News
Celebrate the Sea Festival 2018
One of the richest underwater photography shoot-outs in the world takes place from 1-3 April 2018 in Manado, Bangka and Lembeh, with prizes totaling over $35,000 value in both novice and open categories. The overall winner will be named ‘Master of the Competition’ with a cash bounty of around USD 5,000. The cash prize for each category winner is around USD 2,000. The competition finale and awards will take place in Singapore on 7 April 2018.
Dr. Sylvia Earle, ‘Her Deepness’, is heading to Manado for the ‘Celebrate the Sea’ Festival from 30 March to 5 April 2018. The first 100 attendees (reserving with Ocean Geographic using the Quick Booking tab at https://goo.gl/9ur2kY) will receive a Van Gogh Ocean edition print “Heart of the Reef” personally signed by Dr. Earle and specially created for the festival by Michael AW. Festival packages start from $130 and all-inclusive participating resort packages, including dives, start from around $500.
The mission of the 13th ‘Celebrate the Sea’ Festival is to inspire the ban of both single-use plastic and shark fin soup in Manado. By attending the festival, participants effectively become part of the solution, contributing to the preservation of our ocean environment. The festival in Manado will celebrate the splendor and richness of the marine bio-diversity of the Bunaken National Marine Park, Bangka Island and the Lembeh Strait. The underlying objective of the festival is to spotlight threats from climate change and pollution in this remote, coral triangle region.
As with previous ‘Celebrate the Sea’ Festivals, the lineup of ocean luminaries for 2018 is impressive including ‘Her Deepness’ Dr. Sylvia Earle, Craig Leeson, producer of a Plastic Ocean; Kristin Hoffman, composer and singer of ‘Song for the Ocean’, National Geographic photographers David Doubilet & Jennifer Hayes; Ocean Geographic science editor Alex Rose; feature editor Gill McDonald and chief editor Evonne Ong. Together with a host of our honorary associates, including Howard Shaw, Doug Perrine and Matthew Smith, there will be an impressive array of scientists, artists, innovators, photographers and passionate marine advocates.
A major festival highlight is the International Underwater Photography Shoot-Out Competition from 1-3 April 2018, one of the richest shoot-outs in the world with prizes totaling over $35,000 in value in both novice and open categories. Many resorts in the area are supporting the competition in order to draw attention to this beautiful, rich and diverse diving location.
The overall winner will be named ‘Master of the Competition’ with a cash bounty of around USD 5,000. The cash prize for each category winner is around USD 2,000. The 2018 festival will take place alongside the 5th annual ‘Ocean Geographic Pictures of the Year’ competition. A regular feature is also the children’s art competition, aimed at inspiring the energy, enthusiasm and curiosity of the future ambassadors of our planet.
During the festival, Kristin Hoffman will be shooting a new music video for ‘Song for the Ocean’ – https://goo.gl/MVYdPV. All participants are invited to play a part in this production – this is your chance to help inspire a greater love for our ocean. Find out more at https://goo.gl/wWZ38A
The festival opens at 13:30 on 31 March 2018 in the central Manado Megamall Auditorium. There is a packed schedule of keynote speakers and presentations up to the opening ceremony at 18:30. The opening ceremony is also in the Megamall complex and hosted by the Provincial Government of North Sulawesi. The International Underwater Photography Shoot-Out Competition then takes place at local participating resorts from 1-3 April.
On 4 April the participants relocate to the modern 4* Mercure Tateli Beach Resort which has spectacular views over the Celebes sea and classic volcano-shape of Manado Tua in Bunaken National Marine Park. Lunch is followed by another round of absorbing presentations by keynote speakers and a display of the finalists in the ‘Ocean Geographic Pictures of the Year’ competition.
The Manado festival culminates in the closing ceremony and dinner at 18:30, once again hosted by the Provincial Government of North Sulawesi. The exciting finale of the 2018 Celebrate the Sea festival will be in Singapore on Saturday, 7 April from 18:00 at a celebration party and presentation evening involving most of the notable speakers and personalities from Manado.
The winners of the International Underwater Photography Shoot-Out Competition and OG Pictures of the Year competitions will be announced and showcased, and the ‘Master of the Competition’ will be named and crowned.
For more information please visit the website.
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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