The world is changing before our eyes – in many different ways. That’s all the more reason to keep diving and to have a copy of Perfect Diver Magazine with you, where there’s always something interesting waiting just for you.
We’ve scored a big win! Take a look at what’s happening now with dolphins in Mexico. Jakub Banasiak, a tireless defender of dolphins in their natural habitat, explains it all.
But in this issue, sharks take center stage. Not only does Anna Metrycka show us, on a world map, where to go to encounter specific species of sharks, but Przemysław Zyber uses his camera to tell us the story of the Maldives. Congratulations on making the cover! And don’t miss the center of the magazine – there’s a surprise there: gently remove the staple, take out the middle spread, and enjoy a poster… or maybe even two :)
If you're dreaming of far-off continents, join Sylwia Kosmalska-Juriewicz and Adrian in Australia to see what it’s like to dive on the Great Barrier Reef.
We couldn’t resist sharing our thoughts and impressions from our visit to VIS island. Thanks to an invitation from
Nautica Vis, we spent a wonderful week diving, exploring the area, and… searching for shade. Dominika Abrahamczyk wrote all about it.
And there’s much more in this issue. We cover plenty of practical diving topics –like how to choose the right footwear: for fins, wetsuits, or even to match your mask color. We also dive into the topic of dive boats – and how to use them effectively.
Inside, you’ll find articles on Lake Mamry, another Saxony quarry, and gorgonians. We also take a moment to preview Underwater Frames 2025.
We continue to receive reports of diving accidents – situations none of us would ever want to experience firsthand. Sometimes, we even witness them ourselves. In this issue, we reflect on a recreational diving incident that, fortunately, had a good ending.
Let’s always dive safely. Stay calm under pressure, refresh (and rehearse) your procedures, and be honest about your abilities. Remember – we are always guests underwater. Plan wisely and stick to the plan. And most importantly – take care of your dive buddies. They are your first, and sometimes only, lifeline.
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Publisher PERFECT DIVER Sp. z o.o. ul. Folwarczna 37, 62-081 Przeźmierowo redakcja@perfectdiver.com ISSN 2545-3319
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WOJCIECH ZGOŁA
Passionate about diving and pure nature. He likes to say that he travels by diving. He learned to swim when he was less than 6 years old. At the age of 15, he obtained a yacht sailor's license and has been diving since 2006. He has completed over 800 dives in various regions of the world. He wrote and published many articles. Co-author of photo exhibitions. An advocate of leaving the place of residence clean and unblemished. Diving promoter. Since 2008 he has been running his own website www. dive-adventure.eu. Based on extensive experience, in 2018 he created the new Perfect Diver Magazine, which has been successfully published regularly every two months in Polish and English for 7 years.
For Tomek, diving has always been his greatest passion. He started his adventure at the age of 14, developing into a recreational and technical diving instructor, a first aid instructor and a diving industry technician. Currently, he runs the 5* COMPASS DIVERS Pobiedziska Diving Center near Poznań, where he passes his knowledge and skills to beginners and advanced divers, which gives him great joy and satisfaction from being part of their underwater adventure...
Infected with a passion for diving by Perfect Diver. She continues to expand her diving skills. Although she definitely prefers warm waters, she dons a dry suit and explores colder bodies of water as well. Her favorite dives are those with plenty of marine life! Recently, she’s been taking her phone underwater in a protective case, trying her hand at amateur photography. She’s also curious about diving medicine. Professionally, she’s a Master’s degree nurse and a surgical scrub nurse.
ANNA METRYCKA
“Man! Get underwater. If the beauty you see down there doesn’t shake you to the core – then nothing in life ever will.” A passionate diver, Pisces by zodiac, and forever connected to water. I completed my first diving course at the age of 14, and I’ve never stopped diving since! :) I wrote my master’s thesis on dive tourism while studying geography at the University of Warsaw. Since 2013, I’ve been writing for nuras.info magazine and participating in underwater photo sessions. Since 2017, I’ve been contributing to Perfect Diver magazine (formerly under the name Ania Sołoducha), and for the past few years, I’ve also been part of the editorial team. I love sharing my knowledge and experience through writing, promoting what I love most – diving. For 13 years, I organized dive trips all around the world, because working with people and bringing them joy is what truly fulfills me. I take part in dive expos and events, and I also help with lake cleanups. I’ve had the pleasure of speaking at various expos and conferences, and I’ve hosted several diving webinars. I’ve dived in many places across the globe – and my dream list is still growing… See you above and below the surface! divebyann@gmail.com
SYLWIA KOSMALSKA-JURIEWICZ
A traveller and a photographer of wild nature. A graduate of journalism and a lover of good literature. She lives in harmony with nature, promotes a healthy lifestyle: she is a yogini and a vegetarian. Also engaged in ecological projects. Sharks and their protection are especially close to her heart. She writes about the subject in numerous articles and on her blog www.blog. dive-away.pl. She began her adventure with diving fifteen years ago by total coincidence. Today she is a diving instructor, she visited over 60 countries and dived on 5 continents. She invites us for a joint journey with the travel agency www.dive-away.pl, of which she is a co-founder.
Zoopsychologist, researcher and expert in dolphin behavior, committed to the idea of protecting dolphins and fighting against keeping them in dolphinariums. Passionate about Red Sea and underwater encounters with large pelagic predators. Member of the Dolphinaria-Free Europe Coalition, volunteer of the Tethys Research Institute and Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit, collaborator of Marine Connection. For over 15 years, he has been participating in research on wild dolphin populations, auditing dolphinariums, and monitoring the quality of whale watching cruises. As the head of the "Free & Safe" project (formerly "NO! for a dolphinarium"), he prevents keeping dolphins in captivity, promotes ethical whale & dolphin watching, trains divers in responsible swimming with wild dolphins, and popularizes knowledge about dolphin therapy that is passed over in silence or hidden by profit-making centers. on this form of animal therapy.
TOMEK KULCZYŃSKI
DOMINIKA ABRAHAMCZYK
JAKUB BANASIAK
He has been diving for 35 years. He has spent more than 16,000 hours underwater, most of them diving technically. He has been an instructor and mentor instructor for many organizations including CMAS, GUE, IANTD, PADI. He co-created the training programs for some of them. He is a professional with vast knowledge and practical experience. He has participated in many diving projects as a leader, explorer, initiator or speaker. He was the first Pole to dive the HMHS Britannic wreck (117m). He was the first to explore the deep part of the Glavas Cave (118m). He made a series of dives documenting the wreck of ORP GROM (110m). He has documented deep (100-120m) parts of flooded mines. He is the creator and designer of many equipment solutions to improve diving safety.
Technical Director at Tecline, where, among other things, he manages the Tecline Academy a research and training facility. Author of several hundred articles on diving and books on diagnosis and repair of diving equipment. He dives in rivers, lakes, caves, seas and oceans all over the world.
WOJCIECH JAROSZ
A graduate of two Poznan universities, the Academy of Physical Education (coaching specialization – handball) and the University of A.Mickiewicz, Faculty of Biology (specialty of experimental biology). He connected his professional life with this first university trying to influence the direction of development of future professionals on the one hand, and on the other planning and implementing research, pushing laboriously in the right direction of the stroller called science. In his free time he spends his time actively – his main passions are sailing (sea helmsman), skiing (downhill skiing instructor), riding a motorcycle, recreational diving and many other activities, as well as photography, mainly nature.
A long, long time ago in a galaxy far, far away there was chaos...
…that is, the multitude of thoughts and delights after my first immersion under water in 2005 in the form of INTRO while on vacation in Egypt. By then I had completely immersed myself in the underwater world and wanted it to have an increasing impact on my life. 2 years later, I took an OWD course, which I received as a gift for my 18th birthday, and over time, further courses and skills improvement appeared.
"Photography" appeared not much later, but initially in the form of a disposable underwater "Kodak" from which the photos came out stunningly blue
I am not a fan of one type of diving, although my greatest weakness at the moment is for large pelagic animals. The Galapagos Islands were my best opportunity to photograph so many species of marine fauna so far.
I share my passion for diving and photography with my buddy, who is my wife IG: luke.divewalker; www.lukedivewalker.com
Laura is a journalist, instructor trainer, CCR and cave diver. She has been developing her diving career for over a decade, gaining knowledge and experience in various fields. Her specialty is professional diving training, but her passion for the underwater environment and its protection drives her to explore various places around the world. From the depths of the Lombok Strait, caves in Mexico and wrecks in Malta to the Maldives, where she runs a diving center awarded by the Ministry of Tourism as the best diving center in the Maldives. Laura actively contributes to promoting the protection of the marine environment, takes part in scientific projects, campaigns against ocean littering and cooperates with non-governmental organizations. You can find her at @laura_kazi_diving www.divemastergilis.com
I photograph because I love it, I film because it excites me, I write because I enjoy sharing, I teach because I support growth, I travel because I love discovering new things. www.facebook.com/przemyslaw.zyber www.instagram.com/przemyslaw_zyber/ www.deep-art.pl
He has been diving forever, he does not remember his first dives. The only thing he remembers is that diving has always been his passion. He spent his entire childhood on Polish lakes, which he still prefers to distant destinations. With great success, he turned his passion into a way of life and business.
Curiosity of the world and constant striving for perfection are the main features that definitely hinder him in life. Professional diving instructor, photographer, filmmaker.
Creator of the DECO Diving Center, PADI Course Director, TecTrimix Instructor Trainer TECREC.
PRZEMYSŁAW ZYBER
WOJCIECH A. FILIP
ŁUKASZ METRYCKI / Luke Divewalker
LAURA KAZIMIERSKA
DOMINIK DOPIERAŁA
Snap-pop and diving came back into my life. And it changed my landscapes – and it was nice, and it changed my perspective – and it was great! Well, if someone has a nice life like me, diving would have to be included in it... hi-hi. That's my approach. I don't want to count the days, I want the days to count (preferably every day!) That's why diving is another adventure that I enjoy with delight (in small bites, so as not to have hiccups!) And I like it very much, because it is accompanied by great company, great views and thrill.
A salesperson by profession, a diver and traveler by passion. She has been diving since 2011. For 12 years, as a professional, she has been infecting successive generations of lovers of the deep sea with her passion. She started as a Divemaster and later an Instructor at PADI. In 2015, together with her husband, she founded her own diving school "Lionfish" in Pruszków near Warsaw. Since 2019, she has been associated with the Polish diving organization IDF. She achieves the greatest successes in initial training and her "hobby horse" is working with young diving enthusiasts. She loves underwater photography and traveling to the farthest corners of the world. www.lionfish.pl
JACEK KUBIAK
Is 45 years old and married, has been working professionally in the metallurgical industry for 25 years, has been diving since 2009 and diving has become a way of life and passion for him. He lives in Kętrzyn and is associated with the Mazursharks Club.
By education and profession, I am a nurse and a healthcare manager, and photography is my passion, to which I devote every free moment. Since I started diving in 2019, the camera has become an inseparable element of my underwater adventures. Wanting to capture the beauty of the underwater world in all its glory, I reached for the Canon 5D Mark II SLR, and today my main equipment is the Canon R6. I am constantly looking for new places and challenges to improve my skills. However, my photos would not have been created without the support of friends who have been with me from the beginning and often take on the role of models. I am also strongly connected to the mermaid community in Poland. I specialize in their photography, trying to capture the underwater beauty of this community and convey its unique magic. From the beginning of my diving adventure, I have been associated with the Lublin Diving School Napoleon Arka Kowalika, and since 2025 I have had the pleasure of serving as the DivePro Diving Lighting Ambassador. IG @michalmuciek https://facebook.com/michal.muciek
MONIKA ZYBER
ANNA PASZTA
MICHAŁ MUCIEK
Lessons I learned from the Coral STRENGTH GROWS IN TWILIGHT
Text LAURA KAZIMIERSKA
There are people who live near the ocean, and there are those who belong to it.
Dr. Sonia J. Rowley is definitely the latter.
She’s one of the few privileged souls who grew up with the sea as her playground. While many of us were busy dressing up plastic dolls or building sandcastles, Sonia was watching her parents disappear beneath the surface on dives. She got her first snorkel and mask at the age of three. Her first dive? At eleven. The ocean wasn’t a foreign world for her – it was home and still is.
But it wasn’t always easy. “I didn’t start studying until I was thirty,” Sonia tells me with a half-smile. “I’m dyslexic. I worked on boats and had a full life before academia ever crossed my mind. But then marine biology found me. It changed everything.”
That might be the first of many things Sonia has in common with the gorgonians she studies – those otherworldly, flowy sea fans that sway in the deep like the ocean’s breath. Misunderstood. Mysterious. Resilient. Adaptable.
Sonia doesn’t just study them. She dives to depths with her rebreather where most scientists wouldn’t dare go. Down in the mesophotic zone (twilight waters between 30 to over 150 meters), every minute counts. Every extra second adds to the decompression time. There’s no room for error. The silence there is absolute. And yet… it’s in that silence where Sonia hears the most.
Photo Dr. Lauren Freeman
In the picture Sonia J. Rowley in her first drysuit
“Gorgonians taught me to adapt,” she says. “They’re not like most fish, all flashy screaming, ‘look at me.’ They don’t need to be, they’re elegant, they just are. They find a way to grow, to persist, to thrive – no matter the current, no matter the depth.”
