRISM 2 is a simple unit, built from durable materials that require fewer parts than most. These design features of the P2 add to its ease of service and reliability. Traveling divers of all levels have learned to keep a “Save-a-Dive” kit with them and that’s true for P2 divers as well. However, P2 divers typically don’t have to have more than a spare oxygen sensor, wiring harness, O-ring or breathing hose available, as it’s uncommon to need a replacement outside of an annual service. PRISM 2 REBREATHER Most CCRs today use a tried-and-true design of machining parts from Delrin or metals such as Aluminum and Stainless. This permits smaller manufacturers to have a consistent quality of product with minimum production quantities. While these other units perform OK, the results of this production method are time-consuming and result in bulky parts of no significant strength or durability benefit. Alternatively, the PRISM 2 uses a combination of injection molded plastics in the core of the unit. This manufacturing process lowers the cost of replacement parts, ensures part consistency and has the ability to use materials not available in smaller manufacturing processes. PRISM 2 ADVANTAGES The big advantage to the P2’s design and manufacturing is that it’s incredibly compact and lightweight, making it very easy to travel with. In fact, the P2 head and electronics can easily be packed into a carry on. Another cool feature is the P2’s clear-bucket design that no other rebreather incorporates. This allows your buddy to identify a critical leak during the initial safety checks before it becomes a major problem. The Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) cover also protects from interference with overhead environments and drops from the local dive site bench. It also, notably, doubles as a stormtrooper helmet.
58
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the most extreme conditions.
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These materials were chosen during
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The added weight and bulk of other re-
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www.nurkowanie-ecn.pl
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
59
planet earth
Eiders
SOFT-FEATHERED DIVERS
Text and photos WOJCIECH JAROSZ
Due to their large mass, eider can have a heavy take-off, but in flight they can be very fast
they remove the claws and legs, and then swallow along with
The heroes of this article are great at diving. They dive not only to enjoy the direct contact with the underwater world, dear Readers, but also for some more down-to-earth reasons.
T 60
the shell. What next? By studying the anatomy of the bird's digestive system, we will see that members of avifauna have a gizzard (also called 'gastric mill') just behind the glandular stomach. In this organ, the shells and carapaces of invertebrates are crushed, which are later of course removed outside. Some birds help their stomach muscles to grind down food by swallowing, for example, pebbles. For example an ostrich can accommodate even a kilogram of such material! Speaking of weight: it helps the birds to dive more effec-
hey usually descend to a few, or more rarely, several
tively. It is also worth mentioning at this point that eiders are
meters in order to pick something from the underwa-
the largest European diving ducks. Apart from their size, they
ter "buffet".
are distinguished by beautiful feathering, but as it often hap-
Most often, eider eat mussels (e.g. cockles, blue mussels),
pens with birds, this applies only to males and only during the
crustaceans, including crabs (e.g. Carcinus meanas called also
mating season. Contrasting and chic combination of white and
a shore crab), cephalopods, starfish, jellyfish and, rarely, even
black in a unique arrangement, a bit of subtle green and a hint
fish. Interestingly, they swallow whole mussels, from crabs
of pink – these are the eider colours. Plus yellow beak reaching
planet earth
Two pairs, ready to start breeding
the forehead and the stylish outfit is ready, not only for the
that ensures free flow and the necessary mixing of genes in the
evening out. Females, juveniles and males outside the mating
population), and then… leave. Yes, female eiders take care of
season are simply brown. When placed next to a fully coloured
the brood on their own, and to make it a bit easier, they often
male, they look like representatives of another species.
create large "bird kindergartens". In such kindergartens, duck-
Due to the considerable weight, eiders take off not really
lings, sometimes several dozen of them, are taken care of by
lightly, but when they accelerate, they can fly at speeds of over
a few females who support each other and share their duties.
