Perfect Diver Magazine 16 issue

diving

No. 16 4(16)/2021

JULY/AUGUST

Price 12,50 € Tax included

freediving

passion

knowledge

EYE TO EYE WITH THE GIANT MANTA RAYS EL HIERRO

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the foreword

WOJCIECH ZGOŁA

Editor-in-Chief

S

ummer’s here, which means temperature no longer limits how we enjoy water. Visibility is another story, especially in lakes, but either way it’s so much fun and so interesting.

This issue discusses equipment in more detail. Some of this equipment we tested ourselves as the editorial team. We encourage you to take part in any

related events. It’s always easier to buy or entirely abandon the idea of buying something that’s been in your dreams for several nights ;) I’d like to encourage you to read my interview about the new 4baltic Association. It’s also the second time in 3 years that we are writing about the German quarry Hemmoor and also the first time when we investigated and tried to answer the question “Where do mermaids come from?”.

Avid travelers can read about El Hierro, Bali and Egypt. This last destination is seen from the perspective of a safari in the Golden Triangle, with a closing remark that sometimes you can’t see everything you planned to see. Which is fine, in the end, as there’s always a reason to come back and try again.

And finally, the thing that starts this issue. Our cover.

The majestic manta ray was captured by Karola Takes Photos and Laura Kazi shared her thoughts of these animals that establish a relationship with humans.

Go take a dive, enjoy water and nature in its summer entourage. Plan your diving trips and go sightseeing while diving. Close to home and away. The world is a beautiful place, don’t turn a blind eye to its beauty.

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

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ta b l e o f co n t e n t s

32

10 PLANET EARTH 10

Eye to eye with the giant. Manta rays

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Eiders. Soft-feathered divers

TRAVELS 18

Bali under the microscope

26

El Hierro. A great gift for divers

32

Diving safari in the red sea. "Golden Triangle"

OUR CONVERSATIONS 40

QUARRY 44

’Hemmoor virus’

KNOWLEDGE 48

Mermaiding. Mermaid Academy

51

Diver Rescue. How to effectively provide first aid

FREEDIVING

4baltic. Four for Baltic Conversation with Tomek Ramutkowski

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44

54

Static apnoea. Research on athletes

Publisher PERFECT DIVER WOJCIECH ZGOŁA

EQUIPMENT 14

How to select a wetsuit? Tecline PROTERM

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Why dive PRISM2

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Hayne Mist

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ul. Folwarczna 37, 62-081 Przeźmierowo redakcja@perfectdiver.com ISSN 2545-3319

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editor in chief

Wojciech Zgoła

underwater archaeology

Mateusz Popek

publicist, photographer marketing & advertisement english language translators

Bartosz Pszczółkowski Hubert Reiss Agnieszka Gumiela-Pająkowska Arleta Kaźmierczak Reddo Translations Sp. z o.o.

legal care graphic design and composition

Lawyer Joanna Wajsnis Brygida Jackowiak-Rydzak

the magazine was folded with typefaces

Montserrat (Julieta Ulanovsky) Open Sans (Ascender Fonts) Spectral (Production Type) printing Wieland Drukarnia Cyfrowa, Poznań, www.wieland.com.pl

distribution dive centers, online store

preorder@perfectdiver.com

TIPS & CURIOSITIES 64

Useful tips and tricks for beginner technical divers

cover photo

Karola Takes Photos place

Indonesia

www.perfectdiver.com

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The Editorial Office does not return unsolicited materials, is not responsible for the content of advertisements and reserves the right to shorten, edit, title the submitted texts and select illustrative materials. Reprinting of articles or parts thereof, copying only with the consent of the Editorial Board. Editors are not responsible for the form and content of advertisements.

If you like this issue, donate any amount!

Donation is voluntary.

PayPal.Me/perfectdiver PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

5

e d i to r i a l t e a m

WOJCIECH ZGOŁA

HUBERT REISS

He often repeats that he travels by diving and that is his motto. In 1985

An IT specialist by profession, but a flesh and blood salesman who is not

he obtained a yacht sailor's license, and only in 2006 began to dive. In the

afraid of any job. Diving has always been my big dream. At the beginning

following years he improved his skills by obtaining the Dive Master degree.

it was supposed to be a challenge, a short episode but it turned out to be

He completed nearly 650 dives in various climatic conditions. Since 2007, he

a passion for the end of the world and one day longer. Under water I react

has been taking photographs underwater, and since 2008 he has also been

and rest. As a Divemaster, sidemount Razor diver, and recently also a pho-

filming. As an independent journalist, he published dozens of articles, mainly

tographer, I realize my dreams by admiring and immortalizing the beauty of

in journals dedicated to diving, but not only. Co-author of photo exhibitions in

the underwater world. "Passion breeds professionalism, professionalism gives

Poland and abroad. He is passionate about and propagator of diving.

quality, and quality is a luxury in life. Nowadays, especially..."

Since 2008 he has been running his own website www.dive-adventure.eu. On the basis of extensive experience, in August 2018 he created the new Perfect Diver Magazine.

MATEUSZ POPEK

BARTOSZ PSZCZÓŁKOWSKI

”My passion, work and life are under water.” He has been diving since 2009.

That's my name and I come from Poznań. I have been associated with water

Since 2008, he's walking in caves. Underwater archeologist by education.

practically from birth and with diving since I learned to walk. My grandfather

He participated in numerous projects in Poland and abroad. He has been

instilled my passion for the underwater world, a CMAS*** instructor taking

engaged in professional diving since 2011. In 2013 he obtained the quali-

me to the lakes at any free time. I obtained my first qualifications in 1996.

fications of a 2nd class diver. Has experience in underwater work both at

A year later I went to Croatia and literally went crazy at the sight of blue water,

sea and inland. Since 2013 he has been diving in caves, especially in the

octopus and colorful fish;) I bought my first underwater camera – Olympus

mountains, and since 2014 he is a diving instructor CMAS M1. In June 2020,

5060 and started the adventure with underwater photography. I acquired my

he obtained a doctoral degree in underwater archeology.

diving experience in the Canary Islands, Sardinia, Norway, Maldives and in Polish lakes. I am currently a Padi and ESA instructor, I train diving enthusiasts in Europe and pass my passion on to others.

I invite all lovers of the underwater world and photography to Beediver (FB) – see you soon.

co n s ta n t coo p e r at i o n

WOJCIECH A. FILIP

ANNA SOŁODUCHA

SYLWIA KOSMALSKA-JURIEWICZ

Has more than 8000 dives on his account. He

A graduate of Geography faculty at the University

A traveller and a photographer of wild nature.

has been diving for over 30 years, including over

of Wrocław and an incurable optimist… with a per-

A graduate of journalism and a lover of good liter-

20 years as a technical diver. He is a professional

manent smile on her lips! It was probably Destiny

ature. She lives in harmony with nature, promotes

with great theoretical and practical knowledge. He

that led her to Activtour… and she's been here

a healthy lifestyle: she is a yogini and a vegetarian.

is an instructor of many federations: GUE Instruc-

on permanent basis. She passionately fulfils the

Also engaged in ecological projects. Sharks and

tor Mentor, CMAS**, IANTD nTMX, IDCS PADI, EFR,

dreams of many, organizing diving trips around the

their protection are especially close to her heart.

TMX Gas Blender. He participated in many diving

world, and she has already been diving for more

She writes about the subject in numerous articles

projects and conferences as a leader, explorer,

than half of her life. Each year she explores a dif-

and on her blog www.divingandtravel.pl. She be-

originator or lecturer. These included the Britan-

ferent ‘piece of the ocean’, pinning another pin to

gan her adventure with diving fifteen years ago

nic Expedition 2016, Morpheus Cave Scientific

her diving world map. In winter she changes fins

by total coincidence. Today she is a Divemaster,

Project on Croatia caves, GROM Expedition in

into her beloved skis and gets away into the Alps.

she visited over 60 countries and dived on 5 con-

Narvik, Tuna Mine Deep Dive, Glavas Cave in Croa-

A recipe for life? ”The only a dead trunk flows with

tinents. She invites us for a joint journey with the

tia, NOA-MARINE. Professionally, he is a technical

the current – the explorer's canoe flows up the river!”

travel agency www.dive-away.pl, of which she is

director at TecLine in Scubatech, and a director of

anna@activtour.pl

a co-founder.

training at TecLine Academy.

activtour.pl; travel.activtour.pl; 2bieguny.com

KAROLA TAKES PHOTOS

JAKUB DEGEE

MICHAL ČERNÝ

Karolina Sztaba, and professionally Karola Takes

Polish photographer, winner of awards and dis-

"Wet photos" – He has photographed since he

Photos, is a photographer by education and pas-

tinctions in world underwater photography com-

remembers. After several years of experience as

sion. She is currently working at the Trawangan

petitions, has already dived all over the world: with

a diver, he wanted to keep memories of underwa-

Dive Center on a tiny island in Indonesia – Gili

sharks and whales in South Africa, with orcs be-

ter dives. He bought his first compact camera with

Trawangan, where she moved to live four years

hind the Arctic Circle, on Galapagos with hundreds

an underwater housing. Over time, however, the

ago. She photographs above and below the wa-

of hammerhead sharks and humpback whales in

desire to have the best photo began to dominate,

ter. In addition, she creates photographic proj-

the Tonga Islands. He participates in specialist

which was not quite possible with the compact

ects against littering the oceans and polluting

photographic workshops. He has been diving for

he used. That's why he switched to the Olympus

our planet with plastic ("Trapped", "Trashion").

27 years, he started at the age of 12 – as soon as

PEN E-PL 5 reflex camera, which allows the use of

She cooperates with NBO organizations dealing

it was formally possible. He was the first in the

several different lenses. He uses a combination

with environmental protection and actively partic-

world to use the Hasselblad X1d-50c camera for

of underwater flashes and lights. He focuses on

ipates in pro-ecological actions (coral protection,

underwater macro photography. Recently, in the

wildlife photography, not arrangement. He photo-

coral planting, cleaning the world, protection of

remote Chincorro archipelago on the border be-

graphs in fresh domestic waters as well as in the

endangered species). She is also the official pho-

tween Mexico and Belize, he did it again, taking

seas and oceans of the world.

tographer of Ocean Mimic – a brand that creates

a successful attempt to photograph the eye of

He has already won numerous awards at Czech

swimwear and surfwear from rubbish collected

a crocodile with a macro lens with an additional

and foreign photography competitions. More

on the beaches of Bali. She cooperated with many

magnifying lens, which is the world's largest photo

photos can be found on his website, where you

brands of diving equipment for which she created

of the crocodile's eye living in the wild (in terms of

can also buy them not only as photos, but also as

advertising campaigns. In 2019, she became the

pixel count, print size, quality).

photos printed on canvas or on another medium.

ambassador of the Polish company Tecline.

www.mokrefotky.cz

She has been a technical diver for two years.

www.facebook.com/MichalCernyPhotography www.instagram.com/michalcerny_photography/

co n s ta n t coo p e r at i o n

WOJCIECH JAROSZ

AGNIESZKA KALSKA

LAURA KAZIMIERSKA

A graduate of two Poznan universities, the Acad-

”I can't imagine living without water, where in a free

Laura Kazimierska is currently working as PADI

emy of Physical Education (coaching specializa-

body I experience freedom of the spirit.”

Course Director at TrawanganDive Center on the

tion – handball) and the University of A.Mickiewicz, Faculty of Biology (specialty of experimental biology). He connected his professional life with this first university trying to influence the direction of development of future professionals on the one hand, and on the other planning and implement-

• founder of the first freediving and swimming school in Poland – FREEBODY, • Apnea Academia International and PADI Master Freediver freediving instructor, • world record holder in freediving (DYN 253 m),

Indonesian island of Gili Trawangan. Founder of the Divemastergilis portal. www.divemastergilis.com @divemastergilis For over 7 years she has lived and discovered the underwater world of Indonesia. She is not only an avid technical diver, but also the face of the

ing research, pushing laboriously in the right di-

• record holder and Polish champion, member

Planet Heroes platform and the ambassador of

rection of the stroller called science. In his free

of the national team in freediving 2013–2019,

the Ocean Mimic brand. She actively contributes

time he spends his time actively – his main pas-

• winner of the World Championships in freed-

to the promotion of the protection of corals and

sions are sailing (sea helmsman), skiing (downhill

iving 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2018,

the natural environment of fish and marine an-

skiing instructor), riding a motorcycle, recreational

• multimedalist of the Polish Championships

imals by taking part in scientific projects, cam-

diving and many other activities, as well as pho-

and a member of the national team in swim-

paigns against ocean littering and cooperating

tography, mainly nature.

ming in the years 1998–2003,

with NGOs in Indonesia.

• passionate about freediving and swimming.

