diving
No. 20 2(20)/2022
freediving
passion
knowledge
GALAPAGOS
The republic of animals
MARCH/APRIL
Price 12,50 € Tax included
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the foreword
WOJCIECH ZGOŁA
Editor-in-Chief
E
arth – land and water, freedom and life are gifts that should never be destroyed. Unfortunately, there is an ongoing war in Europe. Our aspiration, as nations and individuals, should be peace. Unquestionably.
Since we started publishing our magazine, we have paid great attention to the planet and ecology. We show its natural beauty, and each of you can participate in this. You can plan your own escapade or embark on an e-trip with us.
Before you is the 20th issue of our magazine. I would like to thank the authors of texts and photographs for their engagement and invite you to a real underwater feast. We open with a colourful and interesting text by Ania Sołoducha about the Galapagos. In the last issue she introduced us to the climate of Ecuador, now she moves on to underwater details, and we all know that everyone would like to visit the Galapagos in person. Anyway, even without looking inside – the cover alone, designed by Łukasz Metrycki – arouses curiosity. Dragons really do exist, and the ones on the cover can swim and dive. Next, we have the picturesque story of a safari through the Red Sea in Egypt. It is about space, the sea and... See for yourself what Sylwia Kosmalska-Juriewicz has written this time. This issue introduces new authors: Krzysztof Brudkowski describing the Dominican Republic, Joanna Wyrebek (with her colleagues) with the text The Cavettes, Aleksandra Łysek – in relation to the recent text by Wojtek A. Filip on women. There is something for wreck enthusiasts. Kurt Storms talks about the largest wreck in European waters, in Arenzano, Italy. A very interesting and substantive article by Jakub Banasiak about orcas can also be found in this issue, as well as something about long-tailed ducks, turtles, and the valves that every diver must use. Don't forget to check the ads! The list of companies where you can get 15% discount with the code: perfectdiver has been extended! Among them is FOFU – and more about it is in our conversation with Marek Kucharz. You are cordially invited!
PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
3
table of contents
22
33
TRAVELS 12 Galapagos.The republic of animals 22 Far south 28 Is it worth diving in the Caribbean Sea?
PLANET EARTH 33 Green and hawksbill. Endangered species of turtles of the Red Sea
36 Killer whales. Killers, victims, motives and mysteries 60 Long-tailed ducks. Cold-loving divers
OUR CONVERSATION 44 For Ocean From Us. About eco glasses talks Marek Kucharz
4
50 UNDERWATER INSPIRATIONS 49 ”Reef” on canvas
UNDER THE CEILING 50 The Cavettes
KNOWLEDGE 62 A woman’s view on diving
Publisher PERFECT DIVER WOJCIECH ZGOŁA
WRECKS
ul. Folwarczna 37, 62-081 Przeźmierowo redakcja@perfectdiver.com
54 Trip Report. Amoco Milford Haven Wreck,
ISSN 2545-3319
Arenzano, Italy
editor in chief
Wojciech Zgoła
underwater archaeology
Mateusz Popek
photographer
Karolina Sztaba
advertisement
Hubert Reiss
marketing
&
english language translators
Agnieszka Gumiela-Pająkowska Arleta Kaźmierczak Reddo Translations Sp. z o.o. Piotr Witek
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) Noto Serif, Noto Sans (Google)
54
printing
Wieland Drukarnia Cyfrowa, Poznań, www.wieland.com.pl
distribution
dive centers, online store
preorder@perfectdiver.com
TIPS & CURIOSITIES 66 Scuba cylinder valves: introduction and their impact on a diver’s actions
cover photo
Łukasz Metrycki place
Galapagos model
Marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus)
www.perfectdiver.com
66
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. 2(20)/2022
5
editorial team
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
KAROLA TAKES PHOTOS
”My passion, work and life are under water.” He has been diving since 2009.
Karolina Sztaba, and professionally Karola Takes Photos, is a photographer
Since 2008, he's walking in caves. Underwater archeologist by education.
by education and passion. She is currently working at the Trawangan Dive
He participated in numerous projects in Poland and abroad. He has been
Center on a tiny island in Indonesia – Gili Trawangan, where she moved to
engaged in professional diving since 2011. In 2013 he obtained the quali-
live four years ago. She photographs above and below the water. In addition,
fications of a 2nd class diver. Has experience in underwater work both at
she creates photographic projects against littering the oceans and polluting
sea and inland. Since 2013 he has been diving in caves, especially in the
our planet with plastic ("Trapped", "Trashion"). She cooperates with NGO or-
mountains, and since 2014 he is a diving instructor CMAS M1. In June 2020,
ganizations dealing with environmental protection and actively participates
he obtained a doctoral degree in underwater archeology.
in pro-ecological actions (coral protection, coral planting, cleaning the world, protection of endangered species). She is also the official photographer of Ocean Mimic – a brand that creates swimwear and surfwear from rubbish collected on the beaches of Bali. She cooperated with many brands of diving equipment for which she created advertising campaigns. In 2019, she became the ambassador of the Polish company Tecline. She has been a technical diver for two years.
constant cooperation
WOJCIECH A. FILIP
ANNA SOŁODUCHA
LAURA KAZIMIERSKA
Has more than 8000 dives on his account. He
A graduate of Geography faculty at the University
Laura Kazimierska is currently working as PADI
has been diving for over 30 years, including over
of Wrocław and an incurable optimist… with a per-
Course Director at TrawanganDive Center on the
20 years as a technical diver. He is a professional
manent smile on her lips! It was probably Destiny
Indonesian island of Gili Trawangan. Founder of
with great theoretical and practical knowledge. He
that led her to Activtour… and she's been here
the Divemastergilis portal.
is an instructor of many federations: GUE Instruc-
on permanent basis. She passionately fulfils the
www.divemastergilis.com @divemastergilis
tor Mentor, CMAS**, IANTD nTMX, IDCS PADI, EFR,
dreams of many, organizing diving trips around the
For over 7 years she has lived and discovered the
TMX Gas Blender. He participated in many diving
world, and she has already been diving for more
underwater world of Indonesia. She is not only an
projects and conferences as a leader, explorer,
than half of her life. Each year she explores a dif-
avid technical diver, but also the face of the Planet
originator or lecturer. These included the Britan-
ferent ‘piece of the ocean’, pinning another pin to
Heroes platform and the ambassador of the Ocean
nic Expedition 2016, Morpheus Cave Scientific
her diving world map. In winter she changes fins
Mimic brand. She actively contributes to the pro-
Project on Croatia caves, GROM Expedition in
into her beloved skis and gets away into the Alps.
motion of the protection of corals and the natural
Narvik, Tuna Mine Deep Dive, Glavas Cave in Croa-
A recipe for life? ”The only a dead trunk flows with
environment of fish and marine animals by taking
tia, NOA-MARINE. Professionally, he is a technical
the current – the explorer's canoe flows up the river!”
part in scientific projects, campaigns against ocean
director at TecLine in Scubatech, and a director of
anna@activtour.pl
littering and cooperating with NGOs in Indonesia.
training at TecLine Academy.
activtour.pl; travel.activtour.pl; 2bieguny.com
@laura_kazi
JAKUB DEGEE
MICHAL ČERNÝ
AGATA TUROWICZ-CYBULA
Polish photographer, winner of awards and dis-
"Wet photos" – He has photographed since he
Since I was a child, I had dreamed of becoming
tinctions in world underwater photography com-
remembers. After several years of experience as
a marine biologist and I managed to fulfill that
petitions, has already dived all over the world: with
a diver, he wanted to keep memories of underwa-
dream. I did a degree in oceanography, where
sharks and whales in South Africa, with orcs be-
ter dives. He bought his first compact camera with
I recently started my doctoral studies. My diving
hind the Arctic Circle, on Galapagos with hundreds
an underwater housing. Over time, however, the
adventure began when I was 12 years old. I love
of hammerhead sharks and humpback whales in
desire to have the best photo began to dominate,
observing the underwater life up close and I try to
the Tonga Islands. He participates in specialist
which was not quite possible with the compact
show other divers how fascinating the underwa-
photographic workshops. He has been diving for
he used. That's why he switched to the Olympus
ter, Baltic creatures are.
27 years, he started at the age of 12 – as soon as
PEN E-PL 5 reflex camera, which allows the use of
it was formally possible. He was the first in the
several different lenses. He uses a combination
world to use the Hasselblad X1d-50c camera for
of underwater flashes and lights. He focuses on
underwater macro photography. Recently, in the
wildlife photography, not arrangement. He photo-
remote Chincorro archipelago on the border be-
graphs in fresh domestic waters as well as in the
tween Mexico and Belize, he did it again, taking
seas and oceans of the world.
a successful attempt to photograph the eye of
He has already won numerous awards at Czech
a crocodile with a macro lens with an additional
and foreign photography competitions. More
magnifying lens, which is the world's largest photo
photos can be found on his website, where you
of the crocodile's eye living in the wild (in terms of
can also buy them not only as photos, but also as
pixel count, print size, quality).
photos printed on canvas or on another medium. www.mokrefotky.cz www.facebook.com/MichalCernyPhotography www.instagram.com/michalcerny_photography/
constant cooperation
WOJCIECH JAROSZ
AGNIESZKA KALSKA
BARTOSZ PSZCZÓŁKOWSKI
A graduate of two Poznan universities, the Acad-
”I can't imagine living without water, where in a free
That's my name and I come from Poznań. I have
emy of Physical Education (coaching specializa-
body I experience freedom of the spirit.”
been associated with water practically from birth
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),
and with diving since I learned to walk. My grandfather instilled my passion for the underwater world, a CMAS*** instructor taking me to the lakes at any free time. I obtained my first qualifications in 1996. A year later I went to Croatia and literally went crazy at the sight of blue wa-
ing research, pushing laboriously in the right di-
• record holder and Polish champion, member
ter, octopus and colorful fish;) I bought my first
rection of the stroller called science. In his free
of the national team in freediving 2013–2019,
underwater camera – Olympus 5060 and started
time he spends his time actively – his main pas-
• winner of the World Championships in freed-
the adventure with underwater photography. I ac-
sions are sailing (sea helmsman), skiing (downhill
iving 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2018,
quired my diving experience in the Canary Islands,
skiing instructor), riding a motorcycle, recreational
• multimedalist of the Polish Championships
Sardinia, Norway, Maldives and in Polish lakes.
diving and many other activities, as well as pho-
and a member of the national team in swim-
I am currently a Padi and ESA instructor, I train
tography, mainly nature.
ming in the years 1998–2003,
diving enthusiasts in Europe and pass my passion
• passionate about freediving and swimming.
on to others. I invite all lovers of the underwater world and photography to Beediver (FB) – see you soon.
SYLWIA KOSMALSKA-JURIEWICZ
IRENA KOSOWSKA
A traveller and a photographer of wild nature.
Regional Manager Divers Alert Network Polska,
A graduate of journalism and a lover of good liter-
diving and first aid instructor, technical diver and
ature. She lives in harmony with nature, promotes
cave diver. In love with all flooded, dark, cold,
a healthy lifestyle: she is a yogini and a vegetarian.
tight places and invariably from the beginning
Also engaged in ecological projects. Sharks and
of the diving route – in the Baltic. Implementing
their protection are especially close to her heart.
the DAN mission, he conducts a series of lectures
She writes about the subject in numerous articles
”Dive safely” and Diving Safety Laboratory, so field
and on her blog www.divingandtravel.pl. She be-
research of divers for scientific purposes.
gan her adventure with diving fifteen years ago by total coincidence. Today she is a Divemaster, she visited over 60 countries and dived on 5 continents. She invites us for a joint journey with the travel agency www.dive-away.pl, of which she is a co-founder.
our authors
JAKUB BANASIAK
KLAUDYNA BRZOSTOWSKA
KURT STORMS
JOANNA WYREBEK
Diver from 2008. Passionate of the
PADI diving instructor and videog-
Belgium Military, underwater cave
Joanna (Jojo) got into diving later in
Red Sea and pelagic ocean preda-
rapher. She spends most of his
explorer and active technical/ cave/
life (in 2014) but quickly fell in love
tors. Devoted to the idea of protect-
time in the water documenting
rebreather diving instructor for
and decided to share that passion
ing dolphins, sharks and whales. He
a fascinating underwater world.
IANTD. He started his diving ca-
with others by becoming an instruc-
dives mainly where you can meet
She graduated from the Academy
reer in Egypt on vacation, and his
tor a couple of years later...
these animals and monitor the lev-
of Fine Arts in the field of Fashion
passion continues. Kurt is also the
...more
el of their well-being. Member of
Design in Łódź and Film studies at
founder and CEO of Descent Techni-
page 50.
Dolphinaria-Free Europe Coalition,
the Adam Mickiewicz University in
cal Diving.
volunteer at Tethys Research Insti-
Poznań, trained as a tailor, and with
He dives on several CCRs such as
tute and Cetacean Research & Rescue
a love of nature and a large dose of
AP, SF2, Divesoft Liberty SM. Kurt is
Unit, associate of Marine Connection.
adrenaline. She loves everything
involved in the creation of the docu-
For 10 years he has been involved
related to water. Her diving adven-
ment about the new salt mine in Bel-
in research on wild dolphin popu-
ture began with a backpacking trip
gium (Laplet). This project was fea-
lations and audits dolphinariums.
in 2016. During her stay in Thailand
tured in the news on Nationale TV.
Together with the team ”NO! For
she dived for the first time and
Privately, Kurt's true passion is
the Dolphinarium” he prevents dol-
from then on she got hooked on at
deep cave diving. His wife (Caroline)
phins from captivity and promotes
this sport. Spending the last years
shares her husband's passions and
knowledge about dolphin therapy
and most of her days under water,
also dives in caves. In his free time,
unsaid or concealed by centers
teaching and showing the beauty of
he visits Belgian slate mines, and
which make money on this form of
the underwater world in Asia, she
when he is not exploring, he takes
animal therapy.
believes that diving means unity –
his camera to document the dives.
in
article
The
Cavettes,
unity with own mind, nature and unusual creatures. @waterographyk
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DIVING CENTER DIVING SCHOOL
our authors
MICHAŁ ANTONIUK
KRZYSZTOF BRUDKOWSKI
ALEKSANDRA ŁYSEK
"Sitting at home is the greatest punishment" is my
A legal advisor by profession, trying to help, not
I started diving when I was 11 years old and knew
motto.
win at all costs. A fan of warm climates and blue
immediately that this is what I want to do with
I am an enthusiast of all kinds of activities: diving,
water. He started diving in 2018 as a develop-
my life. I managed to combine business with
motorcycling, cycling, climbing, etc. I have been
ment of his favorite snorkeling. He now plans
pleasure and for five years I have been work-
diving with aqualung for 10 years, 3 of which as
almost every trip to get his fins wet somewhere.
ing in the Nurkersi diving center and the shop
a dive instructor. Overhead environments have
His teenage son Damian is his partner in diving.
szpejownia.com, and recently I am a divemaster.
been my main travel destinations for a long time.
