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.

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

Win A PADI Digital Underwater Photographer eLearning Specialty Course

padi elearning offer title

PADI is offering DIVE readers the chance to win one of three Digital Underwater Photographer (DUP) eLearning courses to get you on track for earning the full certification once lockdowns are lifted.

The DUP eLearning section (normally priced at £135) will teach you the basics of underwater photography in preparation for the two practical training scuba dives (not included*) required to complete the certification. The online training – which involves videos, audio, graphics, reading and short quizzes – takes approximately 12 hours to complete and access to an online version of the Digital Underwater Photographer Manual is included.

Once completed, the Digital Underwater Photographer specialty counts towards the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course and the PADI Master Scuba Diver rating. The full range of eLearning courses can be found a www.padi.com/courses

Answer the question below to enter the competition. Doing so unlocks the possibility of gaining five more chances to win by signing up to our newsletter**, visiting PADI’s course catalogue, liking a post on Facebook, following us on Instagram or visiting our YouTube Channel. The competition will close at midnight (GMT), 31 October.

NOTE: If you have previously entered one of our competitions you may be asked by the Gleam competition widget to confirm that you are the owner of the address.

Free PADI DUP Spec

*Additional fees apply for practical training, dives, dive equipment and logbook. Please contact a local PADI Dive Centre or Resort for further information or to book the certification dives. For more information about PADI’s eLearning programmes, visit www.padi.com/courses

**Our newsletter is completely free; we will not use your details for any other purpose without your express consent, and you can unsubscribe at any time without penalty.

 

Thailand has a well-deserved reputation for having some of the best dives sites and impressive marine life in the world. Tropical, care free islands with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters have attracted divers and travellers for decades – and it’s a great place to get scuba certified!

scuba diving calendar may whale shark

Thailand has an abundance of fringing reefs with shallow coral gardens which make for excellent training grounds while experiencing close encounters with some amazing sea creatures. There are numerous impressive diving regions in Thailand that offer a choice of professionally run dive centres with excellent facilities for beginners – here are 10 of our favourites…

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi tourism has developed around diving and there is no shortage of dive centres to choose from. Learning to dive in Koh Phi Phi gives you access to great dive sites which boast a wide variety of colourful corals and reef fish, as well as turtles and black-tip reef sharks. Koh Phi Phi’s numerous sheltered bays mean there are plenty of sites offering good visibility and calm, conditions – perfect for building your confidence underwater.

Learn more about Koh Phi Phi’s diving highlights.

Phi Phi Island Thailand

Koh Phangan

Known for its stunning scenery on land, the dive sites of Koh Phangan more than meet up to expectations too. You’ll find kaleidoscopic coral reefs that are bursting with colour and teeming with life. Located between the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao, Koh Phangan is an iconic Thai diving destination renowned for dive sites such as Sail Rock where whale shark sightings are a major draw card.

As a well-known hub for divers, there are a multitude of services available from accommodation through to dive centres – all of which offer the PADI Open Water Diver course for beginners who want to get certified in this phenomenal region.

Here’s everything you need to know about exploring Koh Phangan.

diving with whale sharks in the maldives

Koh Chang

Koh Chang has retained its traditional island vibe and is a more chilled out destination than some of the more renowned islands. Koh Chang Marine National Park has some really outstanding reefs at shallow depths, giving even beginner divers plenty of time to explore. It’s a good place to perfect your buoyancy control before progressing onto the more impressive places further up the list.

Koh Lipe

Located in one of Asia’s oldest marine national parks – Tarutao National Park. Koh Lipe is home to amazing reefs and a wide range of abundant marine life. The shallower sites around Koh Lipe offer little current and excellent visibility for those learning to dive. Once you’ve mastered your skills underwater, there are also sites closer to the edge of the national park where it’s possible to catch sight of whale sharks and manta rays.

Koh Lipe - Thailand - Topside - Island

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a diving mecca for beginners through to professionals and there is a wide range of dive services to accommodate divers who visit here. The name ‘Koh Tao’ literally translates to ‘Turtle Island’, and this is an island that’s surrounded by impressive marine life from its name sake turtles through to visiting whale sharks at Chumphon Pinnacle. Koh Tao’s crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Thailand and its numerous sheltered bays, make it a top-spot for learning to dive in Thailand

Learn more about the endless adventures on Koh Tao.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak has some pretty local reefs but the real reason Khao Lak is on the map is because it is the gateway to the Similan and Surin Islands which are visited by liveaboards. If you are planning a trip to these islands you’ll need to get certified before you leave and there are plenty of dive operators in Khao Lak who cater to those heading out on trips.

