News
Anse Chastenet and SeaLife Team Up for 2017 Underwater Photography Weeks in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia’s Anse Chastanet Resort with their PADI 5 STAR scuba operation, Scuba St. Lucia, in collaboration with SeaLife Cameras, will be hosting four specialty weeks in 2017 dedicated to underwater photography. The 2017 weeks are August 19-26, September 30-October 7, November 11-18, and December 9-16.
Divers will be able to learn and fine tune their photography skills through a series of seminars and dives in one of the most protected sites in the Caribbean.
Anse Chastanet offers designated marine reserves, protecting miles of colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, vibrant corals, and stunning macro life.
Whether a new photographer with a point and shoot camera or the owner of a complete DSLR system, the week will provide hands on training in areas such as ambient light use, model photography, macro photography, animal portraits, and general compositions.
Days will be filled with two morning dives in and around St. Lucia’s pristine marine reserves, including dive sites such as the Pinnacles, Superman’s Flight, and various sites nestled between the two world heritage Pitons. In the afternoon, seminars will be held reviewing the photographs taken in the morning, editing photos and videos, and discussing the next day’s underwater adventure.
Throughout the week, divers will collect images from which they can submit one photo in each of the predetermined categories in the Photography Week Photo Competition. Prizes will be awarded at the end of the week in the closing ceremony celebration.
Seminars will be conducted by resident pro photographer, Bernd Rac. Bernd started with underwater photography and videography at UNESCO in Freeport Bahamas in 1993 and has been shooting ever since. He began working in 1996 at Scuba St. Lucia, which is owned and operated by the Anse Chastanet Resort, as an underwater photo/video professional. Bernd won the Rodales Resort Pro Photographer competition in 1998 and then expanded his knowledge in photography and videography including post production. Divers will be closely supervised by Bernd and other underwater photo pros on the Scuba St. Lucia staff.
The Underwater Photography Week will be taught using your own camera set up or the brand new SeaLife DC2000. The rental fee for the new DC2000 camera is included in your Underwater Photography Week package.
As SeaLife’s most advanced underwater camera, the DC2000 includes a full featured waterproof inner camera and an ergonomic, precisely designed 200ft/60m underwater housing. The DC2000 uses a SONY® 1” back-illuminated 20MP CMOS image sensor to produce sharp stills and full 1080p HD videos. For details on the SeaLife DC2000, visit www.sealife-cameras.com/cameras/dc2000.
If participants wish to invest in a new camera, SeaLife is offering a $100 booking incentive when pre-ordering a DC2000 camera through Scuba St. Lucia and registering for the Photo Week. Anse Chastanet is the perfect location for non-diving family members, with adventure sports galore as well as world class beaches, spas, and tours.
The Underwater Photography week starts at US $2,819 per person in a double occupancy room. A non-diving partner pays $2,109 per person per week in a double occupancy room.
To book or for more information, email ansechastanet@ansechastanet.com or call 1-800-223-1108 and reference the Underwater Photography Weeks.
The Underwater Photography Week package includes: Underwater Photography course, 7 nights’ accommodation, airport transfers, breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, all tax/service, welcome drink and culinary amenity on arrival, 12 beach or boat dives inclusive of tank, weights, belt, mask, snorkel, fins (other equipment at a charge if needed, marine park fee to be paid locally).
The package is available to certified divers. Please bring your certification cards with you.
| DC2000 Camera | MSRP $699.95 | Pre-order price $599.95 |
| DC2000 Pro 2500 Set | MSRP $1099.95 | Pre-order price $999.95 |
| DC2000 Pro Flash Set | MSRP $999.95 | Pre-order price $899.95 |
| DC2000 Pro Duo | MSRP $1399.95 | Pre-order price $1299.95 |
The DC2000 Photography Week camera incentive is exclusive to Anse Chastanet and the Photography Week experiences. The DC2000 camera or camera set will be shipped to you (in USA only) or awaiting you on arrival at Anse Chastanet.
For more information about SeaLife cameras visit www.SeaLife-Cameras.com.
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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