SCUBA April 2026 issue 164 | Page 12

SCUBAHUB

A feast of fests!

IF YOU’ RE PLANNING YOUR DIVING calendar for the year ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be something special. BSAC is supporting a packed programme of diving festivals and other activity events across the UK, bringing together scuba divers, snorkellers, clubs and ocean advocates. Whether you’ re looking to explore new inland sites, connect with fellow members, or play your part in protecting our seas, there’ s something for everyone.
Here are the key dates for your 2026 diary:
Midlands Scoob & Snork Fest
Spring Lakes- 25 July 2026 Taking place at Spring Lakes near Nottingham, the Midlands Scoob & Snork Fest returns for its second year. Attendees can expect:
■ Andy Torbet dropping in
■ Try dives and snorkelling sessions
■ Food, a DJ, club diving and networking
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North West Dive Fest
Capernwray- 28 August 2026 Hosted at Capernwray Diving Centre in Lancashire, this late-summer dive fest is a highlight for northern members. With easyaccess diving, underwater attractions and a welcoming community feel, North West Dive Fest is ideal for:
■ Skills refreshers
■ Exploring a top UK inland dive site
■ Ending the summer dive season in style
Kernow Dive Festival
Cornwall- 5 – 7 June 2026 The Kernow Dive Festival is a brilliant mix of diving, exhibitors, talks and social events, all set against a stunning coastal backdrop. Currently fully booked, attendees can expect to:
■ Meet fellow BSAC members from across the region
■ Discover new kit and training opportunities
■ Celebrate the vibrant UK diving community
Scotland’ s Snorkel Festival
June( date to be confirmed) Scotland’ s first snorkelling festival, launched in partnership with the Berwickshire Marine Reserve, the Scottish Wildlife Trust and BSAC Snorkel Centres, returns in 2026. What began as a passionate gathering of snorkellers in Berwickshire is now expanding to multiple sites across Scotland.
More details on locations and dates will be announced soon.
Protect what we love: Environmental Action Days
Diving isn’ t just about exploring the underwater world – it’ s about protecting it, too. Throughout 2026, BSAC is supporting a series of conservation-focused action days for members to take part in.
Invasive Species Action Days
21 March, 11 April, 12 May, 7 June These hands-on events tackle invasive non-native species that threaten UK marine and freshwater ecosystems. By getting involved, you can:
■ Contribute to vital citizen science and dive with a purpose
■ Help protect native habitats
■ Work alongside fellow divers and environmental partners
Marine Champion Action Days
16 – 17 May, 11 – 12 July, 1 – 2 August, 5 – 6 September BSAC’ s Marine Champions play a key role in local conservation efforts, beach cleans, awareness campaigns and community engagement.
These action weekends are perfect for members who:
■ Care deeply about marine protection
■ Want to lead or support local initiatives
■ Are looking to expand their involvement beyond recreational diving or snorkelling
Whether you’ re already a Marine Champion or curious about becoming one, these dates are a great place to start.
Fun and adventure in 2026
Make 2026 the year you get involved … keep an eye on official BSAC channels for event booking details and start rallying your club buddies now.
For more information, go to bsac. com / divefests2026