Spinner Dolphin Pictures, Behaviors, Video and Information (provided by the Wild Dolphin Foundation)
The Hawaiian name for dolphin is nai'a, and refers to most all dolphins found here. Hawaiian Spinner dolphins are shaped and colored somewhat differently from other species of spinner dolphins.
With 13 species of toothed dolphins (nai'a) swimming in the tepid waters of Hawaii, the most common are the Hawaiian spinner, spotted (kiko), bottlenose and rough-toothed dolphins. Other often seen members of the dolphin family - although termed as whales (kohola)- are pilot and false killer whales.
Dolphins in Hawaii are commonly termed as "porpoise" by local folks, especially fishermen, who use the word "dolphin" when referring to the dolphin fish, or mahi mahi.
So called for their high, spinning leaps, spinner dolphins are known as playful, eager bow-riders throughout much of their range.
In certain areas in Hawaii, spinner dolphins are seen on an almost daily basis. Probably since the islands have formed, the Hawaiian spinner dolphins have come into nearshore daytime habitats along the west coast of Oahu. We have traced their occurrence in our area back at least 800 years.
Below are descriptions of daytime behaviors the acrobatic spinners frequently engage in. Pictures and videos were taken during our dolphin encounter tours.
Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins Stenella longirostris "Nai'a"
Size: 1.7 to 2.2 m, 75 kg.
Males slightly larger than females
Calves at birth: 77 cm
45 to 65 sharp-pointed teeth on each side of upper and lower jaw
Food: Fish (small deep-ocean species) and squid
Habitat: Mainly offshore
Range: Tropical, subtropical and warm temperate world ocean
Status: Population unknown, but common in most parts of its range. Substantial declines have occurred in the eastern tropical Pacific
To see the enlarged pictures, please click on the desired picture. Double click to open movies.
Spins
Spinner dolphins are famous for their fantastic jumps high out of the water. They can leap into the air and make as many as 7 complete spins before diving back into the ocean! Few dolphins are known to leap as high as the Spinner and except occasionally for the Clymene dolphin, no others spin. Why Do Spinner Dolphins Spin?
Note: Click on the picture to the right to see good spin video >>
Head-Over-Tail
This aerial behavior is probably the most energetic. While the spin is more like a top, this leap is a series of mid-air somersaults.
Note: Click on the picture to the right to see head over video >>
Head Slaps
This very young spinner has already learned a way to get mom's attention. Repeated head slaps send an acoustical message. Notice the pinkish underside, normally white, this could mean excitement or the product of vigorous slapping!
Tail or Peduncle Slaps
Often seen before a change in the pods behavior. Most often, immediately after we see this behavior, the pod will change its traveling direction. Tail slap video and how it looks from underwater. The dolphin is excited about his "play toy!"
Nose-Outs
Often seen before going into a rest mode, or when they seem to have interest in us. These, although still classified as aerial behaviors are the least energy taxing.
Fluke-up Dive
Dives with the tail (flukes)raised in the air seem to signaldeep dives. This a borderline aerial behavior - as it still happens above the water line, but is not very active.
Playing Behavior
Spinners often make "play-toys" of objects intheir environment. In our area, the tradewinds blow lightweight plastic grocery bags into the ocean. The dolphins drape these over their fins and pass them back and forth.
Note: Click on the picture to the right to see dolphins play video >>
Echelon Swimming
Newborn calves can be seen swimming near their mothers head for about a week before they swim nearer to her dorsal fin. This is termed as echelon swimming. Dolphins carry their young inside their womb and gestation is about 12 months for a bottlenose. The baby emerges tail first, and will suckle from its mother for up to 4 years.
Breathing
Oceanic dolphins have evolved a method of breathing without surfacing from the water. They blow a bubble when near the water surface and then quickly draw breath in when the bubble forms a bridge between the blowhole and the air, through the water. Dolphins breathe through theirblowhole located at the top of their head. A dolphin may empty and refill its lungs in less than a fifth of second. As the dolphin breathes the air leaves the blowhole at speeds of over 100mph. To sleep, a dolphin must shut down only half of its brain, as its breathing is under voluntary control.
Social Behavior
Spinner dolphin's pectoral flippers are used to steer them through the water, and they also use them to stroke one another, increasing the social bond between them. Dolphin "friends" may swim along face to face touching flippers. Dolphins that appear to be closely bonded may swim in synchrony, twisting, turning and swimming in perfect harmony together.
Whistles
Spinner Dolphins can be very noisy under and above water, click here to hear for underwater video and sound of spinner dolphins vocalizing and a signature whistle.
Showing posts with label Hawaiian Islands. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hawaiian Islands. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Snorkeling Hawaii
Snorkeling is a safe, easy, and enjoyable way to explore the world beneath the waves and is open to all ages and skill levels, from children to grandparents. Snorkeling is a great activity for the whole family. Snorkeling is certainly the easiest and least expensive way to enjoy Hawaii's underwater paradise. All you need is a mask, snorkel and fins. Many of Hawaii's top dive sites, particularly the shallow sheltered bays are just as rewarding for snorkelers as they are for divers.
There are many boat operators that offer cruises to popular snorkeling locations on each of the islands and some companies that offer kayaking snorkel trips. If you have never snorkeled before, it is a good idea to seek some instruction before you start and seek some advice on where to go snorkeling for the first time. A great place to begin is in a swimming pool, either at home before coming to Hawaii or at the hotel pool once you arrive. This way you will get used the mask and to breathing through your snorkel in a safe, controlled and confined environment.
There are many boat operators that offer cruises to popular snorkeling locations on each of the islands and some companies that offer kayaking snorkel trips. If you have never snorkeled before, it is a good idea to seek some instruction before you start and seek some advice on where to go snorkeling for the first time. A great place to begin is in a swimming pool, either at home before coming to Hawaii or at the hotel pool once you arrive. This way you will get used the mask and to breathing through your snorkel in a safe, controlled and confined environment.
Hawaiian Dive Sites
Hawaii has year round warm waters and has been a popular scuba dive location for years offering some of the best dive sites in the world. The islands of Hawaii each have their own personalities and characteristics and due to Hawaii's geographical isolation they each offer unique and exciting dive sites, and an abundance of endemic marine life. Select an island for more information on the available dive sites and recommended skill level required to dive at these locations.
Oahu - offers an excellent blend of dive sites that range from offshore lava formations and grottoes to plane and shipwrecks, many with large schools of colorful fish and green sea turtles.
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Maui - most of Maui's dive sites are located off the west coast and offers excellent diving for all levels of divers, including Molokini, Black Rock and Five Caves.
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Hawaii - most of the diving on the Big Island is off the leeward coast, with some excellent locations stretched all along the coast. As the coast is sheltered from the trade winds by the large mountains conditions tend to glassy with visibility around 100ft plus.
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Kauai - the Garden Island is known for its rugged and pristine diving. During the winter months large swells make the north shore generally inaccessible for diving, but during summer months and on calm days the north shore has some excellent locations.
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Ni'ihau - located 17-miles off the southwestern coast of Kauai, is home gigantic sea arches, the endangered monk seal, large pelagic fish and other rare species of fish. Ni'ihau has some amazing dive locations but is generally recommended for intermediate to advanced divers.
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Lanai - the dive sites in Lanai are best known for their lava formations which not only house a large variety of marine life but make for some amazing light effects. The lava formations range from archways, ridges, tunnels, pinnacles.
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Molokai - Along the entire South side of the island of Molokai lies the longest barrier reef in Hawaii. Seldom visited by divers, this natural sanctuary offers some of the best diving in the islands.
Oahu - offers an excellent blend of dive sites that range from offshore lava formations and grottoes to plane and shipwrecks, many with large schools of colorful fish and green sea turtles.
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Maui - most of Maui's dive sites are located off the west coast and offers excellent diving for all levels of divers, including Molokini, Black Rock and Five Caves.
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Hawaii - most of the diving on the Big Island is off the leeward coast, with some excellent locations stretched all along the coast. As the coast is sheltered from the trade winds by the large mountains conditions tend to glassy with visibility around 100ft plus.
