Winter is so good that many divers enjoy the opportunity to do diving under the ice. Usually poor summer visibility shows what winter can be like. Ice diving is all about preparation, the right course and safety. Dominik Dopierała wrote about it in a very practical and detailed way.
And continuing the topic of safety – be careful while using swivel adapters for the first and second stage at the same time. Why? This is explained very well by Wojtek A. Filip in the article at the end of this issue.
It's New Year's Eve, and since not everyone likes cold water, we suggest where to go. There's amazing Panama – did you know that it is possible to dive there and what a dive it is! I am glad that Piotr Adamiak let himself get persuaded to prepare this material for you. In addition, after a 3-year break, Mauritius returns to our pages with great material prepared by Anthony Leydet.
Dominika Abrahamczyk, making her debut as the Author, tells the story of incredibly interesting, beautiful and at the same time wild Lanzarote. Taking advantage of the invitation of the Bonito Diving Lanzarote Diving Centre for the second time, we went on an editorial expedition to dive in the Atlantic and absorb the rays of the November sun in air temperatures between 28 and 32 degrees C.
In addition, there are beautiful photos and descriptions of dives at all levels of the opal mine. Why is it so colourful and is the whole diving there so nice, easy and enjoyable? Przemek Zyber will tell us all about it
And another debut of this issue (at least in Poland), Sebastian and Patrycja Popek bring us closer to what it looks like under the ceiling underwater in Tuna. Mariusz Czajka illustrates this report with photographs.
There are also, of course, more interesting topics, such as eating and drinking underwater; or diving in the UK, in a small reservoir. Using the pen of Isadora Abuter Grebe, not only do we mention wrecks as artificial reefs, but also we wonder whether wrecks can and should be a refuge for marine fauna and flora.
There are also birds presented in flowerful language by Wojtek Jarosz and other substantive diving topics – debuts for those who want to dive but are afraid of, or do not know yet that they want to, as well as another material by Dobrochny Didłuch about children's diving.
I would like to invite you to a professionally prepared feast of this year's first issue of Perfect Diver Magazine. It can be purchased in PDF or in paper version.
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PLANET EARTH EVENTS
Underwater
Wojciech Zgoła
Karolina Sztaba
Anna Metrycka reklama@perfectdiver.com
Agnieszka Gumiela-Pająkowska Arleta Kaźmierczak
Reddo Translations Sp. z o.o. Piotr Witek
Lawyer Joanna Wajsnis Brygida Jackowiak-Rydzak
(Julieta Ulanovsky), Open Sans (Ascender Fonts) Noto Serif, Noto Sans (Google)
www.wieland.com.pl
Passionate about diving and pure nature. He likes to say that he travels by diving. He learned to swim when he was less than 6 years old. At the age of 15, he obtained a yacht sailor's license and has been diving since 2006. He has completed over 800 dives in various regions of the world. He wrote and published many articles.
Co-author of photo exhibitions. An advocate of leaving the place of residence clean and unblemished. Diving promoter. Since 2008 he has been running his own website www.dive-adventure.eu Based on extensive experience, in 2018 he created the new Perfect Diver Magazine, which has been successfully published regularly every two months in Polish and English for over 4 years.
A graduate of geography at the University of Wrocław, an incorrigible optimist... permanently with a smile on her lips I have been diving since 2002, which is more than half of my life I started diving in Polish waters, to which I willingly return during the year – and it gives me great pleasure! :) I must have come to Activtour by destiny and I have stayed here for good... for over 10 years! I am passionate about fulfilling people's dreams by preparing diving trips around the world! Personally – I fly and dive in different seas and seas whenever I can, because it is one of the loves of my life Since the beginning of the existence of the PD magazine, I have been transferring my memories of diving trips to paper, sharing my passion with others and I can't stop writing ;) 2023 permanently in the PD editorial office – hoping to bring her some "fresh blood" ;) A diving dream come true: Galapagos! Still ahead of me… Antarctica! If I don't dive, I choose skiing, tennis or strong rock sounds! ;) The motto that I really like is: "Be realistic – start dreaming"! :) anna@activtour.pl; www.activtour.pl;
A traveller and a photographer of wild nature. A graduate of journalism and a lover of good literature. She lives in harmony with nature, promotes a healthy lifestyle: she is a yogini and a vegetarian. Also engaged in ecological projects. Sharks and their protection are especially close to her heart. She writes about the subject in numerous articles and on her blog www.blog.dive-away.pl. She began her adventure with diving fifteen years ago by total coincidence. Today she is a diving instructor, 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.
PRZEMYSŁAW ZYBER
My adventure with photography began long before I started diving. From the very first dive I dreamed that I would be accompanied by a camera. As I became more adept at diving, my photography gear evolved as well. From a simple gopro camera through a compact and SLR camera to a full-frame mirrorless camera. Now I can't imagine diving without a camera. I have the impression that underwater photography gives meaning to my diving. www.facebook.com/przemyslaw.zyber www.instagram.com/przemyslaw_zyber/ www.deep-art.pl
KAROLA TAKES PHOTOS
Karolina Sztaba, and professionally Karola Takes Photos, is a photographer by education and passion. She is currently working at the Trawangan Dive Center on a tiny island in Indonesia – Gili Trawangan, where she moved to live four years ago. She photographs above and below the water. In addition, she creates photographic projects against littering the oceans and polluting our planet with plastic ("Trapped", "Trashion"). She cooperates with NGO organizations dealing with environmental protection and actively participates 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.
LAURA KAZIMIERSKA
Laura Kazimierska is currently working as PADI Course Director at TrawanganDive Center on the Indonesian island of Gili Trawangan. Founder of the Divemastergilis portal. www.divemastergilis.com @divemastergilis For over 7 years she has lived and discovered the underwater world of Indonesia. She is not only an avid technical diver, but also the face of the Planet Heroes platform and the ambassador of the Ocean Mimic brand. She actively contributes to the promotion of the protection of corals and the natural environment of fish and marine animals by taking part in scientific projects, campaigns against ocean littering and cooperating with NGOs in Indonesia. @laura_kazi
SYLWIA KOSMALSKA-JURIEWICZ
WOJCIECH ZGOŁA
ANNA METRYCKA
He has been diving for 35 years. He has spent more than 16,000 hours underwater, most of them diving technically. He has been an instructor and mentor instructor for many organizations including CMAS, GUE, IANTD, PADI. He co-created the training programs for some of them. He is a professional with vast knowledge and practical experience. He has participated in many diving projects as a leader, explorer, initiator or speaker. He was the first Pole to dive the HMHS Britannic wreck (117m). He was the first to explore the deep part of the Glavas Cave (118m). He made a series of dives documenting the wreck of ORP GROM (110m). He has documented deep (100-120m) parts of flooded mines. He is the creator and designer of many equipment solutions to improve diving safety.
Technical Director at Tecline, where, among other things, he manages the Tecline Academy a research and training facility. Author of several hundred articles on diving and books on diagnosis and repair of diving equipment.
He dives in rivers, lakes, caves, seas and oceans all over the world.
He has been diving forever, he does not remember his first dives. The only thing he remembers is that diving has always been his passion. He spent his entire childhood on Polish lakes, which he still prefers to distant destinations. With great success, he turned his passion into a way of life and business. Curiosity of the world and constant striving for perfection are the main features that definitely hinder him in life. Professional diving instructor, photographer, filmmaker.
Creator of the DECO Diving Center, PADI Course Director, TecTrimix Instructor Trainer TECREC.
A diver since 2007. I always choose holiday destinations by asking myself: okay, but is there anywhere to dive?. Underwater photography is still new to me, but with each dive I learn something new.
"From the moment of birth, man carries the weight of gravity on his shoulders [...], but he only has to dive under the surface of the water and becomes free" –J.Y.Cousteau
A graduate of the Poznań University of Technology, financier, the auditor. A diver fascinated by theory diving – physics and physiology. In love passionate about history in underwater archaeology Ancient Rome, active Centurion in the group reconstructionist Bellator Societas (Rome I century BC). He dreams of attending at least once underwater archaeological research a then describe everything in a series of columns.
It can be found as often as under water in Japan, whose culture and history he has been fascinated by nearly three decades.
A graduate of two Poznan universities, the Academy of Physical Education (coaching specialization – 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 implementing research, pushing laboriously in the right direction of the stroller called science. In his free time he spends his time actively – his main passions are sailing (sea helmsman), skiing (downhill skiing instructor), riding a motorcycle, recreational diving and many other activities, as well as photography, mainly nature.
Zoopsychologist, researcher and expert in dolphin behavior, committed to the idea of protecting dolphins and fighting against keeping them in dolphinariums. Passionate about Red Sea and underwater encounters with large pelagic predators. Member of the Dolphinaria-Free Europe Coalition, volunteer of the Tethys Research Institute and Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit, collaborator of Marine Connection. For over 15 years, he has been participating in research on wild dolphin populations, auditing dolphinariums, and monitoring the quality of whale watching cruises. As the head of the "Free & Safe" project (formerly "NO! for a dolphinarium"), he prevents keeping dolphins in captivity, promotes ethical whale & dolphin watching, trains divers in responsible swimming with wild dolphins, and popularizes knowledge about dolphin therapy that is passed over in silence or hidden by profit-making centers. on this form of animal therapy.
WOJCIECH A. FILIP
ŁUKASZ METRYCKI
DOMINIK DOPIERAŁA
MICHAŁ CZERNIAK
JAKUB BANASIAK
WOJCIECH JAROSZ
Better known as Wąski Professionally, the main health and safety specialist, fire protection inspector and first aid instructor. Privately, husband and father of his daughter. A member of the Bellator Societas, where he is called St. Marcin, because every year he plays the character during the name day of the street on November 11 in Poznań. Of course, for many years an avid diver. He loves technical diving, especially those on wrecks and everything related to activity above and below water :)
„Kindness” entire adult life, as her friends call her, is professionally related to diving. She has been diving every day for over ten years as a professional PADI diving instructor, working and running diving centers in Egypt. Extremely meticulous and pedantic about safety. Specializes in training children, teenagers and women. It's impossible to miss her because she dresses her pink lifestyle in this color underwater. An accountant by education and second profession, in private she is the mother of two "terrorists". Co-owner of the DECO Diving Center.
For Tomek, diving has always been his greatest passion. He started his adventure at the age of 14, developing into a recreational and technical diving instructor, a first aid instructor and a diving industry technician. Currently, he runs the 5* COMPASS DIVERS Pobiedziska Diving Center near Poznań, where he passes his knowledge and skills to beginners and advanced divers, which gives him great joy and satisfaction from being part of their underwater adventure...
Enthusiastic diver, scientist, and wildlife conservationist. Isadora is researching the biological significance on shipwrecks for marine ecosystems. Driven by curiosity, she wants to learn about nature, as well as “how to become a better diver”. Being still in the beginnings of her diving-career she is enjoying the path of overcoming obstacles by learning from more experienced divers, using adequate configuration and practicing. @isa_diving_nature
Zodiac Libra. Enthusiast of a healthy lifestyle, fond of active leisure. Lover of the underwater world and underwater photography. HR employee, and after hours SDI diving instructor, Vital Mentor, Diet coach. Thanks to her passion for psychology, working with people and the ability to listen, she knows that everything starts in the head. He highly values the ability to communicate without words underwater. Water helped her discover completely unknown mobility possibilities, and overcoming her own limitations, as well as learning something new in the natural environment, in the context of communing with nature, helped her rebuild her mental condition. Author of the website: https://aldonadreger.pl and https://wellbeingproject.pl
Partner of the diving school: https://wewelldiving.pl
ALDONA DREGER
DOBROCHNA DIDŁUCH
PIOTR KOPEĆ
TOMASZ KULCZYŃSKI
ISADORA ABUTER GREBE
Infected with passion for diving by Perfect Diver. He shyly expands his skills. Definitely thermophilic :) Favorite dives are those with lots of animals! Curious about diving medicine. Professionally, she has a Master of Science in Nursing – instrumentalist.
Professionally, I am a long-term practitioner in the field of human resources management with 25 years of experience in renowned corporations, 8 years in Singapore. I have also lived and worked in Europe and the USA. For many years I have been passionate about psychology and psychotherapy, the problems of professional burnout and coping with change. I completed postgraduate studies in psychotherapy and obtained a Professional Diploma in Psychotherapy from The School of Positive Psychology in Singapore.
He started his diving adventure when he was in high school, becoming passionate about both wreck diving and underwater photography. As a co-founder of the Ghost Diving Poland Association, he is actively involved in activities to protect the marine ecosystem and raise public awareness of the importance of our seas and oceans. www.instagram.com/mariusz.czajka/
Diver and technical instructor with almost 30 years of experience. Active Instructor Trainer Trimix in RAID. He made over 6,000 dives, the vast majority of which were wreck and technical dives. Organizer and participant of many wreck expeditions, including: he took part in expeditions to the wrecks of Wilhelm Gustloff, Graf Zeppelin and Mühlhausen, organized an expedition to the wreck of the ORP Grom ship on the 70th anniversary of the sinking, was a participant in the project to explore the flooded Tuna Hästberg mine, at a depth of over 114 meters, and many others throughout Europe.
Aquarius by birth. Underwater photography enthusiast. Sailor, lover of underwater archeology and wreck diving. TDI SDI diving instructor. Professionally, he builds housing estates and holiday homes. Partner of the diving school: https://wewelldiving.pl
Based in Marseille on the Mediterranean, Anthony Leydet is a french underwater photographer, blogger, and writer, published worldwide in diving magazines. www.zesea.com @anthonyleydet_uw_photography
For various reasons, she no longer dives, but she is still close to divers and diving, GRALmarine is father Bartek, brother Konrad and Patrycja. Privately, she is an avid cyclist.
Always a traveler, since 2017 a diver. He dived for the first time in Menjangan National Park in Bali. The underwater world fascinated him so much that he started traveling to dive. Divemaster after course and internship at Utila Dive Center in Honduras. He did his previous courses in strange places: OWD on Rarotonga, AOWD on the Canary Islands El Hierro, only Rescue more typically in the Polish Piechcin. He believes that the most beautiful things he has seen under water are Mexican cenotes. Apart from diving, his great passion is mountains, multi-day trekking and easy climbing. He climbed, among others: in the Peruvian Andes, he climbed a six-thousander in the Himalayas.
