Nola Schoder
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Ocean conservation, diving, dive travel, dive destinations, marine wildlife, sharks and rays, ocean research, climate change
Photojournalist & ocean addict hunting for new experiences and candid moments. Specializing in environmental & marine conservation and dive travel
Articles by Nola Schoder
In Belize, the People Saving the Reef Are the Same People Showing It Off
Belize Sustainability Diving by Nola Schoder Jun 8, 2026 At 100 feet down inside Belize’s Great Blue Hole, I swim past massive limestone stalactites formed during the last ice age. The silhouettes of divers hovered suspended in the deep blue around me. But the most memorable part of diving in Belize wasn’t this bucket-list destination itself.
Preserving Wrecks in 3D: How Reef Smart Guides Is Mapping Underwater Legacy
I feel like a human drone caught in a frozen yogurt swirl. I’m finning steadily, orbiting the stern of a ship, camera held level, trying to maintain a consistent distance from the structure while my bubbles trace lazy spirals toward the surface. This is not sightseeing. This is data collection. I am part of a 3D mapping project documenting Miami shipwrecks, a global effort that’s already underway at sites from Curaçao to Vanuatu.
Una autopista bajo el mar: Miami Beach sumerge decenas de coches para atraer fauna salvaje
Would you like to save this selection to obtain the price for similar content, of the same format, in the future? USA7500. MIAMI BEACH (ESTADOS UNIDOS), 14/01/2026.- Fotografía cedida por Reefline que muestra uno de los coches de hormigón que forma parte de una especie de autopista marina que se encuentra a poco más de seis metros de profundidad, en las aguas de Miami Beach (Estados Unidos).
DEEP Vanguard: Launching Humanity’s Permanent Presence In The Ocean
Humanity has long looked upward for wonder. To the stars, the moon, the endless black of space. At the reveal of DEEP’s inaugural subsea habitat, the first glimpse hints at a future where living underwater could be as routine as orbiting Earth. In a dimly lit Miami hangar, fog curls across the floor as a bright yellow vessel glows like a beacon. This is DEEP Vanguard, the first human-rated subsea habitat in nearly four decades.
Dive 1st Aid Introduces New Mermaid Dive Kit For Safety-Conscious Performers
Dive 1st Aid, well known for its high-quality first aid kits and emergency supplies for divers, has launched a new product designed specifically for the growing mermaiding community: the Mermaid Dive Kit. While mermaiding has exploded in popularity, performers have not had many industry-standard safety kits tailored to their needs. The new kit was created with that gap in mind.
DIVEVOLK Launches The SeaLink Underwater Data Transmitter
After two years of previews at DEMA Show, DIVEVOLK’s SeaLink Transmitter is officially launching into the market. The device is an underwater smartphone data transmitter that provides real-time internet access underwater, enabling full mobile use, live streaming and even video calls. DIVEVOLK has also introduced a full-face mask Bluetooth connection, allowing divers to speak during underwater video calls or live streams by transmitting audio from the mask directly to the phone inside the housing.
DIVEVOLK Launches New Accessories For Underwater Touchscreen Housing
DIVEVOLK is expanding its lineup of underwater photography tools with several new accessories designed for precision and ease of use. First up is the Underwater External Shutter. Macro photographers often need to be extremely close to their subjects, and pressing a traditional membrane on the screen can create unwanted camera shake, causing images to go out of focus. This new external shutter allows a gentle trigger press to take photos or start recording, improving stability for delicate shots.
Sharkskin Expands Into Swimwear With New Thermal Flex Line
Sharkskin is expanding beyond its core watersports gear with the launch of its new Swim category, introducing the Thermal Flex performance line in Spring 2026. Designed for open-water swimmers and other water athletes, the range combines compression nylon for muscle endurance and recovery with the company’s titanium infusion technology, which reflects body heat to provide lightweight warmth.
Reef Check And Surf-Fur Team Up For Polar Bear Plunge
From November 27 to January 4, 2025, the Reef Check Foundation and Surf-Fur along with Miss Scuba are hosting a virtual polar plunge. Called the “Reef Check Freeze Off,” anyone from around the globe can participate. Find some water, jump in and then challenge three people to take the plunge.
The SS United States Is Destined For Destin, Florida
In an ambitious move to expand Florida’s artificial reef program, the historic SS United States is set to find a new home beneath the waves off the coast of Destin, located in the Florida Panhandle. Originally launched in the 1950s as both a luxury ocean liner and a potential troop carrier, the SS United States still holds the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing. Now, her legacy will continue underwater as the centerpiece of what will become the world’s largest artificial reef.
