- Animal
- Time of year
- Area, Country or Location
- Type
- Experience
- Can see
Hawksbill turtles although endangered are a wide spread species with you have a high chance of seeing whilst diving lots of tropical coral reefs. These turtles are harmless and most are not bothered by the presence of divers and usually just look at you and then get back to whatever they were previously up to. There are a few unique turtles that do decide to investigate you and your equipment, making for a very interesting dive. Lots are very used to divers so you can get very close, for a decent length of time, making these creatures a perfect photographic subject, I’m sure some even pose a little!
Although these beautiful creatures are not bothered by your presence you must still respect their space and remember not to touch and especially never ever ride on a turtles shell!!! As you can imagine this is not a fun experience for them and can lead to excessive stress and shock which can make the turtle ill or even die.
As long as you treat the turtles with respect you can get a fun, enjoyable encounter usually with many, many excellent photos.
Hawksbill Sea Turtles (Eretmochelys imbricate) can grow to 1m in length, with an average weight of between 80kg and have a life expectancy of 50 years. They are omnivorous and mostly eat sea sponges but also algae, jellyfish and sea anemonies.
There are a few points to consider when distinguishing a Hawksbill Turtle from a Green turtle. Firstly and the most obvious point is that the Hawksbill Turtle has a sharp , curving, hooked beak and the Green Turtle has a short unhooked snout. Then there are other signs such as the amount of scutes on its shell and the fact the Green turtle has a single claw on its front appendages where the Hawksbill has two. Also the turtles scutes on its shell overlap at the back to give a serrated edge.
The Hawksbill turtle’s population is widely spread over the whole of the worlds tropical and sub tropical oceans. This population is generally split into two, the Atlantic population and the East Pacific population. These turtles, along with most other sea turtles, migrate huge distances, sometimes as far as 2600 miles, between their feeding grounds and breeding and nesting beaches. They mate bi-annually in secluded areas next to their nesting beaches. Once the female has mated she will pull herself up the beach and then lays and buries her eggs in a nest in the sand. Clutch size is usually between around 140 eggs. The eggs then hatch 2 months later during the night and all the hatchlings instinctively head to the water.
Hawksbill turtles are listed as critically endangered and are protected in most countries. They are hunted for their shells and these are the primary source for tortoise shell material used for decorative purposes. They used to also be considered a delicacy in China. The capture and trade of these sea turtles or products derived from them is now illegal although many are still illegally caught. Lots of countries also protect the turtles nesting beaches, with many conservation groups that have been set up to monitor and protect the eggs and nests from poaching by humans and other wild animals. Even so they still face many threats, including habitat destruction entanglement in fishing nets and illness and death caused by water pollution.
More detailed information about Hawksbill Turtles can be found here.
Aliwal Shoal, South Africa
Aliwal Shoal is a reef unlike any other reef you have seen before. It is a fossilized sand dune reef, rather than the coral reefs common on Sodwana Bay or the Red Sea. This creates an area with huge swim throughs,...
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Alor Island, Indonesia
Alor is the last island furthest east and north in the East Nusa Tenggara province, more commonly know in Bahasa Indonesia as Nusa Tenggara Timur or NTT. NTT as a province is most famous for Komodo Island and it’s aboriginal inhabitants the...
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Ambergris Caye, Belize
The most popular of Belize’s diving destinations, with access to the second largest barrier reef in the World and one of the most famous Blue Holes! Ambergris Caye has some great relaxed, fun diving to match its peoples laid back relaxed attitude. Ambergris...
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Andros, Bahamas
Set in a tropical scattering of islands, surrounded by the third largest coral reef and some of the clearest water in the world. Andros has a wide range of exciting and beautiful marine life making this an exciting scuba diving location. The...
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Anguilla
Anguilla is one of Caribbean’s island treasures also worth exploring. Located east of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, north of Saint Martin, this beautiful island is surrounded by white sand beaches and great views of the green-blue sea. Climate Anguilla has...
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Anilao, Philippines
Anilao is on the island of Luzon, about 3 hours' drive south of Manila, in the Batangas province of the Philippines. It is best known for muck diving. Anilao is known among divers for its macro life and muck diving. There are...
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Apo Reef and Pandan Islands, Philippines
Apo Reef is the largest atoll in the Philippines and the world's second largest single coral reef; clearly this represents a significant attraction to tourists and divers alike. The Apo Reef Natural Park was given Protected Area status in 1996. The park is famous for...
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Aqaba, Jordan
Aqaba lies on the tip of the Red Sea on the border of Israel, and was historically connected to the city of Eilat. Today, this unique Jordanian town is the country’s top diving and snorkelling destination. In addition to offering up sensational...
