#underwatervideo — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #underwatervideo, aggregated by home.social.
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Diver convinces a tiny octopus to trade a plastic cup for a shell in Pixar-worthy video
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Diver convinces a tiny octopus to trade a plastic cup for a shell in Pixar-worthy video
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Diver convinces a tiny octopus to trade a plastic cup for a shell in Pixar-worthy video
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Diver convinces a tiny octopus to trade a plastic cup for a shell in Pixar-worthy video
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Sardine Run and passed in perfect formation. One of those underwater moments that slows everything down.
https://scubahanknyc.com/2026/02/16/humpback-whales-sardine-run/
#SardineRun #HumpbackWhales #ScubaDiving #UnderwaterVideo #marinelife #whales
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Sardine Run and passed in perfect formation. One of those underwater moments that slows everything down.
https://scubahanknyc.com/2026/02/16/humpback-whales-sardine-run/
#SardineRun #HumpbackWhales #ScubaDiving #UnderwaterVideo #marinelife #whales
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Sardine Run and passed in perfect formation. One of those underwater moments that slows everything down.
https://scubahanknyc.com/2026/02/16/humpback-whales-sardine-run/
#SardineRun #HumpbackWhales #ScubaDiving #UnderwaterVideo #marinelife #whales
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Sardine Run and passed in perfect formation. One of those underwater moments that slows everything down.
https://scubahanknyc.com/2026/02/16/humpback-whales-sardine-run/
#SardineRun #HumpbackWhales #ScubaDiving #UnderwaterVideo #marinelife #whales
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White-Spotted Hermit Crab (Dardanus megistos) foraging on the reefs of Siladen, Indonesia.
https://scubahanknyc.com/2022/12/26/white-spotted-crab-feasting/
#hermitcrab #indonesia #underwatervideo #scubadiving #marinelife #nature
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White-Spotted Hermit Crab (Dardanus megistos) foraging on the reefs of Siladen, Indonesia.
https://scubahanknyc.com/2022/12/26/white-spotted-crab-feasting/
#hermitcrab #indonesia #underwatervideo #scubadiving #marinelife #nature
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White-Spotted Hermit Crab (Dardanus megistos) foraging on the reefs of Siladen, Indonesia.
https://scubahanknyc.com/2022/12/26/white-spotted-crab-feasting/
#hermitcrab #indonesia #underwatervideo #scubadiving #marinelife #nature
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White-Spotted Hermit Crab (Dardanus megistos) foraging on the reefs of Siladen, Indonesia.
https://scubahanknyc.com/2022/12/26/white-spotted-crab-feasting/
#hermitcrab #indonesia #underwatervideo #scubadiving #marinelife #nature
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White-Spotted Hermit Crab (Dardanus megistos) foraging on the reefs of Siladen, Indonesia.
https://scubahanknyc.com/2022/12/26/white-spotted-crab-feasting/
#hermitcrab #indonesia #underwatervideo #scubadiving #marinelife #nature
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Ever seen a nudibranch mate? 🌊🐌 I managed to capture footage of Chromodoris annae in action. The neon colors on these tiny sea slugs are absolutely unreal through the viewfinder.
Watch the full sequence here: https://scubahanknyc.com/2026/02/15/chromodoris-annae-mating-behavior/
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Last year, I took a road trip down to North Carolina to dive with sand tiger #sharks. Filmed over several days, so you’re seeing different sharks across multiple dives.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/U6KVmO1U524
📍 NC | 🎥 GH5 | 🤿 Atlantis Charters
#SandTigerShark #NorthCarolinaDiving #WreckDiving #SharkEncounter #UnderwaterVideo #ScubaDiving #OceanWildlife #MarineLife #SharkVideo #scubadiving #nature #wildlife
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Presented this #demo #reel last night at #NYUPS. 🐡🎥
It's a work in progress where I'm testing out a new FCP plugin called "Fast Transitions" from LenoFX. Check out the results here:
#FinalCutPro #LenoFX #UnderwaterVideo #video #photography #fediverse #ocean
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Here’s a quick 🎥 snapshot of what diving in Speyside, #Tobago feels like. 🇹🇹
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nS-6KX68I4I&t#Speyside #TobagoDiving #CaribbeanDiving #ReefLife #UnderwaterVideo #nature
#SeaTurtle #Stingray #ScubaLife -
Here’s a quick 🎥 snapshot of what diving in Speyside, #Tobago feels like. 🇹🇹
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nS-6KX68I4I&t#Speyside #TobagoDiving #CaribbeanDiving #ReefLife #UnderwaterVideo #nature
#SeaTurtle #Stingray #ScubaLife -
Here’s a quick 🎥 snapshot of what diving in Speyside, #Tobago feels like. 🇹🇹
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nS-6KX68I4I&t#Speyside #TobagoDiving #CaribbeanDiving #ReefLife #UnderwaterVideo #nature
#SeaTurtle #Stingray #ScubaLife -
Here’s a quick 🎥 snapshot of what diving in Speyside, #Tobago feels like. 🇹🇹
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nS-6KX68I4I&t#Speyside #TobagoDiving #CaribbeanDiving #ReefLife #UnderwaterVideo #nature
#SeaTurtle #Stingray #ScubaLife -
Here’s a quick 🎥 snapshot of what diving in Speyside, #Tobago feels like. 🇹🇹
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nS-6KX68I4I&t#Speyside #TobagoDiving #CaribbeanDiving #ReefLife #UnderwaterVideo #nature
#SeaTurtle #Stingray #ScubaLife -
NYUPS Is Back — Spiny Devilfish
On September 30, 2025, NYUPS (New York Underwater Photographic Society) – the imaging arm of Big Apple Divers – held its first meetup since the pandemic pause, filling the back room at Fred’s on Amsterdam Ave. Hosted by Larry C., Mike R., Adam S., and myself (Hank), it was standing-room only. Around ten presenters shared their underwater images. Most were stills. The energy was exactly what you’d hope for. People were excited to talk only about underwater photography and videography.
