Ocean Views 2011

The Ocean Views photo competition quickly created a reputation for excellence in wildlife and marine photography. Check out the winners and honorable mentions of Ocean Views 2011.

Two pink-and-red longnose hawkfish 1200

Dr. Nick Bird

When you look at the paths of Dr. Nick Bird and DAN, you realize they aren’t parallel, but instead are on a course destined to intersect. Meet DAN’s first-ever chief medical officer, a man of passion and vision.

Male scuba diver approaches a giant grouper

Calling the Dive

Calling a dive is not as easy as just giving the thumbs-up signal. There are steps to follow after the signal to cancel a dive. The dive briefing should cover these procedures, and the greater the dive’s potential risk, the more attention to detail the procedures and briefing should have to make calling the dive happen as safely as possible.

diver in the ocean with a surface signaling buoy

Ningaloo Reef

AN OTHERWORDLY LANDSCAPE lies on the western coast of Australia, where the red outback meets the iridescent blue of the Indian Ocean. This magical place is the Ningaloo Reef, or Nyinggulu in the local Aboriginal language.

The Resplendent Reefs of South Africa’s Port Elizabeth

It is difficult to step out from the shadow cast by a famous family member long in the spotlight and to stake one’s own claim and create a different identity. I was reminded of this while reflecting on my relationship with diving in South Africa. 

A pyjama catshark

Saint Lucia

Looking down from space, the Windward Islands resemble an emerald necklace floating in the sea. Viewed from underwater, when you are immersed in that warm, blue sea and surrounded by colorful reefs bustling with life, the Windwards take on new dimensions.

Red erect rope sponges and orange elephant ear sponges

Sentinels for the Seas

The U.S. currently has 14 national marine sanctuaries and two marine national monuments, and each has its own unique story. In preserving these irreplaceable resources, the sanctuaries protect who we are at our base — our soul as a nation. They reaffirm us and connect us to our incredible heritage.

Fish blanket the lush undersea gardens of colorful sponges, sea anemones, sea stars, sea cucumbers, snails and crabs.

Sustainable Seafood

How well do you fully understand sustainable seafood? Are you familiar with fish farms? Learn more about the changing agriculture industry and the importance of sustainable seafood.

Truth North

Norway’s coast and the northward Norwegian Sea offer experienced divers unique experiences like polar bears, seals and more. Read more about diving in Norway.

Happy polar bear floats at water's surface