Blogs
Open Ocean: a not for profit NGO marine field station in the Red Sea

Providing services for universities, researchers, interns, schools, divers, volunteers and conservationists
Open Ocean was established in 2010 to provide a not for profit NGO field station in the Red Sea for academic facilities and divers in general. Founder Hans Lange could not have dreamt how well received his vision would be.
Things truly took off in 2012 when Hans joined forces with Pharaoh Dive Club and Roots Red Sea to establish a totally self-contained field station near El Quseir at their remote coastal desert outpost surrounded by a phenomenal array of marine habitats and an abundant natural resource to study.
The academic interest in the Research and Education opportunities coupled with the simplified logistics of being a complete package proved a great move for Open Ocean and the academic facilities that have been drawn to the field station.
At El Quseir the focus was on Volunteering with residential programmes providing opportunities to get involved in many aspects of life in rural Egypt, in various fields such as Environmental Conservation, Citizen Science Projects, and Local Community Interactive Relationships.
Open Ocean has welcomed numerous volunteers to the programme from all walks of life and all demographics.
Volunteers are very much hands on with whatever activity is running, including:
Environmental Conservation
Organising beach and reef clean ups; sorting of and collating data on the collected debris; appropriate recycling and disposal of the collections.
Community projects such as maintenance and refurbishment of local schools.
Providing conservation education sessions with practical events for the local children and environment groups.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Citizen Science Projects
There are various ongoing Citizen Science Projects running at Open Ocean and every visitor is encouraged to get involved during their stay. Volunteers take a variety of roles within these projects, collecting data directly through surveys or indirectly collating other participants’ data at the end of the day. If suitably qualified, they can also get involved with establishing and running their own projects.
There are various opportunities to get involved such as Turtle Watch or the Shark Trust‘s survey which are simply reporting your sightings from your dives through to full project developments such as Fern’s Reef and the Sea Grass Survey.
Fern’s Reef
In August 2016, Open Ocean established a virgin artificial reef with sterile substrate to monitor and research the colonisation of the new structure. The lead on the project was Fern and the resultant reef is known as Fern’s Reef.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
The structure required bringing in from the shore 500 pieces of fossilised coral bed, formed into a random shaped metre high barrier in a depth of 8 metres with a sand bed and a relatively good tidal flow.
On completion a photo telemetry image was produced to establish a 3D base model record. After just a short period of time, signs of emerging life were noted and after just 6 months there were numerous corals taking a foothold with numerous fish inhabiting different areas of the structure.
This is an ongoing subject of observation and study, one that every visitor takes great interest in as it is now a thriving young live reef. Those with a more scientific outlook also note the distinct changes in topology around the reef, generated by the tidal flow and sand substrate movements. The Open Ocean team are on hand to provide a guided view of the everchanging project.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Sea Grass Survey
The latest Citizen Science Project has been established by Open Ocean: a Sea Grass Survey. The team noticed that a patch of sea grass had begun to form a small meadow in the bay, which raise several questions for research and study. Why has it appeared? How has it seeded itself? What species of grass and algae are there? What aquatic life will make use of the new habitat? And so much more.
Two volunteers were assigned the task to establish the sea grass project; Gerald Taylor and his 13-year-old son, Finlay. Both had the prerequisite diving skills – Finlay in fact, despite his age, came to Roots with 100dives already under his belt.
A month-long exercise at Roots would give Finlay, who has an exceptionally keen interest in the underwater world, real life experience living and working in a foreign country, and an understanding of marine biology project work. Coupled with the project, Finlay worked with the marine biologists at Open Ocean carrying out fish and coral ID and measuring / monitoring techniques.
The initial objective of the project was to measure the perimeter / extremities of the sea grass within the bay and to gain an understanding of its shape, distribution and density.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Together Gerald and Finlay formulated by which they were measure the perimeter of the sea grass. They then undertook land-based measuring techniques using 50 meter transects and quadrats, with the full knowledge that stretching a tape underwater to a distance of nearly 50 meters would have its own complications. Armed with their method, Gerald and Finlay set out to map and record the area taking a fixed point location to set the datum.
If you would like to follow the process that they adopted and see how the project developed, you can read Gerald’s summary here.
Meanwhile, alongside the volunteering activities, the grassroots Research and Education activities at Open Ocean have a very impressive, ever growing academic client list with numerous top facilities making regular visitors for both field courses and research projects.
