Experience Scuba Diving: Recent Episodes
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Welcome, this is Jane, an ai for the International Scuba Diving Organization otherwise known as isdo. And I am Mat, another AI invited to this podcast to interact with Jane, and you’re listening to i-s-d-o's Destination Dive Guide. We want to welcome you to this week’s podcast about diving in Antigua and Barbuda. This podcast aims to show you what diving is like around the world. It includes diving conditions, when to visit and the best dive sites. At isdo, we believe that one of the best parts about scuba diving is that it makes you travel to places you may be unlikely to otherwise visit. Let’s get started, are you ready to dive in? Antigua and Barbuda boast beautiful coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. There are a number of wrecks to be explored. Reef sharks, rays and squid call Antigua and Barbuda home. Lesser known than their Caribbean neighbors, Antigua and Barbuda have dive sites for all levels. When is the best time to go diving in Antigua and Barbuda? You can dive in Antigua and Barbuda at any time of year. Hurricane season is from July to November. The dry season is from January to April which boasts the best visibility. What is the water temperature? The water is always warm in Antigua and Barbuda ranging from 26°C to 28°C all year-round. What are the currents conditions? Currents are typically mild to strong How good is the visibility? The visibility is usually good from 15 to 40 meters. What are Antigua and Barbuda best dive sites? Here are some of out top picks: I'll start with Pillars of Hercules: Labeled after the famous Greek God, located to the South of Antigua. Large limestone rock foundations can be found above and below water. With a maximum depth of 22 meters, divers can spot lobsters, barracuda, snapper and more. Next is Jettia’s Wreck: Sunk in 1817, this wreck is located at a depth of 8 meters and is broken up into several parts. Corals have covered the parts of the boat and make for a great home for marine life. Finally on our suggestions is Cades Reef: Probably the most famous reef in Antigua, this 7 miles of reef has several dive sites located along it. Marine life including nurse sharks, turtles, and rays can be found. Sites usually range from 15 to 25 meters. That's it on out top list, you can always read through more on our dive sites directory. Tell me something about the country? With over 365 beaches, locals like to say there is a beach for each day of the year. Crystal blue waters are perfect for sailing and other water sports. Barbuda is popular with turtle lovers as they head to the island to nest. Thank you for taking the time to listen to isdo’s Diving guide. Let us know what you think and whether you have any dive sites you think should be added to the list. Would you like to become part of the isdo family? Head over to isdo.app and join to find a community of divers just like you. Made by divers, for divers. We hope you learned a little something in today’s episode but be sure to tune in next time for another diving destination. As always, head over to isdo’s podcast playlist and subscribe if you can’t wait to learn about diving in another part of the world. Every Destination Dive Guide can be found at booking.isdo.app. To catch all isdo’s latest news be sure to give us a follow on Instagram and Facebook at ISDO Dive. Happy bubbles and see you next time!
Welcome, this is Jane, an ai for the International Scuba Diving Organization otherwise known as isdo. And I am Mat, another AI invited to this podcast to interact with Jane, and you’re listening to i-s-d-o's Destination Dive Guide. We want to welcome you to this week’s podcast about diving in Tunisia. This podcast aims to show you what diving is like around the world. It includes diving conditions, when to visit and the best dive sites. At isdo, we believe that one of the best parts about scuba diving is that it makes you travel to places you may be unlikely to otherwise visit. Let’s get started, are you ready to dive in? Tunisia has some of the best diving in the Mediterranean. It has dives for all experience levels. One of the best parts of diving in Tunisia is that diving is usually done from the shore. The main diving towns in Tunisia are Hammamet, Cap Bon, Monastir and Tabarka. When is the best time to go diving in Tunisia? Diving in Tunisia can be done at any time of year. Although, from March to November the weather is best. What is the water temperature? The water temperature varies by season. In winter, the water drops to 16°C. In summer, it rises to a warm 26°C. What are the currents conditions? Currents are typically none to medium How good is the visibility? The visibility is usually good from 10 to 30 meters. What are Tunisia’s best dive sites? Here are some of out top picks: I'll start with Pigeon Grotto, Tabarka At a depth of 2 to 12 meters, this is a great site for both novice and experienced divers. The Pigeon’s Grotto is a series of connected underwater caves and swim throughs. This is an enjoyable dive which will get your adrenaline pumping. Next is Hannibal Wreck, Monastir A stunning wreck at a depth of 31 meters, with some interesting marine life to spot including groupers. Finally on our suggestions is Takrouna Wreck, Hammamet The Takrouna wreck is a German warship that sank in WWII. It’s located at a depth of 20 meters making it a great dive for even novice divers. Dolphins and pilot whales can be found at this site. The wreck is memorable as you can spot a jeep on the deck. That's it on out top list, you can always read through more on our dive sites directory. Tell me something about the country? Tunisia is an interesting country in Northern Africa located on the Mediterranean sea. It has eight UNESCO world heritage sites. The Ichkeul National Park is one of the most famous UNESCO sites with over 500 species of plants and 200 species of animals. Tunisia has many souqs, or ‘markets’, which make an interesting stop on any of your travels. Thank you for taking the time to listen to isdo’s Diving guide. Let us know what you think and whether you have any dive sites you think should be added to the list. Would you like to become part of the isdo family? Head over to isdo.app and join to find a community of divers just like you. Made by divers, for divers. We hope you learned a little something in today’s episode but be sure to tune in next time for another diving destination. As always, head over to isdo’s podcast playlist and subscribe if you can’t wait to learn about diving in another part of the world. Every Destination Dive Guide can be found at booking.isdo.app. To catch all isdo’s latest news be sure to give us a follow on Instagram and Facebook at ISDO Dive. Happy bubbles and see you next time!
Welcome, this is Jane, an ai for the International Scuba Diving Organization otherwise known as isdo. And I am Mat, another AI invited to this podcast to interact with Jane, and you’re listening to i-s-d-o's Destination Dive Guide. We want to welcome you to this week’s podcast about diving in Switzerland. This podcast aims to show you what diving is like around the world. It includes diving conditions, when to visit and the best dive sites. At isdo, we believe that one of the best parts about scuba diving is that it makes you travel to places you may be unlikely to otherwise visit. Let’s get started, are you ready to dive in? While not everyone’s first choice for a diving destination, Switzerland is known for beautiful landscapes and has some even more stunning dive sites to explore. Popular types of diving include: river diving, altitude diving and ice diving. Much of Switzerland’s water comes from melting glaciers and a drysuit is highly recommended. Verzasca River is a famous diving spot famous for its visibility. Lake Zurich and Lake Leman are two popular lakes for diving. Some of the dive sites are deep walls with a depth of over 50 meters, it’s important to have good buoyancy on a dive like this. Most dive sites are accessed from shore. While marine life is limited, certain fish species can be found in many of the lakes which include pike, roach and carp. When is the best time to go diving in Switzerland? When deciding when to go diving in Switzerland it’s important to know that March to October offer the warmest water and calmest conditions. November to February is best for ice diving. What is the water temperature? At 20m, the water temperature is between 5°C and 6°C all year-round. In summer, the temperature can rise to 20°C at the surface. What are the currents conditions? Most often none. How good is the visibility? Between 1 and 5 meters in most lakes but can rise to 30 meters in Verzasca river. What are Switzerland’s best dive sites? Here are some of out top picks: I'll start with Lac Lioson Located in the Alps at 1800m, Lac Lioson is a stunning high-altitude lake that has ice diving in the winter. Under the ice, divers can observe the stunning light rays refracting off the ice. Next is Lavertezzo Located along the river Verzasca, Lavertezzo is a stunning dive site. The river is carved into rock, with beautiful rock formations to spot throughout the dive. The glacier water is crystal clear offering amazing visibility. Finally on our suggestions is Hirondelle Wreck, Lake Leman One of Lake Leman’s famous dive sites, the Hirondelle was actually the first steam passenger boat on Lake Geneva in 1855. The Hirondelle sank in 1862. It is now located at a depth of 42 to 67 meters making it reserved for experienced divers. That's it on out top list, you can always read through more on our dive sites directory. Tell me something about the country? Switzerland is famous for its beauty and landscapes. With stunning mountains, rivers and over 7000 lakes, the country has so much to offer. Switzerland is a landlocked country. Hiking and skiing are two popular activities in Switzerland. It has the highest peaks in Europe. Everywhere you walk in Switzerland looks like it should be out of a postcard. Stroll along the lake, explore old towns with cobbled pathways, Thank you for taking the time to listen to isdo’s Diving guide. Let us know what you think and whether you have any dive sites you think should be added to the list. Would you like to become part of the isdo family? Head over to isdo.app and join to find a community of divers just like you. Made by divers, for divers. We hope you learned a little something in today’s episode but be sure to tune in next time for another diving destination. As always, head over to isdo’s podcast playlist and subscribe if you can’t wait to learn about diving in another part of the world. Every Destination Dive Guide can be found at booking.isdo.app. To catch all isdo’s latest news be sure t...
Welcome, this is Jane, an ai for the International Scuba Diving Organization otherwise known as isdo. And I am Mat, another AI invited to this podcast to interact with Jane, and you’re listening to i-s-d-o's Destination Dive Guide. We want to welcome you to this week’s podcast about diving in Jamaica. This podcast aims to show you what diving is like around the world. It includes diving conditions, when to visit and the best dive sites. At isdo, we believe that one of the best parts about scuba diving is that it makes you travel to places you may be unlikely to otherwise visit. Let’s get started, are you ready to dive in? With a huge coastline, varied conditions and topographies, South Africa has some interesting diving opportunities. In South Africa, not only can you see the Big 5 above water but also below. This includes the great white, bull shark, hammerhead, sand tiger shark and tiger shark. South Africa has a huge variety of marine life from sea lions to humpback whales. South Africa lies along two oceans: the Atlantic and the Southern Indian Ocean. Diving in South Africa was made famous by the Sardine Run and the ability to dive with great white sharks. While these are both incredible experiences, diving in South Africa is so much more. When is the best time to go diving in South Africa? It’s possible to dive all year round in South Africa. The best time of year depends on what part of South Africa you will be diving in. The area around Kwa-Zulu Natal has warm water all year round. What is the water temperature? The water temperature depends on where you will be diving. Cape Town in winter drops as low as 14°C and in summer rises to 28°C. Around Kwa-Zula Natal the water temperature is 22°C in winter and 31°C in summer. Divers should be aware that conditions can be challenging due to large swells and cold water. What are the currents conditions? Currents are typically calm to quite strong How good is the visibility? Depends on where you will be diving. Around Kwa-Zulu Natal visibility is usually between 20m and 40m. In Cape Town it is between 2m and 20m. What are South Africa’s best dive sites Here are some of out top picks: I'll start with The Great Sardine Run The Great Sardine Run is from May to July when sardines travel up the coast of South Africa to Mozambique. Millions of sardines’ swim in unison which makes for a remarkable site. In addition, spend your time spotting sharks, game fish and dolphins try to hunt them. Most boats will spend time above water looking for the shoals of sardines and drop you right in the center of the actions. Next is Gansbaai Only 2 hours from Cape Town, Gansbaai is famous for its sharks. Home to colonies of seals and penguins, sharks have become known to feed in this area. One of the main reasons divers head to South Africa is for the chance to dive with great white sharks. Local operators offer a cage diving experience in order to dive with these majestic sharks. No diving certification is required to cage dive. Finally on our suggestions is Protea Banks, Shelley Beach, Kwa-Zulu Natal A beautiful and intricate reef with amazing topography. It’s the home to game fish including barracuda, snapper and tuna. Different shark species come here to hunt the fish including bull, hammerhead and tiger sharks. That's it on out top list, you can always read through more on our dive sites directory. Tell me something about the country? South Africa is famous for its wildlife. From birds, fish, mammals and reptiles, South Africa has it all. South Africa tries to protect its wildlife by establishing numerous land and marine national parks. Thank you for taking the time to listen to isdo’s Diving guide. Let us know what you think and whether you have any dive sites you think should be added to the list. Would you like to become part of the isdo family? Head over to isdo.app and join to find a community of divers just like you. Made by divers, for divers. We hope you learned a little something in to...
Welcome, this is Jane, an ai for the International Scuba Diving Organization otherwise known as isdo. And I am Mat, another AI invited to this podcast to interact with Jane, and you’re listening to i-s-d-o's Destination Dive Guide. We want to welcome you to this week’s podcast about diving in Jamaica. This podcast aims to show you what diving is like around the world. It includes diving conditions, when to visit and the best dive sites. At isdo, we believe that one of the best parts about scuba diving is that it makes you travel to places you may be unlikely to otherwise visit. Let’s get started, are you ready to dive in? Albania has some wonderful scuba diving spots. Located in the Mediterranean, it boasts beautiful crystal blue waters. Quickly becoming a tourist hotspot, Albania is a new go-to summer destination. Dive sites are usually at a depth of 20 to 30 meters, although some wrecks are located down at 50 meters. The majority of the bottom topography is sandy and rocky. Albania is still under-rated compared to neighboring Italy and Greece. Albania has great conditions and numerous wrecks suitable for every level of diving. When is the best time to go diving in Albania? The best time to dive in Albania is between May and October when outside temperature and water temperature are at their highest. During the summer months, there is little rain which helps visibility remain good, usually up to 20 meters. What is the water temperature? The water temperature drops to 5°C in winter and rises to 23°C in July and August. What are the currents conditions? A lot of sites in Albania have moderate undercurrents. How good is the visibility? Visibility is usually between 10 and 15 meters. What are Albania’s best dive sites? Here are some of out top picks: I'll start with The Po Wreck Albania’s wrecks are world famous. Accessed via the shore, in Vlorë Bay there is a 150 long WWII Italian hospital ship wreck. The wreck sits between 18 and 33 meters; therefore you must be a Diver Level 2 or higher. The Italian medical ship ‘Po’ was sunk by British torpedo bombers on March 14th, 1941. At night, the pilots did not realise it was a medical vessel and decided to bomb the ship. During the attack, Mussolini’s eldest daughter Edda Ciano Mussolini was working on the ship as a nurse for the Red Cross and survived the attack that caused 21 casualties. Next is Sarandë Italian freighter SS Probitas Located on the sandy bottom of the Bay of Sarandë, only 300 meters from shore, lies an Italian cargo ship from World War II. The ship was sunk during World War II by German bombers. There is a surface buoy which marks the wreck. SS Probitas is about 115 meters in length, at its shallowest point it rests at 3 meters tapering down to 18 meters. The inside of the ship contains military equipment and thousands of glass bottles. Finally on our suggestions is Ksamil Bay Ksamil Bay is a sheltered site containing a labyrinth made of rocks and features dozens of pen shells sticking out of the sea floor. It’s an easy and shallow dive suitable for all levels. There is a chance to spot rays during this dive. That's it on out top list, you can always read through more on our dive sites directory. Tell me something about the country? Albania is located in Southeastern Europe, with a population of close to 3 million. Situated on both the Adriatic and Ionian Sea within the Mediterranean Sea. It has maritime borders with Greece, Montenegro and Italy. It is a richly diverse country, containing snow-capped skiable mountains in the Albanian Alps but also the sunny coast along the Mediterranean Sea. Thank you for taking the time to listen to isdo’s Diving guide. Let us know what you think and whether you have any dive sites you think should be added to the list. Would you like to become part of the isdo family? Head over to isdo.app and join to find a community of divers just like you. Made by divers, for divers. We hope you learned a little something in today’s episode bu...
Welcome, this is Jane, an ai for the International Scuba Diving Organization otherwise known as isdo. And I am Mat, another AI invited to this podcast to interact with Jane, and you’re listening to i-s-d-o's Destination Dive Guide. We want to welcome you to this week’s podcast about diving in Argentina. This podcast aims to show you what diving is like around the world. It includes diving conditions, when to visit and the best dive sites. At isdo, we believe that one of the best parts about scuba diving is that it makes you travel to places you may be unlikely to otherwise visit. Let’s get started, are you ready to dive in? Located in South America, Argentina has the South Atlantic Ocean to the East and Drake’s Passage to the South. Dive sites can go deep with most not reaching the bottom until 50 or 60 meters. The bottom structure is heterogeneous, a mixture of sand, stones and rock formations. Many do not even think of Argentina when they think of scuba diving. Those brave enough to dive in the cold waters near Ushuaia and Tierra de Fuego can be fortunate enough to spot sea lions, or on the Peninsula of Valdes, maybe elephant seals. Peninsula Valdes is home to an important breeding population of the endangered Southern right whale, as well as important breeding populations of southern elephant seals and Southern sea lions. You might even hear whale songs all the way through a dive! The Monte Cervantes Shipwreck at Ushuaia was discovered relatively recently and is the main attraction of the Beagle Channel. To dive in Argentina, the majority are fans of cold-water diving, with a preference for wall and drift dives both in salt and freshwater. The most popular dive sites are located in the Valdes Peninsula, Puerto Madrina and Ushuaia. The low water temperature attracts a large range of fish and marine animals, including sea lions, dolphins and sharks. When is the best time to go diving in Argentina? Diving is possible year-round in Argentina. Although, dry-suits may be required for the winter months. What is the water temperature? In Buenos Aires, from December to February the water is between 15°C to 17°C in summer and 8°C to 9°C in winter months. In Ushuaia, water temperature is between 2°C and 10°C all year-round. What are the currents conditions? Currents are typically moderate to strong currents in Ushuaia. How good is the visibility? The visibility is usually high at around 30 meters. What are Argentina’s best dive sites? Here are some of out top picks: I'll start with Valdes Peninsula The Valdes Peninsula is located in the Atlantic Ocean. The coastline is home to many marine mammals from sea lions, to elephant seals and fur seals. This peninsula is also the breeding ground for Southern right whales. Golfo Nuevo and Golfo San José are protected bodies of water around the peninsula and around Patagonia. The baleen whales arrive between May and December, for mating and to give birth, as the water is usually calmer here than in the surrounding areas. There’s a chance to see orcas in the open sea off the peninsula. Orcas are known to beach themselves on shore as they hunt sea lions and elephant seals. Next is Punto Loma Punta Loma is located a mere 25-minute boat ride from Puerto Madryn along the Peninsula Valdes. This area is made memorable by the chance of diving with sea lions. The site is easy and shallow, great for new divers. Sea lions are known to approach divers if they sit waiting calmly on the seabed. There are numerous photo opportunities with these playful pups. Finally on our suggestions is Estancia Tunel, Ushuaia Ushuaia, in Patagonia, is labelled as the ‘City of the End of the World’ because of its location on the southernmost tip of Argentina. Estancia Tunel features a small underwater wall reaching down to 10 meters and extending out to about 23 meters. There’s a lot to see including a kelp forest, jellyfish, sea lions, corals and king crabs. Scuba diving in Tierra del Fuego is a unique experience. The spo...
Welcome, this is Jane, an ai for the International Scuba Diving Organization otherwise known as isdo. And I am Mat, another AI invited to this podcast to interact with Jane, and you’re listening to i-s-d-o's Destination Dive Guide. We want to welcome you to this week’s podcast about diving in Armenia. This podcast aims to show you what diving is like around the world. It includes diving conditions, when to visit and the best dive sites. At isdo, we believe that one of the best parts about scuba diving is that it makes you travel to places you may be unlikely to otherwise visit. Let’s get started, are you ready to dive in? Armenia is an interesting destination as you can experience so much nature within one country, including deserts, mountains, woods and lakes. Diving is done in Lake Sevan, one of the largest fresh-water high-altitude lakes in the world. It boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for underwater photography. When is the best time to go diving in Armenia? The best time to go diving in Armenia is summer between March to October. What is the water temperature? The average water temperature of Lake Sevan is 10°C. In winter, it gets as low as 4°C, and in summer the temperature rises to 17°C. What are the currents conditions? Currents are typically calm. How good is the visibility? The visibility in Lake Sevan is usually between 4 to 10 meters. What are Armenia’s best dive site? We suggest diving at Lake Sevan Lake Sevan is one of the largest fresh-water high-altitude lakes in the world. Surrounded by mountains, the shores of the lake are picturesque. The water visibility ranges from 4 to 10 meters depending on the weather. There are over 250 types of plants in the lake with fish that are endemic to Lake Sevan alone. It’s suitable for technical divers or to learn how to dive. It offers a memorable altitude scuba diving experience. Tell me something about the country? Armenia is a landlocked country located in Western Asia. It’s neighbours include Georgia, Azerbaijan, Iran and Turkey. Armenia is a mountainous country, with many natural wonders to explore that are quickly becoming popular with tourists. There are hot springs in Arzni and Jermuk, forests in Dilijan, Aghveran, and Tsaghkadzor, and caves to the Southeast of the country. Thank you for taking the time to listen to isdo’s Diving guide. Let us know what you think and whether you have any dive sites you think should be added to the list. Would you like to become part of the isdo family? Head over to isdo.app and join to find a community of divers just like you. Made by divers, for divers. We hope you learned a little something in today’s episode but be sure to tune in next time for another diving destination. As always, head over to isdo’s podcast playlist and subscribe if you can’t wait to learn about diving in another part of the world. Every Destination Dive Guide can be found at booking.isdo.app. To catch all isdo’s latest news be sure to give us a follow on Instagram and Facebook at ISDO Dive. Happy bubbles and see you next time!
