24
Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA What’s Bubbling ALL NEW Liveaboard Adventures INDONESIA Remarkable Liveaboards UNIQUE JOURNEYS Insider Guide THE CORAL TRIANGLE Dive Together SMALL GROUP TRIPS

Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

  • Upload
    others

  • View
    1

  • Download
    0

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Winter/Spring | 2019/2020

The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA

What’s Bubbling ALL NEW

Liveaboard Adventures INDONESIA

Remarkable Liveaboards UNIQUE JOURNEYS

Insider Guide THE CORAL TRIANGLE

Dive Together SMALL GROUP TRIPS

Page 2: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure2

The Sardine Run Fancy your chances?

Editor of SCUBA magazine, Simon Rogerson, travelled with us on an extraordinary trip to South Africa this summer with a quest to witness the famous annual ‘Sardine Run’.

It was my third day out on the inflatable. We’d been covering up to 50 miles a day, scouring South Africa’s

wild coast for the elusive baitballs that attract a parade of predators in mid-July. There was no shortage of action – bottlenose and common dolphins, several humpbacks and one southern right whale – but the famous schools were proving hard to pin down. There had been a few tantalising moments when we got close – on day one, a Bryde’s whale burst though the swell and devoured a school in a single gulp. The baitball was, briefly, an awesome thing to see.

So there I was, feeling sweaty in my 7mm wetsuit … and then everything changed. John, the driver, received a tip-off and all of a sudden we were on the move. Whatever had been spotted was a) out of the ordinary and b) not likely to hang around. The unmistakable sight of black and white shapes breaking the surface meant only one thing – a pod of orcas. The skipper sized up their behaviour and said: ‘We’re going to motor ahead of them and drop you in the water.’ It was too good an opportunity to pass up. Behind my mask I felt unnaturally calm, almost as if I was somewhere else watching it

happen. I finned away from the wash of the boat’s engines and looked down at shafts of sunlight cutting through the water. A dark shape broke the surface, maybe 15 metres away. Where before I was sunburned and sluggish, I was now coursing with adrenaline and completely in the moment.

I lifted the camera to my eyes and somehow the autofocus managed to lock on to this astonishing, perfect animal as she swam towards me. There was no fear. I remember thinking: ‘Oh! She’s just a big dolphin’, as the orca approached and dived, looking up at me

Page 3: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 3

The Sardine Run Fancy your chances?

Welcome It has been a busy few months for us here at Dive Worldwide with the team out and about across the world finding the finest dive locations for your next diving adventure!

In this issue, Lewis Copper checks out Grenada’s underwater highlights and Cath Bates reports on the best resorts for accessible diving. Manager, Phil North, describes diving on Papua New Guinea’s ‘jaw-dropping’ reefs, and Charlie Munns and Mat Howell share their incredible liveaboard experiences in Indonesia.

Editor of SCUBA magazine, Simon Rogerson, travelled with us to experience South Africa’s renowned Sardine Run (see left) and we are excited to introduce new resorts, trips and liveaboards in Mozambique, Egypt, the Philippines, Raja Ampat and Bali. Due to popular demand we have expanded our collection of small group trips, and are delighted to launch new trips with expert photographers Saeed Rashid to Indonesia and Danny Copeland to St Helena. If you’re looking for something special, hop onboard one of our remarkable liveaboard journeys.

We hope that you like our bumper issue and find plenty to inspire your next diving holiday!

Dive Worldwide Team ContentsThe Sardine Run 2-3

What’s Bubbling – All New 4-5

The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7

Grenada & Carriacou 8

Papua New Guinea 9

Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11

Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Seasonal Underwater Escapes 14-17

The Coral Triangle 18-19

Small Group Dive Trips 20

St Helena 21

Diving into Conservation 22-23

as I froze mid-water. For this fleeting encounter with the ocean’s alpha predator, I will always be grateful. I had five days on the Sardine Run and saw truly amazing things, including sharks and dolphins feeding on an anchovy shoal. Friends on different boats got in the water with right whales and humpbacks. You never know what you’re going to see, and you have to be prepared for long periods of quiet, punctuated by moments of frenzied action. But when the Sardine Run delivers, be ready to reap the rewards.

Each year, around June, one of the most amazing spectacles in the animal kingdom takes place off the KwaZulu Natal coastline. Witness the ‘Greatest Shoal on Earth’ as millions of sardines migrate along South Africa’s eastern coastline. Dive and snorkel with thousands of dolphins, seals, sharks, whales, and even birds.

11 days from £2,695Jun-Jul

Sardine Run Adventure

Orca and other images by Simon Rogerson

Our Diving HolidaysWe offer exceptional tailor-made and small group liveaboard and resort-based dive holidays in over 190 destinations worldwide. Our holidays cater for beginners and experienced divers, specific interests such as muck, wreck, technical, underwater photography or particular marine life such as sharks and rays. With almost 20 years’ experience, our friendly Dive team includes highly experienced divers who keep up-to-date with new and exciting places to dive, and take pleasure in hand picking the best diving and snorkelling experiences for you!

Cover: Hawksbill turtle

For full details about our dive holidays in South Africa contact our expert team or visit our website.

Page 4: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

What’s BubblingPlease find a selection of our new destinations, resorts and liveaboards below and on our website. To keep up-to-date, sign up to ‘What’s Bubbling’, our regular e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The Anilao coastline has long been a firm favourite amongst locals and weekend visitors from Manila; however, its rise as a special macro marine life hotspot is relatively new. Photographers take note. This boutique dive resort offers panoramic ocean views and a tranquil environment. The property features 24 stylish rooms and suites with modern amenities. Facilities include a restaurant and bar with open-air dining options, a spa, infinity pool with dive training area and a

dive centre with a well appointed camera room. The custom-designed outriggers comfortably accommodate eight divers, cameras and two experienced guides. Whilst underwater highlights are centred on the prolific macro subjects, sharks, rays and schooling pelagics are often seen, especially on the deeper reefs. There are regular visits to Verde Island and Puerto Galera as well as the local sites. 10 days from £2,675

Aiyanar Beach & Dive Resort, PhilippinesA popular liveaboard amongst divers, the Infiniti has a new look and moved to solely operate throughout the year in the Philippines. Comfortably accommodating 22 guests in its nine standard and two deluxe cabins (the latter located on the upper deck), she features a number of lounges where you can relax and spend ‘down time’, a furnished sundeck, self-serve bar and a dedicated camera room. Up to four dives a day are led by the expert guides, and PADI

courses are available. The sought-after six-night Tubbataha itinerary operates from March to June and is recommended for experienced divers. The rest of the year is spent exploring the Visayas region and the six-night trips are suitable for divers of all abilities plus their snorkelling friends and family. Life onboard feels homely and the diving experience is very special indeed. 10 days from £3,575 (Tubbataha itinerary)

