The Benefits of Diving Nitrox Versus Air

Not long ago, enriched air nitrox was something only cutting-edge technical divers used. Today, Enriched Air Diver is PADI®’s most popular specialty course. Here’s what you need to know about earning an enriched air certification and the pros and cons of diving nitrox.

padi enriched air diver

What is nitrox?

Humans are accustomed to breathing air that’s approximately 79 percent nitrogen and 21 percent oxygen. Technically, any mixture of nitrogen and oxygen is nitrox – that includes the air you’re breathing right now.

In the scuba realm, “nitrox” (also known as enriched air nitrox and EANx) typically describes breathing gas that is 32-36 percent oxygen. More oxygen means less nitrogen, and that has some nice benefits.

As you learned in the Open Water Diver course®, nitrogen absorption is one of the things that limits our ability to explore underwater. Enriched air nitrox allows you to:

  • Extend your bottom time
  • Shorten surface intervals
  • Dive deeper on repetitive dives

Is a nitrox certification “worth it”? 

If you fancy staying down longer and getting back in the water sooner, then yes; getting nitrox certified is worth it. You can take more photos, wave to more turtles, and spend more time exploring at depth.

Many divers wait too long to try nitrox. They don’t realise the benefits of an enriched air certification until they’re on holiday. Imagine this scenario:

There you are, on the second day of your diving adventure. Your first dive was deep, below 30 metres/100 feet. After a relaxing surface interval, you’re eager for dive two – a wreck.

During the briefing, the divemaster tells divers on air to mind their depth and don’t go deeper than the wreck’s main deck. Enriched air divers, however, can explore the entirety of the ship. You watch with envy as the nitrox divers drop to the bottom, follow a stingray conga line, and discover buried treasure.

All joking aside, if you plan to do a multi-day dive trip, a liveaboard, etc., do yourself a favor and get nitrox certified. Nitrox allows you to spend more time at depth compared to diving on air, which means you’ll get a lot more out of your diving holiday.

Even if you’re only making one dive, but it’s deeper than 15 metres/50 feet, nitrox is beneficial. Consider this:

  • If you plan a dive to 21 metres/70 feet on air, your maximum no-stop limit is 40 minutes.
  • If you’re diving 32 percent enriched air, the no-stop limit is 60 minutes
    (unless you use up the air in your tank before then).

What are the pros and cons of nitrox diving?

If enriched air is so great, why doesn’t everyone use nitrox all the time? Good question, there are a few reasons:

  • Cost – enriched air tank fills typically cost more than regular air fills
  • Depth limitations – the maximum depth limit for nitrox is different than air and depends on the blend (something you’ll learn as part of your nitrox certification).
  • Availability – not every dive shop offers enriched air
  • Cylinder requirements – you need a dedicated cylinder for enriched air fills

Start Your Nitrox Certification Online

Getting nitrox certified only takes a few hours. You can complete most of your nitrox training online. A short, in-person session with a PADI Instructor where you’ll practise analysing air (and a few other things,) is all it takes to finish up. There are two optional dives.

You may have heard the nitrox course is challenging and you have to use multiple dive tables – not anymore. PADI’s nitrox course was updated several years ago. Now you use a dive computer for most everything.

A Few More Reasons to Get a PADI Nitrox Certification

Start your nitrox certification today by enrolling in Enriched Air Diver online. Questions? Contact your local PADI dive shop.

Further Reading

PADI Enriched Air Diver Course Overview

4 Reasons Why Enriched Air Nitrox Should Be Your Next Specialty

The 11 Best Nitrox Diving Destinations

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Mayer Optik Gorlitz ship Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II

by Adam Hanlon

Lenses on Wetpixel

Meyer Optic Görlitz are shipping their new version of the Trioplan 50mm f/2.8. Available in Canon, Nikon, Sony and MFT (among others) mounts, the lens is sharp at distance, but also allows for soap bubble bokeh when used at shorter distances.

The Trioplan 50 f2.8 II is available to order now, priced at around €876.34.

