Aqua Lung Recalls Scuba Regulators and Adapters Due to Drowning Hazard

In case you missed the news, a couple of months ago the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Aqua Lung announced a voluntary recall of the Titan DIN 1st Stage Scuba Regulators and Titan/Conshelf DIN Scuba Adaptors, you should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is estimated that the company sold 6,000 units approximately.



Over-tightening of the DIN retainer by a technician during installation can result in the retainer breaking under pressure, a rapid escape of air from the scuba cylinder, and the regulator detaching from the scuba cylinder. This poses a drowning hazard to divers.

Aqualung has received one report of a DIN retainer breaking under pressure. No injuries have been reported.

The recalled regulators have a brass DIN retainer manufactured prior to June 2006. The recalled Aqua Lung Titan Din 1st Stage regulators have serial numbers lower than 6062501 stamped on the side of the regulator’s body. Recalled Titan/Conshelf DIN adaptors are marked “300 BAR MAX” on the side of the part. DIN adaptors marked “300 BAR MAXI” are not included in this recall.



The products were sold at authorized Aqua Lung dealers nationwide from January 1997 through September 2008 for about $300 to $450 for the scuba regulators or $70 for DIN adaptors sold separately. The products were manufactured in France.

All divers should immediately stop using the recalled diving regulators and DIN adaptors and return them to any authorized Aqua Lung dealer for a free replacement DIN retainer.

For additional information, contact Aqua Lung toll-free at (877) 253-3483 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday,

What you need to know about Altitude-Induced Decompression Sickness

Decompression sickness (DCS) describes a condition characterized by a variety of symptoms resulting from exposure to low barometric pressures that cause inert gases (mainly nitrogen), normally dissolved in body fluids and tissues, to come out of physical solution and form bubbles. DCS can occur during exposure to altitude (altitude DCS) or during ascent from depth (mining or diving). The first documented cases of DCS (Caisson Disease) were reported in 1841 by a mining engineer who observed the occurrence of pain and muscle cramps among coal miners exposed to air-pressurized mine shafts designed to keep water out. The first description of a case resulting from diving activities while wearing a pressurized hard hat was reported in 1869.

Altitude-Induced Decompression Sickness Altitude DCS became a commonly observed problem associated with high-altitude balloon and aircraft flights in the 1930s. In present-day aviation, technology allows civilian aircraft (commercial and private) to fly higher and faster than ever before. Though modern aircraft are safer and more reliable, occupants are still subject to the stresses of high altitude flight—and the unique problems that go with these lofty heights. A century and one-half after the first DCS case was described, our understanding of DCS has improved, and a body of knowledge has accumulated; however, this problem is far from being solved. Altitude DCS still represents a risk to the occupants of modern aircraft.

Tiny Bubbles According to Henry’s Law, when the pressure of a gas over a liquid is decreased, the amount of gas dissolved in that liquid will also decrease. One of the best practical demonstrations of this law is offered by opening a soft drink. When the cap is removed from the bottle, gas is heard escaping, and bubbles can be seen forming in the soda. This is carbon dioxide gas coming out of solution as a result of sudden exposure to lower barometric pressure. Similarly, nitrogen is an inert gas normally stored throughout the human body (tissues and fluids) in physical solution. When the body is exposed to decreased barometric pressures (as in flying an unpressurized aircraft to altitude, or during a rapid decompression), the nitrogen dissolved in the body comes out of solution. If the nitrogen is forced to leave the solution too rapidly, bubbles form in different areas of the body, causing a variety of signs and symptoms. The most common symptom is joint pain, which is known as “the bends.”

Trouble Sites Although bubbles can form anywhere in the body, the most frequently targeted anatomic locations are the shoulders, elbows, knees, and ankles.
There are different DCS types with their corresponding bubble formation sites and their most common symptoms. “The bends’’ (joint pain) account for about 60 to 70% of all altitude DCS cases, with the shoulder being the most common site. Neurologic manifestations are present in about 10 to 15% of all DCS cases, with headache and visual disturbances being the most common symptoms. “The chokes” are very infrequent and occur in less than 2% of all DCS cases. Skin manifestations are present in about 10 to 15% of all DCS cases.

Medical Treatment Mild cases of “the bends” and skin bends (excluding mottled or marbled skin appearance) may disappear during descent from high altitude, but still require medical evaluation. If the signs and symptoms persist during descent or reappear at ground level, it is necessary to provide hyperbaric oxygen treatment immediately (100% oxygen delivered in a high-pressure chamber). Neurological DCS, “the chokes,” and skin bends with mottled or marbled skin lesions should always be treated with hyperbaric oxygenation. These conditions are very serious and potentially fatal if untreated.