Recently, he has been watching the underwater
On weekends, I change my office work to under-
I fulfill my little dream of being a camera reporter
world through the camera's viewfinder, wanting
water work – swimming with new divers, shows
in an underwater housing looking for thrills and
to preserve fleeting memories. He has reached
them what the underwater world looks like out-
spectacular landscapes. Black drysuit makes me
the Deep Diver level in diving and it probably will
side the course. It is with great pleasure that
look like a very serious technical diver, but those
not end there.
I share my experience, insights and comments
cylinders and colorful bungie rubber inserts
with them. I am also a Tecline regulator service
quickly dispel that illusion ;)
technician and I am an authorized equipment advisor. On a daily basis, I am studying management in the second year.
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No. 2(20)/2022
11
travels
Galapagos THE REPUBLIC OF ANIMALS Text ANNA SOŁODUCHA Land photos JAROSŁAW GOŁEMBIEWSKI Underwater photos ŁUKASZ METRYCKI
Man! Dive under the water. If the beauty you see does not thrill you – then you will see nothing more interesting in your life.
12
travels
TONS OF SHARKS. HAMMERHEAD SHARKS. Not a few, or a dozen, to be admired for a few minutes, usually at great depth. This was the "water march" of the rulers of this land, the republic of animals. Several dozens of them were swimming over our heads for 20–30 minutes, in fact, until we had to continue diving and leave this spectacle. It was pure magic, a phenomenon. 2-3-meter-long hammerheads were swimming endlessly in front of us and I...? I felt accomplished. 1000 km from the Ecuadorian mainland, 1600 km from Panama and 960 km from Cocos Island lie the Enchanted Islands.
S
In the 16th century, a fleeing ship from Peru under the comit down comfortably. Place your hands between the
mand of Diego de Rivadeneira was carried away by currents
stones or sit on the edge of the rocks as if you were
near the equator. The sailors could see the islands, but due
going to fish. Alternating cold and warm currents caress
to the strong current and wind, they could not approach any
your face, the only part of your body exposed to the "precious
of them. This phenomenon made the islands seem to move
Pacific". Water temperature... nobody said it would be easy.
away, as if they were "enchanted". Yes, these were the Gala-
The visibility – well, it has been better. You sit still, contemplat-
pagos Islands...
ing. You enjoy the silence. You glance at your dive partners
What we see is just the tip of a gigantic shield volcano
playfully attached to the rocks, then at the computer and the
rising 10,000 meters from the ocean floor, formed solely of
manometer. Theoretically, you know what to expect. But in
basalt. About 5 million years ago, a series of volcanic erup-
practice, as we (divers) know, things can be different. And
tions created a chain of islands. The islands are located on
then happens what you are waiting for, what I was waiting for
so-called hotspots, from which magma flows to form under-
10 years. What I read, wrote, told while organizing diving trips.
water volcanoes that grow larger with each eruption. From
Pictures that I knew by heart from various websites. What
the merging of their foothills, an underwater platform was
was my dream, so distant and for many years – unattainable.
formed – the Galapagos Platform. Some volcanoes have ris-
What 20 years ago, completing my first OWD course – I did
en out of the water to form islands and islets, and the most
not even dream about.
important islands in the archipelago include Isabela (which
PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
13
travels
14
is an exception because it is formed by 6 volcanoes!), San
are not afraid of humans, even though they have made their
Cristobal, Fenrnandina, Santa Cruz, Floreana, San Salvador,
presence felt during their relatively short stay on the islands.
13 medium-sized islands and 215 small islands. The uplifting
Sea lions and Galápagos fur seals were killed for their furs,
process constantly continues due to the Nazca Plate sliding
giant turtles that can live for months without food and drink
under the South American and Cocos Plates. The archipela-
were sent as food to whalers and pirates, and gentle iguanas
go lies at their junction – the node of the triple Galapagos.
were hunted with sticks. The days of killing have thankfully
Interestingly – as a result of tectonic movements, the islands
passed into history. Strict restrictions to ensure that nothing
are moving in a north-easterly direction at the rate of 7 cm
that could disrupt the delicate balance enters the islands be-
per year! The latest eruptions took place in 2018 – the Sierra
gin at the airports on San Cristobal Island and Baltra Island.
Negra volcano on Isabela (this is one of the widest craters
So, to get to this unique place – we must first get to Ecuador,
on Earth, 10 km in diameter!), and in 2021 – on Wolf Island,
to the city of Quito (the capital) or to Guayaquil. If we are
which is also the highest peak of the Galapagos (1707 m).
not planning to stay in Ecuador longer than one day, I rec-
Galapagos is a special place. 97% of the archipelago is cov-
ommend a flight to Guayaquil. Quito is located at an altitude
ered by the National Park status (since 1959) and in 1978, the
of 2,800 m, which unfortunately causes altitude sickness in
islands were entered into the UNESCO list. In 2007, the archi-
most travellers. If we combine this with diving – we may not
pelago was placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger,
feel very comfortable on our dream trip. If, however, we plan
but the immense work that has been put into conservation
to visit the land part of Ecuador – you can safely choose the
programs is still having the desired effect. What immediately
capital as a stop on the trip, before departing for the Galapa-
draws your attention upon arrival is the fact that the animals
gos. Before the flight, however, travellers must fill out a dec-
travels
laration with information on how much time they will spend in the Galapagos and whether they have plants, animals, or tourist equipment in their luggage. The contents of suitcases are very carefully checked – after all, in the sleeping bag or in the soles of trekking boots there may be seeds of invasive plants. It is mandatory to pay the entry fee to the Galapagos National Park in the amount of 100 USD/person and purchase a tourist card. The uniqueness of this place manifests itself from the moment of arrival. The airport on Baltra Island, which is separated from Santa Cruz Island by the Itabaca Channel – was the first airport in the world to be certified as having zero CO2 emissions! It is the first of its kind to be fully powered by renewable energy. The airport, located on a small, uninhabited island, gets its energy from solar panels, which cover 35% of its energy needs. The remaining 65% is provided by wind turbines. Recycled materials, such as steel pipes from the oil industry, were used to build the facility. Because of the low rainfall in Baltra, the water used at the airport comes from a natural desalination process carried out by plants, which is handled by a unit called Ecogal. The airport also uses natural lighting and underground air ducts to provide air conditioning for the premises. The island itself (Baltra) is formed by the uplift of undersea lava flows. It is dry, overgrown by the saltbush, prickly pear, and the famous Palo Santo trees. It is also interesting to note that during World War II, a U.S. Air Force base was established there to protect the Panama Canal. After the end of World War II, the base was handed over to the Ecuadorians who dismantled much of the buildings, although the outlines of their foundations are still visible from the air. Why is it that in the Galapagos, no one pays attention to wild animals in the urban centres? The answer is simple. There are a lot more of them in the
PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
15
travels The islands are at the intersection of 7 major ocean currents which makes the local marine life is unique.
16
water! The Galapagos is still one of the most active volcanic
for the faint-hearted; the water can be icy, is rarely calm, and
regions in the world, which along with its isolated location
horizontal and vertical currents – ascending or descending
creates a unique marine fauna environment. The islands are
– happen basically on every dive. For this reason, each diver
at the intersection of 7 major ocean currents which makes
is given a GPS locator (Nautilus Marine Rescue GPS) for the
the local marine life is unique. The biggest influence on the
duration of the diving safari which, after an activation proce-
ecosystem is the Equatorial Current (Cromwell) which brings
dure, emits a signal that is received at a distance of 55 km by
cool water masses from the west, the warm Panama Current
all boats using the automatic identification system (AIS). There
bathes the archipelago from the northeast and the cool Peru
are significant climatic changes between summer and winter.
Current (Humboldt) brings "Garúa" or cold air masses, forming
The warmest months are from December to May, when the
a cloud cap over the islands. Each attracts different species,
weather can be considered subtropical, or even tropical in
creating a rare mix of tropical, subtropical, and temperate ma-
the north. From June to December is the cold season, during
rine life. Diving in the Galapagos is not for everyone. Water
which you can witness unusual anomalies such as huge clouds
in this place can be turbid, and currents very strong. Diving
of fog around Roca Roddonda. All of this is mixed together
here does not resemble diving in tropical waters in a variety of
by global climate change, the unpredictable effects of chang-
the most popular choice for divers. Drift diving in the depths
ing ocean currents and the fact that each island has its own
is often prohibited. Although it seems indisputable to pre-
microclimate. What attracts divers from around the world,
pare yourself reef hooks – diving guides at the first briefing
however, is the possibility (and actually a guarantee!) to see
strongly advise against taking them underwater. Here we will
large representatives of marine species: hammerhead sharks,
not find the edge of the reef where we can hang on the hook
Galapagos sharks, silky sharks, barracudas, manta rays, igua-
and levitate in the water to watch the underwater spectacle.
nas, or sea lions! The best time to see the largest animals is
Besides, being attached to a hook a few meters above the
in winter – when they are attracted to cooler waters. Whale
bottom – sharks simply won't come up to us. This is not a dive
sharks begin to appear in late May when the water tempera-
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ture drops to about 15°C. When the temperature warms up
body temperature in a way that allows them to warm up even
to 27°C – we have a chance to meet manta rays. However, no
seven times faster than they cool down. So, they swim up and
matter what time of year you arrive in the Galapagos, thermo-
down several times a day, spend a while at the surface, and
clines are a serious problem. One moment you’re swimming
then return to the depths to continue a long hunt. The sec-
in 25°C, and the next second it drops to... 12 degrees! I am
ond reason for staying close to the water surface is to be able
not joking ;) It also has a terrible effect on visibility, so it's hard
to get rid of parasites. The body of a sunfish is not covered
to predict what time is the best to go. However, it is commonly
with scales, but with a thick and flexible skin, which is why
believed that the best time is when the seasons change, so
it is so often attacked by parasites, even up to 40 different
November-December, and April-June.
kinds. Some species of birds, including albatrosses, have been observed to peck and then eat parasites from their skin, thus
LET'S DIVE!
cleaning it. The cleansing process takes place when the sunfish
The dive safari gives you the opportunity to explore the dive
"lays down" on the surface of the water. It is also commonly
sites located at the different islands of the archipelago. We dive
said that these strange fish swim weakly and slowly, but this
off the island of Santa Cruz, at the site of Punta Carrión. The
is not true – they move well ;) Very important in the Galapagos
first impression – cold! However, after a while I stop thinking
(and not only) is not to swim up to the animals, and even more
about it completely, because my eyes see mola mola, which in
so to the mola mola. The guides explain that if we want to be
Latin means "millstone" and is supposed to describe its shape.
close to them – we should not swim or move – they will come
It is the largest bony fish in the world! This several-metre-long
to us. And this is exactly what happened Yet how quick-
fish weighs up to two tonnes. Its brain is the size of a pea-
ly we found an exception to the rule... Sea lions (Galápagos
nut. From the depth of up to 200 m, where the temperature
sea lions) are another species we had the opportunity to see
falls below 12°C, the sunfish come to the water surface sever-
in this unique place. These amazing acrobats even demand
al times a day. This is because the sunfish can regulate their
to be played with – and here, contrary to everything we had
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18
previously stated – we have to be active, play with them and
in such a way that entering the water on its western shore is
show interest ;) Galápagos sea lions are an endemic species.
like stepping into an ice bath. The cold Cromwell Current flows
They delight in performing various acrobatic feats, which are
around it from the west, striking the islands of Isabella and
an incredible attraction for divers. Their flexible body allows
Fernandina before heading north to Cape Marshall and Roca
them to turn, twist and dodge quickly. When the sea lions have
Rodonda. Combined with the fact that the volcanoes in this
finished playing, they look away from the diver as if waiting for
region are still active, this creates another mini ecosystem, as
applause, or they start imitating him by blowing bubbles. They
we find when diving off both of the above islands. Squeezed
also like to play with various marine flora and fauna, such as
between rocks, boulders, or chasms we find moray eels – in
starfish or red-lipped batfish (but more on that later), they may
numbers so huge that we meet several of them on basically
even be tempted by a diver's fin! However, be wary of male sea
every dive. This is the first dive site where within a week I saw
lions protecting their territory and harem. The female sea lions
an incredible number of different species of moray eels, of-
that we met many times on the dives, apart from playing with
ten in shimmering yellow and gold colours, such as palenose
us – also played with each other. These were such incredibly
moray, jewel moray, whitemouth moray, yellow-edged mo-
close and charming encounters that will remain in our mem-
ray, mosaic moray or dark-skinned species such as panamic
ories for a long time.
green moray, fine-spotted moray, and hourglass moray. They
Isabela, the largest island in the seahorse-shaped archipel-
are 2–3 m long and hide only their heads in the rocks, while
ago, forms a barrier between the Pacific Ocean and the other
the rest of their body remains in plain sight. Do they think we
Galapagos islands. Through its location, it divides the currents
cannot see them? ;)
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The Galapagos is a Mecca for endemic species. During one dive, you can see several species of marine fauna which you have never seen before in your life.
The Galapagos is a Mecca for endemic species. During one dive, you can see several species of marine fauna which you have never seen before in your life. A perfect example is the Galapagos bullhead shark, also known as the Peruvian horn shark. The large head, upturned snout and dark spots on the grey-brown skin give this fish the appearance of a bizarre, skinny hybrid of a leopard and a pig ;) Relatively large pectoral fins add to its distinctive appearance and allow this shark to... crawl on the ocean floor!!! All these attributes may make it seem dangerous, but beware – its maximum body length is only 105 cm! It is small and completely harmless. The Galapagos bullhead shark has two types of teeth. The small front teeth are hooked for grabbing prey such as crabs, while the side teeth are flat, ideal for crushing and grinding shells. The two small dorsal fins have a sharp spine that helps to deter predators. However, this does not prevent the species from often being eaten by the much larger, aggressive tiger shark.
to its pouted, almost fluorescent red lips and bulging eyes.