Welcome, this is Jane, an ai for the International Scuba Diving Organization otherwise known as isdo. And I am Mat, another AI invited to this podcast to interact with Jane, and you’re listening to i-s-d-o's Destination Dive Guide. We want to welcome you to this week’s podcast about diving in Australia. This podcast aims to show you what diving is like around the world. It includes diving conditions, when to visit and the best dive sites. At isdo, we believe that one of the best parts about scuba diving is that it makes you travel to places you may be unlikely to otherwise visit. Home to the largest reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef, divers from all around the world flock to Australia to explore one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The Great Barrier Reef is home to 3,000 individual reefs off the mainland and across 900 individual islands stretching over 2,300 kilometers. It has over 400 types of soft and hard coral, and is home to about 10% of the world’s fish species. Throughout Australia, there are wonderful diving locations around Byron Bay, Sydney, Cook Islands and so many more. With reefs, walls, wrecks, caves, caverns, cage diving and night diving, there is something to suit everyone’s taste. Dive sites can reach depths of 100+ meters and the bottom structure is made up mostly of hard and soft coral. When is the best time to go diving in Australia? In some places in Australia, the climate is good year-round to offer sublime diving conditions. For the best conditions, visit late August to December which is when the water is warm, conditions are best, the sea is calmest and visibility is at its highest. For a chance to see the Minke whale, the season runs from June to August. Humpback whales usually visit between August and October. In South Australia, you have the chance to dive with great white sharks from May to February. What is the water temperature? The temperature changes depending on where you are but at the Great Barrier Reef, the temperature is 21°C to 24°C in winter and 30°C in summer (December to February). What are the currents conditions? Depending on the dive site and weather conditions, there can be a mild to strong current. How good is the visibility? In Australia, visibility is usually between 15 and 20 meters and in some areas can rise to 40 meters. What are Australia’s best dive sites Here are some of out top picks: I'll start with Ningaloo Reef Ningaloo Reef is world-famous as the largest fringing reef system at a whopping 260 kilometers long stretching the western coast of Australia. Ningaloo is a famous tourist attraction as whale sharks are known to visit these waters. The chance of spotting whale sharks is not the only draw. It’s a true ecosystem with over 500 species of fish, 600 species of mollusks, 300 species of hard and soft coral, not to mention everything else! With white sand, the Ningaloo Coast has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. When you’re not in the water, spend the time soaking up the sun under a palm tree with a coconut in hand. Next is Fish Rock Cave Fish Rock Cave is one of Australia’s top 10 dive sites. The dive starts at 24 meters depth, at the Southeastern side there is a cave entrance. The cave runs for about 15 meters before it rises vertically into a chimney, torches are needed to be able to see. The cave then opens up to a large chamber where grey nurse sharks often swim past. You can spot a variety of nudibranchs and occasionally Spanish dancers. There are two bubble caves where divers are able to surface, remove their masks and regulators and speak. The cave then exits to a part appropriately labeled the aquarium, where tropical and cold-water fish meet. There is a strong current upon exiting the cave with the chance of spotting interesting marine life. Finally on our suggestions is Challenger Bay Challenger Bay is a memorable dive with a sandy bottom and beautiful coral gardens. With dozens of cleaning stations, divers will watch fish ...
Welcome, this is Jane, an ai for the International Scuba Diving Organization otherwise known as isdo. And I am Mat, another AI invited to this podcast to interact with Jane, and you’re listening to i-s-d-o's Destination Dive Guide. We want to welcome you to this week’s podcast about diving in Austria. This podcast aims to show you what diving is like around the world. It includes diving conditions, when to visit and the best dive sites. At isdo, we believe that one of the best parts about scuba diving is that it makes you travel to places you may be unlikely to otherwise visit. Let’s get started, are you ready to dive in? Austria is a landlocked country so you wouldn’t immediately assume that it would be good for diving. For some truly unique scuba dives head to Austria, boasting a huge number of lakes known for excellent visibility. Dive into the Green Lake for an opportunity to swim through a real underwater park while admiring crayfish, crabs and snails. Diving in Austria is usually characterised as pristine, crystal-clear water, with calm conditions. Some lakes go much deeper than 100 meters, remember to dive within your limits. The bottom structure is usually rocky, sandy or silty. When is the best time to go diving in Austria? The best summer diving is done between April to November. The ice diving season starts in November. From August to April, dives in Green Lake are not possible due to low water levels. What is the water temperature? It really depends on where you dive. Zelenoe Lake ranges from 5°C -7°C all year-round, while there are other lakes that reach 26°C to 27°C in summer. What are the currents conditions? Usually none How good is the visibility? The visibility in lakes is usually between 5 to 30 meters but can reach 80 meters. What are Austria’s best dive sites? Here are some of out top picks: I'll start with Green Lake (Grüner See) Grüner See (Green Lake) is a lake in Styria, Austria located in the village of Tragöß. Green Lake is surrounded by the Hochschwab Mountains and forests. Earning its name from its emerald-green water, the clean and clear water comes from melted snow from the Karst mountains. During winter, the lake is only 1 or 2 meters deep. As air temperature rises and snow begins to melt in spring, the whole basin below the mountains fills with water. During May to June, the lake is about 12 meters in depth. It is a truly sensational dive and a perfect spot for underwater photography with its unusual landscapes and great visibility. A variety of water creatures live in the lake including crabs, snails and trout. Next is Lake Attersee Lake Attersee, or Kammersee, is Austria’s third largest lake. It is a beautiful lake in the Alps. There are over 24 sites to choose from suitable for every level from beginners to more advanced divers, those wanting shallow or prefer deep. There are some freshwater fish like perches, barracudas, eel and Arctic chars. The Attersee is one of the best places in Austria to learn how to scuba dive. Interesting dive sites: Underwater Forest, Black Bridge and Ferrari Chapel. Finally on our Weissensee Kärnten (Weissensee Park) Lake Weissensee is one of the most beautiful and highest alpine diving lakes. With visibility usually ranging between 10 to 20 meters and beautiful sunken forests lining the bottom. Scuba diving can be enjoyed all year-round and ice diving is possible between December and February. Divers have a range of spots to choose from suitable for different levels. Dive sites are located along the shore and are usually accessed by boat. There are pikes, carps, perches, chub, grass carps and more to find. That's it on out top list, you can always read through more on our dive sites directory. Tell me something about the country? Austria is a mountainous landlocked country located in Central Europe. Austria shares its borders with Germany and the Czech Republic in the north, Slovakia and Hungary to the East, Italy and Slovenia to the South and Liechtenstein a...
Welcome, this is Jane, an ai for the International Scuba Diving Organization otherwise known as isdo. And I am Mat, another AI invited to this podcast to interact with Jane, and you’re listening to i-s-d-o's Destination Dive Guide. We want to welcome you to this week’s podcast about diving in Egypt. This podcast aims to show you what diving is like around the world. It includes diving conditions, when to visit and the best dive sites. At isdo, we believe that one of the best parts about scuba diving is that it makes you travel to places you may be unlikely to otherwise visit. Let’s get started, are you ready to dive in? Egypt is one of the pillars of civilization with a history dating back to the 6th-4th millennia BCE. Millions of tourists come from all parts of the world to visit the Pyramids. It has many famous tourist destinations along the Red Sea and on the Sinai Peninsula. The Red Sea has been named one of the 7 wonders of the underwater world due to its biodiversity and beauty. It has over 200 species of soft and hard coral and over 1,100 fish species. Characterised by its colourful reefs, variety of marine life, sunny weather, blue crystal clear water and some wonderful wrecks, Egypt is a scuba diving and free-diving haven. Dahab is one of the places to learn scuba diving with a whole range of centers driving down course prices. Egypt has something for everyone, from recreational to technical diving, CMAS to the most advanced. Types of diving include: reefs, wall dives, drift dives, boat dives, wreck dives, cavern dives, night dives, technical diving, freediving, deep dives and so much more. The bottom structure is either sandy, rocky or coral. There is something to suit everyone’s taste in Egypt, so come explore the underwater world! When is the best time to go diving in Egypt? Diving is a year-round activity in Egypt with water temperature never dropping below 20°C and rising to 30°C in the summer months. The best months to visit are usually September and October or March and April. Summer runs from May to the start of October. There is a chance of spotting hammerheads between June and September and whale sharks between May and August. What are the currents conditions? Depending on the dive site, weather and water conditions, the currents can range from none to strong. How good is the visibility? Visibility in Egypt is high ranging from 20 to 50 meters. What is the water temperature? 21°C to 30°C in the Red Sea depending on the time of year. On the Mediterranean side, the temperature ranges from 14°C to 27°C. What are Egypt’s best dive sites? Here are some of out top picks: I'll start with Blue Hole The Blue Hole is one of Egypt’s most famous dive sites. It’s a submarine sinkhole, the hole has a maximum depth of over 100 meters. Known as ‘the saddle’ there is a shallow opening to the open sea at around 6 meters. There is a 26 meters long tunnel, made famous by technical divers and labeled ‘the arch’; it has a ceiling to a depth of 55 meters. The hole and coral wall surrounding it are filled with coral and fish. Next is SS Thistlegorm SS Thistlegorm was a British Merchant Navy ship built in 1940 by Joseph Thompson & Son in England. With a length of 128 meters, it has become the most famous wreck in the Red Sea. Sunk on the 6th of October, 1941 by German bombers near Ras Muhammed. SS Thistlegorm can be easily visited from Sharm el Sheikh or Dahab. The wreck is at a depth of 30 meters making it suitable for advanced open water divers and above. The ship remains largely intact, you can even spot trucks and motorbikes. Finally on our suggestions is Elphinstone Reef Elphinstone Reef is famous for being one of the only places on earth where you can dive with the oceanic whitetip shark and hammerheads in the same dive. It is a standalone reef in the Red Sea situated 30 km north of Marsa Alam. The best time to spot the oceanic whitetip shark is between October to December. You have a chance to spot manta rays between May a...
Learn to Dive in Bangladesh Bangladesh’s Highlights Diving in Bangladesh is still relatively under-developed. The only place you can dive is in Saint Martin Bangladesh. This island located on the Lesser Antilles is breathtaking. There are two marine parks, helping the coral stay protected. Dive sites are equipped with mooring buoys as one of their protection strategies. The marine life is abundant with turtles, lobsters, groupers, sea fans, colourful coral and beautiful fish. The reef surrounding the island is named Chera Dweep. Saint Martin is a tropical paradise, the only coral island in Bangladesh, with beautiful sandy beaches lined with coconut palms. At the southernmost tip, the island has mangrove forests. Several endangered species of turtles’ lay nests on the island and a sea turtle conservation program site operates on the west of the island. Located in the Bay of Bengal, it is just 8km from Myanmar. It’s a laid-back and peaceful place. You can visit the whole island in a day, as it is 8 km² in low tide, and shrinks to 5km² when the tide is high. There are 7’000 inhabitants. There is no electricity while some of the larger hotels have generators they run for a few hours in the evening. When you’re not diving, you’ll most likely be relaxing in a hammock. When is the best time to go diving in Bangladesh? The tourist season is usually during winter between November and February, as between May and July it is the monsoon season. Water Temperature: The water temperature ranges from 18°C in winter to 28°C in summer. Currents: Moderate currents Visibility: 5 to 20 meters. Bangladesh’s best dive sites Saint Martin Island Saint Martin’s island is located in the Bay of Bengal, 9 km south of Cox’s Bazar. It’s a truly unique setting featuring two nationalities, two distinct cultures and two administrations. There are even two marine parks, meaning the area around the island remains protected. The dive sites are equipped with mooring buoys so boats do not have to anchor which damages the reef. Saint Martin is home to an abundance of marine life including: turtles, lobsters, conchs, sea fans, hogfish, groupers and much more. About the country Bangladesh is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia. It features more than 700 rivers, keeping the country very green as a result. It is said that there are more types of boats used in Bangladesh than any other country, so be sure to explore the rivers with your boat of choice. Activities that can be enjoyed include water skiing, hiking, rowing, yachting and fishing. Getting to Bangladesh Bangladesh has international airports with direct flights to many countries. Within the country, there are domestic flights, boats, trains and you can drive. Boats or trains remain the safest and most consistent form of travel. Get to Saint Martin by catching a bus to Teknaf or fly to Cox’s Bazar then take a bus or private car to Teknaf. From Teknaf, take a boat which should take around 2 hours and enjoy the spectacular views as you cruise the Naf River.
Learn to Dive in Mexico Mexico’s Highlights Mexico has something for everyone. With jungles, beaches, mangrove forests, volcanoes, cenotes, and more all within one beautiful country. Rich in culture and history, Mexico is an amazing place to visit. In one trip, you will never be able to explore all of its rich and diverse geography, but each part of Mexico is special for its own reasons. On the Pacific coast, you have the chance to spot something big for example, whales, dolphins and sharks. On the Caribbean side, it is connected to the second biggest barrier reef in the world. Not to mention, the Cenotes, an intricate cave system with some of the most unique dives on the planet. When is the best time to go diving in Mexico? If you plan to visit the Pacific Coast, the best time of year is between June and October, as the water is warmer and visibility is good. It also depends on where you want to go and what you want to see. Diving on the Caribbean side is possible at any time of year. For the cenotes, the best months are between May and September as this is when the most light is cast into the sinkholes. Water Temperature: The water is colder on the Pacific coast ranging from 19°C to 27°C depending on the time of year. Along the Caribbean coast, water temperature is warmer ranging from 25°C to 30°C, making diving possible year-round. Currents: On the Pacific side, there tends to be strong currents, high waves and difficult sea conditions, usually appropriate for more experienced divers. In contrast, the Caribbean side is known for mild to strong currents and easier sea conditions. Cozumel is known for its drift diving and currents can get strong. There are instances of the washing machine current, which is a sort of “tornado” that turns you round head over heels. Visibility: On the Pacific side, visibility is not great, usually between 10 and 20 meters. Along the Caribbean side, visibility is great between 20 and 40 meters. In the cenotes, visibility can be as high as 100 meters, meaning that the water is crystal-clear. Mexico’s best dive sites Cenotes: The cenotes of the Yucatan are a system of underwater caves, some have collapsed to form sinkholes, filled with both fresh and saltwater. The visibility is unrivaled, with sunlight rays piercing the water, sometimes offering an eerie backdrop with stalagmites and stalactites being abundant. The atmosphere is truly unique in the cenotes. A hydrogen sulfide cloud forms as vegetation decomposes at the bottom of the cenotes making it appear like there is smoke in the water. For some memorable dives check out: The Pit, Dos Ojos, Angelita, and Dreamgate. Cozumel: Cozumel is a world-famous diving destination known for its drift dives, located along the Great Maya Barrier Reef, the second largest reef system in the world. Based along the Caribbean side, the water is abundant with marine life, beautiful coral, and the chance to spot rays, turtles and sharks. There are many sites suitable for every level. Famous dive sites: Palancar Reef, Colombia Wall, Santa Rosa Wall and Barracuda Reef Guadalupe Island Guadalupe Island is a volcanic island and is one of the only places in the world where you can see great white sharks. Depending on your certification level, the cage will be placed either just below the surface or slightly further down. Get the chance to see great white sharks in their natural habitat. Guadalupe Island is only accessible from August to October by liveaboard from San Diego in the US or Ensenada in the north of Mexico and includes three days of diving. Famous Dive site: Discovery Bay About the country Mexico’s history has origins to 8,000 BC and is considered one of the six cradles of civilization, home to the Mesoamerican civilizations including the Maya and Aztecs. In 1521, Mexico was conquered and colonized by the Spanish, establishing Spain’s new colony. During this time, native populations were exploited and used as labour. With time, Mexicans formed their own id...
Learn to Dive in Italy Italy’s Highlights Italy’s famous for its culture, food and art. With thousands of miles of coastline to explore, it also has some amazing scuba diving. There are wrecks, reefs, caves and caverns to explore. It is known for its technical diving, with some of the most complex cave and tunnel systems in the world. The bottom structure is a mix between sandy, rocky and stony. With clear water and a variety of marine life, both freshwater and saltwater dives are possible. One of the most unique dives is around the Ferdinandea Volcano crater in Sicily, how often do you get to dive to see a volcano? Some of the best diving in Italy is done around Sardinia, Elba, Sicily, the Pontine archipelago and Liguria located on the Italian Riviera. Interesting marine life to spot include octopus, seahorses, groupers, barracudas and more. There is also diving in lakes, including Lake Garda, and freshwater reservoirs. Some nice spots to snorkel and free dive are resorts located along Elbe and the Ligurian coast. When is the best time to go diving in Italy? Spring and Summer offer the best diving conditions. Between April to October, July and August is when the water is warmest at around 25°C. Water Temperature: The water temperature is between 9°C and 15°C in winter and from 22°C to 28°C in summer depending on the area. Currents: Currents range from weak to strong. At most sites, there is no current or a weak current. Visibility: Like in Greece, Italy is known for having good visibility. A bad day would see visibility at about 15 meters with a good day on the Mediteranean Coast visibility is about 40 meters. Italy’s best dive sites Elba Elba is an island located in the Tyrrhenian Sea’s Tuscan Archipelago National Park. It is said to be the best diving in the Mediterranean, with its protected environment the chance of spotting interesting marine life is common. Elba is a perfect holiday destination featuring white sandy beaches and crystal blue water. The island is located next to a shallow and brightly coloured reef, perfect for divers and freediving. There are beautiful sea beds and deep walls, featuring red and green gorgonians, black coral and red coral. There is a chance to spot groupers, barracuda, shrimp, lobster, eels. Sunfish, dolphins, turtles and sharks have also been spotted. Top dives site: Elviscot, Formiche della Zance and Punta Nera La Maddalena La Maddalena is located in northern Sardinia and is a geo-marine National Park encompassing 180 km². The archipelago features over 30 dive sites suitable for different levels of scuba divers. Most sites have rocky bottoms and great visibility. As you dive, you will see granite rocks, drop offs, pinnacles, overhangs, swim-throughs, caves, all teeming with marine life and corals. There is the chance to spot octopus, crabs, lobsters, nudibranchs’, breams, stone fish, eels and so much more! La Maddalena is by far one of the best places in Italy to spot marine life. Top dive sites: Washington Rock, Angelika Wreck and Grouper city Tremiti Islands The Tremiti Islands or Isole Tremiti are a small archipelago in Italy’s Adriatic Sea. They are part of Gargano National Park and offer some beautiful spots, rich with marine life. The island archipelago consists of 5 islands named San Nicola, San Domino, Caprara, the Scoglio del Cretaccio and Pianosa. Each island has its own unique morphology, underwater landscape and marine life leading to a huge variety in the dive sites on offer. There are numerous areas to be explored while there are some spots for all levels of divers, many spots lend themselves to more experienced or technical divers only. Due to sometimes harsher conditions and more difficult dives, it is less crowded than other archipelago’s in the region. Top dive sites: Scoglio del Sale, the cave of Sale, Punta Elefante and the creek of the Murene. About the country Italy has a unique history, delicious food, rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and some of the best div...
Learn to Dive in France France’s Highlights Diving sites along the Atlantic Ocean can go up to 60 meters. The bottom structure is made up of sand, stones and rocky structures. France was the founder of scuba diving. A popular activity for tourists is to go diving along the French Riviera, but there are also sites in the island of Corsica, along the Atlantic Coast and in the water of the English Channel. With little marine life and coral, there are a variety of shipwrecks including ships and even a German submarine. One of the main draws of scuba diving in France is the community. Divers tend to stay in campsites or trailer parks close to dive sites, sharing a community spirit and their passion. This also helps reduce the cost of staying in accommodation. When is the best time to go diving in France? Along the Mediterranean side, diving is possible all year-round with the right equipment and qualifications. You will require either a thick wetsuit or dry-suit to dive in winter. Along the Atlantic, it is possible from April to November. Water Temperature: In the Mediterranean Sea, the water ranges from 11°C to 17°C in winter and 20°C to 28°C in summer. Currents: The currents depend on the site and weather conditions. There can be no current, weak, moderate or strong currents. Visibility: Water visibility in France ranges from 10 to 30 meters depending on the time of year and where you dive. France’s best dive sites Lot et Garonne Lot et Garonne offers some of France’s best dive sites. Located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, it features a complex cave system. The most famous sites have beautiful cave paintings lining the walls. The water is usually crystal-clear offering high visibility. Some prior experience in cave diving is required as these caves can be difficult because of the density of tunnels, narrow walls and amount of sediment on the bottom. A true mecca for cave diving lovers. Grand Tombant De La Pointe Au Sel La Pointe au Sel is an interesting dive site starting with coral formations from 25 meters to 71 meters. The drop-off starts at 25 meters and runs to 71 meters and is considered one of the best dives in La Reunion. There is a chance to spot: manta rays, devil rays, John Dory, Napoleon wrasse, tunas, barracudas, Mako sharks, lemon sharks, dolphins and even whale sharks. Between October and November, you may be able to dive with hammerheads. Port-Cros Port-Cros is a French island located in the Mediterranean, part of the group of islands known as Îles d’Hyères. This region has a large national park that has become famous with many dive spots. It has fauna of the Mediterranean and marine life including groupers, break, moray eels and scorpion fish. Not only are there a variety of reefs and steep walls, the Port-Cros is famous worldwide for some of its wrecks including the Donator. This 78-meter long freighter sank in 1945 and is located at a depth of 50 meters. The wreck is home to a huge amount of marine life and soft corals. Other notable wrecks in the area include: the Greek, the three masts Togo and the submarine Rubis. About the country France is one of the world’s leading tourist destinations. Featuring a rich history and culture, it offers beaches and seaside towns, ski resorts, lavish cities and rural regions. Wander down the Champs d’Élysée in Paris admiring the boulevards or visit Côte d’Azur, a truly remarkable seaside town. With chateaus, beautiful architecture and picture-perfect villages, France is a country to be explored. Each region has its own distinct cuisine and cultures, traveling around France offers a culinary dream like no other. Getting to France Most international flights land at Charles de Gaulle in Paris. From there, you can connect domestically or catch a train or bus to your destination. Within most cities, you can get around with public transport such as the metro, tram and bus.