That’s due to Open Ocean’s aim to satisfy researchers’ needs and requirements by providing and ideally located field station with modern research facilities as well as advice and support in administrative and organisational matters.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
The Open Ocean Field Station offers direct access to the Red Sea at both the house reef, Abu Sauatir, and nearby dozens of reef sites, along with other local habitats of interest including mangroves, sea grass meadows and fossil reefs.
Find out more about what is available at Open Ocean Field Station with a short presentation here.
Research Opportunities
It’s not just the field study groups that frequent the field station; it’s an ideal location for individual study and research projects. here are a few examples of unique studies.
Micro Plastics
Lucy Deans took up a six month placement with Open Ocean in 2016 during which time she completed an amazing amount of conservation work with the assistance from the volunteers and staff. In addition to her paper on microplastics in the sea bed, she endlessly battled with debris from land and sea, collecting, sorting and collating data for her own and other projects.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Camera Drops
The vast majority of study of the oceans is coastal exploration of the shallow depths from the surface to 20m. Over the past few years the Glasgow University students having been completing summer project work and have been completing camera drops extending this study from 60m to 100m. It’s another example of the range of opportunities that are available from the Open Ocean Field Station.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
National Geographic Octopus Study
In 2019, the Open Ocean Field Station provided Eduardo Sampaio the perfect Red Sea for his continued National Geographic funded research on cephalopod behaviour, cognition and neuroscience. His team spent 10 weeks on location recording the incredible behavioural repertoire, camouflage capabilities and complex cognition. View Eduardo’s publication.
Survey and Marine ID Courses
In recent years there has been a steep increase in school participation at Open Ocean generally taking advantage of the Open Ocean Survey and Marine ID Courses giving the students insight into the spectacular aquatic environment. The courses can be conducted for snorkellers or divers.
There is a range of Open Ocean Marine ID Courses for all ages and levels, whether it is young children beginning their voyage of discovery or experienced marine enthusiasts.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
If you are looking for a new expedition base for your school with an educational background, view our Open Ocean Prospectus for schools here.
Meet the Team
The engine room of Open Ocean are the enthusiastic dedicated team who simply love to talk about the wonders of the marine environment, particularly the Red Sea at El Quseir.
Resident Marine Biologist marc leads the team at the station, ably supported by our Intern Tierra, who provides great support.
Alongside is Sammie who takes care of the volunteering activities and is liaison with the local community. Currently Sammie is working with Rose who is out volunteering while developing her diving skills and certifications. Rose has completed her RAID Rescue and is and is about to start the RAID Divemaster.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
They’re not alone though; our consultant Marine Biologist, Dr Deb with her 12 years of field courses at El Quseir, provides vastly experienced guidance and support.
If you are interested in coming out to be a part of the Open Ocean team, here is what just a couple of volunteers have to say:
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Blogs
Diving into the World’s Fastest Tidal Rapids

In the mystical waters just north of Vancouver, Canada lies a narrow channel called the Skookumchuck Narrows, or simply “The Skook.” It’s a hidden gem in the Salish Sea that boasts a unique spectacle – a tumultuous dance of tides and currents that draws adventurers and spectators from far and wide.
Imagine this: a channel so narrow and shallow that a single tide can unleash an astonishing 200 billion gallons of water, creating a tumultuous display of standing waves, whirlpools, and currents surging at 16 knots (18 mph or 30 kph). Such speeds may seem mild when driving a car, but the erratic water is a different ballgame. Skookumchuck Narrows is a contender for the title of the world’s fastest tidal rapids, rivaled only by Nakwakto Rapids further up the British Columbia coast.

All photos were captured with a Nikon Z6 in an Ikelite underwater housing with Sea & Sea YS-D3 Mark II strobes.
But there’s a twist – this aquatic battleground isn’t just for adrenaline seekers; The Skook is an oasis for life beneath the waves. April 2023 marked a rare convergence of perfect conditions: a celestial alignment allowing divers to witness The Skook in all its glory. And who better to guide this daring expedition than Porpoise Bay Charters, a family-run venture led by the seasoned Kal Helyar and Ann Beardsell?
Raging currents = an abundance of life
The allure lies not in the danger but in the vibrant marine ecosystem fueled by the relentless currents. Ocean currents act as nature’s turbochargers, transporting nutrients that transform places like Skookumchuck Narrows into underwater havens with colorful life thriving amidst the rocky terrain.
