Blogs
The Bahamas: a sharky adventure with a splash of rum and airport drama!
The Bahamas are famous amongst divers around the world as being one of the best places in the world to dive with sharks – lots of sharks, and lots of different species.
On the 9th January 2024, a group of 15 divers from Oyster Diving, of varying different abilities, travelled from the UK to Nassau.
Arriving in Nassau we were joined by Dave and Julie, two of our American cousins who have been on previous Oyster Diving holidays.
From here we took a short 15-seater flight to Bimini where the journey got more interesting. On arrival the airport was closed and we were effectively stranded on the runway with no way to get out.
Thankfully our Pilot radioed the customs guys who had packed up for the day early and headed home. After a while they eventually returned, stamped our passports and we left the airport. We then were told that the mini-bus that takes you to the ferry terminal had also stopped for the day, so the Customs guys did several runs in their cars to take us to the ferry.
The ferry driver kindly dropped us off on the North Island right on our doorstep at the famous resort, ‘Bimini Big Game Club’. We dropped our kit and made use of the onsite bar, restaurant and extensive cocktail menu.
The next morning we checked in with the dive centre to do our first dive of the holiday. There was no messing around; we headed straight for the sandy area where the Great Hammerheads hangout.
Due to poor visibility caused by some recent rain, unfortunately the dive was called off, so we made our way to a local reef for a chilled dive where the viz was much better. On returning to the jetty of our resort some of our group made use of the cage that hangs in the water. Here you can find about 10 bull sharks circling around waiting for a fish or two to be thrown in. Getting this close to these apex predators is totally exhilarating and not for the faint hearted, as even though you are in the safety of a metal cage, you do get the feeling that bull sharks would be a lot more interested in you if they could get past the bars!
Undeterred, we tried our luck again the next day. Lo and behold, the Great Hammerheads appeared in all their giant glory, posing for our cameras like underwater supermodels.
Slowly they came in to view – one, two, three and eventually seven GIANT Hammerheads.
Some of the Hammerheads swam right in front of your nose, others skimmed your head and most of the time they danced around in front of you like a beaming model happy for everyone to fill their camera’s memory cards.
Ninety or so minutes later we emerged with grins bigger than the sharks themselves, hoping our camera footage was as fabulous as the dive.
The next day we had another couple of great dives; a wreck called the S.S. Sapona made famous by the bootleggers during America’s prohibition era. The wreck is very shallow and the majority sits above the water but large schools of fish, lobsters and soft corals make this a very cool and relaxed dive!
Next was another shark dive, this time in the region of 50 Caribbean reef sharks that circled our boat waiting for the end of the dive. We hovered mid-water in the clear water hoping the next shark would get even closer then that last.
Once all the divers were out of the water, fingers and toes intact, the crew thanked the sharks by throwing them a bucket of fish.
Having checked out some of the local rum shacks and the resort’s bar, we jumped back on the ferry to the South island to meet our little propeller plane to whisk us to Grand Bahama.
Grand Bahama was made famous around the world a few years ago when a category five hurricane ripped through the island and tour large parts of it apart. Driving from the airport to our resort, Viva Grand Wyndham, you could still see some of the devastation.
On arriving at the dive centre located at the resort we were really disappointed to learn that the Tiger shark dives we had planned at Tiger Beach were closed due to poor visibility. Naturally the thought of diving with Tiger Sharks in poor visibility was not that appealing.
Not letting this disappointment get in the way, we managed to thoroughly enjoy our week here. We ended up doing some pristine reef dives and the Caribbean Reef shark feed was so fantastic we did it again!
We did a few tours, one to a new rum distillery which was fascinating, especially when we got to the sampling room! Rum Runners bar in Freeport became a favourite among the rum cocktail connoisseurs.
Naturally we also made use of the outdoor pool, the mile long white sand beach, the various on-site restaurants and of course the all-inclusive bar.
As well as reef, tiger and hammerhead sharks there are loads of other dives you can do in the Bahamas too. It has a huge underwater cave system second only to Mexico’s cenotes, oceanic white tips at Cat Island or even dolphins in Andros or lots of other wrecks.
To plan your diving holiday to the Bahamas please check out our similar holiday package that can be tailored to your requirements.
Discover Pemba Island—Tanzania’s Underwater Paradise!
Join Fun Divers Zanzibar, the local PADI Dive Resort, and explore the pristine waters of Pemba Island with our exclusive Dive & Stay Packages for 2025. Book now to save 15% on packages and PADI courses from February to November. Immerse yourself in an underwater adventure that reveals the best of Tanzania’s stunning marine life.
