James Glancy

An Interview with James Glancy

Tell us about yourself?

I'm James Glancy and I'm a filmmaker and conservationist. I host on Discovery Channel's 'Shark Week' and National Geographic, I formerly servied in the British Royal Marines, where I also worked as a Diver.

Why did you decide to take the giant stride into the oceans?

When I was 13 I learned to dive in Florida. That was a life changing moment, as it gave me my passion for sharks and the ocean.  I went on to join the military and become a combat diver, learning to dive with rebreathers in very challenging conditions.  I have now dived and made underwater films in 17 countries around the world. 

How has diving changed your life?

Diving has given me two careers.  I was inspired to join the Royal Marines by a Navy Seal Dive instructor.  Now I work as an underwater camera operator and presenter for National Geographic and Discovery.  Diving has brought me closer to marine life and given me a distinct understanding of the threats that face our oceans and the importance of campaigning to protect the seas, oceans and waterways around the world.

What kind of diving do you like to do?

I love diving with large charismatic species of sharks, whales and seals and making films about these incredible animals. 

If you had to pick one of the most amazing experiences underwater, what would it be?

Diving in the Galapagos around Darwin Island is truly mesmerizing however, I think my favorite experience was diving on a liveaboard on the Great Barrier Reef in 2004. That was before the mass coral bleaching events, the reefs were pristine and biodiversity was unbelievable, we saw a huge potato cod, minke whales, multiple shark species and stunning coral. 

Of your list of accomplishments in your diving career, what are you most proud of?

Becoming a Royal Marines combat diver. To become a combat diver in the Royal Navy you have to pass some of the toughest courses in the world.  The skills I gained in the military have allowed me to work in some of the most challenging conditions possible. 

Where are some of your favorite places underwater?

Any location that has been protected from over fishing and other environmental damage such as the Galapagos, parts of the Bahamas and Palau, are very special places to dive for me. 

What is your advice to someone considering diving?

Learning to dive is such a great life experience and I would encourage everyone to give it a go! It takes time to build experience and confidence underwater and not matter how long you've been diving, there's always more to learn.  I think you develop and advance the most when you dive in a variety of conditions and locations, that have different water temperatures, currents and visibility. 

Why do you think we should encourage more people to dive?

By learning to dive it brings people closer to the vital marine systems that help support life on Earth.  The more people appreciate and understand the underwater worlds, the more likely they are to want to preserve these crucial ecosystems. 

What would you tell people about the oceans?

The oceans are crucial for the health of planet Earth and they are home to some of the most beautiful and extraordinary animals ever to live, and that includes the Blue Whale - the largest creature to inhabit our planet!

Why is SCUBAPRO your choice of dive equipment?

SCUBAPRO is one of the leading dive brand in the market.  Their kit is used by dive and military professionals around the world because it is extremely well designed and manufactured. 

What does diving mean to you?

Diving is my escape from life, it's where I connect with the natural world, and it reminds me that we are part of a global ecosystem that we must protect. 

Follow James on Instagram: @jaglancy