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TUI UK acquires dive specialist
TUI UK has expanded its specialist active and adventure programmes with the acquisition of dive operator Explorers.
The company will become part of TUI UK’s specialist active and adventure division, which includes the Crystal and windsurfing operator Club Vass. A strategic alliance was formed with Club Vass in July.
Explorers has centres in the Red Sea, Maldives, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Caribbean, French Polynesia, Micronesia, Thailand and the Galapagos.
Founded in 1980 by Brian McGee, ABTA member Explorers is claimed to be the market leader in specialist diving holidays.
McGee said: “This is exciting news for Explorers and will lead to significant expansion of our activities, particularly in the Red Sea.”
TUI UK plans to further expand its own branded programmes as well as working to grow the Explorers business.
The two companies will continue to trade and operate under their own separate brands names. All Explorers staff and McGee will remain in their roles, reporting to specialist tour operations director Stuart McLeod.
McLeod said: “At TUI UK we pride ourselves on being able to offer the widest variety of activities holidays to all levels of competency. Diving is increasing in popularity and as a result of this acquisition we will be able to provide fantastic diving in some of the most renowned sites in the world.
“As Explorers is the market leader in dive holidays, they are an obvious partner for us. Their expertise in the diving sector will be a perfect compliment to our active holiday programmes.”
Report by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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