100 km/h! What is unusual for these ducks is that these birds
A beautiful example of female solidarity in nature, isn't it? How-
interlace the phases of active flight with phases of gliding. They
ever, there is no point in assigning eider ladies any particularly
lose their ability to fly during moulting, but at some pint the
high motives, because such an arrangement simply turned out
feathers must be replaced with new ones. When they regain
to be profitable in evolutionary terms. However, from a human
the ability to fly with the new feathers, they begin to move
point of view, it is impossible to underestimate the involvement
to places where it will be possible to start looking for a partner
of bird mums in raising subsequent generations of suppliers of
with whom they will try to conceive little ducklings.
the warmest down on Earth. Exactly – undoubtedly, eider feath-
Every year, eider females return to the places where they
ers are so dear to mankind because of their down. And they are
were born (in ecology there is a term for this – philopatry).
mainly females who nibble the down from their breasts to wrap
Males, on the other hand, wander wherever their bird fancy
it around the eggs they lay. After the brood is finished, such
takes them (although not so completely because they are lim-
down is carefully selected from the nests to the last feather by
ited by their geographic range), changing their brooding places.
specialised collectors, because it is of great value. After all, the
Usually the opposite is true for birds – males attach themselves
most exclusive quilts and eiderdowns filled with eider feathers
to a specific area and defend it against competitors. In the end,
cost a fortune! Interestingly, using the attachment of females
the eider chevalier will always find a 'petticoat" in due time, fight
to the same places, in Iceland, for example, specially protect-
for her, fulfill his obligation to pass genes (it is male mobility
ed zones are created, where eiders reproduce every year and
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
61
planet earth
Kindergarteners (several month old ducklings) under the care of a female
62
breed providing, in return for protection, the desired feathers.
Sea experienced a severe decline in the eider population due
The unparalleled properties of their down are reflected in the
to the high mortality caused by pesticides flowing down the
Latin name of the species, because Somateria mollissima can be
Elbe, Weser and Ems. These toxins eventually found their way
translated as ' the softest wool'. Besides, in Polish language the
to the organisms of birds and their fatty tissue through all the
eider is known under the name which translated into English
links in the food chain. The females using it, while incubating
would be 'soft-feathered bird'. The term eider itself comes from
their eggs, were poisoned by substances released with the
Germanic languages and also means duck down – so everything
fat. Today, the whole area of high natural value is inscribed
revolves around thermally perfect feathers. Duck, goose or syn-
on the UNESCO World Heritage List. There are several world
thetic down can not match the eider down with unsurpassed
biosphere reserves and national parks. This allows us to hope
insulating properties. If it hadn't been so little accessible and
that eiders and other birds, as well as non-bird organisms, will
thus extremely expensive...
be safe in the future in the largest system of flats and tidal shal-
The eider's breeding season is also associated with anoth-
lows in the world, and where the Baltic eiders winter. Finishing
er curiosity related to the slimming of bird mums. It is not
the breeding strand, I would like to mention that the females
a voluntary starvation in order to improve one's image, but
fiercely defend the nest and only leave it as a last resort. When
a breeding strategy whose main goal is to take care of the fate
they are forced to do so because of an approaching predator,
of one's own children. During the less than a month of incuba-
they resort to a radical weapon used in the fight against the in-
tion period, females use only the previously accumulated fat
vader – they spray it with semi-liquid excrements with a highly
reserves, so as not to waste time for feeding and not to leave
unpleasant odour. As observations show, this is a factor that
the eggs unattended for this time – with at the most a few
discourages most of the wide range of eider egg amateurs
sips of water every few days. Unfortunately, adipose tissue has
from eating them.
the property that apart from accumulating spare materials, it
Where should we look for eider? They are northern birds
binds large amounts of impurities. In the 1960s, the Wadden
and sea birds ('sea birds' to such extent that they even drink
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Sexual dimorphism visible during the mating season makes it impossible to confuse females with males
NEED A DIVE BUDDY?
OCEANIC IS BUILT FOR ADVENTURE. ARE YOU?
Eider are happy to visit harbours, where they can be observed without going far into sea
salty sea water!). We can meet eider on the southern Baltic Sea, but only in winter – then they often visit the vicinity of ports accompanied by other sea ducks. Breeding takes place on our coast sporadically. On the other hand, the central and northern Baltic, the North Sea, the Norwegian Sea, and basically all the northern coasts of Eurasia and North America are places where you can meet these birds. The other two species of the genus Somateria, i.e. the king eider (S. spectabilis) and the spectacled eider (S. fischeri), visit Europe less frequently and are found in the far north, the latter in the Bering Sea. So, during trips to cooler seas, stay alert and watch carefully what birds jump up in front of the bow of your boats – maybe they will be beautiful eiders? That's what I wish our Dear Readers!
www.nurkowanie-ecn.pl
tips
& curiosities ACADEMY
Useful tips and tricks for beginner technical divers Text WOJCIECH A. FILIP Doing one course a year is already a lot. In the meantime, join
Wait... I am a recreational diver, what now? Is this article not for me ?
