News
SCOTSAC support lifeboat station campaign
A campaign to save a picturesque harbour’s lifeboat station has won the backing of divers who fear it could put their lives at risk.
More than 4,200 people have already backed a petition to save the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) service operated from St Abbs in Berwickshire from being moved four miles away to Eyemouth.
Now the Scottish Sub-Aqua Club (SCOTSAC)’s 1,300 members have been urged to support the fight. Chairman Edna Ewan warned it would mean a loss of local knowledge meaning it would take longer to respond to incidents in waters popular with divers.
Ms Ewan has written to RNLI chief executive Paul Bossier outlining her concern. There is also concern the charity’s review, which prompted the decision to close the station, was carried out without local consultation.
The organisation’s national diving officer Gordon Young said: “We received messages on our own Facebook from members asking if the club, as the national governing body for scuba diving in Scotland, had written to the RNLI chief executive requesting an overturn on his decision.
“Before that point we had wanted to keep out of it but then our board of directors began communicating with each other saying that it was wrong to take that stance and that we should speak up because we have 1,300 members in Scotland who dive down at St Abbs, which is without a doubt the busiest diving area in Britain.
“There have been lots of incidents there where the crew at St Abbs have been called out and without them there could have been lives lost.”
The campaign’s supporters included the broadcaster Monty Halls, The National Trust for Scotland, South Scotland MSP Paul Wheelhouse and Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk MP Calum Kerr.
The lifeboat crew thanked SCOTSAC for their support.
Crew committee member Euan Gibson said: “The RNLI has an opportunity here to change their minds.
“It is not a case of saving face, there is a chance here for them to reverse this decision and come up smelling of roses because they are getting a fair amount of heat.”
An RNLI spokesman said: “Research conducted by the British Sub-Aqua Club indicates that 70 per cent of diving incidents are potentially avoidable.
“The RNLI already educates sea users in order to prevent accidents and drownings through our community lifesaving teams who use comprehensive action plans to tackle specific issues in specific areas.
“We will continue this work in St Abbs, alongside the community, to provide a service that helps divers stay safe.”
“The process involved in the decision to close an RNLI station is a long, comprehensive and carefully considered one.”
Source: www.heraldscotland.com
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.
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.
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
News
Dive into Adventure: Limited Space Available for January Socorro Liveaboard Trip with Oyster Diving
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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