This shark resides on sandy bottoms, near rocks – and that's
This animal is additionally equipped with a special lure for bait
where we encountered it!
placed in front of its eyes. It grows out of the dorsal fin and re-
The strangest creature I encountered in the Galapagos was
leases special chemicals. Instead of swimming, this fish usually
a fish called red-lipped batfish. This creature lives from a few
moves awkwardly along the seabed using its fins, which have
metres to 76 metres deep, reaches a maximum length of about
special tabs and look just like limbs. Although this fish looks
25 cm and can be found in the waters around the Galapagos
downright ghastly, it poses no danger to humans. In addition,
Islands and in Peru. The red-lipped batfish looks like an elderly
various other species of fish are very common here – variously
lady, an aristocrat, or an unfulfilled actress who has had her
coloured frogfish, pufferfish, scorpionfish, or stingrays such as
five minutes but is still trying to attract attention by wearing
the Peruvian torpedo ray. The Galapagos can surprise you. Ev-
strong make-up. The second association is as if she just drank
ery dive, of which there were four in one day, we encountered
the blood of her victim and did not wipe her mouth ;) All thanks
a whole lot of fantastic creatures. The kinds we really dreamed
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of seeing. During one of the dives, just after playing with the sea lions, we saw a "projectile" falling into the water. This projectile was a cormorant. A flightless cormorant, which has completely lost the ability to fly, is very clumsy on land, but is a great swimmer! There are only 800 pairs in the world, so if you see one, you are very lucky! The bird drops into the water like a stone, chases its prey and rushes with it to the surface to satisfy its hunger on land. The sight was so surreal that we felt like we were on a film set. Reptiles occupy one of the most important places in the underwater world of the Galapagos. The most famous endemic species is the marine iguana studied by the renowned Charles Darwin. It is the only lizard in the world with the unique ability to feed in the sea – it feeds on food found in the seabed.
20
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If you're lucky, you can see these exotic creatures inhabiting the volcanic rocky coastline, basking in the sun near the islands of Punta Espinosa or Fernandina during the warm afternoon hours. The most fun, however, is seeing them dive and eat the algae that grows on the underwater rocks. Dives with iguanas are very shallow – the sun's rays cut through the surface of the water beautifully illuminating the marine iguanas. The surface waves and currents don't make it easy for us to observe these unusual animals, but the whole phenomenon is so mesmerising that we stay with them for a whole hour. Interestingly, they have the ability to slow their heart rate and stay underwater for about 60 minutes! The reptiles are often compared to dragons, when they expel clouds of steam from their nostrils, getting rid of excess salt, which looks really threatening... Well – the iguana, after all, is the royal lady of this phenomenal land... We spent our days mostly underwater, as it happens during a diving safari. However, one afternoon we went on an excursion, conquering Bartolomé Hill. The volcanic black sand island is a great stop on the journey between the central and western islands of the Archipelago and what cannot yet be seen on the horizon. On the island, we were greeted by sea lions lounging in the sun, completely uninterested in the arriving guests. We climbed up the path prepared for tourists. The view we saw is probably the most characteristic landscape of the Galapagos, often seen on the Internet, or decorating the illustrations of tourist guidebooks. In a word – breathtaking. An expedition to the Galapagos is a journey off the beaten track, to places where nature takes the spotlight. Under water we have already seen a whole range of creatures unique to the world. However, what I was looking forward to the most in the world was somewhere far away, where sight does not reach. Somewhere in the distance, two islands were waiting for us, without which diving in Galapagos would not make sense – Wolf and Darwin... To be continued…
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Far south Text SYLWIA KOSMALSKA-JURIEWICZ
22
Photos ADRIAN JURIEWICZ
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Every place you visit becomes, in a sense, a part of you, an important part of your extraordinary story. You won't know what it is really like on a dive safari until you stand on the boat yourself and go on a journey in unknown waters...
A
delicate light penetrates the blind and falls with all its power through a rectangular window into the cabin number 5. I watch through my sleepy, slightly tilted
eyelids, as the rays of the morning sun dance on my sheets. Yesterday night late we arrived at the Port of Ghalib in Mars Alam in the south-eastern part of Egypt, from where today after breakfast we set sail on a week-long dive safari on the Red Sea. We took the ST. JOHN’S ROUTE, which offers a unique variety, beautiful caves, phenomenal canyons, a rich coral reef. We sail to the far south, which is ideal in terms of difficulty for both advanced divers and those who are just starting their adventure with diving. The Grand Sea Serpent is a 45 meters long, new and very comfortable boat that a few months ago set sail on her first voyage.
We do the first two dives in the vicinity of Mars Alam, ex-
I hear the sound of a bell, which shyly comes from the
actly 17 km from the shores of SHAAB MARS ALAM (here we
upper deck, and after a while a dynamic knock at the cabin
do a check dive) and SHAAB SHARM, these two locations teem
door. It is a message from the crew that there is half an hour
with marine life, and a beautiful coral reef, rising straight from
left till the morning, organisational briefing. Such wake-up
the sandy bottom. After jumping into the water, I immediately
calls will be repeated every day during the whole cruise. I take
thanked inwardly my friend who had advised me to take a dry
a quick shower with a view of the sea and after a while I am
suit with me. Both during the whole dive and after leaving the
ready to happily enter the last day of the old year. After break-
water, I feel thermal comfort, in contrast to some people who
fast, we screw together the diving equipment, choose ballast
dive in 5 mm foams and cool down significantly in the water.
and hang foams and dry suits on specially designed hangers.
After finishing the second dive, the dining room on the deck
Moments before twelve o'clock the moorings are unhooked,
of the boat changed beyond recognition, it had colourful chains
Grand Sea Serpent sails majestically from the port to the open
and chubby balloons hanging from the ceiling. To our surprise,
sea, swinging slightly to the sides. The weather is favourable,
there was also a Christmas tree decorated with balls and lights.
the air temperature exceeds the pleasant 24°C, and the wa-
On the wall there was a large banner announcing the arrival
ter is 23°C. A gentle wind from the south gently wrinkles the
of the New Year 2022.
surface of the water, from which on the horizon emerge the
We start the New Year's Eve party early with a gala dinner,
dorsal fins of the dolphins. Their appearance always brings
where we appear on time at 8 p.m. dressed in evening outfits.
us a lot of joy. Dolphins are like promises, promises of a suc-
We get Santa hats with the red twinkling inscription: 2022. In
cessful voyage.
excellent company and bubbly moods, we celebrate an unfor-
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gettable time on board a boat moored in the Red Sea under
they emerge from it again. The spiky lionfish poses for a picture
a starry sky. We welcome the New Year with bubbles of cham-
against the background of an orange gorgon, and a dappled
pagne accompanied by the song "I ciebie tez" by Podsiadlo,
moraine carries out its hygienic treatments by inviting to is
wishing each other good wishes. Some people decided to dive
muzzle some cleaner fish so that they can clean its mouth.
under the surface of the water at midnight o'clock to celebrate
Life under the surface of the water flows according to its un-
the arrival of the New Year. A little after midnight, the captain
interrupted rhythm, which only a man can disturb when he or
turned off all the lights on the boat. When the "Egyptian dark-
she forgets for a moment that he or she is only a guest here...
ness" reigned, the sky shone with a million stars, showing the
On the same day we do three more dives, one in GOTTA
Milky Way and numerous constellations. We received a beau-
KABIRA, a place famous for its caves, tunnels and numerous
tiful New Year's gift, the cosmos showed us its beauty in all
clearances in the rocks. We also have two dives (a night dive
its perfection.
included) in DANGER REEF, one of the most beautiful reefs on
The next day, at dawn, we arrived at a place known as HABI-
24
our route, which is full of anemones.
LI ALI in the area of St. John’s Island, after last night's celebra-
ABU GALAWA SOGHAYR is located twelve kilometres from
tion, there's only one person who apart from us that has woken
Wadi Lahami in the western part of the Fury Shoals. This place
up for a morning dive. We jump into the sea straight from the
is characterised by a very good water transparency, minute
boat and slowly dive under the surface of the water, accompa-
currents and shallow depth, which makes it a very attractive
nied by the rays of the rising sun, which like star swords cross
location for people with little diving experience. At the foot of
crystal clear water. Various corals, including huge orange and
the reef at sixteen meters, resting on the right side lies the
pink gorgons, they grow a steep, rocky wall sinking into the sea.
wreck of a small sailing yacht, which immediately catches our
We sail at a depth of about twenty-five meters, and below us
attention. Its name and date of sinking are unknown. The syn-
appear two large size blacktip sharks. We're going the same
thetic structure was adopted by sea creatures, which settled in
way. It looks like we have gone diving together this morning,
its interior. Based on their growth, marine researchers date the
we have gone on a New Year's dive. I look down, I look at them,
sinking of the yacht to around 1982. It can be accessed, but it is
I like to watch them, watch their beautiful, agile, streamlined
best to see it from the outside because there is very little space
bodies. We swim along the oval wall, millions of red-orange
inside, which may damage the corals. Not only is the wreck
anthias fish surround us from all sides, and when we try to get
a unique attraction of this location, but it is also a beautiful can-
close to them, they hide nimbly in the reef, and after a while
yon whose coral walls split the reef in half. Spotted stingrays
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Life under the surface of the water flows according to its uninterrupted rhythm, which only a man can disturb when he or she forgets for a moment that he or she is only a guest here...
rest on the sandy bottom beneath the corals. When I get close
sanctuary made up by the water, the sea creatures and the
to them, their enormous eyes are staring at me, I'm not coming
light . It is amazing how quickly the sun sets after our ascent,
too close not to scare them off. We swim through the canyon
how it instantly dissolves in the sea, leaving a pink glow in the
slowly, floating, levitating over coral blocks to fully enjoy their
sky for a moment.
beauty. I stay slightly behind, hang motionless, try to grasp and
Mindfulness can be learned, the underwater world is an
embrace the perfection of this place, which delights not only
excellent teacher, it is enough to immerse yourself under the
with its form, but also with the colours and diversity of life. The
surface of the water and allow yourself to be present here and
rays of the setting sun envelop the coral reef with their warm
now in this one moment in which so much is happening. We
orange-yellow glow. I feel like I'm in an underwater temple, the
disappear underwater at a place called ST. JOHAN’S CAVE.
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Once a wise man told me: “The bigger fool you make of yourself, the more interesting you will be for dolphins.”
We jump into the sea from a boat, the water temperature is 24°C, this is the second dive we do that day. Immediately after immersion, we reach the cone-shaped reef. Due to the strong current, for a while we sail just above the bottom along the beautiful reef formations, and after a while we rise higher where the wide entrance to one of two caverns. The opening is wide, but we go in one at a time. The transparency of the water is excellent, the walls of the cave are covered with both soft and hard corals, in which small shoals of fish have hidden. A pair of yellow-coloured Chaetodontidae fishes are watching us closely, we are watching one another for a while. Some creatures, such as crocodile fish or stingrays, rest on the sand in stillness. A bright light penetrates through the cracks and holes in the rocks to the inside of the cave and fills it with luminous streaks, the view is spectacular. We do not use flashlights, it is very bright, we swim slowly so as not to stir up the sandy bottom. Crossing the entire route in the underwater system of caves and tunnels takes us about 30 minutes. After leaving them, we stay underwater, dive over the coral reef, where in a hurry a large moray is searching for shelter in a rock crevice, and a large napoleon is flowing right next to us. After dinner, we get on the zodiac and sail to a place known as SATAYA, which is also called the dolphin house. Snorkelling with them is a unique experience full of interaction and fun. I always thought that if I stayed calm, I'd practically stop moving and breathing and become invisible to dolphins, and I would be able to enjoy their company for longer. Nothing could be more wrong. Once a wise man told me: “The bigger fool you make of
26
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yourself, the more interesting you will be for dolphins.” He was right, dolphins love to fool around, have fun and they are very interested in people, they can enjoy life in a beautiful way. It is this joy that we should learn from them... I am always very happy to return to ABU DABAB, which is the last place where we are diving during our safari. I feel like I'm floating over a huge underwater green pasture where turtles graze. On the one hand, sea grass grows from the sandy bottom, and on the other hand, there are beautiful rock formations covered with a coral reef inhabited by countless species of sea creatures. It is here that you can most often encounter a panicked remora, which in a hurry is looking for its host and stowaway transport. The live shark sucker, because it is also called so, is a unique creature, which is characterised by a streamlined body shape and an unusual appearance of the head, which is slightly flattened on the tip. Between its head and its spine there is a characteristic oval sucker, which resembles the sole of a shoe. Thanks to that body part, remora is attached to large animals such as turtles, sharks or manta rays. It feeds on the leftovers they leave behind. Her presence indicates that there is a large individual nearby, whom she lost for a moment. Like the remora, we also dive in search of turtles, and if we are very lucky, we will also meet a dugong, called a sea cow, which we had the opportunity to see a month ago in this location... During our dive safari, we performed eighteen dives in the most beautiful places that the far south has to offer. Our destinations are Shaab Marsa Alam, Shaab Sharm, Habili Ali, Gota Kebira, Danger Reef, Gota Soraya, Umm Aruk, Claudia, St. John’s Caves, Sataya Sud, Abu Galawa, Elphistone, Abu Dabab 3. Each of these places tells its extraordinary, different story, which can only be known in one way – by going in person to the far south. The warmest greetings in the world Sylwia
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Is it worth diving in the Caribbean Sea? Text and photos KRZYSZTOF G. BRUDKOWSKI
fine light sand and the stunningly blue and warm water of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other side of the island. The whole family was delighted with the pictures found on the Internet of fabulous coastal views of green forests and long beaches. But is it worth diving in the Dominican Republic? The available information showed that underwater life is not as abundant in the Caribbean Sea as in the Red Sea, but on the other hand, scuba diving videos, which
D
can be found on the popular streaming service, showed that
nations of diving trips such as Egypt, where we have been a few
of his choice in the Bayahibe/Punta Cana area, which was
times recently. At first we chose Zanzibar, but eventually, due
supposed to facilitate the transfer to the diving centre. By the
to the ratio of the price of the entire trip to the length of the
time we left for the Caribbean, we had already set up about
planned stay, we opted for the Dominican Republic, located
where we would be diving. The plan included reefs around
in the eastern part of the island of Haiti. However, we just as-
the island of Catalina with the possibility of beaching on the
sumed that diving would to be an addition to our leisure, not
island and wrecks of St. George and Atlantic Princess. We set
the main purpose of the trip.
prices for 3 diving days covering all the necessary equipment,
esirous of sunshine and warmth, we searched during
On one of the Facebook groups, I found an offer of a Pole
nation for leisure combined with diving. We wanted
who lived for years in the Dominican Republic related to or-
to visit a place which was different from the traditional desti-
ganising dives there. Leszek proposed to stay at the hotel
From our perspective, the Dominican Republic seemed like a paradise with guaranteed weather, beautiful beaches with
28
we will have something to watch.
the Polish winter of January for an interesting desti-
which was convenient, taking into account the weight limits of the luggage.