@laura_kazi

AGATA TUROWICZ-CYBULA

ADRIAN JURIEWICZ

IRENA KOSOWSKA

Since I was a child, I had dreamed of becoming

A traveler, photographer and the underwater

Regional Manager Divers Alert Network Polska,

a marine biologist and I managed to fulfill that

world filmmaker, an Asian cuisine enthusiast

diving and first aid instructor, technical diver and

dream. I did a degree in oceanography, where

and a PADI diving instructor. He visited over

cave diver. In love with all flooded, dark, cold,

I recently started my doctoral studies. My diving

70 countries and dived on 5 continents (the

tight places and invariably from the beginning

adventure began when I was 12 years old. I love

other two are planned for next year's expedi-

of the diving route – in the Baltic. Implementing

observing the underwater life up close and I try to

tions). For several years he has also been an

the DAN mission, he conducts a series of lectures

show other divers how fascinating the underwa-

instructor and trainer of the unmanned aircraft

”Dive safely” and Diving Safety Laboratory, so field

ter, Baltic creatures are.

flights. A co-author of a travel agency for divers

research of divers for scientific purposes.

www.dive-away.pl. He documents his expeditions with photos and descriptions of his journeys on his blog www.divingandtravel.pl

o u r au t h o r s

ALEŠ KOŠTOMAJ

MICHAL ŠTROS

AGNIESZKA BLANDZI

My name is Aleš Koštomaj. I'm from Slovenia (Eu-

The author is biologist by profession, involved in

A doctor of philosophy by education, a byzantol-

rope). I was born 1978 (43 years old) in city Cel-

cancer research at the Czech Academy of Scienc-

ogist, for ten years with great passion a technical

je. From what I can remember I loved snorkeling

es in Brno. His profession enabled him to travel

and cave diver, a passionate underwater archae-

and freediving. I studied at the Faculty of Sports

around the globe and to visit places which are

ologist.

in Ljubljana, where I became more professionally

also regarded as the best dive sites. Underwater

Every day, she advises companies on how to cre-

acquainted with freediving. At first I was active in

photography became a part of his life since he

ate their business image, also deals with public

spearfishing (between 2001 and 2009), and then

dove the Great Barrier Reef of Australia. His ”pet“

relation and brand promotion. She constantly

for a few years I completely focused on freediving.

is Canon 80D (Ikelite housing, ”fish eye“, 60 mm

tries to acquire knowledge, train and dive as of-

Between 2009 and 2016, I trained and competed

and 100mm macro lenses, Subsee diopters and

ten as possible – live consciously with care for the

in freediving. My biggest success is a 3rd place in

snoot RETRA), as well as the Photoshop editing

balance of body and spirit. Favorite waters are

CWT (AIDA international world) in Croatia (Lopar,

software. He received an “Honorary Mention” on

Polish diving sites, Ohrid Lake in Macedonia, the

2011). In 2017, I received my master’s degree from

one of the most the prestigious underwater photo

Baltic Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.

the Faculty of Sports and became a master of sci-

contest, Ocean Art 2020 (Underwater Art). Some

ence in freediving. Since 2017, I no longer compete

of his underwater photos are processed by cre-

but I love discovering the underwater world with

ative tools, by combination of underwater pho-

an underwater camera in freediving and I also do

tography and digital software to create captivating

researches with top Slovenian freedivers (Samo

– sometime even surrealist – images.

Jeranko, Andrej Ropret, Jure Daić...).

His photos are regularly published in scuba diving

So far, I have the highest scientific education in

magazines and presented at exhibitions. He be-

freediving in Slovenia (Mag. Aleš Koštomaj).

lieves that exhibiting of underwater photos to the public could increase social awareness towards marine conservation. More underwater photos, as well as information about the author, are to be found on his website http://michalstros.cz

MARIUSZ BEBEL (Morox) Diver TMX Instructor MSTD PADI Master IDF instructor, and this year also a Technical Instructor.

In 2015, I opened a diving club, which in 2016 turned into a diving school under the same name "Octopus". Together with friends, we came up with the name when we were returning by bus from diving in Tyrol. It has stayed that way, and the friends with whom we continue to dive a lot were also positively crazy. We try to infect our passion for diving. The school's headquarters and office are in Hamburg, and we have a branch in Hemmoor.

ADVERTISEMENT

DIVING CENTER DIVING SCHOOL

planet earth

Eye to eye with the giant MANTA RAYS Text LAURA KAZIMIERSKA Photos KAROLA TAKES PHOTOS

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planet earth

T

hey have been traversing our oceans for over five million years. They delight divers with their intelligence and grace. Manta, relatives of

sharks, feed on plankton and are also among the largest rays in the world.

My meeting with Manta on Komodo was almost a spiritual experience.

I have seen them in other parts of Indonesia before, like Nusa Penida, but I have never been so close to them alone. At my fingertips, they presented

interesting facts

Manta in literal translation means a cape or blanket. Indeed, they are floating magic carpets undulating in the currents of the sea. They captivate, surprise and hypnotize anyone who comes underwater with them.

their spotted bellies to me, they danced effortlessly on strong currents while we held tight to the ground, hiding behind the rocks of the coral reef to keep us from being blown away. I made eye contact with one of them and felt myself melt from the inside out. It was something incredibly mystical. We stared at each other for a few seconds, then suddenly it swam away, only to return to the same place in a moment and watch me a little

The largest Manta recorded by scientists comes from the Oceanic Manta Ray, its "wingspan" is over 9 meters. Just to compare, the two-story building is about 8.3 meters high.

more. I was tied to the hook that divers once used in the strong Komodo currents, and in all this excitement, I raised my hands as if I was going to fly and began to move gently from side to side. Imagine my surprise when I saw that a stingray levitating next to me began to copy my movements.

Maybe it was a coincidence, although I got the impression that it knew exactly what was going on, and that it did not fear my presence and decided to have a little fun.

Among the species, there are individuals with a unique coloration. The ones that are mostly black are called by divers Ninja Mantas. White manta rays, the so-called albinos, appear very seldom. To see one white manta while diving is like winning the lottery.

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

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planet earth

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ADVERTISEMENT

Manta rays are extremely intelligent creatures that form strong social bonds. Divers often report unique interactions with these sea creatures. You can enjoy them by diving in the Maldives, Mexico, Indonesia, Hawaii and many other tropical destinations.

Manta rays are an endangered species due to the huge demand for their bronchial rake, which is used in natural Chinese medicine. It happens that they accidentally fall

Each manta has a unique pattern of spots on its ventral surface that remains largely unchanged throughout life. Spots unique to an individual facilitate the identification of migrating rays. And they travel quite a lot, sometimes over 200 kilometers.

prey to fishing nets intended for catching other fish. Due to the enormous pollution of the oceans, they are increasingly swallowing toxic micro-plastic, which, together with plankton, ends up in their digestive system.

Despite the fact that they have been with us for millions of years, scientists are constantly discovering new facts about their behaviour, life cycle and migration. This knowledge contributes to the geographically defined protection of the species. And it is definitely worth protecting them. Not only because of their extraordinary nature, but also for the economy. It is estimated that the income from the living Manta rays is estimated to be around $ 1 million in diving tourism, while a dead Manta only costs $ 500.

Thanks to a project led by the Manta Trust organization (www. mantatrust.org), you have the chance to submit photos of mantas as seen anywhere in the world and contribute to the research and conservation efforts of this amazing species. You can also get information about the manta ray you have encountered, and if it is not already in the database, register the new manta and give it a name.

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

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sponsored article

How to select a wetsuit?

TECLINE PROTERM wetsuit for instructors and advanced recreational divers How is it that a wetsuit stays “warm”?

in several key areas: ● around the wrists

ter gets inside, but more importantly, when

tense diving an instructor has to do?

● near the feet at the ankles

the water heated by the body does not

Which features of the suit will allow it to be

● around the diver’s neck

leak out.

This is first ensured by special ”smart

used with a harness and plate?

14

The suit will seem warm when little wa-

How to select a wetsuit appropriate for the in-

How is it that the suit is warm?

neoprene” that fits snugly to the diver’s body

Warm wetsuit

Water enters between the diver’s body and

when it is 5 or 7 mm thick, while the plush

Great thermal comfort is only guaranteed by

the suit, where it is warmed through contact

layer on the side will keep the heated water

a wetsuit that fits closely to the diver’s body

with the diver’s body.

warm for longer.

Photo Bartek Trzciński

sponsored article

Another equally important feature is to ensure that the end parts of the sleeves and legs of the suit fit tightly around the body, equipped with the so-called “seals” (double sleeves and legs).

Additionally, the suit should be equipped with a flap sealing the main zipper, which should prevent water from flowing freely into the suit while diving.

Instructors and advanced recreational divers select their suits by checking if they fit the body closely at the: ● wrists ● ankles ● neck An important feature of the suit is its cross main zipper with a special seal.

How can you regulate thermal comfort in a wetsuit?

Main suit zipper – vertical or cross?

You can use the zippers at your wrists, an-

rig (plate or jacket), which makes it much more

kles and neck.

leak-tight as compared to a vertical zipper.

High quality suits are sealed tightly in

A cross zipper is pressed tighter to the diver’s body by their

Because the vertical zipper runs along the

these areas with smooth neoprene. If

spine, it remains loose for the entire time of

such areas are additionally sealed

diving, particularly at the lumbar spine.

with a short zipper, the water heat-

Therefore, it is easier for cold

ed by the diver’s body warmth will

water to get between the div-

be unable to leak through the suit,

er’s body and the suit.

keeping you warm for longer.

If you use the suit in tropical water or you are too hot, you can unzip the additional sealing zippers partially or completely.

To decrease thermal comfort, start with the zippers at the ankles, then unzip those at the wrists and finally

those

at

Frequent use of zippers requires those most durable and resistant to intensive use under any conditions. Japanese YKK zippers provide such parameters.

the neck.

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

15

sponsored article

Additionally, thermal comfort may be regulated by choosing between 5 and 7 mm neoprene suits. If you intend to dive in cold water, you’ll want to consider using an additional insulation vest that you wear on the suit, which is equipped with a warm integrated hood.

Vests are also made of 5 mm or 7 mm neoprene, which allows you to configure your suit according to your individual needs, e.g. 7 mm suit + 5 mm vest.

A vest with an additionally sealed main zipper and a hood with a special labyrinth valve can be used separately from the suit when diving in a swimming pool or in tropical water.

You should definitely consider supplementing your

so that dozens of diving sessions will not damage the suit, ensuring high work comfort.

When diving in a Proterm wetsuit, divers who use technical configurations can safely

Proterm suit with neo-

Instructors present their skills to student

use every type of harness. Proterm suit shoul-

prene boots, gloves and

divers on training platforms on numerous oc-

ders were reinforced with Kevlar to increase

the additional Proterm

casions. Proterm was additionally equipped

the comfort of a diver using heavier equip-

hood made of the same

with Kevlar reinforcement on the knees and

ment, and to endure putting on and taking

SMART NEOPRENE as the

lower legs, which does not restrain movement,

off of your “DIR” type harnesses repeatedly.

main suit.

16

Selecting the cut and durability of the suit to match the special needs of instructors and advanced recreational divers.

sponsored article

The sleeves and the sideline of the suit were modified to facilitate reaching over your head to operate the twinset valves. The leg shape sets the diver’s legs in a slightly bent position, supporting good trim and movement techniques that require moving fins away from the silty bed.

Proterm seams that allow to move freely were also secured with additional patches.

In short, a wetsuit should have the following features: ● flexible and closely-fitting neoprene; ● as tight as possible legs at the ankles and sleeves at the wrists; ● additional zippers allowing to adjust fit and comfort in water.

Selecting a wetsuit – mistakes you can make ● trying on a dry suit at the store (this way, the suit will always seem to be very warm) ● avoiding suits that are tighter at the wrists and feet (putting on and taking off the suit very easily means low thermal comfort in the water) ● not testing before you buy (entering the water with the suit on may be crucial for your decision, e.g. it might turn out that a well-fitted 5 mm wetsuit may be warm enough for your needs).

Important note for advanced divers who use wetsuits and “jet” fins.

Even the highest quality neoprene that the suit is made of compresses when underwater.

Typical “jet” fins make the diver’s legs fall ever more as the depth increases (neoprene buoyancy decreases and the fins have negative buoyancy).

As a result, you might encounter problems when diving in places with silty bed or, for instance, in the caves in Mexico, where wetsuits are commonly used.

Tecline Lightjet fins might be the solution – they were developed for divers who use various effective movement techniques when wearing a wetsuit.

They have positive buoyancy and help the diver maintain a good trim in a wetsuit.

The perfect solution is to TEST the TECLINE PROTERM SUIT and PROTERM INSULATION VESTS while using the LIGHTJET FINS. Test suits and fins are available at all Tecline stores and at the Tecline Academy.

Photos on pages 14–17 Miłosz Stępkowski

Photo Bartek Trzciński

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

17

t r av e l s

BALI under the microscope Text and photos MICHAL ŠTROS

18

travels

Borneo

Sumatra

Celebes Papua

BALI Java

Bali is an island of gods and demons, a paradise for those eager for extraordinary adventures.

It acts upon all your senses: with its rice terraces saturated with green, smiling people, fascinating music of the gamelan – traditional xylophones, the ponds in temple gardens covered with lotus flowers, traditional Balinese cuisine and perfect diving conditions.