Brave-ish And Beyond: Lisa Niver On The Courage To Continue
Many people talk about the courage to begin, but what about the courage to continue? Lisa Niver returns to DEMA Show in Orlando this year with her timeless message of bravery, reminding us that “brave” is relative, unique to each diver and dreamer. While some divers may chase sharks with ease, others might find courage in simply getting back in the water. As Niver says: “Bravery is the willingness to keep going when the outcome is not guaranteed.
The Invasive Fin: Turning Lionfish Into Ocean-Loving Jewelry
At DEMA Show 2025, jewelry brand The Invasive Fin is catching eyes and saving reefs. Founded by Brittany Diorio in St. Croix, USVI, the brand transforms fins from invasive lionfish into sleek, ocean-inspired jewelry and accessories. Every piece features real lionfish fins — tail, pectoral or pelvic — giving each its own natural pattern and color. The designs range from earrings and necklaces to bottle-opener keychains, cufflinks and even golf ball markers.
Nauticam Introduces Mid-Range Focus Optimizer 3 (MFO-3)
Nauticam has released the Mid-Range Focus Optimizer 3 (MFO-3) which is designed to convert longer full-frame macro lenses like the Sony 90mm, Canon 100mm or Nikon 105mm to an approximately 60mm lens. This allows for a wider view for close-focusing. For the Sony E-Mounts or the Canon RF mirrorless cameras, there is no native 60mm lens that exists. This is a perfect blackwater photography solution.
Exploring Martinique Through the Elements: A Journey into Wind, Fire, Water, and Earth
Martinique doesn’t just sit in the sea; it rises from it. Born of fire, carved by water, rooted in earth, and shaped by the wind. I came for the water, for the diving, but what I found was more layered and endlessly compelling. The island speaks through its elements. Each holds a story. The winds carried warships. They carried enslaved people. And celebration too. Feeling the trade winds whip across my face, it’s impossible not to sense the island’s layered history.
A Taste Of Martinique: Wrecks, Reefs, And Rum
On my first night in Martinique, I ate lionfish ceviche to the sound of soothing surf and a man in short shorts pouring rum as if it were holy water. It was an introduction I hadn’t expected, especially on a dive trip. If I had to describe Martinique in one word, it would be colorful. I arrived with little background, just an open palate, and what followed was a tasting menu of the island. Reefs and wrecks layered with history. Ti’ punch shared with strangers. Rainbows before volcanic peaks.
Island Cultures & Our World Ocean Film Festival Illuminates Key Biscayne
As the brilliant blue Miami sky deepens into twilight, I find myself standing in the back of Paradise Park on Key Biscayne, taking in the scene. The iconic Cape Florida lighthouse logo glows on the big screen as the crowd settles into their white chairs lined neatly across the grass. The buttery aroma from the vintage popcorn machine floats on the breeze, mingling with the faint scent of the ocean. It’s opening night of the Key Biscayne Film Festival, and the excitement is palpable.
DIVEVOLK Expands Its Underwater Smartphone Line Original
DIVEVOLK continues to innovate with its popular underwater smartphone touch screen housing, now updated to support the iPhone 16 series. The housing, showcased at this year’s DEMA Show in Las Vegas, also comes in two new eye-catching colors: Dreamy Pink and Starlight Grey. Renowned for its full touchscreen capability, the housing allows divers to use every function of their phone, including the native camera and advanced features like boost mode, which requires a simple swipe on the device.
Dive Into the National Marine Sanctuary System
The National Marine Sanctuary (NMS) system is the USA’s collection of underwater parks, spanning the surrounding oceans and Great Lakes. Open to public recreation and exploration, they invite people to experience the awe of the marine environment while promoting sustainable recreational use. There are currently 17 national marine sanctuaries and two marine national monuments within the system, each providing a level of protection to significant cultural, historical and ecological resources.
From Lionfish Derbies To Reef Debris: How ZooKeeper Combines Fun And Conservation
ZooKeeper isn’t just about creating innovative tools — they’re leading the charge in lionfish management and ocean conservation. At this year’s DEMA Show, they reinforced their commitment to protecting marine ecosystems while making lionfish hunting and underwater cleanups more accessible and enjoyable. Supporting over 20 lionfish derbies and events annually across Florida, ZooKeeper plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the lionfish invasion.