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Upon arrival the Dominican Republic delighted us not only with beautiful sunny weather and rich vegetation, but also with the open attitude of its inhabitants, who love music.
We stayed in one of the resorts located on the side of the At-
we were to set off on a motorised catamaran for the first day
lantic Ocean in the area of Punta Cana hotels. Upon arrival the
diving in the Caribbean Sea. We quickly chose the right sizes
Dominican Republic delighted us not only with beautiful sunny
of short foams, fins and jackets, and the rest of the equipment
weather and rich vegetation, but also with the open attitude
was to wait for us on board. Most boats sail off from a small
of its inhabitants, who love music. The holiday was going to be
bay, to which you can walk from the nearby base. The entranc-
great, and diving was supposed to be the icing on the cake.
es to the bay are guarded by a cannon taken from the vessel
The Dominican Republic offers many opportunities
Cara Merchant, captured in the lagoon of Isla Catalina by the
to spend free time in an interesting way. It does not have to be
pirate Captain William Kidd, considered one of the cruelest and
just beaching on wild beaches, that are often only described
bloodiest pirates of the 17th century.
as such in adverts. Some beaches are famous for being shot
There are more than 10 officially accessible dive sites near
in advertisements of a certain known rum. We can confirm
Bayahibe that can be reached by boat in 20-30 minutes. The
that it is worth visiting the Samana Peninsula, considered the
next ones are more distant, like Shark Point, and require an ad-
most pristine part of the country. Many attractions can be en-
ditional fuel charge and a group of divers to form. We started
joyed during such a trip. You can visit the rainforest, admire
our diving adventure on that day from a place called the wall (in
the coastline, see the humpback whales emerging from the
Spanish: la Pared Catalina) near the island Isla Catalina, which
Samana Bay, "hunt" for the best shot of the water they release
next to the aquarium (in Spanish: El Acuario) is considered to be
through their blowhole, or sunbathe on the so-called Backardi
one of the best places to dive in this area, and maybe even in
beach, sipping cold coconut milk or something stronger with
the whole Dominican Republic.
a paper straw.
We were fortunate enough to visit this place when the sky
After a few days of blissful rest we started diving. Leszek
was not covered by clouds (passing clouds were every day
took us from the very gate of our resort to the ScubaFun div-
during our stay), and the water was not disturbed by currents,
ing center in Bayahibe, a former fishing village, from where
so the reef appeared in the most intense colours and there was
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quite a lot of visibility underwater. Here we have access to an
the very beginning. Unfortunately, the tour advertised as an
amazing reef covered with an impressive variety of corals of
opportunity to combine relaxation, all-inclusive beaching and
many colours, shapes and sizes and inhabited by various forms
snorkelling on a fantastic coral reef turned out to be a partial
of marine life. We did not see before such funnel and tubular
misunderstanding. The number of people arriving by various
shapes of massive sponges and colours of marine creatures,
boats from Bayahibe and La Romana, gathered on the narrow
from yellow to purple. We saw fish from the family of puffers
shore of the island, deprives this place of any magic and the op-
and Aulostomidae (Caribbean trumpetfish, in Spanish: la corne-
portunity to relax, and snorkelling in the nearby waters did not
ta), shoals of Haemulidae and a beautiful crab. The entry in
provide an experience similar to those known to us from Egypt.
the logbook could therefore be ended with the note "superb
The next day of diving we changed the wetsuits with short
diving". The second dive of the day was not very deep, and it
sleeves to the ones with long sleeves (my partner even put on
was done in a place called the "aquarium". Also this time it was
two ones). Unfortunately, this procedure, as it was to turn out
a very successful dive, one carried out among colourful reefs, in
later, did not prevent the development of a minor infection,
the water with fantastic visibility to a depth not exceeding 13 m.
which had to be caused by cooling down the body the previous
After we got out of the water, our impressions were as good as
day and winding on the boat that happened during the return
after the first descent. The immensity of aquatic life, the diver-
from diving. The rain that fell us on the way back to Bayahi-
sity and the range of colours made us feel fantastic. Summing
be did not remain without any impact on our health condi-
up the dives, we concluded that despite the good temperature
tion either. When planning dives in the Dominican Republic,
in the water reaching 27 degrees (even at a depth of 25 m), we
you should take into account periodic cloudiness and fleeting,
did not feel comfortable diving in short sleeve wetsuits.
short-term precipitation, even if they are to take place in the dry
The day was supposed to end on a beach, on the very is-
30
season, which prevails at the beginning of the calendar year.
land of Catalina, advertised as a place famous for beautiful
Two more dives were to take place on the reefs closer
beaches, full of dazzling white, fine sand and palm trees. My
to Bayahibe. We jumped into the water at a place called Coco
family members who did not dive went there in a zodiac at
Reef and couldn't believe it was a reef in the Caribbean Sea.
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Unfortunately, we came across such turbid water and a cloudy day that nothing had any charm for us. The dive was "saved" by a beautiful octopus, which thanked us, spreading its body like an umbrella and letting itself be admired for a long time, before escaping in the gray-brown corners of corals. After getting out of the water, we decided that diving in such conditions did not make sense. Fortunately, the dive site can be changed, Leszek accompanying us all the time offered us to dive on the shallow Atlantic Princess wreck, which is available even for novice divers. Diving on this wreck should not be difficult. The wreck itself offers the opportunity to watch colourful life at shallow depths. The ship was intentionally sunk in 2008, and it has now grown soft and hard corals covering all the elements. It is home to shoals of fish from the snapper family, groupers and all underwater tiny creatures that love al the nooks and crannies. The wreck is well lit, it is also a fantastic place for underwater photographers. With a bit of luck, you can see reef sharks here, which unfortunately did not happen to us. Due to my partner's rhinitis, we had to take a few days break from diving, which we spent resting in the resort, walks along
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travels
(...) but wrecks can even stun with how they have merged into the ecosystem, giving a good example of how nature can use for its own purposes what we have left.
240 meters, lying at 44 meters and the peak reaching around 15 meters. The wreck has become home to many organisms that can be easily observed. We saw there a big crab, and it is probably not the only one we noticed. You can often encounter barracudas near it, shrimp hide in the nooks and crannies, and sponges and corals overgrow it. In many places you can no longer see almost the original metal. You can easily penetrate the wreck, swim inside and get out through numerous holes. In the open parts of the wreck there was good visibility, but in the corners floating particles did not allow the torch light that we used to photograph and record. Due to the depth, careful monitoring of the air supply and non-decompression time during diving is essential. One dive on this wreck is definitely not enough to be able to get to know it well. Unfortunately, we couldn't afford the stretching beach and exploring the nearby part of the island – the aforementioned Saona Peninsula. To postpone dives was not a problem for our guardian.
32
more time. The Dominican Republic is a great place to look for the sun and warm water, a mixture of cultures, natural beauty, and at
During the last day of diving, we decided to visit the Atlantic
the same time gain new diving experiences. You have to have
Princess wreck again, but we started diving from the wreck of
some luck to appreciate the difference in marine life on the
Saint Gorge, requiring a deeper descent to around 40 meters.
Caribbean reefs, but wrecks can even stun with how they have
We were recommended diving on this wreck as one of the
merged into the ecosystem, giving a good example of how
best dive sites in the area. The wreck Saint George, like the
nature can use for its own purposes what we have left. An
Atlantic Princess, was also deliberately sunk, only earlier, in
undeniable added value for divers are wonderful landscapes,
1999, for the purpose of making it an attraction and habitat for
which, preserved in the photos, will allow the memories to last
marine life near Bayahibe. It is an impressive wreck measuring
until the next trip.
planet earth
Green and hawksbill ENDANGERED SPECIES OF TURTLES OF THE RED SEA
Text and photos KLAUDYNA BRZOSTOWSKA PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
33
planet earth
M 34
ost likely, anyone who has dived into the waters of
STATUS
Egypt has encountered a turtle of some sort. Chanc-
Scientists currently recognise seven living species of sea tur-
es are it was a long encounter, and the animal itself
tles around the world. Five of these can be found in the Red
was bold and eager to interact. These animals often live on
Sea. The most common are the green turtle (Chelonia mydas)
reefs or feed among grasses. It would seem that turtle popula-
and the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate). Less common
tions in Egypt are doing well, however, this is not entirely true...
are leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), the loggerhead
planet earth
turtle (Caretta caretta) and the olive ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea). The first listed species has endangered status with a declining population trend. The latter is critically endangered – both are listed by the IUCN (The International Union for Conservation of Nature – https://www.iucnredlist.org).
are carnivorous, feeding on snails and ctenophores. As adults
Photographic identification remains the main method for
they eat seaweed and sea grasses. A well-known diving site in
obtaining data on endangered species. It allows us to identify
Egypt, Abu Dabbab, is home to many green turtles. They stay
each individual turtle by photographing and characterising its
there to feed on the extensive seagrasses and rest in the bay.
body parts. By identifying each individual, we can learn about
Often, around 10 large green turtles can be seen on a single
their movement patterns and, above all, whether they tend
dive at Abu Dabbab.
to return to the same area. By knowing where they go, we learn where to protect these globally endangered species.
HAWKSBILL TURTLE The hawksbill turtle has a beautiful carapace that caused it
GREEN TURTLE
to be hunted almost to extinction. The hawksbill was prized for
The name green turtle does not come from the colour of the
its shell, which was used in combs, brushes, fans and furniture.
carapace, which is usually brown or olive, depending on the
Today, the hawksbill turtle is listed as critically endangered,
habitat, but from the greenish colour of the skin. Weighing
meaning that commercial trade is prohibited. These animals
up to 300 kilograms, green turtles are among the largest sea
are named for the shape of their beak, which is similar to a rap-
turtles in the world. Their proportionally small head (which
tor's beak.
they cannot hide!) protrudes from a heart-shaped carapace that measures up to 150 centimetres. Males are slightly larg-
You can find interesting facts, research and photos related to
er than females and have a longer tail. Both have paddle-like
sea turtle conservation in Egypt under the following links:
flippers, making them powerful swimmers. Adult green tur-
— https://www.medasset.org/support/
tles are the only herbivorous sea turtles. As younglings they
— https://www.hepca.org/projects/project/115
PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
35
planet earth
Killer whales
KILLERS, VICTIMS, MOTIVES AND MYSTERIES
Text and photos JAKUB BANASIAK
Orca in captivity
Are orcas truly killer whales? Who is guilty and who is the victim? Are orcas dangerous for people? These questions recur from time to time in the media, but also in the minds of tourists and divers who meet orcas in various places around the world.
36
O
rcas are some of the most pow-
Instead, orcas have been an import-
erful marine predators that kill
ant part of coastal indigenous cultures
a variety of animals to survive,
for millennia. In the Pacific Northwest,
and their diet varies among popula-
indigenous people have always related
tions around the world. But where did
to orcas with awe and respect, which
the word 'killer' come from? Until about
is why these mammals hold an import-
60 years ago, orcas were widely viewed
ant place in their art, mythology and
by humans (apart from the indigenous
social life.
people of North America) as the embod-
For example, the Haida people of
iment of evil, ready to destroy boats and
the Haida Gwaii Islands on the north
devour sailors at every opportunity. In
coast of British Columbia revered the
1973, US Navy diving manuals described
orca, or Ska'na, as the most powerful
the orca as "an extremely vicious animal",
inhabitant of the underwater world.
warning that it "attacks humans at every
Among the Kwakwaka'wakw on the
opportunity" (although there was abso-
northeast coast of Vancouver Island,
lutely no evidence to support this claim).
the orca, or Max'inux, was one of the
planet earth
earliest ancestors, mythical beings from which every family group descended. The orca was regarded as the supreme ruler of the world below the ocean's surface. Many coastal First Nations believe that orcas can embody the souls of deceased chiefs. Throughout the world, orcas are found in a wide range of habitats, both in the open ocean and coastal waters. They have the most diverse diet of all cetaceans. Different populations tend to specialise in acquiring their characteristic foods. They often follow a coordinated hunting strategy, working as a team like a wolf pack. For this reason, they are sometimes called "wolves of the ocean". Although the diet of orcas depends to some extent on what is available Orcas near Skjervøy
where they live, it is primarily determined by the culture (i.e., learned hunting tactics) of each ecotype. For
playing in the shallows. In order to catch
pouncing on them from above and not
example, one ecotype of orca in the
a young sea lion, the orca accelerates
allowing the exhausted whale to swim
Pacific Northwest of the United States
and swims out onto the beach using
away to catch its breath. Most often, or-
(called residents) feeds exclusively on
the wave’s momentum. It is important
cas only eat the tongue and lower jaw of
fish, mainly salmon, while another eco-
to catch the prey as quickly as possible
a hunted whale.
type in the same area (called transients
and withdraw to deeper water. If it set-
The hunting of orcas for seals in Ant-
or Bigg's killer whales) feeds mainly on
tled on the beach, it would end up dead.
arctic areas is particularly interesting.
