News
Meet the new 2020 PADI AmbassaDivers
PADI® has announced its new PADI AmbassaDiverTM team members for 2020.
The PADI AmbassaDiver program helps amplify the stories of divers who inspire others to love and care for our ocean planet. These individuals elevate diving in their communities and across the planet, encouraging more people to pursue their passions or follow their dreams to seek adventure and save the ocean. They exemplify what it means to be a PADI Torchbearer, committed to exploring and protecting the ocean.
PADI welcomes the following individuals and groups into the PADI AmbassaDiver program:
Nayantara (Tara) Jain
Having first tried diving at the age of 16 in the Maldives, Tara became a PADI Divemaster in 2010 and an instructor in 2011. With experience diving in Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, California, Galapagos and many other exciting places, her favorite diving destination remains the unexplored reefs of India, where she lives and works. Her passion for marine conservation drove her to earn a Master’s degree in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in California, USA. She now heads Reef Watch Marine Conservation – one of India’s only not-for-profit organizations dedicated to protecting our ocean and coastal communities.
Alex Rendell
Alex is the co-founder of Environmental Education Centre in Thailand, which educates children about environmental issues with a main focus on the ocean and scuba diving. Alex is a film star in his native Thailand and utilizes his fame to bring awareness to younger audiences about the importance of conservation.
Megan Hassa
A travel influencer, Megan can usually be found “up in the mountains or at the bottom of the sea.” Megan has a mission to help unite adventurers and lovers of the ocean. She shares her love for diving with her thousands of followers, to educate and develop a voice for environmental conservation.
Baki Zainal
Baki is the Reef Check ambassador for Malaysia and Singapore as well as a TV personality in Asia. Baki hosts many travel shows that involve islands and diving. A passionate champion for marine conservation, he is continuously spreading awareness about the importance of marine conservation to the youth and mass audiences.
Bo Mancao
Bo is a multi-award-winning underwater photographer and marine cinematographer. He has represented the Philippines on numerous international photo shoots and his images are used to promote diving by the Philippines Department of Tourism. He has filmed award-winning documentaries concerning our oceans, international lifestyle programs and short films focusing on conservation.
Khalid Alrazooqi
Working closely with the government in UAE to help promote the region as a diving tourism destination, Khalid has traveled to many countries in the world to dive and explore the sea and learn best practices to help the environment. Khalid has received many awards for his work including from His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai. Khalid is a member of DXB Diving, a group dedicated to removing fishing nets that have been left by area fishermen.
Claude Evangelista
Claude finds captivating stories beneath the ocean, and through the art of filmmaking explores ways to communicate those stories to people who are curious about the ocean. Through his films, Claude hopes to inspire others to explore the underwater world through diving.
Melodie Trevino
Based on the Caribbean coast of Mexico, Melodie has been in the water most of her life. A former Olympic diver and technical cave explorer with an MBA in sustainable development, Melodie is focused on sustainable operation in Mexico. She is an ambassador for brands like Oceanic, Hollis and Huish Outdoors, and enjoys sharing her adventures so she can reach out to others who might find the journey of scuba diving as limitless as she does.
Weldon Wade
TedEx speaker, Director at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute and founder, leader and driving force of Guardians of the Reef, Weldon has received many recognitions and awards from his peers and organizations including the opportunity to serve on boards of local NGOs, government boards and as a brand ambassador for international organizations.
Frank Mollel
Representing the Massai, one of the East Africa’s land-locked traditional tribes, Frank became the first Maasai diver in the region. Teaming up with DivePoint in Zanzibar, Tanzania, Frank is giving back to the community through Protecting the Ocean, a youth program that trains new divers and helps create a generation of conservationists and ocean lovers.
Annie Crawley’s Scuba Diving Team
Led by underwater photographer, filmmaker, inspirational speaker and PADI MSDT Annie Crawley, this team of more than 50 active kids of all ages and backgrounds is stoked on diving in America’s Pacific Northwest and pay forward that enthusiasm to protect the future of the ocean. With the support of their local dive center, Underwater Sports, the kids, ranging in ages from 10 to late teens, dive year-round – not just in their backyard in Seattle, Washington, USA, but all over the world. Their passion for the underwater world shines through with a range of interests and dreams.
Learn more about the PADI AmbassaDiver team here. Follow PADI on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to keep up to date on their ongoing projects, dive adventures and conservation efforts throughout the year.
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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