News
The Women Divers Hall of Fame to Welcome Seven New Members in 2024
Dedicated to recognizing and honoring the contributions of women divers, the Women Divers Hall of Fame™ (WDHOF) is an international non-profit professional honor society whose member contributions span a wide variety of fields including: The Arts, Science, Medicine, Sports, Exploration, Underwater Archaeology, Media, Service, Dive Training and Education, Safety, Business, Marine Environment and Conservation, Free Diving, Commercial Diving, and Military Diving.
Ronnie Damico — California, USA
Instructor, Scientific Diving Officer, NAUI Board Member
Ronnie Damico is a female pioneer in the field of diving safety and leadership. In 1979, she became Diving Officer for the USC Catalina Marine Science Center (CMSC). She was also a Chamber Treatment – Team Supervisor. In 1985, she became the Diving Safety Officer for California State University, Long Beach, plus DSO for the Ocean Studies Institute, overseeing scientific diving for six campuses. As a frequent instructor-trainer, she often was the sole female on staff. An acknowledged leader, she served as NAUI Branch Manager, 1987-1989. She was a Program or Conference Director for international conferences and early consumer dive shows in southern California. She was elected to several boards including NAUI’s Board of Directors, 1990-1993.
Elizabeth Kintzing — Maine, USA
Educator, Scientific Diver, Ocean Advocate
A scuba class changed Liz’s life plans — she couldn’t get enough of all things under water. Maintaining an interest in diving medicine during graduate work at UNH, Liz taught scuba as a NAUI instructor and conducted research at the UNH hyperbaric chamber. Liz is a facilitator of diving and underwater science. She has trained over a thousand students in scuba and scientific diving. Liz has mentored many students, encouraging them to become diving scientists, technicians in a science diving lab, as well as diving instructors and DSOs for academic institutions around the world. Saturation in Aquarius, diving under the ice in Antarctica, and using CCRs to conduct research in 100m coral reef environments are highlights of her 35+ year career.
Laura Marroni — Italy
Diving Safety Advocate, Tech and Cave Diver, NGO Manager
Laura Marroni, a Bachelor of Economics and MBA graduate, is an extraordinary individual fueled by a deep passion for the underwater realm. Having grown up by the sea, she embarked on her diving journey at the tender age of eight. Today, she stands as a highly skilled technical and cave diver, and a fervent advocate for advancements in the safety of professional and recreational diving. As the Executive Vice President at DAN Europe, Laura takes the lead in various research projects focused on understanding the physiological effects of diving on the human body. Her ultimate aim is to enhance safety measures in all types of diving and make diving an increasingly accessible and sustainable activity.
Mikki McComb-Kobza, Ph.D. — Colorado, USA
Explorer, Conservationist, Educator
Mikki transformed her childhood fascination with sharks into a lifelong career of shark conservation and advocacy. The environmental changes witnessed as a diver over 40 years became inspiration to train new divers as lifelong ocean supporters. Her doctoral work authoritatively described how the hammerhead shark visualizes its world. Today, Mikki uses innovative techniques and citizen science to increase understanding of white shark behavior and distribution. She has promoted hope and action to over 500,000 people as Executive Director of Ocean First Institute. Mikki has spread her message through National Geographic, Shark Week, NPR, and CBC National Radio Canada. She serves as adjunct faculty at CU Boulder, President of the American Elasmobranch Society, and National Fellow of the Explorers Club.
Robyn McGinn — Virginia, USA
Navy Diving Program Manager, Diving Life Support Systems Technical Expert, Navy Deep Sea Diver
Massachusetts Maritime Academy Summa Cum Laude graduate Robyn McGinn graduated Navy Dive School as “CLASS HONOR WOMAN,” the first government civilian employee woman to receive that designation. Robyn is a recognized technical expert and respected professional in Navy diving, serving as the Diving Life Support Systems Program Manager for the Navy’s Supervisor of Salvage and Diving. She supports DoD/GOVT diving programs and foreign militaries, facilitating outfitting of diving equipment and training internationally. She is responsible for ensuring military diving equipment is built, evaluated, tested, and maintained in accordance with the Navy’s technical standards, so that divers have safe and effective equipment to perform their missions. She also manages the Navy’s Diving Depot and ISEA, providing services to Navy Diving worldwide.
Penelope Powell (1904-1965) — UK, posthumous
First Woman Cave Diver, Co-Author of First Cave Diving Book
Penelope (“Mossy”) Powell was a pioneering British cave diver. She was Diver No. 2 for the first successful cave
dive using breathing equipment in Britain, at Wookey Hole Caves in the Mendip Hills, Somerset, on 14 July 1935. She co-wrote the first cave diving book, The Log of the Wookey Hole Exploration Expedition: 1935.
Samantha Whitcraft — Florida, USA
Conservation Biologist, Oceans Advocate, Environmentalist
Samantha Whitcraft is a marine conservation biologist, environmentalist, and oceans advocate. Logging 5000+ research and educational dives around the world, she created the first classroom-at-sea in Gardens of the Queen National Park, Cuba. After earning her Bachelor’s in natural science at Harvard and her Master of Marine Affairs & Policy at University of Miami, she worked to legally protect endangered marine species, especially sharks, whales, and manatees. She’s studied coral reef MPAs’ connectivity and investigated the shark fin trade in China all while promoting sustainable ecotourism over her 30+ year career. Whitcraft initiated and developed Aggressor Adventures® award-winning sustainability program, Green the Fleet®, and is Executive Director of the Sea of Change Foundation, providing leadership in community-based conservation, globally.
WDHOF, a 501(c)(3) corporation, was founded in 2000. WDHOF’s mission is to recognize the contributions of outstanding women divers and to offer financial assistance and mentorship to individuals interested in pursuing diving careers. As such, WDHOF offers numerous scholarships and training grants each year. For more information about or to contribute to the WDHOF scholarship program, log on to www.wdhof.org/scholarships.
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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