Learn to Dive in Spain Spain’s Highlights Spain is often disregarded as a scuba diving spot, but there are many beautiful places to explore. It is most popular among local and European divers. In certain spots, you can enjoy diving all year-round. In Spain, diving is usually reef, wall, wreck or caves. The bottom structure is usually sandy and stony. There are dives of all depths but some can be as deep as 50 meters. Some areas to note for diving are Costa del Maresme, Costa Brava, Costa Dorada and the Canary Islands. Spain has some good options for deep dives, technical diving and has some impressive wrecks to explore. When is the best time to go diving in Spain? In the Canary Islands, you are able to scuba dive all year-round. In the rest of Spain, the climate varies across the country. In most dive spots, diving starts from April to October, but you may want to bring a thick wetsuit as water temperatures are relatively cold. Water Temperature: Along the Mediterranean Coast, the water temperature ranges from 15°C in winter to 27°C in summer. In the Canary Islands water temperatures go from 18°C in winter to 24°C in summer. Currents: Along the Mediterranean coast, there is little or a mild current. Around the Canary Islands, the current can be between mild and strong. Visibility: In the Mediterranean Sea, visibility is usually very good at around 30 meters. On the Atlantic side, visibility is much less at around 10 to 20 meters on a good day. Spain’s best dive sites El Bajón Del Río, Fuerteventura El Bajon Del Rio is one of Canary Island’s most famous dive sites. The Canary Islands were formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago and offer some interesting opportunities with diverse marine life. The seafloor is made up of volcanic rocks, in the shape of giant mushrooms, up to 15 meters tall and home to an abundance of sea life. Divers have the chance to spot parrot fish, barracuda, sting rays, trigger fish, lobsters, prawns, eels and much more. Cabo De Palos Cape Palos or Cabo De Palos in Spanish is an area of volcanic rock sitting on the peninsula at the tail end of La Manga close to La Cartagena. Famous for its wrecks, it’s a haven for experienced and technical divers. Lying between Cabo de Palos and Grosa Island, there are vessels from WW1 and WW2, even a Phoenician boat dating back 3,000 years. It is also a meeting point, the cooler water from the Atlantic mixes with the warmer Mediterranean water causing currents that bring nutrients to the reef system ensuring the marine life has plenty to eat. Islas Medas Islas Medas or Medes Islands, the small archipelago, is a marine reserve made up of 7 small uninhabited islands. Filled with underwater caves, tunnels and swim throughs, teeming with gorgonian coral and an abundance of marine life. There are 30 kilogram groupers to spot, with the occasional chance to see sunfish and eagle rays. As a result of its marine-preserve status, the dive sites in this area are home to an improbable number of fish. About the country Spain is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations with great food, amazing culture combined with interesting history and architecture. It’s a country worth visiting more than once. The country is both geographically and culturally diverse, made up of rich landscapes, vivacious cities and ancient ruins. Spain has 47 UNESCO World Heritage Sites which include historical monuments, cities and more. Hiking, bike riding, surfing, swimming, golfing, water sports and football are outdoor activities enjoyed throughout Spain. Getting to Spain You can get to Spain by flying, taking a train, driving or by boat. Within cities, public transport can be used to get around. To travel domestically, take a train, drive or catch a bus.
Learn to Dive in the United Kingdom United Kingdom’s Highlights Diving in the UK is not for the faint of heart. With cold water temperatures throughout the year and tough sea conditions, diving in the UK is not for the faint of heart. Divers usually have to be dry suit certified and some centers only take Advanced Open Water Divers. There are options to see sunken ships, play with seals and dolphins. Experienced divers will enjoy exploring underwater mines and caverns. The diving depth goes up to 45 meters and the bottom structure is a combination of sand and stone. There are sites scattered around England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. Tough weather conditions can make diving more difficult so be sure to go with a local guide and dive within your limits. When is the best time to go diving in the UK? You can technically go diving all year-round in the UK although in winter sometimes it is not possible. The best time is between May and June and from September to October. Diving in quarries is usually the recommendation if you want to go during the winter months. Water Temperature: Ranges from 4°C in winter to 17°C or 18°C in August and September. Currents: Strong currents are the usual and strong tidal currents are possible. Visibility: Visibility is usually very poor between 5 and 15 meters, although it can rise to 30 meters on a good day. UK’s Best Dive Sites The Farne Islands Located around the Farne Islands along the Northumberland coastline in England, there are many dive sites including a variety of wrecks, reefs and walls. One of the major highlights of the Farne Islands is that it is the home of 5000 grey seals. The young seals are extremely playful and inquisitive to divers, you may feel a tug on your fin at some point during the dive! There are a series of wrecks to explore including: St Andre, Abyssinia and The Chris Christiansen to name a few with depths ranging from 15 to 35 meters, meaning there is a wreck for all abilities. Best dive sites: The Hopper, Longstone Ends and Brittania Scapa Flow Scapa Flow is one of Europe’s most famous dive sites and one of the most popular wreck dive sites in the world. In 1919, 52 vessels of the German fleet were sunk in Scapa Flow off the Orkney Islands along Scotland’s northern coast. It is a natural harbour and has been used in both world wars. Some of the wrecks have been salvaged over the years while plenty remain including three 177 meter battleships and four 155 meter cruisers. Try dives are also possible at Churchill Barriers, for those wanting to experience what wreck diving has to offer. Best dive sites: SMS Dresden, Blockship Tabarka and SMS Kronprinz Wilhelm County Donegal County Donegal, on the Northwest coast of the Republic of Ireland is home to Malin Head. Malin Head is one of the only spots to spot basking sharks and boasts a higher concentration of U-boats than anywhere else in the world. There have also been sightings of the whales, dolphins and oceanic sunfish, otherwise known as the mola mola. Deep wreck enthusiasts may want to explore the WW1 Dreadnought HMS Audacious or the SS Empire Heritage with cargo of Sherman tanks. Tech-diving certifications are required. Macro enthusiasts will enjoy spotting crustaceans, conger eels and nudibranchs. With its rugged coastline, there are some scenic divers. Best dive sites: Horn Head, Kalliopis and Pan Bay About the country The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, shortened to the UK, is a political union made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The English Channel separates the UK and Europe. The UK is made up of two large islands in the Atlantic Ocean: the islands of Great Britain and Ireland. The UK was part of the European Union, up until ‘Brexit’ was made final on the 31st of December, 2020. London, England’s capital, has many exciting attractions including the London Eye and the Shard. Getting to the UK Traveling to the United Kingdom is usually quite possible by plane, boat, bu...
Learn to Dive in the United Arab Emirates United Arab Emirates’ Highlights What makes the United Arab Emirates’ an exciting diving destination is the number of wrecks. Around Dubai, there are a few dozen ships ranging from barges and drilling platforms, to carriers full of vehicles, now the home to stingrays and schools of tuna. In Fujairah, one of the UAE’s best diving destinations, there is a huge coral reef, home to coray eels, turtles, seahorses, lobsters and smaller marine life. The bottom structure is usually sandy, rocky or made up of coral with a maximum diving depth on some of the deepest sites of 80 meters. When is the best time to go diving in the United Arab Emirates? Usually during winter months, when the water temperature reaches 30°C. During coral breeding in autumn, the water of the Persian Gulf turns reddish and muddy. In summer, there is a huge amount of plankton and the water becomes cloudy. Water Temperature: In summer, the water temperature is about 32°C. In winter, the lowest it gets is 22°C. Currents: None to mild currents. Visibility: Usually poor between 5 and 15 meters, can go up to 30 meters depending on the location and weather conditions. United Arab Emirates’ best dive sites Dibba Rock Fujairah’s Dibba Rock ranges from 4m to 16m and is a great place to spot marine life. With an abundance of colourful coral, this rocky island has long sloping sides covered by reefs formed by soft and boulder corals. During high tide, you can make a full circuit of the island in a single dive. Ideal for open water divers and free divers, there is a chance to spot parrotfish, moray eels and turtles. It’s one of the only places in the UAE with a chance to spot blacktip reef sharks or whale sharks too depending on the season. It’s also a great and easy night dive as it’s simple to navigate. Inchcape 1 Inchcape 1 is Fujairah’s famous wreck. Reaching a depth of 30 meters, it is only suitable for advanced open water divers and above. You are able to navigate the wreck during a single dive. The vessel was used by Inchcape shipping services to transport supplies and crew from Dubai to Fujairah. The purposely sunk wreck is home to many large honeycomb eels, sea horses and frog fish. Divers descend and ascend using a line to the bow of the boat. Zainab Zainab is one of Dubai’s most famous dive sites and shipwrecks, located only 40 minutes from shore by boat. It was built in 1969 by Smith’s Dock Co. Ltd, when it sank it caused extreme panic in the Gulf as the oil was spread everywhere. Zainab is now at a depth of 30 meters, laying on the port side on a flat sandy bottom. The highest part of the ship lies at 20 meters. There is a chance to spot huge schools of yellowtail barracuda. It’s a favourite amongst divers due to its ease of access to gain access to the ship. About the country The United Arab Emirates has become famous for its high-end resorts, high-rise skyscrapers and luxury lifestyle. Quickly developing into a tourist hotspot for singles, families and couples. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are both multi-cultural melting pots with world-class services. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Jabal al Jais, Burj Khalifa, Emirates Palace and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are some of the country’s most famous attractions. For nature lovers, spend nights in the desert under the stars or hike the peaks of the Hajar Mountains. Getting to the United Arab Emirates Dubai and Abu Dhabi are two of the busiest airports in the world with the highest number of international connections. Sharjah international airport connects flights from around the Middle East. From neighboring countries, the United Arab Emirates can be reached by car or boat. Travel within the country is easy. The public transport including buses, metro and trains are easy to use, safe and reliable.
Learn to Dive in the USA America’s Highlights Due to its size the United States has a kind of spot for every level of scuba diver. The East and West coasts have some beautiful places to go diving as well as the interior of the country has a vast amount of lakes and rivers. In Alaska, get the chance to spot something big including orcas, sea lions, salmon and humpback whales. California has a range of diving options from swimming through kelp forests to historical wrecks and stunning reefs. There’s a chance to spot humpback whales, seals and dolphins. Key Largo in Florida has proclaimed itself the dive capital of the world and is home to the largest artificial reef the USS Spiegel Grove and features the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Hawaii has some of the best diving on the planet with crystal blue water, warm waters, and a variety of marine life to see. When is the best time to go diving in the USA? Alaska: In Alaska, it is possible at any time of year. In winter, you will require a dry suit and relevant dry suit certification but in summer months you can dive in a thick wetsuit. California: Diving in California can be done at any time of year. In fall and winter, visibility is at its best. Florida: Hurricane season in Key Largo and the Florida Keys is between June and December and the best time is between April to July. Hawaii: Diving in Hawaii is possible all year-round but between April to June and September to December offers the calmest water with the best visibility. Water Temperature Alaska: In winter the water is at 4°C but rises to 15°C in summer. California: In the south of California during summer the water temperature can reach 20°C, while the north remains cold at around 11°C. August and September have the hottest water temperature, with January having the coldest. Florida: The water is always warm at any time of year at a minimum of 20°C in winter and rising to 30°C in summer, August is the hottest month. Hawaii: The water in Hawaii is always warm and doesn’t change much throughout the year. It is 25°C in winter and 28°C in summer. Currents Alaska: Usually strong. California: Varies depending on the dive site and surface conditions. Florida: It depends on the dive site and the weather, currents can range from none to strong. Hawaii: Mild to strong depending on the dive site and the weather conditions. Visibility Alaska: Visibility depends on the day and ranges from 7 to 25 meters. Due to upwellings from below, it can be poor at times but this means you can get the chance to spot something big. California: It depends on where you are in California but ranges from 9 to 24 meters. Florida: Visibility ranges from 12 to 30 meters. Hawaii: Visibility is usually very high between 20 and 30 meters. America’s best dive sites Catalina Island, California Catalina Island, in California, is part of a group of Channel Islands that lies on the Pacific coastline, Southwest of Los Angeles. Established in 1962, this beautiful marine reserve has a huge range of biodiversity. With over 50 sites to choose from, divers have the ultimate choice. Most dive sites have kelp forests at a depth between 5 and 20 meters. Sea lions, giant black sea bass and angel sharks are residents and can be found in the kelp forests and sand below. Best dive sites: Farnsworth Bank, Seal Rocks and Eel Cove Kona, Hawaii Kona, Hawaii, located on the Western shore of the Big Island boasts over 50 sites with an exciting array of marine life. One of the most popular activities is night diving with manta rays. These friendly giants feed off plankton and are attracted to the lights along the coastline at night. Blackwater diving is also popular, where a group of divers is taken offshore and suspended mid-water waiting to see what drifts past during the night. The bottom is made up of lava tubes, boulders, tunnels, grottos and reefs. Divers can spot fish, turtles, reef sharks, humpback whales and even hammerhead sharks. Best dive sites: Two Step, Crescen...
Learn to Dive in Portugal Portugal’s Highlights Portugal is sure to surprise you. While you would not often associate these marine animals with the Atlantic Ocean, there are turtles, sharks, whales and dolphins to spot. There’s something for every level whether recreational or technical, wrecks or reefs. The Azores located close to Lisbon is famous for diving, made up of an archipelago of volcanic peaks in the middle of the Atlantic. From April to October there’s the chance to spot a variety of whales, sharks and dolphins. Visibility ranges from 5 to 40 meters. The Algarve coast, located on Portugal’s southern-tip, is on the Atlantic Ocean. It has fewer currents than other parts of the country. Visibility ranges from 5 to 15 meters. For those visiting Lisbon and who want to add-on a bit of diving, head to Sesimbra lying within Arrabida National Park. You can dive here at any time of year. When is the best time to go diving in Portugal? The best time of year to dive is subjective and depends on your budget. If tight on cash, you might want to visit Madeira and the Azores during the winter. In both of these locations, you can spot whales year-round. Water Temperature: The water temperature ranges from 16°C in the winter months to 25°C in summer. Currents: None to moderate Visibility: 5 to 40 meters Portugal’s best dive sites Berlengas National Park Located close to Peniche, a famous fishing village, the Berlengas National Park lies. This protected park is absolutely stunning. It has a volcanic and sandy bottom, take your time searching for treasures underneath. There’s a cave dive featuring red gorgonians. Ocean Wreck, Algarve Dating back to the Seven Years’ War, Ocean was sunk by the English in 1759. This is one of the oldest wrecks in the world to explore while scuba diving. Even beginner divers can enjoy this impressive wreck as it lies in 10 meters of water. River Gurara wreck, Sesimbra Located 49 km from Lisbon, Sesimbra is a small coastal town on the Atlantic Ocean. Sesimbra has a huge range of diving options for all levels. The ship is broken into two parts and therefore can be done in separate dives. The stern of the ship lies at 25 meters while the bow is located at 30 meters. The ship is covered in gorgonians, sea anemones and sponges. Home to some interesting creatures like cuttlefish, octopus and lobsters. About the country Portugal is a great travel destination above and below water. During your evenings, spend your time leisurely exploring surrounding towns and eating delicious food. Both food and drink will play a huge part in your holiday with some of the most exquisite seafood in the world. Portugal has a rich and vibrant culture and history. As one of the first and largest maritime powers of all times, Portugal led many of the expeditions to explore the world. Historical landmarks, museums and cultural sites are worth a visit. Outdoor activities include surfing, swimming and hiking. Portugal has long been considered the best European destination for surfing. Getting to Portugal Becoming the new European diving destination, Portugal is easily accessible. Lisbon is a quick 2-hour flight from most major European destinations. For access from Asia or America, you may have to transfer through Paris, Frankfurt or other major airports. To travel between different parts of Portugal, easily book a flight, take a bus or rent a car.
Learn to dive in Indonesia Indonesia’s Highlights Located in the Coral Triangle and home to at least 25% of the world’s fish population, Indonesia is on every diver’s wishlist. With over 500 species of corals and 2,000 types of fish. When diving in Indonesia, there are so many spots to pick from making divers are spoilt for choice. With large pelagic fish and small critters to spot, Indonesia has it all. Muck diving, drift dives, and wall dives are popular. To get the most out of Indonesia, consider booking a liveaboard. Raja Ampat is considered to be the best place to scuba dive in the world. When is the best time to go diving in Indonesia? April to December is known as the dry season and offers the best diving conditions. In addition, January to March is considered the wet season and due to rain, some dive sites become inaccessible. Water Temperature: Usually between 26°C and 30°C year-round. Also, areas like Komodo can see temperatures as low as 16°C. Currents: Mild to strong currents. Visibility: Visibility is between 10 and 50 meters. Indonesia’s best dive sites Seraya Secrets, Bali Seraya was too good to keep a secret. Located in Bali, Seraya Secrets is one of the best muck dives in the region. The silty black floor from volcanic sand is nutrient-rich and full of interesting marine life. Your local guide should be able to show you some interesting critters. Go slow and take your time. Do not forget your camera for this dive! Bunaken National Park, Sulawesi Island With over 70% of Indonesia’s fish species all located in one spot. This will be sure to be a dive you never forget. There’s so much to look at in terms of marine life and coral biodiversity. There are over 70 types of coral, white and black tip reefs sharks, and even a dugong. The coral is healthy leading to an abundance of marine life. Boo Windows, Raja Ampat Raja Ampat is talked about by divers from all over the world. It is voted as the number one place to dive. From soft and hard coral to sloping reefs and pinnacles Boo Windows is an incredible dive site. The pinnacles attract some large pelagic life. There are several species of seahorse to discover on the dive. Explore the huge Gorgonian Fans in search of pygmy seahorses. About the country Indonesia is the fourth most populated country in the world with over 270,000,000 inhabitants. It’s the world’s largest archipelago with over 17,504 islands. In addition, the population is relatively young with roughly 175,000,000 under 30 years old. The Komodo Dragon is endemic to Indonesia and can be spotted there in its natural habitat. Also, over 35% of Indonesia’s birds and mammals are native to Indonesia. Its landscapes are extremely diverse. Further, It ranks as the third country in the world in terms of the number of volcanoes with over 147 active volcanoes. Usually, at least once a year, a volcano erupts. Getting to Indonesia Most tourists enter Indonesia from either Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta or Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali. Travelling to Indonesia from America will take 20 hours or more, from Europe under 20, and from Australia between 4-7. Neighboring countries can easily be accessed by ferry including Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The traffic in Indonesia is notoriously bad so plan accordingly. As a result, there are many public transport and private car services making getting around without driving doable.
Learn to dive in the Philippines Philippines’ Highlights The Philippines’ archipelago is made up of 7,107 islands located in Southeast Asia. There are over 500 types of hard and soft coral to spot during your dives. With colourful reefs, exquisite wrecks and an abundance of marine life, the Philippines is a truly memorable diving destination. The Philippines is famous for some of the best diving on the planet. Due to its vastness, there is a huge diversity in the dives offered. No matter what level you are, the Philippines has something for everyone and to suit each of your interests. It has exquisite wrecks and macro life. Throughout the Philippines, there are over 1,200 marine animals to spot and 400 types of coral. A single dive will have you seeing so many new and interesting creatures. The coral is healthy and vibrant. When is the best time to go diving in the Philippines? You can dive in the Philippines all year round. March to June is when the weather is warmest and visibility is at its best. Diving from March to May offers the greatest chance of spotting whale sharks. Water Temperature: The water temperatures run from 23°C to 30°C all year round. Currents: Mild to strong Visibility: Between 5 and 45 meters depending on location. Philippines’ best dive sites Amos Rock, Tubbataha Reef National Park A UNESCO World Heritage site with over 600 species of fish, and 360 species of coral, and the opportunity to dive with whales, dolphins and sharks. It’s the home of many reef sharks. This dive spot is famous for its beautiful and vibrant coral. This remote location is only accessible by liveaboard between March and June. Manta Bowl, Ticao Pass, Donsol Due to its plankton rich waters and ever-flowing current, manta rays use this area as a feeding area and cleaning station. The best chance to dive with manta rays is between December and May. During the dive, you may also spot whale sharks, hammerheads or other species of shark. Moalboal, Cebu Most people head to South Africa for the Sardine Run without realizing that this occurs in the Philippines too. Home to over 7 million sardines, the sardines create shoals swimming around for a mesmerizing dive. Feel what it’s like to be surrounded by hundreds of thousands of sardines, with you swimming through the middle. About the country The Philippines are a tropical paradise. Famous for its white sandy beaches, welcoming hospitality and for some of the tastiest fruit on the planet. Stunning diverse landscapes span the country from rice terraces amongst the green hills to busy city life. It’s a destination you can visit at any time of year. Even during the rainy season, the sun still shines during the day. Around the cities, Filipinos use colorful Jeepneys with historical ties back to WWII as their main form of public transport. While in recent years, these have started to be replaced with more climate friendly models. The Philippines are located close to the equator which means sunrises and sunsets are truly magical. Getting to the Philippines To enter the Philippines, the two main airports are Manila and Cebu. For those coming from afar, it is easy to transfer through Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong and Singapore.
