Summer/Autumn | 2019

Philippines DIVE ADVENTURE What’s Bubbling ALL NEW Island of the Gods BALI Bula from FIJI Dive in SMALL GROUP TRIPS Philippines Dive Adventure Threshers, rays & critters

Earlier this year, client Sara Jenner asked us to design a trip to the Philippines combining rest, relaxation and diving. In this article she describes her adventure to and Bohol in search of thresher sharks, critters and pelagics.

fter much discussion with my Travel five-minute walk to the dive centre. The with small critters and nudibranchs. Consultant (Cath), I decided on a hotel offered everything I needed plus A twin-centre holiday in the plenty of personal touches. And I can Next stop was Bohol. I stayed at Alona Philippines. I was looking for some highly recommend the ‘overnight oats’ Vida Beach Resort, which is relatively quiet much-needed rest and relaxation in the with frozen banana from the breakfast considering its central location, and the sun, with a good mix of diving (so I could buffet to set you up for the day. dive centre is situated in a lovely peaceful play with my new underwater camera) … Malapascua is famous for its pelagic site. There were plenty of great dives just a most importantly, at an affordable price, thresher sharks, and I made the necessary few hundred metres off the main beach, and the Philippines seemed to tick all these early start to see them three times during with beautiful -covered walls teeming boxes. my week-long stay! The diversity of macro with macro life. For bigger pelagic species life was astonishing and makes this an it’s worth heading out to Balicasag Island I started my adventure in Malapascua, ideal place for any keen photographer. – I encountered big shoals of jackfish and staying at the Buena Vida Resort and Spa, My favourite site was ‘Chocolate Box’ barracudas, lots of groupers and rays and which was a fabulous choice and only a (Chocolate Island), as it was inundated countless green turtles there. However, the

2 Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure Fantastic trip as a whole. I would Welcome definitely go back to the Philippines We are excited to announce that Regaldive and book with Dive Worldwide is now part of The Natural Travel Collection again. A special thanks to Cath along with Dive Worldwide, forming the largest is needed for her wonderful selection of dive holidays in the UK! We can product knowledge now offer you a fantastic selection of resorts and guidance. and in Egypt and the Red Sea region, among other destinations. Our expert Sara J, Philippines team has expanded too, and we look forward to helping plan your next dive holiday! We’ve packed our latest seasonal brochure full of new trips and great ideas for diving adventures – we hope you like it and find plenty to inspire your next trip(s). Our client Sara Jenner describes an epic twin- centre dive trip to the Philippines, and we have picked out some of our best small group trips and exclusive adventures.

We have been out and about across the world discovering the best resorts, locations and deals for your next diving adventure. Senior Travel Consultant Charlie Munns returns to his beloved Truk Lagoon, Emily Chappell reports on her recent trip to Fiji in search of technicolour and big fish, and Product Manager Sarah Wight enjoys Bali’s mantas, critters and sharks.

Finally, we introduce new resorts and trips in the Maldives, Palau, Philippines, French Polynesia and Papua New Guinea. Dive in ...

Dive Worldwide Team Contents

Philippines Dive Adventure 2-3 Bali & Beyond 4 What’s Bubbling - All New! 5 Iconic Liveaboard Adventures 6-7 Seasonal Underwater Escapes 8-11 Belize – Reefs, Atolls & the 12 Fiji’s Technicolour Corals & Mantas 13 Truk – The Wreck Capital of the World 14 Small Group Dive Trips 15

Image by Sara Jenner Our Diving Holidays highlight for me was Dolijo, which felt like We offer exceptional tailor-made and small Dive the Philippines swimming in an aquarium. The is group liveaboard and resort-based dive 13 days from £2,175 covered with hard and soft corals, giant sea holidays in over 190 destinations worldwide. Our holidays cater for beginners and fans and enormous barrel . We Lying within the Coral Triangle, the saw giant frogfish, different angel, butterfly, Philippines offer divers a fantastic diversity experienced divers, specific interests such and cardinal fish, various moray eels and, of macro life, pelagic species, wrecks as muck, wreck, technical, underwater every so often, a graceful eagle ray would and colourful reefs, as well as beautiful photography or particular marine life such beaches. Contact our expert Dive team to as sharks and rays. With almost 20 years’ glide past – paradise! create your very own dive adventure. We experience, our friendly Dive team includes

offer a range of suggested trip ideas and highly experienced divers who keep up-to-date I was so impressed with the holiday Cath can design a twin-centre holiday, island with new and exciting places to dive, and take created for me, that within a week of hopping adventure, or an epic tailor-made pleasure in hand picking the best diving and returning I had already booked my next trip just for you! snorkelling experiences for you! dive adventure with her – in search of some To view our full collection of holidays to the Philippines see our website. Cover: Grey reef sharks, Fakarava, French Polynesia ‘big stuff’ in Socorro! (see page 5 for details of our French Polynesia liveaboard)