Diving that deep and scientific work does, isn’t just physically demanding – it’s political. As a woman in a field historically dominated by men, Sonia had to fight for her place. “People took credit for my work. I had to prove myself again and again. It’s exhausting,” she admits. “But then I look at these corals – anchored in a place that’s constantly changing, somehow still alive – and I remember why I’m here.”
And what a place it is.
“Being down there,” she says, “is like swimming through a living, breathing museum of natural history. You’re face to face with species that have existed for millions of years. It’s humbling.”
The deeper she goes, the more questions arise. Why choose to live here, little fella, in this dark space when you could be basking in tropical sunlight? It’s the same question she often asks herself. Why not take the easy route? Maybe because neither she nor the gorgonians were made for easy.
Her research is groundbreaking. She’s helping us understand how these corals have evolved, how they’ve adapted to drastic environmental changes over millennia, and how we
might use that knowledge to conserve what little remains of our reefs today. The gorgonians’ abundance and diversity actually increase with depth, especially because most species do not rely on sunlight unlike the shallow reef-building hard corals do. They are survivors. Indicators. Perhaps even the early warning system for what’s to come.
“The mesophotic zone often shows us the future,” Sonia says. “It’s like a signal from the depths about what’s going to happen in the shallows. What survives here today might also dominate the reefs tomorrow.”
But the message is clear: we’re running out of time.
“We’re losing reefs before we even know what’s down there,” she warns. “Human activity, rising sea levels, temperature changes, it’s happening fast. Faster than in the past, when species had time to adapt and not faced with the multitude of stressors of today.”
She tells me about the island communities she works with. Tiny dots in the middle of vast oceans, where people are already losing their homes and land to the rising sea. There’s no future planning, just a scramble to survive. The ocean has always given to us. Now it’s taking back.
What Sonia’s doing isn’t just science. It’s storytelling through data, a love letter to a part of the world most will never see.
Photo Marla Tomorug
Photo Sonia J. Rowley
Photo Sonia J. Rowley
Photo Sonia J. Rowley
Photo Mandarine
Chyba
Polka w Paradajsie
Photo Marla Tomorug
AUSTRALIA
"Australia is full of surprises. You think you know what to expect, but it astonishes you every time."
Douglas Adams
Text SYLWIA KOSMALSKA-JURIEWICZ
Photos ADRIAN JURIEWICZ
Discovering unknown places energizes us, makes us braver, more attentive and creative, and allows us to see certain things from a new perspective. Cities hold countless secrets, just waiting for someone to uncover them. As we wander through their streets, we feel like explorers stepping into an unknown world.
The moment we pass through the glass doors of Sydney Airport, my breath quickens. Australia, the land of our dreams, is becoming reality. By the time we reach the hotel, it’s already late. We have been traveling for twenty-four hours. Sleep comes unexpectedly as I rest my head on the snow-white pillow in our hotel room. The story of this place will wait until morning to slowly reveal its secrets.
The morning in Sydney greets us with the aroma of oat milk coffee and a warm almond croissant that gently melts in our mouths. Culinary experiences are an inseparable part of every one of our journeys. Coffee tastes different in every corner of the world, and as an avid coffee lover, I savor each cup as a unique story about the place I’m in. Sydney is a large city located on the southeastern coast of Australia. At its heart lies a vast harbor, which opens its arms to welcome us. Its bays and inlets reflect the bustling life filled with the chatter of tourists. During a ride on the ferry, we get an up-close view of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks. Harbour Bridge, a 134-meter-high arch bridge, has connected both shores of the bay for over a century. Every New Year’s Eve, a grand fireworks show takes place nearby. Right next to it, on Bennelong Point, stands the majestic
Sydney Opera House – one of the most recognizable buildings in the world, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Designed by a Danish architect, its shape resembles either billowing sails or slices of juicy orange. The steps leading up to the Opera House are filled daily with crowds of tourists capturing this special moment in photographs.
Time in Sydney flows slowly, people are not in a rush. They take their time to enjoy coffee, conversations, and relaxing in the park. One might even feel like the grass grows slower here than anywhere else in the world. The city is very well-maintained and well-connected – you can get almost anywhere by tram, or if you prefer, by walking. Strolling through a place like Sydney is a sheer pleasure. We were enchanted not only by the city itself but also by its surroundings. We visit the famous Bondi Beach – a shore of white, coral sand whose name comes from the Aboriginal word "Bondi," meaning "the sound of breaking waves." And indeed, the waves here can be impressive, attracting surfers from around the globe. From the beach, we head to a farm that serves as a sanctuary for rescued animals. There, we meet a young wombat who survived a tragic accident that took its mother’s life on the road. Though it is blind in one eye and requires a special diet,
its cheerful nature melts the hearts of all visitors. It loves massages, which its devoted caretaker gives several times a day. We also meet koalas rescued during the devastating wildfires of 2019–2020. These adorable creatures, which feed exclusively on eucalyptus leaves, spend nearly their entire lives in trees. Among the spacious enclosures, kangaroos lounge in the sun or hop around the area with the kind of joy one associates with children at play.
We continue our journey towards the Blue Mountains, where over 1,032,649 hectares are covered by various species of eucalyptus. These extraordinary plants release essential oils that form a haze in the air. This process creates the
blue mist that wraps around the peaks, making the eucalyptus forests appear out of this world.
After three days in Sydney, we travel north to Cairns –a tourist city with a holiday vibe and high temperatures, known as the gateway to the underwater kingdom of the Great Barrier Reef.
The next day, we leave the port in Cairns aboard a spacious twin-hull catamaran from the "Mike Ball Dive Expeditions" fleet. Just as the captain starts the engines, a rainbow appears on the horizon, like a promise of a wonderful voyage. The catamaran is designed for multi-day diving expeditions, and we will spend seven nights aboard. There are three decks available to guests. The lower deck serves as a dive center, where each diver has their own station for preparing equipment, and underwater photographers can safely store and charge their cameras in designated areas. The cabins, varying in standard but all located on the same level, are also on the lower deck. The upper deck features a dining area connected to a spacious lounge, an outdoor terrace, and the captain’s bridge. On the top deck, sun loungers bathed in blue sky await guests – the perfect place to relax after diving. Thanks to its twin-hull construction, the catamaran offers a sense of security and stability, even in large waves. There are three vessels offering diving safaris on the Coral Sea. The one we chose is widely regarded as the best in every respect.
Before setting sail, Marita – our onboard manager – paid tribute to Australia’s Aboriginal people with a moving statement: “First, I’d like to express gratitude to the Traditional Owners of this land, the custodians of the magnificent marine park we are about to explore.” After her speech, we listened to a long safety briefing, during which every participant received a personal GPS locator and was trained in its use and other emergency procedures.
Aboard the catamaran, our days start early. We wake up at 6:30, and half an hour later we meet on the lower deck for the briefing. At 7:15, we gently slip into the crystal-clear waters of the Coral Sea. The expedition includes twenty-eight people, twenty-six of whom are experienced divers with AOWD certification and at least 30 logged dives – a requirement, since only two dives a day (morning and night) are guided. The rest require independent underwater navigation using a compass or natural landmarks. Each day, we can do up to five dives – morning, afternoon, and night. The captain anchors the catamaran near the reef. From the lower deck, we enter the water with a giant stride and descend along the mooring line, slowly immersing ourselves in the blue until the Great Barrier Reef reveals itself –beautiful, vibrant, and colorful. After each dive, we return to the boat, but if someone surfaces too far away, all they need to do is raise their hand (the agreed-upon signal), and the dinghy comes to assist. On the top deck, crew members keep watch with binoculars, closely monitoring the area while divers are underwater.
Each dive in the Coral Sea is an extraordinary experience. During the expedition, we visited over 20 unique dive sites, including the famous Steve’s Bommie – a true underwater paradise teeming with life. The pinnacle rises from the seabed like a mountain, from 5 to 30 meters deep, and its walls are covered in lush, multicolored coral gardens. Nudibranchs posed like models for photos, and in a rocky crevice, I spotted a carpet shark – a species I had only seen before in distant Raja Ampat. Seeing it here in Australia was a remarkable surprise and unique experience.
Diving in Australia fulfilled our expectations. Before the trip, we read a lot about this region, and many sources mentioned a dying reef. Instead, we found ourselves diving in locations where the reef was as vibrant as in Raja Ampat, and the marine life was thriving as if by magic. We saw countless reef sharks, particularly during night dives – some of the most beautiful we have ever experienced. Friendly groupers were also a highlight, especially one that swam up close and seemed to crave affection. It was hard to resist petting this sociable creature. Some sites, however, did show more signs of coral bleaching and had noticeably fewer marine animals. Coral reefs around the world now face a deadly threat. Scientists warn of an unprecedented scale of coral die-off. The main cause is a rise in ocean temperatures by just 2°C – enough to cause heat stress in corals. Without their symbiotic algae, they lose their color and eventually die from starvation. We are aware of how few people in the world have the chance to dive and witness such moments. That’s why we share the beauty of the underwater world that still exists. Every dive is a race against time, a desperate attempt to capture the reef’s beauty before it disappears forever.
THE BEGINNING OF THE END FOR DOLPHINARIUMS IN MEXICO
A historic victory in the fight for marine mammal welfare
Text and photos JAKUB BANASIAK, FREE & SAFE
In June 2025, after decades of tireless efforts by animal protection organizations, activists, and scientists, Mexico achieved a historic milestone. The Mexican Senate unanimously passed the "MINCHO LAW" – a sweeping reform that bans the use of dolphins and other marine mammals in entertainment shows across the country.
This is not only the beginning of the end for the dolphinarium era in Mexico but also a groundbreaking moment for marine mammal protection on a global scale.
Suffering in concrete pools – why was this change essential?
For decades, the entertainment industry exploited the extraordinary intelligence and social nature of dolphins to generate massive profits. In small concrete pools, far from their natural habitat, these intelligent creatures were forced to perform tricks for the amusement of tourists. They were bred in captivity but, more often, captured directly from the wild.
Many animals died from stress, inter-animal aggression, accidents, poor living conditions, or during transport between
facilities. Dolphins, who in the wild travel dozens of kilometers each day, dive to depths of hundreds of meters, and live in complex family-based societies, were condemned to life in artificial, barren, cramped tanks – performing tricks that often posed serious risks to their health and even their lives.
The first attempt in 2022 – unfulfilled
promises
The story of Mexico’s dolphinarium ban dates back to 2022. That year, the Chamber of Deputies first approved the ban, sparking great hope among animal rights advocates. The bill, spearhead-
ed by Deputy Karen Castrejón Trujillo, stated that marine mammals could only be used for scientific or educational purposes.
However, reality turned out to be much more complicated than the legislative language suggested. Although a federal law banning tourist attractions from exhibiting or offering interactions with dolphins was passed at the end of 2022, not a single animal was released. In practice, the legal provisions were ineffective, and dolphinarium owners found ways to circumvent the bans.
The 2022 law was an extension of the 2015 legislation that prohibited the use of wild animals in circuses. That earlier law had already exposed serious challenges related to relocating rescued animals – many of which ended up in the controversial so-called “sanctuary” for big cats known as Black Jaguar–White Tiger, located on the outskirts of Mexico City. The facility, operated by a charity with offices in California and Mexico, was shut down in July by the environmental protection agency Profepa after reports revealed that the animals there were suffering from starvation and extreme neglect.
There is no doubt that the current reform will bring even greater challenges in relocating dolphins to coastal marine sanctuaries – sanctuaries that, in fact, do not yet exist and will have to be created from scratch. And this is a process that is demanding, painstaking, labor-intensive, and expensive.
June 2025 – the definitive beginning of the end
The true breakthrough came on June 24, 2025. The Mexican Senate unanimously approved the “Mincho Law” with a 99–0 vote, enacting a comprehensive reform of the General Wildlife Law. The new legislation mandates humane, lifelong care for marine mammals currently held in captivity and imposes significant fines for non-compliance.
This new legal framework is far stricter than previous attempts at reform. It introduces nationwide restrictions on the ownership and use of marine mammals. The key provisions include:
● A ban on captive breeding, except for conservation purposes (e.g., species reintroduction).
● A ban on acquiring new marine mammal specimens.
● A ban on acrobatic shows involving dolphins, orcas, sea lions, and other animals.
● A ban on the use of concrete tanks as permanent habitats for these species.
Dolphins currently held in dolphinariums and marine entertainment facilities will remain in captivity, but must now be cared for under strict animal welfare standards until their natural death.
This far-reaching reform affects around 30 facilities across Mexico, where approximately 350 dolphins are currently kept in captivity. It also prohibits traveling dolphin shows and the future acquisition of marine mammals.
For a country that has long been a hub of dolphin-based entertainment – drawing millions of tourists each year – this new law represents a profound moral and political shift.
Where does the name “Mincho
Law” come from?
Mincho was a dolphin exploited in the dolphinarium at the Barceló Hotel on the Riviera Maya. His story became a symbol of animal abuse in Mexico and sparked a series of legal and social actions in defense of marine mammals.
In November 2020, during an acrobatic performance, Mincho suffered a serious accident when he collided with a concrete platform outside the pool.