Facts About Breathing 100% Oxygen One of the most significant breakthroughs in altitude DCS research was the discovery that breathing 100% oxygen before exposure to a low barometric pressure (oxygen prebreathing), decreases the risk of developing altitude DCS. Oxygen prebreathing promotes the elimination (washout) of nitrogen from body tissues. Prebreathing 100% oxygen for 30 minutes prior to initiating ascent to altitude reduces the risk of altitude DCS for short exposures (10-30 min. only) to altitudes between 18,000 and 43,000 ft. However, oxygen prebreathing has to be continued, without interruption, with inflight 100% oxygen breathing to provide effective protection against altitude DCS. Furthermore, it is very important to understand that breathing 100% oxygen only during flight (ascent, enroute, descent) does not decrease the risk of altitude DCS and should not be used in lieu of oxygen prebreathing.
Although 100% oxygen prebreathing is an effective method to provide individual protection against altitude DCS, it is not a logistically simple or an inexpensive approach for the protection of civil aviation flyers (commercial or private). Therefore, at the present time, it is only used by military flight crews and astronauts for their protection during high altitude and space operations.

Predisposing Factors

Altitude There is no specific altitude that can be considered an absolute altitude exposure threshold, below which it can be assured that no one will develop altitude DCS. However, there is very little evidence of altitude DCS occurring among healthy individuals at altitudes below 18,000 ft. who have not been SCUBA (Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) diving. Individual exposures to altitudes between 18,000 ft. and 25,000 ft. have shown a low occurrence of altitude DCS. Most cases of altitude DCS occur among individuals exposed to altitudes of 25,000 ft. or higher. A US Air Force study of altitude DCS cases reported that only 13% occurred below 25,000 ft. The higher the altitude of exposure, the greater the risk of developing altitude DCS. It is important to clarify that although exposures to incremental altitudes above 18,000 ft. show an incremental risk of altitude DCS, they do not show a direct relationship with the severity of the various types of DCS.

Repetitive Exposures Repetitive exposures to altitudes above 18,000 ft. within a short period of time (a few hours) also increase the risk of developing altitude DCS.

Rate of Ascent The faster the rate of ascent to altitude, the greater the risk of developing altitude DCS. An individual exposed to a rapid decompression (high rate of ascent) above 18,000 ft. has a greater risk of altitude DCS than being exposed to the same altitude but at a lower rate of ascent.

Time at Altitude The longer the duration of the exposure to altitudes of 18,000 ft. and above, the greater the risk of altitude DCS.

Age There are some reports indicating a higher risk of altitude DCS with increasing age.

Previous Injury There is some indication that recent joint or limb injuries may predispose individuals to developing “the bends.”

Ambient Temperature There is some evidence suggesting that individual exposure to very cold ambient temperatures may increase the risk of altitude DCS.

Body Type Typically, a person who has a high body fat content is at greater risk of altitude DCS. Due to poor blood supply, nitrogen is stored in greater amounts in fat tissues. Although fat represents only 15% of an adult normal body, it stores over half of the total amount of nitrogen (about 1 liter) normally dissolved in the body.

Exercise When a person is physically active while flying at altitudes above 18,000 ft., there is greater risk of altitude DCS.

Alcohol Consumption The after-effects of alcohol consumption increase the susceptibility to DCS.

Scuba Diving Before Flying SCUBA diving requires breathing air under high pressure. Under these conditions, there is a significant increase in the amount of nitrogen dissolved in the body (body nitrogen saturation). The deeper the SCUBA dive, the greater the rate of body nitrogen saturation. Furthermore, SCUBA diving in high elevations (mountain lakes), at any given depth, results in greater body nitrogen saturation when compared to SCUBA diving at sea level at the same depth. Following SCUBA diving, if not enough time is allowed to eliminate the excess nitrogen stored in the body, altitude DCS can occur during exposure to altitudes as low as 5,000 ft. or less.

What to do when altitude DCS occurs
• Put on your oxygen mask immediately and switch the regulator to 100% oxygen.
• Begin an emergency descent and land as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms disappear during descent, you should still land and seek medical evaluation while continuing to breathe oxygen.
• If one of your symptoms is joint pain, keep the affected area still; do not try to work pain out by moving the joint around.
• Upon landing seek medical assistance from a hyperbaric medicine specialist. Be aware that a physician not specialized in scuba diving, aviation hyperbaric or hypobaric medicine may not be familiar with this type of medical problem. Therefore, be your own advocate.
• Definitive medical treatment may involve the use of a hyperbaric chamber operated by specially trained personnel.
• Delayed signs and symptoms of altitude DCS can occur after return to ground level whether or not they were present during flight.