Email: info@fundiverszanzibar.com / Call: +255 773 116 436 / Web: fundiverszanzibar.com/diving-pemba-island
Why Pemba Island?
Pemba Island is renowned for its untouched underwater world and extraordinary dive sites, featuring a mix of wall and reef dives suitable for all certification levels. Home to vibrant marine life and breathtaking underwater landscapes, Pemba is a bucket-list destination for underwater explorers.
Email: info@fundiverszanzibar.com / Call: +255 773 116 436 / Web: fundiverszanzibar.com/diving-pemba-island
Why Choose Fun Divers Zanzibar?
We are the first locally owned PADI Dive Resort in Zanzibar and Pemba Island. Our professional team consists of experienced Zanzibari divers who grew up as fishermen, giving them unparalleled knowledge of the area’s reefs and marine life. Dive with our local PADI Pros for an authentic, unforgettable experience.
Email: info@fundiverszanzibar.com / Call: +255 773 116 436 / Web: fundiverszanzibar.com/diving-pemba-island
What We Offer
*Tailored adventures: Experience personalized dive plans with flexible schedules, catering to all experience levels and small groups, ensuring dedicated attention from our expert local PADI Pros*
*Top-tier equipment: Free rental of high-quality dive gear from Scubapro and Mares*
*Adaptable tanks: 12-liter aluminum cylinders compatible with both Yoke and DIN valves*
*Idyllic setting: Our brand-new dive center is located on the serene Mkunguni Beach, offering 5 cozy garden-view rooms for a peaceful retreat*
*Delicious dining: Enjoy local and international cuisine at our beachfront restaurant, with meals starting at just 10 USD*
Email: info@fundiverszanzibar.com / Call: +255 773 116 436 / Web: fundiverszanzibar.com/diving-pemba-island
Seven Reasons to Dive With Us
*Green Paradise: Pemba Island’s lush vegetation creates a unique, refreshing climate*
*Big Fish Encounters: Pemba Island‘s extensive coral formations, underwater mountains, and steep coral walls offer excellent opportunities to spot large pelagic fish, especially for experienced divers*
What’s Included in Your 2025 Dive & Stay Package
*Complimentary scuba refresher course*
*Personalized dive guidance from expert local PADI Pros*
*On-site accommodation with breakfast*
Affordable Pricing
Spaces are limited—don’t miss this chance to dive into adventure and uncover the wonders of Pemba Island!
Book Now!
📞 Call: +255 773 116 436
📧 Email: info@fundiverszanzibar.com
Transform Your Dive Experiences into Cinematic Masterpieces
NovoScuba has partnered with acclaimed underwater filmmaker Jeff Goodman to introduce the Underwater Moviemaker Course—a revolutionary program designed to equip divers with the skills to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an avid diver, or a photography enthusiast, this course offers the tools and expertise needed to create stunning underwater videos. From vibrant coral reefs to curious marine life, you’ll learn how to film, edit, and produce captivating underwater stories, all with expert guidance from a seasoned professional.
Jeff Goodman: A Legacy in Underwater Filmmaking
Jeff Goodman brings over 40 years of experience in underwater film production for television to this course. Reflecting on his career, Jeff said:
“Although technology has dramatically changed, the basics of underwater filming remain constant. This course covers crucial skills for producing great videos. Whether you’re creating professional broadcast films or high-quality hobby videos, the fundamental principles are the same.
A camera operator must master their equipment to capture those magical underwater moments effortlessly. But beyond technical know-how, underwater filmmaking is about having fun and enhancing your diving experiences. So, take your time, learn at your own pace, and enjoy this creative journey.”
About NovoScuba
Founded in 2023, NovoScuba is reshaping dive education with a comprehensive, digitally native platform. Offering cutting-edge training programs for divers at all levels, NovoScuba sets a new benchmark in the diving industry by combining innovation with accessibility.
With ISO-certified courses, a student subscription model, and multilingual support, NovoScuba ensures that dive education is inclusive and engaging. More than just a training provider, NovoScuba fosters a global community of divers committed to exploration, collaboration, and sustainability.
Join the NovoScuba Underwater Moviemaker Course Today!
Dive into the world of underwater filmmaking and start creating cinematic stories that inspire. Learn more about the course and enroll today at www.novoscuba.com/novoscuba-underwater-moviemaker-course.
EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba
NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!
The diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.
NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.
A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission
NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.
NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.
Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration
NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.
Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.
NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.
Quality Training at a Great Price
NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.
Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity
At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.
Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success
NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.
Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload
Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.
Crossover Made Easy
For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.
Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership
NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:
- Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
- Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
- Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.
Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement
NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.
Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth
At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.
Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.
Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution
Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.
For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.
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