Some of the dive sites commonly found on liveaboard itineraries offer more challenging conditions so it’s important to let your operator know your experience level before heading out. For those who dive the Similan’s there are big rewards – stunning coral reefs, leopard sharks, turtles and large schools of fish.

Leopard Shark - Zebra Shark - Underwater

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is the closest point to one of Thailand’s most iconic marine parks – the Ang Thong Marine National Park. Undoubtedly beautiful above the water, the forests of hard and soft corals beneath the surface are no less amazing.

During the season, Koh Samui has generally calm conditions and the shallow dive sites make excellent underwater classrooms for learning and practicing skills. When you’re not working on your dive technique you’ll be amazed by the diversity of tropical reef life from cuttlefish and lionfish through to multi-coloured parrot fish and regal angelfish swimming by.

Learn more about the top dive sites in Koh Samui.

Koh Samui - Thailand - Blue Water - Tropical Island

Pattaya

Unlike many regions in Thailand which are seasonal, you can learn scuba diving in Pattaya all year round. If you live in Bangkok and want to make a short diving trip, or learn to dive without needing to take time off work, then Pattaya should be on your radar. It’s possible to make weekend breaks to Pattaya without flying, and there’s plenty to see when you get there! Diving around Pattaya offers a range of dive sites including a number of wrecks to explore.

As an established scuba diving destination, there are a range of professional dive centers and accommodation options in and around Pattaya.

Krabi

Krabi is a renowned hotspot for travellers, adventurers and outdoor pursuit enthusiasts. Not only can you trek and scale staggering limestone rock formations, this is an excellent place to pick up some underwater skills too. This impressive region of Thailand is home to over 200 species of fish and 80 species of reef building corals, with stingrays, cuttlefish and leopard sharks all quite common around Ao Nang. The calm, clear, protected waters make a great spot for beginners while advanced divers will find some exciting caverns and swim-throughs, particularly on the nearby islands like Koh Yawabon.

Cuttlefish - Diver

Phuket

Phuket has an excellent range of sites for beginners and there is an abundance of facilities for divers from dive resorts and dive centres through to local dive boat operators.  Phuket is also a well-situated base for trips to nearby islands, including the Similans, the Racha Islands and Phi Phi. If you are travelling with non-diving companions, Phuket is an ideal location with plenty of entertainment and things to do on land too.

Explore the top dive sites in Phuket.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a gateway location to some of Thailand’s best dive sites including the famous sites of Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, which are home to over 200 hard corals and 108 catalogued reef fish species. These two sites also have among the highest recorded number of whale shark sightings in the world, as well as regular sightings of leopard sharks and manta rays.

While the sites immediately around Koh Lanta are not nearly as impressive they provide excellent training dive sites for those who want to get certified. Once you’ve got your Open Water certificate you’ll be in the right place to explore some of Thailand’s best diving.

Are you feeling inspired to learn how to dive and explore Thailand underwater? Start your Open Water Diver eLearning course at home and locate a PADI dive shop in your chosen region.

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In October 2020, we’ll start accepting applications (and nominations) for new PADI® AmbassaDivers™. We’re looking for people who champion their local dive environment and actively share their passion for the underwater world.

Do any of the scenarios below describe you or someone you know? If so, you may be in the presence of a future AmbassaDiver:

  • Learning to scuba dive (or freedive) was a turning point in their life.
  • Whenever you hang out, the conversation inevitably turns to diving.
  • They can’t walk (or swim) by a piece of debris without picking it up.
  • Their social media feed is full of underwater adventures, marine life memes and conservation messages.

PADI AmbassaDiver FAQs

What information do I need to apply or nominate someone?

The application is a short, online survey. Here’s what you need to know:

  • There’s no minimum age, but we require an active social media presence. In many countries, the minimum age for a social media account is 13.
  • There is a field for certification level. If you are not a certified diver or freediver, simply write “not certified.”
  • Be prepared to list relevant achievements and experience, and (briefly) explain how you, or the person you’re nominating, will inspire others to try diving and become ocean stewards.

