News
Dominica’s Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort Launches Expanded Dive Operation & Announces Additional Rooms & New Amenities
As Part of the The Landmark “All-Inclusive, Island-Included” Resort’s £14 Million Reimagination, the Hotel’s Dive Operation – With New Boats, Expanded Facilities and Enhanced Shore Diving – Will Offer the Island’s Premier Dive Experience
Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, the “Nature Island’s” landmark, waterfront “All-Inclusive, Island-Included” resort in Dominica’s capital, Roseau, today launched its new dive operation as part of its historic USD$18 million (£14 million) reimagination. Coinciding with the resort’s evolution, Fort Young Hotel’s expanded dive operations will be under the management of William “Billy” Lawrence, an experienced local dive operator. The new dive programme includes the addition of two boats with a total capacity of 56 divers or 75 non-divers. Further, the resort will offer a one-of-a-kind resort shore diving experience, the only one on island. This allows guests to see and experience marine life on the house reefs and around the pier, including coral, octopus, frogfish, seahorse, nudibranchs, flying gurnards, batfish and more. Additionally, guests can experience underwater points of interest, such as: “The Canons” (canons from an 18th century Spanish vessel), “Shipwreck” (a private luxury yacht from the early 1900s), “Soap Factory” (old industrial equipment) and “Rum Cage” (submerged rum barrels for ocean aging). Guests will be able to rent equipment independently and enjoy what is expected to be one of the most sought-after shore diving experiences in the region. Guests can also take lessons and learn how to dive at the PADI certified dive shop.
A top 10 diving destination in the world, Dominica is home to some of the best diving across the globe, showcasing rugged pinnacles, drop-offs and abyss depths, along with a dynamic seascape of forested coral gardens, vibrant sponge life, seahorses, frogfish, flying gurnards and much more. A true natural wonder, Dominica boasts Champagne Reef, a result of bubbles rising up through the sand from underwater hot springs — all evidence of the island’s volcanic origins.
While diving has always been a hallmark of Fort Young Hotel’s offering, with its new boats, the resort can now accommodate larger groups and also lead whale watching excursions. In addition to being one of the region’s top dive destinations, Dominica also attracts visitors wanting to witness the island’s sperm whales who reside there year-round.
“Dominica is a world-class dive destination and we’re excited to offer visitors the opportunity to experience our unique marine life and points of interest,” said Lawrence. “These dive operation enhancements align perfectly with the Fort Young Hotel’s principles, as the operation follows sustainable diving practices such as responsible diver behavior, reef-friendly practices and proper waste disposal to minimize negative impacts on the marine ecosystem.”
Lawrence is a Dominica native and an experienced Senior Technician and Dive Operator. Among his qualifications include: Hyperbaric Chamber Technician/Trainer, Emergency First Response Instructor, Master Scuba Diver Trainer and Boat Captain with experience in biophysical assessment of benthic ecosystems.
Along with its new dive operation, Fort Young Hotel is introducing 60 new guestrooms, adding to the recently refurbished 40 Oceanfront rooms and suites. The new guest rooms, named the Fort Collection, bring the total room count to 100. Among the new rooms are Fort Mountain View rooms and Fort Ocean View rooms, both located on the newly constructed and renovated historical section of the property. The Fort Mountain View rooms offer breathtaking views of Dominica’s capital and the surrounding mountains while The Fort Ocean View rooms feature private balconies from which to enjoy the sea breeze and stunning sunsets. Both room categories are furnished with one king bed or two double beds, along with all the comforts of modern luxuries, and may be interconnected, providing flexibility for families and groups.
In addition to adding more guestrooms, the resort is unveiling a host of new curated amenities, including two new dining options, a gym, a rum & wine cellar and an art gallery, among others.
Fort Young Hotel is the Caribbean’s first “All-Inclusive, Island-Included,” granting guests access to the island’s “amenities” — from hiking, snorkeling and shore diving to walking tours and visits to local eateries — cultivating community and creating a truly immersive island experience. With this new model, guests can take advantage of the convenience of an all-inclusive stay while enjoying the best of Dominica’s land, sea and city adventures with guides and tour operators from our local community. This unconventional model reflects the resort’s commitment to a sustainable and locally-focused economy.
And, further underscoring Fort Young Hotel’s dedication to sustainability, the resort recently earned Green Globe Certification, one of the highest standards for sustainability worldwide. Only the second property in Dominica to earn this accolade, the resort is recognised for its multiple community initiatives and committed management team.