Professionally related to IT and design. It ensures that websites, applications and services are more user-friendly than the PADI application.
DOMINIKA ABRAHAMCZYK AGNIESZKA ROMAŃCZUK
ANTHONY LEYDET
JACEK TWARDOWSKI
MARIUSZ CZAJKA
SEBASTIAN POPEK
PATRYCJA POPEK
PIOTR ADAMIAK
Every person who dives in caves and mines knows very well that these are usually dark, gloomy places, practically devoid of colors. Sometimes you can see steel structural elements in the mines, covered with orange-colored rust. While in Mexico's Yucatán caves, the white color of limestone walls is dominant. These forms are of course amazing and very spectacular, even thought they’re rather monochromatic.
I’ve heard about the opal mine in Slovakia recently. As it was closed for scuba divers for quite a long time, nobody considered attempting to explore the underwater tunnels. Only recently have Opal Divers re-opened access for divers to this fascinating place.
If you’re interested in the history of the opal mine, visit its museum website: https://www.slovenskeopalovebane.sk/
You can have fun and explore dry tunnels with your family even without a cave diving certificate. This place is unique and I encourage you to go there for a weekend to discover the world’s oldest opal mine.
LEGENDARY COLORFUL MINE
Upon arrival, the guide Martin takes us into the mine and shows us the path that we need to use to carry our the equipment. Wearing a helmet is mandatory before entering. At some points, the tunnels are narrow and people taller than 180 cm must bend down regularly to avoid head bumps. The mine was adopted for sightseeing, so the tunnels are well-lit.
Every several meters you can see exhibits of historical tools, ladders and equipment used for mining stones. The path splits every now and then, forming a true labyrinth. Since the very beginning, the colors of the walls make an impression. Like in a fairytale land of dwarves, it’s a marvel of colors. The dominant color is yellow, then orange. Sometimes spots of navy blue, light blue and pink pop out. I already know that photos will turn out wonderfully colorful. We reach the end of the tunnel and open a gate. Only cave divers can progress beyond this point. What we see here are... STAIRS! Literally! A hundred and twenty high, slippery and steep stairs separate us from our descent location. We're forced to do at least three return trips to carry all our equipment down. First, I take my SM tanks. Burdened by the weight of 2 tanks, being forced to maintain ultimate focus on slippery stairs makes me feel exhausted. A moment to catch my breath and up again. I start feeling breathless. I load up with a lot of photography gear and lights, heading back for the second trip down the stairs. You really need to take a breather after you exit the pit. A quick coffee, briefing with the guide and the last round, in a dry suit, rebreather on your back and fins in your hands. I can feel sweat dripping down my back. At the bottom of the stairs we have a moment for quick preparation and to catch our breath. Then, only 100 m left, a few stairs and here we are!!!
A small pond, which brings us into a network of tunnels. I rinse my mask, face and... utter surprise. I open my eyes and I feel horrible burning, my eyes are watering. What's happening?
It turns out that we will be diving in acid. Since the opal mine is located in a dormant volcano, sulfur concentration is very high, which results in PH levels reaching 3.2. Diving gear is not harmed by short exposure here. However, it is recommended not to leave tanks immersed overnight, as Martin suggests.
COLORFUL FUN
Finally, we descend into the overhead environment :)
A narrow tunnel leads down to 6 meters and then splits. We dive into the right corridor. It is very narrow and rather low. We
dive through wooden wall and ceiling reinforcements. The wood is stained with white bacteria colonies that detach from the wood at the slightest movement of water and levitate freely.
With each meter, the walls change colors. An incredible abundance of elements instilled in the magma is responsible for the diversified colors shimmering in the light of our torches. It’s incredibly colorful here :) As though we were in a Disney or Pixar movie. Sometimes, the tunnel is bright yellow with a hint of blue, sometimes vivid orange. Once we turn on huge photography lamps, the mine does not look like any other mine I’ve dived in. Shale mines in Germany, near Willingen, are black and dark. The uranium mine in Kowary also sends chills and shivers down your spine with its rigid, dark interior. Kobanya in Budapest, where limestone was mined, is bright with its ever-present white walls.
The opal mine is unlike any of them. It’s incredibly colorful and the tangle of tunnels is so much fun. We often encounter stairs that lead to different levels of the mine.
On the second day we dive to the other side of the first fork, discovering more and more interesting places. OC exhaust air
from other divers remains trapped in the narrow and low tunnels, under the ceiling. It provides additional lighting effects and shines like diamonds. Both dives in the mine will remain in my memory for a long time.
COMING BACK TO HARSH REALITY
It requires a great effort to drag your gear out of the mine. Most divers who came here admit that these were their most beautiful cave dives but they will not come back because of the gear logistics. I totally understand them. I also said that I will not come back.
The next day after coming back home my muscles are sore. I find it hard to walk, not only up the stairs, but in general.
My muscle pain has yet to subside, but I’m already thinking about going back to the fairytale mine. The very same day I start putting together a crew for the next trip! The plan is even more ambitious. We are planning to penetrate deeper levels of the mine. And so...
ONE MONTH LATER...
...here I am, driving to Slovakia, thinking about the photos I'll take. This time we have an additional attraction. The world's covered with 40 cm of snow. In order to get to the mine, we must first get through big chunks of snow.
The dives are as fascinating as before. Unfortunately, some gear problems prevents us from completing 100% of our photography plan.
I definitely want to see all the nooks and crannies of this magical mine, but unfortunately not today. I’m horribly disappointed, I already know that this is not my last visit to the opal mine.
Despite enormous logistical effort, I have to come back here for the third time.
AND ONCE AGAIN...
This way, within only two months, I visited the opal mine three times.
From the very beginning, the odds were in our favor this time. Wonderful weather, great crew and 13 January.
In my case, thirteen is a lucky number, so what can go wrong? ;)
Through a small opening down at 6 m we quickly get to the lowest level of the mine, the so-called level – 40, where the average depth is 35 m. Right from the start, we are welcome by a curtain resembling the sails of the Black Pearl. Ripped, delicate,
shimmering with colors. Our every move may damage this fragile structure. We are very careful not to damage anything. We dive further into the splitting tunnels. We enter larger rooms with rails for wagons that used to carry the excavated material. Rails can only be seen at this level. We can see pillars supporting the ceiling around us, with the rails following the broad arc. A true feast for the eyes.
This time we manage to complete 100% of the plan. Almost 100 minutes of exploring colorful underwater tunnels filled the entire crew with a lot of excitement. The only thing left to do is to take the gear out and we can go back home, immensely satisfied.
SAFETY FIRST
Even though the photos portray the colorful and bright side of this beautiful mine, we need to remember that these are very difficult technical dives. Only people with full cave certificate can visit this place. The water temperature is around 5°C, which demands diving in dry suits with heating systems. Tunnels and stairs often mean changing your dive depth and you have to maintain perfect buoyancy not to stir the water and damage the structure of dripstone formations that have been created here. All those who want to visit the mine in Slovakia need to be prepared for the extreme effort related to diving gear logistics. However, the views you'll get are worth every effort.
COIBA NATIONAL PARK, PANAMA
FROM A PRISON TO A NATIONAL PARK
Text PIOTR ADAMIAK
What comes to mind in Poland when thinking about Panama? For most, it's the Panama Canal, the Panama Papers scandal, or the famous hat. Besides that, not much is known about Panama, and travellers heading in that direction often choose nearby Costa Rica.
However, Panama has so much to offer! From the extraordinary capital, through the beautiful Caribbean coast of Bocas del Toro, the San Blas archipelago, the mountains and cloud forests of Boquete, to the Pacific side, which offers ex-
cellent conditions for diving and surfing. During my month-long journey through Panama, I found myself in the town of Santa Catalina, a gateway to Coiba National Park. I planned to stay there for a few days but ended up staying there for over two weeks. But let's take it step by step…
PANAMA
One great advantage of Panama is that you can quickly reach it from Poland. After a dozen hours of flight with one transfer, you land in Panama City. Instead of immediately heading to the province, it's better to stay for a moment to explore the city of contrasts, combining the colonial architecture of Casco Viejo with the modern district of glass skyscrapers. Panama, with a dose of common sense, is a safe, well-developed, and hassle-free country. People are friendly, transportation works very well,
Photo Panama Dive Center, Coiba
and the stores are well-stocked. It's definitely a good country for a first trip to Latin America.
SANTA CATALINA
Santa Catalina, located on the Pacific coast about 350 km southwest of the capital, was until recently a sleepy fishing village. It has retained much of its original character, and mass tourism has not reached here yet. Locals live at a peaceful pace, fishing, strolling through the streets, and spending evenings with neighbours in front of their homes. The nearest ATM or doctor is 70 km away, so when heading to Santa Catalina, it's essential to bring cash and stay healthy! On-site, you can find several small hotels and guesthouses, a few bars and restaurants, two stores, several dive centres, and surfing schools. And on top of that, there's the stunning and wild nature, beautiful beaches, the Pacific, and the nearby Coiba National Park.
COIBA NATIONAL PARK
Coiba National Park encompasses 38 islands in the Chiriqui Gulf and the surrounding waters. It owes its name to the largest of the islands (Isla Coiba), which until 2004 was a maximum-secu-
rity penal colony. The prison has a grim reputation in Panama; during the reigns of dictators Omar Torrijos and Manuel Noriega (1968-1989), it was a place of torture and forced labour for political opponents. The fate of Isla Coiba led to restricted access for many years, minimizing human impact on the natural environment. Nature could thrive, and the place became unique on a global scale. This prompted Panamanian authorities to declare it a national park, and UNESCO recognized it as a world heritage site. The National Park is now accessible only to a strictly limited number of operators offering cruises and diving expeditions. This meant that we were usually the only boat at the dive site, with no crowds in sight!
DIVING PARTNERS
In Santa Catalina, we dived with the Panama Dive Centre. We couldn't have made a better choice. It's a small dive centre with a family atmosphere. The whole team is professional yet friendly and laid-back. I appreciated both the well-planned dives and the sense of humour and good atmosphere. The dive sites are a bit distant from Santa Catalina, and it takes about 60 minutes by boat to reach them. We dived three times a day, and between
Photo Sabina Schreck, Ranchería
Photo Panama Dive Center, Estero
Photo Sabina Schreck, Whaleshark
Photo Sabina Schreck, Whitetip
dives, we spent time on beautiful, deserted islands in the national park, full of lush vegetation and exotic birds.
UNDERWATER EXPERIENCE
And what's under the water? Coiba National Park offers over 30 diverse dive sites around the islands of Coiba, Rancheria, Canales, and the Contreras archipelago. Among them are sites suitable for beginner divers as well as more ambitious ones that require experience with stronger currents. The islands of Coiba National Park are part of an underwater chain (the so-called coconut chain) running from the famous Galapagos through Cocos Island to the coasts of Panama. This entire area is almost untouched by humans. In Coiba National Park alone, 760 different fish species are protected.
The waters around Coiba are surrounded by one of the largest coral reefs on the Pacific coast of both Americas, and the Indo-Pacific current flowing through the Chiriqui Gulf makes the ocean teem with life. In addition to a variety of reef fish, you can find different species of rays, barracuda colonies, trevallies, snappers, amberjacks, dolphins, and marlins. However, the waters around Coiba are particularly rich in turtles and reef sharks, which we encountered in wholesale quantities on every dive. It's no wonder that all dive centres in Santa Catalina display signs saying "sharks guaranteed." With a bit of luck, you can also encounter larger animals: humpback whales, sperm
whales, orcas, manta rays, tiger sharks, hammerhead sharks, and whale sharks. The best season for humpback and sperm whale watching is during the Polish holidays (July-September). The weather favours trips during this time, as it is the dry summer season in Santa Catalina. However, an even better time to visit is from December to April. During this period, the sky is consistently blue every day, and the sun beats mercilessly. Underwater during this time, you may not see humpbacks or sperm whales, but the chances of encountering mantas, whale sharks, and from March onwards, hammerhead sharks increase. Water temperatures during the season range from 20-24 degrees Celsius in April to 26-29 in December, January, and February.
POST-DIVING ACTIVITIES
It's known that divers don't live by diving alone. In Santa Catalina, no one will go hungry for sure! From the local cuisine, it's worth trying the Panamanian version of ceviche, raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime and chili, served with banana chips. On-site, you can also take trips organized by local guides to the surrounding hills covered with jungle. You can go on a kayaking or SUP trip along the coast, and horseback riding tours are also popular. But besides diving, the biggest attraction in Santa Catalina is undoubtedly surfing. The Estero beach, about a kilometre behind the town, is one of the best places in the world to learn to ride the waves. You can easily rent a board on-site and find a teacher who will in-
Photo Sabina Schreck, Seahorse
Photo Sabina Schreck, Crown of thorns
Photo Sabina Schreck, Shovelnose guitar shark
Photo Panama Dive Center, Schooling barracudas
troduce anyone interested to the secrets of this sport. After two or three hours of lessons, most people already catch their first waves confidently standing on the board. For more experienced surfers, La Punta beach awaits, a mecca for fans of the sport.
During my stay in Santa Catalina, I heard that it's a so-called "sticky place." People come for a moment, and they end up staying longer (some forever!) captivated by the diving-surfing, laid-back atmosphere, tranquillity, the friendliness of the locals, beautiful nature, and the ocean. I must admit that it was also difficult for me to leave after a visit that extended from the initially planned few days to well over two weeks.
Photo Panama Dive Center, Zebra moray
Photo Sabina Schreck, Cambute
Photo Sabina Schreck, Lobster
Photo Panama Dive Center, Octopus
AND WHAT ABOUT PANAMA BEYOND DIVING?
Not everyone knows that Panama, besides diving and surfing, is also a country of mountains. After Santa Catalina, it's definitely worth visiting the charming Boquete. It is a popular resort surrounded by tall mountains covered in cloud forests. Going on a full-day trip to such a forest, discovering hidden waterfalls deep in the mountains, and admiring lush vegetation are worthwhile activities. For the most persistent, an ideal option is an expedition to the Baru Volcano (3475 meters above sea
level). Setting out from Boquete at midnight, you can reach the summit at dawn to witness the sunrise over the Caribbean Sea, visible as clear as day. Just turn 180 degrees to see the Pacific still immersed in the shadows of the night. This view stays in the memory no less than the best pictures from underwater!
