News
Curaçao, Ocean Encounters, and LionsDive Beach Resort win 23 awards at the 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards
The results of the 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards are in, and the Dutch Caribbean Island of Curaçao, Ocean Encounters, and LionsDive Beach Resort have emerged as the indisputable winners in the world of scuba diving. These prestigious awards, celebrating excellence in the industry, mark yet another year of inclusion for Curaçao, Ocean Encounters, and LionsDive Beach Resort.
The 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards is a highly regarded annual event that allows the global scuba diving community to recognize and honor the best in the business. Divers, enthusiasts, and industry experts from around the world cast their votes to determine the winners, making it a true testament to the excellence of the recipients.
What Makes the 2024 Reader’s Choice Awards Significant?
The 2024 Reader’s Choice Awards hold great significance in the scuba diving community for several reasons. Firstly, it represents the collective voice of divers and enthusiasts, making it a true reflection of the industry’s preferences.
Secondly, these awards are a hallmark of quality and service, and securing a top position is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the awardees.
Finally, the awards set the standard for excellence in the scuba diving industry and guide divers and travelers in choosing their next adventure.
Curaçao: A Jewel in the Caribbean
Once again, Curaçao has demonstrated its standing as one of the world’s premier scuba diving destinations. Nestled between Aruba and Bonaire, this Dutch Caribbean Island has been awarded the #2 spot for Best Shore Diving Destination and the #3 spot for Best Snorkeling Destination. Moreover, Curaçao secured top positions in several other categories, including a Top 5 spot for Best Overall Dive Destination, Best Beginner Dive Destination, Best Macro Life, Underwater Photography, Health of Marine Environment, Wall Diving, and Best Value.
Ocean Encounters: Pinnacle of Dive Operation Excellence
Ocean Encounters, a Premier PADI and SSI Dive Shop located in Curaçao, has soared to the top of the Caribbean’s dive operators. The dive shop was honored with several awards, including #2 Dive Shop for Attention to Safety, #3 for Quality of Facilities, and #3 for Quality of Staff. Ocean Encounters also secured spots in the Top 5 for Best Overall Dive Center in the Caribbean, Quality of Boats, Rental Gear, and a Top 10 spot for Quality of Training and Courses.
Jeremiah Peek, Managing Director of Ocean Encounters, expressed his delight in this achievement, saying, “We are thrilled to be a part of Curaçao’s success story. The 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards highlight our commitment to providing the ultimate dive experience. We are deeply grateful to our team for their hard work and dedication and all the divers who recognized their efforts.”
LionsDive Beach Resort: A Paradise for Divers
LionsDive Beach Resort, a serene haven in Curaçao, proudly walked away with awards for Quality of Dive Resort (#3), Best Overall Dive Resort in the Caribbean (Top 5), Quality of Rooms (Top 5), and Quality of Staff (Top 10). Additionally, the resort achieved recognition in the Top 10 categories for Dive Resort Value and Quality of Restaurants.
Mimi Luttge, General Manager of LionsDive Beach Resort, expressed her gratitude for the accolades, stating, “We are truly honored to have our resort acknowledged by the scuba diving community. These awards underscore our commitment to providing an exceptional experience for all our guests.”
A Heartfelt Thank You
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the divers, enthusiasts, and industry experts who participated in the 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards voting process. Your support and recognition motivate us to continue striving for excellence in the world of scuba diving.
A World-Class Scuba Diving Destination
The accolades received by Curaçao, Ocean Encounters, and LionsDive Beach Resort firmly establish Curaçao as one of the world’s best overall scuba diving destinations. With its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and a commitment to safety and quality, Curaçao offers an unparalleled scuba diving experience for dive groups, families, and individuals.
Plan Your Scuba Diving Adventure Today!
For those seeking the ultimate scuba diving experience, look no further. Visit Curaçao, explore the underwater wonders with Ocean Encounters, and unwind at LionsDive Beach Resort. The 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards have spoken – Curaçao, Ocean Encounters, and LionsDive Beach Resort are your go-to destination for a memorable and world-class scuba diving vacation.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to dive into the enchanting waters of Curaçao and experience the award-winning services of Ocean Encounters and LionsDive Beach Resort. Your next adventure awaits!
For more information, bookings, and inquiries, please visit www.curacao.com, www.oceanencounters.com, and www.lionsdive.com.
News
Santa Divers take the Plunge for Charity
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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