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

There aren’t many places in the world that combine such an array of incredible experiences in such a small place as Bali, but we recommend you travel around the island to get the best out of this unique destination. Product Manager Sarah Wight describes the island’s highlights.

y last visit to Bali was in 1999, for Secrets is simply full of critters. The north- the millennium new year. I’d been west coast is home to colourful corals, Mmany times before, especially drop-offs, encounters with sharks, turtles during the summer holidays (I grew up and eagle rays, as well as . in Jakarta). This time was going to be different. It was a new century and I had so Topside emanates relaxation, culture and much to discover ... all for work! activity. It’s hard to decide what to do, if anything at all. The impressive sights BIG in Bali During my ten-day trip in Bali, I stayed in a of Mount Agung dominate the skyline, Suitable for divers of all abilities, this itinerary different resort every night inspecting our but you’re never too far from a rice field, travels to the mystical island of Nusa featured properties, as well as a liveaboard. rainforest or beach. The people are Lembongan for a tropical escape and a I got underwater in four renowned areas welcoming, the food amazing, and don’t unique diving experience. The mantas are mesmerising and the reefs are vibrant. and almost fully circumnavigated the island, forget to try the local beer – Bintang! stopping occasionally for a temple, scenic 11 days from £1,425 Jan-Dec photo or culinary fix. No matter your journey, I recommend you take your time and embrace the relaxed Diving highlights were instantaneous. pace of life; you’re on holiday! Parts of Bali A Visit to Bali First stop, Nusa Lembongan. Manta rays have changed in the 19 years between Explore Bali’s region with a mix of and mola mola – check. I was intrigued my visits, but there are plenty of areas shore and boat diving to experience the best of what the island has to offer. Spend five by the volcanic topography at Candidasa that remain authentic, hidden gems. The days exploring local dive sites including the and encountered many a white-tip reef island has so much to offer those seeking Liberty wreck and Seraya Secrets. You can shark at Tepekong, a site rich in fish life. excellent diving with exceptional topside add this trip to an Indonesian liveaboard safari The dive sites at Tulamben on the north- adventure. or book it as a standalone dive holiday with east coast are captivating, especially for land tour options. photographers. Here, the Liberty Wreck For our full range of Bali holidays, visit our 10 days from £1,395 lives up to its reputation and Seraya website or contact our expert Dive team. Jan-Dec

4 Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure ALL NEW What’s Bubbling We are continually adding new destinations, resorts and liveaboards to our expanding portfolio. To keep up-to-date, sign up to ‘What’s Bubbling’, our regular e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Reethi Faru Resort, Maldives Solitude One, Palau & Philippines Surrounded by a fringing reef and choice of tasty dishes at the six Designed and purpose built for Romblon and Ticao from July warm turquoise waters of the restaurants and bars; Coconut the discerning diver, Solitude One to September with plenty of Indian Ocean, this tranquil resort Spa; a variety of sporting activities excels in hospitality and onboard critter action and pelagic is set on a stunning tropical island and a dive centre. The resort’s technology for safety and diving. sightings. Intrepid divers should paradise located in the Raa Atoll. multi-national team operates Expect sharks, wrecks, caves, ask us about the vessel’s The 145 rooms and suites, built snorkelling and diving activities drop-offs and plenty of marine life occasional unique exploratory from locally sourced materials, on the house reef, as well as boat amongst the reefs as she cruises trips to the deep south including are situated amongst tropical excursions to dive on both sides the famous sites of Palau from Helen Reef Reserve. Think ‘home gardens, alongside palm trees on of the atoll. Expect plenty of big November to April. Solitude One away from home’, combined the white-sand beach and over fish action here, including mantas, then moves to the Philippines with an incredible underwater the crystal-clear water. Facilities grey reef sharks and eagle rays. and offers trips to Tubbataha in experience. include: an infinity pool; a wide 9 days from £2,595 April and June, plus Verde Island, 14 days from £4,695

