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  • Dive in these Forbidden Locations at your Own Risk!

    Dive in these Forbidden Locations at your Own Risk!

    The forbidden has always appealed to our sub-nature. For divers, our adventurous spirit may find its way toward the road less traveled. These locations are alluring, beautiful, and possibly lethal. Take our advice, and dive into these forbidden locations at your own risk! 

    The Blue Hole of Dahab

    Located in the Red Sea, this infamous dive is known as a diver’s cemetery. It is a submarine sinkhole that reaches depths of approximately 141 meters. The main attraction of this dive is the arch, a passageway to open waters located about 56 meters below the surface. Plenty of divers have lost their lives trying to reach or cross the hook due to nitrogen narcosis, decompression sickness, or running out of air. It is only wise to enter if you are an expert technical dive. These divers use unique gas mixes and follow strict decompression protocols.

    Temple of Doom

    Cenote Calavera (or Skull Cave) is the peak of the Temple of Doom in Mexico and contains a multi-layered halocline. These halocline structures give the cave a spooky look and break off. Three circular openings and a wider oval opening create the skull look at the entrance giving this dangerous cave its name. Cenote Esqueleto, a notorious hole in Tulum, Mexico, features a cavern maze, making navigating difficult and dangerous. It’s not hard to become lost and disoriented inside this underwater labyrinth. Divers must have excellent buoyancy control and cave diving skills to avoid stirring up the silt and reducing visibility.

    Chuuk Lagoon

    This lagoon in Micronesia was once the main naval base of the Japanese Empire during World War II. In 1944, the U.S. Navy attacked and destroyed this base, sinking over 60 ships and hundreds of aircraft. Today, Chuuk Lagoon is one of the world’s most famous wreck diving destinations, offering divers a chance to see History frozen in time. However, diving in Chuuk Lagoon has risks. Many of the wrecks reek with explosives, such as bombs, grenades, mines, torpedoes, and depth charges. These explosives can be unstable and potentially detonate if disturbed by divers. Moreover, some deep wrecks require advanced diving techniques and equipment.

    Devil’s Ear

    This dark, ominously named dive site dwells in Ginnie Springs, Florida. It is part of a complex cave system that connects several springs and rivers. The entrance to Devil’s Ear is a narrow opening that leads to a large chamber with a strong current. Divers must fight against the current to reach a tunnel that descends deeper into the cave. The water temperature is frigid, and the visibility is very low due to tannic acid from decaying vegetation. Divers must also be careful of hydrogen sulfide gas pockets that cause nausea and headaches.

    The Shaft

    This giant cave system’s entrance is through a tiny hole in the middle of a field in Mount Gambier, Australia. It leads down a narrow 8-meter-long shaft to a water-filled cave from which two tunnels, one at either end, descend to depths of 85-120 meters. The tunnels contain stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations that create stunning scenery. However, they are also very dark and narrow, requiring divers to use reels and lights to navigate. The Shaft is only accessible to experienced cave divers with special permits from local authorities.

    Chart an Excursion

    These locations are off-limits to the casual SCUBA diver. For information on charters and exciting tours that are not high-risk, contact By the Shore SCUBA Instruction to see when our next excursion is. You never know what we’ll boil up next. Right now, we are sticking to beautiful paradise locations. For all others, dive into these forbidden locations at your own risk.*

    Disclaimer:By the Shore SCUBA Instruction claims no responsibility for death or injury incurred on diving in these locations. We provide this information for the inquisitive diver, but cannot guarantee your safety if you chose to dive in these locations. There is a likelihood of injury or death from SCUBA diving regardless of safety precautions taken. Dive at your own risk.

     

    Sources-10 Most Dangerous Dive Spots – MapQuest Travel

    10 Deadliest Places to Scuba Dive – Listverse

    The Blue Hole of Dahab on Egypt’s Red Sea is a diver’s cemetery. (slate.com)

    Chuuk Lagoon – History and Facts | History Hit

     

  • Benefits and Risks of Swimming with Dolphins

    Benefits and Risks of Swimming with Dolphins

    Dolphins are amazing creatures that fascinate many people. They are intelligent, social, and playful animals that can communicate with each other using sounds and body language. Some people dream of swimming with dolphins and even scuba diving with them. But is it a good idea to do so? What are the benefits and risks of interacting with dolphins underwater?

    Benefits of Swimming with Dolphins while Scuba Diving

    One of the main benefits of swimming with dolphins while scuba diving is the emotional and psychological impact it can have on you. Many people report feeling a sense of awe, joy, and connection when encountering dolphins in their natural habitat. Some even claim that dolphins heal them, as they can sense their emotions and respond accordingly. Swimming with dolphins can also boost confidence, reduce stress, and improve mood.

