From MBA to the depths: My Journey into the Ocean

Hello, fellow ocean enthusiasts and curious minds! Welcome to Marks Macros. Today, I want to share a bit about my journey from the corporate world to the mesmerizing underwater realm.

After completing my Master's in Business Administration, I found myself yearning for something more than boardrooms and business meetings. A longstanding fear of open water had always held me back, but I decided it was time to confront it head-on. Little did I know that this decision would spark a passion that would change my life forever.

Graduation day

After a long journey, with a lot of study and late nights, was very happy to be graduating with my Masters degree.

Kitted up

All ready to go exploring in my Scuba gear on a recent trip to Pemuteran, Indonesia.

My first dive into the open water was both terrifying and exhilarating. As I descended with scuba gear for the first time, I felt a mix of anxiety and awe. The turning point came when I encountered a tiny yet captivating creature—the Nudibranch. These colourful, alien-like sea slugs fascinated me with their delicate beauty and unique weirdness. From that moment, I was hooked.

Colourful nudibranch with striking black and white outlines - my favourite kind

Diving became more than a hobby; it was an obsession. I dedicated myself to learning how to photograph the incredible marine life I encountered, gathering all the right equipment, and always striving to capture their essence and intricacies. Nudibranchs, with their vibrant hues and intricate patterns, became my favourite subjects. Each dive presented a new opportunity to explore, document, and share the wonders of the underwater world.

The ever growing photography kit

It started with a GoPro and an underwater case and grew after each dive: learning and honing further

But my journey didn't stop at photography. My love for the ocean also sparked a passion for travel and marine conservation. Exploring different dive sites around the world allowed me to witness the beauty and fragility of marine ecosystems. I realized that protecting these environments was crucial, and I wanted to contribute to their preservation.

Diving Destinations: A Global Adventure

My diving adventures have taken me to some of the most stunning underwater landscapes available. In Australia, I've explored the vibrant reefs of Cairns and Port Douglas, where the Great Barrier Reef showcases its unparalleled biodiversity. Closer to home in Melbourne, I've enjoyed the unique cold-water that reveals a different kind of marine life.

Indonesia has been a treasure trove of underwater experiences. The reefs of Pemuteran and the islands of Lembongan have offered me mesmerizing encounters with colourful corals and an abundance of fish species. Each dive in these locations is a testament to the rich marine life that Southeast Asia is known for.

Tegallengah - Indonesia

its not all scuba, sometimes you’ve just gotta get up before sunrise to swim with the local dolphins

Menjangan Island - Indonesia

Some of the most beautiful water I’ve seen, it was up there with the remote areas around Palawan region of the Philippines.

The Philippines has become a second home for my diving adventures. Maolboal's sardine run, the pristine beaches of Boracay, and the dramatic seascapes of El Nido have all left me in awe. My upcoming trip to Coron promises to be another thrilling chapter in my diving journey. The four-day expedition will allow me to explore the sunken Japanese warships from World War II, adding a historical dimension to my underwater explorations.

Through Marks Macros, I have found a way to combine my interests in diving, travel, photography, and conservation. This platform allows me to share my underwater adventures, stunning photographs, and insights into marine life and conservation efforts. I hope to inspire others to appreciate and protect our oceans, one dive at a time.

Thank you for joining me on this journey, I hope this has given you a bit of insight into me and my adventure so far. Stay tuned for more stories, tips, and breathtaking underwater photography. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that the ocean's wonders are preserved for future generations.

Happy diving!!

Mark