From Meyer Optic Görlitz

Trioplan 50 f2.8 II

THE ALL-ROUNDER WITH THE SPECIAL TRIOPLAN-BOKEH

Our Trioplan 50 f2.8 II has been redesigned from scratch. A new mechanical design based on the Trioplan 100 f2.8 II now offers photographers an excellent handling of the 50mm focal length from the Trioplan family. By optimizing the optical design, it is now possible to focus on infinite sharpness even at aperture f2.8 and thus nothing stands in the way of versatile use. Of course, the Trioplan 50 f2.8 II also draws the famous soapbubble bokeh and at shorter distances a light swirl is created in the bokeh of the image. Like all current Meyer Optik Görlitz lenses, the Trioplan 50 f2.8 II was also designed for full format, but can of course also be used on APS-C cameras.

Lenses on Wetpixel

HISTORICAL MODEL IN A NEW GUISE

Through the use of high-quality materials and the latest manufacturing technologies, the more than 100-year history of the Trioplan 50 has been cast into modern moulds. Of course, the character of the Trioplan 50 was taken into account and implemented accordingly. Our Trioplan 50 f2.8 II offers photographers an individual picture language and at the same time the versatile possibilities of a 50mm focal length. Of course the Trioplan 50 is manufactured for the most common mounts of modern cameras: Canon EF, Nikon F, Fuji X, Sony E, Pentax K, M42, Micro-Four-Thirds, Leica M and Leica L.

THE UNIQUE STYLE OF TRIOPLAN

In addition to the well-known soap bubble bokeh, which is created most strongly in backlight situations, the Trioplan 50 f2.8 II draws a light swirl at close range. The versatility of a 50mm focal length or a so-called “normal lens” makes the Trioplan Bokeh suitable for many applications such as street/reportage, portrait and nature photography. Due to the natural-looking viewing angle at 50mm fixed focal lengths, the certain something is missing in some photographs and that’s exactly what the Trioplan with its wonderful Bokeh can contribute. By using macro-rings, you can profit from the special bokeh of the Trioplan 50 f2.8 II even in the macro range.

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500,000 SHARKS COULD BE KILLED FOR COVID-19 VACCINE

Half a Million Sharks Could Be Harvested for Their Squalene-Rich Livers

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A shark’s liver is extracted to produce squalene, used in the manufacture of vaccines (Photo: Shutterstock)

DIVE Report

To manufacture a Covid-19 vaccine on a global scale more than half a million sharks could be slaughtered, conservationists have warned.

Squalene, a natural oil found in the livers of sharks, is often used to enhance the effect of a vaccine. It is used in many flu jabs and is being used in most of the Covid-19 vaccines currently being tested.

If a squalene-enhanced vaccine is used it would need at least 250,000 sharks to be harvested to provide a dose for world-wide vaccination, according to California-based Shark Allies.

However, some scientists believe two doses may be needed to immunise the population, meaning around 500,000 sharks would need to be slaughtered.  

Stefanie Brendl, founder and executive director of Shark Allies, said: ‘Harvesting something from a wild animal is never going to be sustainable, especially if it’s a top predator that doesn’t reproduce in huge numbers.

‘There’s so many unknowns of how big and how long this pandemic might go on, and then how many versions of it we have to go through, that if we continue using sharks, the numbers of sharks taken for this product could be really high, year after year after year.’

In a Facebook post, she added: ‘We are not trying to slow down or hinder the production of a vaccine.

‘We simply ask that testing of non-animal derived squalene is conducted alongside shark squalene so it can be replaced as soon as possible.

‘At billions of doses needed per year, for decades to come, it is critical that we don’t rely on a wild animal resource. It can be detrimental to shark species that are hunted for their oil, and it is not a reliable supply chain.’

The group has set up an online petition named ‘Stop Using Sharks in COVID-19 Vaccine – Use EXISTING Sustainable Options’.