Infiniti Liveaboard, Philippines

Created specifically for scuba divers and kite surfers, Breakers Diving & Surfing Lodge in Soma Bay is a place where you can easily disconnect from the humdrum of daily life, and reconnect with the sea. A retreat for the more discerning Red Sea diver, the resort’s exceptional scuba diving opportunities are complemented by a touch of luxury topside, with facilities on offer including a spa, sauna, gym, yoga studio and a restaurant offering creative culinary delights

from around the world. The onsite dive centre adheres to the highest standards, and caters for beginner and experienced divers alike. The exceptional house reef is a draw for many. More experienced divers will be enthralled by the stunning corals and drop-offs of Panorama Reef, one of the largest single reefs in Safaga which gets its name from the superb views possible from its plateaux and vertical walls. 8 days from £1,195

Breakers Diving & Surfing Lodge, EgyptWe are delighted to introduce trips to Egypt in the Dive Worldwide portfolio, including liveaboards (see website for details). Those looking to get away from it all without travelling to the ends of the Earth may find their oasis at the all inclusive Wadi Lahmy Azur Resort. Located in the far south of the Egyptian Red Sea this spacious, 128-room resort promises understated luxury, unspoiled white sand beaches, and exceptional diving away from the crowds.

Enjoy a range of facilities including a freshwater outdoor pool and beach restaurant. The onsite dive centre provides access to the house reef, along with diving opportunities to the seldom-visited Fury Shoal reefs. Blessed with around 35 dive sites, the region supports some of the most exceptional corals in the Red Sea, blossoming into wonderful coral gardens and pinnacles teeming with marine life. 8 days from £1,245

Wadi Lahmy Azur Resort, Egypt

Holiday prices are based on two persons sharing, including flights from the UK, accommodation, transfers and diving, except where specified. Prices correct at time of print (October 2019).

Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure4

Page 5: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Located towards the northern, secluded end of Tofo beach this intimate, family-run dive resort is within a short walk of local amenities and a perfect setting for divers. The beachfront property features 11 individual bungalows set amongst tropical gardens, each comfortably accommodating two guests. Relax amongst, and chat with, like-minded people around the resort or at the al fresco Happi restaurant which serves vegetarian cuisine. Guests can enjoy a dip in the

pool, yoga and plenty of other activities in addition to diving. The marine biodiversity in this region is incredible, yet the stars of the show are manta rays (alfredi and birostris) and whale sharks, ever present in these plankton-rich waters. Expect incredible encounters and a lot more besides; several species of shark, rays and turtles as well as bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen. 10 days from £2,495

Liquid Dive Adventures, Mozambique

ALL NEW

Waiwo Resort accommodates 20 guests in a variety of room types including garden terrace, sea view and waterfront villas. All are amply furnished and feature twin beds or a double, air-conditioning and en suite bathroom. Located on the southern coast of Waisai island, the resort is a two-hour fast ferry transfer from Sorong. Other activities, including sightseeing and trekking, are available. The onsite dive centre, Dive into Raja Ampat, is open for business and continually developing to mirror its

sister property in Lembeh. The day begins with a two-tank dive, followed by a third after lunch. There are upwards of 30 local dive sites to visit within just 60 minutes’ speed boat journey. Long distance and specialist sites are available but subject to minimum numbers. PADI courses are also possible. Located at the heart of the Coral Triangle, underwater highlights are as diverse as they are numerous. 11 days from £3,375

Dive into Raja Ampat, Indonesia Join like-minded explorers in travelling to the stunning Indonesian island of Bali for a fantastic diving and cultural adventure. This small group trip includes time in traditionally built properties on the north coast of the island at Pondok Sari, as well as in the north-east at Alam Anda. Enjoy six dives from each resort, including sites at Menjangan Island and the Liberty wreck. Expect colourful reefs, plenty of fish and numerous critters. In addition, there is a great deal to

see topside including visits to ornate Hindu temples, waterfall walks, a trip to the local market with a traditional cooking class and time in the cultural hub of Bali. But don’t worry! There’s also time to relax – a half hour spa treatment is included at each resort. This is a fantastic trip idea for those seeking an authentic Indonesian experience in search of an activity-packed holiday with a difference.

16 days from £2,675

Dive & Culture in Bali

Departing from Walindi Resort on New Britain in Papua New Guinea, this 27-metre-long catamaran operates seasonal diving adventures in the Bismark Sea and beyond. The eight-night ‘Signature’ and ‘Mid-Year’ itineraries visit the seamounts and lush coral gardens of Kimbe Bay, colourful reefs and black sand bays of the Witu Islands and the offshore Fathers Reefs. Expect volcanic reefscapes, resident schools of pelagics, sharks, rays, turtles, dolphins

and the occasional sighting of a whale (including orca). In addition, ten-night exploratory trips to Milne Bay are scheduled for 2020 and beyond. The boat accommodates 16 divers in five twin bed and three double bed en suite cabins, all with air-conditioning and an ocean view. Guest areas include a large dive deck with camera facilities and a furnished sundeck. Diving is either from the mother ship or tender. 14 days from £5,395

MV Oceania, Papua New Guinea

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 5

Page 6: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Senior Travel Consultants Charlie Munns and Mat Howell visited Komodo National Park and Raja Ampat by liveaboard and would return in a heartbeat.

Indonesian LiveaboardsIncredible year-round adventures

Located in the heart of the renowned Coral Triangle, and boasting the highest marine diversity on the planet, Indonesia is a diver’s dream destination, with

plenty to see all year round. From manta rays and seasonal mola mola around Nusa Lembongan, muck diving in the Lembeh Strait, critters and breathtaking drop-offs in the Banda Islands, hammerheads and drift diving in the Alor Archipelago, Indonesia is a must for any keen diver!

Both Raja Ampat and Komodo are high on any diver’s wish list and, often, exploring these incredible locations is best

done by liveaboard. Such is the region’s popularity, many of the boats spend time in each during the year, optimising the diving experience. It’s also possible to hop onboard as they relocate, exploring areas that are seldom visited: a truly memorable experience.