Learn to Dive in the Bahamas The Bahamas’ Highlights Divers tend to head to the Bahamas in the hopes they will spot sharks. Tiger Bay is famous for encounters with Tiger Sharks while hammerheads are often spotted at Bimini. There are a variety of sharks that can be spotted in the Bahamas. Many dive operators feed the sharks, if you’re against this be sure to check with some of the smaller dive shops who do not feed. Goliath and Nassau Groupers, eagle rays and the Queen Conch are common to spot on dives. Known for its colourful reefs, dive sites make prime photographing spots. Diving in the Bahamas is accessible to everyone making it a good place to learn but also dive no matter your level. Boasting some of the most beautiful beaches, post-dive chilling will always be well spent. Above water explore over 2,000 rocks and cays, and 700 islands. Snorkel with pigs and dolphins, try out different water sports, and tan underneath the Carribean sun. There are plenty of stunning wrecks for all levels. When is the best time to go diving in the Bahamas? The Bahamas are a year-round diving destination. May to July is known as the best time to spot Tiger sharks and March to June for Oceanic Whitetips. October to June offers the best weather and visibility. The summer months can have hurricanes which damages the coral and reduces visibility. The March of the Spiny Lobster occurs in late October or early November when heavy rains cause the lobsters to leave their homes and march in single file to more settled water. The lobsters cover the rear section preventing the lobster in front from getting attacked. Water Temperature: The water temperature is between 26°C and 31°C year round which makes diving without a wetsuit feasible. Currents: Mild to strong currents Visibility: Between 25 and 30 meters year-round. The Bahamas’ best dive sites Tiger Beach The dive at Tiger Beach is world-famous. People fly from all over the world for a chance to see Tiger Sharks in their natural habitat. It’s a shallow dive of 10 meters and you will spend most of the time sitting on the sandy bottom. Watching as a professional feeds the majestic tiger sharks and other shark species. Runway Wall, Nassau Runway Wall is famous for its resident reef sharks. The reef sharks are quite tame and give you the opportunity to view them in their natural habitat. James Bond Wreck, Nassau James Bond made Nassau famous. Divers can explore a bit of the film-set including the Vulcan Bomber from the film Thunderball and the Tears of Allah shipwreck from Never Say Never Again. Found in as little as 12 meters of water, the dive offers healthy coral and a variety of marine life. About the country Famous for their white sandy beaches and crystal blue water, the Bahamas encompasses 700 islands of which 30 are inhabited. With many all-inclusive hotels, tourists flock there in their numbers to explore its beauty. It is a bird watchers paradise with over 370 species of birds to spot. Exuma is world renowned as you can swim with pigs in the crystal blue waters. Getting to the Bahamas The Bahamas are a convenient 40 minute plane ride from most Florida airports. To travel between islands, it is best done by plane. There are cheap and affordable tickets if booked in advance. There are over 20 international airports across the Bahamas’ Islands, Lynden Pindling located in Nassau is the largest. The best routes are via the US, Canada or the UK. The Bahamas’ are a popular cruise ship destination with ports located throughout the islands. Once you’re on an island, the best way to get around is to rent a car. There are also local buses, check out the schedule at your local stop. Taxis are available but discuss the price of the ride before you get in, most routes have set prices.
Learn to Dive in Croatia Croatia’s Highlights Known for its great visibility, Croatia is one of Europe’s top diving destinations. Located on the Adriatic Sea, there’s both saltwater and freshwater diving in Croatia. If you want to try river diving, head to Kupa, Dobra or Mreznica. Investigate a truly beautiful landscape with unique fauna. Wreck diving is popular with ships from the Croatia War of Independence and other world wars. The region around Istria and Vis are perfect to explore Croatia’s wrecks. Also, there’s even a 2000 year old roman warship to uncover or a warship dating back to WWII. In addition, cave diving is extremely popular. There are numerous caves, canyons, tunnels and swim-throughs to explore. Croatia has something for every level of diver. There are some interesting recreation and technical dive sites suitable for more experienced divers. In terms of marine life, the many caves provide ample opportunity to look for crustaceans from lobster to hermit crab. Also, there are fish, octopus, nudibranch, and eels to spot. When is the best time to go diving in Croatia? In some parts of Croatia, it is possible to dive year-round. The best time of year to go diving is between May and October. September and October tend to be the quietest after the crowded summer months. Water Temperature: During the summer months, the water is between 22°C and 26°C. In addition, in the winter, the water drops between 17°C to 19°C. Currents: None to mild. Visibility: The visibility in Croatia is considered excellent and usually ranges between 20 and 40 meters. Croatia’s best dive sites Bol, Brač Island Friendly dolphins that frequent this site are known to play with scuba divers. On most days, divers are able to play with these friendly creatures as they swim around and dance. Tomislav, Lokrum Island On the coast of Dubrovnik, 10 minutes’ from shore lies Lokrum island. The SS Tomislav is located at a depth of 40 meters. The wreck is intact and divers can enter the wreck and swim around the outside. Also, it’s home to dogfish, tuna, lobsters and eels. Tunnel of Prvić, Prvić Underneath the island of Prvić, starting at 18 meters lies a 25 meter long tunnel with the exit at 8 meters. At the exit of the tunnel, there’s a stunning wall with gorgonians, sponges, lobsters, groupers and other fish. About the country Croatia has a rich history. Visit one of the oldest forts in the world in Dubrovnik. Explore its many towns along the coastline. In Pula, the world’s 6th largest Roman amphitheatre lies. Likewise, walk through Istria to see medieval towns and beautiful old buildings. In addition, it is said that the island of Korcula was the birthplace of Marco Polo. Moreover, it’s possible to visit his house. Also, nature lovers will be glad to know that over 10% of Croatia is protected with 11 nature parks, 8 national parks and 2 nature reserves. In addition, Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the country’s 10 UNESCO world heritage sites and features stunning waterfalls. Finally, some say that Zadar has the world’s best sunsets. Getting to Croatia Croatia is easily accessible from most major European countries. It has 5 international airports. Whereas, to access Croatia from America or Asia, you will most likely need to transfer to another European destination like London, Paris or Frankfurt. Getting around Croatia is best done by car. In fact, there are car ferries which make transferring from the mainland to the islands possible with the car. Public buses are also a great way to get around.
Learn to Dive in Poland Poland’s Highlights The Baltic Sea is world-famous for the wrecks that lie in its midst. Many wrecks lie at 20 to 30 meters making them accessible to recreational divers. Due to the cold water temperatures and low salinity of the water, wrecks are usually well preserved. As a result of new sonar technology new wrecks are constantly being found. Polish people love diving and travel the world to dive. They have easy access to the Red Sea with it being the holiday destination of choice for most. Some dive schools offer yearly dive holiday packages around Poland and to the Red Sea. This can save money and be fun as you are surrounded by like-minded people. Poland has the second-highest number of lakes and reservoirs in Europe behind Finland. This means there are many fresh-water diving options in Poland. Most dive centers in central Poland use these lakes or reservoirs to conduct training courses. In the winter months, ice diving is popular. In addition, Poland has one of the deepest diving pools in the world at a depth of 45.5 meters. It’s designed as a training pool for recreational scuba and freedivers to use. Accessible all year-round this pool is a great asset to the Polish diving community. When is the best time to go diving in Poland? The best time of year to dive is from March to October as these months are warmer with better visibility. Ice diving can be done during the winter months. Water Temperature: Water temperature is about 18°C to 20°C in the summer. Due to a thermocline, the water below 5 or 6 meters drops to 3°C or 4°C. During the winter months, water can be between 1°C and 3°C. Currents: None to strong. Visibility: Between 5 to 20 meters in the Baltic Sea. In pools, lakes and reservoirs it ranges greatly from 1 to 10 meters. Poland’s best dive sites Groźny, Baltic Sea At a depth of 18.5 meters lies Groźny. Built by the Soviets as a warship, she was deliberately sunk to create a military divers training site. The wreck is in great condition. Interested divers can swim into the engine room and have a look around. Lake Siecino, Pomerania Poland has many famous lakes to dive in. Lake Siecino is famous because it has an obstacle course, beautiful sunken trees and a wreck. In the summer, visibility is only 3 – 5 meters but in the winter can go up to 10 meters. Lake Trześniowskie Lake Trześniowskie is one of the top rated lake dives in Poland. Water visibility is around 5 meters and the lake is home to trout, ropes and perch. Eels, pike and bream can also be found. The bottom of the dive site features beautiful underwater vegetation. About the country A country with an interesting and complicated history, Poland is worth a visit. During WWII, Warsaw was completely destroyed. The entire city had to be rebuilt. The Old Town of Warsaw is based on the painting by Bernardo Bellotto. The country has over 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Also, it is home to the world’s largest castle. The Castle of Teutonic Order in Malbork is a must-visit. Around Poland, you will find enchanting medieval architecture including castles and buildings. Mushroom foraging is a popular activity. During the right seasons, you will find the forests and hillsides littered with people. Getting to Poland Most tourists will arrive in Krakow, Warsaw or Gdansk. Direct flights are available from most major European destinations. Domestic flights are available. To get around Poland, consider taking public trains and buses or renting a car. Taking trains is often preferred as it is convenient and some of the bigger cities suffer from a lack of parking.
Learn to Dive in Greece Greece’s Highlights Greece is a dream holiday destination for most people. Add diving into the mix and you have yourself the perfect holiday. Above water, Greece is famous for it’s beautiful landscapes, stunning white and blue buildings and delicious food. It has one of the longest coastlines in Europe. A combination of good visibility, warm water and calm conditions, make Greece an ideal diving destination. For those more experienced divers, Greece is famous for wreck and cave diving. Greece tends to have the greatest biodiversity in the Mediterranean and during the summer months turtles, sharks and other marine life can be spotted. Greece is diverse and widespread. Mykonos is famous as a party island but below the surface it’s a great place to learn how to dive. Crete features a series of caves that are interesting to explore. Santorini is not only a sunset destination but has volcanic formations making an interesting topography for the dive site. When is the best time to go diving in Greece? Diving in Greece is possible throughout the year. Summer offers the warmest water temperatures between April and October. Water Temperature: In summer, the water ranges from 20°C to 24°C. In winter, the water is between 13°C and 16°C. Currents: None to mild Visibility: Between 20 and 30 meters Greece’s best dive sites Messerschmitt 109 Wreck, Crete Quite an unusual wreck, this German fighter plane dating back to WWII lies at 24 meters. Be sure to find the machine gun that is still intact. The tail is broken but the main body and wings are in good shape. HMHS Britannic, Kea The HMHS Britannic is one of the most famous wrecks in the world. It is the sister ship of the Titanic and was made as a hospital ship for WWI. The wreck is located at a depth of 122 meters making it only accessible to highly trained tec divers. Nea Kameni, Santorini Santorini is a volcanic island with a range of scuba diving spots. Nea Kameni was formed by an ancient volcanic eruption and the site features lava formations and interesting topography. The wreck of the Santa Maria, a 34 meter passenger ship, can be found resting here. It lies at 18 meters and can be accessed by all levels of diver. About the country Greece features over 2,000 islands but only 170 are inhabited. With 18 UNESCO world heritage sites which include the Acropolis in Athens and the Archaeological Site of Olympia. Greece is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is one of the sunniest countries in the world with over 300 days of sun. This means that you’ll most likely be under the sun on your holiday. Greek cuisine is fresh and delicious and they serve some of the best seafood in the world. For those of you that love turtles, head to Marathonisi. Nicknamed Turtle Island, lying next to Zakynthos, this tiny island is where loggerhead turtles come to nest. It is a marine protected area but it’s possible to dive there. Getting to Greece Most people will fly into Athens and transfer to other islands by plane, ferry or else. Some of the bigger islands like Corfu and Santorini have their own airports. If you want to travel around Greece, consider renting a car. Car ferries can easily transport you from island to island.
Learn to Dive in Honduras Honduras’ Highlights There are three main islands to dive in the Bay Islands off the coast of mainland Honduras named Utila, Roatan and Guanaja. Reefs located on this island belong to the Mesoamerican Barrier, the second largest reef system in the world. Honduras is now considered to be one of the best places in the world to learn how to dive. The three Bay Islands each have their own unique characters. Utila has the best diving of the three and is cheaper than Roatan. Utila is about 15 km long and the smallest of the three islands. It does have a backpacker vibe and offers diving, bars and plenty of them. Roatan is more developed and ideal for families or honeymooners. Roatan offers more comfort and luxury options. Both islands have an array of centers offering recreational and technical courses. Roatan has more to do on it than Utila, being larger and more developed. Guanaja is a resort island with more up-market accommodation options. It offers peace and seclusion, with little on the islands aside from the luxury resorts. The Bay Islands are popular among divers for the sheer diversity of marine life including different species of sharks, rays, eels and crustaceans. The soft and hard coral are truly mesmerizing. There are wrecks, swim-throughs and caves to explore. Both recreational and technical diving are offered. When is the best time to go diving in Honduras? The Bay Islands are best visited during April and May when whale sharks visit the surrounding waters. It is possible to dive in the Bay Islands all year round but avoiding the rainy and hurricane season will provide the best conditions. January and February are the rainy months when visibility is at its lowest. Hurricane season is between June and October. Water Temperature: It is easy to dive in Honduras in a skin suit or 3mm suit. The water is 25°C in winter and 29°C in summer. Currents: None to medium Visibility: 30 to 45 meters all year-round Honduras’ best dive sites Black Hills, Utila A coral encrusted seamount is the home to schools of fish and nurse sharks. The seamount starts at a depth of 50 meters and rises to 10 meters. A Utila favourite. Mary’s Place, Roatan If you come to the Bay Islands, if you can only do one dive, do Mary’s Place. Featuring narrow canyons covered in sea fans and black coral trees. The coral is alive with marine life which makes for a spectacular dive. El Aguila Wreck, Roatan A fascinating wreck teeming with life from grouper, parrotfish, seahorses and crustaceans. The walls of the wreck are covered in corals and anemones, perfect home for marine life. About the country Honduras is an interesting country to visit. Located in Central America, Honduras is famous for having a high crime and murder rate. The Bay Islands, located off the mainland, have a very different reputation. Made famous as a place to dive and learn how to scuba dive. Those visiting Honduras, may want to visit Copan. Home to Ancient Mayan ruins that are less visited than others in the region but are in great condition. Some of the ruins date back to before 1000 B.C. The Comayagua Cathedral is a cultural highlight with the oldest clock on the continent. Those that love nature will enjoy visiting Honduras. A huge part of the country is made up of forests to explore. Honduras is a bird-watchers paradise and the Scarlet Macaw is the national bird. Getting to Honduras Getting to the Bay Island’s is not the easiest. The main airport is in Tegucigalpa with international flights to South, Central, and North America. From the airport, you can take a bus or car to Tela or La Ceiba where you can transfer to the ferry for either Utila or Roatan. For those wanting to head directly to Roatan, there is an international airport. By land, you can travel by bus or car from neighboring Nicaragua, El Salvador and Guatemala.
Learn to Dive in Malaysia Malaysia’s Highlights Located in the Coral Triangle, marine biodiversity is huge in Malaysia. Split into two main parts, Borneo and peninsular Malaysia, both contain many fantastic places to dive. Sipadan is considered to be one of the best areas to dive in the world and is located on Borneo. Layang Layang in Borneo is known as one of the only places where you can dive with hundreds of Hammerhead sharks on a single dive. Muck diving is famous on Mabul Island. On the Malaysian side, beautiful islands like the Perhentians Islands, Redeang Island, Tioman Island and Langkawi Island all have great diving. Above water, you’ll enjoy beautiful beaches and palm trees before diving under to see a huge diversity of marine life and vibrant coral. The marine life in Malaysia is diverse with manta rays, sharks, turtles and more to be discovered. When is the best time to go diving in Malaysia? You can dive in Malaysia at any time of year. In some parts, monsoons cause some dive sites to close and it may not be possible to dive. Malaysian Peninsula The two sides of the Malaysian Peninsula get hit by monsoons at different times. Dry season on the East coast is from April to October. The rainy season runs from November to March. In contrast, the West Coast is dry from November to April and the rainy season is from September to November with light showers. Borneo It is possible to dive on Borneo all year-round. Water Temperature: 26°C to 30°C all year-round. Currents: Depends on the location. From none to strong. Borneo tends to have stronger currents than the Malaysian peninsula. Visibility: Visibility can range from 5 to 50 meters depending on the site and conditions. Malaysia’s best dive sites Barracuda Point, Sipadan, Borneo Labelled as one of the top 10 best dive sites in the world, Barracuda Point is one of the only dives in the world where you drop down into a vortex of barracuda. As you drop, there may be a strong current which is what brings food to the site and attracts the barracuda. This dive site is accessible all year-round but between March to July are when conditions are calmest and visibility at its highest. Crack Reef, Layang Layang Located in Sabah with some of the best coral on the planet. What makes this dive site remarkable is the chance to spot whale sharks and hammerheads at the right time of year. Starting with a beautiful coral garden with a wall that gradually drops down, you may spot a leopard shark. Check the gorgonians for pygmy seahorses. Amazing Grace, Tenggol Island Tenggol Island is world renowned for its beautiful and healthy coral. Amazing Grace is located on the second largest island of the Tenggol group. There can be quite a strong current but with this current comes trevallies, batfish, shovel-nose sharks and rays. About the country Malaysia is a diverse country with a mixed heritage. Malays, Chinese and Indians are the three main races in the country. The three live in harmony and there is a multicultural feeling in Kuala Lumpur and around Malaysia. It has beaches, historical landmarks, cultural attractions, tasty food, mountains and forests. Malaysia has something to offer every type of traveller. It’s neighbors include: Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei and Thailand. For the best food experiences, head to Penang otherwise known as Georgetown. The influence from China, India and Malaysia provide a culinary dream. Street food is extremely popular and you’ll be glad to know it’s completely normal to eat 5 times a day. Getting to Malaysia Getting to Malaysia from Europe, Asia and Australia is relatively easy. There are many direct flights between major European, Asian and Australian destinations and Malaysia. To visit Borneo, check connections in Hong Kong and Singapore which operate direct flights to Kota Kinabalu. Once in the country, it’s easy to get around by using trains, buses, ferries and cars.
Learn to Dive in Fiji Fiji’s Highlights Fiji is known for its beautiful soft coral, colorful hard corals and marine life. The coral is healthy and vibrant making it the perfect home for marine life. Visibility is exquisite with crystal-clear blue water. With over 400 types of coral to spot and 1,500 species of fish. You’re sure to spot something new on every dive. Fiji has thousands of dive sites. Some still yet to be uncovered. The water conditions are generally quite calm in Fiji resulting in incredible visibility. The months from July to September can sometimes have rougher sea conditions. Drift diving is popular and strong currents are common. The Shark Reef Marine Reserve is one of the best places in the world to dive with sharks. The shark dive at Beqa Lagoon can mean you’ll see up to 8 species of shark in one dive. Both micro and macro marine life can be found here. With incredible visibility, Fiji has perfect conditions for underwater photographers. When is the best time to go diving in Fiji? Anytime, diving is suitable at any time of year. Water is usually clearer during the drier months from June to September. Manta rays can often be spotted between March and May as they come to eat the plankton blooms. November to March is the rainy season but a lot of people prefer these months as the crowds tend to be a little less. Water Temperature: Between 25°C and 30°C all year-round. Currents: None to very strong Visibility: Visibility in Fiji is exquisite ranging from 5 to 40 meters. In winter at some dive sites, visibility can even go above 50 meters. Fiji’s best dive sites Rainbow Reef, Somosomo Strait When you ask people about diving in Fiji, they will be sure to mention Rainbow Reef. Aptly named Rainbow Reef for its colorful coral. From soft and hard, to fan and plated corals, Rainbow Reef has them all. Amongst all the coral lives large pelagic life including sharks, manta rays, and tuna. Ngali Passage, Gau Island Famous for large pelagic life and exciting dives, the Ngali Passage is not for the faint of heart. A memorable and adventurous drift dive. This site is only available 3 hours a day. The current propels you forward, along a sandy road. The walls of the passage are lined with soft and hard coral. The water is filled with barracudas and reef sharks. Beqa Lagoon, Beqa Island One of the most renowned dives in Fiji made famous by the chance to spot sharks. Experienced divers only. Home to over 7 species of sharks including bull and tiger sharks. This dive will be one that stays with you for the rest of your life. About the country Fiji is a group of 330 tropical islands off the coast of New Zealand in the South Pacific. A tropical paradise that dreams are made of. There are two main large islands, which hold the capital, Nadi. Island life is relaxed and chilled. Fijians are extremely welcoming and friendly people by nature. Enjoy spending time conversing about local traditions and customs. You’ll be sure to leave Fiji smiling. Getting to Fiji Getting to Fiji is quite easy from the USA and Australia with easy and direct flights. There are direct flights from airports like LAX and Sydney Airport. Once you arrive in Nadi, you can transfer to other islands by boat or direct flights. Many of the liveaboards depart from Nadi itself.