My screening: Spiny Devilfish Courtship (Dauin, Philippines)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QqCfP2QoVE
I presented a 2-minute short about Spiny Devilfish courtship. It was filmed in front of Atmosphere Dive Resort in Dauin, Negros Oriental, Philippines. It’s a quiet behavioral story – glances, approaches, rejection, persistence – ending in a tense, sandy flare-up. I shot these clips with a Gopro Hero 11
Gear: GoPro Hero 11 + Backscatter Action Cam Sharp Wide Lens
About NYUPS (and how to join in)
NYUPS is a NYC community for underwater shooters — monthly themed shares, friendly critique, and bite-sized talks. The next meeting is planned for late October 2025; the date will be posted on the NYUPS Facebook group.
Share a short video (≤2 min) or 5–10 photos and tell us what you want help with—color balance, macro focus, pacing, lighting… anything. Kindly follow the submission deadline so we can queue everything in advance.
Also, attendance is free. In appreciation for the venue, we ask each guests to order at least one food item and one drink.
#DiveClub #NewYorkUnderwaterPhotographicSociety #NYUPS #spinyDevilfish #UnderwaterVideo
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Majestic Giants of the Philippines: Whale Sharks in Oslob
In the coastal waters of Oslob, a giant emerges — the whale shark, the ocean’s gentle wanderer.
Oslob is a small coastal town in the Philippines. Fishermen lure young whale sharks close to shore by offering handfuls of small fish. These encounters have made the town world-famous. They give divers and snorkelers a rare chance to see the largest fish in the ocean up close.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/XKj6DR19rW4
Reaching lengths of up to 12 meters, whale sharks hold the title of the largest fish in the sea. Despite their massive size, they are filter feeders, living on plankton, tiny crustaceans, and small fish. When they feed, their cavernous mouths open wide. They draw in thousands of liters of water. This water passes through specialized gill rakers. This ingenious system allows them to extract even the tiniest morsels from the sea.
Each whale shark carries a distinctive pattern across its back and sides. The white spots and stripes form a natural fingerprint, unique to every individual. Researchers use these markings to identify and track them, building a global picture of their movements and migrations.
The practice of feeding whale sharks in Oslob draws them closer to shore than they might otherwise swim. For many visitors, this creates unforgettable encounters. It offers a chance to look into the eye of a giant. Visitors see their gills working in detail and understand their size from experience, not from a book. At the same time, these encounters raise important questions about tourism and conservation. How do humans interact with such extraordinary creatures?
Behind the Film
This short film was a project close to me because it was my first trip to the Philippines. I shot the original footage on a GoPro Hero 4 in 2015 during my dives in Oslob. Today, on International Whale Shark Day, I revisited the footage and edited the video in Final Cut Pro. The background music was composed in Logic Pro, and the narration was created using ElevenLabs’ text-to-speech feature.
#ecotourism #Nature #Photography #UnderwaterVideo #whaleShark #wildlife
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Shark Awareness Day: Documenting Ocean Health, One Shark at a Time
Today is Shark Awareness Day—a perfect opportunity to highlight the crucial role sharks play in our oceans.
Sharks are beautiful animals, and their presence signals a thriving ocean. If you see sharks on your dives, it’s usually a sign of a balanced, healthy ecosystem. As apex predators, sharks help regulate marine life populations. They keep coral reefs in check. Their role can’t be replaced by any other species.
https://youtu.be/-HPnkGzpTIM?si=xpdlVheg7uTSW-JT
Ironically, not seeing sharks can be more concerning than spotting them. Their absence may indicate overfishing or declining ocean health.
Today, many shark species face threats from overfishing, habitat destruction, and misinformation. Shark Awareness Day is a chance to appreciate these animals for what they really are—essential and worth protecting.
Check out the video clips below to see these amazing animals up close. Each sighting is a reminder that healthy oceans need sharks, and we need to do our part to protect them.
Bullhead Shark: Uniquely shaped and bottom-dwelling, these gentle sharks are rarely seen by divers.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tq0HwxTgKhw
https://youtu.be/sZ4_ZEqE0iI?si=RVo7E0r2-AZFyESG
Tiger Shark: Recognizable by their stripes, tiger sharks are powerful, curious predators that help keep ecosystems in balance.
Sand Tiger Shark: Despite their intimidating appearance, sand tiger sharks are generally calm around divers and are often seen cruising slowly near shipwrecks or reefs.
https://youtu.be/zMkxBF-5u7Y?si=oYUDidqtk21aMuv0
https://youtu.be/1V8MqnAVpVg?si=7QWDPVFAtJHPaTtC
Bull Shark: Known for their adaptability, bull sharks move between salt and freshwater and play a vital ecological role in both.
Sharks: A common sight around coral reefs, reef sharks are a sign of healthy reef systems and are important for maintaining balance.
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Beautiful 💙
🤿❤️👌
🎥 _OceanEducation on X
#Scuba #Diving #ScubaDiving #Underwater #UnderwaterVideo #TSN #TheScubaNews
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The Critter Capital of the Caribbean: Diving St. Vincent
Diving in St. Vincent is a haven for Caribbean critters! Its thriving reefs are teeming with marine life, making every dive an exciting hunt for hidden gems. Over a week of exploration, we encountered elusive orange and green frogfish, mesmerizing nudibranchs, and dazzling displays from squid and octopus.
With an incredible diversity of macro life, St. Vincent truly lives up to its reputation as the ‘Critter Capital of the Caribbean’!
I shot the footage using a Panasonic GH5 in a Nauticam underwater housing and edited it in Final Cut Pro. The music was composed by me.