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Kauai - the Garden Island is known for its rugged and pristine diving. During the winter months large swells make the north shore generally inaccessible for diving, but during summer months and on calm days the north shore has some excellent locations.
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Ni'ihau - located 17-miles off the southwestern coast of Kauai, is home gigantic sea arches, the endangered monk seal, large pelagic fish and other rare species of fish. Ni'ihau has some amazing dive locations but is generally recommended for intermediate to advanced divers.
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Lanai - the dive sites in Lanai are best known for their lava formations which not only house a large variety of marine life but make for some amazing light effects. The lava formations range from archways, ridges, tunnels, pinnacles.
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Molokai - Along the entire South side of the island of Molokai lies the longest barrier reef in Hawaii. Seldom visited by divers, this natural sanctuary offers some of the best diving in the islands.
HawaiiScubaDiving.com
Check out HawaiiScubaDiving.com your complete one-source guide to diving in Hawaii, including dive companies, dive sites and everything else you want to know about diving in Hawaii. If you are looking to find a dive buddy, want to post a dive experience or have dive gear to sell, visit our community page.
The Hawaiian island chain is made up of 132 islands, though we generally only think of the eight main islands, Ni'ihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, Kahoolawe and Hawaii. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and located over 2400 miles from the nearest continent has created a unique underwater environment, in fact over 25% of marine is endemic to Hawaii.
The four most visited islands are Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii, they each have their own unique characteristics and dive locations. Lanai, Molokai and Ni'ihau are dived less frequently and offer some unique dives and marine life, although generally recommended for intermediate to advanced divers. If you are interested in diving off Kahoolawe you will need to charter a dive boat.
When you are not beneath the waves there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, why not try skydiving, visit a luau, go to the world's most active volcano or kick back and relax on a nice secluded beach. Visit our activity page for some suggestions of activities to participate when you are not diving and to arrange a lei greeting for when you arrive into the islands.
The Hawaiian island chain is made up of 132 islands, though we generally only think of the eight main islands, Ni'ihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, Kahoolawe and Hawaii. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and located over 2400 miles from the nearest continent has created a unique underwater environment, in fact over 25% of marine is endemic to Hawaii.
The four most visited islands are Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii, they each have their own unique characteristics and dive locations. Lanai, Molokai and Ni'ihau are dived less frequently and offer some unique dives and marine life, although generally recommended for intermediate to advanced divers. If you are interested in diving off Kahoolawe you will need to charter a dive boat.
When you are not beneath the waves there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, why not try skydiving, visit a luau, go to the world's most active volcano or kick back and relax on a nice secluded beach. Visit our activity page for some suggestions of activities to participate when you are not diving and to arrange a lei greeting for when you arrive into the islands.
Friday, February 22, 2008
UP COMING FIELD STUDIES
By Leda A. Cunningham, Executive Director
Greetings from REEF HQ! Conservation science is in sharp focus here at REEF, from an expanded Grouper Moon Project to new uses of REEF data in the Channel Islands. REEF is making giant strides in the Florida Keys community with a successful For the Love of the Sea benefit event, upcoming citizen science panel discussions and the recognition of two invaluable volunteers by a prominent community foundation. If you're looking for travel opportunities, consider jumping on one of the 4 spots just released on the Turks and Caicos Field Survey, April 19-26, or joining the Sea of Cortez Field Survey October 5-12. Educators can apply to join these or other REEF Field Survey teams through a special scholarship. Please read on . . .
Greetings from REEF HQ! Conservation science is in sharp focus here at REEF, from an expanded Grouper Moon Project to new uses of REEF data in the Channel Islands. REEF is making giant strides in the Florida Keys community with a successful For the Love of the Sea benefit event, upcoming citizen science panel discussions and the recognition of two invaluable volunteers by a prominent community foundation. If you're looking for travel opportunities, consider jumping on one of the 4 spots just released on the Turks and Caicos Field Survey, April 19-26, or joining the Sea of Cortez Field Survey October 5-12. Educators can apply to join these or other REEF Field Survey teams through a special scholarship. Please read on . . .
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Hawaii's Birds
Hawaii's Birds
`Akialoa
One of the birds whose song is no longer heard in the forests of Kaua`i is the Kaua`i `akialoa. While considered numerous in the 1890s, the population started declining soon thereafter. Despite intensive searches and rumors that the Kaua`i `akialoa may still persist, no confirmed sightings have been made since 1965. Some naturalists retain hope that survivors may still exist in remote tracts of intact native forest.
Threats:
The `akialoa's habit of frequenting forest edges and low elevations may have exposed them to introduced diseases, starting their decline toward extinction.
Hawaiian Hawk ('io)
To ancient Hawaiians, the 'io was a royal figure: strong and aggressive, but also graceful and stately, flying silently high above the earth. The Hawaiian saying "kaha ka 'io i ka malie" translates as "the hawk stands out in the calm skies," and is used to denote admiration for a person who stands out in a crowd because of their appearance or charisma. The palace of the Hawaiian monarchy in Honolulu was named 'Iolani, "Exalted Hawk," which reflects this long-standing symbolism.
Survival:
The 'io has been able to persist because it can thrive in a variety of habitats. It has learned to hunt the rodents that have been introduced into the ecosystem, thus augmenting its ancient diet of forest birds. As a top predator, the presence of 'io in the forests of Kona is also an indication that the system which supports it is still relatively intact. In ecological systems, when the underpinnings are damaged, the top predators are often the first to be affected. In the forests of Kapu'a in South Kona, 'io still build their nests in strong 'ōhi'a trees, calling out their existence for all to hear.
Kaua`i Thrush (Puaiohi)
The puaiohi, or small Kaua`i thrush, is found only on the island of Kaua`i. Listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the state Division of Forestry and Wildlife, the puaiohi is considered to be critically vulnerable to global extinction. It is restricted to the high elevation `ōhi`a forest in the Alaka`i Wilderness. Two decades ago, the Hawai`i Forest Bird Survey estimated the population at merely two to three dozen.
Threats:
The following must be controlled if the puaiohi is to survive:
Spread of alien plants into the Alaka`i Wilderness
Proliferation of goats and pigs
Predation by small mammals such as rats
Maui Parrotbill (kikekoa)
The Maui parrotbill is one of Hawaii's rarest birds. Living in the remote mountains of East Maui, it has a rich olive green body with a yellow chest. The head, with a bright yellow band just above the eye, is masked in dark olive. The most distinctive feature of the bird is its strong, hooked parrot-like bill, used for vigorous prying of chunks of koa bark, or snapping straight through strong twigs of understory shrubs in search of its major food: native beetles boring through the wood. The force of the jaws working the bill is enormous relative to the "songbird" size of the Maui parrotbill, and sometimes you can hear the crunching and snapping of the twigs and branches as the bird works its way through the understory.
Threats:
The Maui parrotbill's survival is threatened by:
habitat destruction by pigs
introduced predators, especially rats
avian diseases spread by mosquitoes
Today, while the parrotbill is restricted to the wet forests of East Maui, it seems to be holding its own, benefiting from the healthy regrowth of understory shrubs following a decade of feral pig control in Waikamoi and adjacent watershed lands.
`O`u
`O`u is one of Hawai'i's rarest birds. It once inhabited the islands of Kaua`i, O`ahu, Moloka`i, Lana`i, Maui, and Hawai`i. Today, it can only be found on the islands of Kaua`i and Hawai`i, where it resides in the upper canopy of `ohi`a forests. On Kaua`i, the few remaining individuals live at the 3-5,000 foot elevation in the Alaka`i Wilderness.
Threats:
Survival of the `o`u is threatened by:
Habitat destruction
Introduced predators
Avian diseases, such as malaria
Pueo
The Pueo and the Hawaiian Hawk are the only two extant native birds of prey native to the Hawaiian Islands. The pueo is a subspecies of the North American short-eared owl, and is considered by many scientists to be a relatively recent natural arrival to Hawai'i.it is celebrated as an `aumakua (ancestral spirit) by many Hawaiians.