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Ari Atoll, Maldives
Manta Rays elegantly swim through the warm clear waters surrounding the many tranquil atolls and islands. With waters packed full of life and plenty of large pelagic species the Maldives is one of the most exciting places in the underwater world to...
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Baa Atoll & Raa Atoll, Maldives
Home to the famous Hanifaru Lagoon where huge numbers Manta Rays and Whale Sharks congregate to mass feed! Baa and Raa Atolls are also known as North Maalhosmadulu and South Maalhosmadulu are based in the north west of the Maldives. Diving the...
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Bali, Indonesia
A high chance of Sharks and Mola Mola’s, shallow coral reefs and steep wall dives, Bali has some spectacular dive sites which cater for everyone. Bali, which is Indonesia’s top tourist destination, is an excellent base to explore all the ocean has...
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Bangka, Indonesia
Bangka (Pulau Bangka), North Sulawesi, Indonesia is located in between Bunaken and Lembeh and people come here for the white sand beaches, quiet resorts with plenty of space to relax. Bangka offers a variety of dive sites, from underwater pinnacles to shallow reefs,...
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Barbados
Barbados is like the black sheep of the Caribbean’s Windward Islands. It lies over 100 km to the east of the arc made up by the Lesser Antilles island chain and is encircled by reefs provided numerous excellent diving spots. Unlike its...
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Berry Islands, Bahamas
A quiet group of islands with excellent less known reefs, the Berry Islands are great for those who want a quiet holiday but still have access to excellent reefs and large pelagic species. The Bahamas means “Shallow Seas” and consists of a...
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Bimini, Bahamas
Bimini lays 81km (53 miles) due east of Miami, just on the other side of the gulf stream. The close proximity to the United States made it the ideal spot for an offshore speakeasy during prohibition. One of the most popular shipwrecks...
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Boa Vista, Cape Verde
Stunning beaches, a relaxed vibe, few people and unique Portuguese/African flare – welcome to Cape Verde, a newly discovered scuba diving gem. Boa Vista is the easternmost island in the rocky and volcanic archipelago, and its name directly translates to mean 'beautiful...
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Bonaire
Healthy Reefs, excellent macro marine life, world renowned shore diving and remarkably calm sea all contribute to make Bonaire a fantastic divine location. With as many as 60 listed dive sites on the main island of Bonaire and 20 on the nearby...
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Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora sounds exotic, and it is. It's also home to some spectacular dive sites populated with some of the ocean's top predators. Blacktip Reef, Lemon, Whitetip and Hammerhead sharks are a few of the 16 species that are regularly spotted in...
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Boracay Island, Philippines
Boracay is a small island located in Aklan Province of the Philippines, roughly 315km south of Manila. It has been ranked as one of the best islands in the world for relaxation, tranquility and nightlife – in addition to having great scuba...
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Bunaken National Marine Park, Indonesia
Bunaken is a tiny island, located just off the northern tip of Sulawesi in Indonesia. It falls within the 900 square kilometer Bunaken National Marine Park, which makes this remote corner of the world absolutely sensational for diving. The region is famed...
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Byron Bay, Australia
Byron Bay is a picturesque coastal town located in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, 175km south of Brisbane, and 800km North of Sydney. The town is famous for surfing, scuba diving, whale watching, and its laid-back atmosphere. While Byron Bay...
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Cairns & Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Cairns is located in Northern Queensland, Australia, and tourists flock to this tropical city to dive the Great Barrier Reef - the largest coral reef in the world, and the only single living structure on Earth that’s visible from space (not that...
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Cancun, Mexico
A popular diving hotspot in Mexico, where you can see Whale Sharks, dive the spectacular cenotes and visit the famous underwater sculture museum. Cancun is great for tourists, within easy driving distance of the Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen, a jumping...
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Cano Island, Costa Rica
Cano Island is a marine reserve located off of the south central pacific coast of Costa Rica. It has clear water as it is offshore and famous for many reef sharks. Wonderfully suited to divers and snorkelers alike, a visit here...
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Carriacou, Grenada
A gem among Caribbean islands; peaceful, quiet and unspoilt. Carriacou is volcanic in origin, with the island featuring rolling green hills, spectacular views of the surrounding sea and reefs and seemingly endless white sandy beaches. People are friendly and you can be...
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Cat Island, Bahamas
Home to the highest peak in the Bahamas, a huge 207 feet, Cat Island is a wonderful place to explore above and below the surface of the ocean. The Bahamas means “Shallow Seas” and consists of a group of 700 breathtaking islands...