Although we can’t recommend these two boats highly enough, you are genuinely spoilt for choice in Indonesia (see opposite). If you’re looking for world-class diving and a liveaboard experience to match, Indonesia is hard to beat.

Although new destinations or itineraries are rare, a few options have recently gained notoriety for their quality, value and accessibility. And Komodo is on this short-list, for sure. I jumped at the opportunity to

experience this for myself, from the luxury of the Mermaid ll. Both Mermaid fleet boats depart from Bali for Komodo, so it makes sense to combine these with a few nights relaxing in a resort before or after.

From the moment I stepped onboard, I felt comfortable and welcome. The crew were exceptional and worked hard to deliver a five-star service both onboard and underwater. The itinerary includes 20 dives, each a memorable experience and with such a variety, no two days were the same. We drifted along the pristine reefs of Moyo and Sangeang, searched out critters on other sites and always kept an eye on the blue for pelagic life. There is something magical about diving with mantas, and the thing that always gets me is the silence. ‘Manta Alley’ did not disappoint.

The itinerary includes time to visit a local village, plenty of incredible sunsets, an impressive and ever-changing topography and the chance to see the Komodo dragon.

Komodo LiveaboardOne of Indonesia’s most iconic and exciting diving areas, the vast Komodo National Park is best dived by liveaboard to fully appreciate the area’s riches, which include critters, sharks, manta rays, Napoleon wrasse and turtles.

11 days from £2,895 Apr-Nov

Charlie’s trip aboard the Mermaid II to Komodo While Indonesia harbours many diving gems, Raja Ampat is hard to beat for its diversity of marine life, stunning turquoise waters and jungle-clad island scenery. I jumped at the chance to hop on the Dewi Nusantara

(during the so-called ‘off-season’) and found that not only did the region live up to its world-class reputation, so did the beautiful, luxurious schooner and its entire crew.

The 11-night trip includes 36 dives and I’m certain that some of these will make it to your ‘most memorable dives of all time’ list. Encounters with enormous mantas – oceanic and reef – were met with a smile, and the most special dive sites during our trip simply had to be Magic Mountain and Melissa’s Garden with so many huge schools of fish – a pure delight! We saw some incredible marine life, from tiny crabs and pygmy seahorses to several sharks including the enigmatic wobbegong and the reef ‘walking’ endemic epaulette.

There’s more to Raja Ampat than marine life. With its unique topography, flora and fauna there are plenty of off-the-beaten-track places to explore where you feel like you’re the only people there. The rewards are incredible, no matter when you choose to travel.

Raja Ampat LiveaboardJoin a liveaboard adventure in Raja Ampat, the most biodiverse marine region on Earth! Choose from a variety of vessels and itineraries to discover majestic islands with sharks, manta rays, turtles and enormous schools of fish.

12-18 days from £4,495 Nov-Apr

Mat sailed on the Dewi Nusantara in Raja Ampat

Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure6

Page 7: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

The luxurious Tambora phinisi liveaboard is very much a pioneer of diving itineraries throughout the Indonesian archipelago, and each year visits the old favourites as well as new locations, most not yet on the diver’s map.

Accommodating ten passengers in five cabins, the Calico Jack is an intimate and fun boat to dive from. She visits the best dive spots throughout the year, seeking exceptional diving experiences and topside adventure.

Emperor Divers feature the elegant MY Raja Laut and the MY Harmoni, two outstanding boats offering all you need for an incredible diving experience. Both offer seasonal itineraries in diving hotspots throughout Indonesia.

Visiting remote areas, exploratory diving is very much the focus onboard the Maluku Explorer as she exclusively cruises the South Halmahera region throughout the year. A must-visit option for pioneering divers.

Call Charlie Munns or Mat Howell to discuss your next Indonesian liveaboard dive adventure.

Visit our Blog to read the full versions of Charlie and Mat’s adventures in Indonesia.

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 7

Page 8: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure8

The island of Grenada and its smaller sister island, Carriacou, have plenty to attract beginner and experienced divers alike. Travel Consultant Lewis Copper visited earlier this year …

A relaxing twin-centre holiday to the vibrant spice island of Grenada and the tiny island of Carriacou where you’ll find wrecks, pristine reefs with forests of soft corals, and plenty of turtles and rays. This holiday is a great choice no matter what your diving experience and is also perfect for a non-diving companion.

15 days from £2,875Jan-Dec

Spice Island Discovery

Well known amongst experienced divers for its wreck diving, the Caribbean islands of Grenada

and Carriacou have just as much to offer beginner divers as well as being an ideal destination for non-diving partners and friends throughout the year. Keen to explore the wrecks and reefs, I set off on a whirlwind trip to discover and dive these beautiful islands – an experience only made better by the friendliness of the Grenadian people, the vibrant culture and the brilliant cuisine on offer.

A blast of heat as I stepped off the plane indicated that I had arrived in the tropics and a short drive took me to True Blue Bay Boutique Resort, a popular and colourful resort in the far south of Grenada. I was lucky enough to be hosted in an eco-friendly Cocoa Pod room, where I would spend the next two days. Aquanauts Grenada took me to dive the Bianca C, one of the main reasons for visiting the island; the wreck is so large it needs more than one dive to do it justice. Another site for the log book is Purple Rain, which

takes its name from the shoals of fusiliers that appear to rain down on the reef. As the sun sets, the evening entertainment comes in the form of the island’s street food extravaganza at the renowned ‘Dodgy Dock’, with live music to accompany.

An evening ferry transfer brought me to the much smaller island of Carriacou, or the ‘land of reefs’ as it’s known locally. This laid-back island is a microcosm of the Caribbean, a place to relax and unwind, with panoramic ocean views and even better dive sites. Deefer Diving runs a sound operation. Our first dive to Two Sisters was a thrill – the reefs are well intact and large schools of fish can be seen all around, whilst barracuda and tarpon dart amongst the two outcroppings. Another dive on Sharkies impressed, with seahorses, nudibranch, cleaner shrimp, and beautiful soft and hard corals.

On my return to the picturesque island of Grenada my focus was to experience some of the signature dive sites with Dive Grenada. I began with the relatively new

Tyrell Bay wreck, which is covered in soft corals. Shoals of fish circled around us, and the swim-throughs inside the wreck are great for new wreck divers. I also had the chance to dive the famous Sculpture Park which has brilliant photo opportunities; I even saw a frogfish on the one of them.

My week in paradise was topped with a visit to the Grenada Chocolate Company and the Rivers Rum Distillery. I can’t wait to go back!