Learn to Dive in the Galapagos Islands Galapagos Islands’ Highlights Most scuba divers around the world have the Galapagos Islands on their dive bucket list. Located off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands were made famous by Charles Darwin and his life’s work on the origin of species. Wolf and Darwin Island have some of the best diving in the region with a chance to see pelagic life. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected national park, means that the Galapagos Islands make a safe home for marine life. Over 28 species of shark, sea lions, iguanas, sea snakes, sea turtles, mola molas, and penguins can be found here. There are over 400 species of fish and 50 of them are endemic to the Galapagos. Each dive will be full of marine life that you may not encounter in other parts of the world. To get the most out of diving in the Galapagos, book a liveaboard. The best dive sites are often remote and only accessible via liveaboard. Those with limited time will also enjoy the fact that you wake up in your new location rather than wasting daylight hours making the excursion to a new dive site. Diving in the Galapagos can be challenging and some sites are reserved for experienced divers. The conditions can be tough due to cold water, strong currents and poor visibility. When is the best time to go diving in the Galapagos Islands? You can dive all year-round. Although, diving in the Galapagos Islands is usually split into two seasons. The Whale Shark season is during the colder months. It runs from June to November and is the perfect time to spot penguins and mola molas. Manta ray season is during the warmer months from December to May. This is also the best time to spot schools of hammerheads. Water Temperature: Between June and November water temperature is between 16°C and 24°C. The cold-upwellings bring in nutrients to the islands which is why such large marine life congregate here. Between December and May the water tends to be warmer from 21°C to 30°C. Currents: None to extreme Visibility: From December to May between 10 and 30 meters. Between June and November, between 5 and 20 meters. The Galapagos Islands’ best dive sites El Arco, Darwin Island One of the most famous dive sites in the region. You will have the opportunity to dive with hundreds of hammerheads, rays and whale sharks. This site can only be accessed by liveaboard and is considered one of the best dive sites in the world. Shark Point, Wolf Island Wolf Island is another famous island in the Galapagos that is only reachable by liveaboard. Made popular by the chance to spot several different species of sharks in a single dive. Strong currents in the area mean this dive site is reserved for experienced divers. During whale shark season, they are known to congregate there eating plankton. Bartholomew Point, Bartholomew Island A beautiful dive site where you will be able to encounter turtles, sea lions, rays, sharks and rays. The main attraction of this site is the opportunity to dive with penguins as they dart around you in search of food. It’s absolutely mesmerizing to see these playful penguins in the waves. About the country 97% of The Galapagos Islands, off the coast of Ecuador, are a national park. This helps both the land and the sea in this region to be protected. It is geographically located in between 3 ocean currents and strong upwellings means the water is filled with nutrients and leads to the greatest biodiversity of marine life anywhere in the world. About 20% of marine life is endemic to the Galapagos Islands and cannot be found in other parts of the world. Due to a lack of natural predators, animals in the Galapagos both on land and in the water are extremely friendly towards human beings. The Galapagos Islands are just as amazing above water. Most liveaboard providers often arrange land excursions too. Due to their isolation and unique conditions, the Galapagos Islands are home to many endemic species. More than 79% of mammals and 91% of rep...
Learn to Dive in the Maldives The Maldives’ Highlights An archipelago of 1,192 coral islands, the Maldives is so much more than a honeymoon destination. Over 200 of these islands are inhabited and 80 of these are resort islands. World-renowned for their beaches and clear blue water, the Maldives has some of the best diving in the world. With warm water all year-round combined with amazing visibility The majority of dives are drift dives and being comfortable with currents and your buoyancy is important. In some parts there are strong currents which make for interesting drift dives for more experienced divers. The maximum depth limit is 30 meters which means technical and deeper dives are not permitted. Home to over 10 species of dolphins and whales, the waters around the Maldives are full of life. Hammerheads, manta rays, whale sharks, pelagic life and turtles are residents of the Maldives and can be spotted at any time of year. Liveaboards usually run from November to May where the seas are the calmest and visibility is best. Doing a liveaboard will allow you to see some of the more remote dive sites. When is the best time to go diving in the Maldives? Water Temperature: Warm water lovers will enjoy diving in the Maldives as the water temperature is between 26°C and 30°C all year-round. Between January and April, the conditions and visibility are the best. In addition, the rainy season is from May to November where visibility will be less. Currents: None to very strong. Currents can change and be unpredictable, always follow advice and listen to information about current conditions. Visibility: From 15m to 40m depending on the dive site and conditions Maldives’ best dive sites Tiger Shark Point, Fuvahmulah Atoll Aptly named Tiger Shark Point, this dive site gives you the chance to dive with spectacular Tiger Sharks. Diving with these sharks is near guaranteed, regardless of current and conditions. Fotteyo, Vaavu Atoll It’s not possible to visit all of Fotteyo in one dive. It can only be accessed by liveaboard because of its remote location. One of the best dive sites in the Maldives for its diversity of marine life. There’s a chance to spot a variety of sharks, including hammerheads! South Ari Atoll, Maaya Thila Long-reputed as one of the Maldives’ best dive sites. With a beautiful pinnacle that starts at 6 meters and goes as far as 30 meters. Due to strong currents, whitetip reef sharks, stingrays and giant trevally are known to frequent this site. This site makes for an incredible night dive as the sharks and large pelagic fish tend to hunt at night. About the country Made up of over 1,200 islands of which 200 are inhabited and 26 atolls. The Maldives’ are a famous honeymoon destination and tourist haven. Sandy pristine beaches, palm trees and crystal clear blue water are some of the reasons why people love to visit these stunning islands. Resorts in the Maldives are often split into luxury hotel chains and more budget friendly accommodations. If staying on land is more your thing, you can decide between resort islands and a guesthouse on a local island. One of the disadvantages is that there will be less access to dive sites. Getting to the Maldives Male International Airport located in the capital is where most people land. There’s easy and direct access from Dubai and surrounding Asian countries. From Male, most will take boats to the surrounding islands. Seaplanes and speedboats are also available but at a higher cost.
Learn to Dive in Belize Belize’s Highlights Belize has a lot to offer every level of diver. From coral reefs, to the Blue hole, and an abundance of marine life, Belize is scuba diver’s paradise. Rays, sharks and other interesting marine life are known to live in these waters. Excellent visibility combined with calm and warm conditions, make Belize a perfect spot for diving. The coral in Belize is known to be colourful and healthy. Most dives are relatively shallow and accessible to novice divers. Belize is located on the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world. Also, the Belize Barrier Reef is 186 km long and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Which means it’s home to beautiful coral reefs and over 500 species of fish. Whale sharks are known to be spotted between April and June. When is the best time to go diving in Belize? You can dive in Belize at any time of the year due to good visibility and warm waters. If you visit between March and May, you may have the opportunity to dive with whale sharks. Belize has a hurricane season from August to October so plan your trip accordingly. The rainy season runs from June until November when the sea conditions and the lowest visibility. Water Temperature: The water is constantly warm in Belize between 24°C and 27°C all year-round. Currents: None to medium Visibility: Between 20 and 30 meters depending on the site and conditions. Belize’s best dive sites Blue Hole Belize’s most famous dive site is probably the only site that is not full of marine life. The Blue Hole is a giant sinkhole made famous by Jacque Cousteau. It’s 314 meters wide and 135 meters deep. The main attraction of this site is the difference in water colours from the deep dark blue waters to the lighter turquoise in the reefs around. The Blue Hole can be reached on a day trip or liveaboard. Gladden Spit A famous dive site to spot whale sharks during April to June. The whale sharks are calm and playful. They enjoy interacting with divers. A once in a lifetime dive. At the other points of year, the site features a beautiful reef and wall. Hol Chan Marine Reserve An abundance of marine life awaits. This shallow reef has beautiful coral formations which are home to a variety of fish species, eels and groupers. Just outside the reef, there is a coral wall to be explored. Eagle rays and nurse sharks can be spotted during this dive. About the country Belize is a tourist hotspot especially for American tourists with easy and direct access. It has beautiful rainforests to explore, hiking, Mayan temples, and pristine beaches. Caye Caulker is a popular island famous for its pristine sandy beaches, fresh seafood and laid back vibes. Home to over 900 Mayan ruins, some still in great condition and very much worth exploring. Much of Belize is made up of jungle making it the perfect destination to go hiking. There are also a lot of mesmerising caves to visit with interesting stories. Nature lovers flock to Belize in vast numbers. There are over 500 species of bird making it a true bird watchers’ paradise. Also, from June to August, sea turtles are known to come to land to nest. If you wish to witness this amazing event, be sure to be respectful and keep your distance to not disturb the turtles. Getting to Belize The Philip Goldson International Airport has direct links with North and South America. There are direct flights from numerous major American cities. Once you arrive, domestic flights, buses or taxis are available. If you plan to visit Caye Caulker, there are either domestic flights or head to the water taxi terminal in Belize City. Belize is also a popular cruise ship destination. Belize is also easily accessible via land from Mexico or Guatemala.
Learn to Dive in French Polynesia French Polynesia’s Highlights Whilst it remains remote and difficult to get to, French Polynesia has some of the best diving in the world. It has an incredible array of marine diversity. Stunning coral and a host of marine life await. From sharks to wrasses’, French Polynesia should be on any diver’s bucket list. Due to its remote nature, the reefs surrounding French Polynesia are luscious and teeming with life. Comprising 118 islands and atolls, there are a variety of dives including drift and wreck dives. Manta rays, whale sharks and other large pelagic life can be spotted in French Polynesia. When is the best time to go diving in French Polynesia? You can dive at any time of year. The dry season is from May to October and tends to be the busiest. The rainy season is from November to April and visibility is slightly diminished. The poorer visibility is a result of plankton which brings in large marine life that feast on the plankton. Water Temperature: 26°C to 30°C all year-round. Currents: None to very strong Visibility: Around 30 meters French Polynesia’s best dive sites Ray’s Corridor Drift During this fast-paced dive, you can drift from 2.5 to 3.5km. The crystal clear waters are home to remarkable marine life. Take in as you drift past eagle rays and a range of sharks. Not for the faint-hearted. Tiki Point One of French Polynesia’s most famous dive sites is Tiki Point. Made famous for the sheer amount of marine life available to spot. Due to the sheer amount of fish that call the Tiki Point home, predators come from all over to hunt at this spot. Sharks, dolphins and whales are known to be seen. Garuae Pass, Fakarava During this dive, you’re nearly guaranteed to see a wall of reef sharks. Lying amongst them, you may be able to spot a gray shark, hammerhead shark or manta ray. For fish lovers, spot barracudas, tunas and napoleons. The current is strong and this site is reserved for experienced divers. About the country You can choose whether you would prefer to do a liveaboard or dive resort. If you’re planning to dive on multiple islands, consider a dive package. Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea are some of the most famous of the 118 islands that make up French Polynesia. Getting to French Polynesia Fly to Faa’a International Airport in Tahiti. From Papeete, catch a ferry to your island of choice. French Polynesia is easily accessible by California and only an 8 hour plane ride. From Europe, the journey is long, ranging from 20 to 24 hours. Australia and New Zealand are about a 9 hour plane ride.
Learn to Dive in Japan Japan’s Highlights When you think about Japan, diving may not come to mind immediately but it offers a variety of dives for all levels of diver. Cave, drift and ice diving are extremely popular. Wreck divers will enjoy uncovering the wrecks from WWII. Dive sites are spread throughout the whole country and cannot be done all in one trip. Ice diving is popular in Hokkaido’s Shiretoko Peninsula. Some marine life can only be found here and not in other parts of Japan. Also, Okinawa is famous for its coral with over 400 species to spot. Large pelagic species like tuna, hammerheads and whale sharks are known to congregate there. Japan’s waters are home to 15% of the 230,000 marine species found on the whole planet. This is said to be due to the convergence of currents, different topographies, water temperatures and depths. On the Northeastern coast of Japan, hot and cold water currents converge and bring nutrient rich water into Japan. The Kuroshio Current brings warm water while the Oyashio Current brings cold-water species. When is the best time to go diving in Japan? You can dive in Japan at any time of year. Okinawa has suitable conditions at any time of year although from July to October are known for tropical storms and typhoons. Hokkaido is famous for ice diving but requires drysuits. Honshu Island is best during summer when you can dive in a wetsuit but others do enjoy diving there in winter with a drysuit. March to May and September to November tend to have the driest and warmest weather. Water Temperature: Depends on the location. Currents: None to strong Visibility: Depends on the dive site and conditions. It can go up to 50 meters. Japan’s best dive sites Shishihama, Osezaki The dive site closest to Mount Fuji is famous for its macro diving. Due to its volcanic terrain, it makes the perfect environment for marine life. Nudis, frogfish and crabs can all be found here. Manta Scramble, Ishigaki Island, Okinawa Ishigaki Island is one of the best places in the world to dive with manta rays. The best time to visit is from April to November where manta rays visit in numbers to the cleaning stations. Watch the manta rays hover as the cleaner fish swim around picking off the dead skin. Tuna Hole, Mukojima Tuna Hole makes for an interesting dive. You drop down and wedge yourself into a rock fissure as resident sharks swim overhead. Schools of Tuna are known to swim above you giving the dive site its name. About the country Japan is made up of over 6,000 islands. It has a rich history and customs. It’s a mountainous country ideal for hikers. With beautiful limestone caves, forests, gorges, waterfalls and more to explore. Japan is one of the world’s technological centers. There’s over 5 million vending machines in the country selling everything from ramen to ice coffee. Food is a central part of life for most Japanese. While sushi has become a high-end item in most countries around the world, it is so popular that it’s considered a street food in Japan. Getting to Japan Japan has several international airports. Travel within Japan can be done via domestic flight, trains or buses. Depending on where you want to dive, select the airport closest to the dive area. Public transport in Japan is extensive with metros and buses connecting major cities.
Learn to Dive in Costa Rica Costa Rica’s Highlights A shark lover’s galore, those that love shark diving should add Costa Rica to their list. Whether you want to dive from the shore or liveaboard largely depends on where you want to dive. The best diving in Costa Rica is done at the Muriciélago islands, Catalinas Islands, Cocos Islands and Caño Island. Most dive sites on the Pacific Coast can be accessed on a day-trip. The country’s Eastern coast is less developed which makes for some interesting diving. Sighting schools of rays such as manta rays and eagle rays are common throughout the country. Humpback whales migrate through Costa Rica from January to March and June to July. Diving with them is prohibited but their whale song can be heard while diving. The Cocos Islands are world renowned for their shark dives and deserve their reputation. Lucky divers are able to spot silky, Galapagos, and white-tip reef sharks all within one dive. The Cocos islands can only be accessed via liveaboard with a gruelling 36 hour journey and are reserved for more experienced divers. The cooler currents brought in during the rainy season leads to an abundance of marine life, in particular, sharks. The nutrients in the water attract all types of sharks from Bull Sharks to Hammerheads. When is the best time to go diving in Costa Rica? Scuba diving is a year-round activity in Costa Rica. The country has two main seasons. The dry season runs from December to April and the wet season from May to November. Many divers prefer to dive in the wet season as it’s not constantly raining and the rain brings in migratory pelagic species along the Pacific coast. Dive sites also tend to be less crowded. The Southern Caribbean Coast is best visited between August to December. A lack of wind means general visibility tends to be better. Water Temperature: On the Pacific Coast and Caribbean the water temperature is between 26°C and 29°C all year-round. Around the Cocos Islands, the dry season has water between 26°C and 27°C while the dry season can drop to 21°C. Currents: None to very strong Visibility: On the Pacific and Caribbean Coasts, visibility is between 15 and 30 meters. Around the Cocos Islands, visibility is between 10 and 15 meters. Costa Rica’s best dive sites Cocos Islands Marine Reserve A shark lover’s paradise, the Cocos Islands can only be reached by liveaboard and it takes 36 hours. A UNESCO world heritage site and walls of hammerheads are famous here. Those that embark on this adventure, will be sure to have dives they remember for the rest of their lives. Big Scare, Bat Islands The Big Scare is appropriately named as it features bull sharks up to 10 meters long. Strong currents and depths greater than 30 meters make this dive only appropriate for experienced divers. A marine protected area located about a 50 minute boat ride from the mainland. Divers can also spot schools of devil rays and manta rays. Catalina Islands Located along the Pacific Coast, this volcanic terrain has interesting topography including caves, arches and swim-throughs, all covered in bright coral. Home to marine life including sharks, rays, and turtles. Half-day tours are usually available. About the country ‘Pura vida’ meaning pure life is more than just a common greeting and more the country’s philosophy. Over 99% of its energy is renewable, which is one of the only countries in the world to do so. When swimming in the country, be careful as rip-tides are extremely common. Roughly 25% of the country’s land mass is made up of national parks and nature reserves. Home to 5% of the world’s species, Costa Rica has over 500,000 species of wildlife. Anyone that loves animals and marine life will enjoy spending time in this beautiful country. Getting to Costa Rica Costa Rica is easily accessible from the USA with many direct flights heading to Juan Santamaria International Airport and Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport. There are some direct flights from Europe.
Learn to Dive in Palau Palau’s Highlights Located in the coral triangle, Palau has over 700 species of hard and soft coral. It features WWII wrecks, adventurous drift dives, caves and caverns. The Japanese and Americans fought many battles in these waters so divers can now immerse themselves and uncover the history beneath. Palau was one of the Japanese safe-holds during the war including fighter planes and has some truly interesting wrecks to explore. Diving in Palau gives you the chance to dive with large pelagic marine animals like swordfish, sharks and manta rays. Three major currents converge in the water around Palau presenting conditions that aid with biodiversity. Drift dives are extremely common and the use of reef hooks is popular. Use a hook to cling onto dead parts of coral. This will allow you to remain in place as you watch large pelagic life swim past. Some dive sites are restricted to experienced divers due to strong currents. Liveaboards give you the greatest chance of visiting the most sites but dive resorts and centers are also plentiful. When is the best time to go diving in Palau? Diving in Palau is possible at any time of year. The dry season from October to May has the calmest conditions and best visibility. Water Temperature: The water is constantly warm ranging from 27°C to 30°C all year-round. Currents: None to very strong Visibility: Between 20 to 30 meters usually and it can reach up to 50 meters. Palau’s best dive sites Blue Corner If you’re thinking about going to Palau for diving, you’re most likely going for the opportunity to go to Blue Corner. Palau’s most famous dive site is a coral ridge that lies between 15 and 20 meters, but extends to the deep. Use a reef hook to remain in place as you watch big schools of fish swim below including snappers, Jacks, barracuda, tuna and triggerfish. There are plenty of sharks and mantas, too! Currents can change quickly and without warning. When there is no current even inexperienced divers will enjoy this coral ridge. Chandelier Caves A short swim through a tunnel leads to a set of 5 limestone caves connected by a series of tunnels that lie at a maximum depth of 11 meters. Divers need torches to view the wondrous stalactites and stalagmites, which sparkle giving the dive site its name. Divers can surface in several of these caves to enjoy the view. The Big Drop Off True to its name, The Big Drop Off is a wall dive that drops to 285 meters. Considered as one of the world’s best wall dives. An abundance of coral, tropical fish and sharks call it their home. It’s a one-way drift dive sure to show you something different each time. About the country Palau is made up of over 250 islands. It was the first country to declare all its waters a marine reserve. It boasts the best biodiversity and coral in Micronesia. Bird-watching is also extremely popular. During WWII, Palau was occupied by Japan. In 1944, the Battle of Peleliu saw the US take back Palau from Japan. Life in Palau is serene. Beautiful beaches, coastal walks, and exquisite kayak rides await avid travelers. Kayaking is the perfect way to explore the waters around Palau. Mangrove forests, beaches, lakes and saltwater networks are fascinating to uncover. Getting to Palau Palau is remote and difficult to access. To get to Palau from the US, China or Japan most flights stop in Guam on their way to Palau. Those living in Europe, Asia and Australia can transfer through Manila or Incheon which have direct flights. Car is the easiest way to get around Palau.
Learn to Dive in Algeria Algeria’s Highlights While Algeria is not a tourist destination, it does offer a variety of dive sites along its coastline. With cuttlefish, sharks, groupers and other marine life to uncover, it proves to be an interesting place to scuba dive. There are only a few centers and dive sites are empty. When is the best time to go diving in Algeria? The best time is just before summer between February and July. Water Temperature: From 14°C to 28°C depending on the time of year. Getting to Algeria There are a few major airlines that have flights to Algeria. The main airport is Algiers Houari Boumediene Airport.
Learn to Dive in the Cayman Islands The Cayman Islands’ Highlights The Cayman Islands are one of the places scuba diving became popular and due to conservation efforts much of the coral remains beautiful and alive. The Cayman Islands are made up of three islands: Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Each island provides a different diving experience. Dives are either done from boats or the shore, but the good news is the boat ride to most dive sites is usually short at around 10 minutes. If you want to dive at all three islands, a liveaboard is the best option. During the night, the boat will travel to its next location, greatly reducing travel time. Alternatively, pick an island and resort that will be well suited to your taste. Crystal-clear blue water and great visibility are some of the key features of diving in the Cayman Islands. The dive sites are usually deep walls. Also, there are a few interesting wrecks to explore. In addition, lionfish are considered an invasive species and can be hunted on nearly every dive. When is the best time to go diving in the Cayman Islands? Diving is possible all year-round. December to April tend to be the busiest. From June to October is hurricane season. Water Temperature: The average water temperature is between 25°C and 30°C. Currents: None to medium Visibility: Between 20 to 30 meters is an average day in the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Islands’ best dive sites USS Kittiwake, Grand Cayman The boat was stripped and purposefully sunk in 2011. It’s over 77 meters long, lying at a maximum depth of 21 meters. The ship has over 5 levels and even beginner divers can enjoy the wreck. The pathways have been cleared for penetration of the wreck at multiple points. Hanging Gardens of Babylon, Grand Cayman A mighty name for a mighty dive site. Located on Grand Cayman, this dive site is famous for its black coral, barrel sponges and purple sea fans. There are numerous swim-throughs to be explored. Due to its location, this site is usually only accessible via liveaboard. Eagle Ray Roundup, Bloody Bay Wall, Little Cayman Little Cayman’s most famous dive site, this marine reserve has great visibility and an abundance of marine life. This wall descends to over 2000 meters, and the wall at the top is covered in neon-yellow tube sponges, bioluminescent corals and sea fans. Nassau groupers, turtles, eagle rays and other marine life are found along the wall. About the country The Cayman Islands are a British overseas territory that neighbours Cuba and Honduras. There are many water related activities from sailing to jet skiing that can be done in the Cayman Islands. Get the opportunity to try out all water related activities! The islands are filled with many secluded beaches, get off the beaten track, and explore the beaches without the crowds. Be sure to visit the Seven Mile Beach, made famous for its pristine blue water and white sand. Stingray City is one of the most popular attractions in the area, stroke and feed stingrays as they swim past. Getting to the Cayman Islands Flying from Miami takes a little over an hour making it easily accessible to Americans. It’s only a 70 minute plane ride. There are direct flights to Owen Roberts International Airport on Grand Cayman from the US, Canada and other parts of the Caribbean. Grand Cayman is also a popular cruise ship destination with many operators spending one or two days on the island. British Airways also operates direct flights from London several times per week. If you wish to visit Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, inter-island flights are available. To get around the islands, consider renting a car or bike.