L

USAT LIBERTY USAT Liberty was an American Navy ship that was hit by a Japanese submarine torpedo in the Lombok Strait on the way back to the Philippines during the World War II. Severely damaged, the ship could not be towed to Singaraja in the north of Bali, so she anchored off Tulamben. The next chapter of USAT Liberty’s story began in 1963, when a lava flow from a massive eruption of the nearby Agung volcano pushed the anchored ship about 30 meters off the coast, where she lies until today.

ast fall, after a longer break, I returned to the Indone-

The wreck lies at 5–30 meters, it is completely covered with

sian island of Bali. Unlike the last time, during this visit

a layer of soft and hard coral, here and there also covered

I focused more on diving than on sightseeing in this

with majestic sponges. USAT Liberty is inhabited by countless

lovely place full of temples and smiling people. And although

species of sea creatures, including turtles, ribbontail rays, fish

the main purpose of my visit was underwater macro photogra-

from the Serranide family and enormous schools of bumphead

phy, I just could not miss the chance to take a wide-angle cam-

parrotfish. It is best to begin diving at the wreck short before

era for a couple of dives. One of the most famous ship wreck

dawn or just after dusk. Many divers and photographers come

in the world, the USAT Liberty, was a compelling temptation.

to Bali just to dive in locations for macro photography lovers, as

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well as to see and capture the smallest sea creatures. Thus, underwater macro photography is becoming a global phenomenon, attracting divers from around the world.

BALI – A PARADISE FOR MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY Macro photography locations at Pemuteran, Tulamben and Padang Bai are without exaggeration one of the most beautiful diving sites inhabited by the smallest “beauties and beasts” on our planet. Whereas the seabed at Tulamben and Pemuteran is covered with

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podróże

black volcanic sand, the sand near Padang Bai is mostly white.

JETTY AT THE PADANG BAI

For those of you who are used to embarking on a comfortable

You may be wondering, why am I dedicating a separate para-

boat before diving, I have bad news: here almost all dives are

graph to a single location in Bali, which at first sight does not

done from the shore. The good news is that, for a small charge,

look like typical diving sites in turquoise waters, with white or

you can have your heavy equipment carried to the beach. To

dark sand, amazingly colored coral reefs and loads of trop-

my great surprise, the equipment was carried mostly by petite

ical fish. Indeed, the Jetty location at Padang Bai is different

women from nearby villages, and some were even able to carry

from other places for macro photography lovers and I must

two cylinders at the same time. A dollar for having your diving

admit that when I snorkeled there for the first time years ago, it

gear carried might not seem a lot, but for the local people it

seemed rather obnoxious at the water surface. Originally, Jetty

provides material and, above all, regular income.

was intended as a port for large tourist ships, with massive

An absolute phenomenon among Balinese macro photog-

piles dug into the sandy sea bed. However, the bed turned

raphy sites is Seraya Secret which – in terms of the number and

out to be so unstable that the idea never came into being.

the diversity of small sea creatures – can only be outperformed

Currently, only fishermen moor here, so at the sea bed you

by the Lembeh Strait in northern Sulawesi (Indonesia) and, to

can see lots of nets, hooks, and fish skeletons. The water here

some extent, locations in the Philippines (Anilao and Duma-

is muddy and dark, the waves at the bottom toss you around,

guete). When diving in Seraya Secret, you can spend hours on

although it does not make such an awful impression on the

exploring its seabed, covered with black volcanic sand, looking

sandy bottom as the one made on the surface; this is a very

for little living creatures. If you find a good local guide, with a bit

odd and mysterious place. You might be asking yourselves why

of luck you will see not only a swarm of small animals but also

this particular location should be so fascinating from the point

a pygmy seahorse, rare specimens of octopuses or a harlequin

of view of underwater macro photography? Well, the answer

shrimp (lat. Hymenocera picta).

is simple: due to the diversity of sea creatures inhabiting this

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place. From the long list of species inhabiting Jetty, let me men-

Besides shrimps, macro photography sites also feature

tion at least the nudibranch sea slugs in all colors, shapes and

many species of crabs in different sizes. Among the smallest,

sizes; Flabellina; ghost pipefish; broadnosed pipefish; frogfish;

there is Lauriea siagiani or hairy squad lobster. Its body is almost

reef stonefish and scorpionfish.

completely transparent and covered with white hair, hiding shiny violet spots. Crabs are very shy and usually hide from

SLEEPING BEAUTIES – SHRIMPS

curious divers and photographers in cavities of sponges (lat.

In Tulamben and its surroundings (Seraya Secret, Melasti,

Xestospongia). Others, e.g. porcelain anemone crab (lat. Neop-

Amed, Coral Garden and Drop-off locations), you may see small

etrolisthes ohshimai) hide in anemones.

shrimps and crabs who have perfectly adapted to living on a sandy sea bed or reefs. Harlequin, which can probably only

NUDIBRANCH – VIVID COLORS OF A MACRO PHOTO-

be found in Bali at Seraya Secret, is without a doubt the most

GRAPHY SITE

beautiful of all shrimps. Yet appearances can be deceptive:

When diving, it is rather hard to miss nudibranch slugs due to

despite its beauty, harlequin is a ferocious predator. It feeds

their sharp colors. With their diversity and number, you can

exclusively on starfish and even a significantly larger crown-of-

be sure to meet new species during each dive. At the Seraya

thorns cannot be sure to survive an encounter with harlequin.

Secret location, I had my first chance to photograph a Doto

The effectiveness of harlequin’s strategy is due to the fact that

greenamyeri nudibranch, a species only discovered recently,

they attack a starfish in pairs, whereby each shrimp employs

which was 1.5 cm large. It looks like a donut, and hence its

a different hunting method. The captured starfish is then being

name: donut nudibranch. Its body looks like consisting of six

eaten alive by the two shrimps, which may take many weeks.

donuts one next to another and at first sight, it is difficult to

You may also spot tiny Thor amboinensis shrimps hidden

tell the head from the tail. It exclusively inhabits hydrozoans

in anemones. They are sometimes called sexy shrimps due to their characteristic movements similar to belly dance.

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(phylum Cnidaria) whom they eat, by the way.

For capturing nudibranch slugs and other species in macro photography sites, a camera with APS-C, 100 mm macro lens and maybe dioptric lenses (e.g. Subsee). For artistic underwater photography, I strongly recommend a snoot. This is a special attachment to the external flash, a set of lenses, to reduce the flash beam and reduces the distracting background (more on this technique in Perfect Diver 3/2021).

Not all beauties and beasts in macro photography locations are small; some of them are 10 and more centimeters long, like e.g. leaf scorpionfish (lat. Taenianotus triacanthus). Its body is almost flat, it moves very gently, imitating a dried leaf plunging on a wave. Conscious of its perfect camouflage, it is not rushing anywhere – just waiting for the prey to come closer.

PEACOCK MANTIS SHRIMP – A STARTLING INHABITANT OF MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS Among other living creatures found in locations for macro photography lovers, one should surely mention mantis shrimps, with a body length of 10–20 cm; it is every diver’s dream to spot one. The most awe-inspiring mantis shrimp, the peacock mantis shrimp (lat. Odontodactylus scyllarus) can usually be seen only when it leaves its hiding place. Its hunting method

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requires utmost precision. Its perfect spatial orientation and absolutely exceptional color vision is very helpful. The blue eyes of the mantis shrimp move independently all the time, and their complex build and the capability to distinguish different wave lengths of colors outperform even the human eye.

Mantis shrimps are sometimes called shrimp assassins. They can crush its prey with one punch of the front extremities shot at the speed of 23 meters per second. If they are capable of crushing a crab or a shrimp, they can easily break a diver’s fingers. So it is best to keep away from it. There is nothing like a good piece of advice but under water, in the rush of taking pictures and admiring their incredible colors, I tend to forget it in a second.

TRADITIONAL SEA SALT MANUFACTURING After diving, I spent two more days visiting places I had not been able to see during my last travel to Bali. Among others, I visited small salt-producing homesteads in Ameda and Kusamba (near Padang Bai). Reportedly, Bali inhabitants have been producing salt for a thousand years but with time, there are less and less families ready to commit themselves to this hard and not very lucrative work. Everyday routine begins

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by drawing sea water into buckets, filtering it in bamboo funnels filled with clay and pouring them into larger containers sunk in the ground, where the water partially evaporates in the sunlight. The resulting brine is re-filtered and poured into coconut shell halves – troughs from where the remaining water evaporates and the crystal salt dries. Average salt output in such family steadings amounts to about five buckets in two days, and taking into consideration the price – half a dollar per kilogram of salt – it only allows for a modest living.

A FEW FINAL WORDS Diving in Bali provides endless occasions to experience real adventure – surrounded by those tiniest creatures, as well as gracefully passing devilfish and gigantic sunfish emerging from the depths of the ocean. Marvelous landscapes, smiling and friendly people, traditional Balinese culture, the diversity of temples, perfect diving sites and loads of uncommon attractions are truly entrancing. That is why it is so easy to fall in love with Bali forever.

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El Hierro

A GREAT GIFT FOR DIVERS Text AGNIESZKA BLANDZI Photos KRZYSZTOF FLIS

CANARY ISLANDS

Lanzarote

La Palma

Unfortunately, a ticket for tourists is much more expensive,

Tenerife La Gomera

Gran Canaria

Fuerteventura

EL HIERRO

but as everywhere you may "hunt” for last minute tickets and you will probably buy something for less than 80 euros. You can also take a 3-hour ferry trip, but unfortunately, in our case, the time of the arrival from Poland ruled this possibility out.

The first impression, of course, as in the whole Canaries is that it is windy and hot. It was the strong winds and a weather front full of clouds and fog moving through Tenerife that caused our flight delay. El Hierro welcomed us with turquoise

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Africa

skies, but the wind was getting even stronger. We anxiously watched the white crests of waves rushing across the Atlantic,

e landed on El Hierro 40 minutes late. Not much,

wondering how our dive would be like. At the airport, most

but when you know that the whole team is waiting

passengers lined up for the Cicar (Canary Islands Car) rental

for us at the dive base to go diving, it is a lot. And

car office, a necessity here to get around between towns. After

we still had to drive from the north of the island to its south-

a while we started the journey through the very mountainous

ern point, to La Restinga, known primarily for its incredibly

and undulating interior. In places the landscape resembled

attractive dive sites. The road was about 40 km long and the

Scotland due to green hills, low walls separating fields, sheep,

drive was going to take almost an hour. Why? We were about

brown and black, curious cows. After studying the map for

to find out.

a while, I realised that the hills are actually dormant volcanoes,

We flew to El Hierro, the westernmost island of the Canary

of which there are more than 500 on the island, and as many

Islands, from Tenerife. The trip with the local airlines Binter

as 200 underwater. Some of them slowed down our journey.

Canarias takes 40 minutes and costs just 30 euros for locals.

The map with the marked volcanoes indicated that we passed

travels

El Bajon

"only" 17 of them. Along the way, we encountered a local vari-

morning, through the window of my room, I watched boats

ation of the Battle of the Wall described by Fredro in the book

with divers setting sail, during the day we met people in diving

"The Revenge". On El Hierro there is, of course, a dispute over

suits and wet suits, and in the evening, from the windows, we

a volcano, between brothers quarrelling over land. As a result,

saw the light of torches in the waters of the harbour basin.

the H-400 volcano was decorated with a neat wall, because it

Let us add that this pool is home to three turtles, too lazy to

belongs to two families. It is such a local peculiarity. Despite the

forage in the ocean. And you do not have to dive to see them,

hurry we had on our way to La Restinga, we could not ignore

as they often swim on the surface of the water when they

the amazing spectacle of nature called here the "sea of clouds".

get curious. The well-maintained harbour basin, with good

As we climbed slowly up the winding roads of the Valvedere

infrastructure and a gentle descent, also serves as a training

mountain range, this sea of clouds suddenly appeared at our

area for beginner divers; you can control balance here, do

feet, full of golden and silver reflections, completely covering

a "check dive", or just swim with turtles. The harbour waters

the ground. It was just amazing.

are crystal clear, surrounded by picturesque high black cliffs,

The closer we got to the southern part of the island, the more it felt like being at the end of the world. Behind us remained the wonderful green hills of El Pinar covered with pine forests. Here we entered another sea, this time of solidified lava. From now on we were accompanied by brown and black lava waves frozen in a sudden jump, a strong salty wind and wonderful sunshine. The southernmost point of the island is the headland with the harbour and fishing village of La Restinga. However, among the pictograms on the map, diving is marked as the first and primary attraction of this place. And this is indeed the case. La Restinga has the atmosphere so favoured by divers of a huge dive base. Along the quay, every dozen meters or so, diving bases invite you, guesthouses are accompanied by the names of diving clubs, in the surrounding pubs and cafés we meet our boat-diving companions. In the

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El Desierto

Baja del Camello

El Salto

El Salto

with small beaches. It is simply a dream place to relax before and after diving.