The incident was never reported to environmental authorities, as required by law. Despite a veterinarian prescribing 15 days of recovery, Mincho was forced to return to performing just two days after the accident. Moreover, at the time of the incident, Mincho was known to have eye problems – a condition his handlers were aware of – yet he was still compelled to perform acrobatics.
A video of the accident, widely shared on social media in 2025, brought public attention to the case. The Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) conducted an inspection, uncovering numerous violations, including unauthorized acrobatic shows, the use of dolphins undergoing medical treatment in performances without veterinary approval, extreme overcrowding in small tanks, and dangerously high water temperatures in the dolphin pools. As a result, Profepa permanently shut down the dolphinarium at the hotel and imposed a fine of 7.5 million pesos.
Following the accident, Mincho was reportedly transferred to another facility run by the same company in Cancún. However, his current condition remains uncertain, as there has been no official confirmation of whether he is still alive. Experts suggest that, after such a severe impact, his chances of survival were slim. In fact, at least two other dolphins – Alex and Plata –have died in recent years at the Barceló Riviera Maya dolphinarium. Most of these tragic cases are carefully concealed by the dolphinarium chain’s owners; animals are frequently swapped, relocated between facilities, and the details of when and how each one died often remain unknown.
Consequences for the entertainment industry
The "Mincho Law" carries significant implications for Mexico’s tourism industry. Companies or individuals who use dolphins for entertainment purposes can now face fines of up to 300,000 pesos (approximately 16,000 USD).
It is expected that many parks across Mexico will soon face such penalties. However, in truth, this amount is relatively small compared to the revenues generated by dolphinariums.
Challenges in implementing the new law
Despite the historic nature of this decision, implementing the “Mincho Law” will not be easy. The main challenges include:
1. Logistical Issues
Relocating hundreds of dolphins from concrete tanks to natural sea enclosures requires massive financial and logistical resources. Not all locations are suitable for establishing safe
marine sanctuaries. In fact, there is not yet a single fully operational coastal sanctuary of this kind anywhere in the world, meaning there’s a lack of proven best practices, cost estimates, and concrete lessons learned – especially on such a large scale.
2. Resistance from the captive dolphin industry
Dolphinarium owners, who have invested heavily in these facilities over the years, are expected to seek ways to circumvent the new regulations or to lobby for their weakening. Dolphinariums are notorious for brazenly justifying their operations by claiming to conduct scientific research, insisting their shows have educational value, or portraying their dolphins as "ambassadors" for their wild counterparts. Some argue they serve the public good by offering dolphin-assisted therapy. All of this is used to legitimize keeping dolphins in captivity and to continue running a cruel, profit-driven business built on animal suffering.
3. Monitoring and enforcement
Effective implementation of the new law requires constant monitoring and enforcement by state authorities – which, until now, have often been slow or ineffective. Furthermore, as previously mentioned, many dolphinariums forge documents, lend dolphins to one another to conceal individual deaths, and manipulate records. To the untrained observer, it's nearly impossible to identify which dolphin is which. Corruption also plays a role in undermining enforcement.
What can the public do?
As dolphin lovers and advocates for their rights around the
world, we can actively support the implementation of Mexico’s new law. Here are four key actions we can take
1. Openly boycott dolphinariums and speak out about it. Use social media and personal conversations to raise awareness. Educate your friends, discuss the issue on online forums and social platforms, and – politely but firmly – call out inappropriate behavior when people boast about visiting dolphin shows or openly plan trips to such facilities.
2. Support organizations like World Animal Protection, Empty the Tanks, and Animal Heroes. These groups play a critical role in monitoring and pushing for enforcement of the new law. Help amplify their efforts by sharing their posts, appeals, petitions, and updates with your networks.
3. Share scientific evidence about the suffering of dolphins in captivity. Public education is a cornerstone of meaningful change. By increasing awareness, we can build public pressure on policymakers in different countries to adopt similar protections.
4. Use your power as a consumer. Demand that international hotel chains and tour operators stop promoting attractions involving captive dolphins.
A future without dolphinariums
Mexico’s “Mincho Law” represents a fundamental shift in how we perceive the relationship between humans and marine mammals. dolphins as objects of entertainment, society is beginning to recognize them as intelligent beings with their own needs and rights.
This is not only the end of the dolphinarium era – it is the beginning of a new chapter in marine mammal protection. The road to this victory was long and difficult – from the first legislative attempts in 2022, through years of weak enforcement, to the decisive legal triumph in June 2025. Of course, much work remains to be done. But this success proves that sustained scientific, social, and political efforts can lead to profound changes in how we treat animals.
It also reminds us that the real challenge is only beginning – effectively implementing and enforcing the new law will require continued vigilance and commitment from everyone who cares about dolphin welfare.
Mexico has shown the world that it is possible to prioritize animal wel fare over tourism profits. Now, it is up to other countries to follow suit and bring an end – once and for all – to the global exploitation of marine mammals for entertainment.
Each of us can contribute to this change – through conscious choices as trav elers, by supporting animal protection organizations, and by educating others about the true nature of dolphins. Only then can the vision of a world where these extraordinary creatures live free and safe become a reality.
Very I mportant Spot
Text DOMINIKA ABRAHAMCZYK
Photos PERFECT DIVER
I think I’ll remember the scent of rosemary, carried along most hiking trails of this little Croatian island, for the rest of my life.
VIS – IS ONE OF THE MOST INTRIGUING AND LEAST TOURISTSATURATED ISLANDS IN THE ADRIATIC.
Known for its crystal-clear waters, underwater caves, and World War II wrecks, it offers something very special to curious divers. But how did our editorial adventure on this island begin?
Invited by Nautica Vis Diving Center, we arrived on Vis by ferry from Split. The journey takes just over two hours and already offers stunning views of nearby islands and the beautifully colored sea. The only thing missing was the appearance of dolphins – common in these waters – but alas, not this time. Still, this was only the beginning of our story on Vis.
We wouldn’t be ourselves if we hadn’t kicked things off with a stop at a local spot for some fuel – in the culinary sense. Right by the harbor, Mamma Mia 2 serves tasty food and colorful smoothies, living up to its tourist-friendly vibe. The name, of
course, references the movie – scenes from the second part were filmed right on one of Vis’s beaches! Bellies full, we were ready to dive into adventure.
Dive weeks here typically start on Sundays, with an official welcome briefing where the entire dive center staff is introduced – a great idea, because you immediately know who to talk to about what (not that we’re ever any trouble ;)). We also get to meet the other dive groups arriving to explore local sites –and to our surprise, we even bump into some old friends. It’s already shaping up to be a great week. We’re split into smaller subgroups “according to purpose,” as some guests are pursuing specific training. With such strong infrastructure for courses, it would be a shame not to take advantage! We, however, are here to work. The Sunday check dive – conducted just offshore – lets
us fine-tune our weighting and get prepared for the excitement to come.
Most dives here are conducted from boats. Nautica has two of its own vessels (plus a RIB), and each evening we check which boat we’re assigned to, what time we’re setting out, and who our dive guide will be the next day. Neptune was fairly kind to us, with only one day of significant swell.
Now I have to admit – perhaps shamefully – I’m not a huge wreck enthusiast. I prefer dives focused on marine life and color. So I honestly wondered: Is Vis really for me? What a surprise I was in for…! There are dozens of dive sites featuring incredible rock formations, caverns, tunnels, and swimthroughs, all teeming with marine life. Vibrant colors, lush
seagrass meadows, gorgonians… Every dive felt too short to take it all in.
The even bigger surprise? For the first time in my life, I saw an aircraft wreck underwater – and discovered that wrecks can be fascinating. The B-24 bomber is truly impressive. Travel not only broadens the mind – it also teaches you a lot about yourself. For contrast, the next day we explored an archaeological site, and I genuinely hadn’t expected to see that many ancient amphorae in one place. My imagination ran wild, picturing trade routes, merchant ships, and ancient hands at work… Or maybe that was the nitrogen? ;)
But what about those dolphins? Well – they were there! On our second day, just after we descended, a pod started
leaping right next to the boat – so yes, everyone saw them… except the divers underwater ;)
Our afternoons were reserved for active relaxation – exploring the island and sampling local delicacies. No visit to Croatia is complete without trying ćevapi, and the ones served at Katarina or Kut are truly excellent.
Vis is also a treat for military history enthusiasts. It was once a Yugoslav military base and remained closed to foreigners until 1989. The island is full of remnants from that time – underground tunnels, bunkers, missile launch sites, and even a submarine pen. Wandering through these places, you're breathing in rosemary-scented air, filled with essential oils, while carefully scanning your surroundings to avoid walking face-first into a spiderweb ;)
One particularly interesting site is the former Allied airfield located in Velo/Plisko Polje. Today, there’s a building called Taverna Aerodrom, which genuinely dates back to WWII. The original signal towers and terminal structure are still standing, and the current Aerodrom farm is located inside a restored stone building that once served as both terminal and staff housing. The airfield was a strategic emergency landing point for damaged American bombers during the war, earning the name “The Last Hope”. In 2021, a book titled "Vis – The Last Hope" by Danijel Frka was published about its history. Today, the airfield is replaced by vineyards and farmland, and the taverna serves delicious local cuisine (don’t miss the grilled tuna steak!), wine, and olive oil, all alongside a small exhibition of retro photos showcasing the airport’s historical legacy.
The island is full of beautiful beaches, secluded coves, and scenic spots where you can watch breathtaking sunsets, serenaded by the sound of cicadas, a glass of Vugava – Vis’s local white wine – in hand.
Evenings often include activities organized by the dive center team, such as workshops, photo presentations, or a closing party at the end of the dive week.
Such a small island, and yet – so much to discover! Yes – one week was definitely too short to see even half of what Vis has to offer. One conclusion is clear: we absolutely have to return to Vis!
One Trip – Two Perspectives A DIALOGUE FROM THE DEEP
Text MONIKA & PRZEMYSŁAW ZYBER
WHY A “DIALOGUE”? BECAUSE EVEN THOUGH M AND P (THE MAIN CHARACTERS OF THIS STORY) USUALLY SPEAK WITH ONE VOICE, SOMETIMES – RIGHT BEFORE A DIVE – THAT VOICE SPLITS IN TWO. ONE OF THEM STARTS TO TREMBLE WITH NERVES, TEETERING ON THE EDGE OF PANIC, WHILE THE OTHER IS SO HYPED UP THAT HE SIMPLY CAN’T WAIT TO JUMP IN.
IT’S A KNOWN FACT: OPPOSITES ATTRACT. THE UNIVERSE ALWAYS SEEKS BALANCE.
So here we have him – P for short – a happy, fearless tech diver, thrilled by anything even remotely connected to diving. And her – M – when it comes to diving, she’s more cautious than romantic. The kind of diver who won’t set foot in the water before testing it with her big toe. Let’s be honest… a bit of a dive princess.
Yes, we know – diving is supposed to be a sport for the tough ones. Heavy tanks, deep depths, and your constant buddies “Cold” and “Dark” are part of the deal. But let’s not pretend there isn’t a category – or maybe even a subspecies
– of diver called the timid diver, or deep-sea softie, or maybe… let’s just say it… the panic diver. The one who’s scared – but still shows up and gives it another shot.
Like it or not, M fits into that category. An “underwater shy one" – and, as it turns out, not so rare.
But let’s not drag out the intro too long… here we go.
M and P booked a diving safari to the Maldives. Specifically, a southern route safari in March. He’s been there before. She hasn’t. He’s fearless and thrilled. She…
Photos PRZEMYSŁAW ZYBER
It’s September. And it begins…
M Honey, is it a problem that my fins are bright blue? Could that attract sharks? I really don’t want this to be my last safari...
P Bright? They’re just blue. Don’t panic...
M Don’t panic?! That sounds like an invitation! Oh God! They say the currents in the Maldives are brutal. Will I manage? I don’t want to get swept away to India or beyond... A hook! We absolutely need a reef hook. I’m not going without one!
P Relax, I already bought one. Brand new. Never used. We've got this.
M And what about my colorful hair? Could that attract sharks? What do you think? Wait, I need to check this – What colors attract sharks? Can sharks even see color? What about pink??? Will my signature dive style with rainbow braids be like multicolored sushi to a shark? :( Oh God, I don’t want to be a snack... or worse, the main course.
P Calm down. You know how many people die from shark attacks each year? About five. You know how many die from coconuts falling on their heads? Around 150! And yet you swing in hammocks under palms without worry.
M What will the water temperature be? 28 degrees Celsius... too warm for a thick wetsuit, maybe I need a vest with the thinnest one... What else? Oh! A new bikini. Absolutely need a new one. Can’t go to the Maldives with some wornout rags.
P Dear God... Just survive until March without losing our minds.
Maldives
M The word sounds like a lullaby sung by the waves. A land of a thousand islands, where the beaches are the color and texture of coconut flour, people are polite, smiling, and calm, life flows slowly, and wherever you look there's turquoise water stretching to the horizon.
You can do absolutely nothing here, sipping drinks – or everything, especially underwater. It’s a true mecca for divers and freedivers from all over the world. Coral, fish, turtles, sharks, mantas – even whale sharks if you're lucky – all within fin's reach.
Airports in the Maldives look like someone dropped a terminal in the middle of the ocean. You step off the plane and feel like apologizing to your lungs for years of smog and air conditioning. The airport is little more than a roof. Before you can say "Hello" to your dive crew, you're already on the boat.
