News
There’s nothing quite like a Snorkeling holiday in the Maldives!
1200 islands of 26 different atolls make up the island paradise of the Maldives. Once prehistoric underwater volcanoes, the coral reefs and ecosystems that surround these picture perfect islands offer some of the world’s very best snorkeling locations. There’s no better destination than the pristine tropical waters of the Maldives for first time snorkelers or veteran underwater lovers. With an average of 200+ sunny days per year, the Maldives really is second to none when it comes to choosing an idyllic snorkeling escape.
What is Snorkeling in the Maldives Like?
You’ve probably seen the picture perfect images of the Maldives floating around the internet, popping up on your Instagram feed or plastered across what it seems like, pages of every other travel magazine. Thoughts of ‘there’s no way that ocean water can be real’ or something along the lines of ‘that’s definitely photo shopped’ may have crossed your mind more than once. Take our word for it from us here at Secret Paradise, as we can assure you that yes – the water is really the colour depicted by the magazines. In fact, the island waters here reflect a spectrum of blue tones that seem to change façade with every spec of light. This island paradise is just waiting for you to dive beneath the surface to discover its abundance of incredible reef life and the spectacular coloured corals.
If you’re privileged enough to delved into the underwater world of the Maldives, you can expect nothing but excellent clarity and visibility, combined with blissful year round ocean temperatures of 26 – 29 degrees Celsius. You may also be thinking that a snorkeling holiday in the Maldives is probably out of your budget … Again, let us reassure you that there has never been a more affordable time to travel to the Maldives. A snorkeling vacation is very reasonable and can begin from as little as USD$50 per night … let us show you how.
What Are the Options for Maldives Snorkeling Holidays?
Here at Secret Paradise, we offer quality and value for money snorkeling day trips and bespoke Multi-day Island hopping itineraries. On our tours, expect to explore the uncharted local islands of the Maldives, an alternative to an expensive resort style vacation.
Staying on a local island in a guesthouse allows for exploration of some of the Maldives’ very best snorkeling sites and marine life, whilst experiencing the local tradition and culture of the Maldives. Think palm trees, white sandy beaches, sun bathing and of course snorkeling, all combined with wandering locally inhabited islands, tasting Maldivian foods and seeing local traditions first hand. Enjoy being transferred from your local island via a traditional wooden dhoani boat, to stunning nearby snorkeling sites – the very same sites that resort guests snorkel at, all for a fraction of the cost! Our affordable snorkeling holidays and day trips will leave you with long lasting Maldives memories.
Is The Maldives Best For First Time or Experienced Snorkelers?
The answer to this question is both. The Maldives is spread across a thousand small islands scattered throughout the Indian Ocean, meaning it offers vast ocean environments, perfect for both beginner and experienced snorkelers and everyone in between.
The islands here in the Maldives consist of both shallow and deep-water lagoons. Beginners can simply choose to snorkel the reefs adjacent to the shoreline, in the safety of still water. Intermediate snorkelers can explore reefs a little further off shore whilst advanced snorkelers who are more daring have opportunities to try the local ‘drift-snorkeling’ method, using the aide of the ocean currents to explore the underwater terrain. As the ocean currents here in the Maldives are extremely tidal, our local guides will accompany you to ensure that you experience a safe yet ‘bucket-list’ type of underwater snorkeling experience.
What Is The Best Time of Year For Snorkeling In The Maldives?
The snorkeling season of the Maldives runs yearlong. As the Maldives is located near the equator, it is susceptible to two monsoon seasons, better known as the wet and dry seasons. From May to November (the wet season), the abundance of reef life is more varied and the visibility levels are better on the western side of each island. December to April is generally known as the ‘dry’ period, where the eastern side of each atoll is best for snorkeling.
Buy or Rent Snorkeling Equipment?
When it comes to packing for your Maldives snorkeling vacation, deciding upon whether to buy or rent your snorkeling gear is certainly a great question and one that needs to be given substantial consideration, as everyone’s snorkeling needs are different.
Firstly, decide how often you think you may snorkel on your Maldives trip. Do you think that number is worthy of purchasing your very own snorkeling gear? Let us help you make a wise travel decision.
