News
Diving with… Pedro Luis Ambrosi Zueco, Scuba Caribe Mexico – Playa del Carmen
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?
Pedro Luis Ambrosi Zueco
What is the name of your business?
Scuba Caribe Mexico
What is your role within the business?
Dive Team Leader Playa del Carmen. Organizing the daily dive operations, supervising and mentoring of dive instructor team, control of company quality standards and staff training.
How long has the business operated for?
Scuba Caribe has been around for 27 years. We have recently received the PADI 25-year of Outstanding Service Member Award.
How long have you dived for, and what qualification are you?
I have been diving since 2001, my latest qualification level in the PADI Ranking is IDC Staff Instructor. I also hold a Full Cave Diver certification. This year will be my 8th year as a dive professional. In my travels I have visited and dived in over 12 countries, my favorite being the Maldives, and a close second place are the cenotes in Mexico.
What is your favorite type of diving?
Any dive with a strong current is always fun for me. Holding your position on the reef in strong currents always held some excitement for me. Maldives diving, usually had some very strong currents so I learned there and have loved it ever since. Diving with sharks holds a high place as well. You can dive with manta rays and turtles and it is fun, but sharks somehow always get my adrenaline pumping. And last but not least: cave diving is always a special experience. The clearest waters in the world, over 300 mts of visibility, the hypnotizing effects of a halocline, the light show provided by the rays of the sun and the rock formations that are thousands of years old.
If you could tell people one thing about your business (or maybe more!) to make them want to visit you what would it be?
Playa del Carmen Mexico has something for everybody. We offer bull shark diving in the wintertime, cavern diving in the amazing cenotes all year round. Cenotes diving is only possible in a handful of countries and Mexico can be considered one of the main destinations where you can do it. We are also one of the few dive operators who do direct dive trips to the island of Cozumel to dive the wonderful reefs there. Not to mention the abundant marine life we have here on our local reefs.
What is your favorite dive in your location and why?
When it comes to local reefs, my favourite spot has to be the Sabalos reef. A colorful reef that has a decent current all year round. The dive site has some hidden little swim-through passages and you can spot a large variety of marine life ranging from barracudas and turtles, to nurse sharks and tiny seahorses.
Of the many, one of my favorite cenotes dives is Tajma Ha. Besides mesmerizing light shows, this cenote has much more to offer for both cavern and cave divers. It’s decorated with stalactites, stalagmites and plenty of hidden fossils. Haloclines in the deeper areas create interesting mirror like effects as divers penetrate the layer of salt water, which is below the fresh water. For cave divers there is the “Chinese Garden”.
In Cozumel, Palancar Caves is my top candidate – a maze of swim throughs and canyons that are beautifully decorated with corals and sponges. Giant lobsters, turtles, rays, nurse sharks and butterfly fish are common here.
What types of diving are available in your location?
Shallow reef diving – we have several local reefs with a nice sandy bottom at around 12 mts – perfect for beginner divers and courses. Also several deeper sites and close by, abundant in life and a nice medium current to along with it. Deep divers are also served as we there is a deep wreck dive – 27 ms, and some deeper reefs as well. Cavern and cave diving in the Riviera Maya cenotes is one of the highlights of any visit to Mexico. As for marine life – in the winter months (Dec – Mar) we have bull sharks coming to give birth, and we do observation dives to have a pretty close up look.
What do you find most rewarding about your current role?
Mentoring new instructors and watching them develop into great professionals with a passion for their job. Teaching them good diving/ teaching habits and the value of good and honest hard work. Finding solutions for problems and working and teaching with the local staff. Mexicans have an amazing work mentality and a great sense of humor!
What is your favorite underwater creature?
Mantis Shrimps, ever since i saw these little critters in the Maldives I have been fascinated by them. So small yet so deadly and fast, and very comical looking too. This little shrimp has the fastest attack in world, it strikes as fast as a speeding bullet. It strikes so fast that it creates a vacuum bubble, when this bubble collapses it causes a small shockwave that knocks out its prey. Not bad for a little shrimp is it not? It is very intelligent as well. My favorite of the species is the peacock shrimp.
Are there any exciting changes / developments coming up in the near future?
This year we launched our direct to Cozumel dive service and this kicked off really well. We hope to expand our cenote and Cozumel diving aspects.
Is your center involved in any environmental work?
We have adopted a dive site with PADI Project Aware and are doing monthly clean up dives there. We tend to use as much environmentally responsible materials and ways of working. We banned the use of plastic cups and are using paper ones on our boats. We switched to a mostly digital system for all student manuals, thanks to PADI and their digital platform this has been a great change as customers don’t have to use much paper anymore. All our courses and Discover Scuba Diving experiences are begun with explaining the value and importance of the coral reefs and to be careful with them. We are a member of the Saving our Sharks organization in Playa del Carmen. Every winter, we dive with these amazing creatures and all guests are explained the importance of sharks and their role in the ecosystem. Also every diver that does these dives with us, automatically donates to this organization.
How do you see the SCUBA / Freediving / snorkeling industry overall? What changes would you make?
The diving industry is constantly evolving, new technology and and new methods make it safer and more accessible to more and more people. It is a dive center’s responsibility to uphold the highest safety standards. Snorkeling is one of the biggest activities in any destination, therefore this has to be one of the best supervised. We do our part in training and updating our staff in proper procedures. Having regular staff trainings and evaluations is a really indispensable tool for any centre to uphold its quality and safety standards.
What would you say to our visitors to promote the diving you have to offer?
Mexico has it all. If you want to learn how to dive, we have excellent and beautiful shallow reefs to take you for your first dives. Want to improve your level of diving, deep, drift and wreck dives are here as well. If you are looking for some unique experiences, then try cenotes diving. The ancients Mayans considered these caverns entrances to another world – Come and see for yourself what they meant. And lastly, for the thrill seeker: nothing beats a dive where you are circled by several 6-8ft/2-4m Bull sharks. Up close and personal – you bet!
Where can our visitors find out more about your business?
- www.scubacaribe.com
- info@scubacaribe.com
- @scubacaribemex
- @scubacaribe
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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