Connect with us
background

News

Cozumel Marine Park to close

Published

on

It has been announced that Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park is to be closed to the public at the beginning of October for an unknown length of time.

The Natural Protected Areas Commission (Conanp) will restrict access to much of the Southern part of the Park, which contains many of Cozumel’s most popular dive sites, from 7th October 2019.

The closure is believed to be an attempt to assess and prevent further damage to Cozumel’s coral reefs which have been in recent decline. Since 2018, the reef has been infected by a disease called Stony Coral Tissue Loss or SCTL, which first appeared off the coast of Florida in 2014.

The disease – believed to be caused by a bacterial infection – destroys the soft tissue of many species of hard corals, killing them within weeks or months of becoming infected.

Some reports also suggest that Cozumel’s reefs have been adversely affecting by widespread coral bleaching caused by an increase in pollution and rising water temperatures.

With cruise ships and waste from coastal hotels likely to exacerbate the problems, in closing part of the marine park to divers, it is hoped to raise awareness of the problems now facing reefs in Cozumel.

The dive sites that will be closed in Cozumel are all of the Palancar dive sites, Colombia, Punta Sur, El Cielo, and Maracaibo.

According to a report on www.divenewswire.com, dive sites unaffected by the closure include:

  • La Francesa
  • Delila
  • Cedral
  • Santa Rosa Wall
  • San Francisco
  • Puta Tunich
  • Yucab
  • Tormentos
  • C53 reck dive
  • Paradise reef.

From 7th October, 2019, naval vessels will enforce the closure of the area. Meanwhile, work continues behind the scenes to find a solution to both the issues facing the coral reefs and the effects of the closure on local diving and tourism operators.

Gear Reviews

GEAR REVIEW: JOBY SeaPal Underwater Housing for iPhone and Samsung Galaxy (Watch Video)

Published

on

JOBY SeaPal

In a video shot exclusively for Scubaverse.com, Jeff Goodman reviews the JOBY SeaPal underwater housing for iPhone and Samsung Galaxy phones.

Continue Reading

Blogs

Four opportunities to go pro in 2024 with Dive Friends Bonaire

Published

on

idc

Dive Friends teaches the Instructor Development Course (IDC) several times a year to students who are eager to share their passion for diving with the world.

Dive Friends is known for the personal approach throughout the course. Their in-house course director will lead the students through every essential step, mentoring them to achieve their fullest potential as a dive instructor.

Applications for the following IDC start dates are now open:

  • 12 April
  • 5 July,
  • 20 September
  • 29 November

Partnership with Casita Palma

If the student opts for the IDC-Deluxe or IDC-Supreme package, their accommodation will be arranged for them at Casita Palma. This small and quiet resort is within walking distance from Dive Friends Bonaire’s main dive shop location and has everything you need to relax after an intense day of IDC training. Breakfast is included, so the student will always be fuelled and ready for their day.

Contact Dive Friends Bonaire’s Course Director Eddy for more information: coursedirector@divefriendsbonaire.com.

Continue Reading

E-Newsletter Sign up!

Experience the Red Sea in May with Bella Eriny Liveaboard! As the weather warms up, there’s no better time to dive into the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea. Join us on Bella Eriny, your premier choice for Red Sea liveaboards, this May for an unforgettable underwater adventure. Explore vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs Enjoy comfortable accommodation in our spacious cabins Savor delicious meals prepared by our onboard chef Benefit from the expertise of our professional dive guides Visit our website for more information and to secure your spot: www.scubatravel.com/BellaEriny or call 01483 411590 More Less

Instagram Feed

Popular