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Our journey from the dive base to the jetty also took just 5 minutes, the equipment was efficiently loaded and here we

We rushed into our base in the centre of La Restinga out

were in the boat, jumping over the waves, in the gush of sea

of breath, but everyone was waiting for us. Most of the dive

water on our way to El Salto dive site. Our initial fears about

centres here are really well set up. They consist of an office

the foaming waters of the ocean proved to be unnecessary.

and training area situated above the street line, and a second

Poseidon took care of us and prepared a special place for div-

area below the street line with dive equipment, a compressor

ing enthusiasts. Around la Restinga extends the "Mar de las

room, elegant changing rooms, showers and a few pools for

Calmas" (sea of calmness). From the cape to the lighthouse

rinsing the equipment. Divers are attracted here by conditions

Faro de Orchilla we can see the calm waters of the Atlantic,

that every one of us dreams of, especially those tired of the

free from large waves. It looks amazing, and gives divers as

Polish long winters and cold springs. The water temperature

many as 40 kilometres of relatively calm waters. Even in strong

in May is about 20°C and does not change regardless of the

winds, diving in the bays along the coast is very comfortable

depth. No wonder that the tradition of diving is very long here.

and incredibly spectacular. The abundance of magnificent sea

The dive base Centro de Buceo El Hierro, with which we went

creatures is further guaranteed here by the Reserva Marina,

underwater, was established in 1978, and its owner, Iñaki

which covers the area of the underwater volcanic zone. Thanks

Cayón Casla, continues to show divers the delights of the un-

to these conditions, the area around La Restinga is considered

dersea. The base has 12 and 15-litre steel cylinders available,

to be the best diving site in the Canary Islands. What is more,

with two or one valve, and offers nitrox or air. Departures

the Open Foto Sub, a world-famous festival of underwater

from the harbour are usually organised twice a day, before

photography, also takes place here. Although we have dived

noon. Most of the local dive bases are only 300–500 metres

many times in the Atlantic, the few dive sites (and there are

from the quay, with accommodation, cafés and shops also

more than 40 available places) that we had the opportunity to

within easy reach.

see gave us a striking impression. We reached the El Salto dive

travels

El Bajon

site after a 5 minute swim. On the boat we had the company of divers from Germany, France and Spain dressed in wet suits with hoods.

You can see that the special difficulty of diving in sea water was not something surprising to them. Despite the waves and surface current we entered and went out of the boat without any problems. However, we quickly realised our mistake: we could have put on dry suits but without thermal insulation, our thermal underwear was enough. The water was 20 degrees, regardless of the depth, and the surface temperature, despite the cooling wind, was 30 deEl Bajon

grees. El Salto delighted us with over 60 metres of visibility and schools of fish. We admired gold, silver and red fish, purple moray eels with white teeth

blue water illuminated by the sun. Schools of fish resembling

wriggling among the rocks, black stingrays several metres long

tunas, groups of barracudas, all this together, for some people

tiny colourful snails, curious moustached shrimps and huge

it was breath-taking, and for others it was the reason why their

crawfish. But this was only a foretaste of the next dive along

breath accelerated, as they were so impressed by the view.

the walls of the volcano El Bajón, considered to be the most

As if these attractions were not enough, in the next, side-by-

spectacular spot among the 40 diving spots. It is located about

side sites of Baja del Camello and El Desierto, we were greet-

2 minutes by boat from the harbour. Due to the light current

ed by huge, over-metre-high groupers, called here “el mero”.

bringing food and oxygen, it is a favourite spot for fish and

They were headed by their leader, a massive specimen who

for divers, who feel here like in a giant aquarium, with equally

decided to see who was visiting them. It tried to bite our Span-

giant fish. You swim along the walls of the volcano, and then

ish instructor, who wanted to "give it a kiss"; it pulled the filter

pass through the crater to circumnavigate the volcano again.

off our photographer’s camera and looked at me suspiciously.

You can admire green-brown, monumental walls with visible

You can see that it is a great fish with character. It is no won-

lava lines, a perfectly visible depth of almost 100 metres, dark

der that the symbol of La Restinga is the 40-year-old grouper

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El Bajon

El Bajon

“el pancho” that was immortalised with a statue. Its age was measured thanks to the fact that it gained 1 kg a year, and when it died it weighed 40 kg.

Both of these dive sites Baja del Camello and El Desierto are also known for the youngest underwater volcano, which erupted in 2011. It first spewed ash making the ocean a grey slurry and then exploded with geysers of hot water that was incredibly turquoise in colour for days, captured in many photos. But no worries, the volcano did not erupt suddenly. For days the inhabitants of El Hierro felt a slight trembling of the ground under their feet, as the moving river of lava sought its outlet, only to find it right in the area of La Restinga.

More than 150,000 years ago, the sea of lava solidified here in the form of monumental cliffs that defended the island from the waves of the Atlantic

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El Bajon

IT’S A COLD WORLD OUT THERE. Baja del Camello

BUT BARE KEEPS YOU WARM ON EVERY DIVE.

Ocean. The extraordinary black beaches contrast fantastically with the white and emerald waters, and the steep coastline with its monumentality will make you dizzy. So also the boat trip to the diving site provides a wonderful experience.

It is definitely worth spending at least one day exploring the island, to see the Meridian – the meridian labelled 0 degrees, visit the cultural centre El Julan, where Berber settlers called Bimbaches left their traces, their magical water tree El Garoé, admire the incredible views, especially in La Peña, where you can enjoy the panorama of the valley El Golfo, look at the reserve El Sabinar with juniper trees, which under the influence of the wind have taken amazing, bent shapes. And of course to taste the local cuisine, which in addition to seafood is also famous for “la quesadilla herreña” – cheesecake baked on the basis of goat cheese. Delicious.

We will return to El Hiero to show it to our friends and together we will dive into the sea of clouds, walk through the sea of lava and dive into the sea of calmness.

WWW.NURKOWANIE-ECN.PL

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Diving safari in the red sea "GOLDEN TRIANGLE" Text SYLWIA KOSMALSKA-JURIEWICZ Photos ADRIAN JURIEWICZ

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e live in the same world, but it is our interaction

adventure with a group of wonderful people, friends who join

with this world that determines how we will live in

me after a while to admire the sunrise together.

it. I have been practicing gratitude for over a year

Yesterday we landed at the Hurghada airport in eastern

now, I did it before too, but not with the intensity and faith in

Egypt in the early afternoon, it took us about fifteen minutes by

my heart that I do it with now. Since gratitude has become my

bus to get to the port. On a wooden, slightly wobbly gangplank

mantra, meditation and an indispensable part of everyday life,

we boarded a beautiful boat named Sea Serpent Grand, which

miracles have started to happen in my life ...

that day was sailing on a seven-day cruise in the Red Sea. The

Silently, with a cup of delicious morning coffee in my hand,

dive safari itinerary was "The Golden Triangle" due to the

I climb the wooden stairs to the sundeck, which offers a beau-

three incredibly beautiful sites we were going to dive at

tiful view of the red sea, low colourful buildings and a grand

– the Brothers Islands, Daedalus and Elphinstone Reefs.

mosque in the harbour. I am accompanied by blissful silence

The daily schedule during the diving safari is predetermined

broken occasionally by the sound of birds flying by and gentle

and everyone follows it, unless something unexpected hap-

waves hitting the side of the boat. This is my moment of sol-

pens that makes it change (e.g. bad weather or very strong

itude, in which I sink completely and feel indescribable grati-

currents, which make it impossible to dive at the planned site).

tude, looking at the beautiful world around me. I am thankful

Each day we get up at 6:00 a.m., although some, like me, wake

to be here and to be able to experience this extraordinary

up at 4:50 a.m. Then at 6:30 there is a briefing (discussion of

travels

Expressing gratitude in words is polite and pleasant, playing gratitude is generous and noble, but experiencing gratitude is a touch of heaven.

Johannes A. Gaertner

the dive site), and at 7:00 the first dive begins. After an hour of diving, we return to the boat, have breakfast, rest and at 10:30 we listen to a briefing again, so that we can dive again half an hour later.

After returning to the boat, we rest, have lunch and at 2:30 p.m. we gather for another briefing so that we go underwater half an hour later for the third dive. After an hour of diving, we rest, eat some snacks like fruit and antipasti, and then at 6:30 p.m. we gather for a briefing to start the fourth night dive at 7:00 p.m. After an hour of diving we return to the boat to have a delicious dinner and to relax.

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I get up because I know that in a moment the Red Sea will be flooded by the golden orange glow of the sun entering the sky.

If I stayed in bed, I would miss out on this beautiful spectacle.

place is exceptionally charming, there are no currents and the sandy bottom is overgrown with beautiful coral gardens, in which various colourful fish find shelter, as well as moray eels, scorpionfish and many other species of sea creatures.

For a moment, a large eagle ray appears on the horizon and swims away unhurriedly into the depths. At this location we also stay for a night dive, which turns out to be a beautiful experience: we see cuttlefish, Spanish dancer, stingrays, nudibranchs and many other beautiful creatures that become active after sunset.

We sail all night to the Brothers Islands. The sea is calm, and the hum of the engine and the gentle rocking make us fall asleep like children in our cabins. The next day I wake up before dawn at 4:40 a.m. I would love to stay in bed and sleep an hour longer. I get up because I know that in a moment the Red Sea will be flooded by the golden orange glow of the sun entering the sky. If I stayed in bed, I would miss out on this beautiful spectacle. It is only when we go beyond our comfort zone, overcome our weaknesses, laziness, fears and dare to

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We leave the harbour early in the morning, the sea is

fight for our dreams, that we experience the beauty of this

very calm, and the air temperature is over 35°C. Our diving

world (we are rewarded with a unique sunrise or a magical

equipment is already prepared and ready for us to put it on

dive with sharks).

and jump into the water. We swim about two hours to the

Two stone islands Little Brother and Big Brother emerge

first dive site Panorama Reef, where we do a check dive. The

from the sea bathed in the orangish glow of the rising sun.

When we take our eyes off the enormous walls, we can see schools of barracudas and tuna in the blue depths.

I couldn't have dreamed up a more beautiful gift in the morn-

southern stone underwater wall. Here we also meet beautiful

ing than this incredible spectacle in the sky.

white tip and black tip reef sharks.

"Big Brother", whose shape resembles a submarine,

"Little Brother", on the other hand, consists mainly of the

stands out from its smaller brother thanks to its beautiful

eastern and western walls, which are overgrown with gorgoni-

English-built lighthouse, which has been in operation since

an forests that look spectacular against the stone background.

1884 until today. Right at the foot of the island at a depth of

When we take our eyes off the enormous walls, we can see

about 25 metres (it descends to 80 metres) lies the beautiful

schools of barracudas and tuna in the blue depths. To dive

wreck of the transport ship Numidia, which fell into the reef

off the coast of the two islands we use a zodiac, to which we

and sank on 29 February 1901. 120 years after the sinking of

come back after our dive. Certain safety procedures must be

the ship, its remains look spectacular. The metal structure is

followed due to the presence of sharks such as longimanus.

overgrown with phenomenal coral gardens and inhabited by

They are considered dangerous to humans, as occasional at-

countless species of sea creatures. A few decades later, not

tacks occur. This is mostly due to risky behaviour of people who

far from the wreck of the Numidia, in 1957, another wreck

in order to entertain tourists attract the sharks by throwing,

rested, named the Aida, which came to the island with sup-

for example, pieces of chicken into the water. These sharks

plies for the lighthouse keepers and encountered stormy

began to more boldly approach boats and divers, especially

weather, during which it hit the reef and its hull broke into

those emerging towards the surface. For the safety of divers,

two parts. Today we can see her remains at about 28 metres

certain safety rules have been introduced, which every diver

(down to 52 metres). The Aida is a beautiful wreck, but it

should strictly follow. After finishing the dive and during the

exudes a penetrating darkness that is difficult to express in

safety stop at 5 meters, divers ascend in pairs along the rope

words... It is very austere and dark, and its entirety seems to

attached to the signal buoy. Once a pair ascends to a zodiac,

be shrouded in mist... "Big Brother" is not only two beautiful

then two more divers can ascend until the entire group of div-

shipwrecks, but also beautiful coral gardens, which cover the

ers is on the boat.

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During a safety stop at about 5 metres, suddenly a large shadow appears in the distance and unhurriedly approaches us. It is a hammerhead shark with all its curiosity, swimming slowly, majestically, with the rays of the morning sun reflecting on its skin.

Our dive guide has shown us a video he had taken with his

a zodiac and set sail for our first dive in this extraordinary

GoPro camera a few months earlier, when two tourists, after

place. We jump into the water with negative buoyancy and try

completing a safety stop, reached the zodiac, and a longima-

to swim as fast as possible to the slope of the vertically falling

nus emerged from the abyss just behind them and began

stone wall covered with soft and hard corals. Usually in this

circling them dangerously. The dive guide began banging his

place there are very strong currents, but not this time, the sea

carabiner against his cylinder to distract the shark. He adopted

is very calm not only on the surface but also underwater. We

an upright position and did not let the shark out of his sight.

dive to about 30 metres in search of sharks, and one species in

Fortunately, all ended well, and everyone made it back to the

particular: the hammerhead shark. They usually appear when

boat safely. This does not change the fact that during each

there are strong currents, so the chances of meeting them

dive you need to take special precautions (such as swimming

today are slim. After 35 minutes of searching we swim closer

in a group, and when a shark appears, you should stay upright

to the beautiful reef and slowly start to surface, losing hope

and observe the individual).

for an encounter with sharks. During a safety stop at about

On the boat in addition to our group there are several other

5 metres, suddenly a large shadow appears in the distance and

participants of the cruise, of different nationalities. We form

unhurriedly approaches us. It is a hammerhead shark with all

two separate teams; one team is from Poland and the other is

its curiosity, swimming slowly, majestically, with the rays of the

called International. One day we dive first, the next day we dive

morning sun reflecting on its skin. I start shouting out of joy

as the second ones. There is also a couple of older Americans

into my regulator, giving thanks for this extraordinary gift we

who have stayed for another dive safari and have their own

have been given by the sea.

private dive guide.