`Akialoa
One of the birds whose song is no longer heard in the forests of Kaua`i is the Kaua`i `akialoa. While considered numerous in the 1890s, the population started declining soon thereafter. Despite intensive searches and rumors that the Kaua`i `akialoa may still persist, no confirmed sightings have been made since 1965. Some naturalists retain hope that survivors may still exist in remote tracts of intact native forest.
Threats:
The `akialoa's habit of frequenting forest edges and low elevations may have exposed them to introduced diseases, starting their decline toward extinction.
Hawaiian Hawk ('io)
To ancient Hawaiians, the 'io was a royal figure: strong and aggressive, but also graceful and stately, flying silently high above the earth. The Hawaiian saying "kaha ka 'io i ka malie" translates as "the hawk stands out in the calm skies," and is used to denote admiration for a person who stands out in a crowd because of their appearance or charisma. The palace of the Hawaiian monarchy in Honolulu was named 'Iolani, "Exalted Hawk," which reflects this long-standing symbolism.
Survival:
The 'io has been able to persist because it can thrive in a variety of habitats. It has learned to hunt the rodents that have been introduced into the ecosystem, thus augmenting its ancient diet of forest birds. As a top predator, the presence of 'io in the forests of Kona is also an indication that the system which supports it is still relatively intact. In ecological systems, when the underpinnings are damaged, the top predators are often the first to be affected. In the forests of Kapu'a in South Kona, 'io still build their nests in strong 'ōhi'a trees, calling out their existence for all to hear.
Kaua`i Thrush (Puaiohi)
The puaiohi, or small Kaua`i thrush, is found only on the island of Kaua`i. Listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the state Division of Forestry and Wildlife, the puaiohi is considered to be critically vulnerable to global extinction. It is restricted to the high elevation `ōhi`a forest in the Alaka`i Wilderness. Two decades ago, the Hawai`i Forest Bird Survey estimated the population at merely two to three dozen.
Threats:
The following must be controlled if the puaiohi is to survive:
Spread of alien plants into the Alaka`i Wilderness
Proliferation of goats and pigs
Predation by small mammals such as rats
Maui Parrotbill (kikekoa)
The Maui parrotbill is one of Hawaii's rarest birds. Living in the remote mountains of East Maui, it has a rich olive green body with a yellow chest. The head, with a bright yellow band just above the eye, is masked in dark olive. The most distinctive feature of the bird is its strong, hooked parrot-like bill, used for vigorous prying of chunks of koa bark, or snapping straight through strong twigs of understory shrubs in search of its major food: native beetles boring through the wood. The force of the jaws working the bill is enormous relative to the "songbird" size of the Maui parrotbill, and sometimes you can hear the crunching and snapping of the twigs and branches as the bird works its way through the understory.
Threats:
The Maui parrotbill's survival is threatened by:
habitat destruction by pigs
introduced predators, especially rats
avian diseases spread by mosquitoes
Today, while the parrotbill is restricted to the wet forests of East Maui, it seems to be holding its own, benefiting from the healthy regrowth of understory shrubs following a decade of feral pig control in Waikamoi and adjacent watershed lands.
`O`u
`O`u is one of Hawai'i's rarest birds. It once inhabited the islands of Kaua`i, O`ahu, Moloka`i, Lana`i, Maui, and Hawai`i. Today, it can only be found on the islands of Kaua`i and Hawai`i, where it resides in the upper canopy of `ohi`a forests. On Kaua`i, the few remaining individuals live at the 3-5,000 foot elevation in the Alaka`i Wilderness.
Threats:
Survival of the `o`u is threatened by:
Habitat destruction
Introduced predators
Avian diseases, such as malaria
Pueo
The Pueo and the Hawaiian Hawk are the only two extant native birds of prey native to the Hawaiian Islands. The pueo is a subspecies of the North American short-eared owl, and is considered by many scientists to be a relatively recent natural arrival to Hawai'i.it is celebrated as an `aumakua (ancestral spirit) by many Hawaiians.
Kauai Z-Tourz
Kauai Z-Tourz is dedicated to providing the best raft and snorkeling tour available on Kauai. Aboard our custom built Rigid-Hull Zodia Raft, guests are treated to a tour that is personalized, educational, interesting and adventurous. Guests are given marine as well as cultural narration and have the opportunity to snorkel with hundreds of species of tropical fish as well as the Green Sea Turtles. We also offer dolphin-watching year round and whale watching December through May.
We are truly a specialized boat tour available on Kauai. We are the only boat tour with the emphasis on snorkeling and marine life watching and interaction. Our personalized attention to guests, guided tour in the water, and commitment to education and protecting the marine environment are components we are very proud to feature. As examples of this, we DO NOT allow or promote fish feeding on our tours and we DO NOT ?throw anchor? in any of our selected sights, since both cause damage to the reef environment and its inhabitants.
As a company we are dedicated to making each tour a custom adventure for the guest and giving them a truly Hawaiian experience using ancient Hawaiian place names and knowledge being passed on from our captain and crew.
All of this will be shared with the spirit of Aloha!
10% DICOUNT ON ALL WEB-SITE RESERVATIONS! CONTACT THEM TODAY!
1-808-742-7422 or Toll-Free: 1-888-998-6879 (1-888-9ZTOURZ)
We are truly a specialized boat tour available on Kauai. We are the only boat tour with the emphasis on snorkeling and marine life watching and interaction. Our personalized attention to guests, guided tour in the water, and commitment to education and protecting the marine environment are components we are very proud to feature. As examples of this, we DO NOT allow or promote fish feeding on our tours and we DO NOT ?throw anchor? in any of our selected sights, since both cause damage to the reef environment and its inhabitants.
As a company we are dedicated to making each tour a custom adventure for the guest and giving them a truly Hawaiian experience using ancient Hawaiian place names and knowledge being passed on from our captain and crew.
All of this will be shared with the spirit of Aloha!
10% DICOUNT ON ALL WEB-SITE RESERVATIONS! CONTACT THEM TODAY!
1-808-742-7422 or Toll-Free: 1-888-998-6879 (1-888-9ZTOURZ)
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Marine Plants of Hawai'i
Marine Plants of Hawai'i
Order Siphonocladales
Dictyosphaeria cavernosa
Description: commonly known as the "Green Bubble Alga" due to the large round cells. When small the thallus is a hollow sphere, when larger the sphere may burst becoming convoluted and cup shaped. The seaweed is grass green in color and can form extensive mats over the reefs surface
Size: 1-10cm thick.
Habitat:
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Dictyosphaeria versluysii
Description: has bubble-like cells, but is completely solid in middle and always remains rounded. Grass green in color, but sometimes bluish-green in color.
Size: 1-2 cm high and 1-5 cm wide.
Habitat: commonly found on reef flats and tidepools.
Photograph: Richardson's Beach Park, Hilo Hawai'i. 1996
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Microdictyon japonicum
Description: M. japonicum is a single flattened blade consisting of a meshwork of fine connecting branches. It is grass-green in color.
Size: from 1 to 6cm wide and 1 to 4 cm high.
Habitat: low intertidal areas of rocky coastlines, on flat reefs, and in between the branches of corals at deeper depths.
Order Siphonocladales
Dictyosphaeria cavernosa
Description: commonly known as the "Green Bubble Alga" due to the large round cells. When small the thallus is a hollow sphere, when larger the sphere may burst becoming convoluted and cup shaped. The seaweed is grass green in color and can form extensive mats over the reefs surface
Size: 1-10cm thick.
Habitat:
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Dictyosphaeria versluysii
Description: has bubble-like cells, but is completely solid in middle and always remains rounded. Grass green in color, but sometimes bluish-green in color.
Size: 1-2 cm high and 1-5 cm wide.
Habitat: commonly found on reef flats and tidepools.
Photograph: Richardson's Beach Park, Hilo Hawai'i. 1996
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Microdictyon japonicum
Description: M. japonicum is a single flattened blade consisting of a meshwork of fine connecting branches. It is grass-green in color.
Size: from 1 to 6cm wide and 1 to 4 cm high.
Habitat: low intertidal areas of rocky coastlines, on flat reefs, and in between the branches of corals at deeper depths.
