News
We should not take marine life for granted, says nature and wildlife illustrator Millie Marotta
Bestselling illustrator Millie Marotta has joined forces with the Marine Conservation Society to launch a national month-long colouring campaign for ‘national parks of the sea’. The nature inspired illustrator from Pembrokeshire whose latest book, Curious Creatures, uncovers the world’s most visually fascinating underwater species, said that we were at risk of taking its diverse marine life for granted.
Millie says: “I live in the UK’s only coastal national park and feel incredibly lucky to have such beautiful beaches and amazing marine wildlife so close by. Here in the UK we have a very rich and diverse array of wildlife both in and around our seas and we must not take that for granted. With so many threats these days to our marine environment and its inhabitants I feel it’s important that we do whatever we can to protect these species and ensure the future health of our seas. The Marine Conservation Society’s campaign to create and manage more Marine Protected Areas in the UK means that more of our seas will have the protection needed for species to recover and thrive. This is a hugely important campaign and one that I wholeheartedly support.”
In addition to signing the Marine Conservation Society’s petition, Millie is urging the public to colour and share her illustration of the hermit crab, a favourite of rock-pool enthusiasts, and commonly found in the shores and depths of the British coast, with the hashtag #helpthehermit.
Rachel Alcock, Senior Campaigner, Marine Conservation Society, said: “Many of us are often surprised by the incredible animals and plants found in the seas around the UK. Our seas are rich with unique species, shimmering shoals and reefs teeming with life. It is wonderful that Millie has signed our petition and we ask that everyone who enjoys colouring in her beautiful illustrations signs too. We are calling on decision makers across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to protect these treasures by designating and properly managing Marine Protected Areas”.
How to be part of ‘colouring for conservation’
Sign – Support the Marine Conservation Society’s petition for Marine Protected Areas: www.mcsuk.org/colouring
Colour – Download and colour Millie Marotta’s exclusive hermit crab illustration from @milliemarotta on Facebook
Share – Post on social media using #helpthehermit. Tag the Marine Conservation Society on Twitter @mcsuk, or on Instragram at @MCS_UK, or send to Millie on her Facebook page @milliemarotta for the chance to have your colouring shared with her 20,000+ fans!
Colouring for conservation: Millie will be using Facebook to share important facts about the campaign for Marine Protected Areas.
Which areas of sea should be protected? Why? What lives there?
The Mid St George’s Channel covers an area of 761km2, and the zone lies between Wales and the Republic of Ireland. The sand and gravel that is found here supports populations of annelid worms, clams and crustaceans. Breeding seabirds, whales and dolphins are often seen feeding in the waters above. Pressure needs to be kept up to ensure that this area is designated as a protected site.
The colourfully named Mud Hole is an offshore site measuring 72 km². It is around 35m deep, and is located 21km off the coast of Cumbria. Within this area there are a variety of features including Sea-pens and the rare to this area Burrowing Megafauna. If designated this site could allow for recovery of this highly sensitive area. Defra have the opportunity to safeguard this area by designating it as a Marine Protected Area. It is vital that they do just that next year.
Located on the East Sussex coastline, the proposed Marine Conservation Zone Beachy Head East contains a very important chalk reef. This area supports a range of animals including Ross coral. The Mussel beds found here are considered to be one of the best examples of this habitat in the region. Blue mussel beds are known to be important for water quality, act as a food source for sea birds, and even help with to coastal protection. It is vital that Defra properly protect Beachy Head East by making it a Marine Protected Area next year.
The Faroe-Shetland Sponge Belt Marine Protected Area is located to the west of the Shetland Islands on the Scottish side of the Faroe-Shetland Channel. It was designated as a Nature Conservation Marine Protected Area in 2014 which is fantastic. However, it is now vital that management measures are put in place to ensure that this special area is well looked after.
Help hermit and his habitat: bring Millie’s hermit crab to life by downloading and colouring him in.
- Download him from the Pavillion website from September 14th
- Post on social media using #helpthehermit. Tag the Marine Conservation Society on Twitter @mcsuk, or on Instragram at @MCS_UK, or send to Millie on her Facebook page @milliemarotta for the chance to have your colouring shared with her 20,000+ fans!
Visit www.mcsuk.org/colouring to find out how to sign the petition.
Ho Ho Ho! Vobster Quay’s recording-breaking charity Santa diving event returns on Sunday 15th December 2024 for another round of festive fundraising frivolities. Run in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes, this ever-popular annual fundraising event aims to raise sack-loads of cash for these two very deserving charities.
Divers of all levels are invited to grab their Santa outfits – and as much festive cheer as they can muster – and head down to Vobster Quay near Mells, Somerset for a mass sponsored Santa dive in aid of charity. In previous years, the event has attracted divers from the far corners of the UK to join in the festive merriment for a final festive dive before the Christmas and New Year break. Back in 2015, the event smashed the world record for the most Santa divers with 188 divers taking to the waters donning their festive finery – a record that remains unbeaten to this day!
Vobster Santas isn’t just about setting records – it’s also about raising some serious cash for charity. Vobster Quay encourages all divers to get into the spirit of the season to raise much-needed funds for two very deserving charities – the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes.
