Dive Worldwide Newsletter issue 2 2013 by The Natural Travel Collection Ltd

What’s Bubbling

Thrilling news! We are so excited by the recent launch of our all-singing, all-dancing website. Just as exciting is the launch of our new hands-on conservation trips.

In this Issue NEW! Website ......................... 2

With a recent move to a new oﬃce it seemed only right that it was time for a brand new website to bring us well and truly into the Digital Age. It had been on the shopping list for quite a while and now we had the opportunity for a totally new look, with all the bells and whistles and interactivity that we now need. So with a lot of hard work and inspiration from the whole team, our new baby is there to be seen by all.

The Dream Team ...................... 2

We hope you love the images and new design, links to feedback and our new Dive Log area with its articles from journalist and staff trip reports. My hope is that the Dive Log will develop into a substantial body of knowledge that you will return to again and again to learn about new ideas and developments.

Malta ....................................... 6

When compared to an old-fashioned brochure, it is such an incredibly flexible tool with lots more information that can be quickly kept up to date. As you know we tailor-make every holiday, and we hope the website will give you lots of ideas with new boats, resorts and destinations being added all the time. There is more to come, so please do take a look, but remember to come back and see how we are progressing.

Bite-Back ................................ 10

As firm believers in taking proactive steps to protect our marine wildlife and environment, we have strengthened our partnership with Bite-Back Shark and Marine Conservation. Thank you to everyone who booked in 2013 and helped us raise an amazing amount of money, and thank you to those who sponsored the Dream Team as they took the challenge of walking the inaugural F’in Mile.

Holiday Planner ..................... 15

Tobago ..................................... 3 Bahamas .................................. 3 NEW! Just Conservation ......... 4 The Azores .............................. 7 Papua New Guinea .................. 8 Manta Trust ........................... 10 NEW! Trips for 2014 ............. 11 Liveaboards ............................ 12 Wildlife Worldwide ................ 16 Stop Press .............................. 16

We still want to do more and this newsletter sees another exciting project being fulfilled, the launch of our new hands-on conservation experiences. Just Conservation is our new way of delivering hands-on experiences for those of you who are looking for unique holiday opportunities to help make a difference. We can now offer you a trip of a lifetime so you can make a real contribution to marine conservation. We are passionate about the protection of our marine life and we are delighted to introduce our new partner, the Manta Trust a non-profit organisation dedicated to the conservation of manta rays through research, education and raising awareness. Join us on our dedicated trips throughout the world – enjoying spectacular diving whilst making a difference. Please do take a look at the new website and conservation trips and see what you think we’d love to hear your feedback.

Teresa Bennett © Phil North

visit us on the web at www.diveworldwide.com

Exciting New and Improved Website

We are proud to unveil our stunning new website, full of features and providing even more inspiration for your next diving holiday. ü Discover holidays based on your preferred style or interests ü Browse trip ideas for inspiration ü Delve into our dive log for special oﬀers & trip reports ü Stunning imagery ü Detailed ‘when to go’ information ü Cutting edge design to include tablets and mobiles

Go to www.diveworldwide.com or scan the QR code below to load it onto your phone to see it for yourself! And remember there is more to come - so make sure you come back to see how we are progressing! We welcome any feedback, so let us know what you think.

Dream Team - Where we’ve ben......

During the past year our experienced team have been adding to their log book, revisiting some old favourites as well as exploring some lesser known ones.....  Phil North - Central America In April, I enjoyed a fabulous three week trip to Belize, Guatemala and Costa Rica. Belize is a wonderful country brimming with natural wonders and oozing adventure – from the whale sharks of Gladden Spit to ancient Mayan ceremonial caves, the beautiful barrier © Sarah Wight reef to pristine rainforest lodges. In Guatemala, the vast Mayan site of Tikal and colonial capital of Antigua Guatemala, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, provide a window to this region’s dramatic history and make for an excellent extension. Last up was the remote Osa Peninsula in south-west Costa Rica, home to the country’s finest national park in Corcovado and a little known dive spot called Caño Island. A close encounter with manta rays at Caño Island made for a fitting finale to a truly memorable trip. Contact me direct for help in creating your dream itinerary.