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Chuuk, Micronesia
Steeped in history the floor of Chuuk lagoon is a wreck divers dream and by far the top wreck diving destination in the world. Chuuk, which used to be known as Truk is without question the top wreck diving location in...
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Cocos Island, Costa Rica
Hundreds of Hammerhead Sharks, amazing marine life and blue open ocean, Cocos Island is a once in a lifetime diving destination that any shark lovers must dive. Cocos Island is an island approx 550km off the coast of Costa Rica of tectonic...
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Colombo, Sri Lanka
Colombo is the commercial capital and has a range of new bars and restaurants as well as a fascinating old quarter, centered around the Dutch Fort, called Pettah for the history buffs. Mount Lavinia is the nearest beach to the city and...
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Cozumel, Mexico
Mexico’s largest inhabited island has exceptional crystal clear water, towering, spectacular coral formations and exciting drift dives along spectacular reefs! All of which have earned Cozumel its reputation as one of the World’s premier diving destinations. Cozumel Island known to the Maya as...
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Crystal Coast, USA
The three coastal communities in Carteret County, North Carolina form the Crystal Coast. Beaufort is the seat of the county and was one of the first coastal towns in North Carolina. In addition to being a great American wreck diving location, the...
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Dahab, Egypt
Dahab is quickly establishing itself as the go-to destination for laid back travelers. The town has its roots as a Bedouin outpost, which was transformed over the years into a backpacker’s paradise. Located between the desert and the sea, the activities here...
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Dauin, Philippines
University town Dumaguete is locally referred to as the city of gentle people. Many different bars and restaurants in town, live music at different locations most nights. With modern facilities such as hospitals, doctors, dentists, supermarkets and immigration office, Dumaguete is an...
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Dubai, United Arab Emirates
One of the fastest developing locations in the World, soon to boast the World’s largest shopping centre, indoor ski slope, Dubailand and luxury hotels. With many wrecks and a variety of dive trips available Dubai’s underwater world is worth a visit as...
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Efate (Port Vila), Vanuatu
Vanuatu is made up of 83 Island. Vanuatu has been voted the friendless country in the world, it is only a short flight from New Zealand and Australia with many interesting sites to visit and things to do. Efata is the most...
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Eilat, Israel
Eilat is the place that used to serve as a port to King Solomon’s large fleet of ships has now become a significant resort city that now serves as a tourist destination. Located at the northern end of the Bay of Eilat,...
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El Nido, Philippines
El Nido has been ranked one of the best beach and island destinations in the Philippines. The stunning beauty of the island is perfectly complimented by fantastic dive sites, which vary in intensity and style. El Nido is famed for its...
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El Quseir, Egypt
El Quseir is an ancient Egyptian town, located on the edge of the Red Sea. Today, it is a quiet resort town that draws in guests with its stunning beaches, clear waters, coral reefs and the remnants of the Ottoman Empire....
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Eleuthera, Bahamas
The pineapple capital of the Bahamas, Eleuthera has excellent diving on reefs and wrecks with the most natural wrecks of any other island. The Bahamas means “Shallow Seas” and consists of a group of 700 breathtaking islands at the top of the...
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Exmouth, Australia
Whale Sharks! The Ningaloo Reef off the coast of Exmouth, in Western Australia, is one of the few places left in the World where you can dive and swim with these majestic giants. Exmouth is a small town on the Coral...
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Faafu Atoll & Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives
Abundant Manta Rays and Whale Sharks and excellent channel dives, Faafu and Dhaalu Atolls are quickly becoming a top diving hotspot. Faafu and Dhaalu Atolls are also known as North and South Nilandhe. Diving the Maldives can be undertaken in two ways, either...
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Flamingo, Costa Rica
Flamingo is a stunning and small getaway on south of Gulf of Papagayo. It is famed for its stunning white sand beaches, its vibrant marine life and the variety of on-land activities. With idyllic weather and plenty of lavish amenities, it is...
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Gaafu Atoll, Maldives
The second largest atoll in the Maldives contains caves, steep drop offs and pristine reefs all waiting to be explored. Gaafu Atoll is also known as Huvadhoo Atoll and is one of the Southern Atolls in the Maldives. Diving the Maldives can be...
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Gili Islands, Indonesia
Coming alive in the diving community, the Gili Islands are a huge highlight of any scuba addict’s trip through Indonesia. Boasting abundance of sea turtles and coral life, the crystal clear water and shallow white beaches offer the castaway experience many built...