Some orcas have developed a tech-
First, one of the orcas sticks its head
Orcas use very diverse and com-
nique for killing sharks and can handle
high above the water (so-called spy hop-
plex hunting strategies. Moreover, they
such dangerous species as mako shark,
ping) in order to spot a seal on the floe.
adapt their techniques to the type of
blue shark, tiger shark or even great
Then a group of several orcas starts
prey. They are extremely creative, learn-
white without much trouble. When
a coordinated manoeuvre: two or three
ing, improving their hunting techniques
attacking a shark, the orca first tries
of them try to create a strong wave on
and passing them on from generation
to push its opponent towards the sur-
one side of the floe, so as to flush the
to generation.
marine mammals and squid.
face, then strikes its prey with a pow-
lying seal into the sea, while on the oth-
We could read about the Norwegian
erful tail fin, effectively stunning it.
er side of the ice sheet other individu-
population of orcas, hunting herring
Observations in recent years show that
als are already waiting to catch it. If this
and using "carousel fishing" and "lob-
orcas are probably aware that they can
strategy does not work, the orcas push
tailing" strategies, in PERFECT DIVER No.
induce the tonic immobility by hold-
against the floe with their bodies so that
19, in Klaudyna Brzostowska's wonder-
ing the shark upside down. Even great
the seal slides into the water under its
ful report entitled "Shoals of herring,
white sharks can be rendered immobile
own weight.
matriarchy of killer whales and hump-
in this way.
back whales, or Norwegian winter be-
Such hunts, as well as moments
They employ a completely different
when females teach their cubs the art of
hunting strategy towards large ceta-
hunting, every now and then grabbing
Orcas inhabiting the waters off the
ceans such as minke whales, juvenile
and releasing a whale calf or tossing
coast of South America are very keen
grey whales and humpback whales.
a sea lion puppy into the air, look ex-
on hunting sea lions, especially inexpe-
Since these mammals need to breathe
tremely dramatic. No wonder the term
rienced juveniles lying on the beach or
air, orcas simply try to drown them by
killer whale is still in use.
yond the Arctic Circle".
PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
37
planet earth
DO THESE SOPHISTICATED PREDA-
away from people. Suddenly, one indi-
city in north-western Spain, a yacht was
TORS ALSO ATTACK HUMANS?
vidual turned towards a surfer, com-
struck by an orca around 15 times. The
Until now, there have been very few cas-
ing within half a metre of him before
damaged boat had to be towed back
es of wild orcas attacking humans. Most
quickly changing course. Researchers
to port. Near Cape Trafalgar, nine orcas
marine biologists believe that these re-
from the Norwegian Orca Survey (NOS),
reportedly hit the boat for more than
corded incidents were due to the orcas
which has been observing the local orca
an hour and forced the crew to shut
initially misidentifying humans as prey.
population for more than 20 years, be-
down the engine. In most cases, these
In such cases, the orca instantly aborts
lieve that the orcas were searching for
large dolphins were primarily interest-
the attack when it realises its mistake.
seal prey at this location. These preda-
ed in the rudder – nibbling and destroy-
One of the most dramatic exam-
tors use echolocation to better investi-
ing it.
ples of such behaviour was an incident
gate their habitat and prey. According
Orcas have often approached sail-
during the Terra Nova expedition of
to the NOS team, it is very likely that the
ing boats before, but this was simply
1910. While the expedition was travers-
charging orca realised at the last sec-
a sign of curiosity, and the orcas did
ing pack ice, a group of orcas attempted
ond that the surfer was not a seal, so it
not rub up against the boats. The cur-
to overturn the cracked ice sheets and
turned sharply and simply moved away.
rent behaviour has surprised everyone
throw people and dogs into the wa-
Renowned cetacean researcher Dr Nao-
and has become the subject of in-depth
ter. However, most marine biologists
mi Rose takes a similar view, pointing
research. Last autumn, some scientists
believe that the attack was caused by
out that any predator can be confused
concluded that only three juveniles
mistaking the barking of dogs for the
by stimuli that mimic prey, but orcas,
were responsible for the described in-
sounds of seals and was not an intend-
thanks to their abilities, can realise the
cidents. They called them Black Gladis,
ed attack on humans.
situation very quickly and change their
Grey Gladis and White Gladis. But why
intent. They are not mindless killers.
did they do it?
In fact, there is currently only one confirmed case of a wild orca attack
In 2020, even more surprising inter-
Jörn Selling, marine biologist for one
on a human. This attack took place in
actions between orcas and humans oc-
of Tarifa's whale watching operators,
1972 and involved surfer Hans Kret-
curred off the coasts of Portugal, Spain
suggests that this behaviour could be
schmer. Kretschmer encountered seals
and in the Strait of Gibraltar. During the
a consequence of the first lockdown
in the water while surfing near Point
summer months, mariners and sailors
during the coronavirus pandemic. From
Sur. Shortly after, he felt something
from many small vessels reported con-
March 2020, there were no yachts in the
extremely strong grab his thigh. A large
frontations between orcas and their
region at all for almost three months be-
predator grabbed his leg with its teeth
boats. Orcas would come very close,
fore they reappeared and their return
and released him in a moment. There
hit the hull, push the boats, turn them
may have been stressful for the orcas,
was no further attack and the swimmer
around, block and bite the rudder. In
especially as it coincided with the hunt-
made it safely to shore. The bite was
some cases, the damage was exten-
ing season for tuna, which migrate into
deep but clean. Although it required
sive and the boats not only lost parts
the area at that time.
more than 100 stitches and could eas-
of their rudders, but also their ability
Another explanation may be the
ily have led to death, the whole situa-
to manoeuvre. At least one crew mem-
conflict between orcas and fishermen.
tion looked more like a mistake made
ber was injured as a result of the shocks
These dolphins have been stealing
by the orca than a deliberate attack on
and sudden movements of the boats.
tuna from fishermen for decades, bit-
the man.
These were not random encounters.
ing off large chunks of these valuable
In one incident near A Coruña, a port
fish and sometimes stealing whole piec-
In recent years, the media have reported a number of further alleged attacks on humans by orcas, but a close examination of individual cases leads to a rather different interpretation of events. In September 2017, orcas appeared during the semi-final of the Lofoten Masters surfing competition in northern Norway, on Unstad beach. Most of the pod was swimming some distance
38
es and teaching their young to do so.
...any predator can be confused by stimuli that mimic prey, but orcas, thanks to their abilities, can realise the situation very quickly and change their intent. They are not mindless killers.
There are many indications that fishermen are aggressively trying to defend themselves against orcas. Photo-video documentation of orcas from the area reveals many wounds on their bodies, including puncture wounds, which must have been passed with something like a spear, pike pole or harpoon. Perhaps these alleged attacks on sailboats were
planet earth
Marine trade routes and cetacean routes often intersect and can lead to collisions.
a reaction to what the fishermen had
on the beach in Ceuta with their fins cut
planning an attack, these cetaceans
previously done to these orcas.
off and their bodies shot.
always sneak up on their prey and
Boat and ship traffic in the Strait of
In human terms, it could be said
are very aggressive. Their hunting be-
Gibraltar has long been a problem for
that orcas have many reasons to show
haviour is different from the behaviour
marine animals. Apart from contain-
their displeasure at the excessive traf-
towards the boats they claim to be
er ships and ferries, even cruise ships
fic and number of vessels, especially
attacking. Renaud de Stephanis there-
and whale watching boats do not al-
during their tuna hunting season. En-
fore believes that these orcas are sim-
ways maintain the required minimum
vironmental pollution, noise that dis-
ply playing. In the animal world, play
distance of 60 metres from animals.
rupts communication within the family
means not so much entertainment as
There have been numerous collisions
group, physical pressure, incidents of
exploration, experimentation, learning
between the animals and various ves-
crew aggression towards marine ani-
by experience. It is a manifestation of
sels, propeller injuries and for many
mals are all strong stressors. However,
curiosity and an element of learning
sailors and boat owners an encounter
scientists do not believe that orcas wish
new behaviour.
with a cetacean is not at all a desirable
to harm the people on board the vessels
A report by the GT Orca Atlantica
adventure. There is a thriving drug and
or attack the boats out of revenge. In
team indicates that what attracts and
migrant trade on the border between
the opinion of some researchers, the
interests orcas the most is the rudder
Europe and Africa. Smugglers' boats
behaviour of orcas is rather related
of the boat. Stopping the boat, stopping
obviously do not follow any cetacean
to play. Biologist Renaud de Stephanis
the engine and letting go of the rudder
welfare advice, do not slow down and
claims that such incidents do not at all
causes their interest to drop and, in
do not avoid dolphin pods. In April 2020,
resemble the aggressive behaviour of-
most cases, they stop the interaction.
nine smaller dolphins were found dead
ten observed when orcas hunt. When
Only 50% of the boats they interacted
PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
39
planet earth
with suffered any damage. It is therefore difficult to speak of aggression and intentional attack. However, there are places where orcas attack, injure and kill people. This happens in oceanariums, dolphinariums – where these great dolphins are kept in captivity. Leading orca scientists agree that captivity is devastating for these marine mammals, which in the wild form close relationships with each other, travel more than 100km a day and work in packs to hunt and find food suitable for themselves. Many orcas have been captured and forced to perform in captivity, to live in completely unnatural conditions. These conditions cause them stress, anxiety and depression that is not seen in wild orcas. There have been over 150 well-documented dangerous behaviours of orcas towards humans in captivity, including 4 fatalities. What could be their source? Let us go back in history. On 18 November 1961, the first orca was captured in Newport Harbor, California. She was placed in a 30x15x6 m oval tank. She immediately began bumping into the walls and swimming restlessly in her new, unnatural environment. Less than two days after her capture she was found dead in her pool. Many biologists believe that her death was a suicide. After unleashing herself, she hit the walls with her body until she fell as a result of her injuries. Such acts of self-harm are not natural behaviour for orcas but are quite common in captivity. Many captive orcas inflict pain on themselves because they are bored and frustrated with their environment. One of the most common
Orcas kept at Loro Parque in Tenerife captured as they refused to take part in the show
However, there are places where orcas attack, injure and kill people. This happens in oceanariums, dolphinariums – where these great dolphins are kept in captivity.
ways of self-harm is through dental de-
40
tributes to many problems among orcas in oceanariums and dolphinariums. The aggression shown by orcas in captivity is not just limited to other orcas, but also to humans. Perhaps the most notorious incident was the death of SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau after she was attacked by a male orca, Tilikum, who had already killed two other people. Tilikum was caught from the sea off the coast of Iceland when he was
struction. Orcas in captivity often bite
tivity. Because orcas in captivity cannot
just two years old. Taken to the neglect-
and chew the covers and edges of pools,
choose their companions, we often see
ed Sealand of the Pacific marine park,
causing great pain and damaging their
more dominant cetaceans intimidating
Tilikum lived in very harsh conditions
teeth. All this is indicative of the great
younger ones in enclosures. Sometimes
for a long time. He was denied food and
frustration, boredom and stress that
individuals from completely different
often endured attacks from two domi-
constantly accompanies them.
populations are kept in the same facili-
nant females. He had to perform eight
The only recorded fatal attack by
ty, 'speaking' in completely different di-
times a day, seven days a week. For
one orca on another occurred in cap-
alects. Lack of communication also con-
Tilikum, being such a highly intelligent,
planet earth Former SeaWorld orca trainer John Hargrove reveals details of Alexis Martinez's death (Whale Fest 2015)
were made to hide the fact that it was an obvious act of animal's aggression, it was suggested that it was the trainer's mistake, that Keto's behaviour did not indicate any danger. There was no mention of the fact that the animal was frustrated and stressed. Here is what Loro Parque owner Wolfgang Kiessling had to say on the matter: "It was an accident. Accidents happen..." The truth about the actual course of the accident was concealed even from the victim's mother. The most important thing was to keep it quiet so as not to lose the clientele! SeaWorld as the rightful owner emotional and socially complex animal,
one to kill. Home to another killer orca
of Keto remained silent, so did Loro
captivity was physically and mentally
is the infamous Loro Parque in Tener-
Parque. Much was only revealed after
devastating.
ife, so popular among Polish tourists. It
a male Tilikum killed trainer Dawn Bran-
Readers who have watched the doc-
was here 12 years ago on Christmas Eve
cheau two months later in another Sea-
umentary "Blackfish" will probably re-
that the orca named Keto killed Alex-
World-owned marine park. The death of
member that Tilikum was not the only
is Martinez, a young coach. Attempts
a staff member was harder to conceal in
Loro Parque orcas forced into unnatural behaviour
PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
41
planet earth
Ingrid Visser presents the scale of injury as a consequence of aggression between orcas in the oceanarium (Brighton 2014)
42
The orcas from Loro Parque were described as the most dysfunctional group of orcas in captivity. They were all separated from their mothers at an incredibly young age (something that would be very unlikely in the wild).
other incidents in which Keto showed
and aggression. Keto and the other indi-
aggressive
viduals had to constantly fight for their
behaviour
towards
his
trainers. Nothing happens for no rea-
position in the pool.
son. From a young age, Keto has been
As described by journalist Tim
moved from one SeaWorld facility to an-
Zimmermann, the constant boredom
other an alarming number of times. And
caused stereotypic behaviours in the
every such transport is a huge stress for
orcas,
an animal. Finally, he was sent from the
gnawing and chewing on concrete pool
United States to Loro Parque in Tener-
edges and strips of Metflex, a rubber
ife together with 3 other random or-
compound used for waterproofing.
cas. The orcas from Loro Parque were
These behaviours caused Keto to have
described as the most dysfunctional
significant cavities in his teeth threat-
the United States than on the Canary Is-
group of orcas in captivity. They were
ening infections, and Metflex poisoning
land, where Loro Parque has enormous
all separated from their mothers at an
was suspected. He was also observed
influence.
incredibly young age (something that
to have a mucus running from his left
including
health-threatening
A journalistic investigation and con-
would be very unlikely in the wild). As
eye, a likely sign of irritation from the
sultation with scientists revealed that
there was no dominant adult and expe-
chemicals poured into the pools. As
many moments in Keto's life could have
rienced pack leader in the group (as al-
Zimmermann wrote in his publications,
foreshadowed the tragic ending. Orca
ways happens in the wild), the social sit-
"A frustrated killer whale – whether it's
researcher Ingrid Visser gathered infor-
uation among the orcas at Loro Parque
struggling with captivity, social struc-
mation from various sources about four
was characterised by stress, uncertainty
ture, sexual tension, poor health, or
planet earth
Apathy and awaiting coach's attention
Let this article be a tribute to Alex-
tivity industry, which keeps wild ma-
is Martinez and the other victims not
rine animals in conditions that violate
Finally, it is worth mentioning Alexis's
only of enslaved orcas, but above all
their natural needs.
mother, Mrs Mercedes Hernandez. De-
the greedy cruel and dirty dolphin cap-
training failures – is a potentially dangerous killer whale."
spite a great personal tragedy, this extraordinary and strong woman became, after the loss of her son, a defender of orcas and an activist against their captivity. Together with local animal protection groups, she protests against the cruel conditions in which orcas are kept in places such as Loro Parque. For years she has dreamt of meeting orcas in their natural habitat. Thanks to the support of her family and friends, she was able to fulfil this dream. A few years ago, she experienced an unusual and very exciting encounter with free-ranging wild orcas in Canada, off the coast of Vancouver Island. She was able to admire the orcas from her sea kayak from several dozen metres, observe their family groups, natural behaviour, listen to their characteristic sounds. And all this in conditions where no one is threatened, and the name "killer whale" ceases to make any sense. John Hargrove during his presentation on orca casualties and the deaths of Alexis Martinez and Dawn Brancheau
PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
43
our conversation
For Ocean From Us TWO DIVERS IN CONVERSATION ABOUT ECO GLASSES. MAREK KUCHARZ RESPONDS, WOJCIECH ZGOŁA ASKS.