Things to remember
• Altitude DCS is a risk every time you fly in an unpressurized aircraft above 18,000 feet (or at lower altitude if you SCUBA dive prior to the flight).
• Be familiar with the signs and symptoms of altitude DCS and monitor all aircraft occupants, including yourself, any time you fly an unpressurized aircraft above 18,000 ft.
• Avoid unnecessary strenuous physical activity prior to flying an unpressurized aircraft above 18,000 ft. and for 24 hours after the flight.
• Even if you are flying a pressurized aircraft, altitude DCS can occur as a result of sudden loss of cabin pressure (in flight rapid decompression).
• Following exposure to an in flight rapid decompressions do not fly for at least 24 hours. In the meantime, remain vigilant for the possible onset of delayed symptoms or signs of altitude DCS. If you present delayed symptoms or signs of altitude DCS, seek medical attention immediately.
• Keep in mind that breathing 100% oxygen during flight (ascent, enroute, descent) without oxygen prebreathing prior to take off does not prevent the occurrence of altitude DCS.
• Do not ignore any symptoms or signs that go away during the descent. In fact, this could confirm that you are actually suffering altitude DCS. You should be medically evaluated as soon as possible.
• If there is any indication that you may have experienced altitude DCS, do not fly again until you are cleared to do so by a doctor or a hyperbaric medicine specialist.
• Allow at least 24 hours to elapse between SCUBA diving and flying.
• Be prepared for a future emergency by familiarizing yourself with the availability of hyperbaric chambers in your area of operations. However, keep in mind that not all of the available hyperbaric treatment facilities have personnel qualified to handle altitude DCS emergencies. To obtain information on the locations of hyperbaric treatment facilities capable of handling altitude DCS emergencies, call the Diver’s Alert Network.

Scuba Diving – Are those “special” Scuba Diving masks a waste of money?

I was doing some research to find out what is new on the market of scuba diving masks and I found some interesting offerings:

HydroOptix LLC a company based in Culver City, California developed an innovative product line, the HydroOptix Diving Masks. According to their web site their masks offer panoramic views allowing the scuba diver 350% more “visual space” than using conventional flat scuba diving masks. Their lenses technology provides true distance, size and shape under the water. As you may be aware when using traditional flat scuba diving masks underwater you will see things closer and larger.

Ocean Reef Masks manufactured by Ocean Reef Inc., headquartered in Genova, Italy. These masks, in my opinion, are the best products for serious scuba divers right now. The best example that shows all the technology developed by Ocean Reef in one single product is the Neptune Space Raptor. This is a nitrox compatible scuba diving mask that can also be used with conventional air. This model comes with an integrated regulator and offers an excellent visual field. According to the manufacturer web site this product is made of premium grade silicone rubber and a durable scratch resistant visor. In a past post I mentioned their underwater communication system; I am sure these gadgets will take your diving experience to the next level.

For me, the perfect product will be a combination of these two technologies the “true vision” lenses offered by HydroOptix used in the Neptune Space Raptor scuba diving mask!

To answer my own question (Are those “special” Scuba Diving masks a waste of money?): I don’t think so. I think that as scuba divers, we should take advantage of the developments in products and technologies to improve and enhance our underwater experience.

All the brands, names and images used for this article are the property of their respective owners.

Scuba Diving in Arizona's desert

On November 6, 2007 people from City of Mesa, Arizona by vast majority vote to approve Proposition 300, which basically is green light for the city's expenditure of public funds, tax concessions and grant of city-owned land to aid in the construction of the Waveyard Project. The Waveyard will be a huge water park that will offer surf-sized waves, snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking.

The focus of this development project will be delivering sports options that are not typically available in an urban environment. The 125-acre park will feature a scuba lagoon and a snorkeling pond with reefs. Scuba diving in The Sunken City will be the main attraction in the scuba diving lagoon featuring ruins and ancient relics, encrusted stone walls, colonnades, stone arches, coral, and plants will highlight your diving experience. You won’t find any fish in The Sunken City so don’t bring you harpoon.

The diving facility will have a dive shop with the latest diving equipment, classroom training, open water dive courses, classes in underwater video and photography, dry suit training, rescue diver courses, and diver medical courses. One proposed service of this dive shop that I found unique is that they will offer you the opportunity to demo or rent the latest wetsuits and diving gear.

According to the developer “The Sunken City will also play host to fiber optic night dives, scuba parties, and corporate team building events”. I don’t know you but I am having a hard time trying to imagine a “scuba party”!

This place will open to the public in 2010.

LED lights are cool for scuba diving

I was doing some research about this new technology and I found a wide range of products. I remember long time ago when I bought my first scuba lights…night diving was not the best experience since the lights were not the best products at that time.

The LED lights, as most of the best technologies, were originally designed for military personal. But now, after some years the cost of producing the LEDs is going down as the demand for this type of product is growing.

LED lights allow scuba divers maximum visibility and truer colors, since this type of light travels farther underwater. Another cool feature is that these lights last more than 20,000 hours.

Some of the best models are:

• Underwater Kinetics Mini Q40 e LED Plus. Depth rating: 500 feet.
• TREK 400 EX40, featuring 40 LEDs and 4-5 hours at full power. Depth rating: 300 feet.
• OMS 3 Watt LED Ultra Bright Headlamp, hands free light.

With this technology available, my recommendation is don’t buy halogen, buy LED and enjoy the experience of deep or night diving.

