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Diving with…Lanny Vogel, Underworld Tulum, Riviera Maya, Mexico

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In this ongoing series, we speak to the people who run dive centres, resorts and liveaboards from around the world about their businesses and the diving they have to offer…


What is your name?

Lanny Vogel

What is the name of your business?

Underworld Tulum

What is your role within the business?

Joint Owner (with my wife Claire). Cave, Tech and CCR Instructor.

How long has the business operated for?

4 Years

How long have you dived for, and what qualification are you?

Diving for just over 20 years.  Currently a Full Cave, Technical, CCR and Recreational Instructor with TDI, IANTD, BSAC, PADI and RAID.

What is your favorite type of diving?

I love most types of diving, but long DPV Cave Dives on a Rebreather are usually pretty special!

If you could tell people one thing about your business (or maybe more!) to make them want to visit you what would it be?

It is difficult to pick one thing, but I think the fact that we strive to give our divers the best possible experience stands out.  Our apartments are purpose built for divers, our rental gear is the best in Mexico, we only employ very experienced guides or instructors that we have personally dived with, and we offer free nitrox on all dives.

What is your favorite dive in your location and why?

We are lucky to have 9 of the 10 biggest underwater cave systems on earth within half an hour of our front door, so this is a hard question!  I think the Pit is probably my favourite though, for sheer variety – you can have a great recreational cavern dive, some beautifully decorated shallow cave or a deep trimix dive, all at the same site.

What types of diving are available in your location?

We specialise in Cavern and Cave diving, offering training all the way up to Full Cave.  We can also safely introduce recreational divers to the overhead environment through guided cavern diving.  In addition, we offer a full range of technical and recreational courses including CCR and Scooter courses.  The Meso American reef system (second only to the Great Barrier Reef) is a few hundred metres from the coast of Tulum, so the ocean diving is pretty good here as well.

What do you find most rewarding about your current role?

Running a business in the heart of such great caves is pretty cool in general, but a couple of specifics are:

Seeing a skilled and safe cave diver that I have trained is probably the most rewarding thing I have experienced in diving.  Although being part of our annual Cave Camp event – www.cavecamp.com – bringing divers and instructors from all over the world together to enjoy great dives, workshops, courses and socials is also amazing.

What is your favorite underwater creature?

My wife, co-owner, business partner and fellow cave instructor Claire.

Are there any exciting changes / developments coming up in the near future?

We have the third Cave Camp event coming up in September, which brings together some great cave instructors, divers and explorers together for 2 weeks of courses, workshops, diving and socials.  We also have DiveFest Mexico coming up in 2019 working with BSAC to introduce UK recreational divers to some great cavern and ocean diving.

As a center what is the biggest problem you face at the moment?

Our biggest issue is lack of time!  We make sure we keep current in backmount, sidemount, DPV and rebreather diving.  As well as guiding and teaching, we also try and make time to explore new cave.  This is in addition to keeping the business running and looking after our growing pack of rescue dogs.

Is your center involved in any environmental work?

We strongly emphasise cave conversation in all our overhead courses and our recreational students are encouraged to pick up plastic waste on any ocean dive.  We are also very active in local animal rescue charities and will always have rescue dogs staying with us before being re-homed.  At the last count, we have rescued or fostered around 85 dogs and cats in the local area.  Most of our customers just about prefer diving to playing with a cute foster puppy, but it is pretty close!

How do you see the SCUBA / Freediving / snorkeling industry overall? What changes would you make?

I think the diving industry overall is quite a mixed bag.  There are a lot of superb instructors and centres out there, but unfortunately there are also examples of taking short cuts or providing sub-optimal kit to save money.   Dumbing down of training is a concern.  Online learning is good, but it should supplement rather than replace instructor-led training.

On the positive side there are some inspirational young instructors coming into the industry.  Improvements in lighting, computer, scooter and Rebreather technology have also made a positive impact.

What would you say to our visitors to promote the diving you have to offer?

Cavern and Cave Diving is a unique experience within diving.  A guided cavern tour allows recreational divers to enjoy some incredibly beautiful sites.  Cave training is a step up, that requires a lot of precision and skill, but the rewards are massive.

Where can our visitors find out more about your business? 

There are full details about our guided diving, training and accommodation on www.underworldtulum.com.

Details of Cave Camp instructors and activities are available at www.cavecamp.com.

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Santa Divers take the Plunge for Charity

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santa divers

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!

santa divers

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.

santa divers

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Dive into Adventure at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Diving Destination in the Maldives

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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.

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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.

maldives

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.

maldives

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.

Maldives

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.

Maldives

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.

maldives

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.

Maldives

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.

Maldives

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.

Maldvies

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.

Maldives

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

Maldives

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.

 

Maldives

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.

Maldives

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.

Maldives

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

 

Maldives

 

 

 

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