Thanks to Sabina Schreck and Panama Dive Centre for excellent diving and providing photos for this article!
Photo Sabina Schreck, Goliath grouper
MAURITIUS Luxury diving!
Text and photos ANTHONY LEYDET
ALTHOUGH RENOWNED AS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL DESTINATIONS CHOSEN BY NEWLYWEDS AND FAMILIES ALIKE, MAURITIUS IS ALSO TAKING ADVANTAGE OF ITS POSITION IN THE INDIAN OCEAN TO INCREASINGLY ASSERT ITS OFFER IN THE FIELD OF SCUBA DIVING.
With numerous shipwrecks serving as artificial reefs and a surprisingly generous fauna typical of the region, you'll find everything you need for a trip resolutely turned towards Nature and calm.
The Indian Ocean... its landscapes, with their unmistakable shades of blue and green, and its warm, festive atmosphere. The Indian Ocean is home to many dream destinations, including the Maldives, the Seychelles and Mauritius. The latter, along with Rodrigues and Reunion Island, make up the Mascareignes archipelago, and is one of the most sought-after destinations for honeymooners. Its luxury hotels are generally
well-integrated, respectful of nature and pampered, and bordered by heavenly beaches, offering a high quality rest and relaxation experience.
Of volcanic origin and surrounded by a coral reef, Mauritius has several diving areas along its 330 km coastline. In the north, the majority of sites are concentrated near Trou aux Biches and Grand-Baie, and represent the most renowned region for diving. Well sheltered from the wind and swell, there are calm sites and visibility often in excess of 20 meters...
From the sumptuous 5* Beachcomber hotel on the endless Trou aux Biches beach, it takes no more than 10 minutes by boat to reach most of the dive sites behind the coral reef. The Diving World center, set in the heart of the hotel and its tropical garden, boasts comfortable facilities just 50m from the beach, and offers the full range of recreational diving. Easily accessible, the dive sites are ideal for first dives and training courses, but will also be much appreciated by more experienced divers, as well as wreck, bio and photo enthusiasts.
THE WRECKS OF TROU AUX BICHES BAY
To boost the attractiveness of Mauritian waters for divers, the authorities came up with the idea of sinking several wrecks. The
best known of these is the famous Stella Maru, a Japanese trawler sunk in Trou aux Biches Bay in December 1987. Surprisingly, she was originally sunk on her starboard side. But in 2002, Cyclone Dhina was so powerful that the swell righted the wreck, which now sits perfectly upright! A beautiful wreck, well colonized and in excellent condition. Schools of snapper enliven the scene, as do the multitude of colorful species. But the most sensational are undoubtedly the big diodons that come to be cleaned around the mast and are easily approached by divers. Resting
on the sand at 25m and starting at 17m, this wreck is easy to dive and accessible to all levels.
KT Mawar is another, more imposing wreck, lying on its starboard side on a 23m seabed. Sunk in 2018, it is now beginning to be well colonized by some really interesting fauna... like superb, perfectly camouflaged frogfish! A swarm of colourful soft corals all along the ship and on its mast contrast with the still clearly visible sheet metal. The ship offers great opportunities for exploration inside.
In a completely different style, two small barges named Emily & Water Lilly, sunk in 1981 and 1982 to a depth of 25m, are a real treat for macro enthusiasts! A concentration of life, including lutjans and butterflyfish, beautiful nudibranchs, a few porcelain crabs sheltered among the tentacles of anemones, tiny gobies and even leaffish. If you look around on the sand, it's not impossible to spot a strolling mantis shrimp...
Last but not least, the Tawariq is also a beautiful wreck that can be entered for a thrilling experience. Fairly uncolonized, there are some nice schools of fish to be seen. A powerful cyclone moved it several dozen meters, leaving a wide furrow behind!
THE INCREDIBLE BIODIVERSITY OF MAURITIUS' REEFS
Discovering the seabed in Mauritius is full of surprises. With landscapes whose colors take on hues unique to the Indian Ocean, it's easy to find similarities with both the Red Sea and Southeast Asia beneath the surface. Although the coral cover may not be as extensive, the biodiversity is impressive. Your
Stella Maru
KT Mawar
dive center will probably take you to Coral Garden or Japanese Garden. Wander among the corals in search of camouflaged species such as syngnathids, leaf fish and ghostpipefish, while schools of soldier fish and trumpet fish hide beneath the acropora tables. From time to time, the eye is drawn to a swarming ball in the hollow of a rock... Catfish are very common and always arouse curiosity. Will you catch one of the superb green turtles resting in the coral reefs? It's highly probable that you'll come across a few during your dives in Mauritian waters. As are hawksbill turtles.
Holt Rock, a little further north in the bay, offers a very different atmosphere! Here, the corals are replaced by large granite boulders, between which blossom superb, gigantic yellow gorgonians, some of which easily exceed the size of a diver. Schools of striped emperors twist and turn with the rocks. A special guest makes an appearance, Tommy the Titan triggerfish, accustomed to encountering divers, and in the end far more docile than some of his congeners.
The Grand-Baie region, a few kilometers to the northeast, is the perfect place for a double dive to discover some remarkable reefs. Commonly known as "moray reefs", these relatively low rocky tongues stretch across the sand and are home to countless moray eels. Species such as the giant moray, the turkey moray, the geometric moray, the undulated moray, the zebra moray and the incredible ribbon moray! Frogfish and ghostpipefish add to the list, not to mention the unexpected presence of the weedy scorpionfish (Rhinopias), a species favored by photographers!
Greatly surprised by the biodiversity of Mauritian waters, I didn't expect to discover so many of the emblematic species that we look for in Asia. With its highly accessible diving, very pleasant conditions and astonishing biodiversity, but also very few dive boats on the sites, Mauritius has everything it takes to become a must-see diving destination!
AND AFTER DIVING, WHAT CAN YOU DO IN MAURITIUS?
Two dives a day are organized in the morning. Only initiation dives take place in the afternoon. Families usually take advantage of the hotel's magnificent Kids Club (a 2-minute walk from the diving center) to dive in the morning, and enjoy the rest of the day with the kids! And there's plenty to do. In addition to the traditional activities of lounging by the pool or on the deckchairs along the private beach, it's also possible to take a boat ride from the hotel's yacht club to behind the coral reef for some snorkeling, discovering a multitude of colorful fish and coral of all kinds.
Languages spoken: Creole / English / French
When to go: avoid the months of January to March (hurricane season). The best time for diving is between September and December, but you can also dive the rest of the year. The northwest region (Trou aux Biches) is the least rainy.
Currency: €1 is equivalent to around 49 Mauritian rupees.
Visa: no visa is required for holders of a European passport (valid after the date of return).
Hotel: Trou aux Biches Beachcomber 5* Golf Resort & Spa
Diving Center: Diving World https://www.diving-mauritius.com/
Cab: Kushal will accompany you and show you around his island. Contact him on Whatsapp for details: +230 5717 4529
A little further inland, there are many tourist attractions. A must-see is the famous Pamplemousse botanical garden, with its legendary ponds covered with gigantic water lilies. Cap Malheureux in the north of the island, with its red-and-white church and superb views of small islands such as Coin de Mire. Port-Louis's central market, undoubtedly the capital's liveliest spot, where you can discover the full range of fresh local produce. If you're looking for a good hike, the 7 cascades circuit in the Tamarin region is a fantastic place to combine hiking and swimming. Last but not least, don't miss a trip to the sea around Ile aux bénitiers, where you can also admire the famous Crystal Rock!
Mauritius is the perfect place to combine the joys of scuba diving with the pleasure of discovering a most welcoming island where Nature offers a multitude of activities to delight everyone.
VOLCANOES OF THE Atlantic Ocean
Text DOMINIKA ABRAHAMCZYK
Photos DOMINIKA ABRAHAMCZYK, WOJCIECH ZGOŁA
Who didn't dream of becoming an astronaut as a child? Conquering previously unknown spaces was tempting, but at the same time unrealistic and difficult to imagine. These are exactly the memories I had when I saw this island. Volcanic to the core.
Wherever you stand, you are surrounded by the Martian climate and only the presence of people around you confirms your belief that you are still on the Earth. It turns out that for some it is almost Paradise, while for others it is quite the opposite. What feelings will it evoke in you?
A small, cosy airport in Arrecife. On leaving it, you are greeted by the view of omnipresent volcanoes and the sun. You already feel that a man is just a speck in this ecosystem. The rest of the journey only confirms this theory. I'm here for the second time. I came back and now I know that I missed this place. Sentiment? Probably not only that. Lanzarote has much more to offer than just fond memories.
My first trip here involved the first dive and OWD course followed by AOWD. The first dive completed my vision of the Martian climate – the lack of gravity underwater gives a nice kick to the imagination and incredible excitement. Now I've decided to polish my skills and dive a little deeper. Bonito Diving Lanzarote in Playa Blanca was not chosen for this purpose by accident. Trustworthy staff, giving a sense of security, to whom you are happy to return. A great location, adjacent to the beach and a professionally prepared diving centre, greatly influenced this decision. The centre is equipped with good quality equipment, in all sizes, and serviced on an ongoing basis. So even if you stay on the island without a diving plan – you can rent everything on the spot. A big advantage of Bonito Diving's location is the presence of a neighbouring bay, with a very gentle sandy descent (very nice conditions for practice and learning), from which you can swim through the rocky throat to a slightly greater depth (about 20 m). The visibility here is excellent, reaching 30 meters.
Coming back to the local water, after two years, was quite a shock for me. I'd forgotten how beautiful it was there... The colours of solidified lava, rocks, vegetation and fish make such an impression on me again that even if it was possible to talk underwater, I would still be silent. Unusual views. Huge schools of barracudas make me open my eyes even wider. Handsome gilt-head sea bream, tuna that don't have to look for their prey for too long, hunt right before our eyes. At times I feel like I'm on an underwater highway. Every dive is unique. However, for the first 3 days we feel a little unsatisfied – after all, we are here in the period of occurrence of a special type of sharks – Angel Shark, which like to visit this area between October and March, and there is not a single one here...
Finally we made it! We penetrated the area of the dive site where we had the opportunity to be for the first time, called Lenguas. We dive together with Filip from a small boat. Lava uplifts in this area form "decks" on which numerous corridors, pits and alleys have formed. Between them, in the sand, Filip looks for the characteristic shape of an angel – a shark buried for camouflage. It's breathtaking, I'm so happy. We swim a little closer to photograph this place. And although it seems to us that the shark has no idea about our presence, it senses us perfectly. He slowly crawls out of the sand and majestically floats away into the depths, allowing us only to observe his chine. Fortunately, this was just the beginning of a good streak, because we had the opportunity to meet this beautiful protected animal several times.
Lanzarote scores points with the presence of many diving spots available from the shore. I definitely prefer this way of entering the water, although to visit the popular Museo Atlantico you have to use a boat. The northern part of the island is characterised by strong winds and high waves – there the crowds of surfers fulfill their passions. The dive sites are located in the south of the island. It is worth taking this into account when planning accommodation. Puerto del Carmen is one of the most popular destinations. Large numbers of divers can be found here every day. In this place you can plan deep and deeper dives, but you can also spend a wonderful time in the shallows looking for seahorses and octopuses. There is a small restaurant that you can go to after diving, but there are also toilets and showers on the beach. If you prefer more intimate places, I definitely recommend Playa Blanca.
The abundance of underwater life is breathtaking, both day and night. Majestic stingrays, huge lumpfish, beautiful crustaceans, squid and the icing on the cake – glowing plankton that gives the impression that fireflies are floating around. The magic of this place is hard to describe. In terms of safety, I would like to add that you should not sink recklessly to the bottom, because it may turn out that under the layer of sand there is, for example, an eyed electric ray (Torpedo Torpedo). Do control your buoyancy!
It would seem that the presence of more than 300 volcanoes precludes the possibility of seeing anything beyond them on the surface. And although there is no place on the map without a volcano, many beautiful places known to tourists to a greater or lesser extent are inscribed in their image. El Golfo – the emerald lake – can be reached in a few minutes'
The abundance of underwater life is breathtaking, both day and night. Majestic stingrays, huge lumpfish, beautiful crustaceans, squid and the icing on the cake – glowing plankton that gives the impression that fireflies are floating around.
walk from the free parking lot. It owes its colour to the specific phytoplankton present in it. It is filled with seawater. It was formed by flooding a volcanic crater with seawater. It contrasts wonderfully with the black of the lava and the deep colour of the ocean. EL Golfo is adjacent to Timanfaya National Park. It is worthwhile to buy a tour to the latter while on site. In addition to breathtaking views, there are attractions such as demonstrations involving pouring water into crevices, which create something like geysers, and there is also a barbecue using heat straight from the centre of the Earth . Another interesting place is Jameos del Agua, where, among other things, you can visit a lake with endemic albino crabs. They are small, white, and completely blind. The atmosphere of the place is a bit mysterious. A novelty here is the recently opened scientific and research centre Casa De Los Volcanes – an interactive "museum" with a lot of information about volcanoes, geology, but also with a reference to the Martian journey.
When to go to Lanzarote? I don't think there's a bad term You can dive here all year round. Depending on what air temperatures we like, we can choose the perfect date for ourselves. The summer is quite warm, but thanks to the windy weather, the heat is not as oppressive as in other places. I liked November and the friendly 28 degrees C during the day. In winter, we can still expect temperatures of around 20 degrees both on land and in the water. In spring, the island turns green beautifully – it looks a little more optimistic then. When planning, it is worth taking into account the presence of some species of animals, such as the aforementioned Angel Sharks, but also stingrays, which appear here in large numbers from March to May.
Will I ever come back here? I can't imagine any other option Who knows, maybe I've encouraged also you with this short text?
WRECKS AS ARTIFICIAL REEFS
Text ISADORA ABUTER GREBE
As readers of this magazine, we share a deep connection with water and the ocean. Beneath the surface of the sea lies a world of wonder. It captivates the hearts of us divers.
