Scuba Training. Redefined.
At NovoScuba, we’re on a mission to redefine the diving industry. With a deep-rooted passion for exploration and a commitment to innovation, we’re setting new standards in dive education.
Enriching lives and dive communities with partnership and innovation, one dive at a time
Meet Our Team
We’re divers first, educators second, and innovators always. NovoScuba is powered by a team that blends decades of underwater experience with a shared passion for change. From creating safer, smarter ways to learn, to building a global community of divers and pros, we’re united by one goal: to make diving more accessible, inclusive, and unforgettable for everyone.
Mark Spiers
Founder
Mark has spent over 30 years shaping the dive industry. From his early days as an instructor trainer and dive store owner to leading PADI’s Field Services across Asia Pacific and later running their EMEA office, he’s seen first-hand how the industry works — and where it falls short.
One frustration stood out: while course prices remained flat, the constant increases in training material costs were putting real pressure on dive stores and instructors. Mark knew this model wasn’t sustainable.
That experience drove him to create NovoScuba, a training agency built on doing things differently: fairer pricing, smarter digital learning, and real support for both divers and professionals. With his global insight and hands-on experience, Mark is redefining what modern scuba training should be.
Karin Straub
Operations
Karin is a seasoned dive operations professional whose passion for the underwater world has driven her to excel in a field that requires both expertise and fearlessness. She has made significant contributions to the exploration and understanding of the aquatic environment through years of experience and a commitment to safety and innovation.
Her contributions to the diving world go beyond individual achievements. She has inspired countless others to explore the depths of the ocean with reverence and respect through her expertise, passion and advocacy. Her legacy is a testament to the deep connection between humanity and the ocean. It is a reminder of the importance of preserving and cherishing the underwater realms of our planet.
Fern Perry
Business Development
Fern has a diving career spanning two decades. Starting out managing a bustling dive centre, she went on to own her own resort in Indonesia. In addition she developed a successful shark and safari combo operation in Southern and East Africa. She has taught both recreational and technical divers.
With extensive experience in start-up and development Fern is dedicated to the growth and success of NovoScuba. Fern is an avid apex predator diver, loving nothing more than spending her time with the Hammerheads, Tiger Sharks, and Bull Sharks found along the South African coastline. When not underwater Fern can often be found in the bush, camping and exploring the African interior.
Sara Roncati
Marketing
Sara is a senior professional with two decades of experience in marketing and communications. When not on a plane to a trade show or press conference, she can be found underwater. She’s been diving for 25 years, 22 of them as a professional, becoming a Master Instructor and perfecting the art of living two lives at once. This has made her a whiz at time management and planning.
An ocean ambassador, passionate sidemount diver and unwavering shark addict, she brings to NovoScuba a distinct ability to build brand reputation and trust.
Explore the Depths
Our Journey and Vision
At NovoScuba, we’re just getting started — but our path is already clear. Built on decades of dive industry experience, we’ve laid the foundation for something new: a modern, digital-first approach to scuba education.
2022 – The Spark
NovoScuba was founded with a simple belief: scuba training could be safer, smarter, and more accessible. With years of experience in the industry, our team set out to build a modern alternative to outdated approaches.
2023 – Building the Foundation
We developed a complete framework of courses and instructor standards, blending proven dive science with innovative digital learning. From the start, we committed to fair, transparent pricing so divers and pros get quality training without inflated costs.
2024 – Tested and Recognised
We put our courses to the test in the real world, ensuring they were educationally valid, fun, and safe. This year also brought international recognition, as NovoScuba earned ISO certification — a global mark of quality and professionalism.
2025 – Launching the Platform
This is the year divers and pros everywhere gain access to NovoScuba’s global e-learning platform. With multilingual courses, digital certifications, fair pricing in local currencies, and tools built for both divers and dive shops, we’re making high-quality training more accessible than ever.
Looking Ahead
Our journey has only just begun. The next phase is about expanding partnerships with dive shops worldwide, growing our pro network, and continuing to innovate with sustainability and inclusivity at the heart of everything we do.