Blogs
Open Ocean: a not for profit NGO marine field station in the Red Sea
Providing services for universities, researchers, interns, schools, divers, volunteers and conservationists
Open Ocean was established in 2010 to provide a not for profit NGO field station in the Red Sea for academic facilities and divers in general. Founder Hans Lange could not have dreamt how well received his vision would be.
Things truly took off in 2012 when Hans joined forces with Pharaoh Dive Club and Roots Red Sea to establish a totally self-contained field station near El Quseir at their remote coastal desert outpost surrounded by a phenomenal array of marine habitats and an abundant natural resource to study.
The academic interest in the Research and Education opportunities coupled with the simplified logistics of being a complete package proved a great move for Open Ocean and the academic facilities that have been drawn to the field station.
At El Quseir the focus was on Volunteering with residential programmes providing opportunities to get involved in many aspects of life in rural Egypt, in various fields such as Environmental Conservation, Citizen Science Projects, and Local Community Interactive Relationships.
Open Ocean has welcomed numerous volunteers to the programme from all walks of life and all demographics.
Volunteers are very much hands on with whatever activity is running, including:
Environmental Conservation
Organising beach and reef clean ups; sorting of and collating data on the collected debris; appropriate recycling and disposal of the collections.
Community projects such as maintenance and refurbishment of local schools.
Providing conservation education sessions with practical events for the local children and environment groups.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Citizen Science Projects
There are various ongoing Citizen Science Projects running at Open Ocean and every visitor is encouraged to get involved during their stay. Volunteers take a variety of roles within these projects, collecting data directly through surveys or indirectly collating other participants’ data at the end of the day. If suitably qualified, they can also get involved with establishing and running their own projects.
There are various opportunities to get involved such as Turtle Watch or the Shark Trust‘s survey which are simply reporting your sightings from your dives through to full project developments such as Fern’s Reef and the Sea Grass Survey.
Fern’s Reef
In August 2016, Open Ocean established a virgin artificial reef with sterile substrate to monitor and research the colonisation of the new structure. The lead on the project was Fern and the resultant reef is known as Fern’s Reef.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
The structure required bringing in from the shore 500 pieces of fossilised coral bed, formed into a random shaped metre high barrier in a depth of 8 metres with a sand bed and a relatively good tidal flow.
On completion a photo telemetry image was produced to establish a 3D base model record. After just a short period of time, signs of emerging life were noted and after just 6 months there were numerous corals taking a foothold with numerous fish inhabiting different areas of the structure.
This is an ongoing subject of observation and study, one that every visitor takes great interest in as it is now a thriving young live reef. Those with a more scientific outlook also note the distinct changes in topology around the reef, generated by the tidal flow and sand substrate movements. The Open Ocean team are on hand to provide a guided view of the everchanging project.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Sea Grass Survey
The latest Citizen Science Project has been established by Open Ocean: a Sea Grass Survey. The team noticed that a patch of sea grass had begun to form a small meadow in the bay, which raise several questions for research and study. Why has it appeared? How has it seeded itself? What species of grass and algae are there? What aquatic life will make use of the new habitat? And so much more.
Two volunteers were assigned the task to establish the sea grass project; Gerald Taylor and his 13-year-old son, Finlay. Both had the prerequisite diving skills – Finlay in fact, despite his age, came to Roots with 100dives already under his belt.
A month-long exercise at Roots would give Finlay, who has an exceptionally keen interest in the underwater world, real life experience living and working in a foreign country, and an understanding of marine biology project work. Coupled with the project, Finlay worked with the marine biologists at Open Ocean carrying out fish and coral ID and measuring / monitoring techniques.
The initial objective of the project was to measure the perimeter / extremities of the sea grass within the bay and to gain an understanding of its shape, distribution and density.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Together Gerald and Finlay formulated by which they were measure the perimeter of the sea grass. They then undertook land-based measuring techniques using 50 meter transects and quadrats, with the full knowledge that stretching a tape underwater to a distance of nearly 50 meters would have its own complications. Armed with their method, Gerald and Finlay set out to map and record the area taking a fixed point location to set the datum.
If you would like to follow the process that they adopted and see how the project developed, you can read Gerald’s summary here.
Meanwhile, alongside the volunteering activities, the grassroots Research and Education activities at Open Ocean have a very impressive, ever growing academic client list with numerous top facilities making regular visitors for both field courses and research projects.
That’s due to Open Ocean’s aim to satisfy researchers’ needs and requirements by providing and ideally located field station with modern research facilities as well as advice and support in administrative and organisational matters.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
The Open Ocean Field Station offers direct access to the Red Sea at both the house reef, Abu Sauatir, and nearby dozens of reef sites, along with other local habitats of interest including mangroves, sea grass meadows and fossil reefs.
Find out more about what is available at Open Ocean Field Station with a short presentation here.
Research Opportunities
It’s not just the field study groups that frequent the field station; it’s an ideal location for individual study and research projects. here are a few examples of unique studies.