 Charlie Munns - Bahamas and Turks & Caicos Worried that the islands are full of dead reefs, lionfish and fat tourists? Prepare to change your mind… I recently visited the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands and was pleasantly surprised. The two fit well together as a twin-centre holiday. Dive Provo operate daily boat diving to some great local sites. Deep drop-offs, large and healthy reefs, clear warm waters and a surprising variety and abundance of fish. Lobsters, rays, morays, sharks and large grouper fuelled my dives. Did you know sharks eat lionfish? Well you do now. Flying within the Bahamas is epic. Staying on Harbour Island adds to the sense of being lost in paradise. I made a series of adrenaline fuelled drift dives at eight knots and loved it! The greatest surprise was Nassau. Stuart Cove’s is synonymous with shark feeding, large numbers and brash marketing, which is all true, but the result is a slick operation and a great experience and I can safely say, I am a convert.

Talk to an expert on 0845 130 6980 to plan your perfect trip

What’s Bubbling

Staf Trip Report

by Michele Coral

Tobago

“I love Tobago because it’s how the rest of the Caribbean used to be.” A quote from a Trinidadian living in Tobago and I totally agree with him, it’s a very beautiful place. The Caribbean either conjures up a picture of large 5* resorts and luxurious sailing yachts or a deserted beach and a rum punch! Tobago will surprise you, it has a little of everything. I was based in the more developed south for a week. I highly recommend a trip to the Fish Pot, a small charming restaurant in Black Rock, serving fresh fish and shrimp - delicious. The north is still untouched, with stunning bays where the dense rainforest goes all the way to the sea. Tobago has two contrasting coastlines – the Atlantic side with dramatic rocky shores, alive with fish and diving sea birds, and the Caribbean side with its white sandy beaches, clear sea and tropical birds. We dived all week on both coasts, ensuring the best overall experience. There’s plenty of marine life and magnificent sea sponges - keep an eye out for their resident banded boxer shrimp, great for photographers! There are currents on most dive sites, so drifting over the reef is effortless. The highlight of the entire trip, for me, was having the honour of helping the team from Save Our Sea Turtles liberate some tiny hatchlings into the sea under the cover of darkness - quite incredible.

Competition Winer Angelika Zang - Carib Dancer Our ten hour flight took us from a chilly UK to the warmth of the Bahamas. We were pleased to be greeted by Captain Dennis and his crew for a week on the Carib Dancer exploring the islands of the Exumas. On board was an eclectic mix of guests, all experienced divers – including the charming Wayne Brown, the owner and CEO. This guaranteed a week of relaxing and enjoyable diving with many interesting conversations and very little need to use the huge plasma screens on board. The boat is a no nonsense boat, fully equipped for its purpose with space for 14 divers only. This suits those who appreciate small groups and personalised service. There is ample space for photography equipment and Nitrox is available. The hot showers and warm towels after each dive was something we appreciated after discovering the water was considerably chillier than expected, at around 20°C. A decent wetsuit is a must, with some divers bringing dry suits, although March is still early in the season.

Or visit us on the web at www.diveworldwide.com

The diving was varied, with great underwater landscapes, canyons and swim-throughs. One of the great attractions of the Bahamas is diving with sharks and we were certainly not disappointed, especially on the wreck of the Austin Smith. For us the highlight of the week was a shallow night dive spent watching massive Caribbean channel crabs, hunting tritons, a rare Caribbean spanish dancer and much more besides. The dive was rounded off by huge amberjacks hunting in the eerie light under the dive platform. All in all we had a very enjoyable week. The crew were courteous and very professional. The food prepared by chef Shea was varied, delicious, plentiful and very bad for our waistlines! We extended our holiday to go island hopping. On Long Island we enjoyed endless empty white sandy beaches, friendly hospitable locals and wonderful views – we would highly recommend a twin centre stay in the Bahamas.

Just Conservation

by Charlie Munns

The natural choice for a rewarding get-away! Have you ever thought about travelling in a unique and diﬀerent way, and making a real contribution to marine conservation? Our aim is to create an opportunity to participate in sustainable conservation projects as part of a meaningful holiday.

Canada blue whale research in Mingan Islands Join the team of scientists to study the whales with a special focus on the elusive blue whale. Help collect critical information while experiencing the authentic life of scientists in the ﬁeld. A great educational and adventurous experience for marine life enthusiasts!