Glasses photos FOFU Underwater photos MAREK KUCHARZ
Wojciech Zgoła: Hi Marek!
WZ: What way, why is it special?
Marek Kucharz: Hi :)
MK: You know, everyone is eco now, the banks and their eco-cards. Seriously, only 30% of plastic is recycled, and that
WZ: It is different to talk seeing each other face to face
doesn't change anything about what's in the forests and lakes.
without masks.
Plus, so-called biodegradable plastics... I still have them bur-
MK: Exactly.
ied in my garden. It's been three years now and nothing has happened. Why? It's biodegradable but only if it's not mixed
WZ: Before we start about glasses… How long have you
with other plastics, the temperature is above 60°C and the
been diving?
environment is very rich in oxygen. Then it will decompose in
MK: It's been almost 18 years now, I started when I was 17. So,
about 40 days. Where in Europe are such landfills?
it's been a while. My first dive was in Poland, but mostly I dived outside of Poland. On the Great Reef in Australia...
WZ: So another marketing ploy… MK: Exactly. That's why I wanted to do something that was
WZ: Oh, I envy you, it's one of my unfulfilled dreams so far ;)
quickly noticeable.
MK: I saw a lot of cool stuff there. In fact, for a dozen or so years I had such a job that I dived on almost all continents.
WZ: Quick results.
I still have Antarctica left. The last years I spent in the Canary
MK: Yes, you collect something, it's not in the environment and
Islands where I had the opportunity to dive several times
it's not going to end up in the ocean. The idea was to make
a week. And there you could see the change the most, less
something out of this rubbish that would be usable. And then
and less fish and more and more plastic. I'm talking about
wait, maybe in 20, 30 years' time someone will invent a tech-
diving in the same places.
nology that will allow us to do something with this plastic that will benefit the environment...
WZ: And where specifically did you live?
44
MK: On Tenerife, but I dived around all the islands. I always had
WZ: And it worked!
this urge to try to do something cool somewhere. I was surfing
MK: (smile) The easiest and cheapest way is to buy processed
the Internet... and I came up with the idea of making something
pellets and make something out of them. All in all, it will also
cool out of this collected plastic. But in a special way.
be an eco-product. However, this is still the 30%, and I wanted
our conversation
to go further. I wanted to collect and make something out of it right away. And that it would ultimately be a usable product. And that is how FOFU was created. WZ: And why this name? MK: For Ocean From Us. I wanted to build a story around this. I've always had something to do with seas and oceans, so that's where the acronym comes from, plus we're in Silesia, one of the most polluted regions in Poland. I wanted to do something
...(biodegradable plastics) It's biodegradable but only if it's not mixed with other plastics, the temperature is above 60°C and the environment is very rich in oxygen. Then it will decompose in about 40 days. Where in Europe are such landfills?
for the environment from Silesia. That is why there is the inscription "From Silesia With Love" on the inside of the frame. WZ: And so, the name FOFU was born, as well as the idea. MK: You know, doing something like this is a big investment. As I returned to Poland just before the pandemic, and had more time, I created those machines myself. It was time to put ideas into practice and do something with that rubbish. WZ: But how was it with these machines? MK: Initially, I wanted to buy them. However, the prices I was offered quickly made me make them myself. I came to an agreement with the guys from Barcelona about the form because they wanted too much money from me in Poland. WZ: At this point you decided that it would be glasses. MK: Yes, a universal product, used by virtually everyone in the world. And my idea is that by the end of the year all
PERFECTDIVER
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our conversation
production will be based on solar energy. I want it to be 100% ecological. WZ: That's why you need to be supported and shown to the world! It's cool that there are such people who bring dreams/ideas to life. MK: (Smile) Thank you. Many people laugh at me. But they will see that in a few years it will be the largest recycling company in Europe and then in the world. Something must be done, or we'll drown in this plastic! WZ: What about the colours? MK: We are unrestricted when it comes to colour. The easiest way is to dye it, but we don't do that. The reason is simple, it has to be pure PP or HDPE plastic, which are the safest plastics for human consumption. As far as we can say that plastic is safe, this is the safest one. These include trays, cutlery, packaging etc. It can be recycled repeatedly if it’s without admixtures.
46
our conversation
WZ: You can see that these glasses are made of multi-coloured plastic. MK: My mother-in-law collected some flowerpots on the beach. I ground them together and that was it. WZ: The colour came out quite interesting. MK: Yes, exactly. That was the idea, but normally we segregate plastic into colours and then we make a specific one. There's so much of it that the colour palette is very diverse.
WZ: And are you able to make glasses during the event, out of the plastic we pull out of the lake?
WZ: You could say that we both deal with waste by diving.
MK: I need 20 minutes :)
We have been doing it for many years. Me, maybe less productively, because I just collect this rubbish from the
WZ: A matter of sorting out the rubbish, isn't it?
seas, lakes and rivers, sort it and send it to landfills. You
MK: Yes, we segregate plastic and we're ready to go.
took it a step further. You choose plastic, segregate it, and make glasses out of it. Tell us, is any plastic suitable for
WZ: So, a diver can come without glasses and return with
your FOFU glasses? Like, for example, plastic bags?
glasses?!
MK: Theoretically we can also make glasses out of them (plastic
MK: If he wants to, he can make them himself.
bags). However, it is LDPE plastic – that is light, I call it "blown". Such glasses would be very, very flexible. But let me add right
WZ: Fantastic. Diving is a cool thing :) Okay, so kept think-
away that I have an idea to use this plastic to make waist bags
ing about, but how long did it take from the decision to
or, for example, baseball caps. But we take it easy, one step at
the final product?
a time, because you won't stretch a day.
MK: 6 months into my first pair of glasses. There were glasses but with no lenses yet. So, from the decision to start up,
WZ: Of course. Marek, if there is going to be a Clean Up the
getting very good lenses and hinges, to creating some small
World 2022 final, I already invite you to it, you are coming
stock took a year in total. Why so long? You know, you can buy
with one of those machines, because you told me on the
lenses in China for a dollar, I personally wouldn't want those.
phone that you also have mobile machines which you use
I don't know if that would be worse for the eyes than not wear-
to educate.
ing glasses... I wanted lenses with filters, which are a medical
MK: Yes, we have 2 such machines, one to grind and one to
product. I wanted it to be a Polish product and I agreed with
inject.
the manufacturer in Gdynia, Poland.
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our conversation
WZ: My congratulations. I am very impressed. MK: Thanks. I would like to add that we also have a finished design for an eco-case. It will also be produced from plastic waste. WZ: And how much plastic do you need to collect to make these glasses? MK: 21 grams. WZ: There was this film, 21 Grams, about how much a soul weighs... WZ: Yes, although that's just a coincidence. They are generally very light. At first, I thought this was a disadvantage. However, users have persistently persuaded me otherwise. On top of that, while browsing the Internet, I found out that scientists have calculated that 21 grams of plastic are consumed on average by each person per month. WZ: Seriously, it's a disaster with this microplastic that we eat willy-nilly... WZ: Unfortunately, yes, it is a disaster. WZ: Distribution? WZ: I am in the process of making arrangements with a company that has 50 outlets in Poland. There are Diving Centres that have FOFU in their offer. Plus social media. WZ: We as Perfect Diver join in. WZ: The plans are there, I hope it will develop. WZ: And we wish you that! Thank you very much for meeting and talking to us, and for the 15% discount on glasses for our readers. WZ: Thank you for your interest and we’ll be in touch.
MAREK KUCHARZ did not think that writing a few sentences about himself could be such a big problem. "I will definitely not become a national prophet. I started my diving adventure over 15 years ago and to this day I definitely prefer the company of sharks to people. Thanks to various circumstances, and then thanks to my work, I had the opportunity to dive almost on all continents, in the most remote corners of the world. Unfortunately, I started my adventure with photography a little later, so I have to come back to most of these places and it scares me. The changes in ecosystems are drastic, when I take pictures I want to show what is not visible – the beauty of the underwater world, which we need to start taking better care of. I hope that the photos will make the public aware that there is something to care for and that changes can be stopped so that the next generations can enjoy the underwater world full of life."
www.fofuworld.pl
with code perfectdiver –15%
48
underwater inspirations
Painting entitled "RAFA" ("REEF"), Format 81 x 60 cm, Technique – acrylic on canvas
I
n this work I wanted to draw the viewer's attention to the
Maja Woźniak, born 16 September 1996 in Bydgoszcz
turquoise glow of the water around the creatures living in
Student of Painting, currently in the fourth year of studies, at
the coral reefs.
the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń (major: painting
When diving around those objects, it feels as if the organ-
in architecture, Stained Glass and Artistic Glass Workshop).
isms living on the coral reefs were creating a glow around
Currently resides and continues her studies in Toruń.
themselves. This is clearly visible even in the photos taken
In her work she mainly draws inspiration from marine mo-
during visits to the reefs.
tifs, fish and plants.
The streamlined, flexible and changing shapes are an
In her works, she captures the state of being under water.
endless source of inspiration for me, looking at a photo of
She finds herself best in abstract organic painting.
a coral I imagine how it moves underwater, what colours it glows with and what colours the surrounding water is. This is
Author’s contact: majaw580@gmail.com
how I form my language of artistic expression.
PERFECTDIVER
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under the ceiling
THE CAVETTES Text JOANNA WYREBEK
Photo Jacek Rożycki, Joanna
Photo Magnus Määttä, Sara
Photo Hedwig Dieraert, Sanne
realised that despite our combined diving careers spanning
Take three female diving instructors with one shared passion, add some water and boom: The Cavettes is born! (Well it wasn’t as simple as that )
over 27 years, we hadn’t ever been in an all-female team for any exploration, cave/mine or deep wreck dives. We decided that had to change and arranged to meet and explore the beautiful underwater world together. From that initial meeting the idea began to form – we could unite to promote the sport positively for more women, breaking down some of the perceived barriers particularly to the technical, mine,
I 50
cave and cold-water side that's heavily male dominated (even n 2020 we met on social media, and despite being from
most equipment is designed principally for you ‘guys’ – e.g.
across Europe, bonded over each other’s passion for
the Triton is a lovely rebreather but doesn’t work well with
diving, adventures posts and photos. We got talking and
larger chests!).
under the ceiling
Photo Patrik Grönqvist, Sara
Photo Jacek Rożycki, Joanna
WHO ARE WE: Sara (Sweden) — Queen of the North! She absolutely loves cold. Green waters, ice and snow are her natural element. She easily handles >2 hour dives in 1°C water without using any heating system (crazy right?!). — Super organised, smart and the ‘loudest’ one in the group, her sense of humour is brilliant! — She trains a lot and is very hard on herself, that’s what makes her such a good diver. — Has been diving on a JJ CCR unit since 2019. — Everything from mines, wrecks, caves and nature dives is what she enjoys! Photo Alexandre Legrix, Sanne
Sanne (Belgium) — Often called Barbie thanks to her love of pink, this misconception is quickly shattered once you see her under-
Joanna aka JoJo (Poland/UK)
water; her perfect trim on the Kiss Sidewinder CCR has
— Jo’s the oldest of the group and apparently wisdom comes
been mastered over hundreds of hours (over 200 hrs to
with age but noooope! Everyone Jo dived with before she
be exact).
moved onto a CCR used to love being underwater with her
— Perhaps the most passionate of the group, it’s hard not to
as it was the only time she’d shut up. Unfortunately that all
be infected and fall in deeper love with diving whilst in her
changed in 2018 when she did her Mod1 on a JJ (before con-
presence!
verting to an XCCR); now there is no respite above or below!
— Show Sanne a tiny restriction underwater and she will
— Jo got into diving later in life but quickly fell in love and
squeeze through it effortlessly; who doesn’t love a tight
decided to share that passion with others by becoming an
hole!
instructor a couple of years later.
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under the ceiling
Photo Guy Trees, Joanna
Photo Guy Trees, Joanna
The Swedish Princess Tuna mine was amazing but at the same time some dives were challenging and plagued with issues (well, maybe not for Sara because she almost lives there) as it is not uncommon that gear optimized for warmer waters tend to have a need to be adjusted for colder waters. On this trip we were incredibly lucky to be joined by several of our friends and some amazing photographers. You can see some of their work on social media. Over the course of the week-long trip we created a true diving family bond and laid the foundations for The Cavettes. Our ideas started to flow on just how we could work together to spread the word to more women, encourage them to one Photo Hedwig Dieraert, Sanne
day see the beauty of the world we had just explored, and what else we could do to support them and grow our community.
— Opposite to Sara, she loves her heating systems while diving, yet she always feels the cold, even in the UK (which isn’t
WHERE NEXT?
cold according to Sara)!
Hot on the heels of our first trip we wanted more; we had to spend further time underwater together and given we all
OUR FIRST TRIP
love mines, decided to look at other European destinations.
Full of trepidation about potentially not getting along in per-
Sanne is currently exploring mines in Belgium and suggested
son, and not being comfortable under the water together as
she could host and we would accompany her.
a team, we met in December 2021 to embark on our first ad-
We are planning to spend a week there in June and will
venture together. We had decided to discover the cold beauty
possibly also dive the North Sea (if the sea allows us) so we
of Sweden's Tuna Hästberg mine – (facts and info about mine
can be joined by some guests who aren’t as comfortable un-
– Perfect Diver No. 19, Swedish Princess, Tomek Ramutkowski,
derground.
page 11). Thankfully all our concerns were quickly put to rest and we got on like a house on fire!