What if I’m not an instructor or a professional photographer?

We love looking at beautiful images from around the world (who doesn’t), but pretty photos alone aren’t enough to be a PADI AmbassaDiver. As the name suggests, we’re looking for people who are ambassadors for diving. An AmbassaDiver should inspire others to try diving, dive locally, and be a voice for the ocean.

A PADI Instructor who teaches a lot of students doesn’t automatically qualify to be an AmbassaDiver either. PADI Pros who aspire to become AmbassaDivers should make an exceptional effort to promote diving in their area and/or support conservation.

What if I’m not a certified diver?

You don’t have to be a certified diver or freediver to be a PADI AmbassaDiver; however, one of the questions on the application is, “how will you inspire others to try diving and become ocean stewards?” If you’re not already a diver or freediver, consider how you will answer this question.

If your social media followers are passionate about conservation, travel, and/or ocean sports, we’d love to introduce them (and you!) to scuba diving. In your application, tell us how you’ll encourage others to try diving once you’re certified.

How many social media followers do I need?

We look for applicants with a strong and active social media following, but there isn’t a minimum follower number to apply. We recognize a small but passionate group can be more influential than a large, disconnected one.

That said, saving the ocean will take billions of us in a united effort. So, if all other factors are equal, the size of an applicant’s active following may determine who gets selected.

Learn More About Our Criteria

When will PADI start accepting new AmbassaDiver applications/nominations?

The next application period begins in October 2020. Applications will be reviewed in October/November and new AmbassaDivers will be notified in December.

What’s the difference between a PADI Torchbearer and a PADI AmbassaDiver?

PADI Torchbearers are 100% focused on saving the ocean. They seek to bring about meaningful change and restore the balance between the oceans and humanity.

A PADI AmbassaDiver is passionate about ocean conservation, but it may not be their primary activity. For example, 2020 AmbassaDiver Alex Rendell started an educational program in Thailand to teach children about marine science, scuba diving and how to be an advocate for the environment.

What are the benefits of being a PADI AmbassaDiver?

  • Increased visibility and amplification of messages
  • Greater awareness of your programs and initiatives
  • The opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals (other AmbassaDivers)
  • New friendships with people around the world

Ready to apply or nominate someone?

APPLY NOW

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Simone Melchior Cousteau was the matriarch of scuba diving — but have you heard of her? Of course, you’ll recognize the name ‘Cousteau,’ as the perhaps the most famous one associated with diving, and that of Simone’s business partner and husband, Jacques-Yves Cousteau. But let’s set aside the godfather for scuba diving for just one moment. Instead, let’s dive into the criminally underreported life and legacy of Simone Cousteau, who died in 1990.

Simone Mechior Cousteau
Simone Melchior Cousteau (Courtesy Ocean Futures)

Simone Cousteau’s early life

Despite being born on the Mediterranean French coast in 1919, Simone and her family soon moved to Japan. Her father, Henri Melchior, took a job as a director with Air Liquide (France’s main producer of industrial gases at the time). This, surprisingly, was the key to the invention of the aqua lung and the scuba diving apparatus we know today.

In 1937, Simone met Jacques Cousteau — at the time a naval officer — at a cocktail party when she was 17 and he was 26. They married the same year and went on to have two children, both of whom were born on the kitchen table.

Invention of the aqua lung

In 1942, Simone’s father provided financing and the manufacturing expertise of Emile Gagnan at Air Liquide to build the aqua lung. Would the diving industry look as it does today if Simone had never met Jacques? We’ll never know, but things could have turned out quite differently had the stars not aligned.

In no time, the Cousteaus’ zest for aquatic exploration led them to purchase the Calypso, a ship fueled by the family jewels and fur that Simone sold to make the voyage possible. The Calypso set off in 1952 on its maiden voyage to the Red Sea. Simone was the only woman on board.

Life onboard the Calypso

Simone Melchior Cousteau
The Cousteaus underwater (Courtesy Ocean Futures)

By 1963, Simone had become the world’s first female aquanaut by living in Starfish House, an underwater habitat, alongside her newfound role as mother, healer, nurse and psychiatrist to the all-male crew for 40 years, earning her the nickname “La Bergère,” meaning “The Shepherdess.”

