News
NUPG announce winners of 2018 print competition
The third NUPG open print competition proved a great success at The Great Northern Dive Show 2018. The stand was really busy throughout the two days of the show with many of the visitors stopping to admire the 56 entries in the competition.
Overall Winner: The Car Wash Cenote, Tulum, Mexico by Elaine White
The overall winner and runner-up were chosen by a judging panel consisting of our prize sponsors, Gary from Fleet Dive and Clare from Dutton Divers with expert guidance from Ellen Culyaerts, a freelance professional underwater and wildlife photographer who currently lives and works on Grand Cayman but was visiting the show to give a talk and kindly agreed to assist with the judging.
This beautiful image of Lilies with trees above taken in The Car Wash Cenote, Tulum, Mexico was chosen as the Overall Winner and the photographer was Elaine White. The more you look at this image the more you see; she has used Snell’s window to great effect, the reflections and colours of the lilies, water and trees are mesmerising. Elaine won a dive package donated by Fleet Dive based in Costa Brava, Spain. Elaine also topped the British & Irish Macro category with her portrait of a shrimp.
British & Irish Wide Angle Winner: Seal in Sunbeams by Kirsty Andrews
This great image of a seal in the sunbeams taken by Kirsty Andrews was chosen as the overall runner-up and the British and Irish winner. Again the light and sunbeams add to the overall composition. Kirsty also won the British and Irish Wide Angle Category with this photo. Kirsty wins a Full Face Mask Try Dive at Vivian Quarry donated by Dutton Divers, so hopefully she can take advantage of this when she next comes diving around the coast of North Wales.
The public also had their chance to vote for their favourites and in all we received 2928 votes from 366 people that visited the show. The overall standard of the competition was high with a large spread of votes for all the images. There was not one image that did not receive a vote from someone although there were some firm favourites.
The results are as follows. Congratulations to all the winners and runners-up. All category winners receive a Shark Trust Adoption Certificate.
Overseas Wide Angle Winner: Red Cenote Car Wash by Tom. St George
Again Cenote Car Wash Tulum Mexico featured with Tom St. George from Mexico winning the Overseas Wide Angle category with this unusual Red Cenote, apparently the waters can sometimes turn this unusual colour after heavy rains. He took this shot with a mirrorless Olympus OMD-EM1 camera using an Olympus Pro Lens 7-14mm.
Overseas Close Up Winner: Seahorse by Caroline Robertson-Brown
Caroline Robertson-Brown won the Overseas Macro with this lovely shot of a seahorse showing how these sensitive creatures blend in with their surrounding environment.
British & Irish Macro – 1st Elaine White – Shrimp, 2nd Yo-Han Cha – Tompot Blenny, 3rd John Spencer – Sea Loch Anemone.
British and Irish Wide Angle – 1st Kirsty Andrews – Seal in Sunbeams, 2nd Will Clark – Feeding Basking Shark, 3rd Mark Thomas – Grey Seal, Farnes Islands.
Overseas Macro – 1st Caroline Robertson-Brown – Seahorse, 2nd Justin Beevor – Mantis Shrimp with eggs, Equal 3rd Amanda Gartmore – Clam mantle Equal 3rd John Spencer – Lionfish.
Overseas Wide Angle – 1st Tom St. George – Red Cenote Car Wash, Tulum Mexico, 2nd Elaine White – Lilies in Cenote Car Wash, 3rd Nick Robertson-Brown – Tiger Beach.
All the winners and runners-up images can be viewed in the NUPG 2018 Print Competition Gallery on the NUPG website.
NUPG members from the group were on hand to encourage people to vote, and also spend time discussing underwater photography and the work of the group with visitors. Maggie said: “Lots of interest was shown in our group and we hope to have gained some new members.”
British & Irish Close-Up Winner: Shrimp by Elaine White
NUPG Monthly meetings are currently held at 8pm on the 2nd Monday of every month. Those wanting to join in earlier for a curry are welcome from around 6:15pm at The Ghurka Grill, Burton Road, Manchester.
Below is a taster of events currently planned over the next two months:
- 12th March – Speaker – Alex Tattersall – “Confessions of an ex (critter) fiddler” – Competition Theme – Schooling
- 9th April – Speaker – Josef Litt – “Galapagos” – Competition – Fish Faces
- 28th April – Capernwray Dive Day
For more information about the Northern Underwater Photography Group please email info@nupg.org.uk or use the Contact Form or send a message on the NUPG Facebook group.
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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