News
Oppa Gangga Style
In her latest article for Scubaverse.com, Janice Nigro gets her Gangga Style on when she checks out the diving that Gangga Island has to offer…
Sometimes you wake up from a good dream in a place that seems like you are still in the dream. Today was one of those days. I woke up in my own bungalow on an island called Gangga in North Sulawesi, Indonesia.
I am about two weeks into a so-called “swimabout”. No, I am not so clever to come up with this phrase myself. An acquaintance from a boat trip threw that term out there when I described the planned events for the next three months. It has been something I have thought about for the last seven years in Norway. Perhaps it is a way of resetting balance in the hours of sunlight in my life, so it is necessary.
My trip started with a 50.6 second time to lift off in the new Airbus A380. Amazing after several years of thinking about the “swimabout” and several months of planning, it only took 50.6 seconds to start. Of course it took another 33 hours to reach my final destination of Sorong, Indonesia, which is so far to the east that the people no longer look Indonesian, but rather are Papuans.
I traveled to Sorong to be on a liveaboard in Raja Ampat (another story) so to reach Gangga Island, I took an extremely long route. Gangga is another one of those places that doesn’t appear on most US travel itineraries, but it should. You can travel all the way here on Singapore Airlines and leave just as easily, which is important if you have ever traveled on domestic Indonesian flights. Since I had to fly from Sorong to Manado in North Sulawesi, I had two flights, one that stopped over in my favourite international airport, Makassar, which is always printed on your ticket as Ujung Pandang. Confusing. Even more confusing is that my flights were on two different airlines, which meant that I had to claim my baggage, recheck-in, and pay again for overweight baggage in Makassar. To give you an example of how much you have to just focus on the endpoint while traveling in Indonesia, in Sorong, I was allowed 20 kilos and was three kilos over at 2USD per kilo. In Makassar, I was only allowed 15 kilos but at the rate of 1.10USD per kilo. Essentially the same price. My bag made it, as did I to the international airport in Manado, and one thing I was glad to not have to do was fly Indonesian domestic flights further. They are jam packed with people and things…
I landed in Manado, with my bag, to a place so green and packed with palm trees and rain and fresh water rivers. The driver from the resort found me immediately, and we drove off. It was about a 45-minute car ride to the sea where a boat picked me up and then another 30 minutes to Gangga Island.
I could not find Gangga time on my iPhone, and if it existed, it would not be linked to GMT anyway. It is a safe place away from so-called civilization where the most you have to worry about are the falling coconuts and ants getting into your chocolate. Falling coconuts are a real hazard because the island is packed with coconut trees. In fact, one day about a meter in front of me a coconut dropped, bam, as if to awaken me suddenly from my dream.
Indonesians even on Gangga time still recognize different times of the day with different greetings in the same way that Italians do. In Italy, buon giorno is for good morning and at some point in the day before night but sometime after lunch it becomes buona sera. It is much the same in Indonesia, except that there are four greetings throughout the day. Like most languages there is good morning and good evening, but I have not quite mastered the transition between good afternoon, selamat siang, and good late afternoon, for lack of a better phrase, selamat sore. I am often missing that part of the day when the transition occurs anyway because I am, of course, usually under the water.
The second half of November seems to be a slow time for the Gangga Island Resort. So slow in fact that I have had my own personal dive guide, Paulus, for every dive, and I share a day boat with only six others who are all from German speaking countries. I have basically had a choice between speaking German or Indonesian. I took Indonesian. Two very different languages as one is grammar-rich and the other not, although word positions in Indonesian are backwards for native English speakers. It is all relative because if you would ask an Indonesian, he/she would say that English is backwards. After so many days, I can be at least polite and report my dive statistics in Indonesian.
Since the dive sites from Gangga Island all have Indonesian names, I am every day learning a couple of new, useful words in Indonesian, such as gray and banana, and east and west. You can mix these words together to get different sites around Gangga and Bankga Island, which is also nearby. So an added plus to keeping the dive log is that some Indonesian words will creep into your vocabulary, and now I can discuss the colour of a banana.
My guide Paulus is a local from an island nearby. It is a small village and his father fished (still fishes) every day to send his children all the way through university. It is somewhat humbling to meet such a person and to hear their life story-and in your own language of English. He has even built an artificial reef system with electricity running through it to stimulate hard coral growth. You can tell just by looking at the structures that he has a sense of humour. One of his additional talents is to play the guitar and sing. Not only does he play the guitar, but anything that will make a sound. So in between dives, we were treated to harmonies by the guys on the boat and they would take turns playing the guitar, accompanied by “drum beats” from the empty tanks, empty water carboys, or the boat. Wow, what a tough job interview is all I could think.
Paulus is a specialist it seems in finding really small critters everywhere. The type of creatures that you still need the dive guide when you look at your photos. I have seen Pontohi hippocampus (a type of pygmy seahorse that lives on the rocks) before but here I see one nearly every day. I am still not sure how he finds them because even when he shows it to me and I look away for a moment, I have lost it.
One of the most interesting parts of the dive sites around Gangga Island is the geography. The entire area has been more or less formed by lava. I don’t know how long ago it evolved as it has as there are currently no active volcanoes in the vicinity. The lava is sometimes big square blocks with beautiful soft corals growing out everywhere. On one dive, Sahaung Satu, the lava formed as a broad plateau or as the floor of a Greek temple, even with steps. You almost expect to see some fallen ancient statues. Instead, you will find a pile of baby white tip reef sharks. When I asked Paulus where the mother was, he told me, “At the supermarket. Why not?” Yes, probably, the white tip version.
