From Boardrooms
to Blue Oceans
Hi, I’m Anke Westerlaken—a dive instructor, liveaboard guide, ocean artist,columnist, underwater photographer and the founder of LoveDiving².
My dive journey began in 1999, and since then, the ocean has completely transformed my life. In 2005, I became a certified instructor and started as the Chief instructor for dive team Miramar Friesland. And by 2009, I launched my own dive school, Onderwater.nu, offering specialty training on location.
In 2013, after a career in the advertising world, I made a bold decision: I left the office behind to pursue my passion full-time. That leap took me from the cold lakes of the Netherlands to the warm waters of Egypt, where I started working as a dive guide. It didn’t take long before I was leading liveaboard trips as a cruise director for Emperor Divers and later for Blue O Two and Master Liveaboards in the Maldives. Since then, I’ve also explored and worked in Raja Ampat, the Bahamas, and beyond.
Over the years, I’ve developed a deep interest in sharks — not just as iconic apex predators, but as misunderstood, vulnerable creatures critical to ocean health. That interest led me to learn much more about elasmobranchs (sharks and rays), combining firsthand encounters with training by marine biologists and workshops with world-renowned shark experts. As part of the Project Shark program with Blue O Two and Master Liveaboards, I delivered dedicated on-board workshops during liveaboard trips. These sessions covered shark biology, species identification, evolutionary history, and the growing threats these animals face today. Sharing that knowledge at sea — right before or after encounters in the blue — continues to be one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.
With years of experience as a NOB Instructor Trainer, PADI, SSI, and DAN Instructor, I’ve trained divers of all levels—and continue to do so whenever the opportunity arises, especially with VooDoo Divers, the only Dutch dive school in Hurghada.
But diving is just one part of who I am. I’m also a creative strategist, illustrator, graphic designer, and an underwater photographer. My passion for drawing started in childhood, and over the years I’ve blended that creative background with the ocean—designing custom dive maps, creating ocean-inspired graphics, and capturing the beauty of the underwater world with my camera.
Press & Publications
In 2018, I was invited to write a story for the Duiken Magazine blog. That first article quickly led to a regular column, and I’ve been writing for the magazine ever since—bringing personal insights, unique travel stories, and underwater observations to Dutch readers every month.
My writing focuses on personal experiences, travel tips, and underwater storytelling—always rooted in a deep respect for marine life and the dive community.
Brand Values
LoveDiving² is more than a brand—it’s a philosophy.
It’s built on three core values:
- Authenticity
Everything I share—from trips to art to blog posts—comes from real experience, not marketing spin. What you see is what I live. - Creativity with Purpose
Whether it’s through writing, photography, or design, I use creative expression to inspire others to look more closely, care more deeply, and travel more consciously. - Community & Conservation
Diving is a shared experience, and LoveDiving² is about building a tribe that respects the ocean and supports one another. I believe in meaningful adventures over mass tourism, and in giving back to the ecosystems we explore.
Whether you’re planning your next big trip, browsing the shop, or just here for inspiration, I’m glad you’re part of the journey. LoveDiving² is my love letter to the ocean—and I’m honored to share it with you.