Aquaculture: potential business opportunity for divers

Love underwater sports, constant contact with marine or fresh water environment? Maybe Aquaculture is your next big business.

The broad term "aquaculture" refers to the breeding, rearing, and harvesting of plants and animals in all types of water environments, including ponds, rivers, lakes, and the ocean. Similar to agriculture, aquaculture can take place in the natural environment or in a manmade environment. Using aquaculture techniques and technologies, researchers and the aquaculture industry are "growing," "producing," "culturing," and "farming" all types of freshwater and marine species.

More specifically, marine aquaculture refers to the culturing of marine species, while freshwater aquaculture focuses on the culturing of freshwater species. For example, marine aquaculture production includes oysters, clams, mussels, shrimp, and salmon, while freshwater aquaculture operations produce trout, catfish, and tilapia.

With respect to marine aquaculture, the major technological barriers are:

• Finding suitable sites in coastal areas, where aquaculture must compete with many other coastal uses;


• Clarifying the regulatory and environmental requirements for existing as well as new marine aquaculture operations, including offshore (federal waters); and


• Developing technologies and best management practices to ensure that various types of production systems are compatible with marine ecosystems.

It can be extremely expensive to start a business like this in the US, that’s why everyday global entrepreneurs evaluate also established markets like Peru or Ecuador. For example, Peru has a good variety of exportable offers in the Seafood and Aquaculture business: http://www.prompex.gob.pe/catalog/empresa1.asp?idsector=1 from scallops to tilapia.

Remember that always is a good idea to assess your ideas or business ventures with a complete business plan. It will cost you time, not money.

Extreme Scuba Diving – NASA’s Undersea Missions

I have never traveled to the space and chances are that neither do you. But we, scuba divers, have the opportunity to experience a similar environment in every immersion.

The NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations (NEEMO) uses the Aquarius facilities. The Aquarius is the only undersea laboratory dedicated to marine science operating in the world. This underwater structure is owned by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and managed by the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW); Aquarius operates 4.5 kilometers offshore of Key Largo, Florida. The underwater laboratory is deployed next to deep coral reefs, 20 meters beneath the ocean surface. Aquarius provides life support systems that allow scientists to live and work underwater, in reasonably comfortable living quarters, with sophisticated research capabilities.

In this underwater laboratory the NASA employees and contractors have tested and practice lunar exploration concepts and also a complete range of long-duration spaceflight medical research projects. During the NASA NEEMO Missions, the crew conducted a variety of undersea "moon walks" to test concepts for future lunar exploration using advanced navigation and communication equipment.

I always thought that scuba divers are explorers of the oceans and underwater world; and it is good that the NASA is using an underwater facility to train future Space Station habitants, but I think that if we still do not have a complete understanding of the earth’s oceanic system, (my question always has been) would it make more sense explore and understand the oceans first?

What you should know about Scuba Diving and Flying

A simple rule that is sometimes overlooked even by experienced scuba divers. It is mentioned in almost all the scuba diving courses that it is not a good idea to scuba dive after flying or the opposite, fly right after scuba dive.

It does not matter if you took a two hour flight to a Caribbean island or a 20-hour flight to Phuket, Thailand; during flights your body suffers dehydration and it is affected by changes in pressure. To get a sense on how pressure works on your body, next time you are in an airplane try this: before the airplane takes off remove your shoes, then after a while (typically when the seatbelt sign goes off), try to wear your shoes again…sometimes you can’t.

NOAA’s Scuba Diving Manual has tables showing a ‘rough’ recommendation in terms of length of time that you will have to wait to dive or fly. As a general rule, most of the instructors and scuba related institutions recommend a 24-hour waiting period after flying. There are more accurate calculations based on some key elements of scuba diving (mix, time and depth), but I have never tried to do an accurate calculation.

The Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) has very interesting books and publications related to this topic, I think anyone interested in become a scuba diver should read the book titled “Diving Physiology in Plain English” by Dr. Jolie Bookspan. I am sure this book will help you to answer any simple or complex question related to diving physiology (The study of how the body works underwater).

Some divers and instructors say that if you do not wait for certain period before diving you increase your risk for decompression sickness. I think that statement makes sense, I am not a doctor but I try to be informed, according to Divers Alert Network most of the accidents occur in the first day of a multi day dive trip, is that a coincidence? Of course not!

Sometimes we (me included) are so obsessed and tempted to jump into the water on the very first day of our dive trip that we try to convince ourselves that there is no risk involved by doing that. The bad thing is that in case of emergency we do not have many choices underwater.

Remember, as soon as you arrive to your destination: rehydrate, get some rest and wait 24 hours prior to enjoy your scuba diving time!

Shoo Shark Shoo

Two weeks ago the company Shark Shield made the public announcement of their new electronic shark deterrent systems product line. These devices are the next generation in shark attack prevention systems based on the not so old PODs (Protective Oceanic Device) designed to be used by scuba divers, snorkelers and surfers.