I
ing events. Listen, watch and ask – learn how to dive from divers! Avoid instructors that claim they don’t have any time to dive because they provide frequent training. Don’t know where to look for them? Ask in Ghost Diving or
t is definitely for you. Only a small part of diving knowledge
Ghost Diving Poland (if you are in Poland).
and experience come from participation in courses. What
Attend a training for Ghost Diving groups that dynamically
builds your confidence and ensures safety underwater is
protect underwater life.
arduous training and participation in interesting dives that let
Check what skills you should improve and practice them at
you verify and use your skills.
every available opportunity
Photo Fabrizio Tosoni
64
a group of more experienced divers that take part in interest-
tips & curiosities
ACADEMY
Who is a technical diver? A technical diver uses different types of equipment and gases to spend as much time as possible underwater at a specified depth and then decompress as fast as possible, while ensuring their safety.
Who is a beginner technical diver? A beginner technical diver has basic knowledge about using a complex (technical) gear configuration and starts to decompress faster* by using decompression gases without helium. Such a person usually dives at 40–60 m, using a twinset and one or two stage cylinders. Bottom time usually does not exceed 30 minutes.
Photo Mariusz Czajka
From time to time, I will write articles for Perfect Diver that
Technical divers use trimix – a mixture of oxygen, helium
will allow me to interact with my readers. I hope it will be in-
and nitrogen (three gases that gave raise to the mixture’s
teresting for you
name) – as their basic gas. Faster decompression, also
In this article, I included a number of tips for beginner tech-
called accelerated decompression, is possible due to re-
nical divers. Each tip has a number. You can write to the Perfect
placing helium in the breathing gas with a higher oxygen
Diver’s editorial team, indicating the number of the issue that
fraction.
interests you the most. The issues that garners the most votes
(More information on decompression is available in Per-
will be further described in a separate article.
fect Diver no. 5 and no. 6)
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
65
ACADEMY
All issues related to technical diving may be explained
Let’s start!
in simple terms. Complicating matters tend to make such type of
When reading individual tips, remember that they are not
diving dangerous. When asking an experiences col-
ordered by subject.
league or instructor for their help, always expect
To avoid boredom, you may read a tip and discuss it with
a logical answer that is easily comprehensible. Tech-
your team when travelling to a diving site – I highly recom-
nical diving training entails multiple repetitions of
mend it. Also ask your instructor’s opinion. Always expect a
procedures and learning diving tactics. It also in-
clear and logical answer and try to come to such conclusions
cludes the necessary theory.
on your own.
1. Position of regulators between the twinset valves
It allows for entering the water from up high with heavy gear,
Arrange first stage regulators diagonally so that they form
without the danger of hitting your head on the valves; makes
a “V”. If necessary, arrange hoses to fit this configuration. If
it possible to penetrate wrecks and caves in a vertical position
you are using a first stage regulator that allow for using the 5th
upside down; makes it easier to use a DPV; significantly im-
port – do it by inserting the inflator LP hose into the right regu-
proves position when there is a high wave on the surface and
lator and the second stage regulator LP hose into the left one.
has all the benefits listed in number 1.
Why is such a configuration better than regulators placed It will improve the position of your head, allow you to use less
3. If you have a vision impairment, do not look for a mask with corrective lenses.
gas, improve buoyancy control, improve your technique for
Buy two masks that fit your face the best (ensure perfect tight-
moving forwards and backwards, make it easier to use stage
ness with minimal buckle strain) and then take them to an
cylinders, reduce narcosis, improve spatial orientation and in-
optometrist and request that they fit in corrective lenses of an
crease safety during rescue.
appropriate size and strength.
horizontally?