Learn to Dive in Andorra Andorra’s Highlights Andorra is a small country in the Pyrenees mountains. You wouldn’t necessarily think of scuba diving if you think of Andorra but they do have some interesting ice diving spots. Despite being completely landlocked, it contains several high-altitude lakes, perfect for lake diving. In Vallnord, you can ski down to a frozen lake where you can jump into the water and go diving. When is the best time to go diving in Andorra? You can dive in Andorra at any time of year but it’s most popular during winter for ice diving. Getting to Andorra Andorra does not have an international airport. The closest airports are located in Spain and France, with coach or minibus services to Andorra.
Learn to Dive in Angola Angola’s Highlights Scuba diving is still relatively new in Angola. Most divers start in Luanda with trips up and down the coast. Angola’s marine life is vibrant without the busy dive sites. Divers can even spot rays, mola molas and sharks. When is the best time to go diving in Angola? The best time of year to visit Angola is during the cooler and dryer months from June to September. Water Temperature: Between 26°C and 31°C. Getting to Angola Most people visiting Angola will transfer through Ethiopia. There are several indirect ways to get to Angola from Europe.
Learn to Dive in Bonaire Bonaire’s Highlights One of Bonaire’s main attractions is that the majority of dive sites are located from shore. You have the freedom to rent tanks and a car, driving yourself and buddies to your dive site of choice. You’re able to plan your own dives and do as many as you wish to during daylight hours. You’ll get an introduction on how to preserve the local reef and be a responsible diver by the shop you rent tanks from. Bonaire is surrounded by a marine park and the western side of the island is protected from winds making it ideal for diving. It has been protected for over 35 years, making coral vibrant and marine life abundant. Divers of all levels and experiences will enjoy scuba diving in Bonaire. Day trips to Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited island, make for some interesting boat dives. When is the best time to go diving in Bonaire? Diving in Bonaire can be done at any time of year. January to April is considered the peak tourist season. May to October is the best time to visit as the weather is great but there are less crowds. Water Temperature: Between 25°C and 29°C all year-round. Currents: None to medium Visibility: 30 to 50 meters. Bonaire’s best dive sites 1000 steps To get to this dive site, there is quite an inordinate number of steps, not exactly 1000, but you get the point. It’s a shallow dive featuring a beautiful coral reef. It’s protected with little current making it great for inexperienced divers. Karpata While many of Bonaire’s dive sites have a similar topography. Karpata is something different. The reef drops to 30 meters, featuring beautiful hard and soft coral. Divers have a high chance of spotting turtles. Nukove Featuring stunning soft and hard coral, Nukove is a beautiful dive site to explore. Nurse sharks are known to be sleeping amongst the staghorn coral. Entry is directly from the beach. About the country Bonaire is a unique fusion of Caribbean chill with European vibes. People are very friendly but you will most likely hear locals conversing in Dutch. Kitesurfing is extremely popular in Bonaire. People visiting enjoy other water sports from sailing to paddle boarding. Getting to Bonaire Bonaire is easy to get to from North America, South America and Europe. Bonaire’s airport is Flamingo International Airport. The prevalence of flights depends on the time of year and season. To get around the island, it’s easiest to rent a car or truck.
Learn to Dive in Curaçao Curaçao’s Highlights Curaçao is surrounded by a fringe reef. Crystal-clear blue water, warm water with incredible visibility is what’s expected from diving in Curaçao. It is considered to be one of the best islands in the Caribbean for scuba diving and is worthy of its outstanding reputation. Together with Aruba and Bonaire, it is considered one of the ‘ABC’ islands. In September and October, there is coral spawning which occurs only once a year and makes for an interesting event that divers from all over the world come to see. Spotting dolphins and turtles is common at any time of year. Macro life is abundant making it ideal for underwater photographers. When is the best time to go diving in Curaçao? Diving can be done at any time of year. High season is from December to April when hotels and centers tend to be more crowded and expensive. From May to October, the environment gets a little more relaxed with fewer crowds. The island is hardly ever hit by hurricanes making it a good place to visit during hurricane season. Water Temperature: The water is between 26°C and 29°C all year-round. Currents: None to medium. Visibility: Between 20 and 30 meters. Curaçao’s best dive sites Alice in Wonderland A great site for macro photography, it’s a shallow site that ranges from 10 meters to 30 meters. There’s a high chance of seeing turtles, rays and large schools of bait fish. This site is accessed by the shore. The Mushroom Forest Named after its beautiful coral formations, the Mushroom Forest proves an interesting and picturesque dive. The mushroom-looking coral is healthy and vibrant, making it the perfect home for marine life. Watamalu Another famous dive site in Curaçao, Watamalu is famous as two currents converge at this dive site. The rich water brings different marine life to the area including rays, turtles and triggerfish. Coral formations are abundant with large gorgonians and swim-throughs. About the country Curaçao is a Dutch Caribbean Island. It is located close to the equator which means it’s nice and sunny most of the year-round. The island itself is beautiful with stunning beaches and landscapes. Curaçao’s architecture is vibrant and colourful making it a perfect place to walk around and explore. A complex fusion of different cultures and influences, Curaçao is a country best experienced first-hand. Nature lovers will enjoy the range of activities on offer from hiking, to quad bike adventures. Getting to Curaçao Hato International airport has direct flights to Amsterdam and several locations in the US. The island is 444 km2 and can be accessed by taxi or public transport.
Learn to Dive in Grenada Grenada’s Highlights A wreck lover’s paradise, Grenada features the most stunning wrecks in the Caribbean. Some dive sites feature exhilarating currents making for interesting drift dives. Macro lovers will also enjoy the clear water and variety of marine life. Carriacou, is an island off Grenada’s shore that can be accessed by ferry or place. It’s name means ‘Land of Reefs,’ famous for its virgin reefs with pristine clear water. These healthy reefs are home to nurse sharks, rays, and turtles. When is the best time to go diving in Grenada? Diving can be done at any time of year. Due to its Southern position, Grenada rarely receives hurricanes that affect the rest of the Caribbean. Water Temperature: The water is between 24°C and 30°C at any time of year. Currents: None to strong Visibility: Visibility is great all year-round between 20 and 30 meters. Grenada’s best dive sites Bianca C Shipwreck A famous shipwreck because it sank not once but twice. The wreck features a swimming pool and is teeming with marine life. Due to strong currents and its depth, the wreck is reserved for advanced divers. Bianca C is a 200 meter long ship and was sunk in 1962 after an explosion on board before being towed to her current location. Flamingo Bay Starting at 7 meters and extending down to 30 meters, this site offers an interesting wall and drift diving experience. It’s part of the Molinere Protected Seascape and full of interesting marine animals to spot. Grenada’s Underwater Sculpture Park The first-ever underwater sculpture park was set up in Grenada. A British sculptor, Jason de Caires Tailor, has placed a series of sculptures underwater that are not covered in life. Over time, the sculptures themselves become artificial reefs. About the country Grenada is often referred to as Spice Isle due to its long history of growing spices. Grand Anse is a beautiful, white sandy beach to explore. A large part of the country is covered in rainforest waiting to be explored. Grand Etang National Park has some beautiful waterfalls and is a great place to go hiking. Grenada is home to leatherback turtles who have links to dinosaurs and are part of the largest reptiles on the planet. Getting to Grenada Grenada is accessible from North America, South America and several European destinations. Some flights may stop in St. Lucia before reaching Grenada. Also, many cruise ships that operate in the Caribbean have a stop in St. George’s harbor. Grenada is a relatively small island but the best way to get around is to rent a car.
Learn to Dive in St. Lucia St. Lucia’s Highlights Diving in St. Lucia is an incredible experience. With pristine reefs and a variety of marine life, interesting underwater landscapes and macro life. Wreck dives, wall dives and night dives are popular types of diving in St. Lucia. St. Lucia is a volcanic island and macro lovers will enjoy exploring the underwater world. Both boat and shore dives are available. When is the best time to go diving in St. Lucia? You can dive in St. Lucia at any time of year. The visibility and water temperature are usually good all year-round. Water Temperature: Between 26°C to 29°C all year-round. Currents: None to strong Visibility: 5 to 50 meters St. Lucia’s best dive sites Keyhole Pinnacle A stunning dive site known for its volcanic peaks that come nearly to the surface. Macro lovers will especially enjoy this site as there is always something rare to find. The volcanic peaks are covered in beautiful black and orange gorgonians. Fairyland Aptly named Fairyland after its exquisite coral formations, it’s a dive site out of a dream. Due to strong currents, the water has great clarity and is a popular spot to come for underwater photographers. The reef extends down to 60 meters and is best for advanced divers. Smugglers Cove An interesting and popular dive for novice divers, Smugglers Cove provides an opportunity to spot flying gurnards, lobsters and trumpetfish. The maximum depth is 12 meters making it a great place to practice taking underwater photos. About the country Chocolate is a big part of St. Lucia with them distributing cocoa beans around the world. St. Lucia is a volcanic island with many beautiful areas to be explored. Much of its landscape is covered in lush rainforest. The Piton Mountains are actually considered a World Heritage Site and you can explore them by hiking to the top. The Sulphur Springs are another interesting point of interest. This drive-in volcano is where you can see sulphur spewing. Getting to St. Lucia St. Lucia is easily accessible from North America, Europe and other Caribbean countries. There are direct flights from New York and London. In addition, St. Lucia is a popular cruise ship destination. Ferries are available from Dominica, Martinique and Guadeloupe.
Learn to Dive in Turks and Caicos Turks and Caicos’ Highlights Turks and Caicos is located next to the third largest barrier reef in the world. Located between the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, the Turks and Caicos islands are separated into two groups. It is renowned for stunning wall dives with deep drop-offs into the blue. Most sites are protected from currents offering relaxing dives with great visibility. Between December and May, there is a massive migration of humpback whales and nurse sharks which makes diving during the season exhilarating. While it’s only allowed to snorkel with these wonderful animals, a few divers each year have the chance to dive with these creatures. A variety of sharks can be spotted around these islands including nurse sharks, reef sharks and an occasional hammerhead. When is the best time to go diving in Turks and Caicos? You can dive in Turks and Caicos at any time of year. The main tourist season is between December and April. After that, the island is less crowded and more enjoyable to explore. Water Temperature: In winter, the water is between 23°C and 26°C. In summer, the water is between 28°C and 29°C. Currents: Generally calm conditions with little or no current Visibility: Visibility is usually between 20 and 40 meters. Turks and Caicos’ best dive sites The Aquarium The Aquarium is a famous dive site where you will feel as though you are diving in a real-life aquarium. Large schools of fish swim past in crystal blue water. There’s a high chance of spotting sharks and turtles. Shark Hotel An interesting dive site for shark lovers. Shark Hotel, located in Providenciales, gives you the opportunity to spot reef sharks. The wall starts at 5 meters and extends to over 50 meters covered in stunning hard and soft corals. Amphitheater Located in the Columbus Landfall Marine National Park, Amphitheater is named after the underwater bowl formation found below. The underwater Amphitheater is covered in soft and hard coral, home to a variety of fish and other marine life. About the country Turks and Caicos is made up of 40 islands, 8 of which are inhabited. With an endless coastline, it’s a great place for all types of water sports from jet-skiing to paddle boarding. The islands boast some of the softest and whitest sands on earth. Getting to Turks and Caicos To fly to Turks and Caicos, visitors will fly to the island of Providenciales with an international airport. Flights are available from several North American, Caribbean and European destinations. Cruise ships also visit the island of Grand Turk.
Learn to Dive in the Seychelles The Seychelles’ Highlights Wall dives, drift dives and wreck dives are all common in the Seychelles. One of the best parts of diving in the Seychelles is that it’s common to see turtles on nearly every dive. Sites are usually between 8 and 30 meters making them great for novice divers. The Seychelles features healthy soft and hard coral. Interesting pelagic creatures like sailfish and whale sharks can be spotted on some of the outer islands. Whale sharks migrate through the Seychelles between August and November. They can be spotted on the Southern side of Mahé. Clear blue water, shallow sites and interesting marine life making the Seychelles an awesome diving destination. When is the best time to go diving in the Seychelles? You can dive in the Seychelles at any point of the year. Between October to March and May to September feature strong winds and rougher conditions. As a result, April/May and October/November offer the calmest conditions and best visibility. During these months, the calmer conditions means more remote sites can be reached. Water Temperature: The water is always warm in the Seychelles ranging from 26°C to 29°C. Currents: None to strong Visibility: Usually between 20 and 30 meters The Seychelles’ best dive sites Shark Bank Located close to Mahé, Shark Bank gives divers the opportunity to dive with stingrays, barracudas, reef sharks and whale sharks. The site features massive boulders that are covered in coral. Aladbra Aladbra is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected reserve. Home to beautiful flora and fauna, in addition to, a host of marine life. As this is a protected site, special permission from the Seychelles Island Foundation has to be granted to go diving here. Ennerdale Wreck The Seychelles is world-famous for its wrecks. Ennerdale Wreck is a British oil tanker that sank in 1970. Due to strong currents and the depth of the wreck, this site is for experienced divers with an advanced certification. The wreck can be penetrated at multiple points and there’s the opportunity to spot white-tips and bull sharks. About the country Made up of an archipelago of 115 islands located in the Indian Ocean. The majority of the islands remain inhabited. The Seychelles is famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear blue water and palm trees. The Aldabra Atoll is a world heritage site, protected because of the wildlife that inhabits it. You must receive special permission to visit the second-largest atoll in the world. Its home to the largest giant tortoise population in the world. Getting to the Seychelles Seychelles International Airport is located in Mahé. There are direct flights from Africa, the Middle East and Europe.
Learn to Dive in Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Kitts and Nevis’ Highlights Diving in Saint Kitts and Nevis is characterized by beautiful coral growing on volcanic slopes. You can visit Saint Kitts and Nevis, choosing to either stay in a dive resort or a liveaboard. There are plenty of wrecks, walls and caverns to be explored for all levels of diver. It’s said that over 400 wrecks have sunk in the surrounding waters. When is the best time to go diving in Saint Kitts and Nevis? You can dive in Saint Kitts and Nevis all year-round. From December to May is considered high-season Water Temperature: Between 26°C and 29°C all year-round. Currents: None to medium Visibility: 20 to 30 meters Saint Kitts and Nevis best dive sites MV Talata Wreck The MV Wreck sank in 1989 after a hurricane struck. Located at a depth of 15 meters, this wreck is easily explored by divers of all experience levels. Coral has begun to grow on the ship and an abundance of marine life can be found. MV River Taw This ship sank in 1985 and was broken in half by the 1989 hurricane. It’s at a depth of 12 meters making it ideal for novice divers. Cruise the sand around the wreck to find stingrays or look into crevices for the chance to spot lobsters. Coconut Tree Rocks Starting relatively shallow before descending to 30 meters, Coconut Tree Rocks feature beautiful coral and the chance to spot large schools of fish. Barracudas and eels can also be found here. About the country Saint Kitts and Nevis is the smallest country in the Americas in terms of landmass and population size. It’s a beautiful destination that not many people have been to. Cockleshell Beach is a stunning beach on Saint Kitts that should be visited. Both islands are volcanic and covered with lush tropical rainforests. Adventurous souls can choose to hike Mount Liamuiga, St. Kitts’ highest point with stunning views of the surrounding areas. This is quite a challenging hike and it’s not well marked but the views from the top are well worth the climb. Getting to Saint Kitts and Nevis There are direct flights to Saint Kitts from North America and Europe. To get to Nevis, head to the ferry port and catch a short ferry ride to the island. Getting around the islands can be done on foot or by getting a taxi. Hiring a taxi is not necessary on either island.
Learn to Dive in Dominica Dominica’s Highlights Dominica is a beautiful, small island in the southern Caribbean. Dominica has some of the best diving in the Caribbean because of its location. Most dive sites are walls that start from 10m to around 30m. There are sites for all levels of divers. Most are located very close to shore. Whales are known to migrate through the waters of Dominica. The best time to spot whales is November and May. When is the best time to go diving in Dominica? The best time is between February and May. High season is usually between December and April but Dominica attracts less international tourists than its neighbors. Water Temperature: The average water temperature is between 21°C and 29°C. Currents: None to medium Visibility: Usually between 15 and 30 meters. Dominica’s best dive sites Swiss Cheese Aptly named Swiss Cheese after the huge number of swim-throughs. It’s a shallow site that descends to 16 meters. As you go through the swim-throughs, you will find a number of fish species and other interesting marine life to uncover. Make sure your buoyancy is spot-on before embarking on this underwater obstacle course. Crater’s Edge At this site, the Caribbean meets the Atlantic Ocean, and a huge variety of pelagic creatures like tuna can be spotted. This site can only be explored when conditions are calm and the current is weak. Dangle Bends Pinnacle An incredible dive site with five pinnacles starting from 18m to 30m. The vastness and topography of this dive site is stunning. The site features beautiful barrel sponges that are home to marine life. About the country Dominica is a beautiful volcanic island located in the Lesser Antilles. Its peaks are covered in lush rainforests waiting to be explored. Trek through forest to find hidden rivers, pools and waterfalls. A bird lover’s paradise with many species to discover. Sea turtles also pick some of their beaches to nest and at certain times of year you can witness the sea turtles hatching. Getting to Dominica Getting to Dominica can be done by plane or ferry. From Europe and North America, it’s best to take a flight to one of its neighbors and then take a connecting flight to Dominica. Ferries operate from St. Lucia, Martinique and Guadeloupe and offer an easy way to reach Dominica.
Learn to Dive in India India’s Highlights India is a wonderful place to scuba dive. It has over 8000km of coastlines but diving is usually reserved for a few locations. The reason being, a lot of the reefs have been damaged and lack marine life. With that being said, there are some amazing places in India to scuba dive. The Lakshadweep archipelago is rarely visited but has similar diving conditions to the Maldives. Both Andaman and Nicobar Islands are often visited by Thai liveaboards. Pondicherry located on the eastern coast has coral reefs and amazing marine creatures including the occasional whale shark. Goa has quite a few dive centers and is a great place to learn how to dive. When is the best time to go diving in India? There are parts of India that you can dive at any time of year. Depending on the location, the best time of year to dive varies. Lakshadweep is from May to November while Andaman and Nicobar Islands is from November to April. Goa has the best diving from October to May. Water Temperature: Between 20°C and 30°C depending on the location. Currents: Mild to strong Visibility: It varies depending on location, but usually between 5 and 20 meters. India’s best dive sites Ooh La La, Narcondam, Andamans What a name for a dive site. Ooh La La features beautiful hard and soft coral. It is home to Napoleon wrasses, eagle rays and even whitetip sharks. Dixon’s Pinnacle, Havelock Island, Andamans This dive site features three rock pinnacles that are covered in both hard and soft coral. During this dive, groupers, manta rays and turtles can be spotted. Manta Point, Bangaram, Lakshadweep Islands Considered to be the Maldives of India, this spot features crystal clear water and a vibrant coral reef. Manta rays can be spotted between November and December. About the country India has the second largest population in the world after China. It is divided into 29 states and has 23 official languages. Traveling from state to state, gives travelers an insight into the diverse history and cultures of this unique country. For those that love Yoga, it will be interesting to note that India is both the birthplace of Yoga and Ayurveda. Indian food is the oldest cuisine in the world and differs from state to state. A dish cooked one way, could taste completely different in an alternative state. Food is central to daily life so be sure to sample the local cuisine as you travel. Getting to India Most visitors will fly to India but there are overland borders from Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Bhutan. There are direct flights from Australia, North America, and Europe. Most international flights arrive in Delhi or Mumbai. You can easily get to a different city with a domestic flight.
Learn to Dive in Mauritius Mauritius’ Highlights The best diving is usually done to the Northwest of the island. Sharks can usually be found at Flat Island. Divining in Mauritius is usually done quite close to shore. Both novice and experienced divers will enjoy diving here. There are reefs, wrecks, caves, and more to be explored. The coral is vibrant and healthy which is ideal for underwater photographers. The island is encircled by a barrier reef. Mauritius is ranked as some of the best diving in the world. When is the best time to go diving in Mauritius? Diving in Mauritius is possible at any time of year. The best time to dive is between November and April. The conditions are calm, visibility is at its highest and the water is warm. Water Temperature: Between 22°C and 29°C all year-round. Currents: None to strong Visibility: 30 to 50 meters Mauritius’ best dive sites St. Jacques St. Jacques is one of Mauritius’ most famous sites and drift dives. Due to strong currents and its depth, this site is reserved for advanced divers. The site features beautiful coral walls and an underwater cave. Divers can spot rays, turtles and sharks at this site. Moray Reef A site that’s great for underwater photographers, Moray Reef is a picturesque dive site. The rare and bigmouthed moray eel can be found at this site. Fish species and their juveniles can also be spotted. Hoi Siong No 6 There are a variety of wrecks to be explored in Mauritius. The Hoi Siong No 6 was sunk to create an artificial reef. Barracudas and tunas can be found at this site. The walls of the ship are now teeming with coral and life. About the country The beaches in Mauritius are beautiful. If you stay in a resort, be sure to explore some of your neighboring beaches. Water sports are popular, everything from stand-up paddleboarding to jet skiing is available. Hiking is a popular activity, both Le Pouce and Le Morne Brabant are famous hikes. Getting to Mauritius There are direct flights to Mauritius from Europe and South Africa. Getting around the island is easy. You can choose to rent a car and scooter or take taxis.