Through individual sponsorship and online donations, divers can invite their friends, family and work colleagues to sponsor them to plunge into the balmy waters of Vobster Quay dressed in full festive finery. Since the very first Santa dive in 2007, the event has raised over £52,000 for charity. “It’s been over 17 years since the very first charity Santa dive took place at Vobster Quay and every year the event just keeps getting bigger and better” enthused Vobster Quay owner, Amy Stanton.
“Vobster Santas is a great way for divers to say a massive thank you to the both the RNLI and Help For Heroes – two very deserving charities close to our hearts. We’re immensely proud of all that Vobster Santas has achieved and hope that even more divers will join this year’s event on Sunday 15th December. I’m confident that we can make Vobster Santas 2024 the biggest yet!”.
Divers wishing to participate can get involved by simply registering their attendance at
www.vobster.com/event-vobstersantas.php.
Blogs
Dive into Adventure at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Diving Destination in the Maldives
Tucked away in the remote northern Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a premier destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With over 30 dive sites to explore, divers of all levels can witness the unique and mesmerising beauty of the underwater world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the sport, Hideaway offers an exceptional diving adventure that is not to be missed.
Explore the Beauty Beneath the Surface
Hideaway is perfectly situated near some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives. The dive school and team at Hideaway offer a very personalised experience to ensure each diver gets an interactive, immersive experience.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Unique dive spots such as Theefaridhoo Thila (Heaven and Hell) as one of the 50 best dive sites in the whole of the Maldives, known for its beautiful soft coral gardens.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
As the resort is located next to a channel which gives guests surprise visits from eagle rays, manta rays, guitar sharks and more.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
One of the standout features of diving in the Haa Alifu Atoll is the abundance of rare and exotic marine species. The area is known for sightings of whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, and a variety of colorful reef fish. Diving at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers a rare opportunity to encounter these creatures in their natural habitat, creating lifelong memories for guests.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Whether you’re exploring deep coral gardens, dramatic overhangs, or vibrant reef walls, each dive offers something new and exciting. The visibility in the Maldives is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, making it ideal for both underwater photography and general exploration.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Diving for All Levels
At Hideaway, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the thrill of diving. That’s why we cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals. Our professional dive center, led by expert instructors, offers a range of courses and guided dives. If you’re new to diving, you can start with an introductory course that will teach you the basics of scuba diving in a safe and controlled environment.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
For more experienced divers, we offer advanced dive courses and guided excursions to some of the more challenging dive sites. Our instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about the local marine life, ensuring that every dive is not only safe but also informative and enjoyable.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Exclusive Diving Offer
To make your stay even more unforgettable, Hideaway is offering an exclusive diving package designed to enhance your experience both above and below the water. When you book a minimum 7-night stay, you’ll receive:
- 35% discount on room rates.
- Complimentary diving: 3 dives per person for 2 guests, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Maldives underwater world.
- Free meal plan upgrade: enjoy a complimentary upgrade from Bed & Breakfast to Half Board, or from Half Board to Full Board. Guests who prefer the White Platinum Plan (WPP) can avail it at a discounted rate.
This incredible offer provides the perfect opportunity to experience world-class diving while enjoying all the luxury and comfort that Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is known for.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Combinable Offers for Even More Value
This diving offer can also be combined with our Anniversary and Honeymoon offers, allowing you to create the perfect celebration package. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this offer ensures that you can enjoy the best of both worlds – luxurious accommodations and unforgettable diving adventures.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Terms & Conditions
- This offer is available exclusively for bookings made through the official Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa website using a specific booking code.
- The offer cannot be combined with other promotions available on the website or through other channels, nor can it be redeemed for cash.
- All dives are subject to weather conditions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
- Black-out dates: This offer is not available from 24th December 2024 to 9th January 2025.
To book this exquisite offer, use the Promo Code: SCUBA24FD
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Hideaway is not just a resort; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking peace, adventure, and luxury. With spacious villas, private pools, and world-class dining options, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect holiday. From tennis, golf, gym, cycling to the exquisite underwater activities, unique dining options, Hideaway has something for everyone. And for diving enthusiasts, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Our dive center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear, ensuring that every dive is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. Our instructors are passionate about the underwater world and are eager to share their knowledge with you, whether it’s your first dive or your 100th.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
The Ultimate Dive Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving holiday in the Maldives, look no further than Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa. With over 30 dive sites, unique marine life, and exclusive offers, we provide the ultimate underwater experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking adventure, our diving package offers exceptional value and incredible memories.
Book now through our official website to take advantage of this exclusive offer and prepare for the dive adventure of a lifetime.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Call: +960 650-1515
Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
-
News1 month agoIconic SS United States to become the World’s Largest Artificial Reef
-
Blogs3 months agoNovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!
-
News2 months agoBook Review – 52 Assignments: Underwater Photography
-
Gear News2 months agoDYNAMICNORD – New German diving brand enters the British market
-
News2 months agoExploring Cenote El Pit: A Diver’s Dream
-
Gear News2 months agoTry BARE drysuits (and maybe even win one!) this Friday with Sea & Sea at North West Dive Fest
-
News3 months agoComing Soon – 52 Assignments
-
News3 months agoSave £200 per person per week at Pole Pole Lodge with Dive Worldwide