Why it is better than having a mask with corrective lenses? Your mask will have the lens perfectly matched to your needs – even if you have a complex vision impairment, you can choose a mask that fits you best instead of having your choice limited to the so-called optical masks; what is more, the mask will not leak.
4. Attach the long hose snap bolt to the primary regulator right behind the metal fitting Use a 2 mm core line, soaking it in a warm water before fastening it. Remember to place the primary second stage regulator only in one of the two places: your mouth or the right d-ring. Why attaching the snap bolt this way is important? You will be able to remove the regulator from your mouth and clip it into the d-ring with the same movement, without using your other hand (grab the hose behind the can with your ring Photo Łukasz Oganowski
2. Crotch strap length
66
finger and pinky and use the rest of your fingers to operate the snap bolt); when a line is fastened when wet, it does not glide across the hose, which means that the snap bolt will always
Adjust the crotch strap so that it is as short as possible and
be right where you need it. Check whether you use one or
forms a “Y” with the waist strap instead of a “T”.
both hands to stow your primary regulator. If you need both
Why is such a configuration better than a waist strap ending
hands, it could mean that your snap bolt or right d-ring are
at your abdomen?
incorrectly placed.
tips & curiosities
ACADEMY
5. Prepare and secure a back-up mask in your right pocket.
Note!
The masks you use should be the same (do not use your old
before diving will have a small
mask as a back up). Always protect your back up mask against
impact on hydration, but will
fogging and clip it to a rubber loop in your right pocket with
only make you need to go to
a doubleender.
the toilet – you will not be able
Why is this way better than other solutions?
to hydrate before diving that way.
When you need to change your mask, you will put on a mask
One of the most common causes of DCS and subclinical DCS is the diver’s poor hydration.
Drinking a lot of water right
will be protected against fogging. Also, your right pocket will be
7. A stage cylinder harness is not meant for carrying.
easily accessible, as there is no stage cylinder above it – when
The harness is used to securely fasten a stage cyl-
you are on a DPV, it is much easier to remove your mask from
inder so that the cylinder valve knobs do not drop and pres-
this pocket, while signaling a problem with a flashlight held in
sure gauges are always visible, without the need to turn the
your left hand.
cylinder.
6. Equip you drysuit with a p-valve.
secured below the middle of the cylinder and a line threaded
If you are a woman, familiarize yourself with a She-p; men
through a rigid rubber hose. The regulator hose is stabilized
use an external catheter with glue along its entire length. The
by two rubber flat bands meant to prevent the hose from pro-
P-valve system allows you to urinate underwater. It is safe
truding. The diameter of the rubber hose to which a harness
and comfortable and has been used by men and women for
is fastened is selected based on diving conditions. The colder
many years. The part permanently attached to the drysuit is
the water, the larger the hose diameter. This hose allow you
the same for men and women. Differences lie in the parts that
to easily pull back rubber bands stabilizing the regulator, using
go on your body.
thick dry gloves.
identical to the one you are using instead of an old one and it
Why do I need a P-valve?
A stage cylinder harness includes two snap bolts, a band
The line should be soaked before a harness is put on the
One of the greatest dangers for technical divers is DCS (decom-
cylinder. When mounted in the valve seat axis, it enables you to
pression sickness) caused by dehydration. A recreational diver
always see your pressure gauge and regulator. This is because
should drink a lot of water for several days before a planned
a cylinder does not rotate axially. Stage cylinders are carried
dive. A technical diver usually drinks a lot of water the entire
by the valve.
day. Additionally, you will be able to have a cup of coffee in the
Why carrying a cylinder by its harness is not a good idea?
air-hole right before immersion, without worrying what to do
It happens that inexperienced divers use the harness to car-
when you need to pee...
ry stage cylinders, thinking that it is means as a convenient handle (it happens that a non-technical diver helps a diver to carry their gear). It causes the slack that results in the cylinder
Source www.she-p.com
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
67
ACADEMY
turning with the valve and regulator going down when clipped
Why is bungee better that the original dive computer band?
to the diver’s harness. Such a position makes it impossible
The position of your hands underwater does not always make
to quickly use the valve. When you have two stage cylinders,
it easy to monitor instruments. Find the most comfortable po-
the valve of the cylinder placed closer to you body is hard
sition and look at your right hand, where a computer should
to access. When diving in wrecks or caves, this may result in
be placed, and a left one, where you will place the compass.
