Once upon a time, when we were drafting and tinkering with the design and editorial profile of this magazine before it was launched, I had already made the observation that American dive magazines focused predominantly on US dive sites, the Caribbean and some Pacific destinations, while European magazines were mainly centred on local dive sites, the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, with the occasional mention of the Maldives or Thailand.

In other words, the media on each continent was largely north-south oriented, not east-west. Over 20 years ago, long-distance travel was more exotic and costly, and dive magazines had to cater to local audiences with relevant information. The latter still applies today, except that the audience is now anything but local, thanks to the internet.

In any case, we decided to offer a different mix of content. Not only did we cover European dive sites for North Americans, but we also invited contributors from North America to report on European dive destinations. Likewise, we included stories from other parts of the world for our European and Asian audiences.
The editorial profile was quite well received, and the rest, as they say, is history. Mission accomplished.

And yet, not quite. I still often encounter surprised faces when I ask US counterparts if they have dived in Europe or have ever considered doing a dive trip there. “One can dive in Europe?!” is a common response, prompting a silent facepalm from me. Sigh.

While Southeast Asia’s Coral Triangle may be unmatched in terms of biodiversity, Europe offers a wealth of diverse dive destinations. The continent includes 44 countries, 35 of which have coastlines, and several landlocked nations offer excellent mountain lake diving. From the Mediterranean to the North Cape, there is a vast array of opportunities.

What sets Europe apart is its unique history and cultural diversity. With over 200 languages and more than 300 dialects, the continent’s long history spans from early human migration through the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages to classical antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Industrial Revolution and beyond.

What does this have to do with diving? History is not only visible in the towns and countryside—it can also be found on the seabed. Artefacts from the Stone Age, antique ceramics, amphorae and even ships from antiquity are waiting to be discovered. How about a Viking ship or a nearly intact Dutch flute in the Baltic Sea? And there are numerous warships, submarines and aircraft from the world wars and other conflicts scattered across the seabed.

Topside, Europe offers an unmatched lifestyle, with each region celebrating the joys of living well. From leisurely meals in Mediterranean cafés to vibrant festivals, art and music, Europe invites you to embrace its cultural richness. It is a place where the pleasures of good food, nature and great company are at the heart of everyday life, creating a fulfilling, balanced experience that goes beyond mere sightseeing or just diving. It is the blend of the worlds above and below the surface that is unique. Try it if you haven’t already, or come back and see a different location.

— Peter Symes
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief