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Diving with… Euro-Divers Amari Havodda, Maldives

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In this ongoing series, we speak with the people who run dive centres, resorts and liveaboards from around the world about their businesses and the diving they have to offer…


What is your name?

I’m Nico, the Dive Center and Watersports Manager.

What is the name of your business?

Euro-Divers has a 40 year experience in the diving industry. We have 12 dive centers in the Maldives and I am in charge of Euro-Divers Amari Havodda, located in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, one of the most southerly atolls of the country.

What is your role within the business?

My job is to make sure we provide a professional and safe service to our guests. We are here to make their day!

How long has the business operated for?

Euro-Divers Amari Havodda opened in February 2016, so we have been operating for nearly 18 months.

How long have you dived for and what qualification are you?

One day I woke up and decided to become a scuba diving instructor. A month after, in September 2010, I started to dive for the first time. Since that I haven’t stopped. I became a PADI Divemaster in November 2010, an Instructor in March 2011 and a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer in April 2011. I am also a Divemaster from the French Diving Federation (F.F.E.S.S.M.) since August 2013.

I have worked in Koh Tao (Gulf of Thailand), Crete ( Mediterranean Sea), Koh Phi-Phi (Andaman Sea), Bocas del Toro (Caribbean Sea), Playas del Coco (Pacific Ocean), Roatan (Caribbean Sea), Kaafu and Gaafu Dhaalu atolls (Indian Ocean).

I also dived in gravel pits in France and Germany, Raja Ampat, Koh Lipe, Hendaye, Caye Caulker, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel… but I have still so many places to discover.

What is your favourite type of diving?

Any kind of diving in a Tropical area. I hate wearing  a wetsuit 😉

I have to confess I love Night dives. In my Utopic world I wish day dives would be changed to night dives. Imagine that, doing 2 to 4 night dives “a day”, and sometimes, something unusual, sometimes special…a day dive.

If you could tell people one thing about your business (or maybe more!) to make them want to visit you what would it be?

Euro-Divers team is made up by experienced and friendly professional scuba diving and watersports instructors dedicated to their passion. On top of that, the diving conditions here are unique and not yet well known by the diving community. We are always the only dive boat on sites.

What is your favourite dive in your location and why?

I have many actually. My favourite channel dives are Madaveli, Footi Kandu and Shortcut.

The first one is near by the Airport Island. It offers a rich marine life, such as barracudas observing you the whole dive, huge Napoleon wrasses and juveniles too, many fusiliers, grey reef and white tips reef sharks, Rainbow runners, jacks…and manta rays passing by.

The second and third ones have that unique topography that all our divers like so much. The reef starts from 2-3 meters, a gradual slope up to 18-20 meters. Then a flat sandy bottom between 10 to 30 meters wide, and after that, another deep reef parallel to that sandy bottom rising up to 14 meters, with a dune-like form dropping to the deep water of the open ocean on the other side. And I haven’t even mentioned the stunning hard corals everywhere and fish life. Magic!!!

My favourite inland dive sites are Kahabu Giri and Kuda Hafsa Thila.

The first one is a shallow reef with beautiful hard and soft corals. We see lots of cute batfish that will follow you the whole dive, a school of curious bigeye jacks, different kind of fusiliers, many reef groupers and snappers, hawksbill turtle, white tip reef shark and sometimes spotted eagle rays too.

The second is a small site exposed to current. The reef is the habitat of grey and white tip reef sharks, batfish and a resident ribbon eel.

What types of diving are available in your location?

Here on the West of Gaafu Dhaalu atoll, we have channel dives, thilas (underwater mountains) and Giri (shallow reefs).

What do you find most rewarding about your current role?

The smile of our guests and their happiness after doing their activity.

What is your favourite underwater creature?

Mermaid 😉

Seriously, so many. I love Sea Slugs, Flatworms, gastropods in general and crustaceans. I am fascinated by so much beauty in such a small body.

Are there any exciting changes / developments coming up in the near future?

Not as far as I am aware!

Is your center involved in any environmental work?

We do regularly reef cleaning involving staff and guests. We talk to the guests every day about what a snorkeler and a scuba diver should and should not do. It’s all about responsive behaviour (Do not touch, Do not feed the fish, Do not collect or buy corals…). We use Green Fins posters as reference material.

How do you see the SCUBA / Freediving / snorkeling industry overall?

They are three different industries. It’s hard to combine them. Diving and snorkeling are already very well present in tropical areas, you can always find a dive center to go diving or snorkeling with.

Freediving is according to me the one with the higher potential of development compared to the other two. Teaching freediving is a growing market. In France for example, they teach all kind of underwater activities through the Ministry of Sports like scuba diving and freediving among others. It’s like being part of a football team; you go to the swimming pool every Wednesday to train.

What would you say to our visitors to promote the diving you have to offer?

If you want to experience a unique diving due to the topography, corals and condition, Euro-Divers is the dive center to dive with in Gaafu Dhaalu atoll, no doubt about it.

On top of being a leader in the diving industry in the Maldives for the past 40 years, we offer a flexible schedule, small groups and always choose dive sites according to our guests wishes. You cannot be disappointed.

Where can our visitors find out more about your business?

Please see our website for more information and also keep up to date on our Facebook page.

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Jeff Goodman Launches Underwater Moviemaker Course with NovoScuba

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underwater videography course

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/courses/underwater-moviemaker.

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.

underwater videography course

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.

underwater videography course

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.

underwater videography course

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.

underwater videography course

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.

underwater videography course

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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Gear News

Get 10% off a Seacraft GO! Scooter if you order before Christmas

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seacraft GO

seascape maskNautilus UK are offering a 10% discount on the Seacraft GO! scooter until Christmas (or until 5 units are sold) due to a slightly better exchange rate. Nautilus UK say this is a not to be missed offer on a very low margin product and unlikely to be repeated.

The Seacraft GO! is a revolution in the segment of compact underwater scooters. Weighing only 9,7 kg, the GO! offers exceptional performance and power.

seacraft go

Apart from that, the new Seacraft model is based on modular Li-Ion batteries with a capacity of 582 Wh which may be split up into several segments, approved to be transported in hand luggage aboard a passenger plane! This is, why we call them “air travel-friendly” batteries, since they offer you even more flexibility than every other Seacraft scooter before.

seacraft go

This makes the GO! the perfect companion for recreational divers, freedivers and technical divers looking for a reliable backup unit.

seacraft go

You can find out more about the Seacraft GO! scooter on Nautilus UK’s website here.

Call Nautilus UK: +44 (0) 333 444 0104

Email Nautilus UK: info@nautilus.uk

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