News
Diving with… Rocio Del Mar & Quino El Guardian Liveaboards, Mexico
In this new ongoing series, we speak with the people who run dive centres, resorts and liveaboards from around the world about their businesses and the diving they have to offer
What is your name?
Susan Long
What is the name of your business?
Rocio Del Mar Liveaboard and Quino El Guardian Liveaboard
What is your role within the business?
Sales & Marketing
How long has the business operated for?
Since 2008
How long have you dived for, and what qualification are you?
I have been in the diving industry for 22 years of which most was designing and manufacturing drysuits for divers all over the world. It is with great excitement that I can take this experience and focus on an entirely new area of diving – dive travel on liveaboards in the beautiful waters of Mexico with an incredible team of people at Rocio Del Mar & Quino El Guardian.
What is your favorite type of diving?
Any diving where I get to see critters! I especially love diving with sea lions and manta rays. I’ve been able to snorkel with whale sharks and sperm whales. I love seeing eels and octopus when they are as interested in me as I am in them. And nothing compares to being just one-of-the-guys when swimming inside a huge school of fish.
If you could tell people one thing about your business (or maybe more!) to make them want to visit you what would it be?
It’s all about the crew. The moment you walk onto Rocio Del Mar and Quino El Guardian you are family. Not only do they take care of your needs, they make everything fun, light hearted and safe. From the first buenos diaz in the morning to the last buenos noches at night, it is nothing but smiles and helpfulness. The entire crew from the captain to the engineer, from the steward to the chef, from the divemasters to the panga drivers, are there to work together as a team. It’s all about the crew who make it all about YOU.
What is your favorite dive in your location and why?
In Socorro it would be diving with the manta rays and in the Sea of Cortez it would be diving with the sea lions. This past season the manta rays came so close and slow – they seemed to look me in the eyes. It made me catch my breath – it was absolutely magical and something I had never felt before. They made me feel special and unique; like they were checking me out!
In the Sea of Cortez it’s diving with the sea lions. It’s like diving with friendly black Labrador retrievers with their big, brown sweet eyes. Having one nibble on your fin is one of the greatest joys on earth!
This past summer I got to snorkel which Sperm Whales in the Sea of Cortez. Oh and did I mention dolphins – when they swim up to you and say hi? There is just so much in Socorro and the Sea of Cortez – and it’s so close for so many of us! Why fly to the other side of the planet? It’s all here and it’s all so amazing!
What types of diving are available in your location?
We have two liveaboards that offer 8, 10 and 13 day trips. We also have Citizen Science expeditions aboard Quino in which a scientist involves divers in their research such as shark and manta tagging, animal identification, DNA sampling, whale song recording, etc. They also do daily presentations on animal behaviour, migration, conservation and more. Liveaboards offer the best vacation I can think of – the excitement of diving with maximum relaxation. You just eat, sleep and dive…
What do you find most rewarding about your current role?
Being part of an amazing group of people who care about the divers/customers, take pride in the boat and the service they provide, and do their best every day to be their best. I get to help people have experiences and make memories that will last their lifetime.
What is your favorite underwater creature?
That is hard as there are so many that I love – but I have to say sea lions.
Are there any exciting changes / developments coming up in the near future?
We are working diligently on developing a team of scientists for our Citizen Science program aboard Quino El Guardian. It takes diving to a whole new level. Divers are always looking for new adventures and this gives it to them along with a purpose. The more we know about the ocean and its inhabitants, the more we love them. And the more we love them, the more we will do everything within our power to preserve them. Citizen Science is diving with a purpose and Quino El Guardian is leading the way in this new adventure!
As a business, what is the biggest problem you face at the moment?
With our newest boat, Quino El Guardian, we have 4 cabins with 4 bunks each and one cabin with 2 bunks. People who have travelled with us on Rocio Del Mar are used to a private cabin with their own bathroom so the fact that these are more relaxed accommodations can be a bit off-putting for some.
On Quino we have 4 full-sized bathrooms, each assigned to a cabin (typically assigned by gender). This way a guest is only sharing a bathroom with 3-4 other people at most so they can leave their personal items inside. It’s really much more convenient then people may initially think.
The best part about Quino is we take a maximum of 16 divers which is the perfect size because you really get to know everyone on board. It’s super easy to get around the boat – from the dive deck to the galley for food then hop up to the shaded sundeck for a quick nap. Wash, rinse, repeat…
Is your business involved in any environmental work?
As I mentioned earlier, we have our Citizen Science program on Quino El Guardian (Quino – named after the owners grandson plus THE GUARDIAN). This is a totally unique program that we offer. We have a scientist on board (they often bring one or two of their Ph.D students with them) and they give divers the opportunity to participate in their research. It could be on sharks, mantas, reef ecology, mobula rays, echinoderm diversity (sea stars and sea cucumbers), and more. Much of this work goes into the preparation of documents and papers which in turn goes to governmental agencies to help increase the protection for these remote and pristine areas.
How do you see the SCUBA / Freediving / snorkeling industry overall? What changes would you make?
Our industry is aging. We need to find more ways to engage younger generations. That is why Quino’s Citizen Science program is so important. People want to be part of something bigger than themselves and to do something that can have a positive impact on our planet.
I would make our industry as welcoming as possible, i.e. opening up the Diving Equipment & Marketing Association annual trade show to the public. It is a wonderful show and divers love to see and touch things. This would be a great way to welcome ALL DIVERS into one big family.
What would you say to our visitors to promote the diving you have to offer?
Rocio Del Mar and Quino El Guardian offer divers wonderful adventures from the pelagic animals of the Socorro Islands to the remoteness of the Sea of Cortez. The Sea of Cortez is so easy to get to as guests typically fly in and out of the Phoenix, AZ airport. There is a 3.5 hour shuttle that takes you right to the boat. The next morning you wake up at an island that is so remote you will truly feel as if you have gotten away from it all. You may see one or two other boats the entire week and the sky will be so lit with stars you will be able to see the Milky Way and passing satellites. Why spend two days to get somewhere when you can spend that time diving. Come with us to the Sea of Cortez and our Explore Baja expeditions. You will love them!
To find out more about Rocio Del Mar and Quino El Guardian Liveaboards please visit www.RocioDelMarLiveaboard.com and www.QuinoElGuardian.com and see their Facebook pages at www.facebook.com/RocioDelMarLiveaboard and www.facebook.com/QuinoElGuardian.
Susan is always happy to answer your questions. Get in touch directly with her at SLong@RocioDelMarLiveaboard.com.
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
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