News

Diving with…Simon Mackay, Abyss Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Published

6 years ago

July 16, 2018

Team Scubaverse

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?

Simon Mackay

What is the name of your business?

Abyss Fuerteventura

What is your role within the business?

Owner / Instructor

How long has the business operated for?

Abyss has been in operation since 2001 and I’ve owned it since November 2012.

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

My first dive was at the age of 16 (BSAC course with the Army) in 1988 then became instructor (PADI MSDT) in 2011 and Deptherapy PRO instructor 2012.

What is your favorite type of diving?

Sidemount and wrecks .. it’s a great combination.

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

At Abyss we only dive in small numbers (max four per group). The dive centre is run by myself and my wife so we only ever have small dive groups and we try to fit the dives to what the divers wants and needs.

What is your favorite dive in your location and why?

El Jablito is a great site as we have an abundance of wild life. It’s good for beginners to old hands alike, and we regularly spot angel sharks.

What types of diving are available in your location?

We have both shore and boat diving available here but sadly no drifts or wrecks on Fuerteventura.

What do you find most rewarding about your current role?

I love teaching and each day is different from Open Water one day to Sidemount speciality the next.

What is your favorite underwater creature?

I guess it has to be the Angel shark but barracuda come a close second.

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

There has been some chatting among the dive centres here on Fuerteventura about the possibility of our own wreck on the island.. it’s something we really could do with ..

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

We strive to ensure we comply with all the Spanish and Canarian Laws and rules but we still see freelancers not abiding by the same laws and still diving in the same locations as us.

Is your center involved in any environmental work?

We actively encourage divers to do clean up dives at least once a month at our local dive site, as well as reporting angel shark sightings to the Shark Alliance so they can build data on why they are in decline.

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

The move to E-learning is a good green initiative to cut back on waste and transportation of materials that get used once and often thrown away. More could be done between the dive industry, government bodies and the general diving public to ensure the industry remains safe and standards are maintained.

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

With Fuerteventura only 4 hours from the UK, it’s nearly as close as some UK inland dive sites from your home town .. but the difference is we have year round sun .. with water temperatures of 17-24 degs, and if you have non-diving friends (do they even exist I only know divers lol) then we have miles of golden sandy dunes to top up the tan.

Where can our visitors find out more about your business?

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News

Santa Divers take the Plunge for Charity

Published

8 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Team Scubaverse

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

Blogs

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

Published

2 days ago

November 19, 2024

Team Scubaverse

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.

maldives

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