News
Ultimate Diving Photography Workshops with Saeed Rashid
This September saw Saeed’s inaugural photo workshop with Ultimate Diving. This took place on the wonderful island of Sulawesi at the Tasik Ria Resort with Tasik Divers on-site. The resort was chosen for this workshop because of the excellent mix of dive sites, from the stunning walls and pristine coral of Bunaken National Park to the local critter rich reefs just a short boat ride from the jetty. This ensured a diverse set of photo opportunities for the group.
Excerpt from Saeed’s blog about the trip:
After readying all of our kit, the first day consisted of relaxing around the pool and getting to know each other and the level of everybody’s photography skills, enabling me to understand where I could help over the duration of the workshop. Our first day got off to a real bang with a visit to Bunaken National Park. The walls here are famous for their sponges, fans and fish life and they didn’t disappoint – the first thing you notice as you enter the water is the abundance of fish life. Thick shoals of red-toothed triggerfish and pyramid butterflyfish cover the walls with large jacks hunting smaller bait fish among them.
The other thing Bunaken is famous for are the turtles. Along the reef wall we encountered massive sleeping green turtles and smaller hawksbills often eating the soft coral and sponges. The last time I visited these reefs was six years ago and I remember being wowed by the number of turtles we saw, and things haven’t changed – if anything, there are far more turtles here than ever before. In fact, I would say there are more turtles here than anywhere else I have ever seen. At times there were so many it made it possible for everybody to have their own turtle to practice their photography on and many would act like super models, seeming to know exactly how to pose for the camera.
We made several trips to Bunaken throughout the workshop but without a doubt our favourite locations were those less dived sites more local to the resort. Unlike Bunaken we were almost guaranteed to have these sites to ourselves. The fish life may not have been as jaw dropping when you first entered the water, but the weird and wonderful critter life was as good as I have seen anywhere else, allowing everyone to practice their macro photo skills.
Komodo National Park is one of the most diverse and rich marine environments in the world, home to over 1,000 species of fish and 250 types of reef-building coral. The coral reefs in the north of the park are rich with colourful combinations of hard and soft corals. Be delighted by the ever-present schools of Anthias, Wrasses, majestic angelfish, and larger predators – reef sharks and giant trevally.
Our guides were often able to locate each guest a different photo subject, allowing everyone to take their time and not feel rushed when shooting. That’s got to be the worst thing ever for a photographer, hasn’t it? Nudibranch were a real highlight for the group, from the super small and cute Shaun the Sheep to the bright pink Dorids that seemed all too often to have eggs on-board. On the house reef we were also fortunate to find a pair of mated ornate ghost pipefish with the male already caring for the eggs. These were revisited many times by the group during the trip.
The morning schedule consisted of two boat dives, giving me the chance to look over the groups images on the boat, and with second dives often on the same reef, crucial advice could be given between dives and put into practice straight away. Most evenings were spent going over editing techniques, talking about camera settings or flash positions, while taking part in image reviews as a group. This naturally coincided with an ice-cold beer and the backdrop of the amazing sunsets from our outdoor classroom at the jetty bar.
Ultimate Diving’s next trip takes place in the beautiful Komodo National Park!
The Komodo National Park is one of the most diverse and rich marine environments in the world, home to over 1,000 species of fish and 250 types of coral. The reefs in the north of the park are rich with colourful combinations of hard and soft corals. Be delighted by the ever-present schools of anthias, wrasses, majestic angelfish, and larger predators such as reef sharks and giant trevally.
Boarding the Cheng Ho on the 20th June 2019 for 10 nights on the Komodo National Park route, this price includes accommodation in shared cabin, full board basis, daily diving, airport transfers, endless sessions with Saeed Rashid and 1 night in Bali.
ITINERARY
18/06/2019 Fly to Bali via Hong Kong with 1 night in Bali
Fly from Bali to Labuan Bajo. Transfer (approx. 1 hour) to the Cheng Ho boat and check-in for your 10 night adventure. Afternoon at leisure and check-in at the dive centre, prepare camera equipment for diving the following day.
21/6 – 29/6/19 9 days diving aboard the Cheng Ho with daily diving activities. Enjoy the world famous sites of Komodo National Park and dive with manta rays, turtles and pristine coral reefs, trekking in search of the ancient Komodo Dragon, visit the waterfalls, witness an active volcano, local markets and much more.
30/6/19 Transfer to the airport. Fly from Labuan Bajo to Bali. Fly from Bali to Heathrow.
PRICE £3095 per person. Deposit required: £600 + flights.
INCLUSIONS
10 nights in shared cabin aboard the Cheng Ho, daily diving with tanks and weights, full board, airport transfers, harbour and anchor fee, and 1 night in Bali.
EXCLUSIONS
Flights approx. £900, airport departure tax, tips, land tour entrance fees and Komodo entrance fee: 25 USD/person/night.
To enquire or book, please give the Ultimate Diving Team a call on 0208 655 6458 or email Marcelina@ultimatediving.co.uk to answer any questions and give you the lowdown on the destination and diving.
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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