THE HARSH REALITY: OCEANS UNDER PRESSURE
Sadly we must confront the harsh reality – our oceans are under pressure. Science proves that marine ecosystems are facing imminent threats, including overfishing, climate change, and pollution. Human-induced impacts and structural development have significantly altered marine habitats. Even deep oceans are not spared from the impacts of human-generated waste and marine litter. Anthropogenic stressors have induced habitat changes, particularly in coastal waters, leading to the suffering of marine ecosystems through increasing industrialization, resource utilization, and coastal population growth, resulting in habitat degradation.
WRECKS AS MARINE SANCTUARIES
Are you a wreck-diver? What attracts you to wreck diving? Overall, the combination of history, adventure, photography opportunities, skill development, mystery, community, and a sense of preservation makes wreck diving interesting to us scuba divers.
If you are diving on wrecks, you may have noticed that there are wrecks that are fully overgrown by plants and animals. This is what made me become interested in wreck diving – realizing that I may be able to see life during wreck dives, simply because animals find a home on, in and around wrecks.
This is where my curiosity arose: Could wrecks become marine sanctuaries, supporting marine life and mitigating the
pressure that marine ecosystems are facing? On the other hand, could wrecks have harmful effects by attracting invasive and non-native species, outcompeting the native ones? Thinking further I was wondering if there are differences in algae that colonize wrecks and present natural reefs or does algae find a proper breeding ground on wrecks, as it does on natural reefs? More questions arose… Does it make sense to scuttle wrecks to support and enhance the resilience of the marine environment while at the same time bringing people to the underwater world and promoting encountering the ocean?
FISHING
PRESSURE AND SANCTUARY EFFECT
Studies have shown that Shipwrecks act as de facto Marine Protected Areas in areas of heavy fishing pressure. How? The wrecks seem to serve as a sanctuary from fishing disruptions in the vicinity. Informal reports indicate that local fishermen tend to stay away from the shipwrecks, presumably to avoid potential entanglement of their gear.
ECOLOGICAL
BALANCE AND HUMAN IMPACT
One thing was for sure. In places I dove, I saw a high abundance of fish around wrecks. But is it enough to say: “There are lots of fish around wrecks, so it must be good for the environment”?
Photo Arkadiusz Srebnik, Polanddivingphoto
Photo Arkadiusz Srebnik, Polanddivingphoto
Photo Bartek Trzciński
THE BROADER PICTURE
The abundant presence of fish around wrecks underscores the interconnected web of life within marine ecosystems. While this phenomenon may suggest a degree of ecological balance, it is important to examine the broader picture. Human impact, in the form of increased fishing and recreational activities drawn to these sites, can exert substantial pressure on the ecosystem. Biodiversity, a critical indicator of ecosystem health, should not be overlooked. An analysis should consider the diversity of species inhabiting the wrecks, ensuring the resilience and functionality of the ecosystem. The presence of wrecks may also bring potential risks, such as the introduction of pollutants or invasive species, which can disrupt the delicate balance of the marine environment. Thus, while the residence of fish around wrecks is fascinating, a holistic understanding that incorporates ecological balance, human impact, biodiversity, and potential risks is essential for promoting and preserving the overall health of marine ecosystems.
WRECKS AS ARTIFICIAL REEFS: THE STUDY
The study site for my research was a dive site that many of you will know: Ċirkewwa Marine Park in the very north of Malta Island. The Marine Park was established in 2021, and is known for its extensive reefs and high marine biodiversity. The two intentionally scuttled wrecks, MV Rozi and patrol boat P29, are located at approximately 35 meters depth, relatively close to the shore, with a distance of about 100 meters from each other.
WRECKS AS ARTIFICIAL REEFS: THE RESULT
The study found that the wrecks and natural reefs had similar compositions (composition refers to the total number of different living organisms within a given biome or ecosystem) due to similar environmental conditions. The natural reefs had higher diversity than wrecks, likely because the natural reefs were composed of rocks with holes and three-dimensional structures, where different kind of life can live and settle.
Photo Arkadiusz Srebnik, Polanddivingphoto
Photo Bartek Trzciński
Photo Bartek Trzciński
Photo Waldemar Świderski, CN Aquanautic, Rozi Wreck
Fish richness (the number of fish species) was similar on both, but the study found more vulnerable classified fish on the natural reefs than on the wreck, which highlighted their conservation importance.
We did not identify any invasive or alien species. Nonetheless, it's important to note that ARs, due to increased habitat availability, may attract non-indigenous species and potentially elevate the presence of alien species over native ones. Continuous monitoring and conservation efforts are essential to safeguard native species and maintain biodiversity.
ECOLOGICAL VALUE OF WRECKS
We can tell that the wrecks act as thriving habitats for marine life, mirroring the compositions of the natural reefs, even if biodiversity on natural reefs is higher – underscoring the unique ecological value they offer.
LIMITATIONS AND GEOGRAPHIC SPECIFICITY
It is important to highlight that the results of this research come with certain limitations that should be taken into account. The study specifically examined two shipwrecks and two natural reefs – these do not represent the diversity of all artificial and natural reef habitats. A study on different wrecks and reefs, as well as in different seas and oceans can likely have a different outcome.
Photo Bartek Trzciński
Photo Bartek Trzciński
Photo Bartek Trzciński
Photo Bartek Trzciński
Photo Arkadiusz Srebnik, Polanddivingphoto
While the study conducted at Ċirkewwa Marine Park provides valuable insights into the ecological dynamics of wrecks as artificial reefs, it is essential to acknowledge the geographical specificity of the research. The focus on a particular location underscores the importance of conducting further investigations in diverse regions globally. Recognizing the variability of marine ecosystems across different seas and oceans, additional research is crucial to understand the broader implications of wrecks serving as artificial reefs. Encouraging a global perspective in future studies will contribute to a better understanding of how wrecks impact marine life and ecosystems on a worldwide scale, which will facilitate conservation and management strategies.
In the case of the Ċirkewwa marine park and its featured wrecks, we can conclude nevertheless that they have an ecological function, harbouring life.
OUR RESPONSIBILITY
Every fin kick and every dive has the potential to either contribute positively or harm these delicate ecosystems. Our collective mindfulness, from choosing sustainable diving practices to advocating for marine conservation, can make a significant difference. The underwater world is not just a playground for our enjoyment; it is a fragile ecosystem that demands our respect and protection.
The study was conducted with the assistance of fellow divers, and under Malta University and the University of Life Sciences.
For more details or to obtain a copy of the study, feel free to contact me at isa.diving.buceo@gmail.com
You can also connect on Instagram at isa_diving_nature and on LinkedIn under Francisca Isadora Abuter Grebe.
Photo Bartek Trzciński
Photo Tomasz Płociński
Photo Bartek Trzciński
CROMHALL QUARRY DIVING GREAT BRITAIN
Text and photos TOMEK KULCZYŃSKI
CI WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME YOU DEAR READERS TO THE NEXT PART OF OUR DIVING JOURNEYS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM. TODAY I INVITE YOU TO A VERY SPECIAL PLACE, EVOKING EXTREME EMOTIONS IN DIVERS. SO LET'S MOVE TO THE BRISTOL AREA, TO THE PICTURESQUE VILLAGE OF CROMHALL IN SOUTH GLUCOSTERSHIRE.
romhall quarry, as the site is referred to, like most such dive spots is a post-mining reservoir. Since 1866, limestone has been quarried there amongst the very distinctive red rocks formed from magnesium conglomerate. In the case of Cromhall, we will find many similarities to standard diving sites, but it stands out in a rather special way, which we will come to later in this article.
I would primarily recommend a diving trip to Cromhall to young learners of the art of diving. I would describe the conditions there as ideal for less advanced colleagues. The
reservoir is quite small, it is possible to go around the whole reservoir in about 40 minutes. Its size and the amount of infrastructure are not overwhelming. The points of entry into the water are well thought-out and accessible to divers. Their diversity adds variety and allows divers to improve their diving skills. A stairway and a platform with a ladder are available, accessed via a wooden walkway. Divers can also enter the water directly from a large beach on one side of the reservoir. The descent is gentle and should pose no problems for older divers and beginners.
Cromhall is a shallow body of water with a maximum depth of around 17 m. I personally reached 13 m. At a depth of 5 m, there is a training platform for students, and then a few wrecks that can be viewed, such as a helicopter, a van, a fishing boat and a red English telephone box.
Cormhall is a great place to spend time in nature with friends and family. After a successful dive, you can take a picnic basket, fire up the barbecue, sit on one of the many benches situated at the edge of the reservoir and start feasting. In addition, at the time I had the opportunity to visit the dive, it was managed by the cheerful owners Maggie and Simon. They always offered a helping hand and spiced up the time with their stories and funny anecdotes. Sadly, as in so many other cases, the 2020 pandemic proved lethal to the business run by the amiable couple. The site is now managed by the South West Maritime Academy. Today, it is possible to start commercial diving or motorboat helmsman courses at the dive site. Apart from that, the reservoir is still available for divers who want to improve their technique.
The reservoir is quite small, it is possible to go around the whole reservoir in about 40 minutes. Its size and the amount of infrastructure are not overwhelming. The points of entry into the water are well thought-out and accessible to divers.
The area has one ace up its sleeve which adds to its attraction. It is the fact that the quarry is home to an endangered newt species. The Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus) is found here and has a size of 12-18 cm. It has a slender, massive and cylindrical body, a broad, flat head and a rounded snout. Both the back and sides of the body are dark, in shades of grey, brown, dark green and black, covered with dark spots. This newt is quite an attraction for those familiar with the subject, while for the less familiar, an encounter with an en-
dangered newt species is an interesting diversity at Cormhall. I was very excited to encounter this newt, but to be honest it is quite tiny and does not make a big sensation. Of our group, about half the divers were downright disappointed as it was not easy to find, and the lucky ones were probably hoping for
something else. Interestingly, the National Geographic filmed a documentary about these newts at Cromhall, and this fact alone shows how unique the site is... Because of the great crested newt, the quarry has been listed as a SSSI (site of special scientific interest).
Photo Wikipedia, Newt, larva
Photo Wikipedia, Newt, adult
In my humble opinion, the place has a large number of fans, as well as people who will not be interested in returning after visiting it once.
WHAT MAKES CORMHALL UNIQUE?
Mostly the fact that it is a very charming place. I think the word 'charming' fits best here. Maybe you won't find crowds of divers with a lot of experience with whom you can exchange a few words, nor will you find equipment shops here or attend test days of dive equipment manufacturers. Instead, you will be able to spend time with family and friends in an idyllic way. You can have a blissful picnic with your favourite food while writing about your recent dive in the logbook. Cormhall is a place where you can stop for a while, get some peace and quiet, and tick off a few dives.
KURSY
DIVING TUNA
Text PATRYCJA POPEK, SEBASTIAN POPEK Photos MARIUSZ CZAJKA
THIS FLOODED IRON ORE MINE IS LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 150 KM TO THE NORTH OF STOKHOLM, IN TUNA HÄSTBERG, DALARNA REGION.
IT IS A SMALL VILLAGE THAT HAD BEEN DEPENDENT ON THE MINE FOR YEARS.
The first mine was opened approximately 600 years ago, with another one drilled after the second world war in the vicinity of the older one. Both mines are currently connected at a depth of approximately 400 meters. The old one was closed much earlier than the new one, which started to be taken out of operation in the 1960s.
The mine is open for divers throughout the year but the best periods for diving are winter and summer. Conditions at the bottom are always the same, with water and air temperature at 4°C. Summer allows you to get warmer on the surface but the temperature difference is much easier to handle in the winter, when it is much warmer underwater than outside. Outdoor temperature in the winter can drop below –20°C. Weather conditions have little influence on the conditions below the ground and below the water. Heavy rain sometimes reduces water clarity, but visibility only drops from 30 meters to 25 meters, so this is not a problem.
You don’t need an overhead certificate in order to dive in Tuna, but it limits your diving options to the open spaces underground. Visitors at this level have two dive spots available – the main diver entrance that allows you to see the so-called “Kindergarden”, “Key Hole” or the natural habitat at 5 meters, as well as the second one that is the so-called “Indiana Jones” – a large underwater lake with external lighting and many post-mining remains.
To explore the flooded tunnels, you need at least Mine Diver or Intro to Cave certification. There are four levels available for cave divers: 35 m, 54 m, 74 m and 114 m. However, access to shafts deeper than 35 m is restricted by many conditions,
while the deepest ones require a special invitation from the mine managers.
This actually poses no problems, as to explore just the 34 m level, you will need several to several dozen of dives, as currently the tunnels with permanent guide lines are more than 5 km long, with a lot of unexplored places still left.
The mine is perfectly prepared even for large groups of divers. Diving gear is carried on special trolleys (approximately 80 meters down), while divers take the stairs.
There is a heated room inside the mine where you can warm up or dry some gear between your dives. You can find a microwave and an electric kettle there, so it’s easy to reheat your food preps.
There is a full-capacity compressor station at the bottom, providing air, nitrox and other gases if needed. Supply hoses are connected with the diving platforms, so there is no need to take you tanks out of the water for refilling.
The closed compressor room is equipped with a humidity control system, so it can be used as a drying room for undergarments and dry suits that can stay there overnight.
Apart from the regular difficulties associated with diving, the biggest challenge is to climb down and up from the mine. Approximately 420 stairs require good physical fitness. A com-
petition for the quickest run up these stairs is always open and currently the best score is 1 minute and 32 seconds.
Except for this one drawback, the mine is perfectly prepared for visitors – tank trolleys help move the gear, diving platforms and convenient ladders make climb in and out of the water easy, while great electric lifts facilitate taking gear on and off the platforms.
As far as diving is concerned, especially overhead, the ever-present cold requires good physical and mental preparation, as these dives, even though not done to great depths, are demanding and straining for both the body and the mind.
There are no restraints as to the time spent underwater, but under such conditions 60-70 minutes per dive is a lot. Six dives like that, day after day, puts a considerable strain on the human body.
Throughout the year visibility is approximately the same and, as I’ve already mentioned before, it reaches 25-30 meters. This is because of the specifics environment in the mine and the hard rock it's made of. Sections that are available for visitors have well-placed guide lines with clear (bigger than normal markers) line markers indicating the nearest exit from the water. You are allowed to place your own jumps, provided that you have relevant certification. However, there aren't many places where
you'd need to do this. The most famous one is a cart where you actually have to lay your own line.