The group say squalene made from shark liver oil is used most commonly because it is ‘cheap to obtain’ and ‘easy to come by’.

But they say the chemical structure of the squalene compound is identical in sharks and non-animal alternatives, meaning its effectiveness in vaccines should be identical regardless of its source.

All plants and animals produce squalene and it can be produced from non-animal-based sources including yeast, sugarcane and olive oil.

 

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The Best Scuba Diving in Koh Lanta

Off the western coast of Thailand lie 52 islands that make up the archipelago of Koh Lanta. The largest islands, Koh Lanta Yai (big) and Koh Lanta Noi (little) are a tropical haven where travelers and tourists come to relax and unwind. Mountains covered in lush rainforest form a dramatic backdrop to 17 miles (27 km) of coastline, dotted with white, sandy beaches and mangroves. But Koh Lanta’s idyllic landscape isn’t the only draw — what lies beneath the ocean attracts scuba divers from around the world. Crystal-clear, warm waters offer great visibility, vivid colors, varied dive sites, and abundant marine life. From new divers to those with thousands of dives, the best scuba diving in Koh Lanta offers something everyone.

Koh Rok

scuba diving koh lanta
Soft corals abound at many sites (Photo courtesy of the author)

Nineteen miles (30 km) to the south of Koh Lanta are th two sister islands that comprise Koh Rok. Located in the Mu Koh Lanta National Marine Park, Koh Rok has some of the most pristine coral you will see in Thailand. The reef on the western side of the island slopes down to a sandy bottom at 65 feet (20 m) where you can see blue-spotted Kuhl’s stingrays.

The reef consists of hard corals where nudibranchs, octopus, moray eels, and lots of small fish hang out. Blacktip reef sharks are often active in the area around dusk and dawn.

The eastern tip of Koh Lanta features soft corals with huge gorgonian sea fans, coral trees, and sponges. Feeding turtles are the highlight here and you may spot pelagic fish like mackerel and cobia. Koh Rok really offers everything a diver wants.

Koh Haa

scuba diving Koh Lanta
Koh Haa rock formations (photo courtesy of the author)

Five large rocks make up Koh Haa, 15.5 miles (25 km) west of Koh Lanta. There are 10 different dive sites around the islands, each offering different topography and features that snorkelers and divers of all levels will enjoy.

Koh Haa Lagoon

Perfect for beginners is the lagoon at the center of Koh Haa. Depths range from 10 feet (3 m) on the inside to 40 feet (12 m) on the outside of the lagoon. Excellent visibility offers divers the chance to spot countless species including banded sea snakes, yellow boxfish, lionfish, butterflyfish, squid, stingrays, trumpetfish, and octopus. The lagoon is also a favorite with macro photographers looking for elusive seahorses, nudibranchs, frogfish, ghost pipefish, shrimp, and seamoths.

Koh Haa Yai

scuba diving in koh lanta
A banded coral shrimp peeps out from a coral crevice (photo courtesy of the author)

The largest of the Koh Haa islands is a playground for advanced divers with numerous caves, caverns, and swim-throughs. The largest cavern is known as The Cathedral, where natural light filters through the water, illuminating huge, ancient stalactites that hang from the ceiling. It’s possible to surface inside The Cathedral so you can really take in this magical sight. Many of the swim-throughs and caves are easily accessible for experienced divers, however some are not, and only specially trained cave divers should attempt entry.

Around Koh Haa Yai you will find leafy ghost pipefish, harlequin shrimp, and spiny lobsters hiding in cracks and crevices. Whale sharks often visit the island in April, you may be lucky enough to see whales passing by on their yearly migration.

Hin Muang

A firm favorite with divers in Koh Lanta is Hin Muang, which means purple rock. This fully submerged pinnacle boasts the tallest vertical wall in Thailand, descending to over 197 feet (60 m).

The pinnacle is densely covered in purple soft corals with large white, red, and orange sea fans. Hin Muang is all about the bigger fish, with leopard and gray reef sharks hanging out in the deep, accompanied by huge schools of barracuda, tuna, and jackfish. Keep an eye out for smaller critters hiding among the anemones in the shallows. Don’t forget to look out in the blue where manta rays frequently fly through the water.