#critterCapitalOfTheCaribbean #DiveStVincent #marineLife #Nature #ScubaDiving #seaLife #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife
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Seagrass Nomad: Octopus Discovers a Shipwreck Sanctuary
An octopus embarks on a captivating underwater odyssey off the coast of Statia, navigating the Caribbean’s vibrant reefs. Venturing from the protective embrace of seagrass meadows, this intelligent and graceful cephalopod embarks on a cautious exploration of its surroundings, ultimately reaching the intriguing remnants of a historic shipwreck.
Its journey is a captivating odyssey, a testament to the remarkable adaptability and intelligence of these extraordinary creatures.
#cephalopods #Nature #Octopus #ScubaDiving #shipwreck #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife
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Octopuses are highly intelligent creatures capable of solving puzzles, using tools, and even escaping enclosures. Their problem-solving skills are comparable to those of some vertebrates, making them one of the smartest invertebrates in the animal kingdom.
Octopuses have three hearts—two pump blood through their gills, while the third circulates it to the rest of the body. Their blood is blue due to hemocyanin, a copper-based molecule that helps them transport oxygen in cold, low-oxygen environments.
The blue-ringed octopus, despite being only the size of a golf ball, is one of the most venomous animals in the world. Its venom contains a neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin, which can cause paralysis and is potent enough to be fatal to humans. The bright blue rings serve as a warning signal when the octopus feels threatened.
https://youtu.be/oIBqex8ghXc?si=DrW_8M2gmAn750gk
Octopuses have specialized skin cells called chromatophores that allow them to change color, texture, and pattern almost instantly. This helps them blend into their surroundings, evade predators, or communicate with other octopuses.
https://scubahanknyc.com/2024/10/08/octopus-intelligence-camouflage-and-sometimes-deadly/
#BlueRingedOctopus #ecotourism #Nature #Octopus #Photography #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife
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Exploring the Diverse Underwater World of Mozambique
During a two-week diving adventure off the coast of Tofo Beach in Mozambique, I immersed myself in its vibrant underwater world almost every day. Over the course of about 22 dives, each descent revealed something new— from tiny reef dwellers to larger pelagic visitors. The marine biodiversity of Tofo Beach makes every dive feel distinct, offering moments that stay with you long after surfacing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ElbBKUS2r4
Here’s a clip of a diver observing the graceful movements of a jellyfish off the coast of Tofo Beach. These translucent drifters pulse gently through the water, their tentacles trailing like ribbons of light. Watching them up close is mesmerizing—an intimate glimpse into the fragile beauty and balance of ocean life.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-TFndojLMY
In this clip, a new diver practices deploying a surface marker buoy during a training dive off Tofo Beach, Mozambique. The sequence captures both focus and excitement as he refines this essential safety skill. Moments like these highlight the learning that continues long after certification—each dive reinforcing confidence, awareness, and respect for the underwater environment.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZJr0rQIzCo
The final clip features a diver encountering a sea salp—a translucent, chain-forming drifter that moves with quiet rhythm through the water. Its pulsing motion adds a dreamlike quality to the dive, a reminder of how much life exists beyond the reef. Moments like this reveal the extraordinary biodiversity found off Mozambique’s coast, where even the smallest creatures offer a glimpse into the ocean’s complexity.
Thanks to the dive guides at Liquid Dive Adventures in Mozambique.
I shot the above video with a Panasonic GH5 in a Nauticam underwater housing and wet wide angle lens. Here’s a link to my underwater camera set-up.
#Adventure #ecotourism #Jellyfish #Mozambique #Nature #scubaDivers #seaSalp #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife
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Why Do Lobsters Fight? The Territorial Behavior of Reef Lobsters Explained
Marine Life · Caribbean ReefHave you ever watched an older lobster shove a younger one away from a reef crevice and wondered why? It turns out this isn’t crustacean crankiness — it’s a vital survival strategy rooted in hierarchy, competition, and instinct.
https://videopress.com/embed/TjU1mnt4?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&autoPlay=true&loop=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true A protective lobster defends its reef from an inquisitive young intruderLet’s explore the fascinating reasons behind these territorial clashes in the underwater world of lobsters.
Territorial Nature of Lobsters
Lobsters are highly territorial animals. These ocean dwellers stake out their own space in the reef — used for feeding, mating, and shelter. When a larger, older lobster pushes a younger one away, it’s defending this valuable real estate. Holding a secure crevice means protection from predators and a reliable base for survival.
Resource Competition
In the wild, competition for food and shelter is relentless. Controlling a prime section of reef gives a lobster better access to food sources and a significantly higher chance of survival. By pushing away a younger rival, the older lobster is protecting its claim to these critical resources.
Establishing Social Hierarchy
Size, age, and strength define social standing among lobsters. Larger, older individuals claim the best reef locations, and this hierarchy actually reduces the frequency of serious conflict — younger lobsters learn to respect boundaries set by their elders, creating a surprisingly organized social order beneath the surface.
Mating Rights and Dominance
Territorial control often connects to reproductive success. The dominant individual — typically the one holding prime territory — is more likely to attract mates. This link between territory, dominance, and mating is a recurring theme across the animal kingdom, and lobsters are no exception.
A Natural and Essential Behavior
An older lobster pushing away a younger one is far from random aggression — it’s a natural mechanism that helps regulate population dynamics and ensures fair distribution of resources. Understanding these behaviors gives us a deeper appreciation of the complex, often unseen social structures that exist beneath the ocean’s surface.
Shot on a Panasonic GH5.
