News
Announcing the winner of Scubaverse.com’s Photo of the Year 2021
This year, Scubaverse.com’s Underwater Photography Editor Nick Robertson-Brown is joined by Deputy Editor Caroline and previous winner and Scubaverse blogger, Sean Chinn, to choose a winner of our Photo of the Year award. The three judges had a tough job on their hands to pick an overall champion for 2021; the winners of the monthly contest provided 12 fantastic images to select from, including marine life big and small, images using advanced photo techniques, and examples of animal behaviour. But after much deliberation, and in reverse order….
Joint Runner-Up: Pink Clown by Michael G
Judges comments
Sean: “At first glance you sometimes dismiss clownfish in anemone shots due to the popularity of them and it’s less unique than other images. However, this image really struck me as the colours really popped and complemented each other. The patience to get the fish in the frame looking directly out like that is great timing also. The image is beautiful and I do love an anemone closed up providing that beautiful texture and also the composition means it’s like a vortex leading you into the subject. A beauty of a shot!!”
Caroline: “This image jumped out from the screen. The colours are incredible. You can feel the texture of the anemone just from looking at this image and the eye contact with nemo is perfect.”
Nick: “What a great example of the use of complimentary colours. I# The old adage – if you see red… shoot it – is demonstrated by this super image. Many of us have a shot like this, but this one, I am sure you will agree, is special. “
Joint Runner-Up: Fairy Palm Hydroid with Cumanotus nudibranch by Jack Der
Judges comments
Caroline: “I love this image. The tiny nudibranch in it’s tiny hydroid world. To show this nudibranch in it’s environment like this is unusual and eye-catching. The focus on the subject is perfect. The subtle pink against the black background. Everything comes together to make this a stand out shot”
Sean: “I love the composition of this shot. We can sometimes get so caught up with macro getting as close as possible to the subject to fill the frame. Therefore, neglecting the scene and habitat where species live. I love the fact it isn’t all about the nudibranch but at the same time it is perfectly in-focus and sharp along with the beautiful detail in the stem. Then the rest of the scene is like a firework going off really adding to the composition with the black background making all the colours pop. A cracking shot!!”
Nick: “A great use of black background and contrast. I just love the fine detail on the nudibranch and also on hydroid stem. A genuine fin-art image.”
Winner: Striped Marlin by Giacomo Antonio Rossi
Judges comments
Nick: “Just Wow! Yes you have to be there, but you have to be able to capture the underwater drama too and the photographer has excelled here. I love the flare of the sunlight shining on the tight conical bait ball and hunting marlin. This is a perfect example of wide-angle photography whilst shooting into the sun. What a great capture.”
Sean: “This image caught my attention the second I saw it. The more I looked at it the more I loved it as well. I just couldn’t look past this shot as the overall winner. I’m a sucker for a dappled light at golden hour shot as it is, so this shot really resonated with me. The perfect formation of the schooling fish is so clean with the timing of the shot key. The position of the sailfish for the composition really works as you feel in the moment of the hunt. Then there’s the textures of the surface with the stunning beams of light coming through. Perfect exposure allowing not too many shadows, while also not blowing out the highlights. A truly stunning image and worthy winner!!”
Caroline: “Of all the amazing 12 images we had to select from, this was the image that stood out right from the start. It is an image that makes me just wish I was there behind the camera myself. The light is just gorgeous. It show the subject hunting and the shape of the bait ball is perfect. The surface of the water just adds to the drama of this worthy winner.”
The prizes for the Scubaverse photo of the year competition are incredible! The 2021 winner walks away with:
7 Nights at Bunaken Oasis Dive Resort, Indonesia
Bunaken Oasis redefines diving in Bunaken. Positioned very much at the luxury end of the spectrum, Bunaken Oasis’ aim is to provide a 5-star luxury diving experience whilst keeping its ecological footprint to a minimum.
Find out more about Bunaken Oasis Dive Resort at www.bunakenoasis.com.
Suunto D5 Dive Computer
The Suunto D5 is designed to be so clear and easy-to-use that you can just enjoy and focus on exploring the wonderful underwater world.
Find out more about the Suunto D5 dive computer here.
Paralenz Vaquita Underwater Camera
Paralenz Vaquita is a small and powerful underwater camera with a simple mission: to enable you to seamlessly capture and share brilliant underwater videos.
Find out more about the Paralenz Vaquita Underwater Camera here.
Mares Dual ADJ 62X Regulator
The Dual Adj 62X scuba diver regulator is the smallest and most compact first stage ever made by Mares. That’s why it’s the perfect travel companion for divers all over the world.
Find out more about the Mares Dual ADJ 62X Regulator here.
Sharkskin Titanium Chillproof
The Titanium Chillproof has FIR reflective technology that reflects and retains the Far Infrared Heat Energy from our bodies back into our bodies subsequently causing a rise in temperature, increased blood flow and improved metabolic function – i.e. we will be warmer.
Find out more about the Sharkskin Titanium Chillproof here.
XDEEP Radical Mask
The XDEEP Radical frameless mask allows you to take in more of what is around you, enhancing both the dive experience and your situational awareness of you, your team and the environment.
Find out more about the XDEEP Radical Mask here.
Northern Diver Varilux Zoom 1000 Lumen Rechargeable Dive Torch
The three white light settings make the ‘Varilux Zoom’ a fantastic multi-purpose dive torch.
Find out more about the Northern Diver Varilux Zoom 1000 Lumen Rechargeable Dive Torch here.
Fourth Element Expedition Series Duffel Bag
The Fourth Element Expedition Series Duffel Bag is made from tough and enduring heavy-duty mesh PVC and the base is double lined for durability.
Find out more about the Fourth Element Expedition Series Duffel Bag here.
Pandora-Lab Multi Tool
Pandora Multi Tool is a diver’s ‘Swiss Army knife’ designed to ease field maintenance where and when it matters. It’s as small as a credit-card but has all the functions of a multi-tool, with virtually every essential tool cut into its solid frame.
Find out more about the Pandora-Lab Multi Tool here.
Congratulations from all of the Scubaverse team to our winner and runners-up. Thank you to everyone that entered in 2021. Thank you also to all our incredible sponsors. We hope to see plenty more of your images in 2022! Watch out for the list of prizes you might win in 2022…
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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