52
During this time we hope to start sharing our knowledge and experience with other female divers, both those joining
The three of us were joined by another female guest, Maria
us and through materials we will post on social media. I’m
Bollerup, and thankfully we didn't scare her off. She absolute-
pleased to say that our guest list is large already but we al-
ly loved every minute of it and so did we!
ways welcome more new friends
under the ceiling
Photo Magnus Määttä Sara
The whole idea of the community we are trying to build is to share our experience, offer support, and hopefully inspire others. Beyond organising trips we also want to work with female divers locally as well as in a group setting.
Photo Jacek Rożycki, Joanna
others. Beyond organising trips we also want to work with female divers locally as well as in a group setting. Our ambition is to grow an ambassador network initially in Europe where we all are, but branching out to other parts of the world is one of our aims. By organizing meetings, try-dives, and instructional courses aimed at women we hope to encourage and inspire more to keep diving and evolving. We want women to come to us.
FUTURE
We recognise the diving industry can be intimidating and
I said at the start that we want to encourage more women into
overwhelming to women these days and in particular the tech
the deeper, darker, colder side of our beloved sport… we want
community is so male dominated, it can feel harder for female
to organise even more trips, host workshops, write in more
divers to step into it, or even know where to begin. There are
publications, and continue posting to social media.
so many of you out there who will be awesome divers and you
Though our main efforts are directed towards women in
might be looking for that last little push, or someone to answer
diving, men are more than welcome and also encouraged
what might feel like an embarrassing question (ever wondered
to join our trips and adventures as we recognise that our
how to use a she-pee or if wearing a nappy is comfortable after
community is not one or the other gender, but we are ONE
240 minutes in the water?!). We are seeking to embed an open
Our plan is to arrange one trip a year, minimum, where
culture that’s seen as inviting to all; there is no such thing as
we come together to explore new places, meet new people
a stupid question. We have all the helping hands and dry gloves
and share our experience with each other. Belgium is our first
ready and waiting
trip for 2022 where we seek to meet other women who share
We want to believe us WOMEN should inspire, help and
the same passion and interest for diving, as well as women
encourage each other in order to be better divers and better
who might be thinking about taking their first steps into the
people in general.
technical world. We don’t yet know where/when the next will
If you are reading this and thinking of joining the Cavettes,
be after this but we hope to build on the success of Tuna in
think no more… Our dry suits are always damp, our fins will
2021 and keep growing our community – all of friends’ voices
never rest, and our home-baked cookies are both tasty and
matter and suggestions are welcomed.
if you find them on a line then you know we’re in that mine!
The whole idea of the community we are trying to build is to share our experience, offer support, and hopefully inspire
Come and join the crazy bunch! See you underwater. Social Media: Instagram – the.cavettes; Facebook – The Cavettes
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wrecks
Trip report
AMOCO MILFORD HAVEN WRECK, ARENZANO, ITALY
MT Haven was a VLCC (Very Large Crude Carrier) – Class
Text and photos KURT STORMS
oil-tanker built as Amoco Milford Haven in 1973. The Haven was incredibly large: 334 m/1,069 ft long with a 51 m/167 ft
After not being able to travel for an extensive period because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we traveled back to Italy. I completed my instructor course – CCR-OC Trimix Instructor – under the supervision of IANTD ITT Paul Lijnen. After a few exciting and heavy days, I can now proudly call myself a fully-fledged IANTD CCR/OC Trimix Instructor.
beam and a displacement tonnage of 110,000 tons. In 1987, it was hit by a missile in the Persian Gulf during the Iran-Iraq War. Extensively refitted in Singapore, it was then sold to ship brokers who leased it to Troodos Shipping. Around 12:30 pm on April 11, 1991, the Haven was unloading a 230,000-ton cargo of crude oil on a floating platform 11 km/7 miles off the coast of Genoa, Italy. Having transferred 80,000 tons, it disconnected from the platform for a routine internal transfer operation to pump oil from two side-holds into a central one. While still loaded with 144,000 tons of crude oil, the ship exploded and caught fire, killing five crew members. As the fire engulfed the ship, flames rose 100 m/328 ft high and, after a series of further explosions, between 30–40,000 tons of oil poured into the sea.
I
fighting a fire which was difficult to access and control. They
support from the two other instructors who also obtained
distributed more than 9 km/6 miles of inflatable barriers
this rank. The course took place on the most beautiful
around the vessel, submerged 1 m/3 ft below the surface,
wreck of the Mediterranean – the MT Haven.
54
The Italian authorities acted quickly with hundreds of men
owe this certification to my good students and help and
to control the spillage.
wrecks
On day two, Italian authorities towed the MT Haven closer to the coast in a bid to reduce the coastal area affected and ease intervention efforts. As the bow slipped beneath the surface, the towing crew passed a steel cable around the rudder, and tugs applied towing pressure. On April 14, the 250 m/820 ft main body sank 1.5 km/1.5 miles from the coast, between Arenzano and Varazze, flooding the Mediterranean with up to 50,000 tons of crude oil, making it the worse oil spill in the Mediterranean. The Haven is also the Mediterranean and Europe’s larg-
The Haven is the Mediterranean and Europe’s largest shipwreck in the sea and lies at a depth of 33 m/108 ft to 83 m/273 ft off the coast of Arenzano.
est shipwreck in the sea and lies at a depth of 33 m/108 ft to 83 m/273 ft off the coast of Arenzano (Genoa). I have been diving on this beautiful and unique wreck for
silt that can turn the water milk-like and trap you. The wreck
the last three years, and I can truly say that I am in love with
is enormous and deep, and you can lose your orientation as
this big baby. But I want to warn every reader – she can be
well as your notion of time and your gas consumption. So, plan
a killer and a dangerous monster for untrained or inatten-
your dive, and dive your plan.
tive divers.
No heroes allowed here: You must be humble and patient
Depending on the day, the current can shift from mild
enough to discover the wreck step by step, piece by piece, and
to strong, and the visibility can change from a perfect
according to your own level of training and experience. The
+30 m/+100 ft to a very poor 5 m/16 ft. Inside the wreck is
250 m/820 ft long main section of the Haven lies peacefully in
a giant labyrinth where one can get lost, like in any cave sys-
an upright position. Part of the superstructure, which originally
tem. There are also sharp metal edges and huge amounts of
reached a depth up to 24 m/79 ft is now gone, and the shallow-
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wrecks
56
wrecks
est part of the entire wreck, the smokestack, now stands at 33 m/108 ft deep. (Note, that a piece of the upper deck was found at 94 m/310 ft by Andrea Bada.) Resting at a depth of 40 m/131 ft, you find the empty wheelhouse, from which Captain Petros Gregorakys from Cypriot, maneuvered the tanker – he later died in the explosion. All the instruments and controls burned away before sinking. Installed on the upper deck, isa memorial plate and statues of the Virgin Mary. You can easily penetrate the steering house by heading down or up the inner stairs. It is also very easy to go up or down the main lift opening that goes through all bridges, or to follow the outside walls. The windows on the side are numerous, but too small for most divers, but every room has a door. There are six different bridges about 23 m/75 ft high with bedrooms, the kitchen, and workrooms. You can pen-
Inside the wreck is a giant labyrinth where one can get lost, like in any cave system.
etrate almost everywhere, but it's a labyrinth – consider it as a cave and use a guideline. From the bridge, technical divers can descend to the deck in the back of the tanker, past the winches, pipes, and valves that are proportional to the size of the ship, and then free fall down to the propeller at 81 m/266 ft. Here, the excessiveness is still striking–the rudder is 20 m/66 ft high and the propeller more than 7 m/23 ft in diameter.
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wrecks
The dark becomes darker as we move under the shadow of the wreck and lose light from the surface. At its maximum depth, the Haven is breathtaking; looking up from this point, she is majestic. The engine room entrance is just under the chimney below – 52 m/171 ft, and from there you can go deep inside the ship. Here, you will find a gigantic 8-cylinder diesel engine. The various steel panels and counters are still in perfect shape and intact. Going up on the port side, there is a huge opening left by one of the two explosions. The gaping hole is so large that it is difficult to comprehend its dimensions, the plates twisted like a broken can. You need to be a technical diver to dive the MT Haven and complete these dives with hypoxic gasses. As always, don’t do this dive without proper training. There are two dive centers that can provide all of your supplies for diving the Haven. Both are in the Marina of Arenzano. Organization is perfect, and safety non-negotiable. There is a fixed deco station with decompression bars at 6 m/20 ft and 3 m/10 ft with sufficient spare tanks. The descent lines are fixed and lead you down to the quarterback at – 33 m/108 ft. Enjoy your dive! Divers: Kurt Storms, Willem Verrycken
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PERFECTDIVER
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59
planet earth
Long-tailed ducks COLD-LOVING DIVERS
Text and photos WOJCIECH JAROSZ
In Polish, the term "lodówka" is definitely more often used to name a white cooling device, that is a fridge. However, the “lodówka” from the title is not an electrically powered device for lowering the temperature of the environment, but a wonderful effect of the natural evolution of living organisms, it is a duck.
er ducks. As a rule, they search for food at shallow depths, but they can regularly dive up to 60 m below the sea surface (and some experts say even deeper). There is no need to make the reader aware that at these depths you usually can't see much, but they can still find something to eat thanks to their senses. In their diving they
T
his species of duck, however, has
up to several million birds fly here every
are underwater more often than on the
something in common with a re-
year! This makes long-tailed ducks the
surface. They spend three times more
frigerator, because it copes quite
most numerous species of all sea ducks
time on underwater culinary tourism
wintering in the Baltic Sea.
than on floating on the sea waves. The
well with the cold, after all, ”lodówka”
60
differ from other ducks also in that they
(Clangula hyemalis), according to its name,
When looking at ”lodówki”, it is good
target of their frequent dives are most
is a bird of cold waters. They spend the
to know that they are completely unique
often molluscs, but they also eat crusta-
breeding season in the distant tundra
birds. On the pages of the Perfect Diver
ceans and other small invertebrates, not
of Eurasia and North America. Fortu-
magazine we need to start off with de-
despising from time to time, some plants.
nately, we don't have to travel that far to
scribing their underwater exploits! Long-
When they have choice, they prefer to "or-
see them. Long-tailed ducks (“lodówka”
tailed ducks are the only ducks that use
der" mussels in a saltwater, underwater
is called like that in English) come to us
wings when diving (although the main
restaurant. Their good taste applies not
when the water in the North gets frozen,
underwater propulsion are legs with feet
only to gastronomic matters, because it
making the Baltic Sea the most important
armed with membranes). This ability al-
also manifests itself in relation to their
wintering site in Europe (and not only) -
lows them to dive much deeper than oth-
feathered apparel.
planet earth
How do you identify long-tailed ducks among other sea ducks? The most distinctive features that enable species identification are found in males. Birds have it that males are usually more interesting and impressive in their plumage and colouring (as I have had the pleasure to prove many times in my previous bird stories, the ugly sex in birds is not the one marked with the Mars symbol). Among these features, a fancy tail formed by strongly elongated tail feathers comes to the fore. There is a reason why the English name of the species is long-tailed duck. The colouration of the male is also chic, as the distinguished blacks and whites are accompanied by fawn colours. However, it must be added that it is highly variable and in a rather unique way. The complicated nature of long-tailed ducks’ moulting leads to three different coats (not counting the so-called transitional forms). The one described above and visible in the photos is the winter coat. Such long-tailed ducks can be observed on the Baltic Sea. The spring coat is distinctly different, when the male has a blackish-brown front with white sides and a reddish pattern on top. Only a few weeks the ducks wear the so-called autumn coat, when a dark spot on the side of the head is noticeable, the eye area is light, and the crown is black. In each coat, the male long-tailed ducks have a stylish black and pink beak. Young birds resemble females in colouration. Long-tailed females also change their "dress" as a result of moulting, but these
close in sea harbours or, for example,
tional Union for Conservation of Nature
changes are not as conspicuous as in the
near the pier in Sopot. If you manage to
(IUCN). In the Polish legislation they are
case of male representatives of the spe-
spot a flock of long-tailed ducks, you will
also under species protection. The main
cies. The differences in colouration can
probably also be able to hear their inter-
threats to the birds are entanglement in
often be seen directly comparing males
esting and unique voices. Between dives
fishing nets, contact with petroleum sub-
and females, since long-tailed ducks are
they call each other in a very character-
stances, and hunting, as there are coun-
very sociable birds and are often found in
istic way, which allows them to maintain
tries around the world where long-tailed
large flocks. On the Polish coast, you can
contact in the group.
ducks are shot at.
observe them as much as you want, in
Long-tailed ducks are still abundant,
So when you are at the seaside, in
the Gdansk Bay, e.g. in the Vistula mouth,
but they are categorised as vulnerable
the cold season, look out for the amaz-
but also in the western part of the coast
or high-risk (VU, an acronym for vul-
ing divers on the surface of the water
it is not difficult to come across them. If
nerable) by specialised conservation
– beautiful long-tailed ducks, while it is
you are lucky, you can observe them up
organizations, including the Interna-
still possible.
PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
61
knowledge
A woman’s view ON DIVING
Text ALEKSANDRA ŁYSEK
Photos EDITORIAL TEAM
For five years, I’ve been working at a diving center and a diving store where I also advise divers or divers-to-be on the choice of equipment.
62
P
eople laugh at me, like: what,
my husband said this one would be OK
a woman? I ask each customer
for me”, “my diving professional told
tons of questions, but I’m doing it
me so”, not paying attention to whether
to get to understand their needs to the
a piece of equipment feels good, com-
maximum extent possible and make
fortable, but also feminine.
sure I choose such equipment for them
Properly selected equipment, com-
that they would always want to buy only
bined with the appropriate knowledge
from me. It surprises me that men are
and experience – these three aspects af-
more eager to answer my questions,
fect not only the diver’s safety, but also
whereas women tend to say: “because
their well-being and mental comfort.
knowledge
In the previous issue, we could see diving women from a man’s point of view. Today, I’d like to tell you what does it look like from a perspective of a WOMAN – a regulator service engineer, equipment advisor and divemaster. WELL-FITTED GEAR As I already mentioned, women mostly rely on men’s knowledge/suggestions.
We need to bear in mind that no learning is going to be efficient and no experience valuable, if the equipment we dive with is not providing us with safety, comfort and well-being.