#lobster #marineLife #Nature #oceanEcology #reefEcosystem #ScubaDiving #Sealife #UnderwaterVideo -
Diving into the World of Whale Sharks off the Cebu Coast
https://youtu.be/NrVdBLHUnVc?si=TqZWDCA41XIIA8Yy
In the heart of the Philippines lies the picturesque island of Cebu, known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and the remarkable opportunity it offers to snorkel with the gentle giants of the ocean – whale sharks. With a sense of anticipation and awe, I embarked on a journey to experience an encounter that would leave an indelible mark on my memory.
Equipped with a mask, snorkel, camera, and a heart full of excitement, I boarded a boat along with a group of fellow adventure-seekers. As we set sail, the guides briefed us on the guidelines for responsible interaction with the whale sharks. The importance of maintaining a respectful distance, refraining from touching the creatures, and using biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem was emphasized.
The boat gently glided over the crystal-clear waters until we reached a spot the guides deemed suitable for encountering these gentle giants. As the boat anchored, the anticipation among the passengers was palpable.
Slipping into the water, I was immediately greeted by the sheer vastness of the underwater world. Schools of vibrant fish darted around the corals, creating a living tapestry of colors. And then, out of the blue abyss, a shadow emerged.
Whale sharks, the size of a bus, gracefully approached, their distinctive pattern of white spots and stripes adorning their massive bodies. Time seemed to stand still as these majestic creatures glided effortlessly, filtering plankton through their colossal mouths. The sheer magnitude of their presence was humbling, and a sense of reverence swept over me.
With my heart racing and breath held in awe, I cautiously swam alongside the gentle giants. The water around me seemed to shimmer with a magical quality, accentuating the surreal nature of the moment. As if aware of its role as an ambassador of the deep, the whale sharks moved with a serenity that belied its size.
Back on the boat, a sense of camaraderie filled the air as we shared our experiences. The guides spoke of the community’s vital role in protecting these creatures and the delicate marine ecosystem. The importance of sustainable tourism and preserving the natural habitats of these animals resonated deeply within all of us.
Snorkeling with whale sharks off the coast of Cebu was not just an adventure; it was a reminder of the profound beauty that exists beneath the waves and our responsibility to safeguard it for generations to come.
Latest Videos and Photos from the Logbook
123…146 Next Page #cebu #Nature #Philippines #seaLife #Sharks #snorkeling #UnderwaterPhotographs #UnderwaterVideo #whaleSharks #wildlife #wildlifeWednesday -
12 Prized Sea Slugs: A Macro Cinematography Guide
This short underwater macro film brings together 12 sea slugs and nudibranchs filmed on scuba dives in Indonesia, the Philippines, Fiji, and St. Vincent. In about two minutes, the video highlights the extraordinary color, texture, and form that make sea slugs such compelling subjects for underwater cinematography. From tiny leaf-like sacoglossans to boldly patterned nudibranchs, each clip was selected to show how much variety exists across the world’s best macro diving destinations. Use the video and species timestamps below to identify each sea slug featured in the film and explore where each subject was filmed.
The Indo-Pacific Epicenter
In biodiversity hotspots like Lembeh, Anilao, and the Visayas, the density of nudibranch species can feel endless on a single dive. Many of the Indo-Pacific clips in this film were shot on black-sand “muck” sites, using a tripod or carefully braced fin tips to keep the camera rock-steady at high magnification. Subjects like Costasiella kuroshimae often measure just a few millimeters, so small movements or surges can easily ruin a shot.
Caribbean & South Pacific Gems
The Caribbean offers a different palette of “macro gems.” St. Vincent, featured prominently at the 1:25 mark, is a prized destination for divers seeking unique sea slugs that aren’t found in the Pacific. Similarly, Fiji provides stunning reef backdrops that make macro subjects pop against the vibrant soft corals.
Macro Video Techniques Used in This Film
Most clips in this sea slug video were filmed with a dedicated macro lens, small apertures for extra depth of field, and dual video lights to bring out the true colors underwater. I favored manual focus and slow, controlled moves so the viewer can study the nudibranch’s rhinophores, gills, and texture without distraction. For especially tiny subjects, I locked the focus and gently rocked the housing until the critical details popped into focus in the viewfinder.
Latest Videos and Images From The Logbook
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Day 2 Diving Haddhunmathi Atoll
Another fun day of scuba diving logged in the books. Today I am pretty much adjusted to the new time zone and over jet lag.
We dived three sites – Pink Thila, Haleema Haa and Hithadhoo Corner. The first two dives were executed in the morning after breakfast and we were back by lunch time. After lunch, we rested for a bit and then executed the third dive of the day. All three dives were spectacular! I was memorized by the copious amounts of coral boomies that host tons of small and colorful fish.
Visibility was more than 100ft during the first two dives. For the third dive, we went to look for Manta Rays again. However, the weather changed a bit – visibility diminished and still no Manta Rays.
We will try again tomorrow for Mantas!
https://scubahanknyc.com/2022/09/10/first-day-diving-haddhunmathi-atoll/
#CoralReef #ecotourism #indianOcean #laamuAtoll #marineBiology #Nature #ScubaDiving #sixSensesResort #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife
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Ribbon Eels of Indonesia – Dive & Identification Guide
Encountering a ribbon eel (commonly the blue variant) gliding through coral rubble or peeking from a crevice is one of the most enchanting moments a macro diver can have in Indonesia. During a dive on a shallow reef slope, I paused mid-water column — hesitant to stir up the sand — and saw a slender snout slip quietly between coral rubble. That unexpected glance, that sudden flash of blue and yellow, became one of my most unforgettable “cool moments.”
Ribbon eels (often belonging to the species commonly called “blue ribbon eel”) are elongated, slender moray‑eel relatives known for their vibrant blue body and contrasting yellow dorsal fin (in the blue morph). Juveniles may appear black with a yellow stripe. Ribbon eels typically inhabit sandy crevices, rubble slopes, or coral rubble zones adjacent to reefs. Their long, ribbon‑like bodies allow them to slip partly into soft sediment or holes, with just the head and upper body exposed — perfect camouflage for ambushing small fish or crustaceans. They are elusive by nature, often retreating completely if disturbed, which makes sightings rare and exciting.