M/V French Polynesia Master M/V Solomons PNG Master The world-famous beaches and 12 twin or double-bed configured Designed to comfortably host ‘Navigator’ trips as the boat dive sites that are scattered cabins located on the main and 20 passengers in 12 cabins relocates to Papua New Guinea across the French Polynesian lower decks; all have en-suite with double, twin and single and back in May and October. islands are home to incredible bathrooms. Suited to experienced bed configuration. The upper During her time here itineraries reefs and an abundant marine divers, expect incredible and deck cabins have en-suite include New Britain, New Hanover life. Operating year round, seven consistent shark encounters (think shower rooms and individual and Milne Bay. Dive highlights and ten-night itineraries explore black-tip, tiger and hammerhead) air-conditioning, whilst the lower include untouched reefs, WWll the Tuamotu Islands. Highlights plus exhilarating drift dives in deck cabins have shared facilities. wrecks, caverns and macro include the diving hotspots the channels and lagoons of this The ‘Best Of’ and wreck-specific subjects. It’s a photographer’s of Rangiroa and Fakarava picturesque South Pacific island itineraries operate in the Solomon dream and excellent facilities are atolls. This custom-built vessel nation. Islands from January to April. provided onboard. accommodates 25 passengers in 11 days from £6,095 Adventurous divers can join the 12 days from £4,875

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 (May 2019).

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

If you are looking for adventure, look no further than our range of exclusive departures to the world’s most sought-after liveaboard destinations as part of the Global Dive Alliance. Group deals and full charter rates are available for dive clubs or groups.

The Bahamas Indonesia Maldives Sensational shark encounters Epicentre of the Coral Triangle Exceptional value for money Crystal-clear waters & colourful reefs Traditional ‘phinisi’ liveaboard Pelagic encounters Varied liveaboard itineraries Mantas, sharks & whales Spectacular night dives 7 nights from £1,690 11 nights from £4,050 7 nights from £1,040

Socorro Islands Galápagos Cocos Island Fantastic pelagic encounters Prime whale shark season Walls of hammerhead sharks Extended ten-night safaris Bucket-list destination Ideal for experienced divers Prime humpback whale season Unique wildlife Dive a UNESCO World Heritage Site 8 nights from £2,695 7 nights from £4,030 10 nights from £4,425

Oman Palau Papua New Guinea Untouched coral reefs Incredible pelagic encounters Exciting new itineraries Possible whale shark encounters Dive WWll wrecks Explore WWII wrecks Perfect for experienced divers Discover the Rock Islands Unexplored & untouched dive sites 7 nights from £1,360 7 nights from £2,695 10 nights from £3,950

To discover our full range of liveaboard adventures visit our website or contact our expert team.

6 Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure We are proud to be a founding member of the Global Dive Alliance. Bringing together seven of the most reputable specialist dive tour operators from across Europe and the UK, the Global Dive Alliance offers you exclusive access to the world’s finest liveaboard adventures.

A selection of our liveaboard adventures for 2019 & beyond

The Bahamas, 7 nights from £1,690 Galápagos, 7 nights from £4,030 Date Liveaboard Nights Itinerary Date Liveaboard Nights Itinerary 29 Jun 2019 Bahamas Aggressor 7 Grand Bahama West End 25 Jul 2019 Galapagos Aggressor III 7 Classic Galapagos 28 Mar 2020 Bahamas Aggressor 10 Tiger Beach 2 Jul 2020 Galapagos Aggressor III 7 Classic Galapagos 9 May 2020 Bahamas Aggressor 7 Tiger Beach 20 Aug 2020 Galapagos Aggressor III 11 Classic Galapagos- Extended 31 Aug 2020 Galapagos Aggressor III 10 Classic Galapagos- Extended

Indonesia, 11 nights from £4,050 Date Liveaboard Nights Itinerary Cocos Island, 10 nights from £4,425 14 Oct 2019 Pindito 11 Whale-Macro Cruise Date Liveaboard Nights Itinerary 23 Dec 2019 Pindito 11 Komodo 13 Aug 2019 M/V Argo 10 Classic Cocos 8 Sep 2019 M/V Argo 10 Classic Cocos