Let’s face it, there’s nothing quite like owning your own snorkeling equipment – being assured that your own mask, fins and snorkel fit your face and body perfectly, not to mention they haven’t been worn by the many tourists before you. It’s a great little luxury if you believe you will be snorkeling frequently throughout your Maldives stay. It will also save you the hassle of searching for the snorkeling equipment that is right for you.
However, remember transporting and carrying your own snorkeling gear can often be bulky and heavy, and the last thing you want is for your equipment to be damaged in transit. Renting your snorkeling equipment is essentially easier, as your gear you won’t need to be transported from place to place. Fins especially take up a substantial amount of room in your luggage.
Another alternative is to purchase your own face mask and snorkel before your trip and hire your fins whilst on holidays. A mask and snorkel combination is small and lightweight – it takes up minimal space in your luggage. This way you will be assured that your mask will fit you comfortably, it won’t leak and it is sanitary, plus you won’t have to awkwardly lug fins around in your luggage.
Our Secret Paradise Packing Tip:
Cushion your mask between clothes to ensure the lens won’t be damaged in transit. As fins are durable, pack them on the outer edge of your luggage to prevent your other belongings from being damaged.
Discover more of The Maldives with www.secretparadise.mv
Welcome to Day 4 of Scubaverse.com’s week-long Christmas Gift Guide!
Struggling to find the perfect gift for that special scuba diver in your life? Read on for Team Scubaverse’s pick of this season’s must-have Christmas gifts.
Every day this week, we are publishing a special Christmas Gift Guide full of different gift ideas that are all ideal for divers, so you’re sure to find something that’s perfect. Take a look at today’s selection below…
Thalassas Ocean-Inspired Apparel
support@thalassas.com / www.thalassas.com / Thalassas Facebook / Thalassas Instagram / Thalassas tiktok
Dive into comfort and style with Thalassas! Featuring T-shirts, hats, leggings and more, each piece is designed to bring the tranquillity and beauty of the sea to your everyday life. Whether you’re lounging by the coast or exploring city streets, our gear has you covered.
Your purchase has a purpose! A portion of every sale supports beach cleanup initiatives and organizations.
HOLIDAY BUNDLE PRICING STARTS NOVEMBER 18th!
This holiday season, we’re offering bundle discounts on our best-selling tees, hats, and leggings! Mix and match to create your perfect set – and enjoy savings when you buy more. It’s the perfect time to stock up on ocean vibes for yourself or the diver in your life.
🌊 Holiday Bundle Discounts: Save More When You Buy More! 🌊
Don’t miss out, these deals won’t last long! FREE SHIPPING on all orders in the USA.
support@thalassas.com / www.thalassas.com / Thalassas Facebook / Thalassas Instagram / Thalassas tiktok
XDEEP Navy Signature Hoodie
info@nautilus.uk / XDEEP on nautilus.uk / www.xdeep.eu / XDEEP on Facebook
The long-awaited XDEEP Signature hoodie is finally available! Apart from being super-trendy, it’s also quality stuff: made in EU of 100% premium cotton with solid japan-made YKK metal zippers.
The main features of this stylish hoodie are the following:
– 100% cotton
– Strong metal zipper
– High-quality print
– Made in EU
Furthermore, all XDEEP hoodies and t-shirts (including fabric) are manufactured in EU using top quality 100% cotton.
The XDEEP Signature Hoodie is perfect for keeping warm and looking trendy at the same time.
To find out more about XDEEP products, visit www.xdeep.eu.
Nautilus are the distributor for XDEEP and other leading dive equipment brands in the UK. Find out more about Nautilus brands at nautilus.uk/our-brands.
info@nautilus.uk / Buy in the UK / www.xdeep.eu / XDEEP on Facebook
Oceanarium Regulator Bags & Octo Holders
sales@miflexhoses.co.uk / www.miflexhoseshop.co.uk / miflexhoseshop.co.uk/acatalog/Oceanarium.html / Miflex Hoses on Facebook
Oceanarium products offer great gifts for all lovers of life underwater, including unique designs of regulator bags, octopus holders, gear tags & cloak towels.
This range brings fun & enjoyment to your dive making your kit distinctive.
Check out the very popular regulator bags available in 6 designs, including the Oceanarium Whaleshark design, as well as the two new designs of Octopus Holders; Pygmy Seahorse & Jellyfish.
