Diving holidays offer a unique opportunity to see a side of our world that few will ever see. For a brief moment you can enter an alien landscape, occupied by unique and captivating creatures that have to be seen to be believed. Each diving spot hosts a collection of flora and fauna entirely unique to that ecosystem, that cannot be experienced anywhere else. Here are just a few of the best diving sites from around the world.
Best Dive Sites in the World
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the largest coral diving spots in the world. While the creature comforts of the tourist resorts around Brisbane and Cairns might appeal to many divers, the diving traffic in the area has damaged the reef, taking away from its beauty. To see the true, natural beauty of the Reef you need to venture further North, towards Port Douglas, where the reefs are untouched by inexperienced divers. Further up the Queensland coast you can also find the Yongala shipwreck, which sank in 1911 while carrying immigrants to Australia. While it is illegal to enter the ship itself, the exterior provides a stunning combination of nature and man-made objects.
Sinai Peninsula, Egypt
The rich history of the Middle East offers hundreds of unique diving site for every level of ability. As well as stunning reefs and marine life, the area offers dozens of mystifying wrecks, some dating from as early as 3000 years ago! Diving in Sinai is ideal for first time, or casual divers, as the area hosts spa and holiday resorts. Sharm El Sheikh holidays becoming increasingly popular among European tourist looking to relax and unwind.
Palau, Micronesia
The isolated islands of the Pacific offer pristine coral shelves, which remain almost untouched by human hands. Palau is famed for its shark population, with the coral shelf and local currents drawing dozens of sharks within inches of divers. Palau also provides vibrant coral reefs that are home to some of the most diverse marine life in the world. Many professional divers rate the sites of Palau as top in the world for their dazzling wildlife and unforgettable scenery.
Blue Hole, Belize
A unique opportunity for highly experienced divers, the Blue Hole is rated among the best dive sites in the world. The spot features vibrantly coloured reefs and imposing caverns of stalactite 30 metres below the surface. While the Blue Hole is known for its diverse shark life, its biggest draw is the danger factor; the site is among one of the most dangerous dives in the world. So, if you’re a professional diver looking for a unique, challenging site, without hordes of tourists, the Blue Hole is the place to be.
Have you been to any of these dive sites? And tell me what are your best dive sites in the world?