Depth at the first flooded level reaches up to 35 meters, even though it is usually only 15-20 meters.
For me, the minimum number of dives you need to get a feeling of the mine's ambience is 3-4 diving days, i.e. 6-8 dives. This allows you to dive the main routes, at a slow pace, while you enjoy exploring the excavation remains. I've been coming back there for years and even though I did more than 40 dives there, I still find new elements and places on the so-called “standard” routes. For a first-time visitor, you'd need 3-4 days to explore the main routes.
IS TUNA ONLY A PLACE FOR DIVERS?
No, except for diving, the mine offers a number of other “dry” attractions that are worth devoting an additional day to see them. The place offers the deepest sauna (located 80 m below the ground) with incredible acoustics, via ferrata attractions, as well as a huge concert stage where choir and dance group performances, concerts and other events are held on a regular basis.
OR ABOUT, WHAT TO EAT UNDERWATER AND BEFORE DIVING Underwater feast
Text MICHAŁ CZERNIAK RED
By the time you read this issue of Perfect Diver, it will be a new year 2024. May it be a wonderful and safe year for all of us, full of joy, fulfilling dreams and abundant in opportunities for further development in the field of our common hobby of diving and exploring the underwater world!
However, before the New Year came with champagne corks shooting into the sky during the buzzing parties, our Diving Brotherhood had decided to say goodbye to the old, departing year 2023. As usual – because we had been cultivating this tradition for a long time – we planned to gather at one of the reservoirs in Greater Poland, go 3-4 meters under the water and drink a soda together. A soda, not champagne, because as the world is long and wide, it is known that divers avoid alcohol.
When I was telling my non-diving friends about our tradition, I heard one question that repeated like a mantra: drinking a drink – but how? Underwater?
I decided that it would be a good idea to write a few words about underwater consumption, because Perfect Diveris being read not only by divers; Divers, on the other hand, will certainly be happy to update their knowledge about the principles of
nutrition before and after diving, which I remind at the end of this article.
Let's start by explaining the phenomenon of what my non-diving friends are so interested in – how it is possible for divers to drink a soda underwater.
If you pick up a closed bottle of soda (I mean a champagne-like drink, but without alcohol), there will be a certain amount of pressure in the bottle. Divers are familiar with the concept of pressure, as the word is declined in our conversations in all possible ways. For those who have not yet decided to practice this beautiful hobby, it should be said that pressure, physically understood as a force per unit area, is a force that has incredible power and can work wonders. It is the pressure that causes volcanoes to erupt and shoot geysers of hot water into the air. Steamboat in Yellowstone National Park in the USA can shoot water from the ground to a height of 100 m, being
Photo Michał Czerniak
the world record holder in this respect. But let's get back to our soda bottle... We determined that there would be some pressure in a sealed bottle of soda. It is caused by a large amount of carbon dioxide, which will not only be in the neck of the bottle, but will also be dissolved in the liquid. In champagne, carbon dioxide is produced by the yeast used in the production process. In a carbonated drink, it will be provided by the manufacturer and pressed into the bottle in the capping process. According to the data found on the website of one of the champagne producers, the pressure inside the bottle can reach as much as 6 atms, which is nearly 3 times the pressure with which passenger car tires are inflated. Such high pressure explains the massiveness of the bottle in which champagnes and similar soft drinks are sold. We also know from our own experience how dangerous is a cork that spontaneously escapes from the neck of a shaken carbonated beverage and how far such a cork can go, generating a characteristic sound sensation (sound shock wave). Did you know that it is said that the speed of the cork coming out of the neck of the bottle reaches up to 50 km/h?
When we open a bottle of soda, the pressure inside it – previously much higher than the atmospheric pressure – drops rapidly. The gas, i.e. carbon dioxide, presses not only on the walls of the bottle, but also on the cork, trying violently to get out. The rate of this physical reaction causes the neck of the bottle to cool down to a temperature close to minus 50 degrees Celsius! It is impossible to observe it with the naked eye, because the whole process takes less than a second. Experts say that the louder the cork pops, the greater the temperature drop in the neck area of the bottle. Technically this is called adiabatic expansion.
When carbon dioxide in the neck of the bottle and dissolved in the beverage mixes with the air outside the bottle, the water contained in it begins to condense from the air, giving the effect of a characteristic mist accompanying the burst of the cork.
When carbon dioxide escapes from the bottle, a vacuum is created in the neck for a moment, causing air to be rapidly sucked in. The increase in pressure inside the bottle causes further portions of soda to escape from it. This process continues until the pressure inside the bottle and the pressure outside the bottle equalize.
Opening a carbonated drink under water is governed by similar laws, although there are some differences. At the usual "consumption" depth of 5-6 meters, the pressure is 1.5/1.6 times higher than the atmospheric pressure. As a result, the opening of the carbonated beverage is not accompanied by such a spectacular effect as on land, as this process is partially hampered by the pressure under water. It is good to take to heart and properly understand the expression "partially hampered", because we know from our own experience that an attempt to drink a strongly carbonated beverage under water directly from the bottle using the usual method by putting your lips to it, may end up with a sudden eruption of this drink, leading not only to flooding the diver's mouth, but also filling his mask with a bubbly delicacy. Connoisseurs know that the masterful technique involves turning the bottle upside down, gently tilting it at a small angle and just as gently blowing into its interior through the neck. The drink – without any revolutions – will then flow into your mouth on its own!
Source Anna Szyczewska i Mirosław Włas
However, not only divers deal with the liquids flowing out of various bottles... Do you know that as early as 1738 the Swiss mathematician and physicist, Daniel Bernoulli, studied phenomena similar to the one I have described above (although he probably did not use carbonated drinks) and on this basis developed a theory that is successfully used to this day, which is the main basis of the part of physics called "fluid mechanics"?
Drinking beverages underwater is not as difficult an art as it might seem to anyone who has never tried to scuba dive underwater. To prove the accuracy of this statement, we decided to personally perform an experiment and consume a banana at a depth of 6 meters. Cold water at a temperature of 3 degrees gave the ripe fruit additional freshness and taste, reminiscent of a frozen banana dessert. Our banana consumption did not encounter any major difficulties – the condition is to take small bites that are easy to bite and swallow, which allows you to quickly return to breathing automatically. I'm not mentioning the difficulties of peeling the banana with thick, dry gloves, because the technical difficulties associated with this phase had no impact on the positive outcome of the whole experience. When I browsed online forums looking for opinions about eating underwater, I was amused to see that this topic is not only of interest to us. Fellow divers from the USA, active on the forum scubaboard.com, conducted much more advanced underwater tests compared to our banana consumption test. Here are some quotes from their posts:
1. Chocolate cream cupcakes completely collapsed/compressed at a depth of 70 feet, but they still tasted amazing during breaks on the surface,
2. The fruit cakes compressed at a depth of 12 feet and were too mushy to eat when opened.
3. Slim Jims (from the author: a popular American snack) can be eaten at any depth without any adverse effects.
4. Orangada does not sparkle at a depth of 55 feet. It just stays in the bottle no matter how hard you shook it before opening it.
5. You can apply waterproof mascara at a depth of 45 feet – it took skill, but it was possible. Why would you want to do that... I have no idea, but a member of our team thought it would be fun. Same with the lipstick, which only compressed slightly but was still usable.
6. The chocolate-covered Oreo cookie was good at any depth. The chocolate glaze made the cookie dry and tasty. Quite a treat during the deco stop.
For recreational divers, eating anything underwater seems to be unnecessary. Recreational diving lasts so short that proper nutrition before starting the dive allows you to experience full comfort in that respect while being underwater. The situation is different in the case of many hours of technical dives combined with decompression – especially if they are carried out with the use of a closed circuit, i.e. CCR rebreathers.
As beginners and aspiring technical divers, we know that hydration before and after diving is extremely important. But
what about the time spent underwater? Even longer open-circuit dives are usually short enough to cope comfortably with the lack of food and drink underwater. However, diving with a CCR rebreather can mean staying underwater for much longer, often lasting several hours. This means that hydration of the diver's body underwater becomes an important issue.
The idea of "refueling" during strenuous activities is not new. Long-distance runners do this on a regular basis. There are special energy gels that you can easily carry with you and eat without stopping. Even on shorter runs or jogs, many people carry water or electrolyte drinks with them to hydrate on the run.
Source https://nowoczesnysport.pl/
Back to diving... How to eat and drink underwater? Drinking is quite simple. Simply attach to your technical kit a standard camelback with a tube to be placed close to your mouth. When you feel like taking a sip of water, you should follow one of the ubiquitous procedures in technical diving: "close the CCR loop as if you wanted to save yourself, find the camelbaka hose, take a sip, and then return to the loop". When I discussed this topic with Tomek Kulczyński – our TEC instructor, Tomek mentioned that when he was doing deep dives (over 100 m) in England, he used to take a specific type of orange juice with a straw in the pocket of his dry suit (we do not give the brand to avoid advertising). This juice was vacuum-packed, which meant that its packaging was not crushed under water at great depths; Packets of other juices, containing air inside, sometimes played a good trick on the divers...
Eating in case of rebreather is a bit more difficult. Experts on the subject do not recommend getting off the loop, eating anything "substantial" and returning to the loop. Energy gels that do not require chewing are perfect here. Apparently, chocolate is an excellent snack – especially in the final phase of decompression at a depth of 6 meters...
You may wonder if eating anything underwater is a fad? I don't think so –if you can, why not do it! Getting out of the water with a rebreather and multiple stages requires a lot of energy. Eating a candy bar that will give us that little boost of energy just before going out will just be nice.
The title of this article is "An Underwater Feast". It is impossible not to write a few sentences about saturation divers at this point. It is true that professional divers do not always eat while working, but they are definitely representatives of the Diving Brotherhood, who carry out their daily consumption only underwater.
Saturation diving is a dive reserved for professionals. Divers often work under increased pressure at great depths for days at a time. However, they do not perform the daily ascent procedure. To rest, they return to an underwater base called a habitat, designed to mimic the conditions of the deep sea. Saturation divers are equipped with food rations similar to those dedicated to soldiers on the battlefield. Habitat – despite having very limited space – allows for reheating meals and eating them by divers in dry and relatively comfortable conditions. Divers typically eat three meals a day, and the food is prepared by the support team that stays in the habitat with the team of divers. A nutritious and well-balanced diet is essential. Divers must have strength and energy to work, as their stays in underwater habitats can last up to several months.
Eating and drinking underwater is certainly an interesting aspect of diving. However, a large number of us will opt for the consumption of food in standard land conditions. Let's remind ourselves of a few important rules of nutrition before and after diving, so that our underwater adventures are always carried out with the utmost comfort in this regard.
PS. I'm not a dietitian or nutrition theoretician, that's why I took the following notes from Przemysław Tarko from his article "Nutrition for Scuba Diving: Fueling Your Underwater Adventure" published in August 2023 on www.mikesdivestore.com
1. STAY HYDRATED
Despite being surrounded by vast amounts of water, divers are prone to dehydration. Breathing dry, compressed gas and diuresis (increased urine production) underwater play a huge role in dehydration. Dehydration can lead to reduced blood circulation, limiting gas exchange, promoting bubble formation, which increases the risk of DCS (decompression sickness). —Carry electrolyte tablets with you when diving.
Keep a water bottle with you and refill it regularly —Drink water in small amounts throughout the day.
2. BEST FOOD FOR DIVERS
The ideal pre-dive meal should be light and easily digestible. It should contain sources of complex carbohydrates and fat, fruit or vegetables, and water. Cereals, rice or pasta are good sources of carbohydrates, while yogurt, nuts, almonds, dark chocolate and olive oil are great sources of fat. It is important to provide enough protein in your diet to support tissue repair and recovery.
3. FOODS AND DRINKS TO AVOID WHILE DIVING
Certain types of food can cause digestive problems, leading to discomfort. Fatty, spicy, and highly processed foods can slow down digestion. Fermented foods such as cabbage and some beans should also be avoided. In addition, it is not recommended to dive with a full stomach, and several hours should elapse between your last meal and your next dive. Don't drink alcohol – alcohol is full of calories and is a significant contributor to dehydration. Alcohol is a diuretic and can cause rapid fluid loss from the body. This means that when you drink alcohol, your kidneys excrete more water than usual, causing you to become dehydrated. Foods and Drinks to Avoid While Diving:
—Carbonated beverages
—Beverages containing alcohol
Fatty foods: they are high in fat, which can slow down digestion and cause digestive problems.
Sweet, high-calorie snacks that can cause a sudden drop in sugar levels underwater.
4. MEAL TIMES DURING A DIVE
Managing when and how much to eat while diving is essential to avoid slowing down digestion. It is recommended to eat your main meals two hours or more before diving. If you're a diver, it's important to understand the impact that food can have on your dive performance. Eating before a dive can help fuel your body and maintain energy levels during long dive sessions, however, eating before a dive can also cause digestive problems. Here are some tips for eating before diving:
—Eat your main meals two hours or more before diving.
—Eat light snacks about 30 minutes before diving.
—Drink plenty of water before and after diving to stay hydrated.
5. NUTRITIONAL VALUES OF SNACKS
When it comes to nutrition while diving, snacks are very important. Not only do they give you the quick energy boost you need underwater, but they can also help maintain your energy levels during and after your dive. Energy bars, fruit and protein bars are some of the most popular snacks for divers. Energy bars are full of vitamins and minerals that help you stay energised while diving, as well as provide essential proteins for muscle recovery after a dive. Fruit is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and natural sugar, which can help fuel your diving.
MY CHILDREN ARE NOT EVEN 10 YET, BUT THEY ARE ALREADY DIVING...
We go on vacations together, spend a lot of time by the water, regularly visit the swimming pool. I dive, and so would like my child. Are you familiar with this situation? Since September, I've received dozens of calls from parents looking for joint diving activities in the pool.
The basic Junior Open Water diving course is for children from the age of 10, but we know our child and we are aware that they can dive even at an earlier age. We can observe how eager they are to be in water, how they can swim, and how they pull themselves out of the water when their lips become purple and they shiver with cold.