For our full range of holidays to Grenada and all of the Caribbean, visit our website or contact our Dive team.

Spice Islands of the Caribbean Grenada & Carriacou

Page 9: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Dive Worldwide Manager, Phil North, describes his trip to PNG, diving on the best reefs he’s ever experienced in ‘jaw-dropping’ visibility!

As we circled above Port Moresby, our flight captain came on the intercom to inform passengers

he would make a final attempt to land. At the end of a long journey from the UK, we had found magical ribbons of low-lying mist between the hills and mountains, obscuring our final approach. After waiting for the early morning sun to burn away the worst of the mist, our skilled pilot made another approach and, thankfully, got us safely to the ground. Just getting to Papua New Guinea can be an adventure.

I was staying at Tufi Dive Resort and, as soon as I was able, I explored the house reef – a muck dive with nudibranch and other critters hidden amongst debris and WWII relics (Tufi was a base for the Australians in WWII). The real draws are the outer reefs and bommies that dot this region. Oh, my! What reefs they are! Jaw-dropping visibility meant we barely needed to dive; the entire reef top was clearly visible from our boat. The reefs here drop down to around 600 metres, ensuring vibrant coral and marine life, and also the promise of pelagics.

Our visit in May happened to coincide with the best time of year for possible hammerhead sightings, including rare white hammerheads that can occasionally be seen in this area. There are also opportunities to see grey reef, silvertip and reef sharks, plus tuna, trevally and the like. Reef life includes batfish, barracuda, clownfish, turtles, endless fusiliers and so much more. We managed two full days’ diving on the outer reefs, days that will be treasured for a long time to come.

It is so difficult to compare one dive region to another, but I genuinely think these might be the finest reefs I have ever dived. It was such a privilege. And did we see the elusive white hammerhead? We certainly did!

The undiscovered Tufi region is blessed with stunning marine diversity and pristine WWII dive sites, as well as majestic fjords which are perfect for kayaking. This trip also offers a fascinating insight into PNG’s indigenous culture.

14 days from £3,895Jan-Dec

Adventure in Tufi

For our full range of holidays to PNG, visit our website or contact our expert Dive team.

Dazzling Reefs, Critters & SharksPapua New Guinea

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 9

Page 10: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Access All AreasInsider guide to accessible diving holidays

As an instructor who worked abroad for 11 years, I would see many disabled divers playing it safe and going back

to the same destination over and over again. Accessible holidays in general are not yet the norm as wheelchair-accessible facilities are not the law in many countries. Finding an accessible diving holiday can therefore be somewhat of a challenge, but one that we’re up for!

I have met some pretty inspirational people along the way. Below they share their stories and some top tips to make sure an accessible diving holiday is a success.

Laura Collinson (main picture) and I are old diving buddies. We used to work together before her accident and she began her dive adventures back in 1999 in Egypt with the Back Up Trust. She has since dived in more than 11 destinations including Coron and Moalboal in the Philippines, and Lembeh in Indonesia.

It’s not all been plain sailing and she quickly realised that questions need to be asked before just turning up. ‘Check door widths and bathroom dimensions. Look at pictures online and discuss with the dive centre the help you require and the type of boats used.’

Laura recommends joining a dive club as a great way of getting support and assistance as well as chatting to other disabled divers and support groups such as the Scuba Trust.

Alan Kenny is 78 years young. We’ve dived together in Egypt and Indonesia and he often goes on trips with the Scuba Trust. When planning a diving holiday, his priority is all about the marine life and then he looks at the logistics.

Whilst a wheelchair accessible room is essential, he can do without a roll-in shower if there’s a shower on the dive boat. For him what is really important is a dive team and boat crew who can ‘think outside the box’ and listen to his requirements.

‘I describe to them how I get into the water from the dive platform and on return to the boat after

Travel Consultant Cath Bates has worked and dived with plenty of divers, some of whom require a little extra when planning their next trip …

diving; also how I de-kit in the water and how I need to be lifted.’

One of Alan’s favourite places to visit is Tasik Ria Resort & Spa. He’s been back plenty of times and it’s mainly thanks to the staff, who have become like family and are always willing to help.

For Invictus Games athlete Luke Delahunty it’s all about access to the bed and bathroom facilities. Anything else is a bonus! During a liveaboard trip in the Maldives he was carried pretty much everywhere. ‘It’s a means to an end. If you want to dive at a manta cleaning station, expect to be manhandled!’

Luke and I completed our Instructor Development Course (IDC) together in 2004. He has also experienced the Sardine Run in South Africa, with all the added hassle of a drysuit. On the practical side, he looks for a dive centre with a ‘can-do’ attitude to enable him to enjoy diving, just like everyone else. He recommends travelling with a shower curtain and a disposable portable urinal, especially when travelling on a boat which may not be set up for wheelchair access. Diving with a group of friends is also important, alleviating worries about asking for help.

‘Beyond all the practical stuff, when I go on a dive trip I want great diving and to make amazing memories – just like everyone else.’

Diving is a hobby that already removes many barriers and challenges for all of us. Divers are a friendly and open bunch. When we go abroad we are all out of our comfort zone to some extent. Here at Dive Worldwide – although we like to think our holidays are exclusive, we also want to make them inclusive to many types of diver.

We’ve done our research so you don’t have to. Contact Cath about our range of resorts where there is plenty of access for wheelchair users. Our expertise is in creating tailor-made diving holidays for all.

Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure10

Page 11: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

For further information about accessible dive holidays, contact Cath Bates or see our website.

Here at Dive Worldwide we believe that our clients should not have to make massive compromises in order to enjoy their holiday. We use a number of resorts and dive centres which are willing to adapt their own operations to meet the special needs of some divers.