Sea Life Park Hawaii
At Sea Life Park, Hawaii's marine life comes alive in a dazzling display that will entertain and delight. Located just 15 miles from Waikiki on Oahu's beautiful and scenic Makapuu Point, Sea Life Park is a world-class marine attraction perched between the majestic Koolau Mountain Range and breathtaking Makapuu Beach. See dolphins dance, sea lions sing, and penguins perform in this magical place by the sea.
Come and explore our entertaining and educational attractions!.
Get up close and personal with a fantastic array of marine life and make amazing discoveries about the inhabitants of our aquatic world. You can swim with dolphins, come face to face with Sea Lions, play like a pirate or just kick back and watch our thrilling animal shows.
Stay dry or get wet, it's up to you but one thing's for sure - learning's never been so much fun!.
Park schedule: Daily from 10:30 to 17:00 hrs
A once in a lifetime chance to participate in a very special program with dolphins. You will enjoy a thrilling Belly-ride, unforgettable Kiss and free time!
The Dolphin Adventure is a once in a lifetime chance to participate in a very special program with dolphins. After a short orientation, guests will enjoy 30 minutes of dolphin fun! Participants will touch the dolphin and pose for a big KISS, perform various close contact behaviors and you will have a chance to view the dolphin underwater all while a trainer educates you about these amazing animals.
Different Activities:
Dolphin Adventure
Dolphin Aloha
Dolphin Encounter
Dolphin Royal Swim
Hawaiian Ray Encounter
Sea Life Luau
Sea Lion Discovery
Sea Trek Adventure
Keywords:
Advance Scuba training, Adventure Sports, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, family travel, sharks, discount travel, Enriched Air, Hawaii Scuba Diving, Hawaiian Islands sight seeing, ITAN, Kona, NAUI, NOAA, other specialty certifications, sharks, SSI, TDI/SDI, airlines, family travel, family vacations, Hawaii reef divers, Hawaiian Islands, hotels, Jason Kilgore, Maui, scuba certification, scuba diving, scuba rental gear, Scuba Hawaii, Hawaii Travel, Caribbean Scuba, Scuba Certification, Scuba Jay, Costa Maya Scuba Dive, Gear, Cave Diving, TDI, Water Rescue Diving, Water Rescues, PADI Technical Scuba Diving, Dive Rescue, Scuba Dive Answers, Jason Kilgore and Martial Arts, Jason Kilgore and USANA, Jason Kilgore and Karate, Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving, Sacramento, auburn, California, Hawaii, Jason Kilgore and Sierra Foothills Karate, Sierra Foothills Karate and Scuba Diving, Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving, snorkel and fins, vacation, Basic Open Water, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Hawaiian Islands, PADI Divemaster SCUBA Certification, Snorkel Bob, Snorkeling/Fin, TDI/SDI, Underwater Instructors, airlines, Divemaster scuba, family vacations, Reef Relief, coral reef, reef fish, maui divers, dive shops, scuba dive shops, cave diving, ice diving, wreck diving, Shark Diving, Shark Exploration, Baja, South America, vacation, Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Naui and Jason Kilgore, How to scuba dive?, skin diving, snorkel, mask, fins, sight seeing, hotels, Jason Kilgore and Hawaiian islands, Kona, Maui, other specialty certifications, Ocean Conservancy, International Coastal Cleanup, Costa Maya Hotel, Mexico Hotels, Mexico Scuba Diving, Diving in South American Scuba, Crabs, Sea Slugs, Marine Animals, Wildlife, Florida, Southern States, Marine Life, Pacific States, Pacific Northwestern States, California
Come and explore our entertaining and educational attractions!.
Get up close and personal with a fantastic array of marine life and make amazing discoveries about the inhabitants of our aquatic world. You can swim with dolphins, come face to face with Sea Lions, play like a pirate or just kick back and watch our thrilling animal shows.
Stay dry or get wet, it's up to you but one thing's for sure - learning's never been so much fun!.
Park schedule: Daily from 10:30 to 17:00 hrs
A once in a lifetime chance to participate in a very special program with dolphins. You will enjoy a thrilling Belly-ride, unforgettable Kiss and free time!
The Dolphin Adventure is a once in a lifetime chance to participate in a very special program with dolphins. After a short orientation, guests will enjoy 30 minutes of dolphin fun! Participants will touch the dolphin and pose for a big KISS, perform various close contact behaviors and you will have a chance to view the dolphin underwater all while a trainer educates you about these amazing animals.
Different Activities:
Dolphin Adventure
Dolphin Aloha
Dolphin Encounter
Dolphin Royal Swim
Hawaiian Ray Encounter
Sea Life Luau
Sea Lion Discovery
Sea Trek Adventure
Keywords:
Advance Scuba training, Adventure Sports, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, family travel, sharks, discount travel, Enriched Air, Hawaii Scuba Diving, Hawaiian Islands sight seeing, ITAN, Kona, NAUI, NOAA, other specialty certifications, sharks, SSI, TDI/SDI, airlines, family travel, family vacations, Hawaii reef divers, Hawaiian Islands, hotels, Jason Kilgore, Maui, scuba certification, scuba diving, scuba rental gear, Scuba Hawaii, Hawaii Travel, Caribbean Scuba, Scuba Certification, Scuba Jay, Costa Maya Scuba Dive, Gear, Cave Diving, TDI, Water Rescue Diving, Water Rescues, PADI Technical Scuba Diving, Dive Rescue, Scuba Dive Answers, Jason Kilgore and Martial Arts, Jason Kilgore and USANA, Jason Kilgore and Karate, Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving, Sacramento, auburn, California, Hawaii, Jason Kilgore and Sierra Foothills Karate, Sierra Foothills Karate and Scuba Diving, Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving, snorkel and fins, vacation, Basic Open Water, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Hawaiian Islands, PADI Divemaster SCUBA Certification, Snorkel Bob, Snorkeling/Fin, TDI/SDI, Underwater Instructors, airlines, Divemaster scuba, family vacations, Reef Relief, coral reef, reef fish, maui divers, dive shops, scuba dive shops, cave diving, ice diving, wreck diving, Shark Diving, Shark Exploration, Baja, South America, vacation, Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Naui and Jason Kilgore, How to scuba dive?, skin diving, snorkel, mask, fins, sight seeing, hotels, Jason Kilgore and Hawaiian islands, Kona, Maui, other specialty certifications, Ocean Conservancy, International Coastal Cleanup, Costa Maya Hotel, Mexico Hotels, Mexico Scuba Diving, Diving in South American Scuba, Crabs, Sea Slugs, Marine Animals, Wildlife, Florida, Southern States, Marine Life, Pacific States, Pacific Northwestern States, California
Getting your feet wet- First time scuba
By: Amanda W. (Scuba Junkie)
Life of a beginner scuba queen
2/6/08
Being from Iowa, you may not consider scuba diving an option for me. That is, unless you don't know where Iowa is or that we're the land of corn. Not exactly teeming with fantastic vacation dive spots that are flocked with tourists. I want to share my thoughts and experiences as I go through the process of learning to scuba dive.
My hope is that fellow novices can learn from my stories, or maybe more advanced divers to gain an understanding of beginners. No matter the reason for your interest in scuba, it has brought you to this point. Some background on myself is that I do not like being in a bathing suit, am not used to being in water, dislike emerging my face in water, and have a fear of drowning. With that said, through the encouragement and passion of a friend, I am preparing to take my first steps toward becoming an Open Water Diver.
I personally had my first experience with snorkeling in April 2007 in Nassau, Bahamas while on vacation. After the first 15 minutes in the water of thinking I was going to drown, I began to relax and focus more on my desire to see the beauty beneath me. I had to practice at breathing through the snorkel underwater, and let me tell you it is a strange feeling to see below and continue breathing. My friend and I had $10 underwater cameras, but the pictures could not do justice for what we could see with our own eyes. I was a bit disappointed in the coral to be honest, but I really had nothing to compare it to. After all, I went for the experience, and the fish didn't disappoint.