It’s important to debunk the myth that this is a reckless plunge into chaos. Diving The Skook is not about courting danger but choosing the right moment: at slack when the tide turns, the water experiences minimal movement, and the currents are a mere 4-5 knots. Picture this – a scuba diver slipping gracefully between tidal changes, maneuvering with precision as the water changes its course and gradually picks up speed. Timing is everything, and finding the rare dates when daylight piercing through the emerald-green water coincides with navigable water conditions is critical. April 2023 granted us a mere handful of these golden days of nature’s alignment for the first time in four years.
Entering the abyss
As our vessel, under the watchful eye of Captain Kal, approached the infamous Skookumchuck rapids, a tangible excitement filled the air. These cold-water adrenaline-filled dives are the scuba diving equivalent to scaling Everest. The unpredictability of The Skook, where currents can whisk you in any direction, demanded respectful caution from our experienced salty crew.
With a reassuring smile, Captain Kal dismissed the notion of a toilet bowl experience, where divers are pulled in a circular direction by the currents as if flushed down a toilet. He emphasized that they only dived during an easy drift in the current, which was hard to fathom possible in such treacherous waters. Approaching the narrowest section of the channel, where the current was fastest, Kal’s experienced eyes scanned for the telltale signs of slack tide. Tidal ripples slowed, and we entered the water in the few precious minutes within the next year when it was possible to witness Skookumchuck in all its sunny glory.
As we descended into the underwater world, a mysterious algal bloom cast a dark green haze, unveiling a breathtaking palette of colors below. Bright red and pink anemones, neon orange encrusting sponges, and deep purple ochre sea stars adorned the rocky canvas, showcasing nature’s artistic prowess.
Surrendering to the sea
Descending further, we felt the force of the tide, like a river yet to subside. Gripping onto rock holds and kicking into the current, we felt like underwater rock climbers. Adjusting our underwater camera settings and getting comfortable with the flow of the water, we marveled at the transformation of the underwater landscape. Slabs of rock, once pounded by the current, now hosted a vibrant community of marine life.
After a mesmerizing twenty minutes of relatively gentle water, the current intensified, signaling the roller coaster drop ahead. We surrendered to neutrality, letting the current guide us along the wall. Boulders and back eddies added a touch of unpredictability; with trust in our abilities and Captain Kal’s promise of a safe pickup, the thrill was exhilarating rather than menacing.

A group of invertebrates are protected from the fast current by a crevice; the rest of the rocks sandblasted clean by the fast water.
As the current ebbed, we found ourselves in a tranquil cove adorned with green sea urchins, marking the end of our underwater odyssey. The Skook had shown us its splendor: a delicate balance of chaos and life beneath the surface – leaving us with memories as vivid as the colors we witnessed.
About the Author
Nirupam Nigam is a dedicated underwater photographer and fisheries scientist. While growing up in Los Angeles, he fell in love with the ocean and pursued underwater photography in the local Channel Islands. He received degrees in Aquatic and Fisheries Science and General Biology, as well as a minor in Arctic Studies, at the University of Washington. After working as a fisheries observer on boats in the Bering Sea and North Pacific, Nirupam became the Editor-in-Chief of the Underwater Photography Guide and the President of Bluewater Photo – the world’s top underwater photo & video retailer. Check out more of his photography at www.photosfromthesea.com!
US-based divers: explore more close-by dive destinations with Bluewater Dive Travel here.
All photos: Nirupam Nigam
Blogs
Hunting Lionfish Safely and Responsibly in Curaçao

Curaçao, a picturesque island in the southern Caribbean, is not only renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture but also for its commitment to preserving its marine ecosystems. One of the key threats to these delicate ecosystems is the invasive lionfish. To combat this menace, responsible hunting practices are crucial.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to hunt lionfish safely and responsibly in Curaçao, including the use of pole spears (the only legal method in Curaçao). We will provide you with the top 10 safe hunting practices, including the use of a Zookeeper. We will also address what to do if you are stung by a lionfish and emphasize the importance of consulting with local experts before embarking on your lionfish hunting adventure.
Why Safe and Responsible Lionfish Hunting is Important
Lionfish (Pterois spp.) are native to the Indo-Pacific region but have become invasive predators in the Caribbean, including the waters surrounding Curaçao. Their voracious appetite for native fish species and rapid reproduction rates poses a severe threat to the delicate balance of marine ecosystems in the region. The introduction of lionfish has led to a decline in native fish populations and the degradation of coral reefs.
To counteract the lionfish invasion, responsible hunting practices are essential. Hunting lionfish can help control their population and protect the native marine life of Curaçao’s waters. However, it is imperative to follow safe and responsible hunting techniques to minimize the impact on the environment and ensure the safety of both divers and the marine ecosystem.