Conditions at Hin Muang are unpredictable. Strong currents and deep depths make it suitable for experienced divers only. But if you can stomach the rough 2.5-hour boat ride, Hin Muang is a dive not to be missed.

Koh Waen

scuba diving in Koh Lanta
Eels are common on Koh Lanta dives (photo courtesy of the author)

An hour speedboat journey brings you to the small, uninhabited island of Koh Waen. The diving around the island has loads to offer with plenty of overhangs and caves to explore. Giant porcupinefish, moray eels, nurse sharks, and stingrays take shelter here. Schools of yellowtail snappers and barracuda surround huge boulders, covered in sponges, corals, and anemones.

Train Wreck

Koh Waen is also home to one of the most unique dive sites in the region. In 2015, Thai authorities sank a train to create an artificial reef. Since then its 20 wagons have become home to thousands of reef fish.

Yellow fusiliers, pufferfish, porcupinefish, and nudibranchs hide in and around the wagons. It’s not unusual to find nurse sharks underneath the wreck and stingrays in the surrounding sands. Schools of yellowtail and chevron barracuda prowl the area, hunting for prey. With a maximum depth of 60 feet (18 m) this is one train wreck every level of diver can enjoy.

When is the best time to go scuba diving in Koh Lanta?

Water temperatures vary slightly between 82 and 87 F (28 to 31 degrees C) during the year, making Koh Lanta a year-round diving destination. October to April is high season with December and January being the busiest times of the year.

During the low season (May to October), westerly monsoon winds blow in from the Indian Ocean bringing rain and the occasional thunderstorm. However, even though the weather is unpredictable, you can also expect long periods of sunshine and calm seas. Dive shops will vary their schedules during this time as some sites will be inaccessible, especially Hin Muang.

If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Koh Lanta between February and April. This is also the best time to spot manta rays and whale sharks. Whatever time you choose to visit Koh Lanta, you are sure to enjoy all the diving these islands have to offer.

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ANNIVERSARY OF THE SUPERIOR PRODUCER

This Week in 1977, Curaçao’s Superior Producer Became an Iconic Caribbean Wreck

superior producer 1000

The Superior Producer in its early years, still registered in Rotterdam (Photo: Curaçao Maritime Museum)

One of Curaçao’s most well loved dive sites, widely regarded as one of the best wrecks in the world, sank on 30 September 1977. Bryan Horne of Dive Curacao takes look at the history of the MV Superior Producer, and how it came meet its untimely end

The coastal cargo ship MV Superior Producer began life in 1957 as the MV Andromeda, built by Handel & Scheepsbouw Maatschappij Kramer and Booy NV, from Kootstertille, Netherlands. Measuring 50.22m (165ft) in length and 7.79m (25.5ft) in width and with a maximum draught of 2.58m (8.5ft), the 400-tonne freighter was delivered on 8 November 1957 to Muller and Reitsma NV, in Rotterdam, Netherlands. On 22 February1962, she was sold to the shipping company Rederij L Remeeus, also based in Rotterdam, where she was re-registered as the MV Superior Producer.

For the most part, the ship had a rather mundane existence, picking up and dropping off cargo along the Dutch coastline. The vessel changed hands several times over the next few years until 13 November 1970, when she was sold to shipping agent Pan-Ven Line SA. The Superior Producer was re-flagged to represent her new Panamanian home port and deployed for the sole purpose of moving cargo between Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, and Pampatar, a city on Venezeula’s Isla Margarita.

superior producer sinking maritime museum

The Superior Producer took on a serious list almost as soon as it left the harbour (Photo: Curaçao Maritime Museum)

Early in the morning of 30 September 1977, the MV Superior Producer docked in St Annabaai on the inside of Curaçao Harbour, just past the famous Queen Emma floating bridge which spans the harbour. She was loaded with a Christmas cargo consisting of whisky, bottles of perfume, clothing – including a large shipment of blue jeans – and bags, destined for Venezuela and the upcoming holiday shopping season.