In this article, I'd like to describe our water options before the minimum age for a diving course, considering that we've already completed swimming lessons and pool play. I'll outline a few programs for children's diving lessons in the pool, presenting a sketch of such activities, so that you can envision these sessions and consciously choose them or convince someone still undecided.
In previous articles, I covered the precise selection of equipment, describing separately each swimming element. Now I'll briefly describe the ABC equipment and wetsuit. The mask should be chosen according to the shape of the face, and
it's crucial that it's a small mask dedicated to children. Even if my mask is good and doesn't let water in, my child might have trouble clearing it because its capacity is too large for a single exhale through the nose to easily clear it. The snorkel must have a small mouthpiece, and depending on your child's dental situation, you can choose the mouthpiece shape. At this age, a child might be missing a tooth, or it might be loose, and therefore a poorly chosen mouthpiece could cause discomfort. Fins should match the width of the feet. It's advisable to avoid strap fins, as they are hard and might strain the legs unnecessarily. The wetsuit should be fitted, and from experience, I know that the ease with which children put it on matters a lot. I recommend those with short legs and sleeves. Since the sessions are held in a pool, such a wetsuit should be sufficient for a water temperature of around 27 degrees Celsius. However, if you know your child gets cold easily, it's worth looking for a long wetsuit. Looking at my boys, I see how they can change sizes two or three times a year, and if I had to buy two wet-
Text Dobrochna Didłuch CN Deco Photos CN Deco
suits for a child within a year, it would involve additional costs. It's worth considering used wetsuits or buying them in the summer at stores like Biedronka, Lidl, or second-hand shops. I was surprised myself at the amount of such equipment in the last place, often brand new with tags and for just a few zlotys.
The lessons I'll describe are conducted in a pool for children from 8 years old and up to a maximum depth of 4 meters. Always remember safety rules, even if a child is doing very well and someone encourages you to move to the next stage despite not reaching the minimum age. Safety of our children should always be the top priority.
PADI has prepared two programs for younger children: Bubblemaker, a bubble-blowing program, and Seal Team, a seal commando. The first one is a program specifically for blowing bubbles underwater, covering the absolute basics of diving. The next sessions of Seal Team are more advanced and expanded. In addition to basic diving skills, there's equipment assembly learning, and for attractiveness, they introduced diving missions, comparable to diving specializations. These are readymade programs; instructors have access to materials and scenarios for such activities. Honestly, on the first sessions with children, I adhered closely to these programs, but with children, you have to be very flexible. An 8-year-old is never the same as another 8-year-old; one child may be very brave, talkative, and active,
while another may be shy, full of fears, and timid. Each child must be approached individually. I always start by showing the children the equipment, in theory, before they enter the water. They can touch everything, see how it works, and ask many questions. It's good to compare diving equipment to everyday items they already know, such as a BCD to a backpack, a mask to ski goggles, etc. And from the beginning, safety elements must be emphasized: no running in the pool, no walking in fins, no jumping into the water when bubbles are seen. A diver might be underwater, and I explain to children that we might land on his or her head. I show the children that it's hard to damage the equipment. This dispels fears, and a little fear of it disappears. However, at the same time I teach them to respect the equipment, asking them not to throw it, to put it back in place, to rinse it, and to put it away after diving. It's important for a diver to take care of the equipment, not just their own, but also any borrowed equipment. At the first entry into the water, we start with breathing through the snorkel. This is to get used to breathing only through the mouth. The next stage is breathing through the regulator, but we hold the equipment in front of us. We can't immediately dress a child, and at the same time to crush him or her down with all the diving gear. Until then, everyone gets used to the regulator at their own pace; it's better to do it slowly than to rush. When we have a little person ready, I dress them in the water, discussing
In December, we organize sessions with Santa hats, creating unique Christmas cards at the pool. We also engage in various games, always involving parents.
everything and showing it. Whenever possible, I let them fasten the buckle, adjust the strap. Slowly, without pressure, but with as much independence and demonstration as possible, showing that they can touch everything in their gear. Inflate the BCD to the full and see that it won't burst; the valve will release excess air. When conducting such activities, always remember that the maximum attention span of children is usually around 20 minutes. I never use this time at once; it has to be intense, things have to happen, but there also has to be fun. I'll describe this with a specific example: we practice breath-hold swimming. I always start with the shortest description possible, how to do it and why we need it. I show how I take a deep breath and sing on the exhale (I sing badly, so everyone usually laughs), then we all do it together, still on the surface. The next stage is submerging, and underwater, I show the exercise, everyone watches, and then we all practice together. It might seem like 20 minutes have passed, but I used maybe 4 minutes. Time must be managed very thoughtfully. Everyone completed the exercise, better or worse,
we should not judge, just move on to play. I set up a hula hoop at different depths, and by just using our breath, we change depth and swim through them, of course without touching the hoop. We swim below the surface, I release a shark (a toy from my sons' bath, which sinks), and while exhaling, we swim down to the shark. We do goose going home movements, where I lead the slalom up and down, and everyone follows doing first goose-stepping and then changing depths with me. Roughly, you have to maintain a ratio of 5 minutes of learning and 10 minutes of play.
Not only does the attention span limit us, but also the thermal comfort of children. Even if we dress a child in a long 7mm wetsuit (I don't do it because there isn't enough time to squeeze them into this costume), after about 30 or maybe 40 minutes, they will still feel cold, or natural necessities will call them. When planning activities, I always keep this in mind. If I know someone is particularly sensitive to the cold, I start exercises with that child. If they exit the water earlier, the planned activities for that pool will still be completed. Sometimes it happens that the plan has been executed, and the children are still warm. I'm always prepared for this; we review skills from previous sessions that posed greater difficulties, and I have a few additional tasks. I also ask the children what they want to do;
they often have very cool ideas, such as doing somersaults underwater or even competing to see who can do more spins. I really enjoy activities with children; I can learn from them and stimulate their imagination. For them, there are no impossible things.
We always try to encourage parents to join the activities. If parents are already divers, they can be in the pool at the same time, doing their planned exercises and diving together during free time. Together, you can do many things, such as underwater photography, fish identification, and play with buoyancy without fins. It's not just about joint trips, preferably exotic ones, but also about everyday attractions. In December, we organize sessions with Santa hats, creating unique Christmas cards at the pool. We also engage in various games, always involving parents. In our diving centre, the calendar of such additional pool sessions is prepared at the beginning of the year so that everyone can choose, adjust the date, and even make a present or surprise for a loved one. When children dive, and parents observe from dry land, during the family picnic we organize at our municipal open-air pool to bid farewell to summer, in gratitude for their help with the pool reefs, we encourage them to get into the water and see what fascinates their little ones. Every opportunity is good for integration, entering the child's world: their interests, friends, and companions. Parents don't always have time to go to the pool with their children, and such meetings bring them closer. I always rejoice when the parents of our students meet, communicate, take turns bringing children to classes. Thanks to diving, people get to know each other, and they establish an even better connection with their children.
Golden birds
Text and photos WOJCIECH JAROSZ
I'm lying flat on the ground. Not for the sake of lying, but in order to appear smaller. I can't fool the birds really, but by lying still I might get a closer, kind of coincidental, tete-a-tete with a feathered creature absorbed in search of another prey.
SoI am prostrated on the sand. It's sea sand, however not the golden Baltic sand, but black Icelandic sand. Gold, however, appears anyway! Not in the form of precious metal (in fact, I wouldn't despise it either), but in the form of a creature of an extraordinary beauty. My lumbar pain disappears somewhere, the index finger of the right hand is activated and the shutter in the camera begins its dance passing the accurately measured portions of light towards the camera matrix where they are recorded. The images of the golden plover enclosed in these photon grains are transformed (such modern magic) into a sequence of zeros and ones stored on a memory card. A card that becomes more and more valuable to me with each subsequent photo saved. It becomes my gold.
I lie on the Icelandic sand, because in Poland golden plovers have not been nesting for a very long time. As scary as it may sound, for this reason they were considered extinct in our country. Admittedly, they visit our wetlands and near-water areas during migration, allowing us to admire them on their way to the breeding grounds or back to the wintering habitats when they stop to rest and replenish supplies. Their stops are sometimes longer, and sometimes shorter, but in any case they are more like going to a roadside gas station, for quick refuelling and a hot dog (or maybe a slightly longer charging of an electric car and a several-course dinner) than a long stay in a guesthouse or hotel combined with sightseeing of, e.g. The Emigration Museum in Gdynia and the Private Museum of the Polish Devil "Przedpiekle" in Warsaw. In the current version of the red list of Polish birds, among the species extinct in the area of Polish in the last 200 years, the golden plover is accompanied by (as many as 15!) of them: the common shrike, the bustard, the curlew, the common snipe, the little gull, the black-throated loon, the purple heron, the booted eagle, the lesser kestrel, the red-footed falcon, the woodchat shrike, the common rock thrush and the parrot crossbill. Some of them can be observed occasionally during migration, but unfortunately they do not make their nests in our country anymore. There are many reasons for this situation, but
in principle they are all related to our activities and the resulting changes in the environment.
Let's go back to the plover, the main character of this story, and take a closer look. The golden plover (Pluvialis apricaria) is a representative of the order of plovers and the same family of charadriidae as their smaller cousins, the plovers (I wrote about them in Perfect Diver – No. 4). The bird is not too big, somewhere between a blackbird and a pigeon, with a beak that is not too long and with not too long legs – everything seems to be just the right size. The golden colouring included in the species' name uniquely matches the bird's exterior. The yellowish-spotted upper body contrasts with the blackness of the lower parts, and they are separated by a white, wide line. When reading this description, it's hard to expect that such coloration has anything to do with camouflage. And yet, this kind of masking really does the trick! Especially in places like these, which are abundant on the northern borders of Europe, including Iceland. Or maybe especially in Iceland, where black sand of volcanic origin and rocks of the same origin, after all, ubiquitous there, perfectly match the colouring of the "chassis" of the plover. However, this is less important; after all, what would attack the plover from underneath? When you look at golden plovers from above, they are very difficult to spot against the background of tundra mosaics,
bogs of all kinds or seaside grasslands – to some extent it can be seen in the photographs illustrating this article. Chicks, which are precocial and become independent very quickly, are even more difficult to spot. Their camouflage is excellent. After the mating and breeding season, the plovers become slightly less contrasting and turn more beige, but during the return from breeding grounds, some birds still have traces of summer coat, giving the observers from our part of the world a chance to admire them in their best outfits. Regardless of the season, golden plovers stay in water-related areas. Not always very close to water, but they are included in the broadly understood group of aquatic and wetland organisms, which is confirmed, for example, by their presence in the register of marine species (WoRMS – World Register of Marine Species). Apart from the place where the story began, i.e. the beach, golden plovers are most easily found in tundra, moors and swampy areas. During their migration they can also be seen in fields and meadows, where they form flocks with representatives of other species, such as lapwings (Vanellus vanellus – about which I may also write for the readers of Perfect Diver one day). Despite their clear relationship with water, golden plovers cannot swim and are not adapted to it. This can be risky for those individuals who make long hikes over the open sea. A completely unique example of an extreme journey over
It turns out that flying in a formation, i.e. placing yourself in the right position in relation to its predecessor during the flight, like cyclists riding "on the wheel" of their teammate, saves more than 20% of energy!
the ocean is what our main character's cousin, Pluvialis dominica (called Americal golden plover in English) does, covering the distance from Alaska to Hawaii in one jump, i.e. about 4000 km! How is it possible for a bird to fly non-stop for almost 90 hours, making a quarter of a million wingbeats during that time? Where does the energy for such an effort come from?
Precise calculations of the number of calories consumed during the flight at the optimal speed (it can be neither too slow nor too
fast to spend energy in the best way) indicate that there is no way that there will be enough fat for such a long flight. It turns out that flying in a formation, i.e. placing yourself in the right position in relation to its predecessor during the flight, like cyclists riding "on the wheel" of their teammate, saves more than 20% of energy! This is the strength and wisdom of the flock! After all, there is no chance for such an achievement individually – let's learn from birds!
The flight speed of the plovers is significant, and in the context of what we will be discussed in a moment, even record-breaking. This was well known to hunters who used to shoot them as game birds (this practice still continues in some parts of the globe, unfortunately), because hitting a bird flying at
a speed of about 100 km/h is no mean achievement. Legend has it that the result of a certain Sir Hugh Beaver's reflection on the flight speed of a golden plover during a hunt in Ireland was the creation of the Guinness Book of Records. The aforementioned gentleman, the then director of the Guinness brewery, could not find an answer to the fascinating question of whether the golden plover or the red grouse flies faster. That's how he came up with the idea to collect the answers to such questions in one place, and that's how the story of this publication began with the first edition in 1955.
Golden plovers attract attention not only with a fast flight, but also with a characteristic, somewhat sad cry. Anyway, when talking about attracting attention, it is impossible not to mention their strategy of protecting young from predators. In a situation potentially dangerous for chicks, adult birds deliberately attract the attention of the attacker by simulating their own injury. Sometimes they even ostentatiously run up to the predator, whistling loudly at the same time to focus its attention on themselves, giving the young a chance to avoid being exposed. An observer or photographer who sees such behaviour should retreat carefully so as not to disturb the birds taking care of the chicks, carefully peeking under their feet, because, according to what I wrote above, small golden plovers have mastered camouflage to perfection.
Well, enough of this lying around, we have to change the location. Through the viewfinder of my camera, I watch ringed plovers stomping in a remote corner of the beach. Discomfort in the loins returns, so it's a good time to change the target of my photographic hunt. You too go "hunting" birds wherever you can. Maybe you will be able to "shoot" a golden plover with your eyes? Let's hope it's not like Superman's, Lightman's from The Incredibles, or another Cyclops' from X-Men sight! Good luck in your hunt!
DIVING FAREWELL to the Year 2023
Text PIOTR KOPEĆ, Wąski
An old saying goes: "the way the year ends shapes the whole next year”. That's exactly the thought that motivated the CN Compass Divers team to organize a diving gathering on the last day of 2023.