That memorable dive briefing – day one
M The first two dives are totally chill... shallow, calm, a "buoyancy check" classic. The wetsuit gets soaked, we get used to the scene... total dive groove. I think, "Okay, this isn’t bad." There are currents, but I’m managing... hope it stays this way.
That sense of calm vanishes during the third briefing. It's a wreck dive, and strong currents are expected. It’s also the perfect moment for the guides to explain all the types of currents we might encounter in the Maldives, how they’re classified, how to behave... the word "current" comes up more than I can handle without a spike in blood pressure.
P: Finally. It was getting boring. I didn’t come to the Maldives to flutter my fins. I came to be swept by currents. Now the real fun begins!
Love at first plunge?
M Not sure it was love... maybe a weak handshake. After that colorful briefing, my head is spinning. A week of sunbathing suddenly sounds very tempting. But I don’t want to sunbathe. I want to dive. I want to see sharks, mantas, all that magic. But my brain feels like I’m already caught in a spin cycle.
No wonder briefings like that tighten your guts. Even if you resist. It works fast.
Sylwia keeps asking me: "You going? You sure you’re going?" Seems like the briefing hit her hard too, and she’s looking for a partner to back out with.
I’m pacing the empty salon (everyone else is gearing up). I feel like a fly trapped in a house, bouncing off windows. Looking for a sign. Maybe it won’t be so bad? Maybe they just exaggerate to scare us? But what if I get swept away? What if... this, that... The brain spins doomsday scripts. Stress peaks.
P I see the madness in her eyes. No advice yet. I load my camera into its housing, hoping the storm will pass in a minute or two. But I can’t avoid M’s gaze. She's torn. Finally, I say: "If you skip this one, you’ll be scared before every dive."
M Damn it... he’s right.
Yeeeeah...
M And this... THIS... is the worst dive of the trip! You can't see a thing! A strong current pushes tons of white silt right into our faces. It’s like a snowstorm underwater. Even with our lights on, visibility is near zero.
I can barely make out the fins in front of me. I cling to them like never before. My heart is pounding. No joy. Just stress and mental spirals: What if I lose sight of those fins? Struggling to keep pace with the group, against this mad current, not to get lost. My only mission: don’t lose those fins.
And in my head: censored version – WHAT THE HELL AM I DOING HERE???
I surface on shaky knees, thoroughly disappointed. The dive of a lifetime? Right. Saw nothing, fought the current for an hour straight...
I hate dives like this.
Period.
P Yep, it was full of silt, but not boring! Nutrient-rich currents mean the corals and fish on the wreck were different than elsewhere. At around 15m, visibility improved. I pulled
out the camera. The darker corners of the wreck were thrilling. Too bad I explored them alone – the rest of the group didn’t dare.
M No, no, and NO! If that’s what Maldives diving is like, count me out. I try not to dwell on what just happened. Still, I know tomorrow's dive won't be any easier. Not for me.
P Sweetheart, it probably won’t get worse than that. I try to comfort M, even if I’m not entirely sure.
End of the Warm-Up
From the second day of diving, the safari kicks into full gear. On the first dive we drop down into the blue, 36 meters deep... and there they are – sharks. Loads of sharks just staring at us. We hang for a moment on our reef hooks, and then... the current takes us and this "colorful underwater movie" starts flying by like someone hit the fast-forward button.
Oh... a turtle! Another one, and another... a ray, a moray eel, clownfish... we fly with the current without the slightest effort, like we’d bought an all-inclusive dive package. No fin kicks needed, just let go and enjoy the ride.
M: I let go of control, give in to the moment, let the film roll fast without rewinding or pausing. Normally I like to stop and observe, but not this time. I just fly. And you know what? IT'S FANTASTIC! Sharks, rays, tons of turtles, eagle ray... oh my God, an eagle ray! ;) Wait! I want to look at it! Slow down! ... No chance. I fly over it trying to brake, to soak it in, but the cur-
rent has other plans! Oh well! I think, maybe I’ll get lucky and see another eagle ray later. On the safety stop I think: Aaaa... so this is what diving in the Maldives is like? Okay. This I can handle! SO AWESOME!
There’s never a dull moment... everything happens faster... in just an hour we see so much marine life it's hard to process. I come out amazed. And I'm not the only one. Enthusiastic divers all around listing what they saw. After a dive like this, I'm finally hungry for more...
Bring on the views!
M It doesn’t get old! Another dive and again – sharks. So many sharks – parading right in front of us.
P Yes! This is what the Maldives are famous for! A wall of sharks in front of our faces. We hang on the slope, hooked in. Beneath us, a blue abyss without end. We’re at nearly 40 meters, so NDL is long gone. Air bubbles go sideways, not up. The current pulls my mask off when I try to look around. My regulator is clenched so it doesn’t get yanked out. Damn, how am I supposed to take a selfie like this? Epic scenes unfold in front of the lens, and my camera is almost overheating. I tell myself: Slow down, save battery, make it last. After a 15-minute deco stop is announced, comes the call: "Unhook!" And then the rodeo begins. The powerful current grabs us. We race like mad. It pushes us into the archipelago canyons, gaining even more speed. I’m giddy like a kid on a roller coaster. I see M isn’t
fighting it. She let herself go too. Beautiful, I think. She’ll come out thrilled.
M I fly with the current like everyone else. It’s fun, but halfway through the dive the current gets so strong my heart starts pounding like crazy. I hold onto my reef hook for dear life. Without it, I'd be in trouble.
The current pulses, slamming us every few seconds with such force that our movement becomes jerky. When it hits, I cling close to the reef to minimize resistance. When it eases slightly, I try to follow the guide, though it takes a lot of effort. It’s a battle. I feel my calves and muscles firing on all cylinders. Turning my head to check where the guide is rips my mask off every time and floods it. Ugh... I don’t like this. I ask myself: Is this still fun, or not? I’m not sure.
On the one hand, it's exciting – a challenge, a test. On the other, here come the fears. What if I miss the moment to hook in and get swept far from the group? That thought stresses me most. I try to keep it out of my head. I focus fully on the task. I stay right behind the guide. I move in the rhythm set by the ocean. There’s no other way. This little bastard of a current is yanking us hard, trying to tear us off the reef and the rocks we latch onto meter by meter.
After about 20 minutes of this struggle, the guide signals it's time for the safety stop. Some of us are already running low on air from the intense effort.
Okay, I think, now we have to let go of the rocks – the only thing keeping us somewhat together. We’re still at about 15 meters. Alright... full of worry, I unhook and drift into the blue. At least I'm not the only one being carried away now... I make sure, no matter what, to stay close to the guide. That's my golden rule: "Always stay near the guide." It works. The safety stop goes well. We're all together. Though the current keeps pushing us in some unknown direction. We stick close. This is my comfort zone.
At the surface, we drift into another current. The "washing machine" starts. We spin in circles for a good 15 minutes before the dive boat picks us up. P is five meters below, preferring to stay underwater with his camera rather than struggle with gear on the surface. Interestingly, in the washing machine current, his bubbles flow downward instead of up.
P In the evening, the stories never end. Everyone shares how amazing the dives were. We wrap up after midnight, exhausted like horses after plowing fields.
Nobody expects our sleep to be brutally interrupted by a knock at the door and a whisper:
"Whale shark!!!"
P My eyelids are still tangled in sleep, limbs too tired to cooperate. My ears fail me. "Honey, what are they saying? It's 4 AM and still dark!"
M I think they said "whale shark."
P It dawns on me: a whale shark, lured by plankton gathering near the ship's lights, has come to the boat. Every fiber of me screams: stay in bed! But the photographer in me can’t ignore this. I rush to set up my camera, grab my mask, fins, swim trunks, and in moments I’m in the water. The boat buzzes with excitement, but underwater, silence reigns. The massive whale shark, several meters long, calmly gulps down the snow-white plankton cloud.
In the beam of a powerful light pointed at the surface, the view is breathtaking. My mind is a mess. I don’t know if it’s from emotion or lack of sleep. Focus, I tell myself. This is your one shot to get amazing photos.
I do the math in my head – aperture, shutter speed, ISO. The aperture can’t be too small – he's huge and needs to be fully sharp. Shutter speed can't be too long, or it’ll blur. Not too short either – high ISO will kill the detail. ISO is the tradeoff between aperture and speed. Too low: underexposed. Too high: noise ruins it.
Settings locked. Now, the frame. The shark weaves underwater, changing direction. I try to capture the perfect shot, like a sniper on a life-or-death mission. No burst mode. I hate sifting through thousands of shots just to maybe find a good one. I take a few – thoughtful, precise, no wasted clicks. I know, even underwater: this is going to work.
Even though I’m free diving, I wait for the perfect moment, shaking, to click the shutter. The shark circles the boat for nearly an hour. Sometimes it disappears into the dark depths, only to return moments later. When the sky turns strawberry-blue, it finally swims away.
That’s magic.
P But the safari isn’t over yet. No time for sleep. Next morning dive is coming. Tired but happy, I prep for the next adventure. The briefing tells us the currents will be strong again. Good, I think – I’m too tired to fin. The pattern repeats. First dive’s the deepest, so we drift toward the drop-off, waiting for sharks. Then we enter the canyons. A wide sandy channel pulls us into the islands. On the horizon, eagle rays appear like birds. I wish we could stop and feast our eyes – and memory cards. But the current, again, has other plans. The sandy bottom has no hook holds. We fight the current, trying to stay with the eagle rays for a moment. They float, barely moving their wings. We fight like mad to hold position. Soon we give up.
The canyon widens and the current slows. Suddenly, we hover above a stunning colorful reef. In nearly every nook – a turtle. So many of them. Some sleeping, others swimming freely among us, posing for photos. They accompany us through our safety stop. Even at the end of the dive, we’re looking in every direction – there are just that many.
Sounds like a dream?
P For me and for M, this Maldivian safari was a dream come true. We spent time with friends. The sheer volume of amazing adventures fuels new dive plans in our minds. It was also a time for M to conquer her fears – of currents, depth, decompression. She looked a tiger shark in the eye (more than once!) and didn’t end up as its snack. On the contrary – now she wants more. Deeper, wilder, more exotic. Our shared dives teach her courage, and me – patience ;)
M The Maldives, in my memory, taste like a coconut picked fresh from a palm tree – as a second breakfast. It's a fantastic, leisurely surface time... but underwater it's 5th gear, where everything happens fast and wild. A trip to the Maldives is like a "VIP Poseidon Package": whale sharks, tiger sharks, blacktip, silvertip, hammerheads, turtles, eagle rays... I can't even remember it all.
M & P We saw almost everything we hoped to see, except for mantas –missing from our fairytale route. Not a coincidence. A reason to return. To plan again. To count down the days until we dive once more into the blue depths of the Indian Ocean. One thing is sure: this was our best dive safari ever – so far ;)
And while there were many more adventures... we can't reveal everything. We could describe every close encounter in vivid detail... but no story will ever capture what you feel down there. That moment of silence, when all you hear is your breath and your heart beating faster than usual. Because it's not about how many species you see. The most important thing is to be part of that incredible, unrepeatable, unique moment – one no one can ever take from you. So if you get the chance – dive! Not for records, not for photos. Dive to experience it all for yourself.
Where to dive with sharks?
SHARKS CALENDAR!
Text ANNA METRYCKA
WE LOVE DIVING. WE LOVE DISCOVERING NEW PLACES, EXPLORING NEW DESTINATIONS, AND PIONEERING OUR OWN DIVING PATHS. With time, we start choosing trips based on our personal tastes and preferences. One of the leading motivations for many divers is choosing a destination specifically to see certain marine species.
Among us, there are fans of big marine animals, massive schools of fish, and macro photography enthusiasts – those fascinated by the world of tiny creatures (critters) and everything small and not always visible at first glance underwater. In this article, I’ll try to guide you through a diving map focused on larger marine life – namely sharks. Where can we find them? When? And which species might we get to dive with?
There are over 500 species of sharks in the world, ranging from just a few centimeters long to more than 16 meters. Out of this vast number, only 12 species are capable of attacking humans, and only 5 or 6 actually pose a real threat. This simple math shows that the vast majority of sharks are safe for us – as long as we follow a few simple guidelines, which I wrote about in the “Sharks” article in issues 22 and 23 of PD Magazine.
Let’s start with the TOP 4! Without a doubt, the Pacific Ocean is home to a constellation of shark-diving stars: the Galápagos, Cocos Island, Malpelo, and the Revillagigedo Archipelago (also known as Socorro). Between these volcanic islands, you can witness the migration of hammerhead sharks, Galápagos sharks, silky sharks, whale sharks, tiger sharks, and grey reef sharks.
1. GALÁPAGOS.
The Galápagos are a dream destination –I absolutely recommend making that dream come true You can dive there year-round, both from land and on liveaboards, but the highest concentration of hammerhead sharks is around Wolf and Darwin Islands. These volcanic islands, part of Ecuador and 97% designated as a National Park, are a true animal kingdom. Best time to dive? June to October – when the water
Photo ProDive
is cooler, strong currents flow, and nutrient-rich waters attract massive schools of sharks. During this time, about 90% of the local hammerhead shark population gathers in these waters! The transitional months – November/December and April/ May – also offer excellent chances to see hammerheads and other shark species mentioned above (silky sharks, Galápagos sharks, tiger sharks), with concentrations of around 65–70%. That said, when you head out to Wolf and Darwin Islands, you're almost guaranteed to witness hundreds – if not thousands –of hammerhead sharks swimming past. It’s like a scene from a movie If you're aiming to see whale sharks (up to 15 meters long!!!) – your best chance is until the end of November or early December. It’s also worth noting that the Galápagos are home to endemic species, such as the Galápagos bullhead shark (also known as the Peruvian horn shark), along with countless other marine creatures – all together making it arguably the best dive destination in the world. An absolute TOP – a must-see!