Tasik Ria Resort & Spa Manado, Indonesia 5 wheelchair-friendly bedrooms available, all with roll-in shower The bar, restaurant & dive centre are accessible, as are the pool & jetty via ramps The dive team and boat crew are very experienced with disabled divers (some lifting is required to board boats)

True Blue Bay Boutique Resort, Grenada 6 bedrooms with wheelchair access with wider doorways & roll-in showers Aquanauts dive centre is happy to cater for divers with disabilities & has worked with disabled diver charities Dock accessibility is easy & staff are available to help board the boats. (Private guides are available)

Lions Dive Resort & Ocean Encounters Diving, Curaçao 2 wheelchair-accessible rooms with connecting rooms for travelling companion if needed Both rooms have wheel-in shower, shower seat & grab rails The dive team has had a lot of experience with disabled divers & groups. Dive shop is fully wheelchair accessible

Cayman Brac Beach Resort & Reef Divers, Cayman Islands 3 fully-equipped accessible rooms with roll-in showers, a low sink, raised toilet & hand rails The dive centre has facilities for adaptive divers & follows guidelines set by RAID, SSI & HSA The dive team has a lot of experience – Dive Pirates Foundation returns annually with new adaptive diver groups

Main image: Laura in the Red Sea

Cath & Alan Luke in the Red Sea

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 11

Page 12: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Remarkable Liveaboard JourneysSerious divers seek out the finest experiences, timing their adventures to maximise the chance to witness extraordinary events and magical marine life. Here we showcase an exclusive collection of remarkable liveaboard journeys designed to delight even the most discerning diver or snorkeller.

Prices are based on two persons sharing, liveaboard, meals and diving (flight prices available on request). Prices correct at time of print (October 2019). Dates specified are based on liveaboard departures.

Mantas, Sharks & More in the MaldivesIt is in the early months of each year that the southern region of the Maldives comes alive. This unique extended itinerary on the luxurious Emperor Explorer departs from Malé, heading south to take in the wonderful channels of Meemu and Thaa, before heading to south Ari for the possibility of manta ray and whale shark encounters. The itinerary will remain flexible to ensure the very finest marine life encounters.

15 Mar 2020 11 days from £2,575 (Emperor Explorer)

The Galápagos Islands – ExtendedAfter travelling so far, for a trip few are privileged to make more than once, why not make the best of it with an extended Galápagos adventure? While standard seven-night Galápagos itineraries take you to the heart of the action, our extended 10 and 11-night departures in 2020, scheduled to coincide with the best times for giant whale shark encounters, give you more time to take in everything that makes these islands a mecca for divers.

20 Aug 2020, 12 days from £8,465 (Galápagos Aggressor III) 31 Aug 2020, 12 days from £7,655 (Galápagos Aggressor III)

Spectacular Spawning Events in PalauFor many of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events, one element is key – timing. And Palau is no different. Around new moon, at certain times of year, divers have a chance to witness the aggregation of spawning sea bream and bumphead parrotfish, while at full moon it is the turn of the twin-spot snapper. Our Palau departures offer all the usual delights of Palau underwater, with the added chance to encounter these remarkable wildlife events.

15 Mar, 26 Apr & 8 Nov 2020, 8 days from £2,449 (Palau Aggressor III or Rock Island Aggressor) Yap extension possible on Nov departure

Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure12

Page 13: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

A South Pacific Escapade Like no OtherSteeped in culture and mystery, both the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea are at the top of many divers’ wish lists. On this extraordinary liveaboard journey, you can be one of the first divers to dive both on one epic adventure. Starting in either Papua New Guinea or the Solomon Islands, these departures take you to dive sites seldom (if ever) seen by divers, and include exploratory dives en route. Expect magical biodiversity, pristine reefs and, of course, the unexpected.

18 Apr 2021 11 days from £3,945 (Solomon PNG Master)

Humpback Whales in the Dominican RepublicSwim with humpback whales on the Silver Bank in the Dominican Republic’s Sanctuary for Marine Mammals. Each year between January and April, the largest gathering of North Atlantic humpback whales on the planet occurs at Silver Bank, in the Caribbean Sea. Up to 3,000 whales gather to court, mate and give birth. Accompanied by experienced personnel, you’ll see mothers and playful calves, swim amongst whale songs, and witness dramatic courtship ‘dances’.

13 Mar 2021 ‰8 days from £3,465 (Turks & Caicos Aggressor)

To view our extensive range of remarkable liveaboard journeys visit our website. In addition to the destinations featured here we offer liveaboard adventures in Socorro, Tahiti, Cocos, the Bahamas and Indonesia.

SNORKELLING

WITH W

HALES

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 13

Page 14: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

We offer an extensive range of dive holidays at the optimum time to visit some of the world’s most impressive destinations and enjoy the amazing marine life at its best. Here our expert Dive team selects some of their favourite dive escapes for each season.

Seasonal Underwater Escapes

To discover our full range of seasonal escapes visit our website or contact our expert team.

Winter December to February

Relax at a traditional beachfront lodge and enjoy some incredible diving both inside Chole Bay and at Kinasi Pass. Snorkelling trips to observe whale sharks during their annual aggregation are a seasonal highlight.

11 days from £2,075

Dive Mafia Island

Renowned for exceptional diving experiences, the southern atolls itineraries are best suited to experienced divers. Enjoy thrilling channel and exploratory dives plus some of the best pelagic encounters the Maldives has to offer.

10 days from £2,995

Southern Maldives LiveaboardAttracting divers from around the world, Cozumel lies along the Mesoamerican reef system, and is renowned for its walls, coral gardens and biodiversity of marine life. Enjoy drift dives, sunshine and a holiday pace of life.

9 days from £1,625

Dive Cozumel

Spend time exploring Khao Lak, Phuket and the Similan Islands on Thailand’s west coast. Expect a kaleidoscope of marine life, with opportunities to spot leopard sharks and mantas, as well as time to relax in paradise.

13 days from £1,595

Phuket & Khao Lak Diving

Offering a unique diving experience, Christmas Island is most famous for its red crab migration which, in turn, attracts the arrival of the whale sharks.

10 days from £2,145

Discover Christmas Island

TRY SOMETHING

DIFFERENT

One of the most exciting dive areas to open up in recent years, this remote Atlantic outcrop is now accessible to divers, promising shipwrecks and aggregations of whale sharks in season.

12 days from £3,095

Untouched St Helena

Renowned for some of the best big fish diving in the world, the Revillagigedo Islands offer regular giant Pacific manta ray and multiple shark species encounters as well as other sizeable seasonal visitors.

12 days from £3,795

Socorro Liveaboard

BEAT

THE CROWDS

TICK OFF

THE BUCKET-LIST

Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure14

Page 15: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

What an amazing trip. I loved it. Great boat, crew and guests. I would definitely go again. The food was every bit as good as you said it would be. As for the diving ...

oh my goodness. A life-long dream to dive with dolphins fulfilled, not once, but three times.

Tracey A, Socorro

Seasonal Escapes

All holiday prices are based on two persons sharing, including flights from the UK, accommodation, transfers and diving, except where specified. Prices correct at time of print (October 2019).