The vessel was so overloaded that the captain himself advised against sailing, but at 1:30pm on that fateful Thursday afternoon, the crew of nine Venezuelan and Colombian men cast off the lines and set sail. As soon as they left the safe confines of the harbour, rough seas caused the cargo to shift, and the ship immediately took on a dangerous list. The captain ordered a portion of the improperly stowed cargo to be thrown overboard, but to no avail, as the crew had neglected to close the portholes, and the Producer had already begun taking on water. Even the efforts of the Curaçao Port Authority tugboat to pull the ship upright again proved ineffectual.

After several unsuccessful attempts at stabilising the ship, the harbourmaster – fearing for safety of the crew and concerned that the harbour entrance might be damaged or blocked – halted the rescue effort and tugged the Superior Producer approximately 500m (1,640ft) west of the harbour entrance. At 4.30pm, three hours after casting-off, the Superior Producer disappeared below the waves and into the turquoise depths, about 150m (500ft) from shore. The captain and crew safely abandoned ship and were picked up by a boat from the harbour police.

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The Superior Producer’s stern looming into view as divers approach (Photo: turtleandray.com)

Word of the sinking spread across Curaçao like wildfire. Scuba divers, free-divers and snorkelers alike arrived on the shoreline from all over the island to scavenge the wreck for all its cargo. It was described as ‘pure chaos’ at the time, and within a few days, there was nothing left – even the neglected portholes had been taken. Curaçao’s Christmas market was well-stocked with an abundance of blue jeans.

Today, the wreck sits upright on an even keel, with her bow facing west in roughly 30m (100ft) of water, approximately 150m (500ft) from the shoreline just west of the Curaçao Mega-pier. The wreck is an advanced dive but easily accessible from either boat or shore, with Curaçao’s clear water making the Producer easy to spot from the surface. The best approach is generally to begin the dive at the stern due to the direction of the prevailing currents, which are rarely very strong.

As you descend the fringing reef from a shore dive, an eerie dark shadow starts to appear as you head out into open water. At first, you only see the stern, but then the entirety of this magnificent 50m (165ft) mass, with its superstructure rising to within 21m (72ft) of the surface reveals itself, covered in a vast kaleidoscope of colour. Today, with more than 40 years of growth, the Superior Producer has become an amazing artificial reef site home to numerous colonies and different species of corals, sponges, gorgonians and sea whips. Because of this, it is a natural attraction for schools of large predatory fish such as tarpon, barracuda, snappers and jacks.

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Looking forward from the wheelhouse across the open cargo holds (Photo: turtleandray.com)

The Producer is also a heaven for anyone who likes to take a closer look at smaller stuff – and macro photographers will find plenty to fill their lenses. Caribbean spiny lobsters, parrotfish, French and queen angelfish, turtles, scorpionfish and moray eels are all present around the wreck. Look closer for banded coral shrimp, nudibranchs, flamingo-tongue shells and, if you have good eyes, frogfish camouflaged against the corals and sponges. Basket stars, octopus and large spider crabs catch the eye while night diving this beautiful shipwreck too.

With its wide-open cargo holds and accessible wheelhouse, encrusted in bright corals and surrounded by wildlife, the Superior Producer has become renowned as one of the top wreck dives in the world, taking a place alongside the likes of the Red Sea’s SS Thistlegorm and Bali’s USAT Liberty.

For more information on Curaçao, its dive sites, history, dive centres and latest travel advice, visit www.divecuracao.info

 

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Wetpixel Live: Snoot Round-Up

by Adam Hanlon

Snoots are a tool frequently used by underwater photographers to create dramatic images. On Wetpixel Live, Alex Mustard and Adam Hanlon provide a brief round-up of the different types that are currently available and share some ideas on when their use is appropriate.

