The AqUA Underwater Trail in Bale
Young beginners immersed themselves in scuba diving, reveling in the breathtaking beauty of the sea to attain their first diving certification. As part of the European project AqUA – Adriatic Underwater Academy, co-financed by the European Union and led by the diving club “Roniti se mora” from Zagreb, in collaboration with the host, The Old Diver diving center, an underwater educational trail was established, and a trial dive was organized for the students of Juraj Dobrila Elementary School in Rovinj, Bale branch.
One of the project’s objectives is to introduce young divers to the richness of the Adriatic Sea ecosystem through an educational trail consisting of 30 panels describing various aspects of marine life. This trail, intended not only for the school group but also for beachgoers at Colona Camp, Mon Perin in Bale, welcomes visitors of all ages who are proficient in swimming and using a mask and snorkel. The joy and excitement of the children were boundless. Despite their familiarity with the “deep blue,” this marked their first serious immersion into the underwater world, allowing young novices to experience weightlessness and the astonishing beauty of the sea without the extensive training required for a diving certification.
Under the guidance of experienced diving instructors, participants familiarized themselves with basic diving principles, including equipment usage, safety protocols, and underwater communication. Displaying the “OK” sign eagerly and equipped with the necessary gear, they dove into the unknown, embarking on a new and thrilling adventure. Skillfully overcoming the challenges of the first breath through the regulator underwater and pressure compensation at a depth, these young participants reached the installed panels and received education at a depth of 3 meters.
One of the key advantages of underwater educational trails is their ability to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the sea. Apart from offering a unique and impressive learning experience, through educational content and interpretative materials, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and the threats they face. This knowledge can inspire individuals, especially the youngest ones, to become more environmentally conscious and take measures to protect our seas. Hence, one of the panels displays invasive species increasingly encountered in the Adriatic, disrupting the ecosystem to which we are accustomed.
The Old Diver diving center has been organizing trial dives at the beginning of summer in collaboration with the Association “Naša djeca Kanfanar i Rešetari” for several years, with the assistance of Rovinj Fire Department personnel and divers from the intervention police of the Istrian County. This year, in collaboration with our celebrated underwater photographer Damir Zuruba, we organized a trial dive for children from Bale, aged 9 to 13,” said Marko Srečec, instructor, and owner of this diving center.
The allure of diving lies in the opportunity to firsthand witness the enchanting marine ecosystems beneath the surface. From small fish, crabs, and algae in the shallows to graceful sea turtles gliding through the water, each dive is a chance to encounter a diverse array of marine species in their natural habitat. However, it’s not just the visual spectacle that captivates divers. The sensation of weightlessness creates a feeling of freedom and peace unparalleled by any other. The rhythmic sound of one’s breath synchronized with the ocean waves allows the diver to disconnect from the external world and merge with the underwater realm.
However, a discovery dive is not without its challenges. Navigating the depths requires a certain level of physical and mental endurance, as well as the ability to adapt to a new environment. Nevertheless, these challenges are precisely what makes the experience valuable. Overcoming fears, pushing personal boundaries, and gaining a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of marine ecosystems are just some of the lessons awaiting those who dare to take this step.
It’s an understatement to say that the children emerged from the sea with broad smiles. Enthralled by the new experience, they inspired several more parents on the beach to request Marko and Damir to allow their children to try diving. Of course, their wish was granted, and several more delighted faces emerged from the sea.