FROM IDEA TO IMPLEMENTATION
The idea of a collective dive on the last day of the year arose in our minds in the fall, during a staff meeting where we decided it would be nice to see each other on New Year's Eve and dive together. The idea quickly turned into a plan, which we began to put into action. We decided to start the event at 9 a.m. with a meeting at our centre in Pobiedziska near Poznań. The event was announced on all the diving forums we knew.
DECEMBER 31, 2023...
The day of the event arrived. We were well aware that many people already had a set schedule for the day, which might not necessarily align with diving – so we were worried that attendance might not be high. To our delight, at "hour 0," cars began pulling into the centre, from which smiling diving enthusiasts emerged. It turned out that there were over 30 of us – with half declaring their intention to go underwater. After a coffee, we headed to the diving spot in the town of Lednogóra, 10 km away. The weather that day was excellent as it wasn't raining, which lately isn't so obvious in our region. The air temperature was rather "brisk" – not exceeding 5 degrees Celsius. This fact didn't deter the group of wetsuit-clad divers, represented by three individuals.
The main attraction of the event was the collective opening and drinking of non-alcoholic champagne underwater. Before entering the water, a short safety and procedure briefing took place (details of which you can read in the same issue of Perfect Diver in RED's article titled "Underwater Feast or What to Eat Underwater and Before Diving"). Before submerging, we already knew that visibility wouldn't spoil us, as it didn't exceed 1.5 meters. The signal to go "underwater" was given, and after a moment, 15 divers descended to a depth of about 3 meters, where we collectively opened sparkling non-alcoholic beverages. After an underwater toast, each diving group completed their last dive of 2023 – the water temperature around 3 degrees led us to set the dive time at 30-45 minutes.
The excitement and warm atmosphere of the event didn't let us think about minor inconveniences such as the low water temperature. After surfacing, a grill and warm drinks awaited the participants. Conversations seemed endless, it was hard to part ways, but time was running out as we had to change our diving gear into New Year's attire.
We decided that the event would be cyclical. Participants came not only from nearby towns but also from Września, Toruń, and even Gdynia.
We invite you in 2024!!!
Underwater debut
EXPLORING THE PSYCHOLOGICAL DIMENSIONS OF THE FIRST DIVE
When I think back to my diving debut, the excitement still comes back. When I put all my gear on that day, I was overwhelmed with fear.
With the weight on me, the tight wetsuit and the mask over my face, I felt like I was about to suffocate and that things could only get worse. Once in the water, I thought to myself "it's fine". I felt a slight chill, the weight I was carrying suddenly stopped weighing on me and I wanted to be under water as quickly as possible.
I took my first breath with caution. “So cool!!” I thought. I felt anxious and my heart was pounding like crazy. I carefully watched the instructor and repeated the exercises after him, believing that if he was doing it, I wouldn't be in danger either. As a result, the fear gradually began to let go. What I remember is the sounds around me, the surface of the water as seen from underneath, and the silence I remember from childhood when I would dip my ears and close my eyes to listen to the various strange sounds coming from afar.
And that joy after getting out of the water. I was happy and counting down the days until each next dive. These were moments that allowed me not to think about anything else. Today, I teach people to dive myself.
What about you? Do you remember that ground-breaking day, dear divers and instructors, when you entered the underwater world for the first time? Do you recall how your hearts beat faster as you breathed beneath the surface of the water, feeling like discoverers of unexplored lands?
What emotions accompanied you in those moments? Was it a thrill of anxiety, awe, or perhaps undisguised euphoria? Those
Text ALDONA DREGER, AGNIESZKA ROMAŃCZUK Photos JACEK TWARDOWSKI
first dives, although they may not have been technically perfect, carried the charm of discovery, the sheer joy of a first encounter with the underwater world.
The intro diving opens up the opportunity to try this fascinating activity without having to commit to a comprehensive course. It is a perfect chance for a first contact with the mysterious universe before you decide to commit more fully to dive training and certification.
Plunging into the ocean waters is like crossing a magical barrier, where each first breath underwater represents the symbolic beginning of a new path.
For many, it is a transformational moment – from an initial feeling of anxiety and fear of the unknown, to a deep appreciation and awe of the mysterious depths. This is the moment when one comes face to face with one's fears, and the space beneath the surface of the water becomes an arena of inner struggle and triumph.
For some people, the first diving experience can be extremely emotionally intense and can lead to various psychological reactions.
This is what Beata Koziarska Managing Director & CEO of emoveogroup.pl says about her first dive:
Thanks to Aldona and Jacek, and their stories about the benefits of diving, I decided to give it a try. Of course, it took a while to fight the arguments internally, whether I should, whether I could, whether I would be able to control my fear... but curiosity won out. After all, what did I have to lose? I was under the care of professional diving instructors and in the safe conditions of the Deepspot training pool in Mszczonów. My decision was also greatly influenced by the fact that my instructor would be Aldona, that she would introduce me to the underwater world in a "feminine way".
I knew very little about diving, only that there is a cylinder, a mouthpiece, fins. The theoretical part made me a bit stressed, the amount of technical information and how to communicate underwater made my heart beat faster... How to master all this at once?
Finally fitting the equipment and... Into the water!!! Time for my first breath underwater, yet still in my comfort zone, at the edge of the pool. Adrenaline is through the roof!!! I can do it, the realisation reaches me, I take one breath through the apparatus, then another. My heart is pounding like crazy. It's hard to even out the breathing. We practice breathing, removing and inserting the apparatus underwater.
Now it's time for the dive. Here it goes a little worse, because it's difficult to let go of the edge of the pool, the last bastion of dry land, to let the air out completely, to trust my brains and disconnect the birdbrain that instinctively tells me to run away.
We go underwater, my heart is pounding, but curiosity is stronger. What is also wonderful is the feeling that I have overcome my fears, my barriers, I have entered a completely different underwater world! I smile to myself and enjoy it like a child. Bravo Beti!!!
Do I recommend such an experience? Of course! I am a perfect example that any person can do it. Being aware of overcoming your weaknesses is a great motivator. It is also an excellent team building activity, to build confidence and trust in one's abilities.
Underwater, divers come face to face with some fears; of depth, of losing control, entering a space from which one does not know what to expect. Controlled breathing, focus on the present moment, and careful observation turn diving into a form of meditation that teaches stress and emotion management.
It is therefore important to approach diving with adequate preparation; patience, understanding of your emotional reactions, and to seek support from experienced diving instructors.
In this journey, dive instructors act as mentors, guiding you through the maze of underwater challenges. They are not only teachers of the techniques and skills needed to dive safely, but also guides in the process of personal development. Through their knowledge, patience, and ability to convey calmness, they teach you how to transform fear into respect, uncertainty into confidence.
The role of the instructor in diving is also essential from a psychological point of view. Through support, encouragement, and sometimes necessary reprimand, the instructor's presence helps to overcome personal barriers and fears. Their ability to build confidence and safety is crucial, especially in the early stages of learning.
For many, a first dive involves overcoming a fear of deep water, darkness or the unknown. However, as the dive progresses, fear gives way to curiosity and delight.
Here’s what Marta Kosek Art director, graphic designer martakosek.com, has to say about her first dive:
The first breath underwater was like discovering a new world. I remember my initial diving experience with a smile because it
was an emotional ride from fear to total joy. It took me a while to get used to the equipment and understand how underwater physics works, but once I had fairly mastered the technique, I found that being under the surface was like being reborn. Each time it's a different opening experience, both physically and mentally.
I am just a beginner, but I already know this is something for me. I focus on my breath, visual and spiritual sensations, and the outside world ceases to have any meaning. For me, diving is a meditative and metaphysical experience which has many other benefits. After each ascent, I return to the surface with peace and filled with energy.
This shift from fear to peace is a key part of the ZEN experience, where we accept and transcend our inner barriers. This experience of a state of ZEN often becomes the beginning of a longer journey into the inner self. What begins as a physical exploration of underwater realms quickly evolves into an inner journey, full of self-reflection and personal growth. The state of ZEN achieved underwater can teach us how to achieve a similar state of calm and focus in our everyday lives.
Here’s what Natasza Kotarska, film producer nataszakotarska.pl, has to say about achieving a state of ZEN:
My first time going underwater was more about curiosity, not fear. Beyond curiosity, there was something unfamiliar but I was definitely more curious about what it's like than stranded with fear, so I entered the water with confidence. The instructor who brought calmness and reassurance definitely played a role in that. I think I need that kind of support in my life from someone I can trust, so I think this instructor support from the right person was very important for me.
Stories from freshly graduated divers often focus on these transformations, describing how diving has positively affected their mental and personal lives. It's a great experience that not only develops physical skills, but also strengthens the mental aspects, creating a whole new approach to life.
Intro diving is not only a chance to discover the underwater world, but also the first step to join an amazing community. One of the most important and enriching features of the sport of diving is precisely the building of bonds.
The diving community forms a fabric woven from shared experiences, emotions and adventures. Diving together, whether it is the excitement of exploring wrecks or the tranquillity of swimming among coral reefs, creates extraordinary bonds. These experiences, shared in both the excitement and the silence of the underwater world, cement relationships that often develop into lifelong friendships.
Agnieszka Romańczuk – psychotherapist cooperating with WewellDiving says:
It is definitely worth experiencing this state. The purpose of ZEN practice is to purify the mind and see its true nature. Experiencing ZEN is like drinking water and knowing whether it is cold or hot. It is a tool for developing the true wisdom within each of us.
Diving, especially for beginners, in full gear can sometimes induce feelings of claustrophobia. The feeling of limited range of motion, as well as the awareness of being underwater, can create anxiety.
For some people, deep water can also be a source of anxiety. The uncertainty of being immersed in the unknown, the inability to see the bottom or the limited visibility often lead to feelings of anxiety and fear.
At our WeWell Diving school, we have encountered adepts who required specialist psychological support to overcome their anxiety. In situations where anxiety has a deep psychological basis, support from professional psychologists or therapists specialising in dealing with stress and emotional problems is extremely important.
Such professional help can be invaluable for those experiencing intense diving-related anxiety that goes beyond the typical initial concerns.
In summary, the first introductory dive, known as a intro diving, is much more than an initial lesson in diving techniques. It is an important step in a journey through a variety of mental aspects, including dealing with fears, developing interpersonal skills, strengthening social relationships, and a personal journey towards greater self-confidence. For many participants, this intro diving is the beginning of a journey to explore the underwater world and personal growth and satisfaction.
This first dive opens the door to a world where personal development is just as important as technical proficiency. Beginning divers, through this experience, not only learn the basics of safety and equipment handling, but also gain valuable social skills, learning to build confidence and boost their self-assurance. A key element in the success of this first experience is the proper psychological preparation of the instructor, whose role goes far beyond mere technical instruction. A well-prepared instructor, who is aware of the psychological aspects of diving, is able not only to convey technical knowledge, but also to create an atmosphere of trust and safety, responding appropriately to the emotions of novice divers. Thus, he becomes the key to success in the intro diving, encouraging further diving adventure and personal development.
Jacek Twardowski, SDI Diving Instructor described his first instructor intro as follows:
I must admit that I had some concerns when conducting my first intro diving, says Jacek Twardowski, WeWell Diving School Instructor. However, thanks to understanding and empathy, the whole event went really well. A touching moment for me was when one of the students underwater squeezed my hand tightly, which showed his initial fear. It was incredibly rewarding to watch the confidence and support turn fear into excitement and enjoyment of the dive. The smiles and enthusiasm of the students as they overcame their fears were extremely touching to me, and confirmed that every effort put into building trust and comfort during a dive makes a huge difference
In conclusion, we extend our sincere wishes to all students and their dive partners, that in their journey they not only discover the mysteries of the deep, but also achieve a state of ZEN – deep peace and harmony, both underwater and in everyday life. May each dive be a step towards a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them, and may diving become a source of constant joy and personal fulfilment.
OR ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME EXTREME SENSATION
The mere sound of the words 'ice diving' sends a shiver through most people. Some shudder at the thought of the unimaginable cold, others at the possibility of doing something extreme. Interestingly, I don't know of any other type of diving that is so infamous and has so many urban legends.
Asfar as I can understand, for non-divers in general it is comparable to the most spectacular competitive sports. What continues to amaze me is that for divers it is the kind of diving that scares them so much.
I have given a working title "Adventures in Diving" to my series of articles about opportunities in diving and the various training courses associated with these activities. After more than thirty years of diving and training, if I had to judge
what dives have provided me with the most memorable experiences, it would be the ice dives. Think about it, why do we go underwater? We get the most stimulus through our eyes and it is the views that provide us with the most fun.
Ice diving in terms of water visibility and views, the play of light and shadow, the atmosphere, outshines all other dives. An ordinary local body of water that has so far not spoilt us with visibility can endow us with an unforgettable dive. The water clarity of a lake, whose water in summer does not exceed 2 metres, can have 10-15 metres of visibility under ice in winter. Reservoirs that have accustomed us to good or very good visibility can take your breath away. Those could be one of the best dives of your life.
When thinking about how to convince you, dear reader, to go ice diving, I started to think about which ice dives, or which bodies of water made the biggest impression on me. It's hard for me to choose just one dive, at once I have five or six that I would like to describe, but that would be an extremely long introduction.
Koparki. [Excavators] This location hardly needs to be introduced to anyone. Famous and named by many after the two main objects originally sunk there. Please think now, have you ever dived at Koparki? Close your eyes and recall what their dimensions
Text and photos DOMINIK DOPIERAŁA, CN Deco
are. How tall is the excavator, how long is it. Did you see it in all its glory, or did you only see a fragment during your dive. Have you ever swum straight from one to the other? While writing this article I fired up a satellite map to check exactly. Do you know what the distance is between the excavators? That winter, the ice held for a long time and the water was still exceptionally clear in autumn. Going for that dive, I knew it would be good. Yet sometimes reality exceeds your expectations. And that's when you know that all the preparation, the training, the failed attempts, were for just that. The water was stunning. But how do I depict it to you in one sentence? I swam away from the shallower excavator towards the other. Once I saw the deeper excavator emerging I turned my head... I could still see the first one. 90 m is what the map on the base's website states, 45 m was what I could see. Such spectacular dives can be done in these conditions.