With Scuba Jay's prompting I began to consider trying scuba, though after almost hyperventilating with just snorkeling I had my reservations. We began with hearing stories and watching videos on YouTube and learning of different types and purposes of diving- wreck/ excavation diving, underwater archeology, underwater ecology, vacation diving, underwater photography, night diving, cave diving, ice diving, rescue diving, search and recovery diving, and for academic or research purposes. For me, I am interested in a few of the aforementioned so I recommend that if you're nervous, find one you can use as a motivator to get your feet wet. I am assured that once you start, you're hooked.
There is a progression to diving certifications and two primary governing bodies NAUI and PADI, though SDI, TDI, WASI, and NASE are also out there.
NAUI:
1. Skin diver
2. Scuba diver
3. Advanced scuba diver
4. Master scuba diver
5. Leadership certifications
· Divemaster
· Skin diving Instructor
· Assistant Instructor
6. NAUI scuba Instructor
PADI:
1. Open water diver
2. Advanced open water diver
3. Rescue diver
4. Master scuba diver OR Divemaster (which can lead to Course Director)
There are many special certifications you can receive along the way of both NAUI's and PADI's paths. Each level requires varying numbers of dives you must successfully complete, and some coursework as well.
Life of a beginner scuba queen
2/6/08
Being from Iowa, you may not consider scuba diving an option for me. That is, unless you don't know where Iowa is or that we're the land of corn. Not exactly teeming with fantastic vacation dive spots that are flocked with tourists. I want to share my thoughts and experiences as I go through the process of learning to scuba dive.
My hope is that fellow novices can learn from my stories, or maybe more advanced divers to gain an understanding of beginners. No matter the reason for your interest in scuba, it has brought you to this point. Some background on myself is that I do not like being in a bathing suit, am not used to being in water, dislike emerging my face in water, and have a fear of drowning. With that said, through the encouragement and passion of a friend, I am preparing to take my first steps toward becoming an Open Water Diver.
I personally had my first experience with snorkeling in April 2007 in Nassau, Bahamas while on vacation. After the first 15 minutes in the water of thinking I was going to drown, I began to relax and focus more on my desire to see the beauty beneath me. I had to practice at breathing through the snorkel underwater, and let me tell you it is a strange feeling to see below and continue breathing. My friend and I had $10 underwater cameras, but the pictures could not do justice for what we could see with our own eyes. I was a bit disappointed in the coral to be honest, but I really had nothing to compare it to. After all, I went for the experience, and the fish didn't disappoint.
With Scuba Jay's prompting I began to consider trying scuba, though after almost hyperventilating with just snorkeling I had my reservations. We began with hearing stories and watching videos on YouTube and learning of different types and purposes of diving- wreck/ excavation diving, underwater archeology, underwater ecology, vacation diving, underwater photography, night diving, cave diving, ice diving, rescue diving, search and recovery diving, and for academic or research purposes. For me, I am interested in a few of the aforementioned so I recommend that if you're nervous, find one you can use as a motivator to get your feet wet. I am assured that once you start, you're hooked.
There is a progression to diving certifications and two primary governing bodies NAUI and PADI, though SDI, TDI, WASI, and NASE are also out there.
NAUI:
1. Skin diver
2. Scuba diver
3. Advanced scuba diver
4. Master scuba diver
5. Leadership certifications
· Divemaster
· Skin diving Instructor
· Assistant Instructor
6. NAUI scuba Instructor
PADI:
1. Open water diver
2. Advanced open water diver
3. Rescue diver
4. Master scuba diver OR Divemaster (which can lead to Course Director)
There are many special certifications you can receive along the way of both NAUI's and PADI's paths. Each level requires varying numbers of dives you must successfully complete, and some coursework as well.
Waimea Bay - North Shore - Oahu
Famous big wave surf break with the largest surfable waves on the North Shore. Between 4-10 foot it breaks next to the inside rocks and is considered "pinballs." It starts breaking on the outside boil in the middle of the bay around 10-12 foot, but big wave veterans don't consider Waimea to be "real" until its 18-20 feet, and waves of up to 25-30 foot have been ridden at "The Bay."
There are about 5 different webcams these days in the church above the bay.
View from the mountain above the Valley.
There is a buoy located about a mile outside of the bay, it is used to predict really big waves coming through, or current conditions.
Medium Surf skill set required! Daughter and I surfered these waves three-four different times, peaking 15-20 foot waves on an average day making the ride little complicated for beginners.
There are about 5 different webcams these days in the church above the bay.
View from the mountain above the Valley.
There is a buoy located about a mile outside of the bay, it is used to predict really big waves coming through, or current conditions.
Medium Surf skill set required! Daughter and I surfered these waves three-four different times, peaking 15-20 foot waves on an average day making the ride little complicated for beginners.
Pipeline - North Shore - Oahu
This is how you might feel your first time out at pipe.
Breaking close to the beach and visible just towards Kaena Point next to Ehukai Beach Park is the "Pipeline" reef. Usually pipeline is the hollowest, biggest barrel on the North Shore. Pipeline is nearly always extremely crowded, and for good reason, no place else breaks like it.
The biggest barrel in the world at times, and one of the absolute best waves on the north shore. For sheer adrenaline, power, beauty and danger, Pipeline has no equal.
Pipeline's famous lefts break best on a west or northwest swell, the north lines tend to make it close out. The is where the really big barrels are.
The right at Pipeline, or Backdoor Pipeline, can deliver a sometimes longer, faster barrel than pipeline itself, although there is no channel back out, like pipeline has.
The drop at Pipeline is almost always late, and critical, with the wave jacking up much bigger by the time you get to the bottom. Wave selection can be key because not every wave is makeable.
When the swell gets over 6-8 feet, pipeline starts breaking from the second and third reef, allowing a easier take-off at times, which gives the rider time to set-up for when it hits the first reef and starts to barrel.
Pipe is not a place for beginners, with a defined pecking order when it gets really good.
Breaking close to the beach and visible just towards Kaena Point next to Ehukai Beach Park is the "Pipeline" reef. Usually pipeline is the hollowest, biggest barrel on the North Shore. Pipeline is nearly always extremely crowded, and for good reason, no place else breaks like it.
The biggest barrel in the world at times, and one of the absolute best waves on the north shore. For sheer adrenaline, power, beauty and danger, Pipeline has no equal.
Pipeline's famous lefts break best on a west or northwest swell, the north lines tend to make it close out. The is where the really big barrels are.
The right at Pipeline, or Backdoor Pipeline, can deliver a sometimes longer, faster barrel than pipeline itself, although there is no channel back out, like pipeline has.
The drop at Pipeline is almost always late, and critical, with the wave jacking up much bigger by the time you get to the bottom. Wave selection can be key because not every wave is makeable.
When the swell gets over 6-8 feet, pipeline starts breaking from the second and third reef, allowing a easier take-off at times, which gives the rider time to set-up for when it hits the first reef and starts to barrel.
Pipe is not a place for beginners, with a defined pecking order when it gets really good.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
KAUAI ZODIAC TOURZ
WELCOME TO KAUAI ZODIAC TOURZ
THE ONLY BOAT TOUR ON KAUAI SPECIALIZING IN SNORKELING!
Come explore Kauai's PRISTINE offshore reefs and caverns
Snorkel equipment, food and beverages- All included
More Fish and Turtles- Less People !!!
Hawaiian owned- Experience shared with aloha!
Extraordinary Family Adventure- Beginners Welcome.
Humpback Whales (Dec.-May), Turtles, Dolphins and Exotic fish - Not to be missed!
10% DICOUNT ON ALL WEB-SITE RESERVATIONS! CONTACT THEM TODAY!
1-808-742-7422 or Toll-Free: 1-888-998-6879 (1-888-9ZTOURZ)
Hawaii Reef Divers/Scuba Jay recommends this operator!
THE ONLY BOAT TOUR ON KAUAI SPECIALIZING IN SNORKELING!
Come explore Kauai's PRISTINE offshore reefs and caverns
Snorkel equipment, food and beverages- All included
More Fish and Turtles- Less People !!!
Hawaiian owned- Experience shared with aloha!
Extraordinary Family Adventure- Beginners Welcome.
Humpback Whales (Dec.-May), Turtles, Dolphins and Exotic fish - Not to be missed!