Great white shark biological course Uncover the mysteries of the fascinating and controversial great white shark in South Africa’s False Bay, renowned for spectacular breaching behavour. Study this magniﬁcent creature with world expert Dr Alessandro De Maddalen and an exclusive group of enthusiasts.

We are particularly proud to announce the launch of our ‘Just Conservation’ programme, which offers a unique opportunity to dive with a difference, or help with marine mammal research. By taking the plunge, you will gain privileged access, and enjoy close behind-the-scenes encounters with some of the most charismatic sea creatures. You don’t have to be an advanced diver to take part in some of these projects - all you need is genuine enthusiasm, curiosity about marine life, and the desire to get involved, learn and travel in a different style. HOW LONG? Trips are designed to fit a one to two week holiday period, and can be adjusted to meet your personal needs. WHERE? Projects include both short and long haul destinations, and are carefully selected according to their level of interest and sustainability to ensure a spread of attractive locations. TAILOR-MADE OR GROUP? If you want a tailor-made experience, you can join a project at any time during its season. If you would prefer a group trip, we offer a selection led by experts that give a real insight into conservation. BUDGET Everything from exclusive high-end experiences to more economical holidays. This range ensures that anyone who is keen to get involved can give nature a hand. The price always includes a contribution towards funding the project.

Conservation experiences around the world... Blue Whales - Canada, Mingan Island

Study the sperm whales and dolphins in the Azores Become an expert in whales and dolphins as you learn about their ecology, population, habitat and behaviour, following in the steps of Dr Lisa Steiner. Enjoy free time at your resort, or dive with the blue sharks and explore the treasures of the Azores.

Reef Mantas Yap, Micronesia Reef and Oceanic Mantas - Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Oceanic Mantas - Peru, Mancora

Sperm Whales, Bottlenose Dolphins and Blue Shark Azores

Great White Shark - South Africa, False Bay

Talk to an expert on 0845 130 6980 to plan your perfect trip

What’s Bubbling

Caling Al Manta Lovers… We are delighted to introduce our new partner in marine conservation: The Manta Trust. The Manta Trust is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the conservation of manta rays through research, education and raising awareness.

Manta monitoring in Raja Ampat Explore the underwater paradise of Raja Ampat from the luxury of your liveaboard vessel whilst monitoring the manta rays and helping support conservation of these endangered species.

Its goal is to encourage the worldwide conservation of manta rays and their natural habitat through focused science and meaningful research, while creating awareness and providing education to the general public and community stakeholders alike. One of the main challenges faced by manta rays is the increase in demand for their gill plates, which are highly prized in Chinese traditional medicine. One good way to address this is by getting enthusiastic divers involved in research to monitor mantas and collect critical information that can support educated decisions at governmental level to create protected marine areas. We offer an unmissable opportunity to join dedicated diving expeditions in some of the world’s most outstanding dive sites, such as Raja Ampat in the Coral Triangle or Yap in Micronesia (both liveaboard trips), or at Mancora in Peru (land-based). Explore these outstanding destinations and enjoy spectacular diving whilst helping with manta conservation: a holiday that makes a difference!

“

Manta rays are beautiful creatures, their grace and inquisitive nature is captivating; they engage and stir my natural curiosity like no other marine creature, driving my desire to protect and learn as much about these porly studied animals as posible. Yet these words never sem to fuly expres my pasion, or project the empathy and conection which I fel towards manta rays. This is why the best answer to the question I often get asked; “Why study manta rays?” dœs not require words, but simply an introduction betwen those who wonder why, and the manta rays themselves. Guy Stevens - Founder & CEO -The Manta Trust

”

Mental about mantas from Mancora Join this exciting manta expedition in Peru. Help find out if the area could be a significant reproduction zone for mantas. Take the opportunity to relax in the charming Mancora surfing resort.

Exclusive manta study in Yap Combine an exclusive liveaboard expedition with shore based diving while studying mantas. You will get a ﬂavour of the authentic Yapese culture and explore the deepest world of mantas where few other divers venture.

