Ecological Conduct Code

Ecological Conduct Code of Our Divers

Learn in detail the biological and historical characteristics of the area where the dive takes place. This knowledge will help you to understand what you will see underwater and will augment the diving experience. It will also enable you to pursue the behavior that is most in keeping with the protection of the biological and cultural resources that will be visited.

Confirm that you have all necessary diving equipment and that it is in working order.

Control your buoyancy during the dive so that your fins do not enter into direct contact with the corals. Polyps are sensitive creatures and hitting them will result in irreversible damage. The marine depths also contain minute creatures that need you to pay attention so as not to endanger their habitat.

Limit your movements so that your progress in the waters is harmonious and cautious. If you spray the coral reef with sand from your movements, it will be deposited on the corals, sponges and other organisms that have a limited ability to clean sediments and this may cause them to suffocate.

Avoid touching any sea organism during your dive and, likewise, avoid kneeling or walking on the corals. These lifeforms are fragile and need your cooperation to maintain healthy activity.

Be sure that your second regulator is secure. This way you will be certain that it does not drag on the life forms that inhabit the reef and will also guarantee your safety during the dive.

It is unwise to feed the marine creatures as this interferes with their natural feeding processes. Also avoid killing or breaking sea urchins or any other form of marine life to provide food for fish. These practices, although seen in some documentaries, are now regarded as obsolete as we have observed the damage they cause the reef fauna.

Refrain from collecting souvenirs during your dive. Any object that is part of the reef is vital for its conservation. - empty shells are used by other creatures as shelter.

When taking underwater photography, avoid placing the camera in any area that may cause damage to the living reef.

Touching certain corals or algae may cause unpleasant skin reactions because of stinging cells which some of these life forms possess.

Cultural artifacts found underwater: cannons, anchors, ceramic etc., are witness to our past. Respect these artifacts without touching them, as the longer they are submerged the more fragile they become.

Spear fishing is strictly forbidden in the dive sites along Bayahibe and the Parque Nacional del Este. This activity is left to traditional fishermen who in their day did so for food in regions destined for this type of fishing.

Garbage is one of the worst enemies of the marine environment, avoid contaminating dive sites. Any food or beverage should be collected as well as plastics, cans and bottles found underwater during your dive.

Enjoy your dive and compare your experience with friends. The underwater world of Bayahibe and Parque Nacional del Este await to experiences.