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Renowned marine biologist Steven Weinberg joins Carpe Diem Maldives for three weeks of marine expeditions
Carpe Diem Maldives has extended its Dive with a Purpose trips to include coral reef and marine biology research with internationally acclaimed marine biologist Steven Weinberg.
As part of the ongoing Dive with a Purpose events and International Year of the Reef 2018 celebration with Carpe Diem, avid divers can take to the clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean while on board the cruises for two weeks in July, followed by a week at Carpe Diem Beach Resort and Spa in August.
Benefitting from over 40 years of marine biology knowledge with Steven Weinberg, divers can learn or improve their skills and understanding in one of the world’s most beautiful tropical countries and award-winning dive destination. Steven is multilingual (Dutch, French, English, German), a much appreciated guest speaker and has inspired countless divers over the years as they discover marine life and underwater photography.
Diving since the age of eight and passionate about photography since the age of 11, Steven became a qualified marine biologist in 1979. Since then, he has taught reef ecology at the University of Puerto Rico, and for almost 30 years he taught biology at the European School of Luxembourg. In addition to over 30 scientific publications, he is the author of more than 550 magazine articles on the underwater world.
With fluent French language skills, since 1992 Steven has become France’s most celebrated marine author with several illustrated books, including a very popular series of underwater field guides (“Mediterranean”, “Atlantic”, “Red Sea & Indian Ocean”, “Caribbean” and “Tropical Pacific”), “Ocean Life”, “Ecologically Yours!” He also co-authored the astonishing “History of Underwater Imaging – from 1856 to the present” and “Ar(t)cachon – Jewels of the Bay”.
In July this year, Steven Weinberg returns to the Maldives for the first time in over 25 years.
“I am thrilled to be returning after such a long time away, and especially with opportunity to explore so many different reefs together with Carpe Diem Maldives. The explorations will serve as research for my updated version of the ‘Red Sea & Indian Ocean’ field guide, to be released next year. In the process, I am looking forward to sharing my marine knowledge and underwater photography advice with their enthusiastic divers as we explore the dives together,” he explains.
On each Dive with A Purpose week with Steven Weinerg from July 15-22 and July 22-29, up to 20 recreational divers can join the Carpe Diem Cruises marine expeditions. Priced from USD 1,863 per person (inclusive of 12 percent GST) for the week, the expeditions include:
- Seven nights aboard the assigned Carpe Diem Maldives vessel
- Three meals daily, plus between-dive snacks
- Three to four dives daily (except for on day of arrival and day before departure)
- Use of tanks, weights and belts
- Drinking water, tea and coffee
- Airport transfers on the days of embarkation/disembarkation
- Evening workshops on marine ecology, coral reef, marine life and photography
- On-board marine biologist
Agnes van Linden, the Assistant Managing Director at Carpe Diem Maldives, says: “Our previous Dive with a Purpose trips have been popular with our guests and we are constantly seeking new and informative ways to bring more variety as well as benefit research. With Steven on our cruises and at the new resort in August, guests can dive in crystal blue water and discover the rich biodiversity of the Maldives while learning, documenting and exploring coral reefs. The majority of our guest divers have underwater camera equipment with them to document their trips, so I am sure there will be lots of questions between dives and around the lunch and dinner tables about camera technique and capturing marine life through the lens.”
In January this year, Carpe Diem Maldives began a year-long celebration of IYO 2018, inviting all divers to share their underwater images on social media using #maldivesreefawareness, #iyor2018 #carpediemmaldives. This provides research scientist easy access to a live feed of images on regularly visited dive sites.
Towards the end of 2018, campaign images posted throughout the year can be submitted to a panel of professional photographers, conservationists and IYOR officials, with a chance of winning a four-night stay in 2019 at the new Carpe Diem Beach Resort and Spa.
Carpe Diem’s Dive with a Purpose trips are aimed at anyone with a passion for the ocean; enthusiasm is valued over experience and you don’t need a scientific background.
Whether divers are looking to further their studies or just looking for a meaningful conservation holiday, Dive with a Purpose trips offer something different, and past guests refer to it as an experience they’ll carry with them for the rest of their lives.
Since 2008, the award-winning hospitality group Carpe Diem Maldives has been operating luxury dive and surf liveaboard cruises, sharing the beauty of the Maldivian waters with adventurous travellers. Carpe Diem is the only liveaboard operator in the Maldives to offer diving adventures with a team of all-Maldivian dive masters.
With the expansion into resorts, Carpe Diem Maldives becomes the only hospitality brand in the country to offer year-round liveaboard cruises that can be combined with a resort stay.
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Naomi Cavaday hosts exclusive tennis camp at JA Manafaru
Tennis enthusiasts of all levels are encouraged to participate in an engaging five-day tennis camp hosted by former British tennis star Naomi Cavaday, as part of JA Manafaru’s ‘Naturally Better Festive Programme.’
From January 1st to 5th, 2025, Naomi Cavaday will provide expert coaching to both adults and children at the resort’s tennis court from 4 to 5 pm daily. With a career that includes competing at Wimbledon and in all four Grand Slam tournaments, Naomi offers players a unique opportunity to receive personalised guidance from a former WTA professional. Whether participants are beginners or advanced players aiming to refine their skills, her competitive spirit and passion for coaching promise to elevate their performance.