I feel like they were too self-conscious to ask questions, ask for something
ably and be happy with your own looks,
prettier or more feminine – often they
the aspect which should never be forgot-
don’t know such versions even exist.
ten. Come on, we all know diving gear is
When women come to choose a wet-
the sexiest thing you could wear in the
suit for them, it turns out they have
entire world ;)
no idea about some aspects of it. After We learn the basics before we dive for
taking measurements and checking the
BUT SERIOUSLY…
the first time, but the learning process
proper size with the table, I always offer
Nowadays, manufacturing companies
continues throughout our diving career.
several options and, sometimes, several
not only provide their customers with
Each dive is a unique and priceless expe-
sizes, as for example the wetsuit must
maximum functionality or the ability
rience we gather. On the other hand, we
be longer due to beautiful long legs or
to adjust your equipment to whatever
need to bear in mind that no learning is
an oversized wetsuit must be consid-
path you choose to follow, but also to
going to be efficient and no experience
ered to accommodate beautiful large
“customize” it, meaning not only the
valuable, if the equipment we dive with
breasts or wide hips. The ultimate goal
possibility to print whatever text you
is not providing us with safety, comfort
is not to squeeze yourself into a wetsuit
like on your BCD or drysuit but also to
and well-being.
but rather to be able to move comfort-
match the diver’s sex, ensuring an aes-
PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
63
knowledge
thetic look. Modern drysuits are very much different from those from a good few years back. We have waist-cut drysuits – highlighting women’s silhouette,
Diving is not about competing. It’s a buddy sport, so we help each other.
or completely different wing and jacket
re-assemble them in our own way, which does not mean we are worse in some topics or need special treatment. The diving world is full of female technical
harnesses – specially profiled for the
idea why boys were always asking us
divers who are great in what they are
breasts, so that nothing pinches or caus-
for notes at school?). Personally, I always
doing and often even better than guys :)
es discomfort. All of this is to ensure that
get stressed with every diving course –
we, women, dive comfortably.
maybe I have little self-confidence – but
EXPERIENCE ACCUMULATED
Dear ladies, the diving worlds
I come 100% prepared and I presume
We gain experience with each dive.
is changing for us as well! Since there is
most of you are the same. I’m not afraid
Sometimes it takes more time than we
a possibility to use “female” versions of
to ask questions if something is unclear
would like it to, because of work, home,
diving equipment, you just have to use it!
to me, if I don't understand something
family, kids, millions of other circum-
Don’t be too shy to ask for colors, patch-
or I’m not completely satisfied with the
stances that make our time scandalously
es, cuts, lines; do not avoid talking about
message. Curiosity is just a part of wom-
lengthy… but eyes on the prize!
your breasts, bum or hips. Remember:
en’s nature… so is contrariness – after
We often feel stressed, anxious, dis-
the fact that men do not have even the
all, we can’t be worse than men :) This
oriented or even helpless, but all this put
slightest idea about certain topics does
is beautiful, smart and responsible and
together also enhances our experience,
not make these irrelevant! Do care to
there is nothing to be ashamed of.
teaching us in particular how to deal
feel underwater not like a diver, but a DIVERESS :)
64
technical issues down to the basics and
During trips and training I’ve noticed that ladies are more thorough than
with diverse situations not mentioned in manuals.
men. If all equipment elements need to
Don’t forget you are not alone.
APPROPRIATE KNOWLEDGE
be secured, they really are. There is no
A heavy cylinder, jacket with weights –
There is no need to hide the fact that
“dangling”, nothing left for later and, of
do not feel uncomfortable to ask men
women are great divers! It has been
course, women are far less likely to be
for help. I keep doing it in my worse mo-
known for a long time that we learn
looking for any lost equipment. I also
ments and, besides the fact that I was
completely differently from men (any
noticed that we need to break down
never said “no”, I even notice it gives
ADVERTISEMENT
them a kick. We don’t have to be
ing vast knowledge, appropriate expe-
Wonder Women. We are physically
rience and unconstricting, well-fitting
weaker than men by design. Being
and safe equipment. A well-fitting
tenacious and stubborn as in “I’ll do it
wing harness and a tailored drysuit
myself”, “I don’t need no one”, “Fake
will let you breathe a full breast ;)
it till you make it” does not do any
The color of the mask does not
good – we only get anxious, stressed
matter – it only needs to fit well and
and worried about being inferior.
have reinforced glass. Nowadays,
And for what? Diving is not about
even full bladder issues do not limit
competing. It’s a buddy sport, so we
you anymore. Now, not only men are
help each other.
able to use a relief valve underwater
We gather experience and share it
POTRZEBUJESZ KUPUJESZ NURKUJESZ
– we can do it as well.
with other divers. If you were taught
Dear ladies, girls, baby girls! The
by a great diving professional, with
world of diving is wide open for us –
a fantastic approach – let your male
seize the moment! We only need to
and female friends know; they will be
know what we want and what we are
happy to follow your referral. If you
doing, as a conscious diver is a safe
visited a shop where you were wise-
diver! …and if, apart from that, we
ly advised on equipment selection –
can look and feel sexy, then… what
spread the word! I’m sure both men
are you waiting for?
women and men will make use of it. If you would like to talk about divTECHNICAL DIVING IS ALSO FOR
ing equipment, you’re more than wel-
WOMEN!
come to reach out. I’m available for
If you want to be technical divers,
you all the time. You’ll find me offline
you’re more than welcome. But re-
in the Nurkersi Diving Center in Łódź
member, this is a steep path, requir-
or online on szpejownia.com.
ładnie i funkcjonalnie dla nurków PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
65
tips & curiosities ACADEMY
Scuba cylinder valves INTRODUCTION AND THEIR IMPACT ON A DIVER’S ACTIONS Text WOJCIECH A. FILIP
Photo Tomasz Płociński
In some cases, the only thing a beginner diver would know about the cylinder valve is that you need to open it when you start your dive and close it when you finish. For a diver with a DPV in a cave, a more important thought might be whether cutting the right valve knob after hitting a protruding rock will cause the valve to leak. Can a cylinder valve affect the diver’s position underwater? …or can it affect narcosis?
E 66
for a dive: you need to open the valve to check your gear. The next moment when the valve comes into play is when we finish diving – you need to close the valve to disassemble your gear. Is there any reason for us to know more about scuba cylinder valves? This article will be divided into 3 shorter texts, with something interesting for each and everyone.* To start with, let’s pick the most convenient set of information: for simplicity, they will be marked as A, B, C. A. I’m not interested in cylinder valves – if I need to know anything about them, let it be the bare minimum. B. I’m using several valves on each dive – I’m interested in learning more than just how to open and how to close it. C. I know that details matter. I prefer configuring my gear
very cylinder has a valve of some kind – we usually asso-
on my own in a way that would increase the comfort
ciate it with the moment when we are getting prepared
and safety of my dives.
tips
& curiosities
ACADEMY
Photo Bartek Trzciński
A. (reading time for the entire article: around 30 seconds)
If you travel and do even complex dives on rented cylinders, you should check your valves’ operation – see details at the end of part B.
Do you have your own cylinder? — No, I don’t.
LET’S HAVE A CLOSER LOOK AT THE INFLUENCE OF THE
Ask your instructor to explain how to open and close the cyl-
VALVE ON DIVER’S ACTIONS
inder valve. — Yes, I have one!
Single cylinder or a twinset on your back
Ask your instructor to explain how to open and close the cyl-
1. Position
inder valve.
The location of the valves behind the diver’s head has direct
Valves require maintenance, just like regulators. Have your
influence on the diver’s position underwater.
cylinder maintained, asking for a full service of the valves once
Start each trimming exercise from achieving a completely
a year and each time you experience any issues with opening
relaxed position, where you can move your head freely all
or closing a valve. Any gas leakage, bubbles near the valve
the way up and back. In order to do so, you need to move
knob or the connection between the valve and the cylinder
your valves as low as possible.
also indicate that the valve requires repair.
You will find the details on preparing your gear setup in
B. (reading time for the entire article: around 4 minutes)
Perfect Diver magazine issues no. 7, 8, 9 and 10. 2. Reduced ventilation If your cylinder valves are placed too high, they may, together with your regulators, limit your ability to breathe
For advanced divers (B): assume that each cylinder (also your
freely. Being unable to exhale freely (lowered head, partially
argon system) requires annual valve maintenance. The valve
closing the respiratory tract) results in consistent increase
is opened and closed multiple times: before, during and after
of CO2 in our body, which leads not only to increased gas
a dive; we tend to carry the cylinder holding it by the valve; the valve knob often gets hit during transport to the dive site – this
consumption but also enhances the narcotic effect. 3. Movement and maneuvering techniques
should suffice as a reason to take care of your valve’s technical
Fatigue when learning to move and maneuver, as well as
condition before it refuses to cooperate.
ascending instead of moving backwards are two most com-
PERFECTDIVER
No. 2(20)/2022
67
tips & curiosities ACADEMY
Photo Mariusz Czajka
mon signals that should encourage you to have a few photos
the front, looking at the horizontal diver’s position. Add to
or videos taken, starring yourself. Ask a friend to take a few
it a twinset that is excessively high on your back and you
close-ups on the position of your valves against your head –
know why you have to struggle to maintain a horizontal
this is the best way to verify whether they rest on your head
position throughout the dive or look like some technical
or are positioned close to it.
divers, resembling a horse. 2. Moving backwards with full stage cylinders. Valves with an excessively high profile on stage cylinders are
NOTE!
a pain especially during fine maneuvers (e.g. when revers-
You might think that only extremely low positioned valves are the
ing), constantly turning the diver with their legs upwards.
right and safe solution. This is not true. First of all, valves cannot
Placing your left forearm on the valves and pushing them
block free movement of the diver’s head, which should lean a bit
slightly backwards might be a solution, at the same time
to the back during the entire dive. But valves must also remain
minimizing the rocking of the stage cylinders forward and
within the diver’s reach, so that they could open and close them
backward.
freely during the dive. End of part B or how to check your valve in a rented cylinder: Stage cylinders 1. Diver’s position For stage cylinders, the lower the valve body profile – the better. These of course require proper positioning of the stage regulators (low profile valves require the short HP hose to be place differently), but in return they limit the diver’s overweighing to the front. On average, each regulator with a valve weighs around 1 kilogram. If you strap
68
— am I able to screw the regulator into the valve and screw it out easily YES/NO — am I able to open the valve easily when my hands are cold YES/NO — am I able to close the valve easily when my hands are cold YES/NO — are there gentle bubbles at the joint between the argon cylinder and the valve when put into water YES/NO
2 stages on the front, the resulting imbalance will effectively
any of the above, if answered “NO” (with the exception of the
ruin your position. High profile valves combined with heavy
argon cylinder), means you need to replace the cylinder/set
regulators work just like moving your weight upwards or to
against one with properly functioning valves.
tips
& curiosities
ACADEMY
er to lower their head and keep it low (partially blocking the respiratory tract) while operating the valve. 2x15, 2x18 and 2x20 sets have a wider valve distance, yielding more space for a hand in a dry gloves with rings to operate the separator valve. Additionally, greater cylinder diameter moves the valves away from your head, which provides enough space to keep your head up while operating the separator which in the case of those twinset types will work better in the position towards the head. Formally: The valve should close with more than two full turns – this protects it from being rapidly closed accidentally when in contact with the ceiling (so-called left valve roll-off). Technically: Valve seals (o-rings) should have the hardness of 90Sh. This is particularly important if the valve spindle is butt sealed. A “gummy”, stretchy movement of the valve may be a sign of a wrong seal used or its wear. Separator o-rings prevent leakage of the gas from between the cylinders, at the same time allowing separator operation (the pressure load is only on one of 2, sometimes 3 o-rings used at this site). Practically: It is very rare to hit the separator knob against the ceiling, and it seldom results in failure, even when hitting the right or left Photo Tomasz Płociński
valve knob, due to the diver’s low pace. This is different when
There should be no bubbles in any cylinder, but those supplying drysuits are often neglected in the detailed inspection. However, even a slight “steaming” instead of clear bubbles may empty our argon cylinder. What does it mean to open and close a valve easily? The valve should operate smoothly from one limit position to the other, turning without jamming, not requiring tightening it with force to close it completely or struggling to open it.
C. (reading time for the entire article: around 90 seconds)
It is obvious that fitting valves to different diving cylinders and their operation during diving has a great impact on solving emergencies and maintaining diving comfort. Configurations: Twinset valves. 2x10, 2x12 and some 2x7 sets have the same valve distance. In such sets, the separator knob should be positioned in the direction opposite to your head. This allows to freely operate the valve versus the “towards the head” position, where the separator is located between the regulators, requiring the div-
Photo Mariusz Czajka
69
tips & curiosities ACADEMY
Photo Bartek Trzciński
the dynamic contact happens when on a DPV. If the diver is
CONCLUSION
assaulted by a malicious cave, the left or right valve knob may
Diving experience also increases gear awareness. It would
bend (spindle deformation), resulting in inability to operate the
be good if our understanding of the equipment we are using
valve. In particularly aggressive caves, such contact may end
reached beyond theory. Your growing appetite for deeper and
with shearing the valve knob off, usually not causing a leak,
more complex dives should translate into understanding how
but with a bit of unluck and a preceding roll-off, you may end
equipment works and how can it be used. It is no less import-
up with the left regulator supply cut off.
ant to anticipate the behavior of your equipment in extreme, unfavorable situations, e.g. when the equipment is not working
WHAT A LONG ARTICLE ON VALVES… Its length changes with the your perspective on cylinder valves
properly. Properly devised practical training should follow. Various diver training associations use similar, but possibly differing in details, valve operating procedures. Therefore, if
There could be yet another part to the article, as I did not mention what valve to choose for a single cylinder, whether an extension valve is better than a “T” valve or whether it is worth buying 300-bar valves instead of 230-bar ones. …and what about the knobs, because there are plastic, rubber and even fluorescent ones?
anything in this text is not in line with what your instructor said, consult with him what you have read. It might happen that overloaded training programs, with their weekend schedules, won’t allow for covering the topics concerning operating the equipment on a stress-free level in detail.
In the context of technical divers, we did not say anything
If you want to know more, you're welcome to join Tecline
about the “burst disc”, how our valves get along with the com-
Academy seminars and workshops to extend your knowledge
pressor guy or would the valve “syphon” keep the water from
and skills concerning diving gear.
the cylinder away from our gear. If you find this topic worth a follow-up, let us know on Perfect Diver social media channels!
https://teclinediving.eu/tecline-academy/#/
70
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