Blogs
Red Sea Safaris – The Way They All Should Be!
Big Blue might seem like the new kid on the block, but the team behind the highly acclaimed Big Blue liveaboard is far from that. They have been running Red Sea safaris since the late 1980’s and were in fact part of the early pioneers who ventured out to the unknown on vessels that in today’s world, really shouldn’t have left the harbour! It’s that experience and the years of operating the award-winning Roots Red Sea resort which truly set Big Blue apart from the crowd… literally!
What liveaboard diving shouldn’t be but often is!
Diving with crowds. Some boats have 40 divers on board and there can quite often be dozens of boats at a dive site!
Rushing the divers in and out of the water to meet predetermined deadlines.
Following in a procession of inexperienced divers on sites they really aren’t prepared for.
Big Blue’s Unique Selling Point is, quite simply:
SPACE & TIME.
Book Now: info@mybigblue.com / www.mybigblue.com /
Space on Board
We have been operating and running safari boats for over 30 years, all of which was leant on when it came to designing the layout of Big Blue.
When you are spending a week on board a confined space with a group of divers, it’s great to have some areas to relax in peace and quiet away from the social areas. Big Blue has these in abundance.
A large lounge area, spacious sun deck and extensive terrace desk.
A large restaurant with 5 tables with up to 6 chairs per table.
A varied and delicious menu is on offer with special dietary requirements catered for (with advanced warning).
Spacious cabins all have side by side beds and a large walk in wet bathroom.
An ample dive deck for 24 divers, especially when the divers are split into groups.
Did you know Big Blue has two cabins suitable for wheelchairs?
Big Blue welcome all suitably qualified divers!
Book Now: info@mybigblue.com / www.mybigblue.com
Space at the Dive Sites
Our itineraries are fluid rather than a fixed plan. We will take in all the featured dive sites on the safari, however we won’t be sure when until we are sailing. We go where the weather is best, the other boats are fewest and the marine life is awesome.
Dive the best Red Sea dive sites with Big Blue, including:
Rocky Island & Zabargad
The Brothers
Elphinstone the Big Blue Way!
Space & Time Diving
Book Now: info@mybigblue.com / www.mybigblue.com
Dive with your buddy or dive with your group, guided or unguided, it’s up to you!
Why have all 24 divers jump in the water together? We work with groups of 6 with intervals between each group, so whether you’re off the boat or out by zodiacs, its always in a small group! Enjoy the marine life and topology – it’s not an equipment and bubble showroom!
Sometimes, we just can’t avoid other boats on certain sites, but that’s OK – without doubt the majority of these boats will dump their divers in to the same set schedule, so we just wait and enjoy the reef or wreck to ourselves later.
Small and spaced-out groups avoid situations like mass safety stops on the drop line or all divers trying to get in the pickup boats at the same time. Small groups mean safer and more enjoyable diving is had by all!
The Boat
Book Now: info@mybigblue.com / www.mybigblue.com
We are great believers that safaris are about the diving, not the boat. However, clearly there is an optimum standard to maintain in order to ensure the comfort of the guests, and Big Blue delivers: the vessel is purpose built to be very spacious, comfortable and functional for remote diving.
We don’t have an onboard jacuzzi, tv’s in the rooms or other such luxuries, because for us, it’s all about the diving, and we know that’s what it’s all about for you too. We have what you need to have an amazing dive safari with an incredibly attentive crew making it all tick seamlessly.
Your safety is everyone’s priority, whether you are relaxing on board or diving.
Big Blue is fitted with smoke alarms, emergency lighting and a fire alarm system. The lower corridor has a full-size door fire exit at the bow and open stairs to the stern. There are evacuation plans in each room along with life jackets, glass breaker tool and a fire extinguisher.
Where do we go?
Anywhere and everywhere!
We primarily charter Big Blue to groups and discuss with them what they want to do and see. We offer the benefit of 35 years of exploration of the Red Sea by safari and provide ideas as to the best potential itinerary for that group. If the route is viable and safe, we are good to go!
We have our set outlines to provide some pointers, but no two weeks are ever the same!
Itineraries
For full details of Big Blue’s Ultimate Wreck itinerary, click here.
For full details of Big Blue’s Ultimate Brothers itinerary, click here.
For full details of Big Blue’s Pelagic Encounter itinerary, click here.
For full details of Big Blue’s Pelagic Encounter itinerary, click here.
One of our bespoke SOUTHERN EXPLORER trips from last month:
Your home for the week: Big Blue (Watch Video)
Big Blue’s 2024 Schedule
Big Blue’s schedule for 2024 has just been released! Take a look at the schedule and let us know what trip you are interested in, even if it says its full. The boat is often chartered but may have some spaces available which we can release to you, so always ask 😊
View Big Blue’s 2024 Schedule here: www.mybigblue.com/schedule
View Big Blue’s 2024 Rates here: www.mybigblue.com/rates
Book Now: info@mybigblue.com
Steve & Clare Hosted Safaris
In 2024, Big Blue owners Steve & Clare will be hosting 3 safaris on Big Blue. If you are interested in joining, let them know as soon as possible and they will send full details.