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Grand Bahama, Bahamas
Close up dolphin and shark encounters can be had in the waters around Grand Bahama, including dives at the famous Tiger Beach where you can get up close and personal with the amazing Tiger Shark! The Bahamas means “Shallow Seas” and consists...
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Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Grand Cayman is known for it's fantastic wall diving, healthy reefs, world class shore diving, excellent macro marine life and often with cobalt calm seas! There are 270 named dive sites with warm water and generally great visibility year round. Grand Cayman is...
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Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos
Home to a stunning protected coral reef that plunges to 8000 ft, Grand Turk has some great dive sites minutes from the shore. Grand Turk is part of the group of islands that makes up the Turks and Caicos Islands. With 8...
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Honiara, Solomon Islands
Remote and truly beautiful the Solomon Islands is a diver’s dream destination. Part of the coral triangle with a staggering diversity of marine species, coral and dive sites, it somehow remains one of the least dived areas of the world. A number of...
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Hurghada, Egypt
A gateway to some of the most exciting and diverse diving for all levels of divers, Hurghada is a good place to base yourself or to board a Liveaboard to explore the best that the Red Sea offers. It is set...
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Ibo Island, Quirimba’s Archipelago, Mozambique
Ibo Island is one of the stunning islands within the remote and pristine Quirimba’s Archipelago. Great diving exists alongside a number of nature-based activities and fascinating remnants from the slave trade and colonial rule. Ibo Island is the only developed island within the...
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Isla de la Juventud, Cuba
The enchanting island of Isla de la Juventud is one of Cuba’s best diving destinations for keen divers. The unspoilt beauty of the island has stunning coral reefs in its pure blue Caribbean waters plus the nearby breath taking Punta Frances Marine...
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Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Isla Mujeres (Island of Women) is a small 5-mile long island, located just across the bay from Cancun. As a former fishing village, the island retains a quaint local charm that sits in pleasant contrast to the development of Cancun. The large...
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Khao Lak, Thailand
An unspoilt environment on the beautiful Andaman coast, surrounded by National park forest, Khao Lak is ideally situated for diving in Thailand and trips to the Similan Islands and Surin Islands which are home to some of the best dive sites in...
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Koh Haa, Thailand
Koh Haa, more of a large dive site than a 'destination' is often dived from Koh Lanta. Koh Haa is also dived from Koh Phi Phi and Phuket (Phuket is significantly further away so these tend to be livaboards). Typically the best visibility...
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Koh Lanta, Thailand
A jewel in the Andaman Sea, Koh Lanta is a laidback, relaxed island close to some of the coasts best dive sites. Koh Lanta is a popular travel destination for a laidback holiday escapade but what really makes it different is...
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Koh Lipe, Thailand
A small, relatively unknown island on the Thai tourist circuit, Koh Lipe is still considered off the beaten path. There are no cars, you can walk everywhere and the stunning beaches with fine powdery sand are surrounded by numerous, even more stunning...
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Koh Phangan, Thailand
The second biggest island in the Gulf of Thailand, just north of Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan is ideally placed close to the stunning Ang Thong Marine Park and main dive sites of the area. Quieter and more remote than the...
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Koh Samui, Thailand
Practically the biggest island in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is perfectly seated next to the magnificent Ang Thong Marine Park. Its dive sites are stunning filled with rich marine ecosystem. Koh Samui is the perfect holiday getaway for people looking to...
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Koh Tao, Thailand
Koh Tao is considered by many as the main diving destination in the Gulf of Thailand primarily because of its shallow coral reefs teeming with marine life making it a particular favorite amongst beginner divers and snorkelers. Combined with a laid back...
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Komodo and Labuan Bajo, Indonesia
Komodo, located in the Lesser Sunda chain of Indonesia islands, is home to the famous Komodo Dragon, notably the largest lizard on earth. Oh, and there is some pretty spectacular diving too! This island also contains one of only seven worldwide pink sandy...
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Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Kota Kinabalu is located in separate Federal State of Malaysia in the north of the island of Borneo. Kota Kinabalu – KK more commonly – is the rapidly growing capital city of the state of Sabah. Modern, busy and fringed with resorts,...
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Krabi, Thailand
Krabi has around 160km of coastline and a range of islands, over 32 dive sites and endless snorkeling spots with pinnacles, underwater caves, rock formations, swim-throughs and wrecks. Because the majority of dive locations in Krabi are quite shallow, they are suitable for...
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Kupang, Indonesia
Kupang is located on Timor Island and is the capital city of the East Nusa Tenggara province (more commonly know in Bahasa Indonesia as Nusa Tenggara Timur or NTT) which consists of over 550 islands. NTT province is most famous for Komodo...