ZooKeeper Launches New, Updated Collapsible Travel Pole Spear
The folks at ZooKeeper showcased a new, updated, collapsible travel pole spear at this year’s DEMA Show in Las Vegas. The pole spear is a follow-up to their popular, entry-level sling spear introduced last year. This new model is perfect for traveling divers, as it disassembles for easy packing. Available in two variations — with or without barbs — the spear retails for US$110/~€106 (no barbs) or $115/~€110 (with barbs) and is expected to hit the market in mid-to-late January.
Peek Behind The Making Of 'Secrets Of The Octopus' With Cristian Dimitrius And Maxwel Hohn
At DEMA Show’s Resource Center, a snapshot session offered attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the National Geographic Disney+ three-part series “Secrets of the Octopus.” Filmed across multiple locations with several octopus species over 18 months, the production involved over eight cinematographers and an international team.
ZooKeeper Launches Limited-Edition Red Lionfish Containment Unit
At this year’s DEMA Show in Las Vegas, ZooKeeper is bringing exciting updates to their product line, as a go-to brand for lionfish hunting and underwater clean-up tools. Known for their solutions to combat the invasive lionfish species, ZooKeeper is now offering divers more options for functionality and style. One of the highlights this year is the launch of a limited-edition, red ZooKeeper containment unit, which has quickly become a favorite among attendees.
Anguilla Debuts At DEMA
For the first time, Anguilla is stepping into the diving spotlight at this year’s DEMA Show, introducing its pristine underwater offerings as a pillar of its tourism strategy. With the tagline “Lose the Crowd, Find Adventure,“ this tranquil Caribbean island promises an exclusive and serene diving experience, untouched by commercialism or cruise ship traffic.
Nemo’z Diving In Moorea Launches Freediving Center – Bluenery Academy - DeeperBlue.com
Nemo’z Diving, a renowned dive operator in Moorea, French Polynesia for over 26 years, has taken a new step with the introduction of a dedicated freediving center within their dive shop. Officially launched on November 3, 2024, the center is a first of its kind in Moorea, offering freediving opportunities every day. This exciting new venture is a partnership with Bluenery Academy, founded by world champion freediver Guillaume Néry.
DEMA Show Reintroduces The Undersea Grand Prix Treasure Hunt
This year’s DEMA Show is buzzing with excitement thanks to the return of the Undersea Grand Prix Treasure Hunt. Inspired by the Formula 1 event happening simultaneously in Las Vegas, this interactive game takes attendees on a race across the show floor. Participants search for checkered flags at designated “pit stops” hosted by participating exhibitors.
Discover St. Eustatius: Dive Into Adventure At The Eco-Luxury Golden Rock Dive And Nature Resort
As I descend into the blue waters surrounding Statia, a hidden corner of the Dutch Caribbean, I relish escaping the chaos of modern life into a world where history, nature, and serenity converge. St. Eustatius, locally known as Statia, is a tiny 8 square miles (21 square kilometers) volcanic island in the Lesser Antilles. It takes pride in its absence of global commercialism and mass tourism – no fast food chains, cruise ships, or crowds.
Loreto: The Magic Town On The Sea Of Cortez
Divers are well aware of the wonders of the Sea of Cortez. The azure waters host more than 900 varieties of fish, numerous marine mammals, and countless sea creatures that attract ocean enthusiasts all year round. However, a tranquil destination in Baja California Sur is relatively unknown: Loreto. Away from the lively hype and crowds of popular tourist sites, Loreto is a small, traditional Mexican town that beams from its abundance of wildlife, beauty, culture, and history.
Dive Ninjas Launching New Local Kids' Program In Cabo, Mexico
Dive Ninja Expeditions announced at DEMA Show 2023 in New Orleans that it is launching a new kid’s program in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico to introduce local youth to the dive industry. It’s designed as a 9-10 month mentorship program where the students will become dive instructors and learn different aspects of the industry (like logistics and operations, reservations and sales, running boats, etc.) as well as spend time with ocean researchers.
SEAC Launches New Fin Technology
SEAC is launching their new FRC technology – Fully Responsive Compound – for freediving fins at this year’s DEMA Show in New Orleans. It’s a softer and more reactive plastic. The result is a very flexible fin with a similar property of the carbon fiber composite, but not as fragile or at risk of structural deformation. The material is used in the SEAC BM-30 Fins which also features short ribs to make them more flexible and reactive. The blade is angled at 30 degrees.
Salvimar Showcases New Wetsuits At DEMA Show 2023
Salvimar is showing off their new 2-piece freediving and spearfishing wetsuits at DEMA Show this year. The suits feature an ultrastretch open-cell neoprene with an integrated hood and high-waist pants. They have a loading nonstick finish in the chest, as well as a beavertail style with double clips, which are replaceable.