Learn to Dive in China China’s Highlights Scuba diving in China is still relatively new and gaining popularity. Most people prefer to learn how to dive in China in various pools and lakes before choosing to go diving in the rest of Southeast Asia. In the Southern part of China, there are some stunning reefs. One of the most interesting points is that you can actually dive the Great Wall of China at some points. Yalong Bay in Hainan is one of the only spots in China where you can try a scuba dive. When is the best time to go diving in China? It depends on the location but usually between August and October. Water Temperature: Water temperature varies by location but ranges between 10°C and 28°C. Currents: Depends on location. Usually none to medium. Visibility: Usually between 5 and 15 meters. China’s best dive sites Ancient Underwater Village, Qiandao Village Dating to over 600 years ago, this Ming Dynasty Village is preserved. Explore an underwater village with pillars and walls that are still intact. It’s possible to dive in this lake at any time of year but May to November boast the best visibility. Yalong Bay, Sanya The depth of this site extends to 18 meters making it ideal for try dives and novice divers. There’s beautiful hot and soft coral waiting to be explored. Underwater Great Wall of China A once in the lifetime dive, get to explore the magnificent Great Wall of China at depth. In 1981, the Chinese Government flooded an area and submerged part of the wall. Visibility is low between 3 and 5 meters so it’s important to carry dive lights and torches. About the country China has the largest population in the world and is also one of the biggest countries in the world. Full of rich and diverse landscapes, China is an incredible country to explore. Chinese cuisine is one of the most popular in the world and changes depending on the region. Getting to China China has several international airports that have direct flights to African, Middle Eastern and European destinations. It is easily accessible from Southeast Asia.
Learn to Dive in Brazil Brazil’s Highlights Brazil is a great diving destination. It has over 7,000 km of coastline with stunning reefs. Fernando de Noronha Islands is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to pelagic life. For macro lovers, spot seahorses, hogfish and nudibranchs. Cave diving, swim-throughs and reef dives are all popular. Diving in Brazil consists of reefs, caves and stunning wrecks. Humpback whales migrate past Brazil from July to November. In Laje de Santos, there are many manta rays to uncover. When is the best time to go diving in Brazil? You can dive in Brazil at any time of year. April to June has the warmest waters and clearest visibility. Water Temperature: Between 23°C to 25°C all year-round Currents: Medium to strong Visibility: Between 10 and 20 meters. Brazil’s best dive sites Florida Wreck At a depth of 33 meters, this steam-powered tug boat is in great condition and covered in sponges and coral. Anchor Ledge, Laje de Santos A popular dive site of San Paulo’s Coast that’s famous for spotting turtles and rays. Anchor Ledge was named after the huge amount of anchors that can be found lying on the bottom. Fernando de Rohonha An archipelago made up of 21 islands, it’s located over 220 km off the coast. There are large pelagics to spot including hammerheads and tuna. Visibility can be over 40 meters. About the country Brazil is famous for Carnival. It’s one of the most bio-diverse countries on the planet with over 4 million species of animals and plants. It is one of the largest producers of coffee and has been for over 150 years. Brazil has over 72 national parks dispersed over this beautiful country. Over 60% of the world’s rainforest is located in Brazil. It is a multicultural country with a blend of ethnicities. Visiting Brazil once will leave you wanting to return to this beautiful country. Getting to Brazil Most people arriving in Brazil will travel by plane to Sao Paulo or Rio de Janeiro. There are direct flights from North America, South America and Europe. Buses are available from neighboring Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile and Peru.
Learn to Dive in Vietnam Vietnam’s Highlights Vietnam has several marine reserves worth exploring namely Ho Mun and Con Dao. Along the coast, Nha Trang, Hoi An and Phu Quoc are some of the most famous places to dive. Macro diving is common here with the opportunity to spot some interesting critters. When is the best time to go diving in Vietnam? You can dive in Vietnam at any time of year. Between March and October offers the calmest conditions and best visibility. Water Temperature: It gets down to 24°C in winter and rises to 30°C in summer. Currents: None to medium Visibility: Between 5 and 30 meters depending on the location Vietnam’s best dive sites Nudibranch Gardens, Phu Quoc Home to over 2,000 species of nudibranch, this dive site is ideal for spotting the beautifully colored sea slug. There are also bamboo sharks to be spotted, usually sleeping soundly under rocks. Madonna Rock, Nha Trang For the adventurous diver, Madonna Rock features many caves and swim-throughs to explore. The caves are filled with hundreds of glass fish to watch. The ghost pipefish can also be found here. Big Wall A wall dive that extends down to 35 meters, the Big Wall is covered in soft and hard coral. Home to a ton of marine life, this is an opportunity for a deep dive in Vietnam. About the country Vietnam has over 3,260 km of coastline and 5,800 islands. It is a biodiverse country and 60% of it is covered in lush rainforest. When you think of Vietnam, you might think of the rice paddy fields up North but the land is so much more. Up North in Sapa, it even snows! Vietnamese food is some of the best in the world. Street eateries are common, offering the most famous dishes at a fraction of restaurant prices. As you walk around any city, be sure to sample some of the local delicacies. Getting to Vietnam Getting to Vietnam can be done by flight, ferry or bus. Vietnam has 11 international airports around the country. There are direct flights from some European and Southeast Asian countries.
Learn to Dive in the Netherlands The Netherlands’ Highlights The Netherlands has sites for both recreational and technical divers. It has a large coastline, as well as lakes and rivers. Diving in the Netherlands means both freshwater and saltwater sites. When is the best time to go diving in the Netherlands? April to October offer the calmest conditions and the warmest water. Water Temperature: It can drop below 0°C in winter and rise to around 24°C in summer. Currents: None to strong Visibility: The visibility at most dive sites is usually quite low at around 5 to 10 meters. The low visibility can present challenges to novice divers and at some sites the use of a rope is required to keep divers together. The Netherlands’ best dive sites Oosterschelde Lake Different species of marine life leave the North Sea and end up in Oosterschelde Lake to spawn. From June to October, seahorses visit the area and during the spring and summer months squid and cuttlefish visit the site. Due to strong changes in the tide, diving is only allowed at certain times throughout the day. Boschmolenplas One of the best freshwater spots in the Netherlands, Boschmolenplas has great visibility of over 12 meters. There are different areas to practice buoyancy, a sculpture museum and wrecks. De Bergse Diepsluis A popular dive site all year-round, De Bergse Diepsluis is popular for cuttlefish. They come here to find a match and mate. The water has to reach a chilly 12°C, which is ideal for cuttlefish. About the country The Netherlands is famous for growing and exporting tulips, windmills and museums. It has the highest concentration of museums compared to any other country. It relies heavily on renewable energy and boasts over 1,000 windmills. Getting to the Netherlands The Netherlands is accessible from Europe, America, and the Middle East. There are planes and buses from neighboring European countries. To get around the Netherlands, it’s best to rent a car.
Learn to Dive in Germany Germany’s Highlights Germany is famous for its beautiful alpine lakes and for the Baltic Sea. Wrecks are a common occurrence in the Baltic Sea. Due to the climate, a 7mm or drysuit is recommended when diving in Germany. For some of the alpine lakes, an altitude diving speciality is required. When is the best time to go diving in Germany? It is possible to dive all year-round in Germany but most prefer to dive during summer between May and October. In the winter, ice diving is popular. Water Temperature: In winter, between 3°C and 8°C. During summer, ranges between 14°C and 30°C depending on location. Currents: None to medium Visibility: Between 2 and 10 meters Germany’s best dive sites The Hellend, Baltic Sea An 18 meter long steel yacht is found in the Baltic Sea. It’s relatively shallow and makes for a great dive for inexperienced divers. Sundhäuser See A stunning lake that features a sunken city including a church, underwater cemetery and wreck. Take a swim along pathways and watch fish swimming in the streets. A truly unique experience. Walchensee Walchensee is 800 meters above sea level and requires adequate altitude training before diving here. It’s a stunning alpine lake that is more than 180 meters deep. About the country Germany is a rich country with lots of places to explore. It has over 5,000 national beers and in Bavaria it is even considered a food. Oktoberfest is the largest festival of beer in the world. Getting to Germany Germany is accessible from most of Europe. It has direct flights to America, Asia and parts of Africa. Once you arrive in Germany, you can travel by public transport or rent a car.
Learn to Dive in Canada Canada’s Highlights The cold water keeps wrecks in pristine conditions. The water is cold all year-round and it is best to get your drysuit certification before diving in Canada. Divers have the possibility to spot sea lions and sharks. The main areas to dive in Canada are Quebec, Ontario, Nova Scotia and Vancouver Island in British Columbia. When is the best time to go diving in Canada? November to May has the best conditions and clearest visibility. Water Temperature: In winter, the water is between 4°C and 10°C. In summer, between 10°C and 15°C. Currents: Medium to strong Visibility: Usually between 15 and 20 meters. Canada’s best dive sites Browning Wall, Vancouver A stunning wall dive filled with marine life descending to 20 meters. Soft and hard coral teems with a variety of life. Sligo Wreck, Ontario The Sligo sank in 1918 and is over 42 meters at a depth of 20 meters. Due to the cold water, the wreck is in great condition. RMS Empress of Ireland, Quebec One of the best wrecks in the world and considered Canada’s mostly deadly maritime disaster. This 172 meter long vessel rests between 24 and 43 meters. Due to challenging currents and low visibility, this dive site is reserved for experienced divers. About the country With the longest coastline in the world, nature lovers enjoy visiting Canada. It features more lakes than any other country on earth. Canada boasts 10 percent of the world’s forests and is ideal for hiking. There are over 50 national parks located across the country with 30 of them being larger than some countries. Getting to Canada Canada is easily accessible from Europe, America, and the Middle East. Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec and Vancouver.
Learn to Dive in Belgium Belgium’s Highlights Nemo 33 was the world’s deepest pool for over 10 years. It’s kept at a warm 30°C meaning you can dive all year-round. Most dive sites are set up for independent divers and some private sites require a small fee. Belgium borders the North Sea, and also has many interesting lakes and quarries. Diving in the North Sea tends to be reserved for experienced divers as conditions are tough. When is the best time to go diving in Belgium? April to September offer the warmest waters and calmest water conditions. Some sites are open all year-round. Water Temperature: Ranges from 4°C to 20°C depending on the time of year. Currents: None to strong Visibility: Usually between 5 and 10 meters. Belgium’s best dive sites SS Trifels, North Sea Located between 24 and 36 meters, this German cargo ship was sunk by a torpedo in 1941. La Roche Fontaine Made famous by the huge crane that protrudes from the water. Underwater, you can spot drilling heads and pumps. La Gombe An interesting quarry to explore with a fighter jet. Introduced fish species like carps and sturgeons can be found swimming through these beautiful clear waters. About the country Belgium is famous for its chocolate, fries and craft beer. You can drive from one side of the country to the other in under 4 hours, making it easy to get around. Getting to Belgium Belgium is easy to get to from most European destinations. It has an international airport with connections worldwide. Once you land, it’s best to rent a car as most dive sites are accessed independently.
Learn to Dive in Turkey Turkey’s Highlights The diving in Turkey is varied with walls, reefs, wrecks and caverns to explore. Rays, turtles and octopuses are common to spot during dives. Turkey is the center of four seas: the Aegean, Marmara, Black Sea and the Mediterranean. There are some interesting wrecks dating back to WWI, an aircraft and a sunken city to explore. When is the best time to go diving in Turkey? It is possible to dive all year-round but May to November have the calmest conditions and best visibility. Water Temperature: From 16°C in winter to 28°C in summer. Currents: None to medium Visibility: Between 20 and 30 meters. Turkey’s best dive sites A300 Airbus A once in a lifetime dive site, the A300 Airbus was intentionally sunk for scuba divers. It’s 54 meters long and makes for an interesting dive. The Lundy The HMT Lundy is a trawler laying in Sulva Bay at a depth of 28 meters. The boat was sunk by a torpedo in 1915. In addition to war supplies, the trawler is now home to eels, lobsters and octopus. Aladdin’s Cave Descend into a beautiful cavern at a depth of 29 meters. Divers can view colourful coral and a grouper who call Aladdin’s Cave their home. Ascend to another cavern nicknamed the Hammam. Underwater photographers particularly like the second cavern as it is filled with natural light coming from holes in the ceiling. About the country Turkey is a country with a rich history and culture. Istanbul is one of the few cities in the world located on two continents, both Europe and Asia. Turkey is a large country with a diverse range of landscapes. You may think of Turkey as a hot country with beaches, it also has mountains suitable for skiing and hiking. Getting to Turkey Turkey is easily accessible from Europe, the Middle East and Asia. There are cruise lines that stop in Turkey and railways connect neighboring countries.
Learn to Dive in Tanzania Tanzania’s Highlights Tanzania is a stunning country to explore above and below the water. Mafia Islands, Zanzibar and Pemba Islands are the most famous locations to scuba dive in Tanzania. Pemba is less developed and less touristy than Tanzania. Diving in Tanzania has everything from macro to large pelagic life. It’s common to see sharks, dolphins and manta rays on a dive. The endangered dugong can also be spotted around Mafia Islands. Whale sharks can be spotted from April to October but are found November and December. When is the best time to go diving in Tanzania? You can dive in Tanzania at any time of year. The conditions are calmest during March and October. Water Temperature: The water is around 25°C all year-round. Currents: None to strong Visibility: Between 20 and 30 meters. Tanzania’s best dive sites Leven Bank, Pemba Channel Not for the faint of heart, Leven Bank is a challenging drift dive with strong currents. As a result, large pelagic species can be found around the site including Tuna, Barracuda and Kingfish. The Big Wall, Mnemba Island Featuring a deep wall, covered in coral is a place to spot sharks, rays and tuna. Located just at the beginning of the Pemba Channel, this dive site is a hard one to forget. Coral Garden, Mesali Island One of the best dive sites in Eastern Africa, with stunning hard and soft coral. Turtles, eels and a variety of fish species can be found at this site. Underwater photographers especially love this site for the colourful photo opportunities. This site is best explored doing a drift dive. About the country Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous parks in the world. People travel from all over the world to spot incredible animals. Mount Kilimanjaro is located in both Tanzania and Kenya. Getting to Tanzania With three international airports, Tanzania is easily accessible. Once you arrive, the easiest way to get around the country is by flying. Road travel can be lengthy and flying saves a lot of time spent on the road. If you’re going to be visiting a game reserve, you will require a sturdy car and consider hiring a local guide to show you around.
Learn to Dive in Kenya Kenya’s Highlights Kenya features some beautiful coastlines that make ideal diving spots. Kenya has 5 marine parks to choose from. Turtles can be spotted frequently on most dives. Different pelagic animals visit at various times of year. Between November and February, whale sharks and manta rays pass by Kenya. From July to October, humpback whales can be spotted along Kenya’s coast. When is the best time to go diving in Kenya? Diving is possible at any time of year but October to March have the calmest conditions and best visibility. Water Temperature: The water temperature is 23°C to 30°C. Currents: None to strong Visibility: Between 20 and 30 meters Kenya’s best dive sites Kindondo Drop into a real life aquarium with large schools of snappers, barracudas and more. There are cleaning stations which potato groupers flock to. Turtle Reef, Turtle Bay At a depth of 10 to 15 meters, aptly named Turtle Reef is abundant with green turtles. Stunning coral features large shoals of fish and white-tip reef sharks. Shark Alley A shallow dive starting at 7 meters with a maximum depth of 24 meters is famous for the opportunity to dive with guitar sharks and white tip reef sharks. About the country Kenya is world renowned for its safaris, national parks, and Kilimanjaro. With over 50 national parks to choose from and 5 marine parks, there is so much to explore. The wildebeest migration can be watched during July and August in the Maasai Mara National Park. Getting to Kenya Most travelers will enter Kenya from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Mombasa also has an international airport with flights from Zanzibar and other African cities. Once you arrive in Kenya, you can rent a car or hire a driver. Domestic flights are available to cities and some of the national parks.
Learn to Dive in Madagascar Madagascar’s Highlights Madagascar is an incredible diving destination. With a variety of marine animals, Nosy Be is one of Madagascar’s most famous spots. Liveaboards are the best way to see some of the more isolated and beautiful dive spots. The fauna is healthy and in pristine condition. From August to October, humpback whales can be spotted along the coast. In October and November, whale sharks can be seen. When is the best time to go diving in Madagascar? Diving is possible all year-round. Between December to March, cyclones can pass through and diving will be canceled for a few days. From May to December, the visibility is best at more than 30 meters. Water Temperature: The water is warm all year round from 25°C to 28°C. Currents: None to strong Visibility: Usually between 10 to 30 meters Madagascar’s best dive sites Shark Point Located close to Nosy Be, this dive site features reef sharks, hammerheads and whale sharks. Le Grand Banc Extérieur This dive site is famous for shark lovers. All types of sharks can be spotted in one dive from whale sharks to hammerheads. At 20 meters, there is a drop off, by looking into the blue you will have the chance to spot these amazing animals. Gorgonian Fan Forest A stunning dive site featuring giant Gorgonian fans. Macro lovers will enjoy spotting seahorses on the fans. Turtles, rays and an abundance of fish can be spotted during this dive. About the country Madagascar has beautiful beaches. Madagascar is a wildlife lover’s dream destination, over 90% of the species are endemic and not found anywhere else in the world. The landscapes are diverse with mangrove forests, rainforests, and deserts to explore. Getting to Madagascar Getting to Madagascar can be quite lengthy. There are direct flights from Paris, Istanbul, Bangkok, Nairobi and Johannesburg. Once you arrive, renting a car is the best way to get around. Road travel can be lengthy.
Learn to Dive in Mozambique Mozambique’s Highlights Marine life in Mozambique is diverse with manta rays, whale sharks and dugongs. In Tofo, whale sharks and manta rays are present all year-round. The reefs are healthy and vibrant. When is the best time to go diving in Mozambique? The best time of year to go diving in Mozambique is between May and September. Diving is possible all year-round. Water Temperature: Usually between 23°C to 30°C all year-round. Currents: None to strong Visibility: Between 20 and 40 meters Mozambique’s best dive sites Amazon, Tofo This dive site is home to a manta cleaning station. The site has a depth of 32 meters and strong currents. With these currents, it’s possible to spot nurse sharks, white-tips and leopard sharks. Aquarium, Bazaruto Archipelago A great site for all levels, the Aquarium has a maximum depth of 21 meters and features all sorts of marine life. Marble Arch, Tofo This site is famous for spotting whale sharks during the dive. Dive through a swim-through that takes you to the reef. With caverns and caves to explore, lobsters and rays can be spotted on this dive. About the country Depending on the location, Mozambique goes from desolate beach huts to backpacker friendly options and even luxury hotels. Tofo is world-renowned for kitesurfing especially from August to December. For surf lovers, head to Ponto do Ouro with waves nearly all year-round. Getting to Mozambique You will most likely visit one diving destination on your trip. Most travelers will fly to Maputo and catch a domestic flight to other cities in Mozambique. Reaching Pemba is quite easy from Tanzania, take a flight from Dar es Salaam, from there you can take a flight or ferry to the islands.
Learn to Dive in Colombia Colombia’s Highlights Colombia borders both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific. Colombia has dozens of dive locations to choose from depending on experience level and what you want to see during a dive. The Pacific side has stronger currents and is reserved for more experienced divers. These strong currents bring interesting marine life. The Caribbean side offers calmer conditions and some beautiful reefs. Malpelo Island is world-renowned for shark dives. From January to March, hammerhead sharks in large groups can be found. From May to September, silky sharks gather in the surrounding waters. Dives in Malpelo are reserved for experienced divers with a minimum number of dives. When is the best time to go diving in Colombia? You can go diving in Colombia at any time of year. The best months to dive are July to August and from December to March. Water Temperature: Between 24°C and 29°C all year-round. Currents: None to strong Visibility: 5 to 30 meters Colombia’s best dive sites Providencia Located on the third largest barrier reef system in the world stretching over 255 km2. The area around providencia is a UNESCO protected area. Stunning coral with a variety of animals to spot. 4 types of sharks can be spotted on over 40 dive sites in the area. Malpelo Located on the Colombian Pacific, Mapelo is difficult to get to but worth the trip. It’s one of the best places in the world to dive with sharks. Some divers report diving with up to 500 hammerheads. Gorgona Island Humpback whales use the area around Gorgona to breed. Located on the Pacific, these interesting dive sites are home to large pelagic species and turtles. About the country With a rich and vibrant culture, Colombia is a traveler’s dream. Lush rainforests, beautiful coastlines and interesting cities are part of Colombia. It is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, making it the perfect country for nature and animal lover’s to explore. One of Colombia’s most interesting points of interest is the Cano Cristales, roughly translated to the Liquid Rainbow which shines five different colours depending on the time of year. Getting to Colombia Colombia is easily accessible from North and South America, as well as Europe. It has five international airports spread out across the country. Getting to Colombia can sometimes be cheaper via America. Once you arrive, public buses or domestic flights are the best way to get around the country.