The unit, according to the manufacturer creates an elliptical field that surrounds the user with an electric shield up to eight meters in diameter. I think this is a neat mechanism to prevent shark attacks. The Shark Shield will only deter sharks, rays and skates; it will not affect any other animals so, you can enjoy underwater photography or underwater video without disturbing the star of your movie or picture. By the way, it will not scare any seahorses or jellyfishes! :-)

The Shark Shield uses three-dimensional electronic waves that create muscular spasms and discomfort in the Ampullae of Lorenzini, one of the main the sensing organs of the sharks. These sensors are capable of detecting with accuracy electric fields, voltage and temperature in the water. What an incredible technology, no? I am referring to the shark’s sensors!

For almost US$600, this device can save you from one the worst underwater nightmares: a shark attack. An increasing number of companies and divers are buying this protective system for work or recreational purposes. Prevention and safety are good things, but also is good to know that a representative of the manufacturer said that the device worked 90% of the time repelling sharks, but it is not very effective when sharks are in an extremely agitated state.

In any case, there is always risk involved when diving with sharks.

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Scuba Diving and Fitness

Frequently, some of my friends and people interested in scuba diving asked me if it is ok to scuba dive if you are overweight or not the best fan of moving a single muscle. I am not a doctor or sports trainer to make an assessment if they are in good shape or not, so I always avoid saying yes or no. I am convinced that scuba diving, as any other sport, requires that you have at least some degree of physical preparation.

I have found that there is the erroneous idea that it doesn’t matter your physical condition to practice scuba diving or snorkeling. We, novice and experienced scuba divers, spend a lot of time researching scuba diving equipment, until we find the best design, technology and security features. And all this is ok, if we think that these are accessories that will support the scuba diving engine, our body.

In general terms, my recommendation is to establish a simple but effective workout routine, something achievable. For a beginner scuba diver, I will say start at the treadmill, after some weeks switch to running and then swimming. For somebody who is used to do some kind of exercise, maybe a combination of running, swimming and light weightlifting. For veteran divers who do some kind of exercise on a regular basis, on top of all these suggested training options, I will suggest some days only for abs and legs combined with stretching. After some weeks, you will notice that you feel great and your scuba diving experience is better now, the reason: your body is in better shape. You can dive more time; consume less oxygen and move faster than ever in the water, and…you will have less calf cramps for sure!

Be aware that these are only general ideas; always consult a professional prior to start any training program.

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Scuba Diving - UNDERWATER TALKING

A quick update on my latest post related to scuba diving with hammerhead sharks at Cocos Island (Coco Island, Costa Rica). This video will give any diver a good idea on what to expect to see during the immersion. Don't be scared by the number, because during day hours it is very common to see schools of sharks formed by more than one hundred sharks. Enjoy!

I don't know if you notice the underwater communication equipment that these divers are using. I know they are professional divers and underwater video makers (probably using expensive underwater communications equipment), but my point here is that these devices are very useful in any situation.

Ocean Technology Systems (OTS) offers a product for sport divers called Buddy Phone®, the technical name of these devices is 'Ultrasonic Transceivers' or 'Underwater Communications Equipment'; another option is the one produced by Divelink. In my humble opinion Ocean Reef offers the best of the best, the Neptune Space product line...dream equipment not for the average sport diver.

Scuba Diving Exotic Place – Coco Island and Costa Rica

The Coco Island is located at 373 miles (600km) southwest of Cabo Blanco in the Pacific Ocean. The official name in Spanish is “Isla del Coco” and is also referred as “Cocos Island”. The Coco Island is a National Park where you can find more that two hundred species of fish, more than fifteen coral types, and what I consider the main attraction, more than ten types of sharks, from including hammerheads to whale sharks.

Have you ever seen a wall of fish? These living walls are formed by schools of fish. The Coco Island is one amazing place where you can scuba dive and at the same time see something unique, like a large group of hammerhead sharks, the Coco Island offers not only great scuba diving spots but also a variety of above the water activities for your after scuba hours.

Another interesting thing about Costa Rica is that you have access to endless diving spots in the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, some of the best places for scuba diving are: Murcielago Islands, Coco Beach, Samara, Cabo Blanco, Montezuma, Tortuga Island, Quepos, Cahuita, Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo.

In general, Costa Rica’s beaches are quiet places, but just in case you decide to swim instead of scuba dive, you have to be careful at the following beaches: Bonita, Cahuita National Park (Costa Rica’s most beautiful coral reef), and Barranca, since there are no lifeguards and these beaches have strong rip currents (riptides). Remember if you get trapped in a rip current, do not fight it, your best option to get out of this situation is to swim parallel to the shoreline.