a guideline getting broken, sand getting in your second stage
Try not to raise/turn your arms to read the instrument and
regulator or the regulator becoming damaged. Additionally,
instead, move the instruments so that you may always see the
monitoring a pressure gauge will require rotating the cylinder
readings. Arranging your instruments quickly and in a con-
each time. A loose harness caused by carrying the stage cyl-
venient way is difficult, when they are fastened by a rubber
inder incorrectly may pose a danger to divers using DPVs – it
band. Bungee mounts allow you to fasten your computer
is easy to overlook a regulator hanging below a diver. When
in any place and move it to a different place quickly and,
a cylinder is correctly positioned, such a regulator may be
importantly, at any time during your dive, without paying it
constantly monitored.
much attention.
8. Position the separator knob towards the rear (in the opposite direction that the regulators are facing)
an unresponsive diver from water. Holding a diver from be-
Earlier I recommended to position first stage regulators to
a bungee mount you will do it almost instinctively. With a su-
form a “V”. Read and try to understand the idea behind such
perband you will need “a little” more time.
a configuration. If the separator knob is positioned towards
If you are unsure about such a solution, practice pulling hind, you hold his regulator in his mouth with your right hand and move your computer upwards towards your elbow. With
your head, it will result in the consequences described in
10. How large should my argon cylinder be?
item 1. Position them in the opposite direction than your head,
As small as possible – e.g. 0.85 L. Such a cylinder is enough for
preferably at an angle of 30–45 degrees.
diving at 90–120 m.
Why is it preferable to having the knob positioned towards
Why the cylinder should be this small? Isn’t it better to use
your head?
a 4 L cylinder?
Breathing control is crucial in diving. When you head is blocked
I used a 0.85 L cylinder for diving the HMHS Britannic wreck at
in a slightly downward position, it significantly limits your ac-
120 m. Larger cylinder volumes are needed for dives requiring
tions. Additionally, when you want to operate a valve arranged
you to change the depth several times, which mean that you
this way, you need to lower your head and try to fit your hand
inflate you suit several times as well. It typically happens in
with a glove ring between your head and the regulators. If
certain caves. In open water, we strive to keep our diving pro-
a valve is facing the other way, you do not have to look for it:
file U-shaped. That means that we descend, spend time at the
lower your head slightly, without losing eye contact with your
bottom and ascend. In such a case, gas from an argon cylinder
team. Put your forearm behind your head, without search-
is only used during the descent phase.
ing for a valve. Raise your head high and breathe normally,
It is worth remembering that additional weight and
pressing your forearm with your head. Close your hand – it
volume make your configuration less comfortable and in-
will clench around a valve
creases its weight unnecessarily. Additionally, if you plan to penetrate wrecks, a large argon cylinder does not work in
Note!
your favor.
In 2x15, 2x18 and 2x20 liter twin sets, arranging the knob to face your head does not change its position due to the
Note!
larger cylinder diameter. In such sets, the separator knob
In diving, and especially technical diving, a suit is not used
should be positioned towards your head.
as the primary source of buoyancy. The device used to con-
9. Change the computer and compass mounting kits to bungee mounts
cylinder size are related to the fact that you control your buoyancy with a drysuit, take the opportunity to practice
Use a dedicated casing, use the openings in your casing or
another method – the faster you do it, the better your
come up with your own way. Change all rubber bands to dou-
results will be
ble bungee mounts.
68
trol buoyancy is your wing. If your doubts about the argon
tips & curiosities
ACADEMY
Photo Mariusz Czajka
Technical diving is a great way to see more underwater world.
If any of the issues I mentioned interested you or raised your doubts – write to Perfect Diver and indicate which issue
It requires specific training and preparation. It provides
from today’s article you would like to read more about.
you with an opportunity to see what few can see. You learn
...perhaps you do not want to wait for a next issue of the mag-
techniques and use equipment in a maximally informed
azine?
way. Such an approach allows you to spend time underwater safely.
If so, you’re welcome to visit the Tecline Academy – set up a meeting for yourself and your team WAF
https://teclinediving.eu/tecline-academy/#/
PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021
69
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A
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