Images in this section are copyright of Guy Stevens, Manta Trust

Or visit us on the web at www.diveworldwide.com

Malta A popular destination for divers, Malta is only a few hours flight from the UK and caters for all. This archipelago of three islands offers year round sunshine. Although peak season is during the summer months it’s a great destination in winter, especially for those who are looking to further their diving education. Each island has its own characteristics and a spectacular variety of dive sites. Malta is home to the capital and as famous for its nightlife as well as its history, culture and wreck diving. The pace of life is slower on Gozo, the eco-island, renowned for its caves and caverns. Comino, the smallest island, is car-free and only open during the summer months - a great place to learn to dive. What’s so great about these islands is there’s a diving choice for everyone. Whether you’re looking to learn, discover the deepest wrecks, travel with a group of friends (or your club) you’ll all have a memorable experience, suited to your individual diving ability.

Wrecks and Caves Lying in the heart of the Mediterranean, the islands of Malta are renowned for their snorkelling and diving opportunities. The clear warm waters are ideal for wreck and cave enthusiasts throughout the year. It’s here where an amazing underwater world of discovery awaits. Day 1

Depart UK for Malta. Transfer to hotel (7 nights, BB) Days 2-6 Explore local wrecks (5 days/10 dives) Day 7 Day at leisure to discover Malta Day 8 Transfer to Gozo. Transfer to hotel (3 nights, BB) Days 9-10 Explore local caves (2 days/4 dives) Day 11 Transfer to airport. Depart for UK, arrive same day Departs:

The destination is affordable and offers great value for money. Together with our experts, create your own itinerary visiting any number of islands - depending on what you are looking for and who you are travelling with.

Duration: Prices from:

Daily, throughout the year (recommended April to October) 11 days From £1,195 per person (inc. flights) (based on two people travelling together)

G�� C��

A memorable and picturesque dive, the Blue Hole is Gozo’s signature dive.

The crystal clear ‘Blue Lagon’ a perfect place to learn to dive.

Valletta M��

Enjoy the unique mix of history, culture and modern life at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Land temp: Visibility: Season: Marine life:

15OC (Jan) - 30OC (Aug) Water temp: 12OC (Feb) - 26OC (Aug) 5 - 40 metres Current: Some current Year round (recommended April to October) Accommodation: Resort Tuna, barracuda, jacks, anthias, octopus, fire worms

Fact File

Explore rocky refs and discover signiﬁcant World War l wrecks.

Talk to an expert on 0845 130 6980 to plan your perfect trip

What’s Bubbling

Azores An archipelago of nine huge volcanic peaks breaking the surface in the mid-Atlantic, the Azores is a spectacular region to visit whether it’s for diving, hiking or whale watching. The islands are easy to get to - ﬂy there in under four hours! The Gulf Stream ensures a mild and humid climate year-round. Untouched by mass tourism, the surrounding waters hold a rich marine biodiversity, most notably a wide variety of whales and dolphins.

Visit the Azores

Although they share an extraordinary natural legacy, each island has a unique character, shaped by the people who have settled there over the centuries. An island hopping itinerary is highly recommended for the best way to experience the best of what each island has to offer – the chance to go mountain biking, kayaking or hiking along the panoramic volcanic topography, visit a vineyard, laze on a beach or go whale watching.

Day 1

Diving is available from São Miguel, Faial, Pico and Santa Maria. Underwater highlights include exploring the lava formed topography, manta and mobula ray encounters and if you’re lucky, blue shark sightings. The variety of shallow rocky reefs, arches, underwater caves, wrecks and deeper oceanic dives offer an abundance of marine life from critters to whales plenty of unique photo opportunities.

The ‘Green Island’ of São Miguel makes a great short break from the UK, with the island’s beautiful scenery complimenting the intriguing underwater world. Enjoy a mix of panoramic views, topside adventure and marine encounters. Depart UK for Azores. Transfer to hotel (7 nights, BB) Days 2-6 Explore local dive sites (5 days/10 dives) Day 7 Transfer to airport. Depart for UK, arrive same day It is also possible to fly via mainland Portugal several times a week - recommended for twin centre and island hopping holiday options. Departs: Duration: Prices from:

Saturday (May to September) 7 days From £1,150 per person (inc. flights) (based on two people travelling together)

Head out to the west of Faial for your best chance of a blue shark encounter.