Micro Plastics
Lucy Deans took up a six month placement with Open Ocean in 2016 during which time she completed an amazing amount of conservation work with the assistance from the volunteers and staff. In addition to her paper on microplastics in the sea bed, she endlessly battled with debris from land and sea, collecting, sorting and collating data for her own and other projects.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Camera Drops
The vast majority of study of the oceans is coastal exploration of the shallow depths from the surface to 20m. Over the past few years the Glasgow University students having been completing summer project work and have been completing camera drops extending this study from 60m to 100m. It’s another example of the range of opportunities that are available from the Open Ocean Field Station.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
National Geographic Octopus Study
In 2019, the Open Ocean Field Station provided Eduardo Sampaio the perfect Red Sea for his continued National Geographic funded research on cephalopod behaviour, cognition and neuroscience. His team spent 10 weeks on location recording the incredible behavioural repertoire, camouflage capabilities and complex cognition. View Eduardo’s publication.
Survey and Marine ID Courses
In recent years there has been a steep increase in school participation at Open Ocean generally taking advantage of the Open Ocean Survey and Marine ID Courses giving the students insight into the spectacular aquatic environment. The courses can be conducted for snorkellers or divers.
There is a range of Open Ocean Marine ID Courses for all ages and levels, whether it is young children beginning their voyage of discovery or experienced marine enthusiasts.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
If you are looking for a new expedition base for your school with an educational background, view our Open Ocean Prospectus for schools here.
Meet the Team
The engine room of Open Ocean are the enthusiastic dedicated team who simply love to talk about the wonders of the marine environment, particularly the Red Sea at El Quseir.
Resident Marine Biologist marc leads the team at the station, ably supported by our Intern Tierra, who provides great support.
Alongside is Sammie who takes care of the volunteering activities and is liaison with the local community. Currently Sammie is working with Rose who is out volunteering while developing her diving skills and certifications. Rose has completed her RAID Rescue and is and is about to start the RAID Divemaster.
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
They’re not alone though; our consultant Marine Biologist, Dr Deb with her 12 years of field courses at El Quseir, provides vastly experienced guidance and support.
If you are interested in coming out to be a part of the Open Ocean team, here is what just a couple of volunteers have to say:
Contact Open Ocean at info@openoceanproject.org
Dive Travel Curaçao is thrilled to announce the launch of the Curaçao Dive Vacation Guide – 2024 DEMA Special Edition, an expertly curated resource that unveils the unparalleled dive experiences and vacation possibilities awaiting you in Curaçao. Produced exclusively for the Diving Equipment & Marketing Association (DEMA) Show 2024, this special edition guide is packed with exclusive insights, travel tips, and limited-time DEMA offers that make it easier than ever to explore Curaçao’s stunning underwater landscapes and vibrant culture.
Explore Curaçao’s Unmatched Diving Opportunities
With over 70 diverse dive sites along its southern coastline, Curaçao is a bucket-list destination for divers of all experience levels. From thriving coral reefs and intricate marine ecosystems to historic shipwrecks, the island offers a variety of underwater experiences that are hard to match. The Curaçao Dive Vacation Guide – 2024 DEMA Special Edition provides detailed recommendations for both shore and boat diving, making it a valuable tool for divers seeking the best entry points, pristine reefs, and hidden treasures along the coastline. Whether you are an avid wreck diver, or a beginner interested in shallow reefs, Curaçao has it all.
Uncover Eco-Friendly Dive Resorts and Top Dive Operators
This DEMA 2024-exclusive Curaçao guide goes beyond diving to feature insider information on Curaçao’s eco-friendly accommodations, dive resorts, and top-rated dive operators committed to sustainable dive tourism. From all-inclusive resorts that support coral reef restoration initiatives to charming boutique hotels near prime dive locations, the guide helps travelers find the ideal stay to match their vacation goals. It also spotlights trusted dive operators on the island who prioritize environmental preservation, offering travelers a way to enjoy the underwater world responsibly.
Immerse Yourself in Curaçao’s Culture, Culinary Delights, and Adventure
Curaçao offers a vibrant Caribbean culture rich in history, music, and culinary fusion. The guide reveals Curaçao’s hidden gems, including culinary hotspots, historical sites, and eco-tourism opportunities that will appeal to both divers and non-divers. Visitors can explore the island’s iconic architecture, savor a diverse range of dishes influenced by Caribbean, European, and South American flavors, and embark on land-based eco-adventures, such as hiking, cave exploration, and visiting national parks.
Exclusive DEMA 2024 Specials and Limited-Time Dive Packages
This special edition guide features limited-time DEMA 2024 offers on dive packages, accommodations, and excursions. Travelers who book through Dive Travel Curaçao, or our Curaçao dive travel partners attending DEMA, will have access to exclusive discounts on custom dive vacation packages, making it easier to plan an affordable, high-quality dive trip that fits your preferences. The Curaçao Dive Vacation Guide – 2024 DEMA Special Edition is designed to simplify your travel planning and help you dive deeper into the incredible experiences that Curaçao has to offer.
It’s Time to Dive Curaçao!
Now is the time to discover why Curaçao is a top dive destination in the Caribbean! Dive Travel Curaçao invites you to experience an unforgettable dive vacation with exclusive DEMA 2024 specials tailored just for you. To secure your spot, download a copy of the Curaçao Dive Vacation Guide – 2024 DEMA Special Edition and contact the Dive Travel Curaçao team to start customizing your Caribbean dive adventure today.
For more information and bookings, please visit Dive Curaçao’s website or contact our reservations team directly.
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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