2. REVILLAGIGEDO ARCHIPELAGO. If you think there’s no place comparable to the Galápagos – go to Socorro It’s a similar story when it comes to sharks, and on top of that, you’ll find a few other representatives of the “big animal” group. When is the best time to plan your Socorro trip? From November to June, especially November–January and May–June! Around the archipelago, you’ll find 12 species of sharks: whale sharks (November–December and again from April to June),
Galápagos sharks, hammerhead sharks, silky sharks (April–June), tiger sharks, white-tip and black-tip reef sharks, and grey reef sharks… quite a list What’s more, during the dives, they get really close to you! It’s common to hang mid-water for 20 minutes while hammerheads circle around you, creating a real shark tornado! Add to that the daily spectacles at the cleaning stations, with sharks taking center stage… you won’t know where to look To reach this exceptional place, you’ll need to fly into the Los Cabos region on the Baja California Peninsula. Then, to experience some of the best diving of your life, you’ll take a 27-hour liveaboard journey to the archipelago, which lies 400 km off the mainland. Is it worth it? That’s a rhetorical question. One of my TOP 3 dives!
3. COCOS ISLAND. One of the crown jewels of the volcanic triangle of the Pacific Ocean. The island was discovered in 1526 by Spanish explorer Joan Cabezas and is located about 500 km southwest of the coast of Costa Rica, to which it belongs! This tiny oasis of tropical rainforest in the eastern Pacific is known as the “Island of Sharks.” Here, you’ll experience close encounters with schools of hammerhead sharks, and you’ll see plenty of white-tip reef sharks and tiger sharks too! Just like Socorro, Cocos Island is a dream trip, and most experienced divers consider it one of the best dive spots in the world! The island attracts marine life from hundreds of miles around and is especially famous for its hammerhead sharks, often counted
Photo Łukasz Metrycki
in the hundreds Hammerhead season? May to November! A small note – don’t confuse Cocos Island with the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, which are located in the Indian Ocean and are an external territory of Australia! There, you’ll only see small reef sharks
4. MALPELO. When you think of diving, Colombia probably isn’t one of the first places that comes to mind. And here’s where I’ll surprise you! Hidden in the eastern part of the Pacific Ocean, 500 kilometers off the Colombian mainland, lies Malpelo Island. This small, rocky outpost might seem unremarkable on the surface, but the real treasures lie beneath the waves! Here, once again, we encounter one of the largest shark populations in the world! On every dive, you can expect to see between 200 and 300 hammerhead sharks, Galápagos sharks, and dozens of silky sharks! Not to mention the beautiful, massive whale sharks! The Malpelo region lies at the convergence of several important ocean currents from the Pacific and the Panama Bight, which undoubtedly contributes to the unique marine biodiversity in these waters. The protected waters of Malpelo also offer a rare opportunity to encounter the elusive short-nosed ragged-toothed shark. Best time to go? Summer or December/ January and March Hammerheads and Galápagos sharks
can be seen practically year-round, although their numbers vary. In summer, you can see whale sharks, while large schools of silky sharks appear around the island from April to July. If you want to see all of these animals together, the best months are June and July. If you're after the largest schools of hammerheads, December is your best bet. A bit complicated – but definitely doable
5. HAWAII. As I mentioned at the beginning of the article, there are about 500 species of sharks worldwide, and around 40 of them can be found in Hawaii. You’ll most often encounter three main species: Galápagos sharks, sandbar sharks, and tiger sharks – especially around Oahu and the Big Island (Kona). You might also get lucky and spot blue sharks, silky sharks, or even hammerheads. The best time to dive with sharks in Hawaii, particularly tiger sharks, is during the summer and fall months, specifically from May to November. This period aligns with the time when large female tiger sharks visit shallower waters, likely for mating or giving birth. Another factor is that species like Galápagos and sandbar sharks tend to move into deeper, cooler waters during this time. As a result, tiger sharks – which prefer warmer waters – take advantage of the opportunity to explore shallower areas that are usually occupied by other species. Early mornings and days with light winds offer the best visibility and calmest conditions for shark encounters, and those are exactly the kinds of dives I recommend! Also, yes, great white sharks have been spotted here… but I probably won’t be pushing for that kind of meeting
6. BAHAMAS. Sunny Bahamas are a world-class dive destination with easily accessible dive sites for divers of all experience levels. This extraordinary sanctuary is home to many shark species, including bull sharks, tiger sharks, hammerheads, lemon sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, oceanic white-tips, and blacktip reef sharks. All of these species attract divers to the region’s three main shark-diving hotspots: Tiger Beach, Bimini Island, and Cat Island. To see hammerhead sharks, it’s worth diving at Tiger Beach, where they’re most commonly spotted in February and March. Diving here is relatively easy – it takes place in shallow water, where divers kneel on the sandy bottom and watch… tiger sharks, bull sharks, hammerheads, nurse sharks, lemon sharks, and Caribbean reef sharks! And all of that between October and January–March. If you’re hoping to see hammerheads, plan a trip to Bimini Island between December and March, while Cat Island offers encounters with oceanic white-tip sharks from April to June. Highly recommended!
7. MEXICO. Yucatán, Cozumel, Sea of Cortez. I already mentioned the Revillagigedo Archipelago – which belongs to Mexico – but the country has several other great places for shark diving. If you’re on the Yucatán Peninsula, make sure to plan a snorkeling trip near Isla Mujeres. In the summer, the warm waters of the Caribbean attract whale sharks to the northern side of Isla Mujeres, creating one of the world’s largest gatherings of these gentle giants! The main season for swimming with whale
Photos Łukasz Metrycki
sharks at Isla Mujeres runs from May to September, with peak activity in June, July, and August. And between cenote dives, from late November to February/early March, make time for a dive with bull sharks! An unforgettable experience! The last spot I’d like to mention is the Sea of Cortez. Bahía de Los Ángeles is a unique location where, in each season (from May to September/October – but summer is best), up to 220 whale sharks gather! This summer aggregation of whale sharks in Bahía de Los Ángeles is practically legendary. Definitely one for the bucket list! :)
8. SOUTH AFRICA. Off the coast of South Africa, you’ll find more sharks than anywhere else on the planet – over 200 species in total. Around Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks, from December to February, you’ve got a good chance of seeing tiger sharks, bull sharks, oceanic blacktip sharks, raggies (a local name for sand tiger sharks), and white-tip reef sharks. From June to October, it’s full-on raggie season! And in December at Protea Banks – hammerhead sharks Sand tiger sharks are rarely seen and are easily recognizable by their jagged teeth, which they shed by the thousands throughout their lives! South Africa is a special place with a lot to offer, but you need to know how to plan your trip right I can’t skip mentioning Cape Town, where two ocean currents meet, creating a habitat for a wide
range of species from both warmer and colder environments –including sharks. When people hear the word “shark” in relation to False Bay, they usually think of great whites (cage diving, May to August), but it’s also a place where you can dive with the prehistoric looking sevengill shark. With a bit of luck, you might also encounter dusky sharks, shortfin makos, Natal shysharks, puffadder shysharks, pyjama sharks, or spotted gully sharks. Hammerheads, blue sharks, and makos can be seen underwater from November to March
9. MOZAMBIQUE. Mozambique is one of the best places in the world for diving with bull sharks. But that’s not all – you can also encounter whale sharks, tiger sharks, hammerheads, leopard sharks, grey reef sharks, white-tip, silvertip, and blacktip reef sharks! I recommend exploring the depths around Ponta do Ouro, Tofo, and Barra, as well as the marine sanctuary of the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park. The best time to dive with bull sharks (and most of the other species listed above) in Ponta do Ouro is from October to May, with December and March being the top months. That’s when bull sharks gather along the deeper reefs, and the best spot to observe them is Pinnacles Reef. Whale sharks, on the other hand, are most commonly spotted between October and April at Tofo Beach and in the Bazaruto Archipelago!
Photo Łukasz Metrycki
10. MALDIVES. With nearly 2,000 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives archipelago certainly doesn’t lack for amazing dive sites – you’ll find them almost everywhere! :) But if you’re specifically looking for nurse sharks, head to the coral reef at Alimathà Island, where you’ll likely be “surrounded” by over 100 sharks at once! It’s a mesmerizing spot during the day, but even more epic after dark, so be sure to plan a night dive! You can witness the same spectacle at Huvadhoo Atoll. Huvadhoo’s deep channels and thriving reef systems make it an ideal habitat for this species. Best time to visit? January to April. Also make sure to add Rasdhoo, South Ari, and Fuvahmulah to your list of must-dive shark destinations! You can spot whale sharks while diving or snorkeling at South Ari Atoll – on the western side from December to April, and on the eastern side from May to November. If you dream of encountering a tiger shark, I recommend heading to Fuvahmulah Atoll in the far south! Tiger Zoo is a world-renowned dive site that offers the chance to dive with tiger sharks right next to the island’s port. The best time for sightings is from December to March. And finally, grey reef sharks can be found at dive sites in South Malé Atoll and Vaavu Atoll, also between January and April. The Maldives are truly something special!
11. PALAU. The Republic of Palau, part of the Federated States of Micronesia, lies in the western Caroline Islands and is in free association with the United States. Located at the intersection of the Pacific Ocean and the Philippine Sea, on the edge of the world’s “Coral Triangle,” Palau is home to the world’s first shark
sanctuary, established in 2009, and rightfully ranks among the best dive destinations on Earth. One of the country’s standout dive sites is Blue Corner – a must for shark lovers. Here, nutrient-rich currents rip masks from divers' faces as they’re hooked into the edge of the reef, while grey reef sharks, blacktip and silvertip sharks, nurse sharks, leopard sharks, and even the occasional hammerhead glide by in a jaw-dropping underwater show. While these strong, unpredictable currents offer perfect conditions for shark encounters, they also demand solid experience with drift diving! Beyond the legendary Blue Corner, you can also spot bull sharks, tiger sharks, and zebra sharks at other dive sites throughout the archipelago. In short – Palau offers incredible diversity both above and below the surface… but more on that in the next issue The best time to visit? Technically from November, I’d recommend December through March.
12. PHILIPPINES, MALAPASCUA.
Tiny as a seashell, Malapascua Island lies just north of Cebu and measures only 1.5 by 2 kilometers. A true tropical paradise – but it owes its global fame to one very special shark: the thresher shark. Weighing in at around 250 kg and stretching up to 4 meters, these sleek predators are the Philippines’ signature species when it comes to sharks. One-third of their body length is made up of their iconic tail, which they use to stun prey. You can dive with them at Kimud Shoal, which replaced the formerly thresher-dominated Monad Shoal after the unexpected arrival of a tiger shark led to a shift in the threshers’ habitat. If you're lucky, you might even see a hammerhead! Thresher sharks can now be spotted
Photo Matt Reed
as shallow as 10–15 meters, and not just at sunrise as was the case at Monad – you’ve got a good chance throughout the day. I promise – this tiny island is absolutely worth the trip. Best time to go? They’re present year-round, but aim for November to May, with peak sightings from January to April.
13.
FRENCH POLYNESIA.
French Polynesia is a dream – a true paradise of crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches that has inspired travelers for centuries. But tucked within Tiputa Pass in Rangiroa lies one of the most remarkable dive spots in the region: the Canyons. Strong ocean currents here attract more than 200 grey reef sharks! These sharks are present all year long, but if you visit between January and March, you’ll increase your chances of encountering hammerhead sharks as well!
14. FIJI. Fiji, a South Pacific archipelago made up of over 300 islands, is known as the soft coral capital of the world – and rightly so. Its vibrant reefs burst with colorful coral gardens, and few places can rival Fiji when it comes to combining jaw-dropping coral with equally breathtaking sharks! If you manage to tear your eyes away from the reef, you’ll find yourself face to face with schools of these incredible creatures. Among the most commonly seen species are whitetip, grey, and blacktip reef sharks, along with silky sharks, zebra sharks, lemon sharks, hammerheads, and even whale sharks! The best dive spots for shark sightings include Gau Island, Nigali Passage, and Makongi. But if you want a close-up encounter with bull sharks, don’t miss the legendary shark dive in Beqa Lagoon, near Pacific Harbour on the main island of Viti Levu. On average, around 50 sharks show up here daily! Bull sharks are the stars of the show, but you might also see nurse, lemon, whitetip, blacktip, silvertip, grey reef sharks – and sometimes even tiger sharks. Bull shark dives run year-round, but for the best conditions, I recommend going between April and September.
15. AUSTRALIA, NORTHERN QUEENSLAND. Last but definitely not least – we can’t talk about diving without mentioning Australia. The Great Barrier Reef hardly needs an introduction, but one of the top spots for shark encounters along this iconic reef is Osprey Reef. This remote, deep-water coral atoll is home to grey reef sharks, silvertips, carpet sharks, hammerheads, and even tiger sharks! The prime season to dive here runs from June through December.
