One base leader is leaving us and a new one is joining the Ocean Dimensions family. You would not believe how coincidence, timing, fate and basically life just happens and everything falls into place.

For this story I have to dig a bit deeper and start from the beginning.

We have known Ariana since she was knee high to a grasshopper. When Ariana double majored in Marine Science specializing in Aquaculture & Fisheries and Zoology at the University of Otago in New Zealand, it was clear from the start that one day she would join us here in the Maldives. With the degree in her pocket she came to work with us as a marine biologist in July 2019 at Kihaa Maldives in the Baa Atoll.

Round about the same time Gianluca from Italy started working with us. He had worked on another resort in the Baa Atoll before joining us and already knew the dive sites well. After working alongside each other for about 6 months Ariana & Gianluca started dating. Shortly after that, COVID hit. As neither could join the other in their home country Ariana went back to New Zealand and Gianluca to Italy around May 2020.

Finally in February 2021 both came back and were the first instructor & marine biologist to re-start the dive center at Kihaa after its COVID closure. This time around Gianluca was appointed base leader. Together they worked with us until summer 2023 when we had to say goodbye again. This time they are on their way for a diving season in Vietnam. Next they are planning to end up working the New Zealand summer, diving the Poor Knights. It is a famous diving destination on the North Island, just a wee bit colder than the Maldives.

I could write so much more about these 2 wonderful people. We feel so lucky to have shared such a big part of our lives together and we can honestly say we feel more like family than friends. Our paths will cross again, I am sure of that.

Now guess – who will be our next base leader? Yes, Alex, who has been a member of the Ocean Dimensions family for some time. He has worked with us in the Laamu Atoll, helped us start our base at Kihaa Maldives in the Baa Atoll and altogether he has worked with us for about 6 years. It was only a matter time when he would step into this role. Alex, it is great to have you back!