News
Get ready for DIVE 2015 – the 25th Anniversary of the Birmingham Dive Show
Set aside as much of the weekend of 24/25 October as possible, because the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham in the UK will be awash with divers – and you and your friends and family need to be there with them.
DIVE 2015 is the Show of the Year, and it’s an extra-special event because it marks 25 years of successful Shows organised at the NEC by the DIVER Group in that time.
Booking ahead brings significant cash savings but every ticket sale brings with it the chance to win a fortnight’s dive trip for two to the Mexican Pacific worth £8000 in the Grand Prize Draw.
ON THE FLOOR
DIVE 2015 speaker Paul Rose
Get your bearings at the New Product Showcase, a snapshot of the diving-equipment market’s latest offerings, and decide which kit you want to look at in more depth around the aisles.
You might even decide to try some of it out in the Technical Pool, especially if it’s one of the new generation of rebreathers.
You don’t have to be a CCR diver to get wet, of course – for beginners the Try-Dive Pool awaits, with Stoney Cove dive school divers standing by to introduce you to the joys a regulator, tank and BC can offer.
As usual, one of the pleasures of the Dive Show is the chance to meet the people who have hosted your dive holidays in the past or who will welcome you on trips in the future.
DIVE 2015 speaker Mark Powell
Whether you’re catching up or looking for information, check out the Asia-Pacific Showcase, Caribbean Village, British Isles Experience and all the other parts of the diving world represented around the hall and find out where your next dive-trip will take you.
Kit ticked, holidays ticked – and the third part of the equation is skills development, with a number of training agencies represented at DIVE 2015.
The PADI VILLAGE and SSI ZONE offer a further swathe of training and travel ideas, while the British sub-aqua club, which is holding its annual conference at the NEC, will be present in force with its branch pods.
Then there is the Photozone, where kit, holidays and training combine in a magnificent outpouring of underwater photographic talent. Take part in judging the British Society of Underwater Photographers’ annual prints competition and get involved in the constant exchange of tips and ideas flowing between speakers, exhibitors and visitors.
DIVE 2015 speaker Monty Halls
ON THE STAGES
DIVE 2015 speaker Louise Trewavas
The 25th Dive Show line-up of diving presentations take place on the main DIVER Stage, the Centre Stage and in the two Ocean Theatres, and although it’s early days yet, we can promise you treats in store:
Paul Rose: “What will you be talking about, Paul?” “I’m here at Pond Inlet about to head north to establish camp at the northern tip of Baffin Island – how about ‘Diving the Wild Places’?” Sounds good!
Mark Powell: “Training Doesn’t Work” – some of the problems with current scuba-diving training and what we can do to fix those problems. Controversy alert – not for the first time with this popular Show presenter.
Monty Halls will be back from an exciting top-secret expedition “and doubtless I’ll be blithering on about it at the Dive Shows,” he said in last month’s column, so stand by for hot news! Monty’s custom Land-Rover Defender and Humber RIB will be back too, and with him at the Show. The trip? We hear that sharks may have been involved…
DIVE 2015 speaker Alex Mustard
Louise Trewavas: “The All-Time Top 10 Diving Mistakes – And How To Survive Them.” We’ve all been there – more advice you can’t afford to miss.
Alex Mustard is the man who straightened us all out about the contents of our favourite Red Sea wreck, and he’ll be back with a new twist on “Thistlegorm’s Cargo” which requires you to get involved.
Alex will also be talking in the PhotoZone alongside Martin Edge – and talking of the PhotoZone, drop into the audience at the Centre Stage to see some of the finest double acts since Eric & Ernie, including Saeed Rashid & Nigel Wade, Nick & Caroline Robertson-Brown and Jane Morgan & Gill McDonald.
Win an £8000 trip to the Land of the Giants just by turning up for DIVE 2015!
A landmark show, a landmark prize: By entering the DIVE 2015 Grand Prize Draw, you and a chosen companion have the chance of winning a trip of a lifetime.
Your jumping-off point will be the bustling marina resort of Cabo San Lucas in Mexico. From there you will join a luxury liveaboard to dive in the eastern Pacific. Your trip will take in some of those dive-sites that make even the most experienced divers go weak at the knees – the spectacular Socorro Islands, San Benedicto and Roca Partida.
Expect to dive with the super-friendly giant Pacific manta rays (their wingspan has been known to reach 9m!), dolphins and sharks often in their hundreds, whale sharks, seals and ( from January to April, subject to availability) humpback whales. This area isn’t referred to as “the Mexican Galapagos” for nothing.
The prize, organised by UK tour operator The Scuba Place, comprises flights from London to Cabo San Lucas, one night all-inclusive hotel accommodation in the suite-only Dreams Cabo San Lucas Resort & Spa; nine nights on board either the spectacular Nautilus Belle Amie or Explorer on a full-board basis, and two further nights back in Cabo to get your land-legs back! All airport transfers are included.
Socorro is one of the hottest dive destinations on the market, so don’t miss this or any opportunity to dive it! All this could be yours and a buddy’s – just buy a DIVE 2015 ticket! Terms & conditions apply.
Buy tickets to DIVE 2015 here.
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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