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Phil Hopkins
Commissioning Editor
@philhopkinsuk
P.ublished 28th March 2025
travel

Having a PADI in July!

This summer, Nova Maldives, the soulful island resort, is partnering with the world’s leading scuba diving organisation, PADI, to host a unique ocean adventure week from 13 to 20 July, in celebration of PADI’s 11th Women’s Dive Day on 19 July 2025.

Nova & PADI’s Transformative Ocean Adventure Week will be co-hosted by PADI AmbassaDiver, conservation advocate, and broadcaster India Black, and PADI Regional Manager for the Maldives Matt Wenger, inviting ocean lovers from around the world to immerse themselves in diving, conservation, and community, while discovering the transformative power of the ocean and promoting sustainable diving practices.

Taking place at Nova’s South Ari Atoll location, this event will feature guided dives, marine conservation workshops, and sustainability-focused training.
Guests will have the rare opportunity to explore the protected pristine waters of the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), witness diverse marine life, including manta rays and whale sharks, and deepen their understanding of ethical diving and ocean stewardship.

PADI Regional Manager Matt Wenger, who brings nearly three decades of experience as a PADI Pro, is now in his tenth year overseeing PADI’s presence in the Maldives. Matt has played a key role in expanding PADI’s reach across both luxury resorts and emerging local island destinations.

Advocate for ocean conservation, India Black, has dedicated her career to inspiring people to adventure further, care for themselves, and protect the planet.

"The ocean has given me so much — peace, perspective, and connection — and I’m so passionate about helping others find that too," said India Black.

"This week is about more than just diving; it’s about learning how we can all play a part in protecting the marine world while building unforgettable memories in it."

The event offers guests a curated programme of conservation-focused activities, dives, and educational workshops designed to deepen their understanding of ocean protection.

With India and Matt’s expertise, throughout the week, guest experiences include:

• Manta Quest & whate Snorkelling
• Turtle Quest.
• Ocean Clean-Up Dive.

The Nova x PADI Transformative Ocean Adventure Week from 13 to 20 July 2025 is available to book exclusively through Nova.

Full Board Plus rates start at USD 493/night in a Beach Villa and USD 694/night in a Water Villa (inclusive of tax) based on two adults sharing when booked direct.

More details here