Wetpixel Live is a series of short talks aimed at trying to help underwater photographer create stunning images. Please subscribe to the Wetpixel Live channel to keep abreast of new episodes as they are released.

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Make Your Holidays Special

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Wreck Diving in Cyprus

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Ikelite Ships Housing for Sony a6000

by Adam Hanlon

Ikelite is shipping its housing for the Sony a6000 mirrorless camera. Constructed of Ikelite’s signature white ABS and featuring the DLM port system, the housing has optional TTL strobe triggering, a port for adding a vacuum system and the camera’s LCD screen can be tilted inside the housing to make it easier to view.

The Ikelite 200DLM/A housing for Sony a6000 is shipping now at $775.00 in the U.S.A.

From Ikelite

200DLM/A Underwater Housing for Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Cameras

Product # 69120
$ 775.00

ABOUT THIS PRODUCT

The 200DLM/A Underwater Housing is the perfect companion allowing use of the Sony Alpha a6000 mirrorless cameras in or around the water for scuba, snorkeling, surf, pool, or any adventure.

This housing requires the addition of a compatible DLM Lens Port for waterproof operation. Lens Port not included.

View the DLM/A Lens Port Chart…

Advantages of the Ikelite Housing

  • 200 ft (60m) depth rating
  • Extendable shutter release lever
  • Extendable AF/MF button thumb lever for back button focus
  • Interchangeable Dry Lock Micro port system including flat ports, 6”dome ports, and 8” dome ports
  • Corrosion-proof ABS-PC construction
  • Clear view back with laser engraved control markings
  • Ergonomic, field serviceable direct-drive controls
  • Accessory ports for optional vacuum system and TTL converter
  • Supports LCD tilt
  • Made in the USA

Additional Reading

DL2 DS Link Sony TTL Converter Underwater Photos

Ergonomics and handling

Good ergonomics are critical when you need to concentrate on composition, focus, and proper exposure. Large, curved control levers put the most important controls right where you need them: shutter and autofocus (via the AF/MF button). This combination allows you to shoot with or without back button focus, an advanced technique that is useful for tack sharp focus of super macro and fast moving subjects. Each lever can be extended using the optional Shutter Trigger Extension # 4077.95 for perfect spacing when using a right-hand handle.

The control dial, rear control wheel, mode dial, power, and lens release controls are all operated intuitively via premium soft-touch knobs. Stainless steel, direct-drive rotating controls are virtually fail-safe and user serviceable and adjustable in a pinch.

All rear camera buttons are accessible by smooth action, hard anodized aluminum push buttons for reliable performance and easy maintenance. These controls are clearly labeled by laser engraving on the back of the housing that never fades or falls off.

Two 1/4-20 threaded mounting points are included on the bottom of the housing for simple, rotation-free attachment of a tray and handle system. Handles provide improved ergonomics underwater and are the foundation for your lighting mounts. The Tray with Dual Quick Release Handles # 9523.64 is the most popular choice for both handling and attachment of accessories.

Set-Up

The camera mount is front-loading for easy installation and removal. A small mounting plate attaches to the bottom of the camera and secures in the front of the housing. The camera mounting plate does not need to be removed from the camera for surface use or when changing the battery or memory cards. The mounting plate features a 1/4-20 threaded mount on the bottom so that it can be attached to a tripod on the surface.

Confidence

The unique rear seal design prevents accidental twisting or stretching of the o-ring for simple and confident assembly. We have eliminated the need for an o-ring groove or channel which can trap sand, dirt, or debris. Two double-passivated stainless steel locking lid snaps are simple to use and virtually unbreakable. The clear back allows you to see the o-ring form a solid, watertight seal as it closes.

Vacuum Testing

A spare 1/2-20 threaded accessory port is provided on the side of the housing for easily installation of the optional Vacuum Kit # 47012. A vacuum kit allows you to draw a vacuum on the housing to check for leaks prior to entering the water.

Drawing a vacuum on the system also provides extra security at the surface of the water, especially important when using the housing in rough surf.