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Laamu Atoll, Maldives
Beautiful topography and pristine dives site, Laamu has excellent channel and shallower reef sites and is a favourite on a lot of liveaboard itineraries. Please note that Laamu Atoll is also known as Hadhdhunmathee Atoll! Diving the Maldives can be undertaken in two...
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Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives
A very popular atoll with picturesque resort islands, Lhaviyani is as beautiful underwater with a variety of dive site sites, including shipwrecks, channel diving and pretty reefs. Lhaviyani Atoll is also known as Faadhippolhu Atoll. Diving the Maldives can be undertaken in...
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Lissenung Island, Kavieng, Papua New Guinea
Lissenung Island is a tiny exclusive tropical island in Papua New Guinea. Located within the Coral Triangle, the dives on the doorstep of the island exist amidst one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. The only means of visiting this island is...
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Little Corn Island, Nicaragua
Little Corn Island is a beautiful and unspoiled with no cars and no roads. It’s a reminder of how other Caribbean islands used to be before big tourism took over. It's one of the most friendly islands you will ever visit,...
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Long Island, Bahamas
The most scenic island in the Bahamas, Long Island has amazing diving including the deepest Blue Hole in all the Bahamas. The Bahamas means “Shallow Seas” and consists of a group of 700 breathtaking islands at the top of the Caribbean above Cuba...
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Lord Howe Island, Australia
Lord Howe Island is one of seven world heritage listed islands in the world. It is often referred to as “the last paradise”. With no mobile phone reception and limited internet access it offers visitors a chance to get away from their...
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Mafia Island, Tanzania
Mafia Island is a relatively unknown and unexplored destination. The marine park was opened in 1996 and is in fact the biggest marine protected area in East Africa. Mafia boasts some of the best biodiversity with over 42 genera of corals and...
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Mahé, Seychelles
Set into the beautiful blue sea along with another 114 islands, Mahe is a perfect divers destination. The Seychelles is made up of 115 islands in two distinct groups, the Outer Islands and the Inner Islands. Mahe is part of the Inner islands...
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Male Atoll, Maldives
The best coral reefs in the Maldives are in Male’s brilliant blue waters. The most explored of all the atolls by divers due to its variety of dive sites, abundance of marine life and easy accessibility, Male is an excellent choice of...
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Marsa Alam, Egypt
One of Egypt’s fastest growing holiday destinations, until recently Marsa Alam was just a small fishing village, then since the introduction of the new international airport in 2001 its popularity is growing, and is soon expected to rival the larger resorts in...
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Meemu Atoll, Maldives
Providing many diving opportunities, Meemu Atoll has Thilas, Channels, inner atoll reefs, caves and drop offs which is enough to excite any diver! Meemu Atoll is also known as Mulaku Atoll. Diving the Maldives can be undertaken in two ways, either by land or...
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Middle Caicos, Turks and Caicos
The largest of the islands, Middle Caicos is an island of natural beauty, a more dramatic coastline than other islands and can reach some excellent dive sites. Middle Caicos is part of the group of islands that makes up the Turks and...
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Mtwara, Tanzania
Mikindani is a historic coastal trading town with a blend of Swahili, Arabic and colonial influence. It has a rich and colourful past having once been the regional capital of German East Africa, and was also where Dr David Livingstone based himself...
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Nassau, Bahamas
Turquoise water, soft powdery white sand beaches, world-class casinos, duty free shopping, and succulent seafood draw hundreds of thousands to Nassau, Bahamas every year. The Bahamian capital and tourist hot spot is located on New Providence Island, 290km (156 miles) southeast of Miami,...
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North Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Boasting the largest flock of pink flamingos in the islands and access to brilliant dive sites, North Caicos is a nature lovers getaway. North Caicos is part of the group of islands that makes up the Turks and Caicos Islands. With 8...
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Northern Atolls, Maldives
The northernmost atolls in the Maldives include Haa Alifu aka North Thiladhunmathee, Haa Dhaalu aka South Thiladhunmathee, Shaviyani aka North Miladhunmadulu and Noonu aka South Miladhunmadulu. Diving the Maldives can be undertaken in two ways, either by land or by a liveaboard. This...
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Nungwi, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar is the chosen destination after climbing Kilimanjaro or as end of the trip after a dusty safari. Because of its beautiful beaches and its charming locals, Zanzibar is the right place to rest and enjoy some of the best diving the...