10% DICOUNT ON ALL WEB-SITE RESERVATIONS! CONTACT THEM TODAY!
1-808-742-7422 or Toll-Free: 1-888-998-6879 (1-888-9ZTOURZ)
Hawaii Reef Divers/Scuba Jay recommends this operator!
Hawaii Dolphin Swim & Snorkel
Come and spend the afternoon with the amazing crew of the Kaaihue Eater of the Dead as they take you snorkeling off the west coast of O'ahu! Before embarking on your adventure, you will be treated to either a delicious continental breakfast of Kona coffee, hot tea, cocoa and donuts for the morning tour, or a light midday snack of soda, snacks and fruit for the afternoon tour.After boarding the vessel, you will go for a short 10-minute cruise up the coastline where, if conditions permit, you will have the opportunity to swim with Nai'a, the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins. These beautiful marine mammals were loved, respected and protected by the ancient Hawaiian people. Kaaihue Brothers Adventures crew continue to honor that tradition and, if the conditions permit, they will allow you to passively swim among them, but there is a very strict no-touching and no loud and disruptive behavior policy. We will feed you to the sharks!
Following your swim with the dolphins, this three hour tour continues with snorkeling in beautiful live coral gardens with schools of brilliantly colored reef fishes and also swimming with another member of the ocean family, the Honu or Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles of "turtle town". You'll be amazed and awed by the abundant sea life in this pristine natural environment.
As you head back to shore, just sit back and relax because Kaaihue Brothers will also provide you with a light lunch!
The Boats:
The 37-foot Threaser-built Kaaihue Eater of the Dead offers one of the best rides on Hawaii waters! It's 478-HP engine allows exceptionally high-speed rides at up to 22-knots and it also has comfortable ocean side seating for up to 35-passengers, a powerful engine and an onboard restroom.
The Maui Adventure is a 71-foot RIB (rigged inflatable boat) vessel that can carry 90passengers for a fun-filled day of snorkeling and dolphin watching. You will be seated comfortably on the boat as the three powerful 600-HP engines propel the vessel at 29-knots over the beautiful waters of the Pacific Ocean. There is plenty of comfortable center seating and an onboard restroom as well.
Keywords:
Advance Scuba training, Adventure Sports, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, family travel, sharks, discount travel, Enriched Air, Hawaii Scuba Diving, Hawaiian Islands sight seeing, ITAN, Kona, NAUI, NOAA, other specialty certifications, sharks, SSI, TDI/SDI, airlines, family travel, family vacations, Hawaii reef divers, Hawaiian Islands, hotels, Jason Kilgore, Maui, scuba certification, scuba diving, scuba rental gear, Scuba Hawaii, Hawaii Travel, Caribbean Scuba, Scuba Certification, Scuba Jay, Costa Maya Scuba Dive, Gear, Cave Diving, TDI, Water Rescue Diving, Water Rescues, PADI Technical Scuba Diving, Dive Rescue, Scuba Dive Answers, Jason Kilgore and Martial Arts, Jason Kilgore and USANA, Jason Kilgore and Karate, Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving, Sacramento, auburn, California, Hawaii, Jason Kilgore and Sierra Foothills Karate, Sierra Foothills Karate and Scuba Diving, Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving, snorkel and fins, vacation, Basic Open Water, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Hawaiian Islands, PADI Divemaster SCUBA Certification, Snorkel Bob, Snorkeling/Fin, TDI/SDI, Underwater Instructors, airlines, Divemaster scuba, family vacations, Reef Relief, coral reef, reef fish, maui divers, dive shops, scuba dive shops, cave diving, ice diving, wreck diving, Shark Diving, Shark Exploration, Baja, South America, vacation, Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Naui and Jason Kilgore, How to scuba dive?, skin diving, snorkel, mask, fins, sight seeing, hotels, Jason Kilgore and Hawaiian islands, Kona, Maui, other specialty certifications, Ocean Conservancy, International Coastal Cleanup, Costa Maya Hotel, Mexico Hotels, Mexico Scuba Diving, Diving in South American Scuba, Crabs, Sea Slugs, Marine Animals, Wildlife, Florida, Southern States, Marine Life, Pacific States, Pacific Northwestern States, California
Following your swim with the dolphins, this three hour tour continues with snorkeling in beautiful live coral gardens with schools of brilliantly colored reef fishes and also swimming with another member of the ocean family, the Honu or Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles of "turtle town". You'll be amazed and awed by the abundant sea life in this pristine natural environment.
As you head back to shore, just sit back and relax because Kaaihue Brothers will also provide you with a light lunch!
The Boats:
The 37-foot Threaser-built Kaaihue Eater of the Dead offers one of the best rides on Hawaii waters! It's 478-HP engine allows exceptionally high-speed rides at up to 22-knots and it also has comfortable ocean side seating for up to 35-passengers, a powerful engine and an onboard restroom.
The Maui Adventure is a 71-foot RIB (rigged inflatable boat) vessel that can carry 90passengers for a fun-filled day of snorkeling and dolphin watching. You will be seated comfortably on the boat as the three powerful 600-HP engines propel the vessel at 29-knots over the beautiful waters of the Pacific Ocean. There is plenty of comfortable center seating and an onboard restroom as well.
Keywords:
Advance Scuba training, Adventure Sports, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, family travel, sharks, discount travel, Enriched Air, Hawaii Scuba Diving, Hawaiian Islands sight seeing, ITAN, Kona, NAUI, NOAA, other specialty certifications, sharks, SSI, TDI/SDI, airlines, family travel, family vacations, Hawaii reef divers, Hawaiian Islands, hotels, Jason Kilgore, Maui, scuba certification, scuba diving, scuba rental gear, Scuba Hawaii, Hawaii Travel, Caribbean Scuba, Scuba Certification, Scuba Jay, Costa Maya Scuba Dive, Gear, Cave Diving, TDI, Water Rescue Diving, Water Rescues, PADI Technical Scuba Diving, Dive Rescue, Scuba Dive Answers, Jason Kilgore and Martial Arts, Jason Kilgore and USANA, Jason Kilgore and Karate, Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving, Sacramento, auburn, California, Hawaii, Jason Kilgore and Sierra Foothills Karate, Sierra Foothills Karate and Scuba Diving, Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving, snorkel and fins, vacation, Basic Open Water, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Hawaiian Islands, PADI Divemaster SCUBA Certification, Snorkel Bob, Snorkeling/Fin, TDI/SDI, Underwater Instructors, airlines, Divemaster scuba, family vacations, Reef Relief, coral reef, reef fish, maui divers, dive shops, scuba dive shops, cave diving, ice diving, wreck diving, Shark Diving, Shark Exploration, Baja, South America, vacation, Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Naui and Jason Kilgore, How to scuba dive?, skin diving, snorkel, mask, fins, sight seeing, hotels, Jason Kilgore and Hawaiian islands, Kona, Maui, other specialty certifications, Ocean Conservancy, International Coastal Cleanup, Costa Maya Hotel, Mexico Hotels, Mexico Scuba Diving, Diving in South American Scuba, Crabs, Sea Slugs, Marine Animals, Wildlife, Florida, Southern States, Marine Life, Pacific States, Pacific Northwestern States, California
Friday, January 25, 2008
About Best of Hawaii
http://www.bestofhawaii.com/index.shtml
Site Contents:
About Best of Hawaii
KEY WORDS
Scuba Hawaii Hawaii Travel Caribbean Scuba Scuba Certification Scuba Jay Costa Maya Scuba Dive Gear Hawaii Reef Divers Scuba Diving Cave Diving Naui SSI TDI SDI Water Rescue Diving Water Rescues PADI Technical Scuba Diving Dive Rescue Jason Kilgore What is Scuba Diving Scuba Dive Answers Jason Kilgore and Martial Arts Jason Kilgore and USANA Jason Kilgore and Karate Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving Sacramento auburn California Hawaii Jason Kilgore and Sierra Foothills Karate Sierra Foothills Karate and Scuba Diving Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving
Site Contents:
About Best of Hawaii
KEY WORDS
Scuba Hawaii Hawaii Travel Caribbean Scuba Scuba Certification Scuba Jay Costa Maya Scuba Dive Gear Hawaii Reef Divers Scuba Diving Cave Diving Naui SSI TDI SDI Water Rescue Diving Water Rescues PADI Technical Scuba Diving Dive Rescue Jason Kilgore What is Scuba Diving Scuba Dive Answers Jason Kilgore and Martial Arts Jason Kilgore and USANA Jason Kilgore and Karate Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving Sacramento auburn California Hawaii Jason Kilgore and Sierra Foothills Karate Sierra Foothills Karate and Scuba Diving Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving
Best of Hawaii
http://www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/
KEYWORDS:
