We've featured our 'Best Scuba Diving in the World' list in previous blogs, but today's post takes a more in-depth look at Bluewater's favorite dive destinations.
1. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Best Bit: Galapagos is a nature-lovers paradise, with large numbers of unique creatures both above and below the water. It's one of the best places in the world to dive with schooling hammerheads, whale sharks, Mola mola, marine iguana, and diving sea birds.
When to Go: This depends on what you want to see. December to May is warmer and calmer, with the best chance of spotting manta rays and schooling hammerheads. November to June is cooler with potentially rougher surface conditions, but this attracts more pelagic life including plenty of whale sharks.
Water Temperature: Warm Season 70-86°F (21-30°C), Cold Season 60-75°F (16-24°C).
Skill Level: Challenging conditions make this destination best suited to experienced divers. Chop and swell at the surface, strong currents, down-currents, and thermoclines are all commonplace.
2. Jardines de la Reina, Cuba
Best Bit: One of the largest and most authentic reef systems in the Caribbean, diving Jardines de la Reina is a snapshot back in time to an unspoiled paradise. Experience vibrant reefs covered in hundreds of types of coral and sponge, numerous shark species, and the chance to encounter an American saltwater crocodile!
When to Go: Cuba is a year-round dive destination.
Water Temperature: 73-77°F (23-25°C), up to 83°F (28°C) in the height of summer.
Skill Level: There is a range of diving to suit all skill levels.
3. Mainland Mexico
Best Bit: Mexico offers a huge range of exciting dive experiences from the stunning wall dives of Cozumel through to some of the world's best freshwater caverns and caves. The Sea of Cortez is a mecca for large pelagics and cetaceans as well as resident sea lions and the world's largest congregation of whale sharks.
When to Go: Mexico's Caribbean coast can be dive year-round, but the best time to visit the southwest is between September and November.
Water Temperature: Caribbean 77-85°F (25-29°C), the Cenotes area few degrees cooler. The Sea of Cortez ranges between 68 and 84°F (20 and 28°C).
Skill Level: Such a wide range of diving offers sites for everyone, including some great snorkeling.
4. Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Best Bit: Without question, Raja Ampat is the most marine-diverse spot on the planet, holding the record for the highest number of fish species recorded in a single dive. At the heart of the Coral Triangle, divers will be blown away by the sheer volume of colorful tropical creatures amidst vibrant reef systems packed with life.
When to Go: Most liveaboards visit between October and May when conditions are most favorable.
Water Temperature: Averaging 80-86°F (27-30°C) year-round.
Skill Level: Strong currents are often present, so some experience is required.
5. Anilao, Philippines
Best Bit: Arguably the best muck diving destination in the world, Anilao attracts macro photographers and critter hunters from around the globe to search its shallow sites for weird and wonderful marine creatures. Thanks to the region's range of habitats, a huge variety of unique and rare miniature species can be found in higher numbers than almost anywhere else.
When to Go: Anilao is diveable year-round, although October to June is the main dive season.
Water Temperature: 80°F (27°C) year-round.
Skill Level: Easy diving with an emphasis on photography.
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