Scuba Diving Exotic Place – Phi Phi Leh Island, Thailand

If you are planning to travel to Thailand for your next scuba diving vacation, the movie “The Beach” will give you a sneak peak of what you will see. A combination of beautiful ocean views and exotic islands is the perfect place for a relaxing scuba diving adventure.
Some of the best spots for scuba diving in the Phi Phi Leh Island are:

Sea Lake, Maya Bay, Camel Rock, Hin Klang and Hin Phae. Hin Phae is one of the best places to see sharks; there is a large group of Blacktip reef sharks in that area. The only thing is that if you are scuba diving you won’t see these sharks closely, since they don’t like the noise from your regulator (bubbles). My recommendation, practice snorkeling at this spot and enjoy the experience of diving with (friendly) sharks.

To get to the Phi Phi Islands you can take boats from Phuket or Krabi. It is very advisable to book you hotel or lodging in advance since it is more likely that you will have to stay overnight.

Scuba Diving Exotic Place – The Amalfi Coast – Naples, Italy

In the bay of Conca dei Marini, part of the Amalfi Coast, you will find one of the best scuba diving spots in the area: Capo di Conca. This is the ‘gate’ to a spectacular cliff for scuba diving or underwater photography; you can dive into a cave located at 35 meters deep where you will find thousands of red shrimps and sponges. Also, it is very common to see octopuses, moray eels and seahorses during the scuba immersion.

Another recommended scuba diving spot in the Amalfi Coast is the “Li Galli” Island (Isola Galli), here you will find an incredible underwater scenario for scuba diving. There are boats from Praiano and Positano, but your scuba diving experience for sure will better if you pre-arrange a tour with any of the local scuba dive shops. The island is for rental also, but unless you are millionaire…don’t even ask the price!

And if you are around the area, don’t miss the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) located in Capri, the only think I am not sure if it is allowed to dive in the grotto (I didn’t see anyone diving while I was there), I don’t think you want to fight with the boat rowers!! As far as I know, the only allowed access to the grotto is by boat…and by permit (?) Tip: Keep your head down! Ischia, Capri and Procida are located in the Gulf of Naples, Italy.

In all the Amalfi Coast there are very good (and reliable) scuba diving equipment rental companies.

As a personal note, if you are traveling to Europe one of the best web sites to get some accurate Hotel reviews is Venere (http://www.venere.com). I did all my reservations using their system and works fine, but you have to consider that some of the hotels or bed and breakfast don’t have online reservation, so you will have to wait a couple of days to get a confirmation of the reservation.

Scuba Diving Equipment – Are you ready in case you RUN OUT of AIR?

While recreational scuba diving has a significant lower rate of accidents than other sports, emergencies happen and you should be prepared. But maybe you think that you will never run out of air because you have a gauge and you check it frequently...well, that is not completely true, because in the underwater world you have an infinite number of factors that can affect your diving experience.

Even the most experienced diver has faced in his life some kind of emergency or air related incident. In case you are wondering, how somebody can reach the point where he or she doesn’t have air?, some of the main reasons why people run out of air while scuba diving are generally due to failure in equipment (o-ring, gauge, tank, regulator, octopus, etc.) or external factors like diving in cold water, against or in a current, being trapped in a fishing net or under a rock.

In any case, you will need an additional or alternate source of air, or that could become your last diving experience. There are many options and techniques (like buddy breathing, octopus, pony bottles, etc) to overcome the problem of air shortage, but I will highly recommend you to consider buying a Spare Air system. I am not affiliated with any manufacturer, but it simply makes sense!

When you are shopping around for these kinds of scuba diving systems the key question is: What is your life worth?

Air is precious, especially when you are at 70 or 80 ft.

Scuba Diving – Five Places where you can find a Dive Buddy

Here are some ideas on where to look when searching for a Dive Buddy:

Scuba Diving Stores, usually you will find a message board, some of this ads are from new divers or divers looking for a dive buddy. If you are new to the area or city, ask the salespeople if they can recommend you to get in touch with somebody in particular.

“Find a Dive Buddy” specialized web sites: Divebuddy (http://www.divebuddy.com/) is a good place to start; this neat web site will let you search scuba divers by country, city, skills, dive experience, certification, etc. If you are based in the UK, try UK Divers (http://www.ukdivers.com) they have a forum for scuba divers looking for a dive buddy.

Scuba Diving Excursion Day, in most countries or cities you will find that there are travel agencies specialized in Diving Excursions and charters. Your best option is to book a day trip, but remember to tell them that you will need a dive buddy. If you think that the person you just met will be a good dive buddy, ask if it is possible to go to scuba dive some other day and exchange contact information.

Yellow Pages, yes! Yellow pages…old resource but still effective. Go to http://www.yellowpages.com or the local equivalent abroad and search for “scuba” in a particular city or browse the index if you are using the paper-based version. This is a real international resource; all the countries in the world have a Yellow Page book. Don’t forget to call the local scuba association.

Certification web sites usually have a section where scuba divers can publish their profile and location.