Princes Alice Bank is a submerged seamount, home to amazing marine life including mobula rays.

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Amazing scenery on land and a stuning underwater topography, make Pico shore dives a must se.

Enjoy panoramic views, volcanœs and outdor adventure topside. Underwater, a labyrinth of arches and guleys, formed by lava, awaits.

Ponta Delgada

S�� M��

The ‘Sun Island’ is your gateway to Formigas and Dolabarat, considered some of the best diving in Europe and famed for schols of mobula rays and diversity of pelagic species.

Fact File

S�� M�� Land temp: Visibility: Season: Marine life:

11OC - 26 OC Water temp: 17OC - 24OC 10 - 30+ metres Current: Variable currents May to September Accommodation: Resort Mobula rays, blue sharks, mako sharks, stingrays, dolphin, humpback whales, turtles

Or visit us on the web at www.diveworldwide.com

www.visitazores.com

Papua New Guinea Papua New Guinea, also known as the ‘land of the unexpected’, is one of the most exciting, remote and adventurous places on the planet. As well as many geographical attractions - tropical islands, towering mountain ranges covered with rainforest, and spectacular active volcanoes - Papua New Guinea possesses some of the best dive spots in the world, making it a diver’s dream destination. Here you will find deep and shallow reefs, coral walls, deep drop offs, atolls, passages, lagoons and an incredible number of wrecks. Boats, planes and submarines, many from World War II, have been transformed into living coral reefs, home to a unique diversity of marine species. We recommend as much time as possible to explore this adventurous destination. Combine a liveaboard and land-based option to ensure a memorable and varied journey to one of the last frontiers in the diving world. Featured here are the most popular areas to visit and dive. It’s possible to dive throughout the year. With an average water temperature of 260C and visibility of 30+ metres, it’s time to talk to our experts to arrange your trip of a lifetime.

Madang

One of the most ecologically diverse reef systems in the world, Madang lagoon is full of marine life and outstanding dive sites. The barrier reef consists of steep walls covered in pristine colourful corals. The passage dives are renowned for their sheer volume of schooling fish during tidal changes. The most famous wreck to explore here is the B25 Mitchell Bomber, lying at a depth of 20 metres.

Highlands

Madang

May - Oct

Exotic animals, extraordinary art and flamboyant warriors await the curious traveller. The Highlands region offers a spectacle of bird life, panoramic views and unique culture. Stay in remote lodges, journey along the Sepik River, visit the Huli people or Goroka Festival – you’ll be amazed!

Mt Hagen

Milne Bay

Sep-May

Situated between the Solomon and Coral Seas, the area is famous for muck diving, colourful reefs and prolific blue-water diving. Expect to see plenty of critters, massive elephant sponges and gorgonians, manta rays, hammerhead sharks and plenty of WWll wrecks underwater and on land. Due to the prevailing currents, the best visibility in this area is during the wet season (Jun-Oct). © PNG Tourist Board

©Simon Rogerson

Key

Liveaboard Resort

Talk to an expert on 0845 130 6980 to plan your perfect trip

What’s Bubbling

Lissenung

Apr – Dec

New Ireland was occupied by the Japanese in WWll, evidence of which is present on land and underwater. The waters around Kavieng are littered with wrecks. The straits and channels between the islands, with their huge movements of water, create some exhilarating dives. The area is notorious for pelagic action, but just as impressive is the young marine life in the lagoons and mangroves. Water sports enthusiasts may also enjoy kite-surfing and surfing in this area.

Kimbe Bay

May-Nov

A chain of dormant volcanoes form the scenic boundaries of Kimbe Bay, encompassing hundreds of submerged reefs and more than a dozen islands. Boasting an incredible biodiversity, the nutrient rich waters offer stunning coral gardens, seamounts and plenty of encounters with whales, dolphins and orcas. The FeBrina liveaboard visits Witu and Fathers Reefs, Kimbe Bay and the south coast of New Britain throughout the year.

Kavieng Lissenung

Rabaul

Kimbe Bay

Hoskins

Tuﬁ

Year Round

Dive two distinct areas – the outer reefs with schools of pelagic species and untouched WWll wrecks and the sheltered fjords where wonderful arrays of sponge and shelf corals line the walls. The marine biodiversity and abundance of fish on these unique reef systems is spectacular. Local adventures include the hiking, cultural interaction and bird watching.