21/9/24 – Northern Highlights, the Brothers and Safaga
Completely random itinerary taking in several wrecks including Numidia, Salem Express, & a choice at Abu Nuhas, along with spectacular reefs along the way.
Sails from and returns to Hurghada
Prices from £1085 per person sharing a standard cabin
Excludes the government fees paid onboard, expected to be €175 per person
Book Now: info@mybigblue.com
12/10/24 – North Wrecks (hopefully the fabulous Turkia)
No, we don’t mean the typical armada of dive boats racing around the set route together. Ideally we will be heading up the Gulf of Suez as far as Zafrana; however, that’s very weather dependent so we need the right window to get north. Even if we don’t make it to Zafrana, we will still be diving the wrecks off the beaten track – The Million Hope and Thor Guardian, among others. Ask for full details.
Sails from and returns to Hurghada
Prices from £1,175 per person sharing a standard cabin
*If we don’t make Zafrana and the Turkia there will be a €100 refund on the cost.
Excludes the government fees paid onboard, expected to be €100 per person.
Book Now: info@mybigblue.com
30/11/24 – South Explorer: annual end of season jaunt
As the title says, we go south and just explore. It’s our annual pilgrimage for regular guests and friends. We have our regular favourites that we could dive all day everyday and still want more, and they are interspersed with exploration and trying new sites. This year we didn’t see another boat for four days! It was just like the early pioneering days – absolutely fabulous.
There will be a few spots open as most of the group rebook instantly, so if you want to have an awesome adventure, don’t delay and get in contact asap.
Sails from and returns to Port Ghaleb
Prices from £1,025 per person sharing a standard cabin
Excludes the government fees paid onboard, expected to be €175 per person
Book Now: info@mybigblue.com
What our guests say!
They hadn’t even got off the boat and sent this post and rebooked for 2024!
Book your next Red Sea Liveaboard Adventure with Big Blue Now!
Book Now: info@mybigblue.com / www.mybigblue.com / 00447958329059/00201065540888
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
Welcome to Day 5 of Scubaverse.com’s week-long Christmas Gift Guide!
Struggling to find the perfect gift for that special scuba diver in your life? Read on for Team Scubaverse’s pick of this season’s must-have Christmas gifts.
Every day this week, we are publishing a special Christmas Gift Guide full of different gift ideas that are all ideal for divers, so you’re sure to find something that’s perfect. Take a look at today’s selection below…
SlipIns DiveSkins
Team@slipins.com / www.slipins.com / SlipIns Facebook / SlipIns Instagram / SlipIns Pinterest
DiveSkins are perfect for scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, paddling, surfing, and all water sports. It shows up beautifully in pictures under water.
This tight-fitting, tailored lycra suit offers maximum comfort. stretchy, breathable, fast-drying fabric with the world’s best sun and stinger protection.
SlipIns are:
*Ultimate 50+ UPF sun protection
*Abrasion protection.
*Quick dry, breathable, soft fabric
*The ultimate stinging critter protection
Save 10% on your order if you mention you saw this ad in Scubaverse in your order note!
SAVE YOUR SKIN…WEAR OUR SKINS
Team@slipins.com / www.slipins.com / SlipIns Facebook / SlipIns Instagram / SlipIns Pinterest
Diving Books from Miflex Hoses
sales@miflexhoses.co.uk / www.miflexhoseshop.co.uk / miflexhoseshop.co.uk/acatalog/Diving-Books.html / Miflex Hoses on Facebook
We stock a great range of Diving & Underground book titles, ideal to add to any order or simply buy as a gift for a friend.
Titles we have include:
Shipwrecks of the Dover Straits, Adventures Underground, Pioneers Beneath the Peak, Dive Truk Lagoon, Underwater Potholer, Images Below & many more.
From Authors including:
Stefan Panis, Martyn Farr, Duncan Price, Ron Young, Rod Macdonald, Chris Howes
Visit our website for more details.
sales@miflexhoses.co.uk / www.miflexhoseshop.co.uk / miflexhoseshop.co.uk/acatalog/Diving-Books.html / Miflex Hoses on Facebook
OrcaTorch D710 Dive Light – now available in pink!
sales@sea-sea.com / www.orcatorch.com / OrcaTorch on Facebook / OrcaTorch on X / OrcaTorch on YouTube
Already available in Black, Green, Red and Blue, the D710 Dive Light from Orcatorch is now available in Pink too.
Whether you’re a recreational or a professional diver, you’ll find the OrcaTorch D710 dive light useful in your underwater activities.
With max 3,000 lumens, the D710 is one of the strongest torches in its class. You also have plenty of brightness settings to choose from if you prefer less power.