As the world’s first female underwater videographer — arguably the first of either gender — Simone ensured that each exploration achieved its objective, filming the award-winning underwater footage we now associate with Jacques Cousteau for The Silent World: A Story of Undersea Exploration and Adventure.

As Jacques described, “She was the happiest out of camera range, in the crow’s nest of Calypso, for example, scanning the sea for whales. Nothing would get by her.”

He continued, “She lives to spend hour after hour in the wind and the sun, watching, thinking, trying to unravel the mystery of the sea.”

The legacy of Simone Melchior Cousteau lives on, not only in the deep love affair each diver has with the ocean, but also as a voice for conservation of earth’s beauty and biodiversity.

As is all too often the case in history, whispers of inspirational female figures disappear among louder stories we tell about male heroes. Let that not be the case with Simone Melchior Cousteau.

Raja Ampat
has many names; Four Kings; the crown jewel of the Coral Triangle;
the underwater Serengeti; the end of the rainbow (okay, that one
was us), but no name can quite do justice to the diving in
Indonesia’s Raja Ampat. Home to the highest marine biodiversity on
earth, descending into the water is like entering an underwater
Eden, thick with a flurry of life and vibrant, healthy corals
(hence the rainbow). And whilst there are so many unforgettable
dive sites that pepper the archipelago, read on for a few of our
favourites.

Boo Windows – Boo Area, Misool

Boo islet looks rather lonely. Approach it by boat and you’ll
wonder what all the fuss is about – but dip below the waters and
you’ll see why. This iconic dive site owes its name to two swim
throughs that pierce the reef like giant windows. Aside from the
incredible topography (leaving many a diver to question how on
earth the above rock doesn’t collapse with such gaping holes), the
reef is carpeted with a rainbow display of soft corals that warrant
a whole day’s diving in themselves.

Level: Advanced

Depth: 3 – 30m

Current: Yes

Manta ray at Shadow Reef dive site Raja Ampat

Shadow Reef – Boo Area, Misool

South of Boo lies Shadow Reef, a submerged pinnacle frequented
by a large number of one of the ocean’s most graceful creatures
(discuss): the manta ray. Position yourself at one of the cleaning
stations and watch both oceanic and smaller reef manta rays glide
past alongside nursing white tip sharks, napoleon wrasse and
schools of pelagics.

Level: Open Water

Depth: 7m

Current: No

scuba diving Four Kings, Raja Ampat

Four Kings – Wayilbatan Area, Misool

Four Kings comprises four underwater pinnacles, three of which
are connected by a ridge. The shallowest pinnacle starts at seven
metres descending down a narrow gap (15 metres) to the other three
pinnacles. The dive site itself is a playground of colourful soft
corals, schooling barracuda, trevally, turtles… the list goes
on.

Level: Open Water

Depth: 7 – 30m

Current: No

Citrus Ridge – Dampier Strait

Picture all the colours of citrus. That’s Citrus Ridge. An
explosion of yellow, orange, pink, purple and green soft corals
drape the sloped reef, itself home to such a huge variety of marine
life it’s often affectionately referred to as an aquarium; from the
thousands of glassfish that dance over the corals to lurking
wobbegongs; whirlpools of barracuda, surgeonfish and batfish to
expertly hidden macro critters. This is one of the most beautiful
dive sites of Raja Ampat.

Level: Advanced

Depth: 10 – 30m

Current: Yes

Moray eel

Cape Kri – Dampier Strait

Located to the East of Kri Island, Cape Kri might just be the
most famous dive site in Raja Ampat (if not the world) due to its
mind boggling diversity – it has a record number of reef fish
species recorded in a single dive (374, incidentally). Ever. Think
white-tip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, moray eels, groupers,
tuna, turtles, trigger fish, napoleon wrasse, cuttlefish,
porcupinefish… you get the gist.

Level: Advanced

Depth: 5 – 30m

Current: Yes

turtle coral reef Indonesia

Blue Magic – Dampier Strait

Located in the blue ocean between Mioskon and Cape Kri, this
site is quite simply magic (see what we did there?). The underwater
pinnacle starts at seven metres, descending to around 30 metres.
It’s topped with a variety of corals (from sea fans to sponges,
soft to hard corals) and as you descend look out for huge schools
of barracuda, octopus and black tip, white tip and grey reef
sharks. But the best part lies in the cleaning station for oceanic
manta rays – grab a good spot and watch them glide inches from your
face.