Tuﬁ

Port Moresby Loloata Alotau

Milne Bay

Or visit us on the web at www.diveworldwide.com

Bite-Back - One F’in Mile Report This year we have been helping raise vital funds to support Bite-Back and their campaigns such as “Hacked Off ”, developed in response to estimates that 36 million sharks are slaughtered every year, many simply for their fins, a title ingredient in shark fin soup. The charity’s campaign has targeted over 65 identified UK restaurants and works together to educate and inspire them to stop selling the dish. Together we can help make Britain the first country in the world to ban shark fin soup. The Dream Team recently participated in the inaugural F’in Mile, a walk with a difference to help raise awareness and funds for the “Hacked Off ” campaign. Back in August, Kempton Park Racecourse played host to a rather unusual breed of thoroughbreds, all wearing fins, most in fancy dress. Within

minutes it was evident how uncoordinated we all were! The mile long course was a struggle but, cheered on by our supporters we stuck together and sprinted over the finish line 40 minutes later.

“

Being able to count on the suport of the team at Dive Worldwide along with its clients has ben an enormous bost for the charity and its goals Graham Buckingham - Director

”

Thank you to our supporters on the day and all those who kindly donated towards this worthy cause – helping raise over £944. We all agreed it was a great event and look forward to the next!

Manta Trust Manta rays are one of our oceans most majestic creatures, once seen never forgotten. Yet they are threatened globally, as many marine species are, by a multitude of anthropogenic pressures. Adapting to climate change, habitat destruction and direct ﬁshing for their gills are some of the most signiﬁcant challenges facing manta rays today. The Manta Trust works in partnership with a number of regional manta ray focused projects worldwide; conducting research, raising awareness and providing education for all in an effort to protect this precious species. A major part of the research revolves around learning more about the life history and behaviour, and this is achieved in part by taking photos of individual manta rays whenever possible. Each manta ray has a unique pattern of spots and splodges on its belly which once entered into the database can help expand the information about their migration patterns, reproductive success and much more.

to snap as many manta bellies as possible. Join Dive Worldwide with the Manta Trust on manta expeditions where divers and snorkellers are introduced to the best sites in each location to encounter manta rays and, having conducted a manta ID workshop, they help to collect ID shots to add to the database. This is a unique opportunity to learn more about manta rays and their mysterious lives while making a key contribution to their protection by helping with data collection. The trips leave guests with an unforgettable memory of a very special encounter alongside the skills and knowledge to help conserve this species for generations to come.

This research technique, while extremely useful, requires many hours spent in water in an attempt © Steve Pollett

Talk to an expert on 0845 130 6980 to plan your perfect trip

What’s Bubbling

New for 2014 Evolution Resort - Philippines

Ocean Divine - Maldives Liveaboard

This small resort is diver owned and operated ensuring a personal touch and an understanding of diver’s needs. Offering five star service and plenty of fun at the Craic House, the emphasis is on enjoying and evolving as divers. Underwater, Malapascua is one of the best all round diving locations in the Philippines offering thresher sharks, wrecks and macro life on the reefs. Learn to dive or go technical, it’s all available here.

Cruising the central and southern atolls, this luxurious vessel offers dive and surf trips throughout the year. Spend your week with the inspirational owners who live on board and have an amazing local knowledge of the atolls. © Tara North The itineraries vary depending on local conditions bringing you the best possible diving experience. Expect unspoilt dive sites, mantas, turtles, whale sharks, and with 14 passengers, plenty of space.

When to visit: Prices from:

Year Round £1,565 per person (inc. flights)

Dive Damai - Indonesia

November to April (Dive Trips) £2,895 per person (inc. flights)

Zeavola Resort - Thailand

The crew of the Damai liveaboards have been exploring the waters of Indonesia for over 25 years, offering intrepid discerning divers a product second to none. The purpose built traditional schooners accommodate ten passengers in total luxury including two single cabins with no supplement. The vessels visit popular and lesser known areas throughout the archipelago, where world-class diving is a given.