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On our second dive in the same spot, just after we had

To Daedalus Reef, which lies in the middle of the Red Sea

taken a zodiac off the boat, our dive guide noticed a small

and is a tiny island with a beautiful lighthouse in the middle,

bird in the water that was terribly tired and did not have the

we sail about 10 hours. After a morning briefing, we board

strength to make it to the island. We fished it out, saving its

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life. When we made sure the bird was safe on the boat we went for a dive, halfway there the engine on the zodiac stopped working. Our little captain was doing his best to start the machine, but every attempt to nourish the engine failed. The heat was pouring from the sky and we slowly started to drift. We decided to jump out of the zodiac where we were. We jumped into the water with negative buoyancy, and after a while a hammerhead shark came up to

Don’t settle for less.

us from the blue abyss, followed by another and another. Sometimes it is

Elite design. Top performance.

not worth fighting with fate, but surrender to what it brings, and it turns out

With Atomic Aquatics, the only

that a situation that at first seemed uncomfortable became the best possible one. The international group that dived second that day did not encounter

limits are your own.

a single shark.

During the third dive on Daedalus Reef we swam to the western wall, where between 5 and 10 meters there are impressive colonies of anemones, which

www.nurkowa nie -ecn.pl PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

37

t r av e l s

When we came out of the water, another surprise awaited us, a herd of bottlenose dolphins swam up to our zodiac.

They stayed so close that they were within arm's reach.

are inhabited by clownfish. Nowhere else in the world have I seen such a concentration of these fish and such a beautiful coral reef, which I can compare to the one on Raja Ampat. It was not only the anemones that enchanted me, but also the hammerhead sharks that swam past from time to time and the schools of tuna and barracuda. This extraordinary day could only be crowned by a magical sunset, which we admired together from the boat.

We arrived at Elphinstone Reef at dawn after a short morning briefing. This site is famous for its very strong currents, but also for its rich underwater life, beautiful coral gardens and large sea creatures such as grey reef sharks and longimanus sharks. On our first dive at Elphinstone, the current is minimal.

We were even more surprised when a hammerhead came by and we were able to see it up close, there was also a school of tuna. In the middle of the dive we were joined by a large napoleon, which obviously wanted us to give it something to eat. Some DMs take hard boiled eggs with them underwater and feed fish with them. The napoleon that swam with us until the end of the dive, was obviously hoping for a little something.

When we came out of the water, another surprise awaited us, a herd of bottlenose dolphins swam up to our zodiac. They stayed so close that they were within arm's reach.

38

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That day we did two more dives on Elphinstone Reef, and the next day we were supposed to dive on the Salem Express wreck. Unfortunately, our plans needed to be changed. One of the participants of the diving safari, an American from the international group, after leaving the last dive suddenly felt unwell and fell on the deck of the boat, unable to get up. The crew reacted immediately, gave the man oxygen, checked his computer and placed him in a safe position. There were no typical signs of decompression sickness on his body The crew immediately responded with oxygen, checked the man's computer and placed him in a safe position. Unfortunately, the man's condition was not improving, so the boat captain decided to immediately return to the port in Hurghada. In hospital it turned out that the American had suffered a pressure injury and had to undergo several sessions in a hyperbaric chamber. According to the American's computer, each of the dives was carried out correctly.

We made our next dives off the coast of Giftun Island, thus ending the safari adventure. Maybe we did not manage to see the wreck of the Salem Express, but we experienced the presence of sharks, dolphins and other creatures that inhabit the Red Sea, and most importantly the American survived...

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

39

o u r co n v e r s at i o n s

4baltic FOUR FOR BALTIC

My conversation with Tomek Ramutkowski, originator and founder of the 4baltic Association

ly participating in training. Since the very beginning I leaned towards the wrecks and technical dives. I wasn't interested in recreation.

Wojciech Zgoła: Have you ever seen Perfect Diver Magazine?

But, you know, everyone starts with recreation.

Tomek Ramutkowski: Honestly?

Sure, I did such dives for a few years, until my first tech course, advanced nitrox. However, most of them were training and

Yes...

skill dives.

You know, I must have seen it. The format and visual form seem familiar to me.

Many divers are now on the verge of recreational and technical diving.

40

Great. Here's the latest printed edition, and you can look

Exactly. I have a lot of trainees who are already doing advanced

at it in your free time.

nitrox, one stage, you know, for a gentle start. No one has to

Thanks, I will do so.

go down 100 m deep right away.

How many years have you been diving?

It shouldn't even be that everyone descends 100 meters.

Around 15 years, I think. Yes, it's been a while. And I dive quite

Sure, no. But see, from the commercial point of view there is

intensively. My first instructor course I took with the late Robert

a lot of pressure from instructors and trainees too, to do quick

Klein, but before that, I had spent seasons in Jastarnia, active-

courses, cave or technical diving courses...

our conversations

It is the size of five zlotys and has been living in our waters for several dozen years. The American Crab (Rhithropanopeus harrisi) has a breeding season which will last until the end of August.

Do you happen to dive not in the Baltic Sea?

There is also more and more talk about the penetration of

(laughs) ...of course, although I must admit that I enter the

chemical compounds from the sunken chemical weapons

lakes rather reluctantly. I only dive in lakes when I do it with

from WWII to the Baltic environment.

the trainees.

Some also believe that the wrecks themselves are not good for the environment. And I personally regret the fact that, for

Because you have to...

example, Franken was closed to divers. As the 4baltic Associa-

Because I have to, yes. The point is that the lake offers more

tion, we will strive to make it possible to dive on it. A gentleman

predictable conditions and a relatively shallow depth, which is

or a lady from the Maritime Office will not go there and verify

important in the case of skill dives.

the condition of this wreck, and we, as divers, can go down to the wreck and make, for example, photographic or film docu-

But Attersee or Garda are ok?

mentation of the state of Franken. Thanks to us, the the Office

Yes, these are OK. Although recently I got hooked on mac-

can be kept up to date.

ro-photography. During my last stay in Croatia, I was able to "sit" for hours with a rebreather on my back and look for ob-

Tell me more about this Association.

jects to photograph. I was able to spend 2 or 3 hours with

Well, as I am a local, I live and dive here, as I said a moment

snails. A beautiful thing, but it was also in the sea :)

ago, the desire to do something grew in me. I didn't want to just watch, but take things into my own hands. I prefer to create real-

I see. Now, where did you get the idea for 4baltic associa-

ity than to be just a passive observer. But what tipped the scales?

tion? Was it a sudden idea or did it develop slowly, gaining

Well, the fact that all the associations that I knocked to with the

maturity?

desire to cooperate, did not want to cooperate. They are rather

4baltic was an idea that was in my head for a long time. From

closed, hermetic. That's why I thought – let's do something on

the very beginning of my diving adventure, I have been diving

our own. Most of the "founding fathers" of 4baltic are my train-

on wrecks. Over the years and hundreds of hours under water,

ees at various levels of training, close acquaintances and friends.

you can see a drastic change in what's under the water. How much cod is there on wrecks (and how much of it was earlier),

How many people make 4baltic?

and why it is not there actually. The flounders are in a deplorable

We got together and created this Association in 8 people.

condition. Skinny, haggard, with some spots. You can see to the condition of the water itself: farmers fertilise their fields, and ev-

How has it been received by the environment? To what

erything flows down into the Bay and into the sea with the rains.

extent does the claim of a few people "we support 4baltic"

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

41

o u r co n v e r s at i o n s

translate into real help and commitment?

The response from the community exceeded my wildest expectations. Some of it is probably just idle talk, but some people took it seriously and hopefully something will come of it. We want to cooperate with various groups, not only divers, but also those practising other sports, e.g. kitesurfing. We will be happy to work with all of them.

And what are the main goals of 4baltic?

We are doing everything that can be done for the Baltic Sea. The name 4baltic has 4 hidden pillars. These are: broadly

dation on a permanent basis since last year and one of the

understood environmental protection, the second is the search

finals this year will be conducted under water.

and identification of wrecks, the third is to raise the awareness

Great. We want to talk to our local authorities and organise

of divers and the entire society about the ecosystem and what

some local events. Of course, we'll let you know.

resources we have. The fourth goal or pillar is the integration So, how can we help as PD?

of our environment.

It is already great that information about 4baltic will appear in And this is the number 4 (four) in the name?

your newspaper, that there has been a response from you and

Yes, this is this number four: for Baltic and 4 pillars, 4 main

that more people will find out about our initiative. This makes

goals.

me believe that there are people with whom we can go further.

Do more. In general, anyone can join the association, but from

Great idea.

the formal point of view, it is the case that a given candidate

Thanks (laughter)

must be approved by two members of the 4baltic Association and it is then voted on. We also want such a candidate to write

I am curious to see what goals will be realised later in re-

a cover letter or meet with us to see what they would like to

ality, because it is not going to be easy.

contribute to the association as our members.

Well, that's the way it is, even if you want to cooperate with people, there are always some obstacles. But that is precisely

Tomek, thank you very much for the meeting and that

the task for our Association. Because together we can do more.

you found time to come to Łeba and talk about the Baltic Sea and about 4baltic. We will stay in touch and at your

If, for example, you are planning to clean the bottom of

disposal.

the Baltic Sea in some part of the sea, let me know. Perfect

Thanks too. I am very pleased to meet you and to talk to you.

Diver has been cooperating with the Nasza Ziemia FounTOMEK RAMUTKOWSKI

42

He has been fascinated with the underwater

From the beginning of his diving journey, he has

It is the camera that has recently become a per-

world from an early age. Even as a little boy, with

been associated with Baltic wrecks, where he

manent part of his inventory, and the welfare of

an old type mask, he was looking at underwater

dives long and deep. It is also there that he trains

fauna and flora is crucial for him. Therefore, he

creatures. However, he waited until 2007 for his

his trainees most often, placing great emphasis

actively works to protect wildlife.

first breath from the diving regulator. And that's

on the high level of their training.

Founder and President of the 4baltic Association,

when it all started!:)

Tomek is an Instructor Trainer, rebreather, techni-

owner at Deepbusters and originator of Wreck-

Currently, he has a history of several thousand

cal and wreck instructor in several training organ-

busters.

dives in various places around the world, al-

isations. For over 10 years, he has been sharing

though it is quality, not quantity, that is key to him.

his knowledge with others.

www.4baltic.pl,

He dives mainly technically, on wrecks and in

He often takes a break from technical wreck or

www.deepbusters.pl,

caves. For several years he has been fascinated

cave dives in favour of shallower dives, in search

www.wreckbusters.pl,

by closed-circuit diving.

of an animal to 'shoot'. With a camera, of course!:)

www.facebook.com/tomekramutkowskitechnical

Rehasport - motor medicine

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

ONLINE Specialty or name City

Search

Find injury Select the body part in which you feel pain.

www.rehasport.pl PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

43

q ua r r y

‘Hemmoor virus‘ Text and photos MARIUSZ BEBEL (Morox)

HEMMOOR

Hamburg

Berlin

In 1989, I became a huge fan of this lake. As a newly trained police diver, I entered the area without permission through an opening in the fence and stood speechless in front of the lake, which shimmered in the most beautiful shades of blue and turquoise.

I absolutely had to dive there! The very next day I made my first dive in Kreidesee lake, and up to now there have been countless subsequent ones. I dare say I was infected with the 'Hemmoor virus', which I still successfully spread among many new divers today.

Holger Schmoldt Owner of Kreidesee Hemmoor

44

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

45

q ua r r y

T

hose who practice scuba diving will, sooner or later,

under the water is so large that we are able to explain to

come across the Kreidesee diving centre in Hemmoor,

everyone how to get to individual attractions without using

Lower Saxony, which has already been voted several

navigation devices.

times the best diving centre in Germany, Austria and Switzer-

Due to the specific climate, the quarry never freezes.

land. In the years 1862–1976, chalk was mined here for the production of cement and a pit was dug, which within six years

WE WOULD BE HAPPY TO ASSIST YOU. BE OUR GUEST!

after turning off the pumps filled with crystal clear spring wa-

Kreidesee lake covers an area of 33 hectares and is 60 meters

ter. Thus, in 1982, Kreidesee lake was created. In 1986, the

deep. During longer periods of good weather, visibility can

factory was demolished and the lake was to be converted into

increase up to 25 meters, thus ensuring an optimal three-di-

a red mud dump.

mensional space. This attracts around 30,000 divers annually, also from neighbouring countries.