In my opinion the scuba diving certification web sites are the best place to find dive buddies.
But always remember, as in anything, nobody can guarantee that your new buddy is the best diver in the world. On a security note, be careful and ask for references if you are going to dive with somebody for the first time. The best dive buddy is always somebody who is trusted by somebody you know. So, ask your friends first.

And, your last option…google this “dive buddy finder” or “dive buddy” + location, for example “dive buddy California” (do not search with quotes).

Good Luck!

Do you know any other way to find a dive buddy?

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling with Sea Lions in Peru

I did both, Scuba Diving and Snorkeling, many years ago and I can tell you that were awesome experiences! The younger sea lions are friendly and playful animals, while the older are not that friendly, they are not dangerous but a hit could hurt you if they decide to ‘play’ with you, considering the size of this animals, length 8’ 6” and weight 1000 lbs.

As scuba divers, sometimes we look for some kind of interactivity while diving, this is the perfect time to try to do something and get a response. If you have nightmares about sharks biting you, try scuba diving with sea lions! These animals, as I mentioned like to play with the new element in the water, you, the scuba diver. So, don’t be scared if you see one of them coming at lightning speed, for sure he wants to play with you. As a side note, they eat fish, squid, and octopus mainly; and will bite only if provoked. Never try to approach a beached sea lion.

There are many places in the world where you can try this. I did scuba diving and snorkeling during some day trips to Palomino Islands and San Lorenzo Island, the largest island in front of the coast of Lima, Peru’s capital.

My recommendation is that if you are going to practice scuba diving for the first time around this animals or any animal (except crabs, starfishes and seahorsesJ) always, always go with somebody that is familiar with the area and the behavior of the animals.

San Lorenzo Island and Palomino islands location: Lima, Peru
Latitude = -12.1092, Longitude = -77.1927
Lat = 12 degrees, 6.5 minutes South
Long = 77 degrees, 11.6 minutes West

If you are interested, once you are in Lima, Peru you can call or visit some travel agencies in the financial District of San Isidro or in the touristic district of Miraflores, for sure they will help you to book guided tours or boats with scuba diving equipment. If you know very well the Callao port area, you can go directly to the Callao port or La Punta and try to get a boat, I do not recommend this option, but it is up to you.

Do you have any similar scuba diving or snorkeling experiences with animals?

Buying a SNORKEL is easy!

It could be very confusing for somebody who is starting in the scuba world the simple task of buying a snorkel. There are all sorts of brands and models, so what I am putting here are the main types that you will find in any store:

• Regular snorkels: These are the ones that allow the tube (also known as barrel) to be filled with water when you dive. Therefore, you will need to clear (purge) the water from the snorkel when you return to the surface. And, as you may be aware, there is no rocket science in the design of these models :-)
• Semi-Dry: These come with a protective mechanism that prevents the water to enter the tube; usually it is referred as deflector. My recommendation will be, if you are going to spend some money in a snorkel buy a dry, not a semi-dry.
• Dry snorkels: You are right! As you can imagine, dry means no water in the tube. These models come with a ‘device’ in the tip of the tube to prevent the water to fill it when you are diving, I don’t like to drink sea water!

I am not affiliated with any brand, but the Oceanic Ultra Dry Snorkel in my opinion is the best since it really performs as advertised. Not a single drop of water in the tube. You can see the technology behind this snorkel valve design here: http://www.oceanicworldwide.com/img/p_snorkels_ultradry_dwg.jpg

Some of the things you should do when buying a snorkel are:

• Test the flexibility of the silicone part in lower section of the tube; you don’t want it to be too rigid or too soft.
• Buy a snorkel with a soft and flexible silicone mouthpiece, this will help you to stay more time in the water when you are snorkeling, a more comfortable mouthpiece will prevent jaw and face muscles fatigue. Try to keep your mouth open for ten or fifteen minutes holding a rigid object to get an idea of what I am referring to jaw fatigue. The mouthpiece is very important, so be sure that is smooth and replaceable.
• Measure the length of the snorkel in relationship with your head’s size. Some novice divers realize (too late, when they are in the water) that the tube is too short or long.

Some of the brands you can search on the Internet are: Aeris, Apollo, Cressi-Sub, Genesis, H2O, Mares, Oceanic, Omersub, Seavision, Sherwood, Sporasub, TUSA, U.S. Divers, and XS Scuba.

What type of FINS should you buy?

Well it depends, first you will need to understand that fins are key components of you scuba gear. You can think of fins in this way: your body is the engine, fins are the propellers. As a general rule fins should fit your foot as if you were wearing shoes. We can divide the fins based on design:

Strap heel fins: This type of fins offer the diver now a variety of options, you will find adjustable straps, non-adjustable (elastic) straps, and even spring (yes, spring! fin straps), metal buckles, plastic buckles, single or multiple water displacement channels or vents, and some other features or modifications of the basic design like the new Split Fins that are supposed to increase your speed and reduce your air consumption underwater. I will write a review on the best Split Fins on the market soon.

