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BSAC welcomes its youngest ever National Diving Officer

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BSAC

BSAC  AGM MEETING AT ELLESMERE PORT. Board/COUNCIL MEMBERS OF BSAC .National Instructor Sophie Heptonstall has stepped into the role of National Diving Officer (NDO) following her success in the BSAC 2015 Election.

The 35-year-old, who has served on BSAC Council for the past six years officially took over the NDO helm from outgoing National Diving Officer Jeff Reed at BSAC’s recent AGM.

Sophie, who has been a member of BSAC for 16 years, is an active member of Hartford SAC and is well-known on the BSAC Instructor Training Scheme circuit. She has also spent time on BSAC’s National Diving Committee (NDC) and has worked as an Area Coach. A marketing professional, she brings business acumen alongside extensive knowledge of the full BSAC Diver Training Programme. She is both an open and closed circuit diver.

On her appointment as BSAC’s National Diving Officer, Sophie said she was looking forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead.

“Thank you to all BSAC members that voted. I am excited about taking on the role of NDO and look forward to encouraging existing members to develop their diving skills further and attracting new members into the BSAC.”

Sophie is the third female BSAC NDO and is the youngest BSAC member to take up the role.

Alongside Sophie, Edward Haynes has stepped into the post of Honorary Secretary, taking over from outgoing Hon.Sec, Sarah Jepson. Four new Council members have also been elected, with Dave Lock, Janos Suto, Ian Furness and David Brander joining the existing team.

“I’d like to extend a very warm welcome to Sophie as she takes up the vital role of National Diving Officer and to all our new Council Officers. BSAC is entering a new phase in its strategic development and it is great to have them all on board,” said BSAC Chair Eugene Farrell.

“I’d also like to thank our former National Diving Officer Jeff Reed, along with the outgoing Council Officers for their commitment, hard work and contribution to the growth and development of the UK’s biggest – and best – diving club.”

For more information about BSAC visit www.bsac.com.

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BTM Travel: Your Gateway to Unforgettable Dive Adventures

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dive travel

Who We Are

BTM Travel is a boutique dive travel agency based in Munich, Germany, led by a passionate team of seasoned diving professionals.

  • Marcel Wilpernig, our founder, has explored nearly every corner of the underwater world and brings over a decade of experience in the diving industry.
  • Tim De Deygere, our product manager, made the bold leap from a successful law career to follow his true passion—diving.
  • Simona Hlavova is the backbone of BTM Travel, ensuring smooth operations with her expertise in administration and sales.

While a significant portion of our clientele comes from Germany, our reach extends globally—from Bangladesh to California. BTM Travel is closely connected to Behind the Mask, an underwater videography network that inspires us to bring divers to the world’s most breathtaking ocean destinations.

dive travel


What We Do

BTM Travel specializes in group diving adventures and tailored big animal experiences:

  • Group Travel: We organize intimate trips to premier dive spots, led by expert photographers or wildlife guides for an unforgettable adventure. The vibe? Laid-back and adrenaline-filled.
  • Tailor-Made Trips: For seasoned divers, we craft bespoke itineraries, offering insider tips on where to go, when to go, and what to expect. Our expertise ensures realistic expectations and unforgettable experiences.

Our focus lies on big animal diving, delivering the thrill of encounters with marine giants. While we love macro and reef diving, we know our true strength lies in providing high-octane experiences for adventurers.


What Makes Us Different

We take a fresh look at traditional diving industry practices, challenging outdated habits to better serve modern-day customers.

  • Authenticity First: We only recommend destinations we trust, avoiding overselling places that don’t offer great value or quality.
  • Heartfelt Advice: Our honest approach resonates with clients, building lasting relationships and unforgettable journeys.

dive travel


Our Mission

Helping divers explore the places we love is not just our job—it’s our passion. Our goal is to remain small, authentic, and dedicated to delivering exceptional dive travel experiences.


Find Out More

For more information about itineraries, destinations, and bespoke dive adventures, contact BTM Travel:

Email: info@behind-the-mask.com

Call: +49 (0) 176 55771225

Website: www.behind-the-mask.com

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Dive into Adventure: Limited Space Available for January Socorro Liveaboard Trip with Oyster Diving

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socorro

Socorro Giant Mantas, Sharks and Dolphins – 8-16th January 2025

Oyster Diving is offering an unforgettable opportunity to experience one of the world’s most extraordinary dive destinations – Socorro Island. With only one male space left for this January’s liveaboard adventure, divers are invited to join an exclusive trip to explore the waters of Socorro, renowned for its remarkable marine life and incredible dive experiences.

Unmatched Diving in Socorro

Socorro is home to a unique population of giant oceanic mantas that actively seek interaction with divers and snorkelers, making it one of the best places in the world to encounter these majestic creatures. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – the waters surrounding Socorro are also teeming with marine life, including schooling hammerheads and silky sharks, over 10 other species of sharks, playful bottlenose dolphins that love to interact with divers, large schools of pelagic fish, and, during the season, humpback whales.

Luxury Aboard the Nautilus Belle Amie

Diving in such an extraordinary location is made even more special by the Nautilus Belle Amie. Launched in 2015, this modern, spacious liveaboard yacht is designed with divers in mind, ensuring comfort and luxury throughout the trip. The boat offers various suite options, including twin rooms and superior double suites, all with the ambiance of a boutique hotel. Divers will spend 8 days aboard the Belle Amie, with all meals, guided dives, and soft drinks included.

Pricing and Availability

This exclusive Socorro liveaboard trip is available for the following prices:

  • Twin Room (2 people sharing a Stateroom): £3360 per person
  • Superior Double Suite (2 people sharing): £3860 per person

Both prices include Socorro Island fees. A port fee of $35 is payable upon arrival.

Additional Costs:

  • Return economy flights: Approx. £1,000 – £1,300 per person (prices confirmed prior to booking)
  • One night hotel B&B accommodation before the liveaboard: Approx. £100 per person

Book Now

With only one spot left, this opportunity to explore Socorro’s spectacular underwater world is sure to fill up fast. Interested divers are encouraged to get in touch with Oyster Diving Holidays to secure their place today.

For more information and bookings, please contact:

Oyster Diving Holidays
Phone: 0800 699 0243
Email: info@oysterdiving.com

Don’t miss your chance to dive with mantas, sharks, dolphins, and humpbacks in one of the world’s most pristine marine environments!

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