    Educational and Environmental Benefits

    Another benefit of swimming with dolphins while scuba diving is the educational and environmental aspects. You can learn much about these animals by observing their behavior, social structure, and communication skills. You can also appreciate the beauty and diversity of the marine ecosystem that they live in. Swimming with dolphins can also raise your awareness and respect for these animals and their conservation needs.

    The risks of swimming with dolphins while scuba diving

    However, swimming with dolphins while scuba diving also has some risks and challenges you should know. One of the main risks is your and the dolphins’ safety and welfare. Dolphins are wild animals that can be unpredictable and aggressive at times. They may bite, ram, or push you if they feel threatened or annoyed by your presence. They may also mistake your scuba gear for toys or food and damage them. You should never touch, feed or chase dolphins, as this can harm or provoke them.

    Ethical and Legal Issues

    The ethical and legal issue is the risk of swimming with dolphins while scuba diving. Some places offer dolphin encounters that involve captive or trained dolphins kept in artificial or confined environments. These practices are often cruel and harmful to the dolphins, depriving them of their natural behavior, social bonds, and freedom. They may also expose them to diseases, stress, and injuries. It would be best to avoid these places and only swim with free and wild dolphins in their natural habitat. You should also check the local regulations and guidelines before you do so, as some areas may prohibit or restrict dolphin interactions.

    The Best Dolphin Encounters

    You are swimming with dolphins while scuba diving can be a wonderful and memorable experience that can enrich your life in many ways. However, it also comes with some risks and responsibilities you should consider before deciding. You should always respect the dolphins and their environment, follow the safety rules and ethical standards, and choose a reputable and responsible operator that offers natural and sustainable dolphin encounters. Check out By the Shore SCUBA Instruction for your SCUBA certification and see when we are charting an excursion for group packages.

    Sources-Areas Of Study – Dolphin Research Center (dolphins.org)

    News Archives – The Dolphin Swim Club

    Dolphins TG (dolphinsfilm.com)

    Humanâ•fiDolphin Encounter Spaces: A Qualitative Investigation of the Geographies and Ethics of Swim-With-The-Dolphins Programs (fsu.edu) 

    https://www.thedailybeast.com/swimming-with-the-dolphins-is-it-love-or-exploitation

     

  • Difference Between SCUBA Diving in Freshwater and Saltwater

    Difference Between SCUBA Diving in Freshwater and Saltwater

    blue dahub, egypt

     

    SCUBA diving enables divers to encounter the distinct geography, marine life, and habitat below the water’s surface. Both freshwater and saltwater SCUBA diving can present unique challenges and sensations. Do you have trouble deciding where to dive first? Here is the difference between SCUBA diving in freshwater and saltwater.

    SCUBA Diving in Freshwater

    Freshwater diving occurs in rivers, lakes, and quarries. In saltwater settings, these ecosystems typically have less visibility, colder temperatures, and fewer marine organisms. Exploration of underwater caverns, swimming with freshwater fish and sea turtles, and looking for historical artifacts are just a few of the unusual experiences that freshwater diving can provide.

    Disadvantages of diving in freshwater

    Freshwater environments often contain fewer marine species than saltwater habitats. Although freshwater visibility can sometimes be better than saltwater visibility, it can also be poor in some circumstances, especially if there is a lot of silt or algae. Due to the cooler temperatures, freshwater diving frequently requires more equipment than saltwater diving, such as heavier wetsuits or dry suits.

    Advantages of diving in freshwater

    Compared to saltwater, freshwater settings can have clear water, but they can also have reduced vision because of silt, algae, or contaminants. Since freshwater habitats are often colder than saltwater ones, diving can be uncomfortable, and demand for thicker wetsuits or dry suits for additional thermal insulation. Due to this, diving may become more expensive and, for some divers, less pleasurable.

    SCUBA Diving in Saltwater

    The usual locations for saltwater diving include coral reefs, oceans, and seas. Warmer conditions, better visibility, and a wider diversity of marine life, including coral, fish, sharks, and sea turtles, are typical characteristics of these settings. Saltwater diving is physically strenuous because of large currents, deeper depths, and more difficult dive planning because of tidal variations.

    Advantages of diving in saltwater

    Abundant marine life, including coral reefs, tropical fish, dolphins, whales, and sea turtles, live in saltwater habitats. Divers can see numerous marine organisms and watch them behave naturally. Diving can be more pleasant because salt water is typically warmer than freshwater, particularly in tropical settings.

    Disadvantages of diving in saltwater

    In warm areas, saltwater can make divers more susceptible to dehydration. Before, during, and after dives, it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Invest in equipment designed to take on extreme temperatures or dark conditions. Investing in equipment may increase dive costs and the need for additional training and expertise.