Step away from the crowds and into the serenity of this boutique resort located on Phi Phi Don. This luxurious resort sits on a white sandy beach surrounded by scenic mountains and an emerald sea. Relax in the spa, try Thai cooking or get © Tara North involved with a local community or wildlife project during your stay. Dive or snorkel in the local Marine Park where enormous gorgonians, colourful reefs, turtles, sharks and critters await.

When to visit: Prices from:

Year Round £4,350 per person (inc. flights)

Mobula Magic – Azores

November to April £2,395 per person (inc. flights)

Hammerheads in the Bahamas

Santa Maria island is warmer, flatter and drier than the others. Underwater highlights include caves, tunnels and sea mounts, however it’s the nature reserve Formigas and the Dollabarat Bank that divers hope to experience. Here, the abundant marine life © Pedro de Carvalho includes several species of shark, barracuda, tuna and manta rays. Dive or snorkel Baixa do Ambrósio, famous for its mobula ray aggregations during the summer months, a magical experience!

The Bahamas is synonymous with shark diving and Bimini is no exception. Renowned for its crystal clear waters and wild dolphin encounters, now it is also the place for thrilling dives with great hammerhead sharks, in the shallows. Spend a week at Bimini Sands and dive with Neal Watson, a pioneer in diving Bahamian waters. Daily boat dives are offered, with an additional option for cage-free shark diving encounters at Hammer Headquarters.

When to visit: Prices from:

May to October £1,225 per person (inc. flights)

Or visit us on the web at www.diveworldwide.com

January to March £2,995 per person (inc. flights)

Liveaboards...... Whales.....

Liveaboards are a great way to see some of the best dive sites, especially those that aren’t easily accessible from resorts in the same area. Travelling with like-minded people, your time on board is spent maximising your dives throughout your journey. Dive

Tambora - Indonesia Cruising year round throughout the Indonesian archipelago, this custom built traditional phinisi is the most adventurous in the coral triangle, offering unforgettable experiences and plenty of crowd free world-class diving. The unique itineraries include Big Fish Country (Sangalaki), critter hunting (Ambon) and an amazing underwater biodiversity. The below itinerary is Four Kingdoms of the East, in West Papua. Day 1 Depart UK Day 2 Overnight in Jakarta (BB) Day 3 Fly to Sorong. Arrive, transfer to boat (11 nights, FB) Days 4-13 Dive Raja Ampat (4 dives/day) Day 14 Transfer to airport. Fly to Jakarta Day 15 Depart for UK, arrive same day Contact us to learn more about the most suitable itinerary for the time of year you want to travel. Departs: Duration: Prices from:

Various, throughout the year 15 days (on average) From £3,935 per person (inc. flights) (based on two people travelling together)

Odyssey – Truk Lagoon Dive Chuuk (Truk) Lagoon on board one of our most popular vessels. Charlie has worked on board. Explore and discover the mysteries of the Japanese WW ll fleet, attacked with enormous ferocity in February 1944 - an adventure you will never forget. From bullets to bombs, bones to indigenous coral, tropical fish, rays and sharks, Chuuk has it all, by the bucket load. Day 1 Depart UK Day 2 Overnight in Manila (BB) Day 3 Fly via Guam to Chuuk Arrive and transfer to boat (7 nights, AI) Days 4-9 Dive Chuuk Lagoon (5 dives/day) Day 10 Day-room at resort. Transfer to airport. Day 11 Depart for UK. Transit twice on return journey Day 12 Arrive UK We recommend a twin-centre holiday with the Philippines and/or Palau in addition to the above.

Departs: Duration: Prices from:

Sunday (boat) throughout the year 12 days From £3,695 per person (inc. flights) (based on two people travelling together)

Talk to an expert on 0845 130 6980 to plan your perfect trip

What’s Bubbling

adventures on a liveaboard are great for single travellers and groups alike. Whilst some vessels remain in one area varying their itineraries to suit local conditions, others move within destinations in order to meet with demand for diving the best areas during the high seasons. It is also possible to tailor your holiday to spend time on land before or after your trip – in some remote destinations this is mandatory, due to flight schedules. Liveaboards are a fantastic way to dive your way around the world and below we have highlighted some of our most popular vessels.

Whales.....