HOWEVER, SOMETHING DIFFERENT HAPPENED

An excellent diving infrastructure has been created around

The lake still exists today and houses many abandoned open-

the lake: the largest and fastest cylinder filling station in Eu-

cast mine artefacts that now allow divers and Kreidesee visitors

rope, favourable descents and access to water, some also

to experience the era that had passed. Artefacts from recent

for the disabled, over 30 Scandinavian cottages and summer

times, such as free-floating aircraft, trucks, caravans, cars and

apartments, as well as a campsite directly by the lake.

ships are also valuable diving targets. You can often find there trout and salmon from fish farming.

Unfortunately, the attractiveness of the dive site requires you to book accommodation well in advance.

There is no classic roping there (maybe except for the

46

roping from the exit No. 4 to the truck), and only the more

Rafał Grazewicz took some of the photos during common

important attractions are marked with buoys. It is best to

dives.

dive with a compass, but the number of characteristic points

CN Octopus Hamburg/Hemmoor

quarry

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

47

k n ow l e dg e

Mermaiding MERMAID ACADEMY Text EDITORIAL OFFICE

Photo Akademia Syren

According to legend, the home of the mermaids, beautiful fish-tailed women, was an island in the Mediterranean Sea. Sailors were to see them there and hear their beautiful, seductive singing. Modern mermaids no longer sing, but you don't have to travel far to meet them. Thanks to the Mermaid Academy, they also came to Poland.

48

M

ermaiding, as mermaid tail diving is called, was born nearly 10 years ago. Fashion for this sport has already taken over Western Europe, the United States

and many Asian countries. Mermaiding appeared in Poland 3 years ago thanks to the Mermaid Academy in Warsaw.

– When I first saw Mermaids in Italy, where I was working as a diving instructor, I laughed. But when I put the tail on myself and tried it, I fell in love with it. Freedom, joy, humour are all that is hidden in this women's sport – says Magdalena Gębicka, mermaiding instructor, founder of the Mermaid Academy.

knowledge

Many of the women who came to us fell in love with apnea diving and after the mermaiding course they decided to take another training.

Photo Konwentphoto Deepspot

However, mermaiding is not only a sport for women, there

maid's tail fantastically sculpts the muscles of the abdomen

are men who try their hand at mermaid-tail swimming. Inter-

and buttocks. Besides, for many adult women it is also a child-

estingly, according to Greek mythology, they are called Tritons

hood dream come true.

(half human, half fish).

– As it turned out, for many of our students it is also the first

It is the tail that distinguishes mermaids from freedivers.

step towards freediving. Many of the women who came to us fell

Many people wonder what it really hides inside. In a fantasti-

in love with apnea diving and after the mermaiding course they

cally colourful material, the shape of which depends only on

decided to take another training. The mermaid course classes

our imagination, a traditional monofin is often hidden. And

can be compared to basic freediving training, because we teach

this is the true underwater propeller. As in any sport, there are

basic movements under water or breathing exercises. It's just

different types of monofins, ranging from hardness to size or

that we use a monofin dressed in a beautiful tail – explains

method of donning. In mermaiding, however, neither speed

Magdalena Gębicka.

nor depth matters, but the grace with which the mermaid moves underwater. And this, among other things, what you can learn on the mermaid course.

– We run courses in accordance with the guidelines of the SSI diving federation. I am very happy that we have managed to develop this field. People from all over Poland come to our courses, because we also train instructors – explains Magdalena Gębicka.

– Thanks to this, you can find a mermaid school in almost every major city in the country – she adds.

Mermaid tail diving is great fun. It is a sport for both children and adults. Therefore, it is a perfect idea to spend time with your child. It is fantastic fun for our kids, and for busy mums – a way to relax and exercise. Swimming in the mer-

Photo Konwentphoto Deepspot PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

49

k n ow l e dg e

Photo Studio Zahora

Photo Studio Zahora

AS IN EVERY FIELD, ALSO IN THIS ONE WE HAVE SEVERAL LEVELS

Try Mermaid SSI – discover mermaid tail swimming

Mermaid SSI – mermaid course

This is a course for those who want to try this sport, see if it is

around the world! Swimming in the mermaid's tail is a great

for them. During such classes, the instructor conducts a short

form of activity for adults and thanks to it we can improve our

introductory lesson on swimming equipment and techniques,

condition and take care of our figure. Such swimming involves

and then during the pool classes with the trainees, they carry

more the muscles of the legs, abdomen, buttocks and back.

out basic exercises. Minimum age 6 years.

Mermaid Explorers SSI – a course for the younger mermaid The Mermaid Explorers course is aimed at the youngest water lovers. You only need to be 6 years old and know how

During the course, we learn the proper movement in a monofin, work with the breath, and relaxation techniques.

The mermaid course consists of a theoretical and practical part and ends with an exam. All SSI Mermaid learning materials are available in Polish!

to swim (the ability to swim a minimum distance of 12 meters

Ocean Mermaid SSI – Advanced Course

is required). During classes with the Mermaid SSI instructor,

This course is aimed at mermaids who want to develop their

we provide not only a lot of new skills, but also a lot of fun.

skills. Ocean Mermaid is a training course designed for mer-

Children learn to swim in a mermaid's tail, perform simple ac-

maids who are already Mermaid certified and want to go be-

robatics under water and learn the basic issues related to safe

yond the limits. Open water swimming brings new skills. Train-

diving and apnea swimming. All this is full of fun and full of

ing is conducted outdoors or in the Deepspot.

colours, because the classes are conducted in mermaid tails from the very first meeting.

50

SSI Mermaid programs are making an astonishing career

k n ow l e dg e

Diver Rescue

HOW TO EFFECTIVELY PROVIDE FIRST AID

Text and photos HUBERT REISS

This time I would like to introduce you to the equipment

Anyone who begins their adventure with such a hobby as diving, from the very first day of the course must follow the safety rules and remember them so that they know how to help themselves or, if necessary, the other divers.

O

that you can use yourself until the arrival of the emergency services. One of the more and more frequently found in diving bases, apart from the oxygen set, first aid kit and a precise evacuation plan, is... the AED set (Automated External Defibrillator). It is compact and small, which makes it easy to carry.

We can see it on a daily basis in offices, swimming pools, in medical clinics, as well as in public transport or transport in general. It is placed in a visible and marked place in a special

f course, nobody talks about being a hero, it is more

"capsule" on the wall. Instructions for use should be at hand

about logical and consistent actions in order to help

near the AED.

or minimise the risk, from emergency procedures re-

Thanks to the courtesy of a friendly fire brigade, we had the

garding hardware problems to possible physical problems we

opportunity to undergo training with the use of such a device

or our partners can have.

and to compare the way AEDs from three manufacturers work.

A small red case the size of a thicker book with a life-saving

It is worth mentioning here the EFR, DAN and Polish Red

device inside… such a paradox.

Cross first aid courses. As the editor of Perfect Diver, we

After opening the case, we can see the device with elec-

are convinced that it is an absolute prerequisite to dive

trodes for adults already installed in the device, additional

consciously and safely!

electrodes for children, scissors for possible cutting of clothes

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

51

k n ow l e dg e

and a disposable razor. The device's battery life is a minimum of 200 defibrillations or 4 hours of operation, and the battery

2. for resuscitation of children, the lower voltage of the AED is provided (children 50J/adults 150J).

life is up to 4 years. The weight is only 1.5 kg, and the memory allows you to record the data of the first 15 minutes of the ECG as well as events and decisions made as a result of the analysis of the patient's condition during the entire incident.

Below there is a table with the classification of electrodes depending on the age of the victim AGE

ELECTRODES

ENERGY SETTINGS

more than 8

standard

standard

the law, there is no unambiguous normative interpretation

1–8

children's size

an attachment reducing energy level

explaining whether specialised training is required to use an

up to 1 year

not recommended

not recommended

The equipment is designed so that even a person without medical training can provide help. Of course, in the light of

AED. Regulations in various legal systems range from the requirement of special training to the view that modern AEDs are devices that are very easy to use, and additionally voice-

The device comes with a step-by-step pictorial guide on

guide the rescuer through the entire resuscitation algorithm,

how to proceed and use the AED correctly. Of course, all these

and therefore should be available to every witness of the

points are also communicated by voice during the resuscita-

incident. However, in times of growing indifference, it is much

tion procedure.

better to, at least, try to provide first aid and be a good Samaritan 

52

Not every diver is a rescuer, although everyone should know the principles of first aid. For me personally, the Res-

A lot of people are probably wondering why separate elec-

cue Diver course was really helpful and allowed me to plan

trodes for children are provided and what for a key to change

my dives even more precisely so as to avoid emergencies and

the mode is – to change the mode to a paediatric one? For

threats. It is a big responsibility but also a comfort that we

two reasons:

know how to react at a particular moment.

1. the electrodes are smaller than the adult version, al-

A good practice when organising a diving trip in a group or

though each manufacturer may have a different solution

with a partner is to equip yourself with an individual medical

knowledge

and other equipment – sticking plasters for dressing larger skin cuts, triangular bandage, stiffening splint, scissors, razor, tweezers, 20 ml syringe – for washing wounds, waste bag, a set of sterile bandages of various widths, elastic bandage, disinfecting wipes, disposable mask for mouthto-mouth resuscitation, a long strip of plaster cut to size, dressing patches and sterile saline.

Ready-made sets of "diving" first aid kits and oxygen sets are available on the market. Preceded by an appropriate course, they are an invaluable source of help in the field for the diver and/or rescuer until transport to the hospital or medical services are provided. Useful, but not required, is the Triage kit. I am talking about the one personalised for diving, because

kit for segregating the injured – it allows you to determine

it differs from the standard one with a few elements, and it is

the condition of the injured in a larger group in terms of the

totally different from the basic car set 

priority of providing help.

On every trip, be it Polish open waters or salty or sweet warm waters abroad, it's good to have:

from diving perspective ` several sets of disposable gloves, e.g. latex (our safety is the most important)

Although diving locally in the rushes at a shallow depth is very pleasant and allows you to discover virgin places full of life and clear water, you should always remember to properly prepare and secure such a trip from a medical point

` a resuscitation mask covering the mouth and nose

of view. Choosing dive bases

` several thermal blankets / space blankets

that are properly equipped

` gel for burns

is the first step in planning

` cold and hot chemical compress (overheating / hypother-

a safe trip 

mia)

Uncle Hubert and the en-

` rehydrating measures

tire editorial team of Perfect

` measures against diarrhea and seasickness

Diver know what they say and always promote safety;)

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

53

freediving

Static apnoea RESEARCH ON ATHLETES

Text and photos ALEŠ KOŠTOMAJ

Measurement of static apnoea in water

ABSTRACT

Depth competitions are held in seas or lakes. Distance and

In a previous issue of Perfect Diver Magazine, we intro-

duration competitions are held in swimming pools. Depth,

duced you the performance factors in static apnea. In this

distance, and duration of a dive depend on various limiting

one, we will introduce you the details of the research on

factors. An exercise regimen is essential to achieve and exceed

athletes. In the next issue of Perfect Diver Magazine, we

ever-improving results. The effects of a proper exercise regi-

will present the results of the research on athletes.

men are reflected in achieving greater depth (in all depth disci-

The main purpose of the research involving eight Slovenian

plines), distance (in all distance disciplines), and duration of the

men divers on the breath, was to compare the effects of stat-

dive (in static apnoea). With practice, therefore, a diver adapts

ic apnoea after inhalation and after exhalation carried out in

to certain extreme circumstances. How this is done, however,

water and on land. The divers that were measured have been

is an important question. Of all the forms of diving, static ap-

in the regular training process for many years, and they are

noea is the most suitable for research, as during apnoea (in

considered to be excellent breath-hold divers at national and

water and on land) a diver remains completely motionless.

world levels. Each diver performed static apnoeas in water, two maximum static apnoeas done after breathing in and two after

SUBJECT MATTER AND ITS DRAWBACKS

breathing out. And then each diver did the same on land. We

Breath-hold divers’ trainings consist of different practice types,

measured the following variables: the time duration of each

or forms of exercises, which are performed according to the

apnoea, the beginning of a spontaneous contraction of the

season and available conditions which enable their execution.

respiratory muscles, the heart rate, systolic blood pressure,

The main goal of most breath-hold divers is deep diving, which

diastolic blood pressure and blood saturation with oxygen.

is only possible in seas or lakes. Due to logistical and weather conditions, divers practice in swimming pools during most

54

INTRODUCTION

of the season. In the preparation period they mainly perform

The main element of competitive forms of breath-hold diving

swimming exercises of various intensity, which are conse-

are individual dives, which are measured in depth, distance,

quently upgraded by practicing static apnoea after inhalation

and duration. Breath-hold diving competitions are held in sev-

and after exhalation, as well as practicing dynamic apnoea

eral disciplines and according to well-defined rules set by two

with or without fins. Static apnoea and both forms of dynamic

international diving federations (AIDA and CMAS).

apnoeas are practiced in the form of a series which consist of

freediving

Measurement of static apnoea on land

shorter or longer apnoeas with shorter or longer breaks in be-

lows breath-hold divers a more rational approach to training

tween. In doing so, divers follow the principle of adapting to the

for apnoea duration.

characteristically low levels of O2 in the body during apnoea

Apnoea after exhalation is shorter. Changes happen fast-

by performing long apnoeas with long breaks between them.

er. Therefore, it is not necessary to dive very deep to achieve

This is called an O2 workout. Series of shorter apnoeas with

similar effects in ear equalization as in apnoea after inhalation.

shorter breaks in-between, however, represent a CO2 workout.