Choose from five diving locations in the Visayas region of the Philippines. Enjoy some of the best dive sites in the region as you hop between islands, discovering life on the reefs and enjoying encounters with sharks.

17 days from £2,345

Island Hopping Dive Safari

Explore the world’s finest wreck destination by luxury liveaboard. Nowhere else in the world are there so many shallow wrecks in close proximity, and this unique area is also home to sharks and eagle rays.

15 days from £4,895

Truk Wrecks Liveaboard

Visit Jordan’s cultural and historic sites including Petra, Jerash and Kerak, dive the uncrowded shores of Aqaba and explore the dramatic and beautiful desert landscapes of Wadi Rum on this varied itinerary.

10 days from £2,195

Jordanian Highlights

Southern Tobago is full of life and offers diving to suit all abilities, from shallow sloping reefs to thrilling drift dives and wrecks. The area is famous for its nesting leatherback, hawksbill and green turtles (seasonal).

9 days from £1,195

Visit Tobago

Spring March to May

The allure of the Indonesian island of Alor is its mix of marine life and diving experiences: see pelagics, explore reefs and discover critters.

15 days from £3,645

Diving Adventure in Alor

SOMETHING

DIFFERENT

The north-west Cape and world-famous Ningaloo Reef is diving adventure at its best, offering unforgettable experiences with large pelagic species (some seasonal).

16 days from £3,795

Western Australia Diving

PELAGIC

ACTION

Book this fabulous twin-centre itinerary to two of the Pacific’s most iconic and spectacular diving destinations. Experience manta rays in Yap, and dive the colourful reefs and wrecks of Palau.

19 days from £4,895

Palau & Yap

TIME TO SPARE

IN SPRING

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 15

Page 16: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

The care and organisation shown by the Dive Worldwide team was exemplary and the whole trip and experience

was faultless. While I hope that I acclimatised myself well and quickly, this would never have happened if I had not

had you to support, lead and advise me through all the diving. It was beyond what could be normally expected.

All this helped me to complete a dream I have held for 32 years – to dive TRUK LAGOON. I owe you one.

Martin M, Truk Lagoon

Seasonal Escapes

Summer June to August

Dive between two continents in Iceland’s crystal clear waters. Include this unique experience at Silfra as part of a long weekend break to the land of fire and ice, a nation with stunning natural marvels.

4 days from £995

This itinerary offers spectacular soft coral diving, dramatic drop-offs and manta ray encounters at the world’s fourth largest barrier reef – Great Astrolabe off Kadavu Island, Fiji – followed by some exhilarating shark dives.

15 days from £3,745

Silfra Diving Weekend

Great Astrolabe & Beqa Lagoon

Discover the best wrecks in the Mediterranean. Explore colourful reefs and magnificent underwater caves, as well as enjoying all that this captivating island has to offer on land.

8 days from £745

Visit Malta

The Galápagos Islands are a must for all experienced divers. Encounter silky, Galápagos, hammerhead and whale sharks from the comfort of a liveaboard, and come face to face with unique wildlife topside.

10 days from £5,495

Galápagos Liveaboard

Witness the ‘greatest shoal on Earth’ as millions of sardines migrate along South Africa’s eastern coastline. Get up close to a huge variety of marine life.

10 days from £2,545

Sardine Run Adventure

BAITBALL

ACTION

This dive adventure includes turtle encounters on the reef and a unique, experience as you discover the crystal clear water of the world-famous Cenotes in Mexico. Snorkellers welcome.

9 days from £1,575

Cenotes & Reefs

PERFECT

FOR FAMILIES

Exhilarating diving in Rangiroa’s two passes coupled with the Garuae pass in Fakarava makes this a thrilling adventure for shark lovers, and so much more besides!

18 days from £6,145

Rangiroa & Fakarava

ISLAND TIME

TAHITI STYLE

Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure16

Page 17: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Absolutely fantastic service by Dive Worldwide – all enquiries were answered in a timely manner and all

information was accurate and really helpful. Couldn’t recommend them enough! Easiest booking process I’ve

ever used, and you are always updated with what’s going on. Bali is an amazing place to dive – the waters are super

clear, and the marine life is fantastic.

Kayleigh B, Bali

Seasonal Escapes

Autumn September to November

Enjoy a short break to Bonaire, undeniably the shore diving capital of the world and a diver’s paradise. The majority of dive sites are easily accessed from the shore, and offer fantastic opportunities for underwater photography.

9 days from £1,565

Visit Bonaire

Uncover the magic of Papua New Guinea, one of the last unexplored areas of the world. This adventure includes two exceptional diving areas in Kimbe Bay and Kavieng – both renowned for macro and pelagic marine life.

17 days from £4,995

Dive & Discover PNG

Suitable for divers of all abilities, this itinerary travels to the mystical island of Nusa Lembongan for a unique diving experience. The mantas are mesmerising, the reefs are vibrant and mola mola might even appear.

11 days from £1,425

BIG in Bali

Northern Mozambique is home to some of the richest reefs in eastern Africa and a great choice for those seeking remote luxury – based for a week at the superb Nuarro Lodge. Suited to divers of all abilities.

10 days from £2,995

Northern Islands

All holiday prices are based on two persons sharing, including flights from the UK, accommodation, transfers and diving, except where specified. Prices correct at time of print (October 2019).

Discover the world’s most exciting great white shark dive site by liveaboard. Enjoy cage diving expeditions in the crystal clear waters of the Pacific.

9 days from £3,745

Isla Guadalupe Liveaboard

RELEASE

THAT ADRENALINE

Many experienced divers have Cocos Island firmly on their bucket-list, and this remote destination is a haven for shark encounters. Extend your adventure on mainland Costa Rica with its wild delights.

14 days from £5,095

Cocos Island Liveaboard

BEYOND THE

BUCKET-LIST

Follow in Darwin’s footsteps and discover the wealth of the Galápagos’ flora and fauna both underwater and topside on this adventure to Santa Cruz and Isabela Islands. Suitable for divers and snorkellers.

11 days from £4,275

Galápagos Islands Adventure

RESORT-BASED

DIVING

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 17

Page 18: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Dive into the richest reefs on the planet – choose from our selection of holidays to the Philippines, PNG, Indonesia and the Solomon Islands, all of which lie within the Coral Triangle.

The Coral TriangleDiscover the world’s richest reefs!

The Coral Triangle covers an imaginary area in the western Pacific Ocean

identified by scientists as having the highest diversity of corals (almost 800 species) in the world, 2,000 species of reef fish including numerous endemics, plus whales, dolphins, porpoises, dugongs and whale sharks … not to mention some of the most beautiful jungle-clad islands and clear turquoise seas the world has to offer.