One of my favourite creatures is the boxer crab. These crabs live under the coral rubble in a symbiotic relationship with two small anemones (OK, so there is that anemone theme/obsession again…). I have never witnessed a guide actually finding one so I can’t verify where they come from, but it is from somewhere under the rubble. There is a lot of rubble, so you can imagine that when they signal to me that they have found something and it’s a boxer crab, I am amazed. On an afternoon dive at Lakehe with no one else, I was treated to this small wonder of nature on a viewing all of my own.
The wonders of nature get even smaller. Microscopic. One day I was looking at a tiny red fur ball at Air Benua (Benua water). I could see that the fur ball somehow motored around with purpose, but it was impossible to see which end was driving the maneuvers. I took a photo and only then could I see some eyes but at the wrong end of the photo. In the afternoon at Lihaga, I saw a green blob and again only after I looked at the photo could I see the eyes, some antennae, and legs of the hairy green shrimp. You begin to better appreciate how life develops. One egg, one sperm and you become either a hairy red shrimp or a whale shark.
Just when you think you could be bored diving from a resort (not possible for me), they take you to a dive site like Efratha along Bangka Island. It is a sandy slope and a wall on one side of the island. Paulus loves to scan the sand for small creatures and easily coaxes mantis shrimp out of their holes. After an exhausting photo session over the sand, he brought me to a wall filled with cirque d’soleiling nudibranchs, a black Pontohi hippocampus that refused to look at me, and a giant black frogfish. At one point, he was pointing to a Halimeda ghost pipefish while looking for other creatures simultaneously.
Although I have been keeping a dive log as usual while I am here, it really should be a food log. I have been eating a lot of fish, which perhaps is a conflict of interest, but here it is so fresh and well, they often serve it with coconut milk… Meals are actually four courses and since I have lost my chocolate to the ants, I am especially interested each evening in dessert. My favourite has been steamed banana with coconut milk. Sure, it almost sounds like the best thing you could get to eat if you have lost all of your teeth, but even if you have all of your teeth, you are anxiously waiting for it to reappear on the menu. Before I set off on this adventure, it seemed logical to think that I could become smaller on a small island diving three times a day. But after several days in Gangga, if there is Gangga time, I now believe in Gangga weight…
There doesn’t seem to be even enough Gangga time in the day to do everything that I “have” to do. Dive, eat, nap, and watch the sunset. My bungalow is right by the sea however, so you can multi-task, as a big window in the bathroom allows you to take a shower and peak out at the sunset simultaneously. And when you think that you have not paid enough reverence to nature throughout the day, you still have the stars to admire after dinner and sometimes the staff will sing. One night three of us watched for shooting stars and over the course of an hour, we saw five!
So now if you meet someone and they say they are from Gangga Island, you can say, yes, I know it.
Transform Your Dive Experiences into Cinematic Masterpieces
NovoScuba has partnered with acclaimed underwater filmmaker Jeff Goodman to introduce the Underwater Moviemaker Course—a revolutionary program designed to equip divers with the skills to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an avid diver, or a photography enthusiast, this course offers the tools and expertise needed to create stunning underwater videos. From vibrant coral reefs to curious marine life, you’ll learn how to film, edit, and produce captivating underwater stories, all with expert guidance from a seasoned professional.
Jeff Goodman: A Legacy in Underwater Filmmaking
Jeff Goodman brings over 40 years of experience in underwater film production for television to this course. Reflecting on his career, Jeff said:
“Although technology has dramatically changed, the basics of underwater filming remain constant. This course covers crucial skills for producing great videos. Whether you’re creating professional broadcast films or high-quality hobby videos, the fundamental principles are the same.
A camera operator must master their equipment to capture those magical underwater moments effortlessly. But beyond technical know-how, underwater filmmaking is about having fun and enhancing your diving experiences. So, take your time, learn at your own pace, and enjoy this creative journey.”
About NovoScuba
Founded in 2023, NovoScuba is reshaping dive education with a comprehensive, digitally native platform. Offering cutting-edge training programs for divers at all levels, NovoScuba sets a new benchmark in the diving industry by combining innovation with accessibility.
With ISO-certified courses, a student subscription model, and multilingual support, NovoScuba ensures that dive education is inclusive and engaging. More than just a training provider, NovoScuba fosters a global community of divers committed to exploration, collaboration, and sustainability.
Join the NovoScuba Underwater Moviemaker Course Today!
Dive into the world of underwater filmmaking and start creating cinematic stories that inspire. Learn more about the course and enroll today at www.novoscuba.com/courses/underwater-moviemaker.
EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba
NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!
The diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.
NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.
A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission
NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.
NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.
Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration
NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.
Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.
NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.
Quality Training at a Great Price
NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.
Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity
At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.
Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success
NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.
Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload
Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.
Crossover Made Easy
For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.
Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership
NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:
- Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
- Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
- Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.
Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement
NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.
Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth
At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.
Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.
Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution
Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.
For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.
Nautilus UK are offering a 10% discount on the Seacraft GO! scooter until Christmas (or until 5 units are sold) due to a slightly better exchange rate. Nautilus UK say this is a not to be missed offer on a very low margin product and unlikely to be repeated.
The Seacraft GO! is a revolution in the segment of compact underwater scooters. Weighing only 9,7 kg, the GO! offers exceptional performance and power.
Apart from that, the new Seacraft model is based on modular Li-Ion batteries with a capacity of 582 Wh which may be split up into several segments, approved to be transported in hand luggage aboard a passenger plane! This is, why we call them “air travel-friendly” batteries, since they offer you even more flexibility than every other Seacraft scooter before.
This makes the GO! the perfect companion for recreational divers, freedivers and technical divers looking for a reliable backup unit.
You can find out more about the Seacraft GO! scooter on Nautilus UK’s website here.
Find your nearest Nautilus retailer here.
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