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Okinawa, Japan
The Okinawa Prefecture is an archipelago in southern Japan that covers the southern two thirds of the Ryukyu Islands. The islands are divided into three geographical archipelagos called the Okinawa Islands, the Miyako Islands and the Yeyama Islands. The Kuroshio Current...
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Palau, Micronesia
Well known for its marine bio-diversity, spectacular wall dives and vibrant colourful reefs, Palau is a top diving destination which attracts divers worldwide to experience one of the most unique holiday destinations on the Planet. Palau is a group of over 200...
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Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
The islands of Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil are one of Malaysia’s top tourist attractions. They are surrounded by turquoise blue sea and lined with palm trees and white sand beaches providing an idyllic tropical island getaway. The Perhentian Islands...
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Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
One of the most beautiful areas in Thailand, the Phi Phi Islands dramatic landscape is just as beautiful underwater as it is above. Perfectly placed to access all the best dive sites of the area, Koh Phi Phi is a very...
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Phuket, Thailand
Thailand’s largest island and most popular tourist destination provides everything any holiday maker could want, exquisite white sand beaches, warm balmy turquoise sea, a busy nightlife, and more importantly access to the top Thailand diving. Phuket, also known as “The Pearl of...
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Playas del Coco, Costa Rica
Playas del Coco is a small beach town in the northern province of Guanacaste. It is known for its great diving and large marine life, along with frequent sightings of Bull Sharks. Set on the northern Pacific coast, Playas del Coco (El...
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Ponta D’Ouro, Mozambique
Ponta D'Ouro is an unspoilt diving location that can be reached easily from South Africa’s main hubs (7hrs from JHB, 4.5hrs from DBN) making it a good location even, for South Africans, for a a weekend diving getaway. Visitors to Ponta can...
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Port Douglas, Australia
Crystal-clear waters, beautiful corals and incredible fish-life can be found at Agincourt Ribbon Reefs, an easy day boat ride from Port Douglas and on the very outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Port Douglas is on the East coast of Australia...
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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
A location that is still relatively unknown, The Turks and Caicos Islands have some excellent unspoilt dive sites, crystal clear water and abundant reef life making this a premier diving area. The best known of the Islands, Providenciales is one of the...
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Puerto Galera, Philippines
The name Puerto Galera means “Port of Galleons”, and was used by the Spanish during colonial times as a safe haven for their ships during the typhoon season. Puerto Galera is located on the northern tip of Mindoro Island in the Philippines. It...
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Puerto Morelos, Mexico
The Riviera Maya is an all-inclusive destination in every sense of the word. Gorgeous beaches and crystal clear water, abundant nature, tropical climate, Mexican and Mayan culture, nightlife and cuisine, accommodations for all budgets, friendly people and activities to suit even the most...
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Raja Ampat, Indonesia
The reefs of the Raja Ampat are specifically referred to as ‘species factories’, replenishing other reef ecosystems by sweeping coral larvae across the Indian and Pacific Oceans via their strong currents. Raja Ampat is an archipelago of 1,500 islands, cays and shoals located...
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Rangiroa, French Polynesia
Rangiroa is the largest atoll in the Tuamotus, and is also one of the biggest in the world. This magical island is made up of roughly 415 motus, islets and sandbars – with over 100 narrow passageways bisecting through. Along with stunning...
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Ranong, Thailand
Ranong is the most northerly province on Thailand's Andaman coast and best known for its mangrove forests and hot springs. It's also a gateway to Myanmar, with longboats ferrying people and produce over the narrow divide that separates Thailand and Myanmar. Ranong Province...
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Redang Island, Malaysia
Crystal clear waters, abundant tropical fish just 50ft from white sandy beaches, Redang Island is one of largest Island off the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. The visibility is 18 metre to 20 metre and the light can penetrated down to 30 metres where...
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Roatan, Honduras
The largest of the Bay Islands, Roatan has pristine white sand beaches, amazing tropical jungle covered hills and a unique coral reef close to the shore. Any visitors will easily see why these islands are said to be the “Caribbean’s Best Kept...
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Saba Island, Dutch Caribbean
Saba is a tiny volcanic island in the Caribbean that offers unspoilt diving opportunities with virtually no crowds. This 13 square kilometer island is officially part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands – though English is the primary language – and has...
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Saipan, USA
Saipan is a part of the Commonwealth of the United States, and the largest island in the North Mariana Islands Chain. Saipan has a unique island ecosystem, and many opportunities to experience a variety of dive environments. There are underwater caves...
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Sal, Cape Verde
Sal, which is Portuguese for salt, is one of the northern group of islands of the Cape Verde archipelago and is home to the area’s main airport. At 35 kilometres long by 12 kilometres wide, Sal it is geologically the oldest...