Understanding the Pole Spear
In Curaçao, the only legal method for hunting lionfish is using a pole spear. It’s important to note that a pole spear is distinct from other spearfishing equipment, such as a Hawaiian sling or a spear gun with a trigger mechanism. The use of Hawaiian slings or spear guns with triggers is illegal in Curaçao for lionfish hunting due to safety and conservation concerns.
A pole spear consists of a long, slender pole with a pointed tip, often made of stainless steel or fiberglass, designed for precision and accuracy. Unlike a trigger-based spear gun, a pole spear requires the diver to manually draw back on a rubber band then release towards the target, providing a more controlled and selective approach to hunting.
How to Hunt Lionfish Using a Pole Spear Responsibly
When using a pole spear to hunt lionfish, it’s crucial to do so responsibly to ensure the safety of both the diver and the marine environment. Here are some essential guidelines on how to hunt lionfish using a pole spear responsibly:
- Safety First: Always prioritize safety when diving and hunting. Ensure you have the necessary training and experience for hunting lionfish. Consider the Lionfish Scuba Dive Experience offered by Ocean Encounters. This opportunity allows participants to learn under the expert guidance of local scuba diving professionals.
- Check Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local regulations and restrictions related to lionfish hunting in Curaçao. Respect no-take zones and marine protected areas.
- Target Only Lionfish: Use your pole spear exclusively for lionfish hunting. Do not attempt to spear any other species, as this can harm the fragile ecosystem.
- Aim for Precision: Approach your target lionfish carefully and aim for a precise shot to minimize the risk of injuring other marine life or damaging the coral reef.
- Use a Zookeeper: A Zookeeper is a specialized container designed to safely store and transport lionfish after capture. It prevents the lionfish’s venomous spines from causing harm and keeps them secure during the dive.
- Respect Lionfish Anatomy: Target the head of the lionfish and stay away from its venomous spines. Aim for a clean and humane kill to minimize suffering.
- Avoid Overhunting: Do not overhunt lionfish in a single dive. Limit the number of lionfish you catch to what you can safely handle and process.
- Practice Good Buoyancy: Maintain excellent buoyancy control to avoid inadvertently damaging the reef or stirring up sediment, which can harm marine life.
- Dispose Responsibly: Once you’ve caught lionfish, carefully place them in your Zookeeper. Do not release them back into the water, as they are invasive and harmful to the ecosystem.
- Report Your Catch: If applicable, report your lionfish catch to local authorities or organizations involved in lionfish management to contribute to data collection efforts.
In the Unlikely Event of a Lionfish Sting
While lionfish stings are rare, it’s essential to know how to respond if you or someone you are diving with is stung. Lionfish have venomous spines that can cause pain, swelling, and even more severe reactions in some cases. Here’s how to respond to a lionfish sting:
- Signal for Help: Notify your diving buddy or group immediately if you are stung.
- Remove Spines: If the spines are still embedded in the skin, carefully remove them with tweezers or a clean, sterile tool. Be cautious not to break the spines, as this can release more venom.
- Clean the Wound: Rinse the affected area with warm water to help alleviate pain and reduce the risk of infection.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with pain and swelling. However, if you experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
- Seek Medical Help: If the pain and swelling worsen or if you have an allergic reaction to the venom, seek medical assistance immediately.
Consult Local Lionfish Experts
Before embarking on a lionfish hunting adventure in Curaçao, it’s crucial to consult with local and responsible dive shops or organizations dedicated to lionfish management, such as Lionfish Caribbean.
These experts can provide valuable insights, tips, and up-to-date information on how to hunt lionfish safely and responsibly, hunting locations, safety measures, and environmental conservation efforts.
Start Planning your Next Caribbean Adventure
Knowing how to hunt lionfish safely and responsibly in Curaçao is not just an exciting underwater activity but also a crucial step in protecting the island’s marine ecosystems. By using a pole spear and adhering to the top 10 safe hunting practices, including the use of a Zookeeper, you can contribute to the control of the invasive lionfish population while preserving the delicate balance of Curaçao’s underwater world.
Remember that safety should always be your top priority when diving and hunting lionfish. In the unlikely event of a lionfish sting, knowing how to respond can make all the difference. By consulting with local experts and following ethical and legal guidelines, you can enjoy a rewarding and responsible lionfish hunting experience while safeguarding the beauty of Curaçao’s marine environment for generations to come. Please always dive safely and responsibly, and together, we can make a positive impact on Curaçao’s underwater world while learning how to hunt lionfish effectively.
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