Level: Advanced

Depth: 8 – 30m

Current: Yes

Want to know some of the other incredible dive sites
that dot the archipelago? Drop us an email, or
better yet, call us on +44 (0) 20 7978 0505 and discover the best
of the rest.

Picture the scene. It’s the Original Diving office Christmas
party, and several members of the team start an impromptu round of
the ‘Guess the Three-Letter Airport Code’ game. One of the interns
is overheard to say: ‘Wow, you lot really are travel nerds.’ Thank
you, Fenella – there is literally no greater compliment. You see,
travel nerdery (copyright new word) might not make us much fun at
parties but it’s how we know when the octopus mating season is in
Dumaguete, or your best chance of seeing the huge gatherings of
groupers in Fakarava South before spawning. In short, travel
nerdery is how we tailormake your Original Diving trips to
perfection.

But there’s a problem. At the moment, all that expertise is
going to seed. With no-one able to travel for the time being we’re
like world class athletes stuck at home not able to compete. There
are two solutions. First: the slow but steady rise in the number of
enquiries we’re seeing as clients plan for life after lockdown. And
the other? Simple – until the trickle of enquiries becomes a
torrent again we have tasked the team with designing a devilishly
difficult dive-related travel quiz.

So, drum roll please, welcome to the inaugural Original
Travel Quiz. With questions provided by teams from across the
business from Finance (guess the currency) to Flights (yes, those
three-letter airport codes) you can pit yourself against the true
travel experts. Or shamelessly steal the questions for when you’re
hosting your next virtual pub quiz. Good luck!

flag

The Questions

1. Rhincodon typus is the scientific name for which
species of large migratory fish that gives birth to live young?

2. If you were flying into diving hotspot Honiara, what country
would you be landing in?

3. The flag above is the national flag of which country?

4. What type of shell was used as the first known currency in
the Maldives?

5. The airport with the three-letter code ‘GPS’ serves an
archipelago world famous for diving. What is the archipelago
called?

6. Name two of the three official languages in the
Seychelles.

7. At which famous dive site was this photo (above and to the
right) taken?

8. If the time and date in the UK is 9am on 1st May, what is the
time and date in Papeete in French Polynesia?

9. ‘Wednesday are go’ is the anagram of which rare marine
creature found only in the cooler waters of southern Australia?

10. In which country was the famous underwater scene in James
Bond movie Thunderball filmed?

11. What is the common name for this tropical reef dweller
pictured above?

12. Which 419ft long ship (and world-famous wreck) sunk on 6th
October in 1941 in the Red Sea, later to be discovered by
Jacques-Yves Cousteau?

13. Name three of the seven species of marine turtle

14. What year was the first successful scuba dive with an
Aqua-lung completed, and by whom?

15. What is the largest number of fish species ever recorded on
one dive, at Cape Kri in Raja Ampat?

a) 374, b) 437, c) 743

The Answers:

1. The whale shark

2. The Solomon Islands

3. Palau

4. Cowrie shells

5. The Galapagos in Ecuador. The airport in question is Seymour
Airport, on the island of Baltra

6. English, French and Seselwa (Seychellois Creole)

7. Boo Windows in Misool, Raja Ampat, Indonesia

8. 10pm on the 30th April. French Polynesia has three time
zones, and Papeete (Tahiti Time) is GMT-10, then another hour to
factor in British Summer Time

9. Weedy seadragon

10. The Bahamas

11. Yellow boxfish (juvenile, to be precise)

12. SS Thistlegorm

13. Green, hawksbill, olive ridley, loggerhead, leatherback,
flatback and Kemp’s ridley

14. 1942, by Jacques-Yves Cousteau (and, for a bonus point, his
co-inventor Emile Gagnan)

15. 374 species

Scores on the Doors

0 – 5: Errrr… What were you actually doing in
geography lessons? Maybe listen in on the children’s home schooling
next time. And it might be time for a PADI refresher course.

6 – 10: You need to get out more. When legally
permissible, of course. Until then, swot up on the Original Diving
website.

11 – 15: Better, but you won’t be winning any
pub quizzes – virtual or otherwise – with a score like that.

16 – 19: Wow. Impressive. Fancy a job?

20: Your underwear appears to be on fire.