It runs on one OrcaTorch 21700 5000mAh rechargeable battery with a Type-C charging port, easier for you to charge it anywhere. Now it offers five exterior colour options: Black, Green, Red, Blue, and Pink, to satisfy your diverse needs.
Featuring:
* Uses Luminous LED, max 3000 lumens
* Uses 1 * 21700 Li-ion battery
* 6° beam angle
* Offers four exterior colour options: Black, Red, Green and Blue
* Easy operation with side titanium alloy push-button switch
* Safe lock function, prevents mis-operation
* Intelligent Over-Heat protection
* Battery indicator
* Water pressure resistant construction, depth rated to 150 meters
* Reverse polarity protection, to protect from improper battery installation
* Over-discharge protection function
* Constructed from high-strength A6061-T6 aluminum
* Mil-Spec Type III hard anodized finish for durability and corrosion resistance
* Two sides coated toughened glass with high water pressure resistance under deep water
Sea & Sea is the home of OrcaTorch and other leading diving brands in the UK.
sales@sea-sea.com / www.orcatorch.com / OrcaTorch on Facebook / OrcaTorch on X / OrcaTorch on YouTube
Scubapro Luna 2 AI Dive Computer
Scubapro Europe Website / Scubapro USA Website / Scubapro on Facebook / Scubapro on Instagram / Scubapro on YouTube
SCUBAPRO, the world’s premier manufacturer of high-quality scuba diving equipment, introduces its second generation Luna 2.0, an easy-to-read, intuitive dive computer loaded with easy-to-use features and available in two versions, the Luna 2.0 and Luna 2.0 AI with wireless air integration.
Designed for new and casual recreational divers, the low-profile Luna 2.0 sits comfortably on the wrist. Its oil-filled plastic housing helps ensure reliable performance to depths of 120 meters. A large widescreen display features a high-contrast black and white matrix-segment LCD with full-sized characters for easy reading in all dive conditions. An intuitive menu and simple two-button interface lets the diver navigate the system with ease, aided by clearly marked screen prompts. The LUNA 2.0 offers two algorithms – Predictive Multi-Gas Bühlmann ZH-L16 ADT MB PMG or ZH-L16 + GF PURE, plus 21-50% nitrox compatibility and three selectable gasses for open circuit diving. Three dive modes are available – Scuba, Apnea and Gauge – to suit a range of diving activities.
The Luna 2.0 AI (air integrated) offers the same easy-to-use features and functions as the standard Luna 2.0 plus adds wireless air integration. This not only enables to easily monitor ythe tank pressure, it also provides true remaining bottom time (RBT) and allows the air consumption to be factored into the decompression calculation. Also available with the Luna 2.0 AI is an optional integrated heart rate monitor that lets visually track the heart rate and skin temperature to help staying in the personal target zone.
Both Luna 2.0 models include personalized dive management functions like PDIS (Profile Dependent Intermediate Stops) which calculates an intermediate stop based on N2 loading, current and previous dives and breathing mixes, and Microbubble levels that give the option to adjust the level of conservatism in the algorithm to match the individual experience level, age and physical conditioning for a more enjoyable dive.
The soft silicone arm strap offers a comfortable fit on the wrist, plus bungee mounts on the corners of the housing allow for alternate attachment methods. A Bluetooth Low Energy interface enables the download of the dive data to any iOS or Android device or PC/Mac (firmware can be user-updated), and the CR2450 battery is rated for up to two years or 300 dives.
Scubapro Europe Website / Scubapro USA Website / Scubapro on Facebook / Scubapro on Instagram / Scubapro on YouTube
35% off Red Sea Liveaboard Scuba Scene in Spring 2025
info@oysterdiving.com / www.oysterdiving.com / Oyster Diving Facebook / Oyster Diving Instagram
Embark on the ultimate diving adventure aboard the Scuba Scene, the luxury liveaboard offering an unforgettable Red Sea experience. Known for its exceptional service, safety, comfort, and world-class dive sites, Scuba Scene is the ideal choice for divers of all levels.
Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs, exotic marine life, and awe-inspiring shipwrecks. From the stunning Ras Mohammed National Park to the famous Thistlegorm wreck, Scuba Scene brings you to the heart of the Red Sea’s best sites. With spacious cabins, gourmet dining, and a dedicated crew that ensures every detail is perfect, this liveaboard guarantees relaxation and adventure in equal measure.
Now is the perfect time to book! Save a massive 35% on any sailing between 3rd March and 28th April 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or taking your first plunge, Scuba Scene promises an experience you’ll cherish forever.
Don’t miss this chance to dive the Red Sea in style and at an incredible price. Book your adventure today!
Tel: 0800 699 0243
info@oysterdiving.com / www.oysterdiving.com / Oyster Diving Facebook / Oyster Diving Instagram
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