Bethany Crenshaw, a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) based in Alaska, is no stranger to conquering challenges—both in the ocean and within herself. Her diving journey began in the icy embrace of Alaska’s waters, where she completed every level of her training, from open-water student to instructor. Now, she channels her hard-earned expertise into empowering others, blending her twin passions for teaching and underwater photography.
Bethany’s path to becoming a dive professional is rooted in an unexpected place: fear. Initially terrified of water, she transformed her anxiety into a driving force to guide students through their own apprehensions. “Understanding fear makes me a better teacher,” she reflects. “When I see a nervous student, I remember where I started—and how far determination can take you.”
Alaska’s extreme conditions demand resilience. Winter ocean temperatures plummet to 33°F, requiring open-water students to don drysuits from their very first ocean dive. Visibility often dwindles to near darkness, even at midday, turning dives into nocturnal adventures. Here, Bethany emphasizes the critical role of reliable gear. “In Alaska, your equipment isn’t just a tool—it’s your lifeline,” she says. This philosophy led her to the OrcaTorch ZD710 MK2, a powerful light that revolutionized her work. Its bright beam cuts through murky waters, aiding student communication and illuminating the vibrant, often-overlooked subjects of her photography.
Now, Bethany is venturing into cave diving, where redundancy is non-negotiable. “In caves, light isn’t just for seeing—it’s for survival,” she explains. With plans to explore Alaska’s uncharted underwater caves in 2025, she trusts the OrcaTorch’s dual-light systems to provide the safety net she needs.
As Bethany prepares to navigate new frontiers, her story shines as a testament to courage and adaptability. Whether guiding a trembling beginner or capturing the ethereal beauty of a hidden cave, she proves that even the darkest waters can be illuminated—with the right light, and the right mindset.
Here’s to a luminous 2025, where Bethany’s adventures will undoubtedly inspire divers to face the unknown, one beam at a time.