Stretching from the Philippines, Borneo and Indonesia in the west to Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands in the east, the Coral Triangle is remote and still relatively untouched by tourism. We offer dive holidays to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines and Solomon Islands, all of which lie within the Coral Triangle.

Indonesia’s Raja Ampat Islands lie in West Papua, in the epicentre of the Coral Triangle, and this area is generally accepted by scientists as being the ‘bull’s eye’ of world coral diversity. Resorts are accessed by boat transfer and can be visited throughout the year. Alternatively, join a liveaboard for the ultimate Raja Ampat experience. Elsewhere in Indonesia, we offer trips to the lesser-known destinations of Alor, Kalimaya, Sali Bay and Ambon (which can be twinned with Raja Ampat). Expect vibrant and colourful reefs, plenty of macro life, schooling barracuda, countless schools of fish (over 1,200 known species are found here), manta ray encounters and plenty of drift diving in the fast currents which help feed the nutrient-rich waters.

We offer a range of holiday options in Papua New Guinea and its islands of New Britain and New Ireland. Best known are Kimbe Bay (Walindi Plantation Resort) and Tufi – with over 200 dive sites to explore (including WWII wrecks), divers will be amazed at the vivid colours, vibrant, healthy and beautiful reefs waiting to be discovered. Recommended for underwater photographers and divers who enjoy pristine reefs.

The Philippines can be dived at any time of the year and are very good value for money. The dry season offers the best all-round diving conditions and marine life encounters as well as ideal conditions on Apo reef. March to May offers the best chance of whale shark encounters at Donsol, while if you’re after mantas as well as thresher sharks in Malapascua, September’s your best bet. With fabulous resorts and a range of liveaboard options (such as to Tubbataha), the Philippines is excellent for marine diversity, critter action, thresher sharks and pelagics. It’s also a popular and relatively accessible destination within the Coral Triangle.

The exceptional dive sites around the Solomon Islands can be reached and enjoyed equally through resorts, or liveaboard, visiting renowned dive sites in the Florida and Russell Islands, as well as the world’s longest lagoon, Marovo. A combination of both resort-based diving and liveaboard will ensure you get the best out of this incredible Pacific outpost.

Contact our expert team for details about all of our resort-based and liveaboard dive holidays to the Coral Triangle.

Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure18

Page 19: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Discover the VisayasA popular Philippines itinerary in the Visayas region which offers the chance of thresher shark encounters in Malapascua, and a unique dive in Moalboal around Pescador Island with its resident sardine baitball.

13 days from £2,175 Jan-Dec

Dive Raja AmpatResort-based diving in Raja Ampat offers divers and snorkellers a world-class experience and plenty of reward both on the reefs and islands in this remote location at the heart of the renowned Coral Triangle.

14 days from £4,325 Jan-Dec

Solomon Islands LiveaboardFamed as much for their pristine reefs as well as their wrecks, the Solomon Islands are best dived by liveaboard. Discover the vast array of dive sites, an outstanding biodiversity of marine life and plenty of adventure.

12 days from £5,275 Apr-Dec

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 19

Page 20: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure20

Join a Group Diving AdventureGroup diving holidays are hugely rewarding, allowing you to dive with like-minded people, make friends and experience some superb diving. Below we feature six fantastic small group holidays focusing on photography, learning to dive, muck diving and exciting encounters with whale sharks. For further information please visit our website.

Dive into Lembeh Lembeh Strait is renowned worldwide for its exceptional biodiversity, attracting marine experts and budding photographers. Led by marine biologist and underwater photography expert Dr Richard Smith, this group trip combines muck diving and photographic opportunities. A must for divers with an interest in all things macro.

Departs 12 Apr 2020 Group size: 20 10 days from £2,345 (single supp. £375)

Holiday prices are based on two persons sharing, including flights from the UK (unless specified), accommodation, transfers, diving, and the services of an expert guide where applicable. Prices correct at time of print (October 2019).

Magic Photo Experience The aquarium-like reefs along the coastline of Anda on Bohol Island boast spectacular marine life, from tiny critters to larger pelagic species. Join experts Nick and Caroline Robertson-Brown in this region of the Philippines to discover and photograph the dazzling array of marine life from muck sites to colourful reefs.

Departs 19 May 2020 Group size: 16 13 days from £2,695 (single supp. £520)

Learn to Dive in Malta With year round sunshine, excellent visibility and calm waters, Malta is anaffordable place to learn to dive. Travel with like-minded people and work towards your PADI Open Water course. The course includes independent learning prior to arrival, plus tuition and diving skills in Malta. Once qualified, continue to dive with your new buddies.

Departs 14 Jun & 6 Sep 2020 Group size: 8 8 days from £975 (single supp. £200)

Muck & Magic Expert photographer Saeed Rashid will be in residence at Tasik Ria Resort, in Bunaken, followed by Dive into Lembeh Resort. Join him in Indonesia for some or all of this period, and benefit from talks on subject selection, lighting, composition and photographic techniques, daily critiques of photos, plus one to one advice.

Visit 10-24 Jul 2020 (land only) 11 days from £1,475 (single supp. £325) 15 days from £2,065 (single supp. £445)

Dive & Culture in Bali Based on Bali’s north coast at Pondok Sari, and north-east at Alam Anda, enjoy six dives from each resort including sites at Menjangan Island and the Liberty wreck. Expect colourful reefs, plenty of fish and numerous critters, plus topside, enjoy local hikes, cooking classes and cultural sightseeing plus a spa treatment at each resort.

Departs 3 Jun 2020 Group size: 10 16 days from £2,675 (single supp. £380)

Dive & Discover St Helena Travel to this remote island destination with Danny Copeland during peak whale shark season and discover plenty of South Atlantic marine life. The trip includes morning dives and at least two days’ snorkelling with whale sharks, a chance to explore the island, plus the opportunity to uncover the mysteries of this special island destination.

Departs 28 Jan 2021 Group size: 12 11 days from £3,995 (single supp. £350)

INDONESIA

ST HELENA

INDONESIA

MALTA

PHILIPPINES

INDONESIA

Page 21: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

The little-known, far-flung island of St Helena is fast gaining a reputation for extraordinary whale shark encounters, huge shoals of fish and endemics. Marine conservationist and multimedia expert Danny Copeland describes what to expect after leading our group trip to St Helena earlier this year.