Viewfinders

The camera’s large, super-bright LCD screen is viewable edge-to-edge through the back of the housing. The LCD may be tilted during installation for more comfortable viewing underwater.

Lighting

Light is absorbed as it travels through even short distances underwater, making colors appear dull or monochromatic. To preserve the natural colors of your subject, it’s important to stay within arm’s reach—no more than 3-4 feet (1m) away. For the best results, we recommend adding an external flash or high-powered constant-on light if you’ll be diving regularly below 15’ (3m).

This housing supports your choice of shooting strobes by electrical sync cord or fiber optic triggering.

You can enjoy the fastest and most accurate TTL exposure on the market by adding the DL2 DS Link Sony TTL Converter Ikelite ST1 Hotshoe and B1A Bulkhead Kit # 46045 and a compatible Ikelite DS strobe. Exposure compensation may be used added or subtracted in the camera. Reliable locking connectors between the hotshoe and bulkhead make it easy to install the optional TTL electronics or carry back up parts when traveling.

See photos taken with the DL2 DS Link Sony TTL Converter…

The camera’s built-in flash is suitable for firing an external strobe, but not for lighting a photo underwater. Two fiber optic ports are built into the front of the housing provide an attachment point for fiber optic cords from most major manufacturers.

A bright constant-on video light can be used instead of or in addition to a flash. A constant-on light is not as bright as a strobe flash. Constant-on lights do provide added versatility because they can be used for focus assist and for improved colors when shooting video.

There is a simple rule that brighter is better underwater. A high-quality lighting system can produce professional quality results.

Port System

It couldn’t be more simple to change ports than this system—just press the port on and tighten three thumb screws. Feel positive reinforcement that the port is secure with simple parts you can trust in a remote location.

This housing accepts ports from our DLM Port System to accommodate a selection of the best zoom, macro, and wide angle lenses for underwater use. Our custom optical grade acrylic domes components provide the color, clarity, and durability of glass at a fraction of the travel weight and cost.

Durability and corrosion free performance

Our white ABS-PC blend housing provides strength and corrosion free performance year with minimal maintenance. ABS-PC is lighter than aluminum for convenience during travel and less drag underwater. The specially formulated color deflects the sun to keep your camera running cooler, longer. Compared to black or clear housings, the light color provides superior contrast for enhanced view of the camera, LCD screen, and o-ring seal.

Made in USA

Ikelite products are designed, built and tested in the USA. We use locally sourced, top-grade materials. Our housings are built by hand and individually tested for fit and function. Every unit is water pressure tested to 200 feet (60m). We back our products with over 50 years of experience and the best reputation for service within the dive industry.

Compatibility

Differences in lens placement prevent newer a6100, a6300, a6400, and a6500 cameras from being used interchangeably in this housing. This housing only accommodates a6000 cameras.

This housing is only compatible with the Sony cameras as shipped by the manufacturer. Unless otherwise noted, this housing does not accommodate the use of add-on grips, battery grips, eyepieces, LCD covers, or other accessories.

Specifications

  • 200 ft (60m) depth rating
  • DLM Type A port mount
  • Controls for all camera functions except AF/MF/AEL switch lever and Diopter adjustment dial
  • Two 1/4-20 threaded tray mounts with 3” (76mm) spacing
  • Slightly negative buoyancy in fresh water
  • Actual buoyancy varies depending on choice of lens and port
  • 2.6 lbs (1195 g)
  • 7.25 x 5.5 x 6” (184 x 140 x 152 mm)
  • ABS-PC, acrylic, and acetal construction
  • 2 year limited warranty

In the Box

  • Housing
  • Rear O-Ring # 0110 (installed)
  • Front O-Ring # 0132.36 (installed)
  • .050” Hex Key # 0945.11
  • Silicone Lubricant 1cc Tube

Lens port sold separately; A compatible DLM lens port is required for waterproof operation.

Optional Accessories

Documentation

DLM Type A Port Chart

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