Check Out SCUBAPRO's New Rapid-Response BC
At this week’s DEMA Show in New Orleans, SCUBAPRO showcased its new Rapid System (SRS) quick-response, vest-style buoyancy compensator. The BC features a MOLLE system to attach a variety of accessories. It’s ideal for rescue teams, public safety divers or commercial divers who need to act quickly. The base model includes the air cell, tank (shipped separately), regulator and gauges in a soft case bag. Other accessories, such as knives, lights and helmet will be sold separately.
Kicking Into New Fin Styles With Scubapro
Scubapro has several new fins on the market that we got to check out at DEMA Show 2023. The Seawing Supernova features a modular system so the fins can be taken apart. Divers can now effortlessly switch between an open heel and full foot configuration, adapting to the demands of different diving environments. This also makes them more convenient to pack for travel. Priced at US$299/~€274, the Seawing Supernova fins (full foot and standard paddle blade) are available in all-black or white.
Scubapro Celebrates 60th Anniversary With Limited-Edition G3 Dive Computer And Regulator
SCUBAPRO is back at DEMA Show this year celebrating their 60th Anniversary. As such, they are releasing two special, limited-edition anniversary items that come in a beautifully crafted box. These items feature red accents to pay homage to the early styles of SCUBAPRO products. The MK25/S620 Ti regulator has a black tech coating and red trim. Only 1,963 units (the year the company was founded) are available for US$2,200/~€2,019. The Galileo 3 (G3) is a new dive computer with a red dial.
Nauticam Debuts A First: Full Frame Fisheye Zoom
Nauticam is gearing up to release the Fisheye Conversion Port (FCP), which converts the field of view to a fisheye zoom. A fisheye zoom has never existed for a full-frame camera before. This means a 28-60mm zoom lens converts to a fisheye zoom lens with a respective 180–130 degree field of view. This innovation promises sharper images compared to a traditional dome port. The FCP is a dry mount water contact optic that is compatible with the DSLR and mirrorless housings.
Solomon Islands Showcases New Diving With Papatura Island Retreat
The Solomon Islands, situated in the South Pacific, offer a unique and diverse diving experience. The region is known for its vibrant coral reefs, a plethora of fish species and numerous World War II wrecks. The islands hold much history below and above the surface. Papatura Island Retreat, which recently began dive operations, is actively exploring new dive sites. They have identified many new dive sites with beautiful walls, dropoffs, caverns and unchartered wrecks.
Golden Rock Resort Showcases Statia Divers At DEMA Show 2023
Statia Divers is a new dive center created by Golden Rock Resort on the Dutch Caribbean island of St. Eustatius. Boasting a valet diving service, they aim to provide a high level of individual attention, ensuring an enjoyable diving adventure for everyone. The dive options offered by Statia Divers range from beginners to experienced individuals. They provide fun dives and courses from “Discover Scuba” to advanced PADI courses like Divemaster, along with specialty programs such as Mermaid Diver.
Divevolk Is Expanding Underwater Communications
The Divevolk SeaTouch Housing for smartphones has reached its fourth generation, catering to both iPhone and Android. Featuring patented touchscreen membrane technology, this housing enables access to all phone functions when submerged underwater. An exciting addition for 2024 is the integrated mobile signal transmitter, enhancing the capabilities of these smartphone housings.
Five Years with the Shark Research and Conservation Program at the University of Miami
Photos Courtesy of Nola Schoder and University of Miami Shark Research and Conservation Program This summer 2023 marks our fifth year of collaboration with the Shark Research and Conservation Program (SRC) at The University of Miami Rosentiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science.
New wave of animal oceanographers aids researcher
As the first streams of satellite data appeared on her computer monitor, University of Miami marine scientist Laura McDonnell thought one of the datapoints she began to analyze was an error—1,496 meters, the number read. That’s how deep one of the oceanographers McDonnell had recruited to help her study the Gulf Stream had dived off the coast of Cape Cod. Could it be? A nearly mile-deep descent without the use of a deep-sea submersible? The number, as she would later confirm, was spot on.
All Star Liveaboards Add New Boat In Red Sea And Re-Launch To Cuba
All Star Liveaboards, now in their 43rd year, are expanding their fleet, with itineraries in the Red Sea as well as Cuba. The Red Sea has a brand-new 159ft (48.5m) vessel that splashes in March 2023. It will be a luxurious liveaboard with great amenities like a swimming pool and jacuzzi. Every cabin is main deck and above with large ocean view windows.