Usually, most of the divers use neoprene booties with strap heel fins…and I can tell you from my own experience that it is a great idea!!…blisters are a real pain in the foot!! You will find two presentations of neoprene booties in the market: full neoprene and neoprene with hard sole, personally I prefer the full neoprene version….well unless you plan to walk on rocks, only in that case a wiser selection will be a hard sole bootie.

It is very advisable to buy your booties at the same time that you are buying your fins.

Full foot fins: Compared to the strap heel fins these are less expensive and very popular. If you are going to snorkeling, I will definitely recommend you to use this kind of fins. The full foot fin could be one single piece or a combination of two different materials. I will be posting more details on full foot fins soon.

Some popular brands of fins you can search (and research!) on the Internet are: Aeris, Apollo, APS, Aquatec, Cressi-Sub, Deep Sea, Dive Rite, Genesis, H2O, Mares, Ocean Reef, Oceanic, OMS, Sherwood, TUSA, XS Scuba, Zeagle and….you can also try a search for Bob Evan’s Force Fin, this guy is very creative, I like his products.

How to choose your scuba gear wisely…

Buying your first scuba diving gear is the key indicator that you are decided to jump to the water. You need to organize your shopping wisely, it’s better to first start with the basic stuff, and then, if you really (…but really, really) like this sport, you can buy the rest of the equipment.

Basic Equipment: Mask, Snorkel, Fins, and Wetsuit.

MASK: Your scuba mask is an important piece of equipment because it provides you a great view to the vast underwater world. Whether you buy a mask for snorkeling or diving, here is what you need to know before you purchase your next mask. Scuba masks come in an endless choice of style and color, but there are many things to consider when purchasing a scuba mask, including: field of vision, a high-grade silicone skirt for a lasting and comfortable seal, comfortable nose pocket and a high-grade, flexible silicone strap and strap fasteners. A high quality scuba mask and its proper care will ensure that it will last for years.

Features

Shape: Every face is different and not every scuba mask fits every face. You should try on a variety of scuba masks, of different shapes and sizes; to ensure the scuba mask you purchase fits you properly and will be comfortable for long scuba dives. The shape of the scuba mask and the silicone skirt on the mask must conform to the shape of your face to provide you with a comfortable fit. Ensuring the silicone skirt is a high-grade, flexible silicone can help to ensure the scuba mask conforms to the shape of your face and the long life of your scuba mask.

Nose pockets: The nose pocket protects and cushions your nose, helps to keep your scuba mask from fogging during a dive and helps you to maintain equalization. Ensure the size and shape of your nose pocket is comfortable; not too tight and not too large. This will improve not only the comfort of your scuba mask, but your ability to purge your mask efficiently. The nose pocket allows you to equalize the air pressure in your mask as you go deeper.

Volume: A low volume mask is easier to clear and aids in equalizing your ears. These masks also cause less drag. A low volume mask measures about 4.5 inches or less between the temples.

View area: Scuba masks are available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes each offering a varying field of vision. The two most common styles of scuba masks offer either a 3-pane or a 4-pane lens. The 3-pane lens offers a single front lens with left and right side windows. A 4-pane scuba mask separates the front lens into two pieces and includes the left and right side windows.

Straps: Scuba mask straps are available in a single strap or a double strap design. The single strap should wrap around the centre of the back of your head. The benefit of the double strap is that you can position the top strap on the upper part of your head and the bottom strap on the lower part of your head to offer extra stability and comfort. Most scuba mask’s straps are rubber or silicone and fasten with a post-hole belt enclosure. Newer scuba masks offer a slide-lock type enclosure, which allows you to adjust the scuba mask quickly and easily when wearing the mask.

Which mask do I need to buy?

A good signal you have chosen the right scuba mask for your face is when the mask stays on your face comfortably without using the straps to hold it in place. You should try this simple test with each scuba mask you try on for the first time:

• Place the scuba mask over your eyes and mouth ensuring the mask is in the correct position.
• Take a quick, light breath in through your nose and immediately start to breathe through your mouth as if you are scuba diving. This will create a slight suction between the scuba mask and your face. The scuba mask should stay on your face. If you must push the scuba mask against your face, or inhale repeatedly to help the mask stay on your face, the mask is not a good fit.
• Keep the scuba mask on your face for approximately one minute. This will help you to determine how tight the seal is and how comfortable the mask is on your face.
• Exhale gently through your nose to release the seal on your scuba mask and remove the mask from your face.

Brands

Some of the brands of Scuba masks you should look: Mares, Oceanic, Seavision, Apollo, XS Scuba, Sherwood Scuba, Poseidon, Zeagle, Max, H2Odyssey, Genesis, Dacor, Odyssey, Cressi-sub, OMS, Tusa, 1st Diving, Aqua-lung, Aqua-sphere, U.S. Divers, Blue Reef, Aeris, Cayman, Genesis, Techni-sub, ScubaPro, Sporasub, Ocean Reef, Evo, Nova.