In apnoea after inhalation there is a risk of developing decom-

With this workout, divers reduce the need to inhale, or to some

pression sickness. In apnoea after exhalation in deep diving,

extent even adapt to such a need. In summer months, breath-

this probability is very small.

hold divers supplement their exercises with deeper dives in

In apnoea after exhalation, the diving reflex is also more

seas and lakes, where they gradually adapt to the increasing

intense. Training static apnoea after exhalation is practiced

water pressure. In doing that, their lungs and ears are particu-

with different lung volumes. Smaller lung volumes are thought

larly strained. Throughout the whole season, divers can make

to have a greater effect on bradycardia, i.e. slow heart rate.

their practice more interesting in various ways, for example by

Breath-hold divers practice static apnoea in water and also

playing underwater rugby or hockey in swimming pools, or by

on land. Any form of practicing apnoea with a submerged face,

underwater fishing in the sea.

i.e. with the mouth and nose immersed into water, can be

The training regimen in one competitive season consists of

life-threatening due to the possibility of drowning, therefore,

different combinations of the previously mentioned training

the presence of a safety diver is essential. Practicing apnoea on

types. They are largely based on expertise which is gained from

land in the supine position is the only safe form when exercis-

divers’ individual experiences and from knowledge of general

ing alone. It is important to lie on a comfortable surface with

training principles. Unfortunately, there have been very few

a slightly raised torso and head, and without a nose clip. Only

clear and scientifically confirmed data in the field of diving

in this case, the body will save itself and will be able to start

practices so far. The main reason for this is probably the in-

breathing after the loss of consciousness because there is an

ability of the current measurement technology for monitoring

unobstructed passage of air through the mouth and nose.

the changes in the body of a diver in such extreme conditions

All other apnoea training positions on land (sitting, standing,

(during deep dives) as is high water pressure and the aquatic

running, walking, cycling…) without safety measures can be

environment itself. In swimming pool disciplines, the measur-

dangerous in case of loss of consciousness. There are no sig-

ing is less demanding because there is no water pressure. Due

nificant differences between the duration of apnoea when per-

to the movement of the body and the aquatic environment

formed in water or on land. Given that all apnoea competitions

itself, the measurements are more demanding in both dynamic

are always in water, it would be interesting to compare static

apnoeas than in static apnoea, in which the body is completely

apnoea performed in water and on land.

motionless. Static apnoea with its characteristics, therefore,

The main purpose of this study is, therefore, to compare the

allows us to perform measurements in the most reliable way.

effects of static apnoea after inhalation and after exhalation

The greater the volume of the last inhale, the longer the

when performed in water and on land.

apnoea, and vice versa. Practicing apnoea after exhalation al-

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

55

freediving

The warm-up protocol before static apnoea in water

METHODS

subjects

In water, the subjects wore neoprene suits, as the water temperature was 27.5° C and the air temperature 29.5° C. The subjects lay in a prone position on the water surface with their

The study involved 8 Slovenian male breath-hold divers (age:

face submerged underwater so that their mouths and noses

37 ± 8, body height: 182 ± 8 cm, body weight: 82 ± 8 kg, the

were immersed in water. On their faces, the subjects wore only

best personal static apnoea result in water after packing: 402

a nose clip. Diving mask, swimming goggles, and underwater

± 60 s). All subjects have been in a regular training process for

lenses were not allowed.

many years and are considered excellent breath-hold divers both at a national and international level.

description of measurements

56

The warm-up protocol before static apnoea on land

On land, the subjects were dressed in swimsuits. Measurements were performed on the pool platform. They lay in a supine position on a comfortable surface with their torso and head slightly raised. On their face they only had a nose clip.

The measurements took place in the swimming pool at the

During each apnoea, subjects signaled the start of sponta-

Faculty of Sports in Ljubljana (Slovenia). They were divided into

neous contraction of their respiratory muscles by raising their

two parts (in water and on land). Each subject performed two

hand. When the subjects were no longer able to hold their

maximal static apnoeas after inhalation (hereafter apnoea af-

breath, they ended the apnoea.

ter inhalation) and two maximal static apnoeas after exhalation

The following variables were measured for all apnoeas:

(hereafter apnoea after exhalation) in water. Subjects repeated

duration of individual apnoea (EA – end of apnoea), onset of

the same protocol on land. The order of individual apnoeas

spontaneous contraction of respiratory muscles (CP – contrac-

(after inhalation, after exhalation, in water, and on land) was

tion point), heart rate (HR), blood oxygen saturation (SaO2),

random and different for different subjects.

and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP).

The warm-up protocol was the same when the measure-

All subjects and all apnoeas were recorded with a video

ment was performed in water and on land. Before the first

camera. The video camera also recorded all subjects’ signals

apnoea, the subjects had five minutes to warm up. There were

(a sign for CP and EA), the electronic stopwatch for CP and EA

three-minute breaks between individual apnoeas. No restric-

timekeeping, and the HR and SaO2 measuring device.

tions were imposed for the warm-up or breath-up before

Each subject performed two maximal apnoeas after inha-

and between apnoeas, with the exception of hyperventilation

lation and two maximal apnoeas after exhalation in water and

which was prohibited. Everyone was able to use their own

on land. The longer apnoea of each was chosen for further

technique. However, the last inhalation before apnoea and

analysis.

the last exhalation before apnoea were prescribed. The last

The subjects placed a heart rate monitor under a neoprene

inhalation before apnoea after inhalation was maximal, but

suit directly on their bare skin on the chest. HR was measured

without packing.

with a Polar heart rate monitor, in water and on land, continu-

The last exhalation before apnoea after exhalation was

ously every five seconds before, during, and after each apnoea.

maximal, with the subjects trying to empty all the air from

HR is shown as a number of heart beats per minute (1/min).

the lungs.

HR was also measured with two pulse oximeters as a control

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freediving

Measurement of spirometry

measurement. HR was analyzed at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, and 100% of the final time duration in all eight subjects.

For all apnoeas in water and on land, SaO2 was measured continuously with two devices, before, during and after apnoea. We used two pulse oximeters. Both forceps with pulse oximetry sensors were attached to the index finger and the ring finger of the subject’s right hand. SaO2 was analyzed at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% and 100% of the final time duration in all eight subjects.

Blood pressure was measured in water and on land, while resting a minute before the onset of apnoea and every minute of the duration of individual

DIVE STRONG. DIVE ZEAGLE. Every mission. In every condition. Zeagle has your back.

apnoea. We measured it on the subject’s left hand with a blood pressure monitor. Systolic and diastolic BP values were analyzed at 0%, 40%, and 90% of the final duration of measurement.

data processing Statistical analysis was performed with the SPSS statistical program. After calculating the descriptive statistics, the data were analyzed using the general linear model (GLM) analysis of variance for repeated measurements and post hoc analysis with the Bonferroni test. All data will be presented with tables and charts in the next issue of the magazine.

RESOURCES For readers interested in additional references please contact me through email.

www.nurkowanie-ecn.pl

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

57

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58

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www.nurkowanie-ecn.pl

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

59

planet earth

Eiders

SOFT-FEATHERED DIVERS

Text and photos WOJCIECH JAROSZ

Due to their large mass, eider can have a heavy take-off, but in flight they can be very fast

they remove the claws and legs, and then swallow along with

The heroes of this article are great at diving. They dive not only to enjoy the direct contact with the underwater world, dear Readers, but also for some more down-to-earth reasons.

T 60

the shell. What next? By studying the anatomy of the bird's digestive system, we will see that members of avifauna have a gizzard (also called 'gastric mill') just behind the glandular stomach. In this organ, the shells and carapaces of invertebrates are crushed, which are later of course removed outside.

Some birds help their stomach muscles to grind down food by swallowing, for example, pebbles. For example an ostrich can accommodate even a kilogram of such material!

Speaking of weight: it helps the birds to dive more effec-

hey usually descend to a few, or more rarely, several

tively. It is also worth mentioning at this point that eiders are

meters in order to pick something from the underwa-

the largest European diving ducks. Apart from their size, they

ter "buffet".

are distinguished by beautiful feathering, but as it often hap-

Most often, eider eat mussels (e.g. cockles, blue mussels),

pens with birds, this applies only to males and only during the

crustaceans, including crabs (e.g. Carcinus meanas called also

mating season. Contrasting and chic combination of white and

a shore crab), cephalopods, starfish, jellyfish and, rarely, even

black in a unique arrangement, a bit of subtle green and a hint

fish. Interestingly, they swallow whole mussels, from crabs

of pink – these are the eider colours. Plus yellow beak reaching

planet earth

Two pairs, ready to start breeding

the forehead and the stylish outfit is ready, not only for the

that ensures free flow and the necessary mixing of genes in the

evening out. Females, juveniles and males outside the mating

population), and then… leave. Yes, female eiders take care of

season are simply brown. When placed next to a fully coloured

the brood on their own, and to make it a bit easier, they often

male, they look like representatives of another species.

create large "bird kindergartens". In such kindergartens, duck-

Due to the considerable weight, eiders take off not really

lings, sometimes several dozen of them, are taken care of by

lightly, but when they accelerate, they can fly at speeds of over

a few females who support each other and share their duties.

100 km/h! What is unusual for these ducks is that these birds

A beautiful example of female solidarity in nature, isn't it? How-

interlace the phases of active flight with phases of gliding. They

ever, there is no point in assigning eider ladies any particularly

lose their ability to fly during moulting, but at some pint the

high motives, because such an arrangement simply turned out

feathers must be replaced with new ones. When they regain

to be profitable in evolutionary terms. However, from a human

the ability to fly with the new feathers, they begin to move

point of view, it is impossible to underestimate the involvement

to places where it will be possible to start looking for a partner

of bird mums in raising subsequent generations of suppliers of

with whom they will try to conceive little ducklings.

the warmest down on Earth. Exactly – undoubtedly, eider feath-

Every year, eider females return to the places where they

ers are so dear to mankind because of their down. And they are

were born (in ecology there is a term for this – philopatry).

mainly females who nibble the down from their breasts to wrap

Males, on the other hand, wander wherever their bird fancy

it around the eggs they lay. After the brood is finished, such

takes them (although not so completely because they are lim-

down is carefully selected from the nests to the last feather by

ited by their geographic range), changing their brooding places.

specialised collectors, because it is of great value. After all, the

Usually the opposite is true for birds – males attach themselves

most exclusive quilts and eiderdowns filled with eider feathers

to a specific area and defend it against competitors. In the end,

cost a fortune! Interestingly, using the attachment of females

the eider chevalier will always find a 'petticoat" in due time, fight

to the same places, in Iceland, for example, specially protect-

for her, fulfill his obligation to pass genes (it is male mobility

ed zones are created, where eiders reproduce every year and

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

61

planet earth

Kindergarteners (several month old ducklings) under the care of a female

62

breed providing, in return for protection, the desired feathers.

Sea experienced a severe decline in the eider population due

The unparalleled properties of their down are reflected in the

to the high mortality caused by pesticides flowing down the

Latin name of the species, because Somateria mollissima can be

Elbe, Weser and Ems. These toxins eventually found their way

translated as ' the softest wool'. Besides, in Polish language the

to the organisms of birds and their fatty tissue through all the

eider is known under the name which translated into English

links in the food chain. The females using it, while incubating

would be 'soft-feathered bird'. The term eider itself comes from

their eggs, were poisoned by substances released with the

Germanic languages and also means duck down – so everything

fat. Today, the whole area of high natural value is inscribed

revolves around thermally perfect feathers. Duck, goose or syn-

on the UNESCO World Heritage List. There are several world

thetic down can not match the eider down with unsurpassed

biosphere reserves and national parks. This allows us to hope

insulating properties. If it hadn't been so little accessible and

that eiders and other birds, as well as non-bird organisms, will

thus extremely expensive...

be safe in the future in the largest system of flats and tidal shal-

The eider's breeding season is also associated with anoth-

lows in the world, and where the Baltic eiders winter. Finishing

er curiosity related to the slimming of bird mums. It is not

the breeding strand, I would like to mention that the females

a voluntary starvation in order to improve one's image, but

fiercely defend the nest and only leave it as a last resort. When

a breeding strategy whose main goal is to take care of the fate

they are forced to do so because of an approaching predator,

of one's own children. During the less than a month of incuba-

they resort to a radical weapon used in the fight against the in-

tion period, females use only the previously accumulated fat

vader – they spray it with semi-liquid excrements with a highly

reserves, so as not to waste time for feeding and not to leave

unpleasant odour. As observations show, this is a factor that

the eggs unattended for this time – with at the most a few

discourages most of the wide range of eider egg amateurs

sips of water every few days. Unfortunately, adipose tissue has

from eating them.

the property that apart from accumulating spare materials, it

Where should we look for eider? They are northern birds

binds large amounts of impurities. In the 1960s, the Wadden

and sea birds ('sea birds' to such extent that they even drink

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Sexual dimorphism visible during the mating season makes it impossible to confuse females with males

NEED A DIVE BUDDY?