Understanding this behavior helps explain why slow, careful diving is key: sudden movements or fin kicks can cause sediment to cloud the water and scare the eel away. For divers, treat ribbon eels as shy reef cryptics — patient hovering and gentle movement increases the chance of observation.
In Indonesia’s coral reef zones — particularly around sandy slopes, rubble zones, and reef edges — ribbon eel sightings are most likely in shallow to moderate depths, roughly 5–20 metres. These habitats combine loose rubble or sand with nearby reef structure for shelter and hunting. Seasonal water conditions also influence visibility and ease of spotting cryptic creatures: periods of calm seas with moderate current often stir up prey, attracting feeding morays.
Early morning or late‑in‑dive “cleanup” dives can be especially effective, when smaller fish are active or nocturnal species start to settle. In many parts of Indonesia the dry season (when visibility tends to improve) can offer the clearest conditions, reducing sediment suspension and making subtle colors — like the blue of a ribbon eel — easier to spot.
Because ribbon eels are easily spooked, buoyancy control and gentle finning are vital. When hovering near rubble or sand, avoid direct fin contact with the bottom: use a frog kick or minimal fin strokes to limit sediment disturbance. Approach slowly from the side, not head-on, and allow the eel to become aware of your presence without sudden movement.
For photography: a wide-angle lens often works better than macro — ribbon eels are long and may not fully extend from their hideouts. Use strobes or external lights at low power to avoid overexposing the eel’s vivid blue and yellow colours, and aim at a slight angle to capture the body’s subtle curves and surroundings. Limit dive time spent hovering around one eel to avoid stressing it — especially if it retreats back into the rubble.
Are ribbon eels dangerous to divers or photographers?
Ribbon eels are relatively shy and non‑aggressive. They may retreat or flick their heads if disturbed, but they are not known to pose danger to divers. As with any marine life, it is best to observe without touching or chasing — that ensures both your safety and the animal’s comfort.
What is the typical depth range to find ribbon eels in Indonesia?Ribbon eels are commonly found on sandy or rubble slopes near reefs, at depths ranging from approximately 5 to 20 metres. These zones offer adequate light, prey availability, and cover — ideal for both eels and divers.
When is the best time of day or diving conditions to spot ribbon eels?Early morning dives or calm‑water periods often offer the best chance. Good visibility, low current, and minimal sediment in the water help make the subtle coloration of ribbon eels stand out. Dives over rubble or sand near reef edges, where small fish and crustaceans are active, increase the odds of finding a ribbon eel hunting or peeking out.
#Bali #colorful #ecoTourism #ecotourism #eels #Indonesia #marineBiology #Nature #RibbonEel #ScubaDiving #seaLife #tulamben #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife
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Nautilus Explorer – Revillagigedo Archipelago (Socorro)
I joined the team on the Nautilus Explorer for a dive trip to the Revillagigedo Archipelago off the coast of Mexico. The Revillagigedo Archipelago is also referred as the Socorro Islands. Linguistically challenge English speakers like to call the island chain “Socorro” which is the most popular island.
The Revillagigedo Archipelago is a collection of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean. The islands are located about 285 miles southwest of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It takes about 22 hours by liveaboard to travel to the islands.
The Archipelago consists of four islands – San Benedicto, Socorro, Roca Partida and Clarión. In 2016, the Revillagigedo Archipelago was designated as Unesco World Heritage Site and in 2017 Mexico declared it to be a marine reserve and national park.
Resting SharksScuba divers are attracted to the region because of the resident Pacific Mantas, Bait Balls, Whales, Dolphins and several species of Sharks.
And since it take about a day by liveaboard to reach the islands. Scuba diving the region is quite unique and thrilling.
Before heading to Socorro
In addition to owning a fleet of liveaboards designed for scuba divers, Nautilus Dive Adventures also owns a local dive shop located in the Cabo San Lucas marina. See Creatures offers a free check out dive before you board the liveaboard and they also provide local diving for a reasonable price.
I arrived to Cabo a few days before the Nautilus Explorer liveaboard departed for Socorro. So, I was able to sample a bit of local diving. We first headed to Cabo Pulmo National Park. Cabo Pulmo is about a 2-hour car ride north from Cabo San Lucas. See Creature picked up divers at our hotel and drove us to the dive boat. They have a partnership with a regional dive shop and that shop provided boat, guide, tanks and lunch. Scuba divers like to visit Cabo Pulmo due to the amount of schooling fish and Bull Sharks.
The next day, we took about an hour boat ride from the Cabo San Lucas Marina to dive Gordo Banks. Scuba divers are attracted to Gordo Banks due the opportunity to see schooling Hammerhead Sharks. These are deep dive at the edge of recreational limits. So, See Creatures requires divers to book one local dive before they venture out to Gordo Banks. The dives in Cabo Pulmo met the requirement.
Jellyfish
Unfortunately, on both dive sites visibility was extremely poor due to an incoming storm. So, we did not see any Bull or Hammerhead sharks. Since the waters are rich in plankton, we did see a lot of Jellyfish on both dives.
I’ll just have to go back for more diving and tableside guacamole from Captain Tony’s Bar & Grill. They make it under 3 minutes!
The Nautilus Explorer offers a free check-out dive via See Creatures for all liveaboard divers. This provides divers the opportunity to check their equipment and dial-in there weight for diving in colder water and thicker wetsuits. During this trip, I dived my 5mm Tux and my ordinary 7mm wetsuits. Water temperature varied in each island in the Revillagigedo Archipelago. Divers just need one wetsuit, I just like diving my tuxedo wetsuit and I don’t have to worry about airline weight requirements (at the moment).
