Diving


Why Dive?

The Oceans cover more than 70% of the surface of the earth, it is estimated that around 91% of ocean species have yet to be classified and that more than 80% of the oceans remain unexplored! Diving provides us with a unique, albeit relatively small, insight into this liquid realm and enables us to observe some of the creatures and their habitats that exist beneath the surface.

SCUBA Diving

I first learnt to SCUBA dive in the UK when I was 18 alongside my Undergrad course in Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology at Plymouth University. Since then I have been fortunate to log dives in some incredible locations around the world, I have also gained a lot of experience by qualifying as an Advanced Instructor and by working as a commercial diver.

As a marine biologist I value SCUBA diving as a way to further my understanding of aquatic life, I have dived in order to document specific sharks and their behavioural interactions, to assess the regeneration of habitats within Marine Protected Areas and to obtain images for photojournalism publications.

Cave Diving, Palau

I enjoy all sorts of diving; shore, boat, wreck, reefs, walls, caves and open ocean. I have dived in some phenomenal locations and if I am pressed to name my ‘favourite’ I would say Palau. Recently however I have spent most of my time diving around Scotland. There are plenty of little-known sites which my buddy and I have to ourselves about 99.9% of the time! The habitats are varied with plenty of life, macrophotography in particular is superb here.

Amphibians Club

In fact it was whilst living in North East Scotland that I first became aware of the first post war sport diving club in the UK; The Amphibians Club, formed by SCUBA pioneer Ivor Howitt and his friends in 1948. The AC is a fascinating story and you can find out more here: http://www.amphibiansclub.co.uk/

Freediving

Freediving is also a great way to explore the underwater world with a much reduced kit list! I often explore a new area by freediving the location first, this allows me to check out the habitat and carry out an initial survey prior to a more in depth exploration on SCUBA. I obtained my PADI freediving qualification out in Cyprus several years ago, it’s important to remember that freediving is very different to snorkelling and I would urge anyone interested in pursuing this to do so with a qualified instructor (same goes for SCUBA of course!).