Photo ProDive
Let's talk a bit about
BOATS!
Text and photos TOMEK KULCZYŃSKI
HAVE ANY OF YOU EVER DIVED FROM A BOAT OR SOME OTHER KIND OF FLOATING VESSEL? A SEEMINGLY SIMPLE TOPIC, BUT ONE THAT'S QUITE IMPORTANT IN THE DIVING WORLD. As you progress in your diving journey, there comes a point where diving from a boat becomes inevitable—and with it, you discover a whole new dimension of diving.
Want to know what types of vessels we can dive from? What the differences between them are? The pros and cons? What hidden risks might be waiting for us? What this whole “boat diving” thing is all about? – Read on!
Let’s start with certifications. Do you need special training or a certification to dive from a boat? The answer is: YES... but ask your diving friends who travel the world – how many of them actually have one? Personally, I’ve seen both ends of the spectrum: Some trip organizers never asked about any such certification, while others made it mandatory before boarding. And if someone didn’t have it, they could often complete the course on the first day of diving – for an extra fee, of course In my humble opinion, the day is coming when you simply won’t be al-
lowed on a boat without the proper qualification. Why? Because of insurance companies! I once had a conversation with a boat operator about this, and as you all know, when it comes to paying out insurance claims… it gets complicated fast.
Another important topic when it comes to boats: seasickness!!! It’s a terrible condition – and just thinking about sitting on a RIB (that’s a big inflatable boat, photo below), with huge waves tossing it up and down… add to that the delightful smell of engine fuel and oil – if you know, you know Personally, I have a pretty low tolerance for seasickness. From a lot of experience, I know that up to Beaufort scale 3, it’s all good fun – no symptoms. At scale 4, I need a pill to help me out. Anything above that – I’m out. On the flip side, some people don’t get seasick at all. The bigger the waves, the more fun they have... But I also know folks who can’t even make it from the port in Hel to the “Bryza” wreck. And if you’ve ever been there – you know it’s barely a stone’s throw away! The good news is, seasickness usually passes after about three days at sea. Your inner ear adjusts, and then you’re ready to conquer the oceans. However, after a week on a boat, once you're back on land – you still feel like you're swaying!
Moving on to boats – let’s start with the smallest ones These are the most challenging types of boats to dive from. Usually, we board such a boat already fully geared up, because putting on equipment on board would be nearly impossible... When jumping in, we have to do a back roll (while holding the mask and regulator with one hand), and we do it two people at a time – from opposite sides – otherwise we risk capsizing. Diving from these boats is quite the feat, although with a bit of practice, anything is possible.
Next in size are the RIBs mentioned earlier. The acronym stands for Rigid Inflatable Boat, and these are known as hybrid
boats – because they have a hard bottom like a motorboat, and inflatable sides like a dinghy. Their size ranges from tiny three-seaters to large ones over 9 meters long. The outboard engines that power them vary in size, and usually – once the boat stops – you can definitely smell the exhaust fumes... Diving from this kind of boat is already much more user-friendly. You can load your dive gear onto the boat and secure it to the rack in the middle, and it safely travels with you to the dive site. You gear up while sitting on the inflatable edge of the boat. And here’s a nice tip – especially for twinset configurations – it’s great to put it on while straddling the side, with one leg in the boat and the other already in the water. You enter with a back roll as well, and to get back on board – you’ll need to take off your gear while still in the water and pull yourself up (if you can) – or simply use the ladder
We now move on to larger vessels, such as boats, trawlers, and motor barges. These already have a solid deck and are much more stable. Usually, they have benches where you
can comfortably gear up. You enter the water from the deck, and exit – depending on how the boat is set up – typically still in full gear, and you only take it off once you're seated on the bench. Diving from this type of boat is a piece of cake compared to the smaller ones – the rocking is less noticeable, and the risk of encountering problems is significantly lower.
Safari boats – now we’re talking luxury. On this kind of boat, you live, eat, and spend your days. It becomes your home for the duration of the trip, and just like at home – you don’t wear shoes on board! Usually, the entire back section of the boat is dedicated to diving. That’s where all your equipment is kept, where you suit up, and where you do your giant stride entry into the water, holding your mask and regulator with one hand. You exit using ladders, and after climbing out, you can rinse off with fresh water in the deck shower! Diving from a boat like this is pure pleasure and saves loads of time and energy.
The last category includes safari boats too, but not the luxury ones – we’re talking about boats that have been con-
verted specifically for divers, but without the perks of ensuite bathrooms. A cabin here means two bunks and that’s it Conditions on these boats are fairly basic. Life outside of diving takes place mostly in the mess hall. These boats are still pretty sizable. You’ll find benches and crates to store your dive gear, though they’re not always under a roof These boats are usually much taller than the luxury ones, and when you jump in, it’s about a 2-meter drop to the water... The upside is that with such a difference in height, there’s a special lift to get you back on board – which is an awesome feature. However, it’s very important to pay close attention during the briefing on how to use it, because you really need to watch where you put your hands and where you place your feet.
A common thread across all types of boat diving is that a lot depends on your configuration. When diving from a small boat in sidemount configuration, you can jump in wearing just your harness, and someone can hand you the tanks in the water so you can clip them on. In this situation, using
a twinset – especially in rough seas and while wearing a drysuit – is practically impossible.
Weather conditions play a huge role across all boat types. On the small ones – going out in bad weather is out of the question. But even the big boats can get tossed around pretty hard in heavy swell... That’s why you should always remember: just because you had calm weather on your last dive, doesn’t mean the same boat will offer the same comfort next time. A perfect example is our Baltic Sea – it’s so unpredictable that the conditions you set out in on the way to a wreck can completely change by the time you're heading back
To sum it all up – diving from boats opens up a whole new world in your diving career. Always remember to get a proper briefing the first time you dive from a particular vessel, as each one is different and may present its own set of hazards. When heading out to sea, seasickness can become an issue – so for those who struggle with it, it may be wise to choose a larger vessel. Remember, diving brings a lot of joy – but it also comes with its own types of risks – so always plan wisely and don’t make rash decisions. Wishing you safe diving!
FRESH WATER
THROUGH THE EYES OF ANNA PASZTA
Fairy-Tale Saxony and Its
GRANITE TRAIL
Text and photos ANNA PASZTA
THE CROWN OF SAXON QUARRIES is a paradise for diving fanatics who love mysterious, cold, and dark depths.
At least once a year, we dedicate a few days to joyful splashing around in the water-filled basins of former mines, where the extraction and processing of plutonic rock has a history spanning over a hundred years. In the 19th century, granite played a crucial role in construction, road surface reinforcement, bridge building, and as ballast for railway tracks.
In the Lusatia region, numerous quarries were established, and mining and stonemasonry became key branches of local industry. Today, many of these mines are no longer in operation, and the pits left behind have been flooded.
And this is where their latest chapter begins…
HORKA
The next stop on our route is Horka. A beautiful, bright quarry with high rocky shores crowned by mixed forest, which in October bursts into all the colors of autumn. If you catch it on a nice, sunny day, the view is absolutely breathtaking! Between the majestic granite walls, Nature the artist has placed a mirror of polished emerald, framed with a delicate lace of red, green, and golden-yellow trees. In that mirror, the sun admires itself against a backdrop of blue sky, across which herds of cloud-fluff wander slowly, white as snow. On the water’s surface, like a baroque decoration, water lilies float, wrapped in the flat plates of dark green leaves. Blooming water lilies – in late October!
I once read that this fairy-tale setting served as a filming location for a movie adaptation of the Sorbian legend about Krabat – a boy who became an apprentice to a sorcerer. And that legend lingers in my mind throughout the entire stay, weaving itself into the backdrop of our underwater adventures.
Right next to the quarry lies a large grassy clearing with convenient benches for diving gear. You can park a camper or pitch a tent here if you're planning a longer stay. The base, run by the reliable Cosima Schiffauer – whose expertise and
knowledge are always something you can count on – offers typical diving services as well as accommodations and access to a fully equipped kitchen and dining area. In the summer, the place is bustling with people, but in October, we’ve sometimes found ourselves alone, aside from the base staff.
We assemble our gear, suit up, and head down a long metal staircase to the water. The stairs don’t end at the surface. Further steps continue straight into the blue water, which reflects the sky – step by step, descending beneath the surface down to a depth of 5 meters. It feels like going down... toward the sky.
The quarry isn't very large, and you can swim around it in a single, longer dive – but we’re planning at least two immersions here.
We start with a route straight across the basin to the other side, passing through the deepest part of the quarry. The depth reaches up to 32 meters, and in autumn the visibility can be as good as 10 to 12 meters.
We descend along underwater steps and arrive at a bottom strewn with massive boulders. The slope is gentle, so we gradually sink deeper and deeper. Along the way, nestled between the rocks, we keep coming across intriguing toys. We pause
for a moment – we simply have to check whether it’s possible to play a round of volleyball 10 meters underwater with a well-weighted ball or knock down all the pins on a board using a suspended ball.
Further on, the boulders grow larger, and shades of dark green and gray begin to dominate. Yet, surprisingly, even when we reach the very bottom of the basin, we still don’t need our torches – enough light filters down to see clearly. We poke around for a bit in the emerald gloom and then head for the opposite slope. From here, we’ll begin to ascend slowly, exploring the left side of the reservoir.
Here and there, we encounter remnants of mining equipment. At around 25 meters, we come upon a well-preserved stone structure. It’s probably the remains of a bunker or a pump station building, but to me, it looks like a sorcerer’s hut. There’s no ceiling, so you can swim inside through a red-brick-framed doorway and exit through the top.
Continuing to the left, we come across the crossing pipes of the old pumping system and reach a massive vertical wall. Its smooth surface and perfect right angles create an astonishing underwater impression. In places like this, I feel like a bird –drifting slowly and peacefully through the water, marveling at
the distant views far below. Around the corner, at a depth of about 12 meters, halfway up the wall, we come across a surprising installation: a brass porthole bolted to the rock with heavy screws. When I open the cover, I see a diver on the other side, floating in mid-water, gazing back at me intently. But instead of glass, the porthole holds a mirror. You hang there in weightlessness, beside a massive granite wall, peering through a steampunk window into a parallel universe. Magical!
After a moment, the wall gives way again to a rocky, more gently sloping bottom. Here, you might spot a pike lurking among the branches of sunken trees, waiting for an unwary victim. Curious perch, ever-present, watch the divers and accompany us during our safety stop, which we do at a large rocky ledge where various trinkets, figurines, and little vases stand on a metal grate. We finish our journey at the stairs. Before surfacing, I snap a few photos of the lushly growing hornwort, chara, and water lilies.
Still underwater, standing on the staircase steps, I take off my fins and, like some odd water spirit, clamber out onto the surface with my suddenly incredibly heavy load of gear.
During our surface interval, we decide it’s time to eat something. For our picnic, we discover the most wonderful restaurant under the sun! Tucked among the trees, a small winding staircase leads up to a ledge perched high above the water. There stands a table and a few chairs, and against the wall –sheltered by a canopy of green shrubs – invites a huge round couch, perfect for lazy lounging!
Seasoned with a breathtaking view, the simplest canned stew eaten straight from the tin with a knife and washed down with water tastes like gourmet cuisine. A sausage dipped in a jar of ketchup recalls foie gras in tomato sauce, and a slice of Biedronka Gouda takes on the status of a French delicacy. The setting – picnicking on a hanging cliff – adds a few imaginary Michelin stars to our humble meal.
After a feast and rest worthy of Roman emperors, we gear up for our second dive.
Planning a route along the right-hand side of the basin is a bit more complex. The shallower we stay, the longer and more intricate the dive becomes. Here, the shoreline cuts into the land with narrow tongues of shallow inlets.
We begin just as before – crossing the reservoir straight through. It’s the shortest route to the opposite wall since the basin resembles an upside-down, flattened cone.
We reach 25 meters and, following a gentle curve along the rock ledge, navigate to the other side. There, we begin a slow ascent and turn right. We pass shelves of rock jutting from vertical walls. In the shallow recesses of the stone hide whimsical figurines. On one shelf sits the Czech Krtek (Little Mole), on another dwells a pair of gnomes.
The terrain is quite varied. We dive into a landslide of massive boulders overgrown with low trees. This is the first and
longest of four inlets. Just beyond it, a tall rocky ridge blocks our way, sheltering the next branch. There's an abundance of plants and tiny fish, and between the stones we spot brilliantly blue noble crayfish. A true natural aquarium, lit by dappled sunlight playing on the gently rippling surface above.
Another rock wall, and another picturesque inlet – an ideal set for underwater photography. At its edge, at a depth of 10 meters, three sharks emerge from the blue. This attraction reminds me more of the aesthetics of 1980s American horror-themed amusement parks. Life-sized figures suspended in the water by steel cables, their jaws – painted with slowly peeling white and red paint – bared in a snarl at passing divers. I’m less than thrilled, but my companions are having a great time, posing with their heads inside the rows of jagged teeth.
We pass one more wall and, in the smallest of the inlets, we make our safety stop. Then we head for the stairs, bringing our underwater visit in Horka to a close.