Host Hotel
Marina Cabo San Lucas View From Tesoro Los Cabos Hotel Room BalconyMost divers using the Nautilus Explorer and other liveaboards arrive a day before the liveaboard departs and conveniently lodge at the Tesoro Los Cabos Hotel. The local dive shop, See Creatures is also located in the hotel, which makes transition from local diving to the liveaboard extremely effortless and comfortable.
It is recommend to arrive a day earlier mitigate any issues with baggage delays, forgotten personal items, and/or scuba equipment issues.
Nautilus Explorer
The Nautilus Explorer was launched in 2000. It is about 132 feet long, 13 en suite staterooms and suites. The ship holds 25 divers and crew of 10. Rare to liveaboards, the ship offers internet access at a small cost. However, connection is not guaranteed being so remote. But you can at minimum check email and do light web browsing if necessary. Overall, the liveaboard is well maintained and provides nearly everything a scuba diver will require for a week of diving.
Note: I traveled during Covid restrictions so normal service on board was modified. For example, only a limited amount of passengers were allow in enclosed areas of the ship. So, divers were sorted into two groups for dinning, which coordinated with boat dives. Also, all passengers were required to take a 2 PCR tests. One PCR test was taken before we departed from our home testing site and the second was taken several hours before we boarded the liveaboard. The Nautilus offer divers a full credit if a diver tested positive in Mexico. This was a great policy because many other operating liveaboards around the world do not offer this policy and divers would have to rely on personal travel insurance.
Diving Highlights
Dive Day 1
on the
Nautilus Explorer Liveaboard
Dolphins!
Dive Day 2
Shark Cleaning Station!
Dive Day 3
Mantas!
The Manta Trust has produced a great site which dives into the details of each species of Manta and Devil Rays.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CPjuAlNBhV3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Dive Day 4
Hamerhead
Sharks!
Dive Day 5
Surrounded
by Fish!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CPoxVfHhc5y
Final Thoughts
All though weather conditions were not great and visibility was low, I enjoyed the dive trip. The crew was fantastic and the food was great! I’ll have to just try again for better visibility! And I would definitely join the Nautilus team for another dive trip.
All of the underwater images were captured on a Panasonic GH5 in a Nauticam underwater housing with a Panasonic Lumix 14-42 lens.
#CaboSanLucas #MantaRays #Mexico #mexicoDivingLiveaboard #Nature #nautilusExplorerLiveaboard #nautilusExplorerReview #nautlisExplorerLiveaboardReview #revillagigedoArchipelago #ScubaDiving #Sharks #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife -
Black and White Underwater – Maldives
The underwater world is full of vibrant colors. As an underwater image-maker, sometimes we need to light our subject to bring out these exciting and rich colors. Occasionally, it is better to go back to basics and produce black & white images. Photographers might do this by shooting film, setting a digital camera to black & white, or converting the image in post.
As some of you might know, I am a member of a NYC dive club called the Big Apple Divers. (You can find out more about our dive club here.) Each month a group of underwater photographers and videographers gather to discuss underwater photography and share our images. Normally we meet at a local bar but due to the pandemic we are meeting by video conference.
This month I presented the video above.
Enjoy!
#BlackAndWhite #laamuAtoll #maldives #Nature #NYUPS #ScubaDiving #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife -
Scuba Diving between Cozumel and Playa de Carmen
When planning a trip to the Yucatan, the decision of scuba diving Cozumel vs Playa del Carmen is the first hurdle. Each destination offers a completely different underwater profile. Cozumel is the undisputed king of drift diving and vibrant coral walls, while Playa del Carmen serves as the gateway to the hauntingly beautiful Cenotes and high-adrenaline seasonal encounters with Bull Sharks.
The Impact of ‘Nortes’ on Your Dive Schedule
December is prime diving season, but it comes with a catch: the Nortes. These strong northern winds can shut down the island of Cozumel for days. If the Mexican authorities issue a port closure (Puerto Cerrado), no dive boats are allowed to leave the harbor. This is where staying on the mainland in Playa del Carmen becomes a massive tactical advantage.
Diver Intel: Always have a “Plan B.” During my stay, the ports were indeed restricted due to weather. Because I was based in Playa, I was able to pivot instantly to the freshwater systems. My previous dives at Cenotes Dos Ojos and El Pit highlighted why these are world-class alternatives—weather-proof, crystal clear, and visually stunning.Bull Shark Season: The Playa del Carmen Draw
Between November and March, the sandy plateaus off Playa del Carmen become a hub for female Bull Sharks (Carcharhinus leucas). These sharks are attracted to the area’s nutrient-rich waters before they head to estuaries to give birth. Diving with these apex predators at 80–90 feet is a masterclass in buoyancy and calm air consumption. For tips on how I handle my camera during these high-energy dives, take a look at my guide on capturing large marine life.
Choosing an Operator: Phantom Divers vs. Blue Life
The experience you have with the Bull Sharks depends heavily on the dive shop’s philosophy regarding interaction. I used two different operators to see the contrast first-hand.
Operator Methodology Cinematography Value Phantom Divers Attractant/Feeding High. The sharks are very close and active, allowing for incredible wide-angle and macro-detail shots. Blue Life Divers Natural Encounter Authentic. You observe the sharks from a distance as they cruise the sand. Ideal for those who prefer zero-impact diving.Cozumel’s Reef Health: A Brief Comparison
Despite the convenience of the mainland, Cozumel’s reefs like Palancar and Columbia are in a league of their own. The verticality and sheer size of the sponges are superior to most sites on the Playa side. If you are looking for the “classic” Caribbean reef experience, Cozumel is worth the ferry ride. However, for a middle ground, the reefs of Puerto Morelos also offer fantastic coral density with much less boat traffic.
