If you’re a diver, the best way to experience your next destination is under the water. From whale sharks cruising fjords in Iceland to orcas and wild dolphins swimming alongside coral reefs in Costa Rica – there are plenty of dive destinations around the world for divers to choose from!
Richelieu Rock
Richelieu Rock is one of Thailand’s most beloved dive destinations, especially for whale shark sightings. Situated within Mu Koh Surin marine park, approximately 18km away from land, visitors can access this underwater wonder either by liveaboard or day trip boat.
Richelieu Rock, a horseshoe-shaped limestone pinnacle, is covered with soft corals, anemones and gorgonian sea fans and decorated with shelves, ledges, cracks and crevices. In its shallower areas you’ll find various colorful tropical fish and moray eels.
At Richelieu Rock, you can spot giant trevally, barracudas and tunas swimming around in schools. Additionally, smaller reef species like frogfish, harlequin shrimps and seahorses can be observed as well. Porcelain crabs, tiger tail sea horses, pipefish and ghost pipefish can all be observed here as well as octopus, stone fish and cuttlefish.
In the summer months, when boats are often filled with day trippers, it can be more challenging to spot pelagic species like Whale Sharks or Manta Rays. On the contrary, from February through April you can expect more Whale Shark sightings and an increased likelihood of seeing other pelagics such as Manta Rays.
Richelieu Rock typically offers excellent visibility, though plankton blooms may cause some low light conditions. No matter the water clarity you can always enjoy a breathtaking experience at this site that appeals to both divers and underwater photographers!
Richelieu Rock is home to an abundance of wildlife, such as porcelain crabs, tiger tail sea horses, octopus, pipefish and harlequin shrimp. You will also spot various fish species like swam-through seahorses and blue-eyed moray eels.
Richelieu Rock boasts numerous swim-throughs and ledges where visitors can spot colorful ghost pipefish, harlequin shrimp, frog fish, octopus and more. Macro photography enthusiasts will especially enjoy this place as they can easily snap photos of all these tiny creatures.
Richelieu Rock is an impressive limestone formation and home to an abundance of marine biotopes. Despite its rugged topography, Richelieu Rock remains accessible for divers of all abilities – making it a must-dive spot for anyone visiting Surin Islands.
Mushi Mas Mingili Thila
Scuba diving in the Maldives offers some of the world’s finest underwater views. With a diverse selection of top-notch dive sites, there is something to suit everyone’s skill level. Central atolls are renowned for their abundant marine life including manta rays and sharks; Vaavu and Ari islands are great spots to spot pelagic fish as well as coral gardens.
Mushi Mas Mingili Thila, commonly referred to as Fish Head, is one of the most beloved dive sites in the Maldives. Previously a common shark feeding spot for scuba divers, this marine area is now officially protected and conserved for conservation.
In addition to sharks, you may encounter other marine life such as schooling fusiliers and trevally, barracudas and Napoleon wrasse. This is an ideal spot for watching the action unfold and taking photos as the marine life gets up close and personal.
Kudarah Thila – Declared a “Protected Marine Area” by the Maldivian government, Kudarah Thila is an idyllic dive site that benefits from strong incoming currents. Here, divers can observe an array of marine life including trumpet fish, snapper, gobies, dartfish and oriental sweetlips; plus there’s a swim-through at its south-east corner that makes it particularly popular. Further out from the reef edge can divers expect to spot gray reef sharks and Napoleon fish too.
Kandooma Thila – Situated atop a long, thin pinnacle in the middle of a channel between Cocoa Corner and Kandooma Island Resort, Kandooma Thila is an increasingly popular scuba diving spot. While its strong current can make it challenging for beginners, experienced divers will find the experience rewarding.
The channel itself is shallow, providing a short sloping passage encased in stunning hard and soft corals. The walls drop to around 30 metres below sea level, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration under numerous overhangs.
Bodu Miyaru Kandu – Popular scuba diving destination, the Bodu Miyaru Kandu channel offers plenty of underwater exploration with its small caves and numerous overhangs. On the left-hand side of the channel, there’s a sloping section covered in hard and soft coral.
Silfra Fissure
Silfra Fissure in Iceland is a must-see destination for scuba divers and snorkelers. With incredible visibility, crystal clear water, and the chance to swim between two continental plates – it provides an incredibly unique experience that’s sure to leave an indelible mark on all those who partake in diving and snorkeling activities!
The Silfra Fissure, created after an earthquake in 1789 and 200 feet deep, continues to widen by 0.79 inches (2 cm) annually. This 200 feet-deep crack is fed by glacial meltwater from Langjokull – Iceland’s second largest glacier – that mixes with porous underground lava to form an efficient filtration system that keeps the fissure water crystal clear and pure.
Consequently, the water in Silfra Fissure is incredibly clear – underwater visibility reaching up to 100 meters! This is because glacial meltwater from Langjokull passes through porous lava rock for 30 to 100 years before entering Thingvellir lake.
Silfra Fissure is one of the world’s premier scuba diving and snorkeling spots, but it also provides some captivating attractions for adventurers. These include The Big Crack which can be explored with a local guide. Furthermore, there are numerous caves within this rift zone which are perfect for either scuba divers or snorkelers to explore.
Though there isn’t a lot of wildlife in the water, you can expect to spot vibrant algae and bright green “troll hair,” creating an impressive colorscape. You might even spot a small fish or sea creature if you have a good view.
Before embarking on your scuba diving or snorkeling expedition in the Silfra Fissure, there are a few things you should be aware of. Firstly, ensure you’re in good health and certified by an authorized dive company; additionally, having some basic snorkeling experience should be sufficient before booking a tour.
Second, be prepared for the cold temperature of fissure waters. As this is melted glacier water, it can get quite chilly at times. That is why you should wear a wet suit and bring along a pair of warm socks on your tour.
Micronesia
The Federated States of Micronesia is an idyllic region situated in the Pacific Ocean. It consists of four island states: Yap, Chuuk (Truk), Pohnpei and Kosrae.
Micronesia is a haven for travelers, offering some of the world’s finest diving. The crystal clear seas boast incredible coral reefs that support an abundance of fish and other marine life. There are many scuba diving destinations in this region; Truk Lagoon being one of the most renowned.
Truk Lagoon is an ideal spot for scuba divers to explore WWII wrecks and beautiful tropical reefs. There are several dive shops on the islands that offer guided excursions to Truk Lagoon; Blue Lagoon Dive Shop or Micronesia Aquatics of Truk Lagoon are two popular choices.
If you’re searching for something unique, why not consider taking a kayak tour? You can hire kayaks with experienced guides who will take you through mangrove channels to various islands and beaches.
Utwe-Walung Marine Park is an ideal destination to learn more about the island’s mangrove ecosystem. Additionally, this community conservation area boasts ancient stone ruins and vibrant hard coral reefs.
Take a snorkeling tour here for an up-close view of the marine wildlife. You’re likely to spot plenty of turtles, fish and other marine creatures.
Furthermore, visitors to this park can admire the Bully Hayes shipwreck and many other captivating sites. Additionally, you can go on a leisurely hike around its stunning natural landscape for some truly breathtaking views.
Micronesia’s remote areas offer some of the best sightseeing spots. These quiet retreats are ideal for those seeking to escape the crowds and savor a peaceful break away.
Micronesia’s people are generally friendly, but it’s essential to be aware of safety precautions when traveling there. You should avoid walking alone in remote areas – particularly at night – and adhere to local dress standards.