The Cayman Islands Are Fully Open For Dive Travel
The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism is at this year’s DEMA Show in Orlando, Florida with several of their partners to showcase this amazing destination. Yes, the three islands are back and fully open with no restrictions! Ocean Cabanas opened this year on Grand Cayman. It’s located in the heart of the seven-mile beach area in West Bay. There are seven cabanas that range from US$250 – $650 (~€250 – ~€651) per night.
Mermaid Linden Rolls Out New Adult Monofin Colorways For 2023
The Mermaid Linden adult monofin by Body Glove will have a new color in 2023. We can’t reveal the new color quite yet, but stay tuned. One color will be dropped, though. Currently the monofins are available in Caribbean blue, ultramarine purple and key lime green. Also coming in 2023 are limited-edition colors that will be available exclusively on www.mermaidlinden.com. More unisex colors with men in mind will also be rolled out soon.
Aggressor Launches Their New Brand Floating Resort In The Red Sea
New to the Aggressor Fleet is the “Floating Resort” with its debut in the Red Sea. The idea is to partner with a land-based resort to offer additional actives outside of scuba diving. This is a great way to explore the dive destinations divers love so much as well as tie in land activities like a visit to the bazaar or the ruins. Hurghada, Egypt is the home for the world’s first “Floating Resort” that launches in March 2023.
61st NOGI Awards Gala Honors Recipients At DEMA Show 2022
The Academy of Underwater Arts and Sciences (AUAS) hosted the 61st NOGI Awards Gala at this week’s DEMA Show in Orlando, Florida. The recipients of the prestigious NOGI Awards are exceptional pioneers and leaders being recognized for their remarkable contributions to all fields of the underwater world. The 2022 recipients are Dr. John Clarke (Science), Jack and Sue Drafahl (Sports/Education), Dr. Albert Jose Jones (Distinguished Service), Harry Rabin (Environment) and Adam Ravetch (Arts).
Sea Of Change Foundation Holding Online Auction To The Red Sea And Nile River
Aggressor Adventures and Scuba Schools International have teamed up to raise funds for the Sea of Change Foundation with an Online Auction. Entries are open now through November 13th, 2022 to win a two-week trip for two. This includes a seven-night scuba adventure on the Red Sea Aggressor III and a five-night Nile Queen River Cruise. This trip is valued at over US$8,000/~€8,200. Auction tickets are $50/~€51 each and only 1,000 are being sold.
The Scuba Magician Adds Magic To Your Scuba Adventures And Training
The Scuba Magician empowers divers with scuba related magic. Their philosophy follows the five M’s: “Magic Makes the Message More Memorable.” Scuba Magician is a PADI Distinctive Specialty created by Chef Anton that was launched last year. It is a one-day certification course that counts toward Master Diver. The magic has been designed to be done underwater, for safety, and for amateurs that want to add things to enhance the dive.
COARE Receives DEMA Community Championship Award For Their Environmental Initiatives
The Center for Oceanic Awareness Research and Education is back at DEMA Show for their 15th year, receiving the DEMA Community Championship Award. COARE won the Gold Prize for their Green Divers for Blue Oceans program and their international efforts to reduce plastics.
Oceana Launches National Business Coalition For The Ocean
Ocean advocacy organization Oceana has created the National Business Coalition for the Ocean to unite businesses to support policies intended to protect the ocean. Formed earlier this year, the coalition leverages the voices of businesses to help win policy victories. Any size business across the United States is encouraged to join, including restaurants, scuba dive operators, or any specialty is welcome.
Dive Pirates Seeing Possibilities For Adaptive Divers
The Dive Pirates Foundation is a non-profit organization working with people with mobility disabilities to teach them to dive. Their slogan is “We no longer see disabilities; we see possibilities.” They help persons with a range of injuries get into the water through adaptive diving. The foundation covers the recipient’s training and equipment while offering support every step of the way. After proper training, the recipients go on a trip of a lifetime.
Golden Rock: The 'Hidden Secret Gem Of The Caribbean'
Golden Rock Dive and Nature Resort is a new luxury destination on St. Eustatius (called “Statia”). The resort offers lush gardens, sustainably powered comforts, and rejuvenating activities. The diving offers vibrant reefs, shipwrecks, and great marine life encounters. It is nestled in the Caribbean between St. Barts, St. Maarten, St. Kitts and Saba. Flights generally fly to neighboring islands followed by a puddle jumper flight or ferry ride to this hidden gem.
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