The tennis camp aims to deliver an inspiring and dynamic experience for all participants, offering a chance to learn from Naomi’s extensive expertise. Guests will benefit from high-quality coaching and gain valuable insights into the sport, all within a supportive and enjoyable environment.
Jason Kruse, General Manager at JA Manafaru, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Naomi Cavaday to host our tennis camp as part of our ‘Naturally Better Festive Programme.’ Her vast experience and genuine love for the game will undoubtedly inspire guests of all ages, helping them improve their skills and enjoy a memorable tennis experience during their stay.”
Naomi Cavaday, a former British tennis player, turned professional in 2006 and competed in WTA events and all four Grand Slam tournaments. She represented Great Britain as the number one player in the Billie Jean King Cup and has achieved significant victories, including matches against top players such as Venus Williams and Martina Hingis. Beyond her playing career, Naomi is a respected commentator for Sky, Eurosport, and the BBC, where she shares her expertise with global audiences. As a coach, she is dedicated to mentoring and developing new generations of tennis players.
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Robert Green hosts football camp at JA Manafaru
This festive season, the idyllic island of JA Manafaru has announced a unique experience for young football enthusiasts, as former England goalkeeper Robert Paul Green hosts an exciting football camp for children. The camp, which commenced on Friday, will be held daily from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM at the JA Manafaru Football Pitch, running until 30th December 2024.
Robert Green, widely regarded as one of England’s top goalkeepers during his career, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the pitch. Known for his impressive 20-year footballing journey, Green played at the highest levels, including the Premier League, Football League, and for the England national team. This exclusive opportunity to learn from a football legend will inspire children to develop their skills and confidence both on and off the field.
Career highlights of Robert Green:
- Premier League & Football League Career: Robert Green enjoyed a distinguished career as a goalkeeper in both the Premier League and Football League. He made over 500 professional appearances for clubs including West Ham United, Norwich City, and Queens Park Rangers.
- England National Team: Green earned 12 caps for the England senior national team, representing his country in major international tournaments, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
- West Ham United: A standout in Green’s career was his time at West Ham United (2006–2009), where he established himself as one of the Premier League’s top goalkeepers, earning the club’s Player of the Season award in 2007-08.
- Notable Performances: Green’s performances in key matches, including vital saves in high-stakes Premier League encounters, were pivotal to his clubs’ successes. His time with QPR and Norwich City further solidified his reputation as a reliable and skilled goalkeeper.
As part of the festive celebrations at JA Manafaru, this football camp is designed for children of all skill levels, from beginners to more experienced players. The sessions will focus on technique, teamwork, and developing a love for the beautiful game, all while ensuring a fun, safe, and supportive environment.
Each participant in the camp will receive a full set of jersey uniforms as a token, allowing the young players to feel like true athletes while they engage in this unforgettable football experience.
“We’re delighted to welcome Robert Green to JA Manafaru this holiday season. His wealth of experience and dedication to the sport will undoubtedly inspire young players from both near and far. The football camp is a fantastic addition to our “A Naturally Better Festive” programme, and it aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing unique, enriching experiences for families. We look forward to seeing the joy and growth that these sessions will bring to the children, as well as how sports programmes like this will bring the entire resort together, creating a sense of community like a village of good friends,” says Jason Kruse, General Manager.
“As part of our vision to provide guests with both active and wellness-focused activities, we are thrilled to offer this football camp under Robert Green’s expert guidance. Our guests, particularly children, will benefit immensely from the values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship that Robert brings to the pitch. It’s an exciting way for families to celebrate the festive season while fostering a love for the game in a beautiful, tropical setting,” remarks Rita Gupta, Director of Spa & Recreation.
The camp is exclusively available to children staying at the resort, ensuring a special and enriching opportunity for young guests to participate in this exciting initiative.
JA Manafaru, renowned for its exceptional service and award-winning CoolZone, which has earned the Worldwide Kids accreditation for two consecutive years, offers the ideal environment for young children and teens to enjoy a fun and safe experience.
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Dive into conservation: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi introduces snorkelling with a purpose
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has introduced an exciting new activity for ocean enthusiasts: Conservation Snorkelling. Led by the resort’s resident marine biologist, Mohamed Shah, this immersive experience allows participants to contribute to marine conservation efforts while exploring the vibrant underwater ecosystem of the Maldives. Combining education, exploration, and action, the initiative offers an enriching opportunity for visitors of all ages.
Participants engage in collecting critical data on coral health and fish populations using underwater fish guides, coral health charts, and writing slates, while learning to identify various fish species. They assess reef conditions and contribute to the protection of the local marine environment. The findings are then discussed with Mohamed Shah, providing deeper insights into the marine life of the Iru Fushi lagoon and house reef.
This activity is a key component of Sun Siyam Cares, the resort’s initiative focused on environmental protection and community support. Families, young couples, and other guests can participate in global conservation efforts through the Coral Watch citizen science project. The activity is open to strong swimmers aged eight and above who feel comfortable snorkelling.
“At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, we strive to protect the stunning natural environment around us,” said Abdullah Atham, Resort Manager. “Through activities like Conservation Snorkelling, we encourage guests to explore and actively contribute to ocean conservation.”
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