News
Miss Scuba Netherlands visits Pharaoh Dive Club
The excellent work of the Miss Scuba International programme is spreading across Europe. This week Pharaoh Dive Club were delighted to welcome to Roots Miss Scuba Netherlands, Jessica Wohrmann, who came to learn more about the Red Sea and the environmental issues facing it.
Jessica is a keen diver and has a lot of experience diving and teaching in the Dutch Antilles but had never been to the Red Sea.
The Pharaoh Dive Club team had some questions for Jessica:
PDC: We asked Jessica what her hopes and goals are for her year as Miss Scuba Netherlands…
JW: “Firstly I want to encourage more young people to take up this great sport. It is very apparent in my country that it is considered a ‘mature’ activity with an ageing active base; I don’t know why! When I can get my pictures across various media, I hope that younger people will see that it’s not a macho or mature world. Although I am a model and Miss Scuba Netherlands, they will also see it’s not a glamorous sport, but it’s a fun, relaxing and exhilarating experience, that virtually anyone can do and get the most amazing memories from.”
“The second thing is I want to help make the public aware of the damage that we are all doing to our seas and what the long term result will be. I don’t think it is an inevitable disaster and irreversible but we need to act now. I know that sounds like I am on stage at a pageant saying what everyone expects me to say, but I have already won the title – now it’s about really making a difference no matter how small.”
PDC: Why did you come out to Roots?
JW: “My colleagues from Miss Scuba United Kingdom had told me about the fantastic and educational time that they had competing for their title with Pharaoh Dive Club. How they had been involved with school visits getting the children interested in completing a beach clean-up with them. How they had been given a background course on Marine Biology at Open Ocean Science Centre. They also were glowing about the friendly staff and of course how amazing the diving was.”
“I thought as I hadn’t been to the Red Sea which is undoubtedly the best diving location close to Europe, lets go. I contact Pharaoh and they were delighted to extend the warm welcome they gave to the UK team.”
PDC: And now you are here, how has it been?
JW: “I was warned that this time of year is still a little chilly. I think they were worried I was a delicate flower, but I have been totally amazed by the quality of the reefs and the fish life. It has given me the confidence to promote my message to the younger potential dive set that you don’t have to either be a hardy north sea diver battling weather and cold nor do you need to travel to the Caribbean to enjoy our fabulous sport. There is world class diving four hours away!”
PDC: What about the environment?
JW: “Yes, I got involved with a beach and reef clean up, but to be fair the reefs close to Roots are pretty clean as they are adopted under the Project Aware programme; however, further afield the plastics and general rubbish issue was very saddening.”
“I saw the work the dive team did with the local schools to educate the kids about the environment, which is great, but it doesn’t address the real issues and I don’t know if there is an answer other than to keep picking up the litter.”
“The problem is clearly a relatively new one, Egypt didn’t really have plastic bottles 10 years ago, Coke was sold in glass returnable bottles. That stopped for the sake of progress and now the country is littered with the results. It’s a little ironic that Europe is now back to returnable bottles. The companies that produce the rubbish are ultimately the ones that need to resolve the issue but that’s a long way off in Egypt.”
PDC: What’s next for Miss Scuba Netherlands?
JW: “When I go home I will be attending dive events to promote my goals. I will also do that with my social media presences which is quite strong. Then I really need to go and do some diving with some local clubs too, let them know I am serious about helping rejuvenate the diving in the Netherlands. Hopefully I will also be back at Roots later in the year and see the reefs in full bloom with warmer water.”
For more information about the Miss Scuba International programme, Roots Red Sea or Pharaoh Dive Club visit the websites www.rootsredsea.com, www.pharaohdiveclub.com or www.missscuba.com.
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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