Scuba Hawaii Hawaii Travel Caribbean Scuba Scuba Certification Scuba Jay Costa Maya Scuba Dive Gear Hawaii Reef Divers Scuba Diving Cave Diving Naui SSI TDI SDI Water Rescue Diving Water Rescues PADI Technical Scuba Diving Dive Rescue Jason Kilgore What is Scuba Diving Scuba Dive Answers Jason Kilgore and Martial Arts Jason Kilgore and USANA Jason Kilgore and Karate Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving Sacramento auburn California Hawaii Jason Kilgore and Sierra Foothills Karate Sierra Foothills Karate and Scuba Diving Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving
KEYWORDS:
Scuba Hawaii Hawaii Travel Caribbean Scuba Scuba Certification Scuba Jay Costa Maya Scuba Dive Gear Hawaii Reef Divers Scuba Diving Cave Diving Naui SSI TDI SDI Water Rescue Diving Water Rescues PADI Technical Scuba Diving Dive Rescue Jason Kilgore What is Scuba Diving Scuba Dive Answers Jason Kilgore and Martial Arts Jason Kilgore and USANA Jason Kilgore and Karate Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving Sacramento auburn California Hawaii Jason Kilgore and Sierra Foothills Karate Sierra Foothills Karate and Scuba Diving Jason Kilgore and Scuba Diving
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Overfishing in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands
Honolulu, HI - The Ocean Conservancy and Marine Conservation Biology Institute today released a joint scientific report showing the repeated occurrence of overfishing in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. The report reveals that the area was overfished or in the danger zone in 11 out of 16 years-from 1988 to 2003-with only limited fishing pressure, as few boats have fished the distant region. Despite the low fishing presence, commercial fishing has harmed the rich ecosystem, leading to a decline in the important bottomfish populations that exist in the unique archipelago.
"Overfishing is a serious threat to the health of our oceans, and if we are to act as good stewards, we need to make sure that the Northwestern Hawaiian Island bottomfish population remains healthy," said Dennis Heinemann, Senior Scientist for The Ocean Conservancy and lead author of the report.
A unique and diverse ecosystem exists in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands archipelago, which stretches from the main islands to Midway. This ecosystem contains extensive and massive reef colonies and thousands of marine species, and stands apart as an oceanic gem at a time in which large fish are disappearing and worldwide ecosystems are in decline. It is also highly important culturally for the native Hawaiian community. The report shows that even this relatively untouched region is susceptible to harm from even limited commercial fishing. It is clear that the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands cannot remain healthy if any commercial fishing continues.
"Many have claimed that so few vessels fishing such a vast area would cause little harm," said Lance Morgan, Chief Scientist for Marine Conservation Biology Institute. "The government's data have shown the opposite is the case: the fishing pressure from only a few boats has had demonstrably negative effects on the resources. This unique region, with its extraordinary reef ecosystem, deserves extraordinary care."
The report's conclusions are based on recently adopted methods of analysis, using data provided by the National Marine Fisheries Service and the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Visit
www.oceanconservancy.org/hawaii
http://www.mcbi.org/
for more information.
Keywords:
Advance Scuba training, Adventure Sports, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, family travel, Hawaii reef divers, NAUI, scuba rental gear, sharks, Digital Underwater Photography, discount travel, Enriched Air, Hawaii Scuba Diving, Hawaiian Islands sight seeing, ITAN, Kona, NAUI, NOAA, other specialty certifications, sharks, SSI, TDI/SDI, airlines, family travel, family vacations, Hawaii reef divers, Hawaiian Islands, hotels, Jason Kilgore, Maui, scuba certification, scuba diving, scuba rental gear, snorkel/fins, vacation, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Hawaiian Islands, PADI Divemaster SCUBA Certification, Snorkel Bob, Snorkeling/Fin, TDI/SDI, Underwater Instructors
"Overfishing is a serious threat to the health of our oceans, and if we are to act as good stewards, we need to make sure that the Northwestern Hawaiian Island bottomfish population remains healthy," said Dennis Heinemann, Senior Scientist for The Ocean Conservancy and lead author of the report.
A unique and diverse ecosystem exists in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands archipelago, which stretches from the main islands to Midway. This ecosystem contains extensive and massive reef colonies and thousands of marine species, and stands apart as an oceanic gem at a time in which large fish are disappearing and worldwide ecosystems are in decline. It is also highly important culturally for the native Hawaiian community. The report shows that even this relatively untouched region is susceptible to harm from even limited commercial fishing. It is clear that the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands cannot remain healthy if any commercial fishing continues.
"Many have claimed that so few vessels fishing such a vast area would cause little harm," said Lance Morgan, Chief Scientist for Marine Conservation Biology Institute. "The government's data have shown the opposite is the case: the fishing pressure from only a few boats has had demonstrably negative effects on the resources. This unique region, with its extraordinary reef ecosystem, deserves extraordinary care."
The report's conclusions are based on recently adopted methods of analysis, using data provided by the National Marine Fisheries Service and the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Visit
www.oceanconservancy.org/hawaii
http://www.mcbi.org/
for more information.
Keywords:
Advance Scuba training, Adventure Sports, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, family travel, Hawaii reef divers, NAUI, scuba rental gear, sharks, Digital Underwater Photography, discount travel, Enriched Air, Hawaii Scuba Diving, Hawaiian Islands sight seeing, ITAN, Kona, NAUI, NOAA, other specialty certifications, sharks, SSI, TDI/SDI, airlines, family travel, family vacations, Hawaii reef divers, Hawaiian Islands, hotels, Jason Kilgore, Maui, scuba certification, scuba diving, scuba rental gear, snorkel/fins, vacation, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Hawaiian Islands, PADI Divemaster SCUBA Certification, Snorkel Bob, Snorkeling/Fin, TDI/SDI, Underwater Instructors
Polar bears are on thin ice, literally
Dear Friend,
Polar bears are on thin ice, literally. The Arctic sea-ice habitat on which they rely is melting, the earliest and most drastic victim of global warming. With one fifth of sea ice habitat in Alaska already lost, we must act quickly to save these magnificent polar bears from extinction. Top government officials, however, have delayed the decision to list polar bears under the Endangered Species Act, precisely when protections are needed most.
At the same time, the Bush administration is charging ahead with efforts to open pristine Arctic areas in the Chukchi Sea for oil exploration and drilling and plans to begin leasing territory for this purpose in a matter of weeks. Oil and gas development operations typically emit tons of greenhouse gas pollutants into the atmosphere, discharge toxics into the ground, and dump wastewaters into the marine environment. Activities associated with the proposed leases would directly and negatively affect polar bears and other Arctic wildlife species that are already under stress from rapidly disappearing sea-ice. Listing polar bears would require federal agencies to consider the effects of oil exploration on polar bears and their habitat.
Should the government allow the Chukchi Sea oil lease sales before protections for polar bears are in place, the impacts will not have been fully considered before the leases move forward. Oil companies could then argue that they are exempt from measures that protect polar bears passed after they bought their leases.
Oil spills are another huge threat to polar bears. The Minerals Management Service says the odds are as high as fifty-fifty of a 1,000-barrel-or-more oil spill in the Chukchi Sea. A spill of that size could be fatal for polar bears and yet the government has no clear plan for responding if a spill does occur.
Last Thursday, Congressman Ed Markey (D-MA) held a hearing in his House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming to examine the Administration’s decision to delay the polar bear listing decision. He also introduced legislation that would prohibit the lease sale from going forward until the Secretary of Interior determines whether to list the polar bear under the Endangered Species Act and designate critical habitat.