Secrets of the South AtlanticWhale sharks, devil rays & endemic fish

Having spent over six weeks working with conservationists and scientists on the remote

island of St Helena, I can say wholeheartedly that this magical island is one of the most unique and breathtaking destinations on the planet. It boasts a remarkable population of adult whale sharks that is not only of growing conservation importance, but also consists of the largest and most inquisitive individual whale sharks I’ve ever encountered. Snorkelling with more than one shark, near-motionless in the water beside you, is the sort of encounter that marine life enthusiasts’ dreams are made of!

St Helena’s dive sites are varied and exciting in their own right, offering

far more than you might expect to see in a mid-Atlantic, tropical corner of the ocean. Visitors will be treated to wrecks, beautiful caverns, squadrons of devil rays, and schools of endemic butterfly fish – all within a 10-25-minute RIB journey out of Jamestown. Oh, and let’s not forget the ridiculously clear visibility that’s only possible in deep, mid-ocean waters such as the ones that wrap around the island. Back on land, St Helena has a unique history that is worth extended time topside. Sculpted by breathtaking volcanic mountains and cloud forest valleys, its vistas and varied habitats are looked after by a community of ‘Saints’, who are more endearing and welcoming than any group of people I’ve ever visited.

It may be a fantastically remote destination, but St Helena holds so many treasures for those willing to make the voyage. I hope many of you will join me on my next adventure to this secret of the South Atlantic.

Join Danny in St Helena in 2021 (see opposite). This new small group tour is timed to coincide with the annual aggregation of whale sharks.

© Danny Copeland

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 21

Page 22: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure22

We are excited to be expanding our charitable donations to marine conservation organisations and projects in 2020 with a pledge to help turtles in Papua New Guinea.

For the past few years we have been working to support some incredible marine charities.

Project AWARE Foundation does some amazing work on behalf of divers for marine conservation. Bite-Back Shark & Marine Conservation is an energetic, innovative and pioneering shark and marine conservation charity, which aims to protect and re-educate people about sharks as well as campaigning to end the sale of shark in Britain. We also recently supported Deptherapy, a rehabilitation charity which runs specially tailored scuba diving programmes for seriously injured members of the UK armed forces and others, in organising a trip to Truk Lagoon.

In 2020 we are pledging to increase our conservation efforts. We are pleased to offer continued support to the above charities, as well as supporting more grass roots organisations such as the fantastic Turtle Conservation Project that was set up by Lissenung Island Resort in Papua New Guinea.

Turtle numbers are in decline in Papua New Guinea. New Ireland has been populated by humans for almost 40,000 years, and turtles and their eggs have always been a traditional food source. Due to population growth, as well as the well-known threats of fishing nets and plastic pollution, the local turtle population is now under serious threat and declining rapidly.

The project’s director, Angelique Amon, describes the initiative:

‘We started our Turtle Conservation Programme in 2013 in order to protect the remaining turtles as well as to educate the local population about turtle and environmental protection.

We have identified two nearby, uninhabited islands as common turtle nesting grounds: Edmago Island and Ral Island.

‘Over 90% of our nests are from hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata), while the remaining nests are from green turtles (Chelonia mydas). Hawksbill turtles are classified as ‘Critically Endangered’, and Green Turtles are listed as ‘Endangered’, by IUCN as well as CITES.

‘During the nesting season, from early September through to mid-February, we travel to those two islands early every morning. Once there, we follow any new turtle tracks, find the nest and carefully relocate the eggs to nesting boxes back on Lissenung Island. The hatchlings emerge from the nest approximately 60 days later, and we collect important data and measurements before releasing them. So far, we have released 14,660 live hatchlings, and we already have eight nests in this year’s season.’

It is estimated that only about one in 1,000 turtles will survive until adulthood, so the efforts made and data collected at Lissenung are vital in helping the survival of the species. They also educate the local people about the importance of turtle conservation, in the hope of creating a more sustainable future for the turtles in Papua New Guinea.

To help support Lissenung Island Resort and the brilliant work they are doing, we are pleased to pledge an initial donation of £2,000. This will help towards a project to build community education on turtles – to find out more follow us on social media.

Helping Turtles in PNGSupport for marine charities

Page 23: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 23

Help Make a Difference For each trip booked through us, a small donation will go directly to one of the fantastic marine conservation charities mentioned opposite. Please let us know if you would like to increase your donation amount and we will ensure the money goes directly to one of these wonderful charities.

You can help collect vital data by sending your photos of marine life to organisations that collect data about species and identify individuals. Please visit our website for a list of charities that would like to receive your images.

You can lend a helping hand whilst on holiday. A few of the resorts we work with have in-house conservation projects or work closely with local ventures. Speak to a member of our team about actively helping out one of these projects.

Page 24: Winter/Spring 2019/2020€¦ · The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo 6-7 Grenada & Carriacou 8 Papua New Guinea 9 Accessible Holidays & Resorts 10-11 Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys 12-13

01962 [email protected]

www.diveworldwide.com

Long Barn South, Sutton Manor Farm, Bishop’s Sutton, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0AA, United KingdomOver 190 locations worldwide, hand-picked for the

best diving and snorkelling experiences.

Finest dive locations Superb selection of resorts & liveaboards Tailor-made specialists Highly experienced & knowledgeable team Personalised service 100% independent 100% financial protection

We create outstanding

Diving Holidays

©Dive Worldwide 2019 No portion of this brochure may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Dive Worldwide.

Photographs courtesy of: Simon Rogerson, Cinzia Bismark, Danny Copeland, Lewis Copper, Cath Bates, Frogfish

Photography, Richard Smith & Saeed Rashid. Apologies for any omissions.

Dive Worldwide is part of The Natural Travel Collection Ltd, an independent and privately owned travel company that places a special

emphasis on sustainable holidays.

St Helena

Accompanied by conservationist Danny Copeland

Snorkel with whale sharks in prime season

Discover this remote island

12 days from £3,995 Group Tour

Dive & Discover St Helena

Considered by many to be the ‘Galápagos of the Atlantic Ocean’, the remote island of St Helena can now be explored by those with an adventurous spirit and a love of nature.

To find out more or book a holiday in St Helena visit our website or contact our expert team.

Dive sites include wrecks, caverns & seamounts

Snorkel with inquisitive whale sharks (Dec-Mar)

Explore topside & meet welcoming locals

12 days from £3,095 Tailor-made Adventure

Untouched St Helena

© Danny Copeland