A Love Story of a Beautiful Nymph and an Elf
Lake MAMRY, Masuria
WHO HASN'T HEARD OF LAKE MAMRY IN MASURIA?
THIS ENCHANTING BODY OF WATER HAS ATTRACTED WATER SPORTS
ENTHUSIASTS FOR DECADES. ABOVE ALL, WE MUST REMEMBER THAT MAMRY LIES ALONG THE TRAIL OF THE GREAT MASURIAN LAKES, WHICH HAS GREAT SIGNIFICANCE FOR DIVING.
In this case, the key word is DIVE SAFETY, which is why I can’t ignore this topic in this article. But let’s start with something more pleasant.
According to local myths, the name 'Mamry' comes from a nymph named Mamra. Not only was she graceful and talented, but she also possessed the ability to transform into different shapes and objects. Her admirer was an elf named Święcajt. However, as love stories often go, their relationship was considered a misalliance at the time, and Mamra’s parents did not approve of Święcajt. Yet the lovers ignored their objections and continued to meet in secret. When the parents found out, they hired four guardians to separate the couple. The guardians were named Dargin, Dobsk, Kirsajt, and Kisajn. Fearing they would be torn apart, Mamra decided to transform herself and her beloved into lakes. Her spell, however, was so powerful that it affected the guardians as well – and to this day, together with the lovers, they form the Mamry Lakes complex.
Now, a few words about the lake itself. It lies in the Węgorzewo county, within the Węgorzewo municipal-
ity. This is a large lake, 7.6 km long and 5.2 km wide. Its maximum depth is 43.8 meters, though the average depth doesn’t exceed 10 meters. From Lake Kirsajty, you can reach Lake Dargin, or via the Kalska Gate, sail into Lake Święcajty. The deepest part of Lake Mamry is in the northwest – this is the area of greatest interest to divers. From Mamry, through the Węgorapa River and the Węgorzewo Canal, you can reach the town of Węgorzewo. The unfinished Masurian Canal also starts at the lake. Mamry is not a single lake, but rather part of a larger lake complex of the same name – hence the legend. Long ago, these were separate bodies of water connected by narrow straits, but over time, the water level rose due to the northern shoreline uplifting. In the past 500 years, water levels have risen by about 2 meters, flooding coastal meadows and old connections between lakes.
Mamry is home to many islands, most of which are protected nature reserves and cannot be accessed. The largest of these is Upałty Island, where visitors are allowed on land, though they must stick to marked paths, as protected birds nest there.
Text and photos JACEK KUBIAK
It’s also worth noting that on the lake’s shore lies a forest settlement called Mamerki – a complex of well-preserved German bunkers from WWII. From 1940 to 1944, it served as the headquarters of the German Land Forces.
Diving in Lake Mamry. The largest intact shipwreck in Masuria is located in Mamry – the ARABELLA. It rests in the northern part of the lake at a depth of 33 meters. Arabella was originally a tugboat that, after its service ended, was being converted into a sailing yacht. However, despite all efforts to revive it and fight off rust, it was ultimately handed over to divers from Giżycko. The gift was well utilized. The 14-meter-long, 3.2-meter-wide vessel was stripped of equipment and sunk in 1993 as a training platform for scuba divers. The plan was for it to rest at 20 meters – the maximum training depth for basic diving certifications like P1 or OWD. However, due to a steep underwater slope, it slipped down to 33 meters. Today, the wreck rests on its keel, has become a home for eels, and serves as a challenge for divers pursuing P2 or DEEP certifications.
A very popular attraction for both beginner and experienced divers is a site known as the "toys" – an underwater obstacle course created in the 1990s for training purposes. It’s located near the village of Trygort, specifically near the Zwierzyniecki Róg campsite in the northern part of Lake Mamry. It’s an ideal place for practicing rope-guided dives, featuring several sunken boats, a bell you can enter and talk in without a regulator, tunnels made of tires, and even a giant mirror perfect for a diving selfie. The site is accessible by boat and marked by two orange buoys for less experienced divers. Alternatively, you can reach it by fins from the Zwierzyniecki Róg campsite – just pass the public slip and swim around 500 meters toward the buoys.
For those who prefer natural sites over artificial attractions, I recommend the campsite near Mamerki, across the lake near the Masurian Canal. A short swim from the shore takes you to depths of 25 meters, often surrounded by schools of perch.
If you’re diving solo or with a buddy but lack experience in lake diving along busy boat routes, avoid areas with
heavy boat traffic. Choose more remote, quiet coves, and go in the early morning or late evening. Don’t let a buoy or marker give you a false sense of safety. Ironically – and I say this from experience – flying a dive flag buoy often attracts more danger, as many people don’t know what it means and approach out of curiosity to “fish it out”. I have logged over 800 dives on the Great Masurian Lakes trail, and every summer season, whenever I mark my location, I end up dealing with curious tourists. Sound travels fast in water, and based on the volume, we can often tell whether a boat is approaching or moving away. Most boaters have no idea that divers might be underwater – especially since many boats are driven without a license. These untrained boaters barely manage themselves on a vessel that can weigh several tons, let alone read the signs or recognize a diver’s buoy. I speak from experience: if such boaters can mow down large metal navigation buoys anchored with chains, they won’t hesitate to go over ours. Once, not far from Zwierzyniecki Róg, I had three boats come up to my buoy during a single dive – I had to wrestle with it to avoid losing it entirely. The safest option is to have a surface support team.
There are divers who enjoy diving in navigation routes, and others who prefer base diving. Personally, I love diving along the Masurian trail, because every dive is different – you never know what you will find. An old anchor, a fishing rod, boat parts, or a rare pre-war beer bottle – things you will never encounter at a diving base.
Lake Mamry has it all: underwater meadows, depth, wildlife, guideline routes, and plenty of things that accidentally fall from boats – phones, clothes, pots, sunglasses, and more. As for fish, you will find every lake species here.
For me personally, Lake Mamry is the benchmark for visibility in Masurian Lakes. Even in bad weather, strong wind, or algae bloom – when the visibility is poor everywhere else – Mamry usually offers the best conditions.
P.S. In the summer season, the Lunar Masurian Diving Club organizes boat trips to both the Arabella wreck and the nearby Toys.
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Emocje, zabawa i nagrody
Posiłek
UNDERWATER FRAMES
Summary
Text and photos EDITORIAL TEAM
You could already read about Lake Niedackie on the pages of Perfect Diver – we have visited Twardy Dół several times to dive in this fantastic lake. This time our stay was accompanied by a meeting of underwater photographers - the UNDERWATER FRAMES event.
During this diving and photography weekend, in which both professionals and amateurs took part, workshops, lectures, integration and a competition were planned. We met most of the people on Friday – for some people, the Zblewo municipality in Kociewie is quite a distant destination, but we found out that divers are not looking for excuses, but opportunities ;) So after a shorter or longer journey, a large group of people was already preparing their equipment for the morning dive... or has already dived checking the conditions in the lake ;)... And we, looking with fear at the cloudy sky and the rising wind, wondered – will everything go smoothly?
After breakfast, all participants took part in the official opening of the meeting. Wojciech Pruski – co-organizer of the event and owner of the Good Dive diving base discussed the most important logistical issues, the topography of the lake and the rules of the competition. We also received information about minor changes in the event plan, which had to be made due to the unstable weather. Fortunately, the weather window allowed for long and beautiful dives, during which each participant had the opportunity to take this most beautiful photo. What is important – the organizers emphasized the fact that the jury will take into account the frame, not the quality of the photographic equipment – to the delight of owners of amateur cameras / phones / camcorders who are just starting their adventure with photography. Equal chances increased the confidence of the participants.
Listening to the numerous conversations between dives, I was surprised by the totally positive atmosphere without a hint of competition. Exchanging experiences, hints related to the equipment, giving tips – this is probably what most of the participants hoped for the most.
It's great to look at such integration of the community and if this was the main goal of the organization of Underwater Frames, then – Mission Complete!
Due to the weather, the bonfire planned for the evening turned into a meeting in the Restaurant in the Twardy Dół resort, during which, after deliberations and jury voting, the results of the competition were announced. It is worth noting that the photos were sent to the jury anonymously – the participants gave themselves pseudonyms and in this form they were sent to the collective mailbox. Each of us waited in suspense for the presentation of the photographs. The names of the winners and the sponsors of the prizes will be listed below. By the decision of the organizers, the person winning the first place had the right to choose a prize from among the available ones, the person who won the second place chose the prize from the others, and so on. An interesting solution that met with great approval.
When the greatest emotions subsided, we gathered in the conference room to listen to Michał Bazała's presentation on
his unobvious path to underwater photography. Such an end of the day with a bit of reflection allowed for a night of relaxation, because there were also activities planned for Sundays. The last day of this photo-week was started by Marcin Trzciński – co-organizer of this event – with his lecture on servicing equipment dedicated to underwater photography. Most people were amazed to see the service photos presented at the lecture showing what damage in these inexpensive apparatus can be caused by particularly salt water and what are the risks of underestimating regular service and care. After a short examination of conscience and in some cases with their hearts on their shoulders, the photographers rushed back to the water to enjoy this charming lake a little more, and then came the time of parting, nostalgia and hope that this was not the last edition of the meeting of underwater photographers.
AWARD SPONSORS
Garmin Polska
ECN Systemy Nurkowe
Foto Podwodna
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Perfect Diver
I place Marta URBANIAK
III place Alina GÓRNA-GORODECKA
V place Tomasz FURMAŃCZAK
II place Brunon WALIGÓRA
IV place Mirosław NIEDŹWIECKI
MERMAIDING
The fairytale world of mermaids
Text and photos MICHAŁ MUCIEK
underwater
Imagine a world where every movement is a dance and every breath is a step towards freedom. Where the laws of gravity cease to apply, and the only limit is the capacity of the lungs and the power of dreaming. This is what mermaiding is like – a phenomenon that takes us from a child's fantasy to reality like from a fairy tale.
Mermaiding, or swimming in a mermaid's tail, is an extraordinary discipline balancing between sport, art and personal discovery. It is more than just physical activity – it is an experience that combines freediving, dance, theater, elements of performance and cosplay. Above all, however, it is a state of mind – a return to the joy of being yourself, without masks and expectations.
It is gaining more and more popularity around the world. Professional schools in Asia (China, the Philippines), spectac-
ular shows in the United States or shows in water parks in Europe attract thousands of viewers. Poland is also joining this trend – mermaids, both recreational and professional, form a strongly integrated community. They meet at rallies and competitions, participate in photo sessions, organize workshops and courses.
As an underwater photographer, I have the privilege of not only documenting this world, but also participating in it. From the perspective of the lens, I observe how real magic is born.
Polish mermaid scene – more than a community
At first glance, it may seem that this is a niche phenomenon, a curiosity or a temporary trend. However, it is enough to spend one day at the mermaid rally to understand: it is movement. Deep, beautiful, diverse.
The Academy of the Mermaids – the heart of the underwater revolution
It all started with the dream of Magdalena Gębicka – a diving instructor, mermaiding instructor and artist, who decided to create a space for those who really want to become mermaids. This is how the Mermaid Academy was established – the first professional mermaid school in Poland.
In her courses, participants learn not only technique and safety, but also how to work with the body, stage movement and – crucially – breathing. Because mermaiding teaches that less is more. One conscious breath may be enough to plunge deep and disappear from this world for a moment.
Thanks to the Academy, other schools and initiatives were created, such as Sealife Academy, Mermaid Club Meluzyna, Muszelka Mermaid Club or Sea Stars – SSI Mermaid School. These are not only courses, but communities – spaces of mutual support and development.
Rallies and events – mermaid whirl
Deepspot – the deepest pool in Europe (45.5 m) – is a mecca for scuba divers, freedivers and mermaids. In 2024, the first nationwide mermaid competition was held there, followed by the 8th Mermaid and Triton Rally took place. Although mermaid training takes place to a safe depth of 5 meters, the emotions reached rock bottom.
This competition is not about winning, but about a story. A synchronised show resembles a musical, a solo performance – a ballet. This is where the magic counts. That moment when you dive under the water and only you, your body and the echo of your own heart remain.
In March 2025, the first two-day National Mermaid Rally took place at the Astoria swimming pool in Bydgoszcz, organized by Alicja Graba and Sealife Academy. Two days full of colors,
glitter and emotions. Workshops, candlelit talks, bachata show and a water show broadcast by TVP3 channel. Chaos? A little bit. Magic? Entirely.
On the shore, one mermaid lost her crown, another did not remember where she had left her tail. But no one laughed –everyone helped. Because in this community, the most important things are the sense of union, acceptance and the strength that comes from being yourself. Even if "being yourself" means wearing a tail and having hair full of shells.
Mermaid Olympics – Ocean Dream Scene
In Wolfsburg, Germany, in the BadeLand Aquapark, Merlympics – the unique Mermaid Games – take place every year. Competition? Definitely. But this is only one of the elements of this unusual puzzle. Merlympics is above all a celebration of community, diversity and expression – an event in which the tails shine not only with glitter, but above all with passion, determination and authentic emotions.
The looks are breathtaking, from classic mermaid tails to mythology-inspired creations to grandiose cosplay. The choreographies are refined to the smallest detail – full of expression, a sense of rhythm, grace and deep symbolism. Spectacular shows are intertwined with moments of emotion, smiles and sports tension.
