SPORTS

Underwater adventures

A beginners’ guide to scuba diving in Hong Kong. By Nicole Slater

With many of us missing our topical destinations this summer, you will be thrilled to know that you can still get your underwater fix in Hong Kong. While it’s not one of the world’s top scuba diving destinations, there is still plenty of marine life and seabeds to explore. Here is your guide to diving in Hong Kong.

When to dive

Although you can drive all year round, the best times are from late March to early June and then again from September to early November. The warmer months can be affected by typhoons and prevailing southwest monsoons can bring in murk from the Pearl River to the west, which can dull the visibility. But on the up side the water temperature is mostly warm, making for an overall comfortable dive on a calm day. Be 24 | SAI KUNG

sure to plan ahead as good weather and a little luck are the main factors when it comes to scuba diving in Hong Kong.

Where to dive

Po Toi Islands

Just off of Stanley, Po Toi Island is a popular diving spot from March to May, as the surroundings are relatively untouched, making it a great spot for marine life. The islands also feature interesting rock formations.

Bluff Island

Perfect for beginners, Bluff Island offers plenty of marine life and even has a submerged car wreck which, according to local legend, was once used by smugglers. The island makes for a great day trip location, with plenty to see in and out of the water.

Ninepin Islands

A string of jewels in the crown of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, make up

Who to dive with

Splash Hong Kong

Located in Sai Kung, Splash Hong Kong offers a range of diving lessons and days out for beginners and professionals. The Splash Days out will take you to crystal clear waters around Sai Kung and includes lunch onboard and two dives throughout the day. splashhk.com

the Ninepin Islands. Divers can explore hexagonal columns of rock with underwater visibility stretching up to 17 metres. Octopus, eels and even scorpionfish are often spotted here. Being an isolated sea mount, the currents can be quite a challenge, so this is best for divers with some experience.

Sharp Island

Another spot that’s ideal for beginners is Sharp Island. Don’t let the name put you off: Sharp is a gently undulating tropical islet that’s home to warm, shallow waters and sheltered bays, protecting divers from open water currents. Offering a range of programmes covering everything from knots and navigation to first aid and rescue techniques, South China Diving Club has something for all levels of divers. Founded by a group of avid divers in 1979, the club hopes to help their members become better divers. scdc.org.hk

Diving Adventure

On a mission to promote sustainable, safe and environmentally friendly scuba diving, Diving Adventure started out as a dive shop in 1988 but quickly expanded to an educational centre. The company offers diving training and dive tours across Hong Kong. divinghk.com

What to spot:

Chaetodon plebeius

Photo: Andy A. Lewis

Photo: Daiju Asuma

Hong Kong grouper

Photo: Izuzuki