OCEANIC IS BUILT FOR ADVENTURE. ARE YOU?

Eider are happy to visit harbours, where they can be observed without going far into sea

salty sea water!). We can meet eider on the southern Baltic Sea, but only in winter – then they often visit the vicinity of ports accompanied by other sea ducks. Breeding takes place on our coast sporadically. On the other hand, the central and northern Baltic, the North Sea, the Norwegian Sea, and basically all the northern coasts of Eurasia and North America are places where you can meet these birds. The other two species of the genus Somateria, i.e. the king eider (S. spectabilis) and the spectacled eider (S. fischeri), visit Europe less frequently and are found in the far north, the latter in the Bering Sea. So, during trips to cooler seas, stay alert and watch carefully what birds jump up in front of the bow of your boats – maybe they will be beautiful eiders? That's what I wish our Dear Readers!

www.nurkowanie-ecn.pl

tips & curiosities ACADEMY

Useful tips and tricks for beginner technical divers Text WOJCIECH A. FILIP Doing one course a year is already a lot. In the meantime, join

Wait...

I am a recreational diver, what now?

Is this article not for me ?

I

ing events.

Listen, watch and ask – learn how to dive from divers!

Avoid instructors that claim they don’t have any time to dive because they provide frequent training.

Don’t know where to look for them? Ask in Ghost Diving or

t is definitely for you. Only a small part of diving knowledge

Ghost Diving Poland (if you are in Poland).

and experience come from participation in courses. What

Attend a training for Ghost Diving groups that dynamically

builds your confidence and ensures safety underwater is

protect underwater life.

arduous training and participation in interesting dives that let

Check what skills you should improve and practice them at

you verify and use your skills.

every available opportunity 

Photo Fabrizio Tosoni

64

a group of more experienced divers that take part in interest-

tips & curiosities

ACADEMY

Who is a technical diver?

A technical diver uses different types of equipment and gases to spend as much time as possible underwater at a specified depth and then decompress as fast as possible, while ensuring their safety.

Who is a beginner technical diver?

A beginner technical diver has basic knowledge about using a complex (technical) gear configuration and starts to decompress faster* by using decompression gases without helium. Such a person usually dives at 40–60 m, using a twinset and one or two stage cylinders. Bottom time usually does not exceed 30 minutes.

Photo Mariusz Czajka

From time to time, I will write articles for Perfect Diver that

Technical divers use trimix – a mixture of oxygen, helium

will allow me to interact with my readers. I hope it will be in-

and nitrogen (three gases that gave raise to the mixture’s

teresting for you 

name) – as their basic gas. Faster decompression, also

In this article, I included a number of tips for beginner tech-

called accelerated decompression, is possible due to re-

nical divers. Each tip has a number. You can write to the Perfect

placing helium in the breathing gas with a higher oxygen

Diver’s editorial team, indicating the number of the issue that

fraction.

interests you the most. The issues that garners the most votes

(More information on decompression is available in Per-

will be further described in a separate article.

fect Diver no. 5 and no. 6)

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

65

ACADEMY

All issues related to technical diving may be explained

Let’s start!

in simple terms.

Complicating matters tend to make such type of

When reading individual tips, remember that they are not

diving dangerous. When asking an experiences col-

ordered by subject.

league or instructor for their help, always expect

To avoid boredom, you may read a tip and discuss it with

a logical answer that is easily comprehensible. Tech-

your team when travelling to a diving site – I highly recom-

nical diving training entails multiple repetitions of

mend it. Also ask your instructor’s opinion. Always expect a

procedures and learning diving tactics. It also in-

clear and logical answer and try to come to such conclusions

cludes the necessary theory.

on your own.

1. Position of regulators between the twinset valves

It allows for entering the water from up high with heavy gear,

Arrange first stage regulators diagonally so that they form

without the danger of hitting your head on the valves; makes

a “V”. If necessary, arrange hoses to fit this configuration. If

it possible to penetrate wrecks and caves in a vertical position

you are using a first stage regulator that allow for using the 5th

upside down; makes it easier to use a DPV; significantly im-

port – do it by inserting the inflator LP hose into the right regu-

proves position when there is a high wave on the surface and

lator and the second stage regulator LP hose into the left one.

has all the benefits listed in number 1.

Why is such a configuration better than regulators placed It will improve the position of your head, allow you to use less

3. If you have a vision impairment, do not look for a mask with corrective lenses.

gas, improve buoyancy control, improve your technique for

Buy two masks that fit your face the best (ensure perfect tight-

moving forwards and backwards, make it easier to use stage

ness with minimal buckle strain) and then take them to an

cylinders, reduce narcosis, improve spatial orientation and in-

optometrist and request that they fit in corrective lenses of an

crease safety during rescue.

appropriate size and strength.

horizontally?

Why it is better than having a mask with corrective lenses?

Your mask will have the lens perfectly matched to your needs – even if you have a complex vision impairment, you can choose a mask that fits you best instead of having your choice limited to the so-called optical masks; what is more, the mask will not leak.

4. Attach the long hose snap bolt to the primary regulator right behind the metal fitting Use a 2 mm core line, soaking it in a warm water before fastening it. Remember to place the primary second stage regulator only in one of the two places: your mouth or the right d-ring.

Why attaching the snap bolt this way is important?

You will be able to remove the regulator from your mouth and clip it into the d-ring with the same movement, without using your other hand (grab the hose behind the can with your ring Photo Łukasz Oganowski

2. Crotch strap length

66

finger and pinky and use the rest of your fingers to operate the snap bolt); when a line is fastened when wet, it does not glide across the hose, which means that the snap bolt will always

Adjust the crotch strap so that it is as short as possible and

be right where you need it. Check whether you use one or

forms a “Y” with the waist strap instead of a “T”.

both hands to stow your primary regulator. If you need both

Why is such a configuration better than a waist strap ending

hands, it could mean that your snap bolt or right d-ring are

at your abdomen?

incorrectly placed.

tips & curiosities

ACADEMY

5. Prepare and secure a back-up mask in your right pocket.

Note!

The masks you use should be the same (do not use your old

before diving will have a small

mask as a back up). Always protect your back up mask against

impact on hydration, but will

fogging and clip it to a rubber loop in your right pocket with

only make you need to go to

a doubleender.

the toilet – you will not be able

Why is this way better than other solutions?

to hydrate before diving that way.

When you need to change your mask, you will put on a mask

One of the most common causes of DCS and subclinical DCS is the diver’s poor hydration.

Drinking a lot of water right

will be protected against fogging. Also, your right pocket will be

7. A stage cylinder harness is not meant for carrying.

easily accessible, as there is no stage cylinder above it – when

The harness is used to securely fasten a stage cyl-

you are on a DPV, it is much easier to remove your mask from

inder so that the cylinder valve knobs do not drop and pres-

this pocket, while signaling a problem with a flashlight held in

sure gauges are always visible, without the need to turn the

your left hand.

cylinder.

6. Equip you drysuit with a p-valve.

secured below the middle of the cylinder and a line threaded

If you are a woman, familiarize yourself with a She-p; men

through a rigid rubber hose. The regulator hose is stabilized

use an external catheter with glue along its entire length. The

by two rubber flat bands meant to prevent the hose from pro-

P-valve system allows you to urinate underwater. It is safe

truding. The diameter of the rubber hose to which a harness

and comfortable and has been used by men and women for

is fastened is selected based on diving conditions. The colder

many years. The part permanently attached to the drysuit is

the water, the larger the hose diameter. This hose allow you

the same for men and women. Differences lie in the parts that

to easily pull back rubber bands stabilizing the regulator, using

go on your body.

thick dry gloves.

identical to the one you are using instead of an old one and it

Why do I need a P-valve?

A stage cylinder harness includes two snap bolts, a band

The line should be soaked before a harness is put on the

One of the greatest dangers for technical divers is DCS (decom-

cylinder. When mounted in the valve seat axis, it enables you to

pression sickness) caused by dehydration. A recreational diver

always see your pressure gauge and regulator. This is because

should drink a lot of water for several days before a planned

a cylinder does not rotate axially. Stage cylinders are carried

dive. A technical diver usually drinks a lot of water the entire

by the valve.

day. Additionally, you will be able to have a cup of coffee in the

Why carrying a cylinder by its harness is not a good idea?

air-hole right before immersion, without worrying what to do

It happens that inexperienced divers use the harness to car-

when you need to pee... 

ry stage cylinders, thinking that it is means as a convenient handle (it happens that a non-technical diver helps a diver to carry their gear). It causes the slack that results in the cylinder

Source www.she-p.com

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

67

ACADEMY

turning with the valve and regulator going down when clipped

Why is bungee better that the original dive computer band?

to the diver’s harness. Such a position makes it impossible

The position of your hands underwater does not always make

to quickly use the valve. When you have two stage cylinders,

it easy to monitor instruments. Find the most comfortable po-

the valve of the cylinder placed closer to you body is hard

sition and look at your right hand, where a computer should

to access. When diving in wrecks or caves, this may result in

be placed, and a left one, where you will place the compass.

a guideline getting broken, sand getting in your second stage

Try not to raise/turn your arms to read the instrument and

regulator or the regulator becoming damaged. Additionally,

instead, move the instruments so that you may always see the

monitoring a pressure gauge will require rotating the cylinder

readings. Arranging your instruments quickly and in a con-

each time. A loose harness caused by carrying the stage cyl-

venient way is difficult, when they are fastened by a rubber

inder incorrectly may pose a danger to divers using DPVs – it

band. Bungee mounts allow you to fasten your computer

is easy to overlook a regulator hanging below a diver. When

in any place and move it to a different place quickly and,

a cylinder is correctly positioned, such a regulator may be

importantly, at any time during your dive, without paying it

constantly monitored.

much attention.

8. Position the separator knob towards the rear (in the opposite direction that the regulators are facing)

an unresponsive diver from water. Holding a diver from be-

Earlier I recommended to position first stage regulators to

a bungee mount you will do it almost instinctively. With a su-

form a “V”. Read and try to understand the idea behind such

perband you will need “a little” more time.

a configuration. If the separator knob is positioned towards

If you are unsure about such a solution, practice pulling hind, you hold his regulator in his mouth with your right hand and move your computer upwards towards your elbow. With

your head, it will result in the consequences described in

10. How large should my argon cylinder be?

item 1. Position them in the opposite direction than your head,

As small as possible – e.g. 0.85 L. Such a cylinder is enough for

preferably at an angle of 30–45 degrees.

diving at 90–120 m.

Why is it preferable to having the knob positioned towards

Why the cylinder should be this small? Isn’t it better to use

your head?

a 4 L cylinder?

Breathing control is crucial in diving. When you head is blocked

I used a 0.85 L cylinder for diving the HMHS Britannic wreck at

in a slightly downward position, it significantly limits your ac-

120 m. Larger cylinder volumes are needed for dives requiring

tions. Additionally, when you want to operate a valve arranged

you to change the depth several times, which mean that you

this way, you need to lower your head and try to fit your hand

inflate you suit several times as well. It typically happens in

with a glove ring between your head and the regulators. If

certain caves. In open water, we strive to keep our diving pro-

a valve is facing the other way, you do not have to look for it:

file U-shaped. That means that we descend, spend time at the

lower your head slightly, without losing eye contact with your

bottom and ascend. In such a case, gas from an argon cylinder

team. Put your forearm behind your head, without search-

is only used during the descent phase.

ing for a valve. Raise your head high and breathe normally,

It is worth remembering that additional weight and

pressing your forearm with your head. Close your hand – it

volume make your configuration less comfortable and in-

will clench around a valve 

creases its weight unnecessarily. Additionally, if you plan to penetrate wrecks, a large argon cylinder does not work in

Note!

your favor.

In 2x15, 2x18 and 2x20 liter twin sets, arranging the knob to face your head does not change its position due to the

Note!

larger cylinder diameter. In such sets, the separator knob

In diving, and especially technical diving, a suit is not used

should be positioned towards your head.

as the primary source of buoyancy. The device used to con-

9. Change the computer and compass mounting kits to bungee mounts

cylinder size are related to the fact that you control your buoyancy with a drysuit, take the opportunity to practice

Use a dedicated casing, use the openings in your casing or

another method – the faster you do it, the better your

come up with your own way. Change all rubber bands to dou-

results will be 

ble bungee mounts.

68

trol buoyancy is your wing. If your doubts about the argon

tips & curiosities

ACADEMY

Photo Mariusz Czajka

Technical diving is a great way to see more underwater world.

If any of the issues I mentioned interested you or raised your doubts – write to Perfect Diver and indicate which issue

It requires specific training and preparation. It provides

from today’s article you would like to read more about.

you with an opportunity to see what few can see. You learn

...perhaps you do not want to wait for a next issue of the mag-

techniques and use equipment in a maximally informed

azine?

way. Such an approach allows you to spend time underwater safely.

If so, you’re welcome to visit the Tecline Academy – set up a meeting for yourself and your team  WAF

https://teclinediving.eu/tecline-academy/#/

PERFECTDIVER No. 4(16)/2021

69

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