    Safety First! 

    Complete your training and certification requirements for saltwater and freshwater diving. Abide by safety procedures to ensure a fun and safe dive. Your personal preferences and the kind of diving experience you’re seeking will influence where you go diving. For a secure and memorable diving experience, check out By the Shore SCUBA Instruction.

    Reference Weblinks

    https://dive.site/blog/saltwater-vs-freshwater-diving/#:~:text=Saltwater%20is%20denser%20than%20freshwater,type%20of%20tank%20they%20carry

    https://www.scubadivingearth.com/is-scuba-diving-in-freshwater-different-from-saltwater/

    https://openwaterhq.com/scuba/freshwater-vs-saltwater-diving/

    https://www.social-diving.com/freshwater-vs-saltwater-diving/

  • 5 Best Locations to SCUBA Dive Over Spring Break

    5 Best Locations to SCUBA Dive Over Spring Break

    Tropical fish and corals in Ningaloo reef coast in Western Australia

     

    Spring break is just around the corner, and for all scuba diving enthusiasts, this is the perfect time to explore new underwater worlds. Scuba divers looking for beautiful diving locations, dives, trips, and excursions Spring Break who want to avoid the crowds, check out our 5 Best Locations to SCUBA Dive over Spring Break. In this guide, look at some of the best spots around the world to go diving during this time of year that will provide you with an unforgettable experience. Dive in and explore the five best locations to scuba dive over spring break.

    Ningaloo Reef, Australia

    Ningaloo Reef is one of the most massive fringing reefs in the world, located off the coast of Western Australia. This unforgettable destination offers the opportunity to swim with whale sharks, manta rays, humpback whales, dolphins, turtles, moray eels, rays, and big pelagic fish. The diversity of marine life in Ningaloo Reef makes it an ideal location for experienced scuba divers who want to experience the thrill of swimming with some of the most massive creatures in the ocean.

    Best Spots for scuba diving at Ningaloo Reef:

    ● Muiron Islands

    ● Bundegi Reef

    ● Lighthouse Bay

    Oahu, Hawaii

    Oahu, well-known as the Wreck Capital of Hawaii, is known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and excellent scuba diving spots; clear waters and shallow depth make it an ideal location for beginner scuba divers.

    Best spots for scuba diving in Oahu:

    ● Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

    ● Sharks Cove

    ● Makaha Caverns 

    ● The Sea Tiger Shipwreck

    Tubbataha Reef, Philippines

    Tubbataha Reef is arguably one of the most biodiverse scuba diving locations worldwide. Crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make it an ideal location for experienced scuba divers who want to explore the ocean depths. The reef is home to over 600 varieties of fish, 360 types of coral, and other marine life. You will see the Tubbataha blacktip, whitetip reef sharks, nudibranchs, stingrays, gray nurse sharks, turtles, and large schools of snapper, jackfish, and barracuda. 

    Best spot for scuba diving in Tubbataha Reef:

    ● South Atoll

    Bali

    If you are looking for the most exquisite diving in the world, Bali won’t disappoint. Bali is a popular tourist destination in Indonesia with stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and colorful marine life. These outstanding features make it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced scuba divers.

    Best spots for scuba diving in Bali:

    ● Nusa Penida

    ● Liberty Wreck

    ● Manta Point

    Koh Tao, Thailand

    Our last destination for scuba diving over Spring Break is Koh Tao, a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, and it’s one of the best places to learn scuba diving. The island is home to over 50 dive sites where you can see loads of marine life, including reef sharks, barracudas, and giant groupers. Koh Tao also has a lively nightlife scene, making it an excellent choice for those who want to have fun in and out of the water.

    Bon Voyage!

    Whether you’re a seasoned scuba diving enthusiast or just starting, these five best locations to scuba dive over spring break will offer you an unforgettable experience. Travel with a group for safety and consider booking a group trip. At By The Shore SCUBA Instruction, we occasionally chart group excursions for SCUBA divers. Check out our website for SCUBA classes from our PADI instructor Kevin Alexander and ask him about upcoming adventures! 

    Sources-

    https://scubapro.johnsonoutdoors.com/us/blog/best-places-scuba-dive-us 

    https://www.originaldiving.com/march 

    https://scubapro.johnsonoutdoors.com/us/blog/best-spring-diving 

    https://blog.padi.com/the-top-5-scuba-diving-destinations-in-march-2/ 

    https://blog.volunteerworld.com/7-must-scuba-dive-destinations/ 

    https://www.zubludiving.com/destination/philippines/palawan/tubbataha 

    https://blog.padi.com/6-must-see-dive-sites-on-oahu/ 

    https://www.scubadiving.com/5-best-places-to-dive-in-bali