Ultimately, the “best” side depends on your risk tolerance for weather and your desire for shark encounters. For me, the flexibility of Playa del Carmen wins in the winter months.
Here’s an image from a Cenote taken in December.
#CoralReef #cozumelScubaDiving #Nature #oceans #PanasonicGH5 #PlayaDelCarmen #ScubaDiver #ScubaDiving #Sea #underwaterPhotography #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife -
Scuba Diving between Cozumel and Playa de Carmen
Every time I plan a dive trip to the Caribbean side of Mexico, I struggle making the decision on which side I should use as a base. Depending on the time of year, each side offers compelling elements. The Cozumel side offers short boat rides to great dive sites and some dive resorts even allow divers to shore dive. However, if a weather system is approaching the island, Mexican officials will close the port and restrict diving which will kill your dive plans. That is also true for the Playa side. Fortunately, there are many Cenotes not far from Playa del Carmen which make a perfect backup plan.
This time I decided to lodge in Playa del Carmen. I decided to stay on the Playa side because between November and March female Bull Sharks inhabit coastal water about 80-90 ft. from the beach. The female Bull Sharks are in the area to feed on small fish before they give birth.
Since, I was visiting during December, I anticipated port closures due to weather. So, it was a quick and easy decision to abort ocean diving and head to the Cenotes and dive in freshwater.
The video above highlights health of the reefs and various fish I saw during my ocean dives. I was able to execute two dives on the Cozumel side and the rest on the Playa side. Visibility was not that great on some days but I was able to capture a few good moments.
I used two scuba diving operators: Phantom Divers and Blue Life Divers. Both shops are easy to work with and have a great staff. The major difference is that Phantom Divers will bring small snacks for the Bull Sharks and Blue Life Divers does not feed the sharks. My opinion is that if you want to get really close to the Bull Sharks, go with the shop that feeds them.
Here’s an underwater photo collage from various Cenotes taken in December.
#CoralReef #cozumelScubaDiving #Nature #oceans #PanasonicGH5 #PlayaDelCarmen #ScubaDiver #ScubaDiving #Sea #underwaterPhotography #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife
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Scuba Diving between Cozumel and Playa de Carmen
Every time I plan a dive trip to the Caribbean side of Mexico, I struggle making the decision on which side I should use as a base. Depending on the time of year, each side offers compelling elements. The Cozumel side offers short boat rides to great dive sites and some dive resorts even allow divers to shore dive. However, if a weather system is approaching the island, Mexican officials will close the port and restrict diving which will kill your dive plans. That is also true for the Playa side. Fortunately, there are many Cenotes not far from Playa del Carmen which make a perfect backup plan.
This time I decided to lodge in Playa del Carmen. I decided to stay on the Playa side because between November and March female Bull Sharks inhabit coastal water about 80-90 ft. from the beach. The female Bull Sharks are in the area to feed on small fish before they give birth.
Since, I was visiting during December, I anticipated port closures due to weather. So, it was a quick and easy decision to abort ocean diving and head to the Cenotes and dive in freshwater.
The video above highlights health of the reefs and various fish I saw during my ocean dives. I was able to execute two dives on the Cozumel side and the rest on the Playa side. Visibility was not that great on some days but I was able to capture a few good moments.
I used two scuba diving operators: Phantom Divers and Blue Life Divers. Both shops are easy to work with and have a great staff. The major difference is that Phantom Divers will bring small snacks for the Bull Sharks and Blue Life Divers does not feed the sharks. My opinion is that if you want to get really close to the Bull Sharks, go with the shop that feeds them.
Here’s an underwater photo collage from various Cenotes taken in December.
#CoralReef #cozumelScubaDiving #Nature #oceans #PanasonicGH5 #PlayaDelCarmen #ScubaDiver #ScubaDiving #Sea #underwaterPhotography #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife
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Scuba Diving between Cozumel and Playa de Carmen
Every time I plan a dive trip to the Caribbean side of Mexico, I struggle making the decision on which side I should use as a base. Depending on the time of year, each side offers compelling elements. The Cozumel side offers short boat rides to great dive sites and some dive resorts even allow divers to shore dive. However, if a weather system is approaching the island, Mexican officials will close the port and restrict diving which will kill your dive plans. That is also true for the Playa side. Fortunately, there are many Cenotes not far from Playa del Carmen which make a perfect backup plan.
This time I decided to lodge in Playa del Carmen. I decided to stay on the Playa side because between November and March female Bull Sharks inhabit coastal water about 80-90 ft. from the beach. The female Bull Sharks are in the area to feed on small fish before they give birth.
Since, I was visiting during December, I anticipated port closures due to weather. So, it was a quick and easy decision to abort ocean diving and head to the Cenotes and dive in freshwater.
The video above highlights health of the reefs and various fish I saw during my ocean dives. I was able to execute two dives on the Cozumel side and the rest on the Playa side. Visibility was not that great on some days but I was able to capture a few good moments.
I used two scuba diving operators: Phantom Divers and Blue Life Divers. Both shops are easy to work with and have a great staff. The major difference is that Phantom Divers will bring small snacks for the Bull Sharks and Blue Life Divers does not feed the sharks. My opinion is that if you want to get really close to the Bull Sharks, go with the shop that feeds them.
Here’s an underwater photo collage from various Cenotes taken in December.
#CoralReef #cozumelScubaDiving #Nature #oceans #PanasonicGH5 #PlayaDelCarmen #ScubaDiver #ScubaDiving #Sea #underwaterPhotography #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife
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Scuba Diving between Cozumel and Playa de Carmen
Every time I plan a dive trip to the Caribbean side of Mexico, I struggle making the decision on which side I should use as a base. Depending on the time of year, each side offers compelling elements. The Cozumel side offers short boat rides to great dive sites and some dive resorts even allow divers to shore dive. However, if a weather system is approaching the island, Mexican officials will close the port and restrict diving which will kill your dive plans. That is also true for the Playa side. Fortunately, there are many Cenotes not far from Playa del Carmen which make a perfect backup plan.