Carpe Vita – Maldives Departing from Malé, this modern luxurious vessel cruises the central and southern atolls most of the year, but heads to the deep south in February for a series of special shark itineraries. The idyllic waters of the Indian Ocean are full of marine life and some challenging dive sites. Expect to encounter manta rays, schools of barracuda, reef sharks, turtles, whale sharks and a whole lot more! Day 1 Depart UK for Malé Day 2 Arrive and transfer to boat (7 nights, FB) Days 3-7 Dive central atolls (4 dives/day) Day 8 Return to Malé Day 9 Transfer to airport. Depart for UK, arrive same day Discounts available for consecutive trips featuring Humboldt Explorer, Caribbean Explorer ll, Turks & Caicos Explorer ll and Carpe Vita. Also book five paid trips and get the sixth free, T&C’s apply. Departs: Duration: Prices from:

Various, throughout the year 9 days (longer trips available) From £2,399 per person (inc. flights) (based on two people travelling together)

Solmar V – Mexico Ever dreamed of dancing with giant pacific manta rays, humpback whale encounters and bumping into sharks, lots of sharks? Wild and remote, the rewards are spectacular, especially if you like your marine life BIG! Visit Socorro Nov-Jun (below) or Guadalupe, Aug-Oct. Day 1 Depart UK for Cabo San Lucas Arrive and transfer to hotel (BB) Day 2 Transfer to boat (8 nights, AI) Days 3-8 Dive Socorro Islands (4 dives/day) Day 9 Return to Cabo San Lucas Day 10 Transfer to airport. Depart for UK Day 11 Arrive UK Part of the DivEncounters Alliance, featuring Galapagos Sky, MV Orion, Undersea Hunter Group, Atlantis Azores and WAOW Indonesia. Book your second trip on these boats and recieve a selection of extras plus a loyalty discount. Departs: Duration: Prices from:

Various, throughout the year 11 days (on average) From £3,799 per person (inc. flights) (based on two people travelling together)

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Holiday Planer - where to se hamerheads Maldives

Galapagos

Seen year round, larger schools are more common in the warmer months around Wolf and Darwin islands. From individuals to solid walls of sharks, hammerheads are a constant here and great place to capture the experience on camera.

If it’s sharks you are hoping to encounter here, then you must dive Madivaru Corner. It will be an early start from resort or liveaboard in the north Ari Atoll, but the experience…truly unforgettable. May - August

January - December

Layang Layang, Malaysia Rising from the deep, the island is atop a huge pinnacle – great for pelagics. Scalloped hammerheads aggregate here to mate. You won’t need coffee on these morning dives with 100+ sharks slowly cruising by – you’ll soon wake up. April - May

Rangiroa, Tahitii Diving the Avatoru and Tiputa Passes is an exhilarating experience, full of pelagic sightings in the strong currents as the waters move in and out of the lagoon. As well as dolphin and schools of grey sharks, great hammerheads are seen here annually. January - February

Protea Banks, South Africa During the summer months shark species often outnumber divers as they gather on the famous fossilized sand bank. Although they keep their distance, encounter schools of scalloped (Nov-Jan) and individual great and smooth hammerheads here. October - May

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What’s Bubbling

In order to create your tailor-made diving adventure we often discuss many aspects of your holiday. One of the most popular question is where and when the best encounters are of speciﬁc marine life. The hammerhead shark is an elusive creature often found in huge schools or walls, cruising cooler waters at depth. Below we have outlined our top destinations for that special encounter.

Malpelo Island Nowhere else will you encounter so many shark species in such abundance and close proximity. Encounters are frequent and walls of hammerhead and silky sharks often exceed 300 individuals. A must for shark enthusiasts! May - November

Yonaguni Island, Japan As well as the stunning sight of the Iseki stones, experienced divers will be overwhelmed by the large numbers of breeding hammerheads that congregate around this exposed island in the far southwest of the country. An incredible adventure! November - June

San Salvador, Bahamas Your best bet of a scalloped hammerhead encounter off the coast of this remote island. The sharks can be seen at many sites, cruising in the blue as you also enjoy the magnificent walls. November - March

Mozambique A vulnerable species in this area, the best place for an encounter is at Ponto do Ouro in the south. Large schools of scalloped hammerheads transit through the shallow water and smaller groups are found a little deeper. November - May

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