Buy a Christmas gift for a friend and make them smile… Diving is Fun!
sales@miflexhoses.co.uk / www.miflexhoseshop.co.uk / miflexhoseshop.co.uk/acatalog/Oceanarium.html / Miflex Hoses on Facebook
Fourth Element Pelagic Dive Watch
info@fourthelement.com / fourthelement.com / Fourth Element Facebook / Fourth Element Instagram / Fourth Element tiktok / Fourth Element YouTube
The Pelagic dive watch from fourth element combines British design with Swiss-craftmanship in a hand-built automatic watch which captures the essence of classic scuba-diving timepieces.
Named after the vast reaches of the open ocean, the Pelagic combines exceptional craftmanship with high-specification engineering. Designed in the UK and hand-built in Switzerland, it is rated to a depth of 500m. The Pelagic features a stunning automatic movement, seen through the sapphire crystal glass case back, powered by a Swiss made precision self-winding movement. This is a watch suitable for the most extreme environments on Planet Earth.
The Pelagic has a brushed stainless-steel case with the choice of 22mm silicone/rubber strap or stainless-steel bracelet. It features a helium escape valve, positioned at 9 o’clock ensuring that this watch is even equipped for saturation diving. The watch features a unidirectional black ceramic bezel, allowing maximum dive times to be planned, luminous hands and markers and date function.
Design detailing includes ‘fourth element’ engraved on the rotor, buckle (on the silicon/rubber strap version) or clasp (on the brushed stainless-steel version). The crown features the fourth element icon representing the four elements earth, air fire and water.
The Pelagic watch is packaged using only recycled materials (recycled PET) and FSC certified paper and card, demonstrating fourth element’s continued commitment to its OceanPositive mission.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
– Movement: 26 Jewel Swiss Sellita SW200 automatic with hacking function
– Water resistance: 500m / 1640ft
– Helium escape valve: 9 o’clock
– Crown: screw down locking
– Case width: 44mm
– Case thickness: 14mm
– Shatter and scratch resistant sapphire crystal
– Lug to lug: 52mm
– Case material: 316l brushed stainless steel
– Bezel: 120-click unidirectional with black ceramic insert
– Swiss Super-LumiNova C3 on markers and hands
– Strap: 22mm silicone/rubber strap or brushed stainless steel bracelet
– Warranty: 2 years
– Swiss made
RRP: GBP £1475 / USD $1975 / EUR €1795 / AUD $2950 / CAD $2595
info@fourthelement.com / fourthelement.com / Fourth Element Facebook / Fourth Element Instagram / Fourth Element tiktok / Fourth Element YouTube
Nautilus Seascape Mask & Clamshell Case
info@nautilus.uk / nautilus.uk / Seascape Mask on nautilus.uk / Nautilus on Facebook
The Nautilus Seascape single lens mask builds on the experience of proven design with the latest technology.
The ultra soft liquid silicone skirt and strap ensure this frameless mask gives the best fit whilst ensuring a wide 120 degree field of vision.
The antislip buckles means the strap stays where set it and the ultra clear, high vision tempered glass means virtually all light passes through to your eyes.
A substantial nose pocket means that equalising is a joy and that, combined with comfort, makes this the ideal mask for most divers.
To find your nearest Nautilus dealer, click here.
info@nautilus.uk / nautilus.uk / Seascape Mask on nautilus.uk / Nautilus on Facebook
Welcome to Day 3 of Scubaverse.com’s week-long Christmas Gift Guide!
Struggling to find the perfect gift for that special scuba diver in your life? Read on for Team Scubaverse’s pick of this season’s must-have Christmas gifts.
Every day this week, we are publishing a special Christmas Gift Guide full of different gift ideas that are all ideal for divers, so you’re sure to find something that’s perfect. Take a look at today’s selection below…
Beuchat Voyager XL Travel Bag
info@suuntodm.co.uk / www.beuchat-diving.com/gb / Beuchat Facebook
The Beuchat Voyager XL travel bag is ideal for diving expeditions or other trips, with practical trolleys and two spacious compartments.