This time I decided to lodge in Playa del Carmen. I decided to stay on the Playa side because between November and March female Bull Sharks inhabit coastal water about 80-90 ft. from the beach. The female Bull Sharks are in the area to feed on small fish before they give birth.
Since, I was visiting during December, I anticipated port closures due to weather. So, it was a quick and easy decision to abort ocean diving and head to the Cenotes and dive in freshwater.
The video above highlights health of the reefs and various fish I saw during my ocean dives. I was able to execute two dives on the Cozumel side and the rest on the Playa side. Visibility was not that great on some days but I was able to capture a few good moments.
I used two scuba diving operators: Phantom Divers and Blue Life Divers. Both shops are easy to work with and have a great staff. The major difference is that Phantom Divers will bring small snacks for the Bull Sharks and Blue Life Divers does not feed the sharks. My opinion is that if you want to get really close to the Bull Sharks, go with the shop that feeds them.
Here’s an underwater photo collage from various Cenotes taken in December.
#CoralReef #cozumelScubaDiving #Nature #oceans #PanasonicGH5 #PlayaDelCarmen #ScubaDiver #ScubaDiving #Sea #underwaterPhotography #UnderwaterVideo #wildlife
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Celebrating 10k raised!!
We've just raised funds to deploy a live streaming camera at one of our favourite dive sites Rapid Bay which is home to the elusive leafy seadragon!
We cant wait to get this camera down and share it with you all 🎥
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Ending A Decade of Birthday Dives
Today is my birthday! I originally planned to be in the Philippines celebrating and scuba diving the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has altered my magnificent birthday dive schedule this year. And it has also ended a decade of consecutive fantastic birthday dives.
Spending time out of the water has allowed me to reflect on the good times and how fortunate I have been. About seven years ago, I picked up underwater photography and later videography.
Here are a few images that have brought back a few fond memories of phenomenal scuba diving.
Taking the Wreck Diver Specialty Course in Grenada
Entering the Shark Arena Nassau (Bahamas)
Navigating Shipwrecks in Grand Cayman
Exploring the Reefs in Barbados
Discovering the richness of Isla del Caño (Costa Rica)
Made it to another birthday cake. #DiveTravel #Memories #ScubaDiving #UnderwaterPhotographs #UnderwaterVideo #wreckDiving -
Night Scuba Diving: Tips, Videos & Nocturnal Reef Life
Why Night Diving Feels Creepy (But Isn’t)
Let’s be honest: diving into dark water in the middle of the ocean feels a little creepy. For many divers, the apprehension of low-light conditions is enough to keep them on the boat. But as a cinematographer, I’ve found that the reef’s true personality only emerges after the sun goes down. Once you witness a Moray Eel on a frantic hunt or a Spiny Lobster using your video lights as a tactical advantage, that “creepy” factor is quickly replaced by pure fascination. You won’t just be diving; you’ll be watching the reef’s night shift in action.
Night Dive Videos: Nocturnal Action Worldwide
I enjoy night dives on reefs filled with nocturnal activity. Night dives are unique experiences that I find incredibly intriguing. Reefs filled with marine life during the day are also filled with marine life at night. Typical daytime animals find resting places, while a new set of nocturnal marine animals emerges on the reef.
In the two underwater videos below, I saw an Eel hunting on the house reef. This occurred at the Divi Beach Resort in Bonaire. I also saw a Spiny Lobster in Honduras. The lobster was taking advantage of my video lights and eating tiny sea flies/lice. (Thanks to the guides at West End Divers.)
Many dive operators/shops take divers out as soon as the sun sets. I prefer to wait a few hours. This allows all underwater daytime animals to find resting places. It also allows nocturnal animals to slowly emerge.
I also enjoy a good dawn dive. During this time, nocturnal marine creatures are scrambling to find their last meal of the day. They are also looking for a final resting place for the morning. It’s an amazing experience to dive underwater in total darkness. Slowly, you watch the reef get brighter or more visible as the sun rises. I definitely recommend trying a dawn dive if a diver has apprehensions about night diving. But you have to wake up earlier to take advantage of this window.
Night dives along sandy bottoms can also offer unique opportunities to watch marine life. In the Bahamas, around the Exuma Islands, we observed this Channel Clinging Crab.
5 Essential Night Diving Safety Tips
- Try to dive the site during the day to find landmarks. This helps navigation tremendously at night. Learning the layout of a site helps reduce the chances of becoming disoriented.
- Bring a backup light if possible. Attach it to yourself, just in case it gets knocked away.
- Follow your dive plan and adhere to the buddy system. Communication with a buddy is not the same as during the day.
- Don’t shine your light on day animals.
- Find a good guide. Most of the time, they know where the fascinating creatures live.
FAQs
At what depth do night dives normally occur?Night dives generally take place at the same recreational depths as day dives. These depths are often between approximately 5 and 30 meters (15–100 feet). The exact depth depends on dive site conditions and the diver’s certification level.
Is night diving safe for newer divers?Night diving can be safe for divers with appropriate training and experience. It is particularly safe after a daytime dive at the same site. Proper preparation, clear communication, and familiarization with dive lights reduce risk in low visibility.
What marine life is commonly seen on night dives?Night dives often reveal nocturnal creatures. These include moray eels, crabs, shrimps, and cuttlefish. You also see sleeping fish tucked in coral and bioluminescent plankton. These behaviors are rarely visible on daytime dives.
Reviews: Dive Resorts, Liveaboards and Dive Shops
12 Next Page #NightDive #NightDiving #NightDivingTips #NocturnalCreatures #UnderwaterVideo