News
Is club diving getting more popular?
BSAC has seen a recent flurry of new clubs coming on board, with a rise in BSAC clubs created by already qualified divers or clubs crossing over from other agencies.
Welcoming and delivering a great product for divers from all agencies is a key part of BSAC’s growth strategy and the influx of new clubs coming online is evidence that the support BSAC offers is a real draw.
An increasing number of clubs are being set up by groups of trained divers recognising the benefits of diving as a BSAC club.
Did you know…You don’t need to be BSAC trained to set up a BSAC club, and you don’t need to cross over your qualification. See www.bsac.com/switchtobsac
Setting up a BSAC club has never been easier
Dave Howson of recently formed North Wales Technical Divers (NWTD) said:
“NWTD initially pursued an unaffiliated club route as we weren’t BSAC trained. However, as it turned out BSAC was the perfect option – the support from head office has been great, we’ve grown to 71 members and we’ve saved a small fortune on insurance.”
With BSAC providing clubs and members with comprehensive liability insurance as part of the membership package, the ideal solution was found. Now with 71 members and rising, NWTD has proved to be one of BSAC’s fastest growing clubs so far this year.
“More and more divers are seeing the benefits of creating their own club and are coming to us for help. Ultimately BSAC is here to support all divers to enjoy the types of diving they want to do. From insurance and training to marketing support, being part of the BSAC club network is proving to be an attractive proposition.” – Debbie Powell, BSAC marketing manager
Debbie believes that the support offered by BSAC means that as well as more standard training and diving clubs, many divers are creating clubs that are geared to the specific type of diving they want to do. One such club is North Wales Technical Divers (NWTD), who initially struggled to find an affordable liability insurance package for their new tech diving-only club.
Diving Officer Dave Howson said that the support from BSAC HQ meant that they could create the club they wanted:
“All our members are experienced divers with technical qualifications from different agencies. Our certifications mean there is no requirement to do cross over training to a BSAC certification, so we can simply go diving!”
How to set up a new BSAC diving club
BSAC has put together an easy-to-use application form and online guide to setting up a new BSAC club, as well as advice and support on how to grow your membership.
If you’re an existing scuba diving or snorkelling club and would like to understand more about the benefits of becoming a BSAC club, please get in touch. Call us today on 0151 350 6201, we’ll be happy to chat it through and see how we can help. Alternatively, please email us membership@bsac.com.
New BSAC clubs come aboard
We asked two other clubs why they made the move to affiliate with BSAC.
Scubadiving-Indepth SAC
Based in Ripley, Derbyshire, Scubadiving-Indepth SAC started as a dive school in 2010, with its own non-affiliated diving club. Wanting to grow, Indepth moved its club over to BSAC in August and hasn’t looked back. With 13 members so far, Diving Officer Richard Barton said the support from BSAC has been key to the club’s smooth transition:
“The club membership system offers a lot of formal and informal support especially for UK diving which commercial agencies don’t. With help from the diving staff at BSAC HQ, we are moving forward at a great pace. It’s early days but all of us have a positive attitude to making it a long-term success.”
Carlisle Sub-Aqua Club
Set up back in 1964, Carlisle SAC was affiliated to ScotSAC but felt they needed to widen their support for members’ diving and training, as well as grow as a club. Attracted by the range of courses on offer, the club made the decision to move over to BSAC in mid-2017.
Club Chairman Jim Cookson said the change-over has gone well: “The support we’ve had from the BSAC team has been excellent. All our instructors have attended cross over training courses and have got to grips with the slightly different way of training.”
BSAC is recognised worldwide and the option of doing training in a club environment as well as attending a specific course held anywhere in the UK helps members achieve their diving goals. We now have around 40 members with a steady stream of enquiries from potential new members. I think it has definitely been the right move for us as a club.
For more information about BSAC visit their website by clicking here.
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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