Fatboys Resort off Gizo Island in Western Province has expanded its tourism services following the official opening of a new dive shop.
This latest service enhances its reputation as one of the leading holiday destinations in the Solomons.
The new dive shop, located within the resort premises, aims to provide guests with a full diving experience—offering scuba gear rentals, guided dives, and professional training for both beginners and experienced divers.
Speaking during a brief opening ceremony on Saturday, Ms Suellen Holland Dive Shop Manager & Instructor for Fatboys said, the expansion reflects Fatboys’ ongoing commitment to promoting marine tourism and showcasing the rich underwater beauty surrounding Gizo and nearby islands.
“After much thoughts and importantly after listening to feedback from our diving guests about how we could make their holidays even better.
“Brody make the decision to build an on sit Dive Centre. But he set two conditions, first it had to have the very best equipment and second it had to be truly world class. Looking around today, I think you will agree he achieved exactly that,” Mr. Hollan said.
Ms Holland said, in line with Fatboys policy wherever possible they use local materials and local labour.
“This Dive shop centre including boats was built entirely with skills and hard work of Solomon Islands people and companies,” she said.
She added, the shop also employs Solomon Islanders and the resort’s restaurant and accommodation are also run 100% by local staff.
In addition, the dive shop has a charter to train Solomon Islanders in diving, giving them the opportunity to earn internationally recognized certificates and build careers in this exciting industry.
Tourism Solomons Senior Marketing Officer Brenden Mautoa said, the opening of the new dive shop demonstrates the growing interests and confidence in the underwater offerings.
“By strengthening our dive shop tourism infrastructure, we are confident that more international visitors will be inspired to explore our underwater paradise.
“Increase dive tourism translates to more economic opportunities for local communities, crate jobs and greater awareness of our natural treasures,” Mr. Mautoa added.
The launch was attended by local tourism operators, Western Provincial Deputy Premier Brian Lotikena, Australia DFAT, Strongim Bisnis, Solomon Airlines representative, Tourism Solomons community representatives, and visiting guests who commended the initiative as a boost for Western Province’s tourism industry.
Fatboys Resort continues to play a major role in supporting tourism recovery efforts post-COVID-19, with the new dive facility expected to attract more international divers and adventure enthusiasts to Gizo.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