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Salt Cay, Turks and Caicos
The best kept secret of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Salt Cay is the ultimate getaway, total adventure and relaxation at its finest. No crowds, no cruise ships and no casinos and a diver’s paradise. Salt Cay is part of the group...
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Samoa, Polynesia
Samoa is found within Polynesia and is located almost equidistant from Hawaii and Australia. It has a rich cultural history, colonised millennia ago by the Lapita. The earliest known evidence of human occupation are pottery shards of a Lapita village near Mulifanua,...
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San Andrés Island, Colombia
San Andres is a stunning coral island located east of Nicaragua, though formally a part of Colombia. With warm waters and vibrant reefs of soft and hard corals, sponges and countless tropical fish, this is a lesser-visited Caribbean destination. The seahorse-shaped island...
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San Salvador, Bahamas
World class wall diving, frequent visits by hammerheads and striking topography, San Salvador is a must for divers visiting the Bahamas. The Bahamas means “Shallow Seas” and consists of a group of 700 breathtaking islands at the top of the Caribbean above Cuba...
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Sapodilla Cayes, Belize
The Belize barrier reef, a UNESCO world heritage site, is the second largest barrier reef in the world and boasts an incredible spectacle of marine life. The Sapodilla Caye is made up of 8 small beautiful islands located 35 miles from mainland...
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Seenu Atoll, Maldives
The southernmost island in the Maldives, Seenu isinternationally famous for its wrevck dives and abundance of large pelagic such as mantas, turtles and sharks throughout the year. Seenu Atoll is also known as Addu Atoll and located just south of the equator. Diving...
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Semporna, Malaysia
The islands off Semporna are world famous for its abundant marine life and tiny islands offering white sandy beaches shaded by lush tropical vegetation. The gateway to those islands is the small seaside town of Semporna where many small hotels and...
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Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
The most popular diving destination in the Red Sea, the waters around Sharm El Sheikh offer some of the most stunning and famous dive sites not just in the Red Sea but also the World. Sharm el Sheikh is located on Egypt’s...
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Sipadan, Malaysia
Turtles, Turtles and more Turtles everywhere! Pulau Sipadan is a dream dive location that is on every diver’s wish list! Sipadan is another island that was made famous by legendary Jacques Cousteau when he raved about the diving here and called it...
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Sipalay, Philippines
Sipalay is known as 'jeweled city in Southern Negros,' with a range of dive sites that are suitable for beginners. The 1km-long Sugar Beach is seldom visited and its gentle slope makes it suitable for swimming. Visitors can relax at...
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Sodwana Bay, South Africa
Sodwana Bay has beautiful reefs on planet with huge diversity of marine life with good all year round diving. Located on the north east coastline of South Africa, Sodwana Bay has a rich natural biodiversity both on land and in...
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Solitary Islands Marine Park, Australia
The Solitary Islands Marine Park is where the tropical waters of the East Australian Current meet the southern temperate waters. Located just off the shores of the ever-pleasant Coffs Harbor, which is coincidentally surrounded by a phenomenal number of national parks, this diving...
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South Caicos, Turks and Caicos
The fishing capital of the islands, South Caicos attracts those interested in birdlife, fishing, diving, fresh seafood and history South Caicos is part of the group of islands that makes up the Turks and Caicos Islands. Located at the southern tip of the...
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South West Rocks, Australia
Visitors have long come to South West Rocks to take in its natural beauty in the great outdoors. Buildings date back to the 1800s in this sleepy coastal resort which lies near the mouth of the Macleay River. Go here to...
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St. Croix, US Virgin Islands
St. Croix is famous for being The Carribean's best kept secret! The an unheard of Gem of Caribbean diving, offering two dramatically different diving experiences only a 20min drive apart. The Wall brings a rich diversity of life, mixing the richness and nutrients...
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St. Eustatius, Dutch Caribbean
Small friendly island with no mass tourism less than 100 hotel rooms and only 3000 inhabitants. Sint Eustatius (“Statia”) is a tiny haven in the Caribbean for divers. Immediately off the dock of the island are 7 distinct eco systems, with walls,...
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Tahiti, French Polynesia
Tahiti is the largest of the more than 100 islands spread over five archipelagos in the South Pacific, that make up French Polynesia. The landscape of the island is almost as spectacular above sea level, as the underwater paradise that lies below...
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Taveuni, Fiji
White Sand beaches lined with swaying Palm trees and beautiful blue water full of life, Fiji really is a tropical paradise. Known to many divers as “The Soft Coral Capital of the World” you can witness wondrous colourful displays when the coral...