Learn to Dive in Sri Lanka Sri Lanka’s Highlights Located in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka has stunning coastlines and beautiful spots to scuba dive. Sri Lanka has something for everyone with beautiful reefs, caves and wrecks to explore. Diving in Sri Lanka is an incredible experience. The coral is healthy and in good condition making it the perfect home for marine life, both large and small. Blue whales and sperm whales can be found off the coast of Sri Lanka at certain points of the year. Sri Lanka has dive sites to suit all levels of recreational and technical divers. Some of the most interesting dives include strong currents and are reserved for more experienced divers. When is the best time to go diving in Sri Lanka? Diving in Sri Lanka can be done at any time of the year. Due to a changing monsoon season, on the west coast of Sri Lanka dive sites are open from October to April and on the east coast from May to September. Water Temperature: The water is between 27°C and 30°C all year-round. Currents: None to strong Visibility: Between 15 and 30 meters Sri Lanka’s best dive sites Shark Point, Beruwala This dive site features strong currents but with these currents comes interesting marine life. This multi-level rock formation is great for spotting large shoals of fish and reef sharks. Bulldog Reef, Kalpitiya Sri Lanka’s largest protected marine area is the Bar Reef in Kalpitiya. With over 150 species of coral and 280 species of fish to discover. This site is great for underwater photographers as the reef is quite shallow with good lighting and visibility. HMS British Sergeant A WWII merchant ship, the HMS British Sergeant was sunk by the Japanese during the war. At a depth of 24 meters, the wreck is broken into two halves. The second part of the wreck has many penetration points. About the country Sri Lanka is known as the ‘pearl of the Indian Ocean’ and ‘teardrop of India.’ It is a world famous surfing location with many spots to choose from along Sri Lanka’s long coastline. Over 25% of the country is protected with many species endemic to Sri Lanka. One of the most interesting cultural phenomenons is that people in Sri Lanka tend to shake their head from side to side while saying yes. This may take some time to get used to. Getting to Sri Lanka Flying to Sri Lanka is easy from the Middle East, Australia, India, Asia and Europe. There are two main airports Bandaranaike International Airport and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport.
Learn to Dive in Guatemala Guatemala’s Highlights Guatemala isn’t as famous as its neighbors when it comes to scuba diving. The most famous spot to dive is Lake Atitlán. It’s a high-altitude freshwater lake surrounded by 3 volcanoes. The famous flooded Mayan city named Samabaj is off-limits to divers and requires special permission and permits to be able to dive this site. Other spots to go diving in Guatemala are located along the eastern coast Puerto Barrios and Cabo Tres Puntas. There are a few dive spots along the Caribbean coast but be sure to check with the dive center as some center’s take people to Cayes of Belize to dive. When is the best time to go diving in Guatemala? February and April are the hottest months for air temperature with the least amount of rain which makes this the prime time to dive in Guatemala. Water Temperature: The water temperature of Lake Atitlán remains the same throughout the year at around 21°C. Currents: None to mild Visibility: Usually less than 5 meters in Lake Atitlan. Between 10 and 20 meters for the Caribbean coast dive sites. Guatemala’s best dive sites Casa Del Mundo, Lake Atitlán Located in the middle of three volcanoes, diving at Lake Atitlán is a once in a lifetime experience. Dive through the hallways of the Casa Del Mundo hotel and experience a dive like no other. As you ascend, you will swim past a sunken dock before exploring more rooms of the hotel. Mayan Village, Lake Atitlán While this used to be a thing of legend, in 1997 this was proven to be a thing of fact. Now a protected site that requires special permission to dive there, the Mayan Village is a truly extraordinary site. Agua Caliente, Lake Atitlán Named Agua Caliente for a reason. During this dive, feel the boiling water seeping up from below. In some places the water is hot enough to boil an egg over! About the country Guatemala is a beautiful and diverse country. Lake Atitlán is a magical place that will soothe your mind, body and soul. With plenty of villages to choose from around the lake, you will want to stay longer than you had planned. Guatemala features over 30 volcanoes of which three are active. It’s interesting to note that Guatemalans came up with chocolate making it a haven to try this delicious sweet. Getting to Guatemala La Aurora International Airport is located in Guatemala City and has direct flights to South and North America. Buses operate from Guatemala to its neighbors. Once you arrive in Guatemala, getting around can be done by bus, taxi, train or private car.
Learn to Dive in Sweden Sweden’s Highlights Sweden is not a famous diving destination but it does have some interesting wrecks. The Baltic Sea, with its cold water and low oxygen content, make it great for preserving 14th to 16th century ships. Conditions are tough and adequate exposure protection and training are essential. A dry-suit is highly recommended, even during summer when doing repetitive dives. The water tends to be dark with limited visibility. There are plenty of interesting sites to go diving in Sweden located throughout the country.There are some stunning reefs in the nature reserve of Kullen, Släggö and Kosterhavet national park. Some of these sites even feature a variety of marine life, including crabs and sea stars. When is the best time to go diving in Sweden? Between September and November and between March and May the conditions are calmest and the visibility is at its best. Water Temperature: The water temperature is low in winter and a chilly 2°C to 4°C and rises to about 20°C in summer. Currents: None to strong Visibility: Between 2 and 5 meters but can reach up to 20 meters Sweden’s best dive sites Vagnharad Limestone Quarry This site is where beginners go to learn due to its depth and visibility. The quarry has a depth of 45 meters making it suitable for beginner and deep diver certifications, and ice diving in winter. Robert SS An interesting wreck at a depth of 42 meter so reserved for experienced divers. Visibility is between 5 and 10 meters. Sappemeer A wreck located in the Baltic sea that sank in 1969 due to rough seas. Now lying at a depth of 25 meters, the wreck has several points that can be penetrated including the cargo area. About the country Sweden is a country with over 3,000 km of coastline and 90,000 lakes. It’s a beautiful country that nature lovers will enjoy exploring. Over 60% of the country is covered in forest. Sweden has remained neutral since 1914. It has some of the most progressive LGBT+ rights in the world. Fika plays a central part in the daily life of all Swedes, getting to enjoy a true part of Swedish culture over a hot beverage and warm cinnamon roll. Getting to Sweden Sweden has direct access to many countries in Europe, North America and the Middle East. Trains are available from the countries around Sweden. Flying to Sweden is often cheaper than catching a train. You can also drive from Finland and Norway. Once you arrive in Sweden, trains and buses connect most major towns.
Learn to Dive in Cuba Cuba’s Highlights Diving in Cuba is incredible. Over 100 species of sharks can be found in Cuba’s waters. Whale sharks and manta rays can be spotted at various times of the year. The reefs in Cuba are healthy and in good condition. One of the best ways to visit Cuba’s best dive sites is doing a liveaboard. Cuba has found it important to protect its waters which means dive sites are healthy and vibrant. It is one of the larger Caribbean countries with over 500 dive sites to explore. Many of Cuba’s dive sites can be accessed directly from shore making it easy to do repetitive dives in a day. For years, Cuba was inaccessible to Americans and was not touristy at all. Unlike other Caribbean destinations, Cuba developed without American tourism. When is the best time to go diving in Cuba? You can dive in Cuba at any time of the year. The best time to dive is between November and April, which is the dry season with the calmest conditions. Water Temperature: The water drops to 25°C and rises to 30°C in the hotter months. Currents: None to medium Visibility: Between 20 and 40 meters Cuba’s best dive sites Cueva de los Peces, Bay of Pigs The Bay of Pigs is monumental in shaping Cuba’s history in the 1960’s. Now home to some beautiful dive sites, Cueva de los Peces or ‘Fish Cave’ features 17 species of coral and an abundance of fish on a wall that drops to 70 meters. Jardines de la Reina This archipelago, located 80km from mainland Cuba, can only be accessed by liveaboard. Jardines de la Reina has been a protected marine park since 2002. It’s over 150 km in length and has many spots to be explored. Black tips, nurse sharks and hammerheads can be found in huge numbers. You will also have the chance to swim with crocodiles that live in the mangroves. Punta Francés on the Isla de la Juventud With crystal clear blue water, Punta Francés features over 56 stunning dive sites. Hammerheads and rays are common to see on dives. About the country When picking where to stay in Cuba, you can choose to stay in a hotel, owned by the government or private houses with or without other tenants. By living with the locals, you can uncover a part of Cuba that other tourists won’t see. People still live on rations so dining options may be different to other countries. Getting to Cuba Cuba’s main airport is the José Martín International Airport in Havana. Once you arrive in Cuba it’s important to note that there are limited options when it comes to buses and trains that connect the major cities. One of the best ways to get around is to rent a car.
Learn to Dive in Hungary Hungary’s Highlights Diving in Hungary is full of once in a lifetime dive sites. It’s a landlocked country with seven neighbors but that does stop it from having some interesting dive sites. Kobánya is a flooded old mine and beer factory waiting to be explored. The Molnár János Caves are thermal baths suitable for diving in the heart of Budapest. The water is always between 20 and 28 degrees all year-round. When is the best time to go diving in Hungary? At most dive sites in Hungary diving is possible all year-round. Water Temperature: Depends on the site. Can drop to 13°C at some dive sites and rise to 25°C and over at others. Currents: None Visibility: Usually between 20 to 40 meters depending on the dive site and water conditions Hungary’s best dive sites Köbánya A stone mine dating back to the 19th Century and turned into a beer factory. They dug well to extract water for the beer which eventually filled up and flooded. Decades later, this creates a truly unique dive site to explore. There are four sites, 3 of which are only accessible to fully certified cave divers and one site is suitable for novice divers. The old mine and factory has a depth of 30 meters and is filled with fresh water with near perfect visibility. Divers can explore several rooms and enjoy looking for old equipment leftover. The water temperature is 13 degrees all year-round and so a dry-suit is highly recommended. Molnár János Caves A thermal bath in the center of Budapest waiting to be explored. The water temperature is 20°C to 28°C degrees all year-round. The cave features some stunning rock formations and has over 7km of passageways. Spend some time looking for fossils which can be found throughout the dive site. Lake Haviz A thermal lake with a stunning cave. The water temperature doesn’t drop below 23 even in winter. The bottom is covered in silt so maintaining good buoyancy is key. Average visibility is between 3 and 5 meters. This dive should only be done with the right training. About the country Hungary is a landlocked country in central Europe. Hungary does have over 1300 spas using thermal springs located around the country with over 120 in Budapest itself. Some of these baths even date back to Roman times. Hungary has a long and interesting past, making it the perfect destination for history lovers. Getting to Hungary Hungary is easily accessible from other European destinations by plane, train or bus. Once you arrive in Hungary, public transport, private cars or taxis are all available.
Oman’s Highlights Oman is an incredibly diverse and beautiful country. Oman’s coastline stretches over 3000 km. With only a handful of dive centers, diving is still up and coming. Muscat, Musandam and Salalah are the three main diving destinations. In Muscat, Daymaniyat Islands, Fahal Island and Bandar Khayran are the three most famous diving locations. Muscat, Oman’s capital, has some of the best diving in the whole country. With dive sites located from the shore and shore boat rides, the dive sites are endless. Daymaniyat islands are a protected marine reserve, home to marine bird colonies, nesting turtles, stunning reefs and an abundance of marine life. Whale sharks migrate past from July to October. Zebra sharks and black-tips can be spotted all year-round. Fahal Island, with its nickname of shark island, is home to sharks, rays, a wreck and an interesting swim-through. Bandar Khayran features a stunning limestone coastline and over 20 dive sites to explore, each teeming with life and incredibly diverse. During nearly every dive in Muscat and in Oman itself you will be able to spot a sea turtle. Home to five of the world’s species of turtles, with four making Oman one of their prime nesting spots. There is a variety of hard and soft coral, home to reef fish, turtles, rays, crustaceans and huge honeycomb moray eels. Musandam, located along the Gulf of Oman, has an incredible diversity of marine life. The landscape across Oman is truly remarkable and in Musandam with its steep mountains and beautiful bays, there’s a range of sites waiting to be explored. Further down south, Mirbat near Salalah has some of the best diving in Oman. In Mirbat, you can find large pelagic animals swimming past. Over 22 species of whales and dolphins can be found in these waters. The dive sites here feature stunning coral reefs and kelp forests. Diving conditions can be quite tough and some are reserved for more experienced divers. When is the best time to go diving in Oman? Diving is possible in Oman at any time of the year. In Salalah, diving is not possible between June and September as this is the monsoon season known locally as khareef. The best month to dive in the South is between October and May. In the North, the summer time air temperature can reach over 50°C. Thus, the best time to dive in Oman is April to May and September to October. The month of May has the best visibility. Water Temperature: Drops to 19°C in winter and rises to 30°C in summer. Currents: None to strong Visibility: 5 to 30 meters depending on the site Oman’s best dive sites Al Munassir, Bandar Khayran An old British Navy ship that was purposefully sunk in 2003 to create an artificial reef. It is now home to a few giant honeycomb moray eels and a few nudibranchs. Due to its depth, you need to be an advanced open water diver to dive here. Aquarium, Daymaniyat Islands At a depth of 20 meters, this dive site can be enjoyed by all levels of divers. Beware, sometimes this site has a strong surface current. This site is located in the middle of the ocean and appropriately named Aquarium. As you descend, you will be met with all types of marine life from turtles, cuttlefish and rays. The elusive mola mola has even been spotted here. Eagle Bay, Mirbat At a depth of 5 to 15 meters, this site is suitable for all levels. This secluded bay and dive site has a rocky formation covered in hard and soft corals. The site has a sandy bottom perfect for spotting sleeping rays. Large honeycomb moray eels, eagle rays, turtles and cuttlefish can be found here. About the country Oman has something for everyone. From empty beaches, to wadis, mountains and desert, it’s a country that offers so much diversity. Both above and below the water. At Ras al Jinz, green turtles, Loggerhead turtles and Leatherback turtles come along these shores to nest. At various points throughout the year, you can spot baby turtles making their way to the ocean. Getting to Oman Oman’s main international airport i...
New Zealand’s Highlights New Zealand is a magical country both above and below the water. With miles of coastlines, interesting topography and a variety of marine life, New Zealand should be on your dive bucket list. There are dive sites for all levels of diver. Some of the best dive sites are wreck dives. New Zealand has over 113 species of sharks and 26 species of rays. Almost half of the world’s dolphin and whale species can be found in the waters surrounding New Zealand. There are many marine reserves located around New Zealand that protect the land and marine animals that live in it. The Poor Knight Islands has seasonal visitors including manta rays, orcas and eagle rays. The fiords are popular on the South Island to spot black coral. The dive sites are very different on the North and South Islands. Kaikoura, located on the Southern Island, is home to fur seals. Dusky dolphins can also be found here. Most of New Zealand’s dive sites can be accessed from the shore while some are boat dives. When is the best time to go diving in New Zealand? Diving in New Zealand is possible at any time of year. Water Temperature: Water temperature varies by location and time of year. Throughout June to November the water is between 15°C and 21°C. Between May and December, the water rises to between 19°C to 25°C. A 7mm wetsuit or drysuit are highly recommended. The North Island has subtropical water and a warmer overall climate. It offers great diving all year round. Between November to April, there are plankton blooms which can attract orcas and stingrays but can reduce visibility. Between May and November, the water temperature drops to as low as 14°C but viability can go up to 30 meters. The South Island has colder water. The best time of year is between November and April. The highest temperature will be 18°C but can drop to below 8°C between May to September. Currents: None to strong Visibility: 5 to 30 meters depending on the time of year and location New Zealand’s best dive sites The Rainbow Warrior Considered one of New Zealand’s best wreck dives, The Rainbow Warrior was a Greenpeace ship that sank during a protest in 1985. Located in the Cavalli Islands at a depth of 26 meters. Over 40 meters in length, the wreck features a marvelous array of marine life from large school of life to macro critters. The HMNZS Canterbury Navy Frigate The HMNZS Canterbury Navy Frigate was purposefully sunk in 2007 to create an artificial reef and is now full of coral. The wreck is located between 20 and 36 meters making it suitable for advanced level divers. The ship is over 113 meters in length with many interesting points to explore. The Poor Knights Islands Off the northeastern coast of New Zealand, the Poor Knights Islands are some of the best dive sites in New Zealand. As one of the oldest marine reserves in New Zealand, it is home to a diverse range of marine life which can include dolphins, orcas and rays. With swim-throughs, caves and arches to explore, the dive sites are exhilarating. About the country With its rich Maori history, New Zealand is a wonderful country to visit. New Zealand cares about their beautiful country and over 30% of the country is a national reserve. New Zealanders, otherwise known as kiwis, are friendly, easy going and they have great respect for their land. Over 75% of the population lives on North Island. Getting to New Zealand Most international flights land at Aukland’s international airport. To travel domestically, there are many flights or ferries that take you between major cities. Flying from Europe can take over 24 hours so some people prefer to take a few days break in Asia. To some parts of Australia it’s only a three and a half hour flight. From America, there are overnight flights.
Panama’s Highlights Panama is actually named after an indigenous word meaning ‘abundance of fish’. A suitable name for such a beautiful country. Panama is located on the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea meaning you can visit both on a single trip. In fact, some people even choose to dive both in a single day. Panama features dive sites suitable for all levels. The Caribbean sea is known for its tropical fish and healthy coral reefs, including some larger marine animals like sharks and turtles. It might be better for learning how to dive as it offers shallower sites and calmer conditions. In comparison, The Pacific side has less fish but more chance of diving with something larger like sharks, whales or whale sharks. From July to September, humpback whales can be spotted. Orcas, Mobula rays and pilot whales are often spotted along the Pacific Coast. Panama is a beautiful country both under and above water. Full of pristine beaches and stunning marine life, Panama is a true scuba diver’s dream. Panama is home to over 250 species of fish and 52 types of coral. Some of the most famous places to dive in Panama include: Coiba National Park, Portobelo National Park, Gatun Lake and Archipelago de Las Perlas. The Coiba National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can dive with hammerhead sharks, humpback whales, whale-sharks, orcas and over 700 species of fish. In comparison, Portobelo National Park located on the Caribbean side, is famous for its great visibility, mangrove forests and pristine beaches. When is the best time to go diving in Panama? Scuba diving in Panama is possible at any time of year. The best time of year is during the dry season which is from the end of December to May. Water Temperature: On the Pacific Coast, the waters range from 15°C to 23°C all year-round. Along the Caribbean Coast, the water is slightly warmer from 23°C to 27°C. Currents: None to strong Visibility: Between 10 and 30 meters Panama’s best dive sites Tiger Rock, Bocas del Toro With three rock pinnacles descending to 40 meters, this site usually features strong currents which make it a great place to spot dolphins, whale sharks, sharks and rays. Picos Gemelos, Coiba Island This dive site has a stunning sloping reef filled with sea fans and gorgonians. This is a shallow site with an average depth of 8 meters but does usually feature a strong current. Barracudas, manta rays and whale sharks can often be spotted. Playa El Estero, Santa Catalina An interesting site due its topography of volcanic rocks and coral. While the coral may not be as vibrant here as other parts of Panama it has an amazing range of fish including: barracudas, eels, lobsters and nurse sharks. About the country Panama is located in the ‘Crossroads of the Americas’ in between North and South America. It is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world with over 10,000 species of plant. Panama has over 1,500 islands that are part of this stunning country. In addition, the Panama Canal is one of the seven modern World Wonders and was built by the U.S. Army between 1904 and 1914. Getting to Panama The main international airport is Tocumen International Airport in Panama City. It has direct flights to cities around the US including Atlanta, Houston or Miami. Located in Central America, it is easy to travel from South and North America. Travel from Europe is lengthy, usually with a transit in Miami.
Learn to Dive in Jamaica Jamaica’s Highlights Most dive sites are uncrowded which makes a change from some of its neighbors. Most dive sites are close to shore at 5 to 40 minutes boat ride away. Eagle rays, turtles and tropical fish are common to be spotted during a dive. There are great dive sites located across Jamaica including Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, Montego Bay and Negril. The first marine park was established in Montego Bay in 1992 with subsequent protected parks established in Negril and Ocho Rios. The most interesting dive sites feature swim-throughs, caves and wrecks. When is the best time to go diving in Jamaica? It is possible to dive in Jamaica all year-round. June to September offer the calmest conditions and best visibility. Between December and April offers the best diving conditions. From May to November, there is the chance of rain. Hurricanes usually hit Jamaica in October and November. Water Temperature: The water is always warm ranging between 24°C and 29°C. Currents: None to strong Visibility: From 10 to 40 meters. Jamaica’s best dive sites Throne Room, Negril Located at a depth of 20 meters, the Throne Room is an underwater cavern with a huge throne-like elephant ear sponge, awarding this dive site its name. Nurse sharks and barracudas are some of the most interesting marine life at this site. Widowmaker’s Cave, Montego Bay This is a chimney-like dive site that can be started from either the bottom or the top. You can choose whether to swim down the chimney or enter the cave near 30 meters and exit around 10 meters. Black coral, schools of fish and barracuda can be found at this dive site. SS Kathryn Wreck, Ocho Rios One of Jamaica’s most popular dive sites, the SS Kathryn Wreck is a WWII mine-sweeper. A 43 long meter ship It was sunk in the 1950’s to create an artificial reef and is now home to coral and marine life. The wreck is in good condition and you can penetrate it at many spots. About the country Jamaica is so much more than beautiful beaches and reggae music. With a distinct history, culture and cuisine, Jamaica is a wonderful place to visit. It has some stunning waterfalls that are must-sees during your visit, Mayfield Falls, Reach Falls and YS Falls. Getting to Jamaica With three international airports, Jamaica is accessible to the rest of the world. The Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay is one of the busiest. The Ian Fleming International Airport is the best for those wanting to visit Ocho Rio.