Ice diving is an adventure, but above all it is a major logistical undertaking. Doing such dives comfortably and safely in only two people is not feasible. A team is needed. When we consider what the minimum size of such team is, it is four people. You can comfortably carry out such dives with six, but the truth is that the coolest dives can be carried out in a large team. I encourage you to get ice diving training from an experienced instructor and take part in organised large ice dives. Originally, when I was putting together the plan for this article, I wondered how much
to write so that I could encourage you to train and dive, and at the same time not discourage you. This unique type of diving, conducted according to the art and with the right equipment, is super safe. However, a lack of knowledge and experience can cause such a dive to end in the worst possible way. One or two people will not gather all the necessary equipment, and even if they do, they will not be able to operate it.
Here I will give you 10 reasons why ice dives need to be skilfully prepared and conducted, and this can ONLY be learned from professionals.
1. CHOOSING A DIVE SITE. The idea of being cold when ice diving is common. But you don't actually freeze in the water. Of course it is cold and we get cold much faster than in summer. In winter you mostly freeze on the surface. Preparing the equipment, preparing and cutting the ice hole. Securing divers from the surface. This is the time when we can to freeze to the bone without even going underwater. Selecting the dive site to suit the experience of the team, the distance to a warm room, hot drinks, even a hot meal is paramount. Without being able to take a break from exposure to the weather, without clothing and footwear, without keeping an eye on the rules and how long we stay outside – we will get cold. And that's without diving in.
2. SELECTING THE SPOT FOR THE ICE HOLE. Leaving aside the others, I will give one rule that strongly facilitates diving afterwards. Divers stay in the ice hole, they go in and out of it and use their fins. The movement of the fins causes the water to move which can lift sediment from the bottom. If you cut a hole in a shallow spot, the water around it will be cloudy just after the first dive of the first team. The first impressions of the dive will be poor. After a few dives and teams, the water will be completely murky and the whole point of the dives collapses. In my experience, the minimum depth of water under the ice hole should be about 10 m. Of course, the deeper the better. Then you are guaranteed that it will be very difficult for the
water to get murky and each subsequent dive and the next team will have great visibility. If you are unsure of the depth at a particular location, simply cut or drill a tiny hole and lower a rope with a weight into it.
3. PREPARING THE SITE FOR THE ICE HOLE. If the ice is not covered with snow then you don't have to work too hard. But if there is snow then snow removal work awaits. First we remove the snow from the place we have chosen to dive. If you have decided on two holes, make sure that the distance between them is not too small, but also not too large. The optimum distance between two holes is 15-25 m. The additional ice holes do not have to be as big as the main one from which you will be diving. The snow should be removed from the ice hole with a diameter of 8-10 m. The additional ice hole can be cleared with a 4-7 m diameter circle. Removing the snow will allow much more light to enter through the ice. That is, the more light we allow under the ice, the more light we will have on the dive. We clear the snow from the corridor between the holes. Then we remove the snow in a way that creates 'rays' coming out from the circle. Kind of like a sunshine. Apart from the light, the snow removal will mean that when we are on the dive we will know exactly which way the hole is. Of course, we can get fancy. Making inscriptions on the snow, directional arrows, circles of different diameters around the hole is perfectly permissible. Don't forget to pack a snow shovel for the trip, or preferably several.
4. SAFETY ON THE ICE. Check the thickness, strength and structure of the ice before you decide to dive, in case it has not been checked beforehand. We never go on ice that has not been checked, especially with a large team. Just because it was okay a week ago doesn't mean it is now. We don't make excursions or walks beyond the places we have checked. The simplest check is to wear a diving suit – in case the ice breaks down – and get on the ice and take ice measurements. We can screw in an ice screw, cut a small triangle and measure the thickness of the 'clean' ice. There are tables of ice strength and these can be used, but remember that they apply to ice that is homogeneous. Once you are sure it is safe, only then do you get on the ice. Remember that it is enough for the ice to be a few centimetres thick to withstand the weight of a person, but not when a hole is made in it. Such punctured ice is much weaker and creates a risk of collapsing. The ice is slippery. This may not be very revealing, but it still surprises many people. It is very easy to fall and get injured as a result. The souvenir of this adventure is supposed to be unforgettable memories, not a plaster cast. We move slowly on the ice, preferably on the part covered with snow. At the ice hole we stand on planks (more on these in a moment). The best thing to do is to get some ice grippers, i.e. non-slip shoe covers. They will guarantee your safety and comfort. Another rule is that you are never alone on the ice. I always give life jackets to everyone who is on the ice and not wearing a suit. They provide visibility and buoyancy when you enter the ice hole. What? Yes exactly. Enter.
5.
It has never happened to me so far during my dives that the ice broke under someone, but I have seen people enter the ice hole many times. Mostly while looking through the camera. When being on the ice for a few hours we become inattentive and the ice hole no longer scares us. We don't slip on the ice (we have ice grippers) and we get bolder and bolder. A moment of inattention is very easy. Remember, your safety is paramount, and when you do get wet, a warm room nearby will be priceless.
CUTTING OUT THE ICE HOLE.
Here I will not go into all of the techniques and possibilities. I will tell you the easiest and fastest way. Triangular ice hole, for many reasons, and you will learn all of them in the training. First you mark the size and shape on the ice, it shouldn't be too small but also no point in making it huge. You screw in a dozen ice screws to make it easier to pull the pieces out of the water, then we cut a small triangle with a chainsaw (specially prepared of course). We lift it up and continue to cut off more pieces of ice. You won't believe but a twenty centimetre thick ice is very heavy. Therefore, the easiest way is to lever it up with planks and pull it up to the surface sheet by sheet like a sled by attaching a rope to the previously screwed in screws. We immediately pull the ice about 3-5 m from the hole and set it vertically around it. This creates a windbreak and there is no mess at the ice hole itself. We never slide a loose sheet of ice under the ice surface. Once the divers are breathing underwater, the bubbles can move such a sheet. Driving into the ice break, it can cut
the thickest rope like scissors. We wouldn't want to be on its end. We pull the ice out.
6. PLANKS. It often makes me laugh when I see pictures of dives and see people lining the edges of the hole with planks. That is, they have an idea but it's not entirely correct. Think about it. If the ice is thick enough to stand on and can withstand the weight of a person despite the hole, then the edge of that ice can easily withstand the weight of a diver. Fixing planks on it can only cause mechanical damage to equipment, holes in suits, jackets. The plank is very necessary in ice diving for protection and support. If you have a triangular ice hole, you need three planks. Each fixed in parallel about two or three metres from the edge of the triangle. The plank has two functions when securing the divers. Firstly, the person who secures the diving team and operates the rope stands on it, not on the ice. As a result, he or she does not freeze from the surface of the ice. Secondly, in a situation requiring an emergency pull of the divers out of the water or an exercise of such a situation, the plank provides a stable and safe support.
7. ROPE. OR RATHER TWO. The main one, from which the dives take place, and a second one, about which in a moment. The rope must be thick and strong. This ensures that the rope does not get tangled and is able to withstand the weight of the dive team. In addition, it is difficult to cut. It should be floating, so that when it is loose it floats upwards. We fix one end permanently, preferably with a secured ice screw. At the other end, we make loops to which we attach divers with carabiners and harnesses. It should be about 30 metres long. It should not be more than 50 metres long, so that it would not drift too far away from the ice hole. A second emergency rope of equal strength and thickness, also floating, should be twice as long as the main one. We fix it permanently in another place secured with an ice screw. We keep it dry in a waterproof bag, protected from getting wet. You can't imagine a worse scenario than the moment when you need
to use such a rope and it is one big lump of ice frozen to the larger ice. Keep in mind that those operating the emergency rope also need to know what they are doing. It is one part of the training but we don't want them to freeze. You need waterproof gloves, preferably insulated, to handle the wet and icy cold rope.
8. RESCUE SKILLS. Knowledge of emergency procedures for all types of diving is important. In ice diving it takes on particular importance. This type of diving can be very safe and even emergency situations such as regulator free-flow can be great fun if we are prepared and trained for them. I would say that practising such situations and running different scenarios during training will prepare you for the specific risks associated with this special type of diving. However, what you learn is not the most important thing. The most important thing is that you apply the rules and don't "grow out" of them. Then the likelihood of something happening to you is minimal. If you come to the conclusion that you already know everything, get carried away and stop using the equipment and knowledge we have about this type of diving, that is your choice and your risk. Looking at such divers always gives me chills.
9. TEAM. I mentioned it before but I would like to emphasise that ice diving is a team. Two people dive, two people are on the surface and secure the dive, two people are on standby to enter the dive. After the first dive, those who dived change and secure the surface. Those who are prepared, dive. Those who held the ropes now prepare their equipment and get ready for entry. After the second dive it will be their turn to enter the water. Those who have just left stay in their suits ready for an emergency entry. Therefore, six people is the minimum sensible team. If there are more of you it strongly simplifies the logistics and speeds up the dives. We do not dive from one ice hole with several ropes. If the team is exceptionally large we make additional ice holes. This of course requires more equipment and people. But really only large ice dives are comfortable and convenient.
10. SECURING THE ICE HOLE AFTER THE ACTION. After the dive we have to take care of other users of the body of water. We do not put the ice back into the hole. We leave a set circle of ice sheets all around. It is to inform others, such as anglers, that there is a hole in the ice and they should not go near it. If you don't leave VISIBLE signs of your presence, a light snowfall will cover your ice hole and could lead to tragedy. It is a good idea to find some roots, sticks, bushes and additionally mark the location of the ice hole. Let's take care of safety.
You will not learn this type of diving from any article, book or film. Conducting ice dives safely and enjoyably requires experience. Have I got you interested in this alternate form of an activity you already know well? Contact your instructor and ask about your next training date. You are a diving instructor and you have not had the opportunity to dive under the ice so far, or you are not sure of your knowledge, I invite you to the Ice Diving Instructor course. Together we will make sure that the level of your courses and safety of your students is at the highest world level. You are welcome to join us.
HOW TO RUIN YOUR REGULATOR BY IMPROVING ITS FUNCTIONALITY
I’m using the sidemount configuration, I’ve bought a small adapter and I’ve put it between the 2nd stage and hose to be able to route the hose better – is that safe?
WHAT'S AN "ADAPTER" OR, MORE PRECISELY, A SWIVEL?
It’s a small element made of the same alloy as your regulator. It comes in 2 versions:
1. Screwed into the 1st regulator stage
2. Screwed into the 2nd regulator stage (these may have different angles, usually 90 and 110 degrees)
Text WOJCIECH A. FILIP Photos TECLINE ACADEMY
WHAT IS THE SWIVEL USED FOR?
In order to change the direction/angle at which the hose leaves the first stage or enters the second stage. Swivels are made both for low and high pressure hoses – in other words, every hose you have in your kit can be combined with a properly selected angle connector.
WHEN WILL A SWIVEL BRING THE MOST POSITIVE CHANGES?
When used on the 1st stage to change the exit direction of the HP hose (connected to the manometer). When used on the 1st stage to change the exit direction of the LP inflator or dry suit hose.
Swivels
Piston-type first stage with a swiveled hose
Tension on the hose
Swivel connected to a diving rig
Photo Tomasz Płociński
Solution for hose tension
WHEN CAN A SWIVEL NEGATIVELY IMPACT SAFETY?
Always when used on the hose of the regulator you’re actually using to breathe. The swivel reduces gas flow, which is particularly important when demand is higher, e.g. during deep dives or in an increased effort situation.
WHEN DOES THE SWIVEL BECOME DANGEROUS?
When you use two swivels on one second stage hose: one screwed into the first stage and a second one screwed into the second stage. Gas flow may be limited to such an extent, that the regulator won’t provide an adequate, safe amount of the gas when needed.
CAUTION!
Everything will work properly when testing your regulator on the surface.
The effects of using 2 swivels:
—increased CO2 levels
—increased gas consumption
—increased stress
—increased susceptibility to narcosis clearly reduced regulator efficiency at highest depths
LET’S CONDUCT SEVERAL LABORATORY TESTS
At Tecline Academy, we conducted a diving simulation using an ANSTI CSTF test device, reaching a depth of 50 m with a ventilation rate of 62.5 l/m. In other words, we conducted a test similar to what all regulators have to complete to obtain EN250A:2014 certification. In simpler words: if the configuration passes the test – it's safe. If not – it shouldn’t be used.
For the test, we used a set of top-notch regulators that allow diving at great depths and under very high loads (Tecline R2/TEC2).
How to easily read test results from the attached charts?
In the lower part of the chart, locate the vertical dashed line, marked as –25 on the left, as well as the MAX label to its right. This corresponds to –25 mbar, indicating a safe level. If the 2nd stage operation curve is at the level of this line or above – the regulator is safe, you can use it.
If the curve is below this line, the regulator may cause breathing difficulties – the more difficult breathing is, the lower the curve.
Dangerous case of using 2 swivels
Regulator with no swivels
Regulator with a swivel only on the 2nd stage
Regulator with a swivel on the 1st and 2nd stage
Always remember to put the breathing resistance adjustment knob in the max (“plus”) position and put the “venturi” lever also in the “plus” position right after descending. The “minus” position will cause effects similar to using 2 swivels at once. Not sure how to do it? You can learn this from the article entitled FREEFLOW – HOW TO USE YOUR REGULATOR: https://issuu. com/perfectdiver/docs/pd_25_ang_ issuu/66?fr=sMzQzNDYxNTI4NDI
Conclusions:
The best, proven and manufacturer-tested regulator parameters may only be obtained without swivels. You might want to see whether changing the hose length or type won't be enough to perfectly adjust your rig. You can safely use swivels on your BCD, dry suit and manometer hoses.
How to check if your configuration or regulator is safe? Get it tested at the Tecline Academy.
A regulator working perfectly on the surface only matters...if you dive on the surface. You might want to see how it performs in a stressful situation: high gas consumption at a high depth.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Having your regulator maintained recently or attaching swivels to brand new gear does not necessarily mean that it will work properly – test your regulator under load.
Make an appointment to test your rig at the Tecline Academy –you will see how your gear performs in stressful situations – and make sure that your configuration is safe.
Can’t come in person? Contact us and send your regulator via courier. We will return the test results with your equipment and send you a description/interpretation via e-mail.
Mind your safety – have your gear inspected and screen the service technician responsible for its maintenance.