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Thaa Atoll, Maldives
Abundant marine life and great channel diving; Thaa Atoll is also known as Kolhumadulu Atoll. Diving the Maldives can be undertaken in two ways, either by land or by a liveaboard. This choice entirely depends on the type of holiday you are after,...
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The Abacos, Bahamas
The Bahamas means “Shallow Seas” and this is no more evident than in the Abacos islands. Arranged along the eastern side of the little Bahamas bank, the Abacos islands cover over 263 square hectares (650 square miles) in the northern portion of...
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The Exumas, Bahamas
Great Diving, easy reefs, blue holes and a peaceful scenic setting, the Exumas are a great location in the Bahamas to visit. The Bahamas means “Shallow Seas” and consists of a group of 700 breathtaking islands at the top of the Caribbean above...
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Timor Leste (East Timor), Timor
As the newest country in Asia, Timor Leste has an amazing natural beauty both above and below the water which is very much unspoilt. Located in the eastern end of the archipelago making up Indonesia and just north of Australia, the...
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Tioman Island, Malaysia
The largest island on the East coast of the Malay Peninsula, Tioman is a wonderful holiday and diving destination offering a variety of underwater sites such as wrecks, sheltered bays and volcanic rocky pinnacles. The densely forested island is surrounded by numerous...
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Tobago
Tobago is still one of the true Caribbean islands left which have not been spoilt. It features many beautiful beaches around the island with palm trees & blue seas making diving Tobago a true experience. When diving in Tobego there are over...
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Tokunoshima, Japan
Although not as well known as Okinawa, Tokunoshima is the perfect place to get away from busy city life, with spectacular view points overlooking the coral coast line and a range of water sports available with good surfing, scuba diving, body boarding,...
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Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Tortola is renound for it pristine waters and friendly people and is know as Natures Little Secret. It is also know as the sailing capital of the world. Tortola is famous for the Wreck of the Rhone location of the movie...
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Unawatuna, Sri Lanka
Unawatuna is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka, it is close to the Unesco site & world Heritage Galle Fort alond with the international cricket stadium. The area has many budget & boutique accommodation sharing great beaches with excellent restaurants....
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Unguja, Tanzania
Unspoilt by the effects of mass tourism, with year round sunshine and a great close by reef, Zanzibar – locally known as Unguja – is an ideal scuba diving destination. Zanzibar Archipelago off the coast of Tanzania consists of two large islands,...
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Utila, Honduras
The smallest of Honduras’ Bay Islands but most famous for its frequent sightings of the largest fish in the World, the Whale Shark! Utila is part of a group of islands called the Bay Islands located off the north coast of Honduras....
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Vaavu Atoll, Maldives
Wonderful Channel diving, Vaavu Atoll is a very popular choice with divers and liveaboard cruises. Vaavu Atoll is also known as Felidhe Atoll and is the atoll below South Male Atoll. Diving the Maldives can be undertaken in two ways, either...
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Vanua Levu, Fiji
Once a wild colonial outpost known as Sandalwood Island, Vanua Levu is now one of Fiji’s more laid-back destinations. Travellers will find a range of accommodations from backpacker hostels to five-star resorts with world class dining and facilities. Vanua Levu offer visitors a...
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Watamu, Kenya
A small peaceful beach resort, Watamu has some of Kenya’s finest diving in its nearby protected waters of Watamu Marine Reserve. Watamu is home to 20 prime diving locations, all within less than 35 minutes from the main beach town. Dives...
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Weligama, Sri Lanka
Weligama translates to mean “sandy village”, in reference to the town’s sand-swept bay. Located only 2.5 hours from the capital of Sri Lanka, this area is visited for its large number of nudibranches, pinnacles, blue whales, whale sharks and manta rays. The...
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West Palm Beach, USA
Palm Beach County Florida is famous for it’s great year round weather, many golf courses, diving, shopping on Worth Avenue and City Place and an abundance of activities for all ages. As a tiny island located just north of Fort Lauderdale and...
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Yap Islands, Micronesia
Mention Yap to a group of divers, and visions of Mantas will dance in their heads. There are some impressively large specimens in residence in the channels and bays around Yap. But Yap is about more than just Manta Rays. There...
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Zihuatanejo, Mexico
Zihuatanejo is a quiet Mexican fishing town that neighbours the resort centered town of Ixtapa. While it has developed extensively since the 1970s, the town retains an old world Mexican charm alongside modern amenities and, great diving. Zihuatanejo is small fishing village...
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