News
New 2021 PADI AmbassaDivers announced to inspire people everywhere to connect with the ocean
PADI® announces new AmbassaDivers on the 2021 team. In their unique ways, these individuals are sharing their love for diving, acting to safeguard ocean health and exciting others to pursue their own passions. Together, they are a motivating force in their communities and across the globe, leading and encouraging others to seek adventure and save the ocean.
PADI launched the AmbassaDiver program in 2015 to help amplify the stories of divers who inspire others to love and care for our ocean planet. PADI AmbassaDivers are part of a team committed to elevating diving, bringing awareness to social or environmental issues and encouraging more people to explore, protect and experience the underwater world. PADI welcomes the following individuals to the 2021 AmbassaDiver roster:
Paris Norriss: Paris is an outdoor enthusiast and host of the adventure travel show Guy in Dubai – with scuba diving and freediving playing central roles in his adventures throughout the show. To date, more than 15 million people tune in annually on Amazon Prime, OSN, and inflight entertainment systems on Emirates and British Airways. Originally from the UK, now based out of Dubai, Paris aims to inspire people to discover the world (above and below the surface), and to take action to follow their passions.
Taylor Walston: Originally from California, USA, Taylor now lives on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, where freediving has powerfully changed her life. As a professional photographer and an ambassador with One Ocean Diving, she works to spread awareness about the importance of shark conservation and ocean preservation. In 2020, Taylor encountered more than 10 different species of sharks while exploring the underwater world, and reached a three-minute static breath hold.
Doudou: Doudou is an adventurer, diver, filmmaker and conservationist with more than 1 million followers on social media in China. As a child she was scared of the water, and it wasn’t until she came across diving in 2009 that she actually overcame her fears and discovered the beauty of the sea. Since then, she has become a certified freediver and has launched an incredible career in underwater photography and filmmaking. Doudou is the first female National Geographic Explorer from China, having worked on projects like Planet or Plastic and Extreme China.
Yukie Higashinita: Based in Japan, Yukie became obsessed with the charm of the ocean the very first time she went diving in Guam at the age of 20. Since then, she dives as often as possible, with her favorite experience diving with a massive school of hammerhead sharks off Mikomoto Island. Yukie earned her PADI Rescue Diver certification at the age of 24, and hopes to share the charm of the ocean with as many people as possible.
Miranda Krestovnikoff
Miranda Krestovnikoff: Miranda has been traveling and diving the world for more than 20 years as a TV and radio wildlife presenter for networks like FOX and BBC. When she learned to dive while studying zoology at Bristol University, she had no idea that diving would become such a major part of her career. When she’s not traveling, Miranda is a mother of two and loves diving the chilly waters around the UK. Through her work on and off screen, she hopes to connect people with nature and the need for conservation.
Francisco Delgado: Born and raised in Patagonia, Francisco is a lover of all outdoor sports and has worked in theater, radio and TV throughout his career. After winning the TV show Big Brother in Argentina in 2015, he toured the Riviera Maya and dedicated himself to studying marine conservation. He currently resides in Cozumel, Mexico, with his two children, where he works as a PADI Instructor and an adventure lifestyle social media influencer for brands in Latin America. Francisco’s mission is to introduce younger generations to the underwater world and teach them how to respect and protect it.
Tom Park: Tom is a photographer and filmmaker with a passion for creating underwater films and marketing materials for tourism boards and ocean-focused businesses. His work has been featured in an array of international magazines and galleries. He also regularly works with marine biologists to help safeguard his local Sydney waterways, and volunteers his time to support non-profit ocean-conservation groups. Tom continuously aims to inspire others to protect the ocean, and hopefully experience the underwater world for themselves.
Martyna Skura: Born and raised in Poland, Martyna has spent the last 10 years traveling and working overseas. Thailand is where she found her passion for diving and ocean conservation, and since then she’s become a PADI IDC Staff Instructor and EFR Instructor Trainer. She’s now living in the Maldives, and is working toward becoming a PADI Master Scuba Instructor. Martyna’s mission is to share her love of diving, the beauty of the oceans and the importance of protecting them with others.
Kaoruko Inou: Kaoruko has created a profession of her own: underwater reporter. After graduating from university in Japan in 2010, she has traveled around the world to report on and share her underwater explorations, and has appeared on many popular Japanese TV programs. In 2019, Kaoruko became the first female Japanese certified whale swim guide in the Kingdom of Tonga.
“This esteemed group epitomizes what it means to seek adventure and save the ocean,” says Kristin Valette-Wirth, Chief Brand and Membership Officer for PADI Worldwide. “They are true torchbearers, dedicated to exploring and protecting the underwater world. And we are committed to amplifying these AmbassaDivers’ stories to inspire more people around the globe to deepen their connection with our water planet.”
Learn more about the PADI AmbassaDiver team here.
Follow PADI on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to keep up to date on their ongoing projects, dive adventures and conservation efforts throughout the year.
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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