In this year's edition of Merlympics, which took place in May 2025, the Poland Mermaid Team presented itself absolutely
sensationally. The girls showed not only a high artistic and technical level, but also a huge heart and community spirit, which distinguishes the Polish mermaiding scene. Their performances were full of emotions and positive energy – they received a lot of praise and sympathy from the spectators and other teams.
Alicja Graba was particularly appreciated – she won the title of Best Photo for a unique frame captured during the competition. Her presence and personality attracted attention not only underwater, but also beyond it.
I had the honor to participate in Merlympics 2025 as a photographer and member of the Poland Mermaid Team. Not with his tail in the water, but with a camera in his hand. This experience was more than just documenting the competition – it was an attempt to capture what is most precious: emotions. Those small moments between the start and the finish – nerves, laughter, looks full of concentration and joy.
Mermaiding in this version shows its most beautiful face –beyond divisions, beyond borders. Age, fin size or country of origin do not matter. What counts is the heart, the personality and that elusive "something" that makes the water a stage and every movement a story.
It's a stage where every tail shines. But the real brilliance comes from people – mermaids and mermaids who bravely show the world who they really are.
Children's Day at Deepspot – rally, emotions and education
On June 1, 2025, the Mermaid Academy organized a special rally
on the occasion of Children's Day, which took place at Deepspot. Although the event was part of the celebration of the children's holiday, the rally itself was fully professional. Mermaids and mermaids from all over Polish met to train, perform and share their passion – and the youngest viewers could admire their underwater performances from the unique perspective of the observation tunnel.
The rally was not infantile – on the contrary, it resembled a miniature mermaiding academy with elements of education, training and a fairy-tale setting. For the children, it was an unforgettable adventure, and for the participants – an opportunity to improve their skills in the spirit of community and magic.
Not only did I document this event with photographs, but I also gave a lecture entitled "How many bad photos do you have to take to make one good one?”. It was not a typical technical lecture, but a personal story about the chaos of photo shoots, failed frames, plankton in the hair and that one frame for which it is worth diving again. About mistakes that teach more than instructions. And about the photos that stay in the memory because they have the truth in them.
The most important message was simple: It's not the tail that makes you a mermaid. You are the mermaid. Your personality, how you feel in the water, how you tell a story with your body, your look, your movement.
You don't have to be perfect. It is enough that you are aware – of your body, your boundaries, your strengths, your breath. Water does not tolerate tension and pretense. And the best photos are not those from the catalog, but those that have a soul.
Underwater Photography – A Record of Dreams
As a photographer, I have the privilege of looking at this world through a viewfinder. But it's not the camera that takes pictures – it's the mermaids. They tell stories with movement, look, gesture.
Underwater photography is my life. Photographing mermaids, however, is a separate category – requiring equipment, skills, but also intuition, trust and a sense of the rhythm of breathing.
My set is Canon R6 + Marelux housing and DivePro Vision Pro+ lighting (15000 lm).
A film set? In the quarry, a beam of light fell like a theatrical spotlight. The shot looked like a frame from fantasy. Magic? No – patience and trust. Another time, in the pool, the model got tangled in the fabric of the decoration. Because mermaids don't wait for ideal conditions – they create them. From mistake, from chaos, from glitter. "Take a picture of me breathing light, catching the sun!" – and this is how my favorite frames are created.
Mermaiding as therapy
Mermaiding is not only delights. It also cures.
Physically – strengthens deep muscles, improves flexibility, teaches breath control.
Mentally – frees. There are no phone calls, e-mails, noise underwater. There is silence. It's just you and the water.
It is a space where many people find themselves again – they overcome fears, build self-confidence, return to the joy of being.
Voices from the Deep
"It's more than just swimming – it's an experience that connects body, breath, movement and soul."
"When you dive into the water with your tail, everything disappears – stress, tension, the outside world. It's just you and the movement."
What's next for mermaiding in Poland?
Mermaiding is not a trend. It's a current. It is no longer a curiosity – it becomes a space of creativity, community and personal strength.
For some – a way of life. For others – a form of escape. For everyone – a place where you can learn to breathe again.
The number of mermaids, tritons, instructors and schools is growing every year. There are sponsors, media interest, professionalization of training. Perspective? European competitions, integration with freediving and artistic photography, a greater variety of forms – from classics to dark fantasy and cosplay.
And me? I still have glitter in my diving mask. And I hope it will stay that way.
Author: Michał Muciek – Underwater photographer, diver, rescuer, tail ambassador and collector of glitter in diving masks.
Diving Accident ANALYSIS
Imagine that you are the one involved in the described accident. Instead of looking for someone to blame, analyze what led to the situation and what could have been done differently to prevent it. Personally, I always put myself in the shoes of the injured diver – this helps me look at the situation without emotion and focus on how to genuinely improve the safety of my dives.
Date: Spring 2025
Location: One of the lakes in Western Poland
Type of dive: Shallow recreational dive, no deeper than 5 meters, non-decompression. First dive after the winter break.
Diver profiles:
Diver 1 – Middle-aged man, experienced in similar conditions, certification level: OWD, 90 logged dives, limited leg mobility.
Diver 2 – 16-year-old male, experienced in similar conditions, certification level: OWD, 88 logged dives.
Equipment: Single-tank setup on back, regulator with octopus, BCD, fins, mask. 5 mm wetsuit.
Dive Description
A larger group of divers from one club participated in the dive. A proper briefing was conducted.
Depth: up to 5 m
Time: up to 45 minutes
Visibility: approx. 2 meters
Water temperature: 16°C
Conditions: No current or waves
Entry: From shore, in buddy pairs
Gas used: Air
Dive direction: Along the reed line, to the right
Divers performed a buddy check and entered the water from shore. They started the dive and reached a depth of 4 meters (about 50 m from the dock). Diver 1 kept veering off course instead of swimming straight, which caused him to drift away from the shoreline. Diver 2 tapped him and signaled to ascend. This was at minute 10 of the dive. Diver 1 was overweighted, carrying 12 kg. He inflated his BCD and ascended with Diver 2. Diver 1 ascended rapidly, most likely over-inflating his BCD. As a result, he burst out above the water's surface and immediately removed his regulator. At that moment, a wave hit him in the face – just as he tried to take a breath. Instead of air, he inhaled water, choked, lost consciousness, and stopped moving. Without the regulator in his mouth, he sank back down to a depth of about 4 meters.
Text & photos WOJCIECH ZGOŁA
Diver 2, seeing what happened, shouted "help!" and immediately dove down to assist Diver 1.
Other divers observed the incident from the dock. At that same moment, one of the group’s instructors (let’s call him K1) surfaced near the dock. He was informed of a probable diving accident and immediately swam toward the reported location using compass direction. Meanwhile, another instructor (K2) called emergency services (112), and both an ambulance and an air rescue helicopter (LPR) were dispatched.
Diver 2 descended to 4 m, reached the unconscious Diver 1, freed him from one weight pocket (he was lying on the other), and immediately began the ascent procedure. As Divers 1 and 2 surfaced, instructor K1 reached them and took over the unconscious Diver 1, beginning resuscitation immediately.
At the same time, instructor K2 coordinated communication with emergency responders, sending people to key points (intersections, forest paths, gate entrance) to guide rescue units as quickly as possible to the scene.
As K1 and Diver 1 approached the dock, two other divers jumped into the water and helped lift the injured diver out, removing his equipment on the way. CPR was initiated. After six cycles of 30 chest compressions, the injured diver regained consciousness. K2 asked, “Can you hear me? Can you hear me?” – and heard the reply, “Yes, I can.” He breathed a sigh of relief: “I think we’ve got him!”
At that moment, water rescue (WOPR) arrived and took over Diver 1. Shortly afterward, the fire department and medical services also arrived, and a paramedic took charge of the diver. He was stabilized, and the LPR helicopter with a doctor soon arrived to take over. The man was transported to the hospital for observation, where all necessary tests and scans were performed. A small amount of water was found in his right lung.
After approximately 10 hours of observation, the diver was discharged and taken home.
Good to Know!
When water contacts the larynx or trachea (e.g., through choking), it triggers a sudden, involuntary spasm of the laryngeal muscles – especially the vocal cords – closing the airway (glottis). This temporarily blocks airflow and water, acting as a defense mechanism to prevent the lungs from flooding. This spasm can last from a few seconds up to about 2 minutes, depending on the individual’s physiology and oxygen levels. As hypoxia progresses, the muscles relax, the glottis opens, and if the person is still underwater, water floods the lungs.
Final Thoughts
In this case, the quick rescue response – retrieval from the water and immediate CPR – was critical. Diver 2 kept a cool head, didn’t panic, called for help, and immediately dove down to rescue Diver 1. He made it in time, before the spasm subsided and water could flood the lungs. The rest of the rescue was executed swiftly and efficiently, with the result: a life saved.
Let’s stay calm and keep a clear head. Don’t ascend too fast, and most importantly – do not immediately remove your regulator upon surfacing. First, stabilize yourself, ensure your BCD keeps you safely at the surface without effort. If you feel yourself sinking, drop your weights. Dive safely.
In open waters, especially with waves in the sea or ocean, remember to use a snorkel, a surface marker buoy, and – above all – common sense.
Keeping a cool head and taking action quickly can save a life – as this case clearly shows.
DIVE BOOTS
A practical guide
A key piece of dive gear that directly affects your propulsion technique: DIVE BOOTS.
The way your boots fit your feet – and then how that combination fits into your fin’s foot pocket – impacts more than just thermal comfort. It directly influences your efficiency of movement both underwater and on the surface.
Read through this article to understand why the following categories may appear significant but are only superficially so:
´ boots for wetsuits
´ boots for drysuits
How to choose the ideal boot for a wetsuit?
Zippered or zipperless? Thick sole or something that feels like a neoprene sock?
Here’s how to approach your boot selection:
1. Choose the fins you plan to dive with.
2. Take them with you to a dive shop with a wide range of boot models.
3. Pick the boot that fits best into the fin’s foot pocket.
ONE OF THE MOST COMMON DIVE GEAR SETUP MISTAKES IS CHOOSING FINS AFTER SELECTING BOOTS.
This applies to both wetsuit and drysuit divers. Your fins are far more critical than boot style – they influence gas consumption, control during underwater photography, and the effectiveness of rescue maneuvers.
Text WOJCIECH A. FILIP
Photo Tecline Academy
Open-heel fins with boot pockets typically use a strap or spring strap to keep your foot secured forward in the pocket. Standard straps can be adjusted quickly. Spring straps can be swapped out for shorter or longer ones, depending on preference. A third option is a thick, low-stretch bungee cord, where tension and length can be easily adjusted with a knot.
The strap, spring, or bungee cord plays a significant role in lateral fit – reducing side-to-side movements in the fin pocket. This directly affects propulsion technique. A diver learning finning techniques may feel like they’re doing a proper frog kick or back kick – but in reality, they’re just moving the boot inside the fin and hardly going anywhere.
A thick sole can slightly stretch out the foot pocket, improving fit – but if you have a high instep, it may cause unwanted pressure. On the other hand, boots with thin soles and lightweight neoprene tend to conform better to the foot’s shape, reducing discomfort – especially for divers with wide feet.
Zippered or not? If you have wide feet and a high instep, go with zippered boots. They’re simply easier to put on and take off.
I have narrow, small feet. I also know that the most precise fin for me is a classic Jet model. Since I dive in a wetsuit, I opted for positively buoyant fins (like LightJets) to avoid my legs being pulled downward. I swapped the spring strap for a bungee, but the boot pocket was still a bit loose.
If you can’t eliminate that slack with a slightly larger boot model, try this: wear a thick merino wool sock directly on your foot. It not only improves the fit, but also adds excellent thermal protection.
Tips for wetsuit divers: Tried everything, but the foot pocket is still too roomy? Try this lesser-known but highly effective combo: neoprene socks + rockboots (typically used with drysuits). You’ll get a snug fit in your fins and great walking comfort on any terrain.
Not a fan of rockboots? Or they clash with your wetsuit’s color? Here’s a no-joke, totally functional alternative: neoprene socks + canvas sneakers in a color of your choice. Yes, seriously. It’s a practical solution – and it lets you match your mood or your gear. Total freedom, zero compromise!
How to choose boots for a drysuit?
Most reputable drysuit manufacturers offer several boot options. The selection principles are nearly identical to wetsuit diving:
1. Choose your fins first.
2. Bring them to your drysuit fitter or manufacturer.
3. Select a boot that best fills the fin pocket.
Important note for drysuit divers:
The greatest flexibility comes with a drysuit that ends in neoprene socks. You can pair them with rockboots, tactical boots, wetsuit boots, or yes – even sneakers.
From experience:
If you have wide feet and a high instep – go for looser neoprene socks and look for outer boots that don’t compress your foot. Cold, numb feet during long deco hangs are something you’ll never forget.
To sum it up:
Always start with your fin selection – they determine your effectiveness and comfort in the water. Then match your boots to your fins. Do it the other way around, and you might end up with boots in your favorite color, but hinder your movement techniques – and in case of emergency, compromise your safety and that of the person you’re helping.
WAF
Drop by the Tecline Academy – bring your fins and check which size rockboots fit you best. And if you dive wet – you now know it’s worth testing this too