Fort Young Hotel is offering divers a special package to celebrate the new operation. The “Diver’s Paradise” offer includes: Stay for 7 nights and pay for 6; daily breakfast; roundtrip airport transfers; 5 days of 2-tank diving; waterfari tours; unlimited shore diving; and, all taxes and park fees. Rate from US$1,428 per person based on double occupancy in our Fort Mountain View room. To book, email: reservations@fortyounghotel.com.
For more information, visit https://www.fortyounghotel.com/. For enquiries contact reservations@fortyounghotel.com.
About Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort
Located on the water in Roseau, Dominica’s capital, Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort is the Caribbean’s first All-Inclusive, Island-Included resort. The country’s only downtown hotel, Fort Young Hotel affords guests unmatched proximity to the “Nature Island’s” vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, exhilarating activities and some of the island’s most prized attractions, like Trafalgar Falls, Middleham Falls, Freshwater Lake, segments of the Waitukubuli National Trail, and world-renowned diving. Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort offers a luxurious sense of seclusion, fine dining and meeting facilities. Fort Young Hotel can be reached at 767-448-5000 or info@fortyounghotel.com.
Blogs
Discover Curaçao with the Ultimate Dive Vacation Guide – 2024 DEMA Special Edition
Dive Travel Curaçao is thrilled to announce the launch of the Curaçao Dive Vacation Guide – 2024 DEMA Special Edition, an expertly curated resource that unveils the unparalleled dive experiences and vacation possibilities awaiting you in Curaçao. Produced exclusively for the Diving Equipment & Marketing Association (DEMA) Show 2024, this special edition guide is packed with exclusive insights, travel tips, and limited-time DEMA offers that make it easier than ever to explore Curaçao’s stunning underwater landscapes and vibrant culture.
Explore Curaçao’s Unmatched Diving Opportunities
With over 70 diverse dive sites along its southern coastline, Curaçao is a bucket-list destination for divers of all experience levels. From thriving coral reefs and intricate marine ecosystems to historic shipwrecks, the island offers a variety of underwater experiences that are hard to match. The Curaçao Dive Vacation Guide – 2024 DEMA Special Edition provides detailed recommendations for both shore and boat diving, making it a valuable tool for divers seeking the best entry points, pristine reefs, and hidden treasures along the coastline. Whether you are an avid wreck diver, or a beginner interested in shallow reefs, Curaçao has it all.
Uncover Eco-Friendly Dive Resorts and Top Dive Operators
This DEMA 2024-exclusive Curaçao guide goes beyond diving to feature insider information on Curaçao’s eco-friendly accommodations, dive resorts, and top-rated dive operators committed to sustainable dive tourism. From all-inclusive resorts that support coral reef restoration initiatives to charming boutique hotels near prime dive locations, the guide helps travelers find the ideal stay to match their vacation goals. It also spotlights trusted dive operators on the island who prioritize environmental preservation, offering travelers a way to enjoy the underwater world responsibly.
Immerse Yourself in Curaçao’s Culture, Culinary Delights, and Adventure
Curaçao offers a vibrant Caribbean culture rich in history, music, and culinary fusion. The guide reveals Curaçao’s hidden gems, including culinary hotspots, historical sites, and eco-tourism opportunities that will appeal to both divers and non-divers. Visitors can explore the island’s iconic architecture, savor a diverse range of dishes influenced by Caribbean, European, and South American flavors, and embark on land-based eco-adventures, such as hiking, cave exploration, and visiting national parks.
Exclusive DEMA 2024 Specials and Limited-Time Dive Packages
This special edition guide features limited-time DEMA 2024 offers on dive packages, accommodations, and excursions. Travelers who book through Dive Travel Curaçao, or our Curaçao dive travel partners attending DEMA, will have access to exclusive discounts on custom dive vacation packages, making it easier to plan an affordable, high-quality dive trip that fits your preferences. The Curaçao Dive Vacation Guide – 2024 DEMA Special Edition is designed to simplify your travel planning and help you dive deeper into the incredible experiences that Curaçao has to offer.
It’s Time to Dive Curaçao!
Now is the time to discover why Curaçao is a top dive destination in the Caribbean! Dive Travel Curaçao invites you to experience an unforgettable dive vacation with exclusive DEMA 2024 specials tailored just for you. To secure your spot, download a copy of the Curaçao Dive Vacation Guide – 2024 DEMA Special Edition and contact the Dive Travel Curaçao team to start customizing your Caribbean dive adventure today.
For more information and bookings, please visit Dive Curaçao’s website or contact our reservations team directly.
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.
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