News
Meet Our Club: iDive
Want to join a dive club? In this series, we take a look at grassroots diving and find out what’s happening on the club scene in the UK and around the world…
What is the name of your club?
iDive
Where is your club based?
We are based in Ipswich, Suffolk.
Club affiliations (i.e. BSAC, PADI, SAA, etc.)
BSAC
Where and when do you meet?
We meet at the Public Swimming Pool, Fore Street, Ipswich IP4 1JZ every Thursday evening from 7.30pm to 9.00pm and after that we can be found in the neighbouring Lord Nelson pub.
How do you respond to the challenge of recruiting new members?
We run regular try-dives for those that want to have a go at scuba and use the notice board at the pool, some local PR, Facebook and our website to publicise the club’s activities. This has brought a steady stream of new members, both novices and already qualified individuals returning to the sport or crossing over from other organisations.
What facilities and resources does the club use/have?
iDive has two RIBs that can take 6 divers each and a small inflatable boat that is used for dive cover on shore dives. The boats are kitted out with navigation electronics and all the safety equipment you would expect to find on a dive boat such as O2, first aid kit and AED. We try to make as much use as possible of the club boats with some regular weeks and long weekends away around the UK, particularly the south coast, throughout the diving season.
The club has a broad range of experience and is lucky to have three 1st Class divers and a national instructor along with a good mix of novices through to advanced and technical divers. We have a wide selection of equipment for student divers to use in their early stages of training including 10 full sets of regs, cylinders and BCDs.
What sort of diving do you do, and where?
There is a very wide range of diving undertaken by the club. There are technical members diving on mixed gasses and rebreathers pushing to greater depths and then the full range from inland sites, shallow shore dives to club boat dives around the UK and charter boat dives. We dive off the Suffolk and Norfolk coast when conditions allow and reasonable visibility is possible.
There are a lot of shipwrecks off this coast to explore. We run annual week-long trips to Cornwall and Dorset taking the club RIBs and organise charter boat diving in mixed locations including places such as Scotland, The Farne Isles, Swanage, the North Sea off the Dutch coast and The Channel amongst others.
Do you organise any club trips abroad, and if so, where?
We do organise diving trips abroad; recent destinations have included the Red Sea, Spain, Malta, Lanzarote, Sardinia and Mexico.
Does your club have any special interests such as conservation, special projects, etc?
We have a wide range of interests within the club. There are keen photographers, a number of members with an interest in marine archaeology and maritime history, along with those who like to monitor and appreciate marine wildlife.
Does your club have any claims to fame or any particularly interesting stories… or members?
We are a long established BSAC club having been running for 62 years now. With such a long history there have been several characters over the years and some of the earlier members have some hair-raising stories of homebuilt kit and practices that we wouldn’t dream of these days. Although the club branch 0032 is 62 years old we are unusual in having merged with another local club just 5 years ago.
We try to get involved in local actions to keep our environment clean with beach cleans and clearing rivers in areas with particular issues of dumping rubbish of all sorts. More recently we supported our council run pool celebrating 120 year since it was built by running free mini try dives over a weekend where anyone could just turn up and have a go with sub-aqua equipment in the pool.
What are the club’s plans for the future?
Like most clubs, new members are the lifeblood of the club’s future but there is also a need for a good mix of experience. Without the right mix novices can’t progress and instructors have too much to do so getting the mix right is our focus in the short term. We are developing experience so there are enough instructors and assistant instructors to take on training from older members. Ideally, we’d like to get our membership up to around 100 but of course the other key aim is to have as many of these members as active as possible whatever their experience and dive preferences.
Where can people find out more about your club?
More details about the club can be found on our website www.idive.org.uk and on our Facebook pages, search for iDive – Ipswich Dive Club or email info@idive.org.uk
Finally… if you could sum up your club in just one sentence, what would it be?
A friendly club that welcomes members whatever type of diving they enjoy.
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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