The Arctic environment is fragile, and one of the few remaining habitats left for polar bears. Moving ahead with risky oil and gas development without considering the effects on the environment is a bad idea and emblematic of our continued march down the path of fossil fuel dependence and increased global warming.
Please take action now! Contact Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne and tell him to act quickly to list polar bears under the Endangered Species Act, and to delay a decision on the oil lease sale until impacts on polar bears and their habitat have been fully evaluated.
Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Vicki CornishVice President,
Marine Wildlife Conservation Ocean Conservancy
================================================
Additional Information:
Environmental Impact Statement on Lease Sale 193
(Chukchi Sea, Alaska Outer Continental Shelf Region):
http://www.mms.gov/alaska/ref/EIS%20EA/Chukchi_feis_Sale193/feis_193.htm
Information from recent studies on relationships of polar bears to present and future sea ice environments:
http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/special/polar_bears/
KEYWORDS:
Advance Scuba training, Adventure Sports, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, family travel, Hawaii reef divers, NAUI, scuba rental gear, sharks, Digital Underwater Photography, discount travel, Enriched Air, Hawaii Scuba Diving, Hawaiian Islands sight seeing, ITAN, Kona, NAUI, NOAA, other specialty certifications, sharks, SSI, TDI/SDI, airlines, family travel, family vacations, Hawaii reef divers, Hawaiian Islands, hotels, Jason Kilgore, Maui, scuba certification, scuba diving, scuba rental gear, snorkel/fins, vacation, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Hawaiian Islands, PADI Divemaster SCUBA Certification, Snorkel Bob, Snorkeling/Fin, TDI/SDI, Underwater Instructors
Polar bears are on thin ice, literally. The Arctic sea-ice habitat on which they rely is melting, the earliest and most drastic victim of global warming. With one fifth of sea ice habitat in Alaska already lost, we must act quickly to save these magnificent polar bears from extinction. Top government officials, however, have delayed the decision to list polar bears under the Endangered Species Act, precisely when protections are needed most.
At the same time, the Bush administration is charging ahead with efforts to open pristine Arctic areas in the Chukchi Sea for oil exploration and drilling and plans to begin leasing territory for this purpose in a matter of weeks. Oil and gas development operations typically emit tons of greenhouse gas pollutants into the atmosphere, discharge toxics into the ground, and dump wastewaters into the marine environment. Activities associated with the proposed leases would directly and negatively affect polar bears and other Arctic wildlife species that are already under stress from rapidly disappearing sea-ice. Listing polar bears would require federal agencies to consider the effects of oil exploration on polar bears and their habitat.
Should the government allow the Chukchi Sea oil lease sales before protections for polar bears are in place, the impacts will not have been fully considered before the leases move forward. Oil companies could then argue that they are exempt from measures that protect polar bears passed after they bought their leases.
Oil spills are another huge threat to polar bears. The Minerals Management Service says the odds are as high as fifty-fifty of a 1,000-barrel-or-more oil spill in the Chukchi Sea. A spill of that size could be fatal for polar bears and yet the government has no clear plan for responding if a spill does occur.
Last Thursday, Congressman Ed Markey (D-MA) held a hearing in his House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming to examine the Administration’s decision to delay the polar bear listing decision. He also introduced legislation that would prohibit the lease sale from going forward until the Secretary of Interior determines whether to list the polar bear under the Endangered Species Act and designate critical habitat.
The Arctic environment is fragile, and one of the few remaining habitats left for polar bears. Moving ahead with risky oil and gas development without considering the effects on the environment is a bad idea and emblematic of our continued march down the path of fossil fuel dependence and increased global warming.
Please take action now! Contact Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne and tell him to act quickly to list polar bears under the Endangered Species Act, and to delay a decision on the oil lease sale until impacts on polar bears and their habitat have been fully evaluated.
Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Vicki CornishVice President,
Marine Wildlife Conservation Ocean Conservancy
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Additional Information:
Environmental Impact Statement on Lease Sale 193
(Chukchi Sea, Alaska Outer Continental Shelf Region):
http://www.mms.gov/alaska/ref/EIS%20EA/Chukchi_feis_Sale193/feis_193.htm
Information from recent studies on relationships of polar bears to present and future sea ice environments:
http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/special/polar_bears/
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Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Everything About Hawaii
http://google.nationalgeographic.com/search?site=default_collection&client=default_frontend&proxystylesheet=default_frontend&output=xml_no_dtd&oe=UTF-8&q=HAWAII&btnG.x=23&btnG.y=5
KEYWORDS:
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KEYWORDS:
Advance Scuba training, Adventure Sports, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, family travel, Hawaii reef divers, NAUI, scuba rental gear, sharks, Digital Underwater Photography, discount travel, Enriched Air, Hawaii Scuba Diving, Hawaiian Islands sight seeing, ITAN, Kona, NAUI, NOAA, other specialty certifications, sharks, SSI, TDI/SDI, airlines, family travel, family vacations, Hawaii reef divers, Hawaiian Islands, hotels, Jason Kilgore, Maui, scuba certification, scuba diving, scuba rental gear, snorkel/fins, vacation, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Hawaiian Islands, PADI Divemaster SCUBA Certification, Snorkel Bob, Snorkling/Fin, TDI/SDI, Underwater Instructors, AHA Scientific Statements AHA Statements Alice Clegg Alternative Medicine antioxidants body building Business Opportunity Calcium California Cancer cardiovascular diseases cooking diets fitness food health health and freedom Jason Kilgore Kilgore and USANA Kilgore Defense Institute Kilgore MMA Martial Arts mens health Mexico USANA Minerals mydreams.usana.com nutrition nutritionals Recipes Safety Sierra Foothills Karate nutrition advice sports Sports Health Sports Nutrition Statements Stress Stress Management USANA Usana and Alice Clegg Usana and Jason Kilgore Usana and Sierra Foothills Karate USANA HEALTH SCIENCES USANA HEALTH SCIENCES DISTRIBUTOR Utah vitamins wellness Wellness Misphitz women fitness womens health
Hawaii Volcanoes Video -- National Geographic
An unprecedented number of tremors lead volcano experts to believe Hawaii'sMauna Loa volcano could erupt soon. ..
http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/player/environment/environment-natural-disasters/volcanoes/hawaii-volcanoes.html
Keywords:
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http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/player/environment/environment-natural-disasters/volcanoes/hawaii-volcanoes.html
Keywords:
Advance Scuba training, Adventure Sports, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, family travel, Hawaii reef divers, NAUI, scuba rental gear, sharks, Digital Underwater Photography, discount travel, Enriched Air, Hawaii Scuba Diving, Hawaiian Islands sight seeing, ITAN, Kona, NAUI, NOAA, other specialty certifications, sharks, SSI, TDI/SDI, airlines, family travel, family vacations, Hawaii reef divers, Hawaiian Islands, hotels, Jason Kilgore, Maui, scuba certification, scuba diving, scuba rental gear, snorkel/fins, vacation, Basic Open Water, Digital Underwater Photography, Extreme Scuba and Jason Kilgore, Hawaiian Islands, PADI Divemaster SCUBA Certification, Snorkel Bob, Snorkling/Fin, TDI/SDI, Underwater Instructors, AHA Scientific Statements AHA Statements Alice Clegg Alternative Medicine antioxidants body building Business Opportunity Calcium California Cancer cardiovascular diseases cooking diets fitness food health health and freedom Jason Kilgore Kilgore and USANA Kilgore Defense Institute Kilgore MMA Martial Arts mens health Mexico USANA Minerals mydreams.usana.com nutrition nutritionals Recipes Safety Sierra Foothills Karate nutrition advise sports Sports Health Sports Nutrition Statements Stress Stress Management USANA Usana and Alice Clegg Usana and Jason Kilgore Usana and Sierra Foothills Karate USANA HEALTH SCIENCES USANA HEALTH SCIENCES DISTRIBUTOR Utah vitamins wellness Wellness Misphitz women fitness womens health
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