Destination News

Yap’s World War 11 Historical Sites Get a Facelift

As part of its commitment to historical preservation and cultural exchange, the Yap Visitors Bureau (YVB) recently collaborated with the Japanese Navy and US Navy SeaBees on a significant cleanup and restoration initiative at key World War II heritage sites. This initiative started back in July when the Seabees based in Yap gave the sites around Colonia and at the old airstrip a major facelift. 

Buddy Dive Academy Presents the 2025 PADI Instructor Development Course Dates

The Buddy Dive Academy proudly presents the 2025 PADI Instructor Development Course Dates.

  • February 9 - 21
  • April 13 - 25
  • June 8 - 20
  • August 3 - 15
  • October 5 - 17
  • November 30 – December 12

Has it always been your dream to dive every day and to share your passion with others while working in the most beautiful places in the world? Take the step and become a PADI Dive Instructor on Bonaire!

Explorer Ventures' Galapagos Vessels Gain PADI Eco Center Designation

The addition of the PADI Eco Center designation to its Green Fins certification for its fleet vessels, M/V Humboldt Explorer and M/V Tiburon Explorer, operating in the iconic Galapagos Islands, marks a proud achievement. 

These vessels now stand as the pioneering Eco Centers and Liveaboards in Galapagos, showcasing a dedication to environmental stewardship. 

Buddy Dive Resort Presents: "Buddy Dive Thru the Lens"

This year, Buddy Dive Thru the Lens will be hosted again at Buddy Dive Resort, this time from August 24th - 31st. Buddy Dive Thru the Lens is an underwater photography week with many options for (new) underwater photographers to develop their skills! 

Dive enthusiasts and photography aficionados are invited to immerse themselves in the mesmerizing beauty of Bonaire's underwater world at the much anticipated "Buddy Dive Thru the Lens" photography event, hosted by Buddy Dive Resort. 

Marsa Shagra house reef (archive photo)

Egyptian Dive Operators Affected by Regional Unrest

Despite the conflicts not being close to the main Red Sea dive resorts, many operators we spoke to at the Boot show in Germany reported an increase in cancellations and a noticeable slowdown in bookings.

One operator based in Marsa Alam wrote that after the Boot show they had attended additional exhibitions and met many people who were enthusiastic about diving in Egypt. However, a handful expressed reluctance, choosing not to visit this year due to the political climate.

Master Liveaboards Announces New Boat for Indonesia

Indo Master is a traditional phinisi style liveaboard, built from teak and ironwood. Launched in 2022, she is the very definition of a modern Indonesian phinisi.

Indo Master offers 9 cabins for a maximum of 18 guests. Below decks there are 4 traditional Classic cabins, with a choice of twin or double layouts. There is also a larger Premium cabin with two double beds for those who prefer to spread out on their trips.

Fishing Derby Added to 2024 Yap Day Celebrations

Traditional stick dance during Yap Day celebrations

Yap Day is one of the premier and largest cultural events in all of Micronesia that showcases everything Yapese, with the village of Makiy in Gagil municipality hosting this year’s festivities.

On February 29th the festivities will kick off with the traditional conch shell blowing and presentation of colours and stone money. During the course of that day there will be women’s sitting dances by the Maap and Rull municipalities and a men’s standing dance by the Rumung municipality.