Large XL travel bag designed to meet all your travel needs, whether it’s a diving expedition, a scuba-hunting trip or any other adventure. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
Here are the characteristics of the VOYAGER XL-BEUCHAT bag:
Big storage capacity
- Volume: 130 L
- Dimensions: 75x47x39 cm
- Weight: 3,6 KG
- Thanks to its large capacity, you can transport your equipment and personal items efficiently and comfortably when you’re on the go
- Beuchat Shell Case: semi-rigid, thermoformed EVA protective shell that combines lightness with extra protection for the contents of the bag during transport, handling and rolling.
- Padlock eyelets
- Molle system for attaching external accessories
- Inside mesh side pocket
- Two separate large interior compartments
- Backpack straps
- Telescopic pole
- Made in Ripstop, 600 denier and 1000 denier nylon/PVC: lightweight, highly resistant fabric
- Zipper protection for central compartment: shifted inwards to prevent rubbing on the ground
- Replaceable trolley wheel
info@suuntodm.co.uk / www.beuchat-diving.com/gb / Beuchat Facebook
AP Diving BCDs
sales@apdiving.com / www.apdiving.com / AP Diving Facebook / AP Diving Instagram / AP Diving TV
Here’s some more inspiration & top-end gift ideas for the diver in your life…
Treat them (or yourself!) to a brand spanking new BCD from the AP range? Maybe a new Commando, Tekwing or Explorer? Or one from our lightweight Travel range – the Travelwing or Escape?
AP BCDs have been the gold standard for UK and northern European divers for over 40 years. They are designed by divers for divers, built to last and built for adventure and honed to perfection over the years by listening to what divers actually want.
From now until Xmas you can grab a 10% discount on any AP BCD. (see below for details)
Check out the AP BCD pages online for the full story:
https://www.apdiving.com/shop/en/bcd-open-circuit/bcds.html
GRAB A SEASONAL DISCOUNT on any AP BCD, AP Ratchet Reel or AP Surface Marker Buoy!
Enter the Voucher Code AP-XMAS-24 at the checkout online to get 10% off.
Offer ends 19th Dec. Last postage dates vary with the carrier and destination. If in doubt, please check with the AP office 01326 561040 for up-to-date delivery information.
sales@apdiving.com / www.apdiving.com / AP Diving Facebook / AP Diving Instagram / AP Diving TV
SlipIns Swimsuits
Team@slipins.com / www.slipins.com / SlipIns Facebook / SlipIns Instagram / SlipIns Pinterest
The SlipIns Swimsuit is the perfect surf suit. Even in the heaviest surf or wipeout, the suit stays put. It is fabulous for all water shorts like snorkelling, paddling, kayaking, swimming or just lounging.
This tight-fitting, tailored lycra swimsuit offers 4-way stretch for maximum comfort. stretchy, breathable, fast-drying fabric with the worlds best sun protection is the most comfortable suit you will ever put on.
SlipIns are:
*Ultimate 50+ UPF sun protection
*Blocks 98% of UVA and UVB rays
*Quick dry, breathable lycra fabric
*Flattering fit
Save 10% on your order if you mention you saw this ad in Scubaverse in your order note!
SAVE YOUR SKIN…WEAR OUR SKINS
Team@slipins.com / www.slipins.com / SlipIns Facebook / SlipIns Instagram / SlipIns Pinterest
Icelandic Wool Gloves, Socks & Blankets
by KUBI
sales@KUBIstore.com / www.KUBIstore.com / Varma on KUBIstore / KUBI on Facebook / KUBI on Instagram
KUBI have worked closely with a quality manufacturer in Iceland to bring you a range of products made from very hardy & warm wool produced in the country.
We offer a range of Socks & Blankets, as well as our very popular Thermal Gloves from Iceland.
Socks are available in Icelandic Wool & Angora Wool in a mixture of colours & sizes to suit your requirements for winter.
We also stock the luxurious Icelandic brushed wool blankets, ideal for wrapping yourself up and snuggling in on a chilly evening.
Not forgetting as well, our outstanding Icelandic Wool KUBI Gloves, the most popular in our range
Ideal gifts for everyone this Christmas with – The Warmth of Iceland!
sales@KUBIstore.com / www.KUBIstore.com / Varma on KUBIstore / KUBI on Facebook / KUBI on Instagram
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