Maldives, 7 nights from £1,040 17 Jun 2020 Okeanos Aggressor II 10 Classic Cocos 19 Sep 2020 Okeanos Aggressor II 10 Classic Cocos Date Liveaboard Nights Itinerary 20 Jul 2019 Emperor Leo 7 Best of Maldives 1 Sep 2019 Sheena 7 Southern Itinerary Oman, 7 nights from £1,360 8 Sep 2019 Sheena 7 Filitheyo to Malé Date Liveaboard Nights Itinerary 29 Sep 2019 Sheena 7 Filitheyo to Malé 12 Oct 2019 Saman Explorer 7 Daymaniyat Islands 12 Oct 2019 Emperor Leo 7 Best of Maldives 19 Oct 2019 7 Best of Maldives Emperor Leo Palau, 7 nights from £2,695 26 Oct 2019 Emperor Voyager 7 Best of Maldives Date Liveaboard Nights Itinerary 15 Mar 2020 Palau Aggressor II 7 Best of Palau Socorro Islands, 8 nights from £2,695 (Limited availability) 26 Apr 2020 Palau Aggressor II 7 Best of Palau Date Liveaboard Nights Itinerary 8 Nov 2020 Rock Island Aggressor 7 Best of Palau 19 Jun 2019 Nautilus Explorer 10 Classic Socorro- Extended Giant mantas, sharks, 10 Feb 2020 Nautilus Undersea 10 dolphins & humpbacks Papua New Guinea, 10 nights from £3,950 Giant mantas, sharks, Date Liveaboard Nights Itinerary 9 Mar 2020 Nautilus Explorer 10 dolphins & humpbacks 13 May 2020 Solomons PNG Master 10 New Hanover Explorer 13 Apr 2020 Nautilus Explorer 8 Classic Socorro 18 Apr 2021 Solomons PNG Master 10 Solomons & PNG Navigator 10 Jun 2020 Nautilus Undersea 10 Socorro & Sea of Cortez 26 Nov 2020 Nautilus Explorer 8 Classic Socorro French Polynesia, 10 nights from £5,045 Date Liveaboard Nights Itinerary 23 Oct 2021 French Polynesia Master 10 Tuamotu Islands- Extended

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

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

Summer June to August

Dive Pico: Mantas & More & Reefs Visit Grenada The Azores is one of the best destinations in This dive adventure includes turtle encounters An ideal trip for both novice and experienced the world to dive up close and personal with on the reef and a unique, breathtaking divers, during which you can expect to blue sharks in open water, and with frequent experience as you discover the crystal-clear discover beautiful hard and soft corals, turtles, mako shark sightings, this is definitely one for water, caves and passages of the world- sharks and spotted eagle rays, as well as the logbook. famous Cenotes in Mexico. several wrecks and the sculpture park. 8 days from £1,425 9 days from £1,575 9 days from £1,695

Walls, Schools & Critters Dive Beqa Lagoon & Somosomo Galápagos Liveaboard Indonesia’s Marine Park and Dive and discover some of Fiji’s top diving The Galápagos Islands are a must for Lembeh Strait offer a fantastic variety of spots including the White Wall and Rainbow all experienced divers. Encounter silky, excellent dive sites right in the heart of the Reef in Somosomo Strait, plus Beqa Lagoon Galápagos, hammerhead and whale sharks world’s top marine biodiversity region – a where up to eight species of shark can be from the comfort of a liveaboard, and come fabulous combination! encountered on one dive. face to face with unique wildlife topside. 17 days from £2,995 18 days from £4,095 10 days from £5,495

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

8 Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure We had the most wonderful time on this twin-centre holiday. We dived in Lembeh last year and loved it. Steve, Seasonal Escapes Miranda and their team make you feel so at home and welcome. We then moved on to Siladen Resort and Spa, which again was wonderful. A lovely chalet, beautiful large pool and the team made us more than welcome. Liz & Gary N, Lembeh Strait & Bunaken, Indonesia

Autumn September to November

Malta & Gozo: Wrecks & Caves Visit Oman BIG in Bali Spend a week exploring Malta’s wrecks, A great autumn getaway for divers looking for Suitable for divers of all abilities, this itinerary caves and fascinating history, combined with sunshine, adventure and diving days away travels to the mystical island of Nusa a few days on the charming island of Gozo, from the crowds. Sites range from shallow Lembongan for a tropical escape and a where diving highlights include the blue hole reefs to steeps walls, and marine life includes unique diving experience. The mantas are and inland sea sites at Dwejra. reef sharks, turtles and stingrays. mesmerising and the reefs are vibrant. 11 days from £1,075 9 days from £1,395 11 days from £1,425

Guadalupe: Great White Sharks Dive & Discover Madagascar Dive & Discover PNG Discover the world’s most exciting great white Discover the fascinating wildlife and natural Uncover the magic of Papua New Guinea, shark dive site by liveaboard. Enjoy cage wonders of northern Madagascar, including situated in the Coral Triangle, on this diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific a liveaboard adventure exploring untouched adventure to two exceptional diving areas – and experience nothing short of great white reefs and islands where seasonal visitors both renowned for macro life and pelagic shark heaven! include whale sharks and humpback whales. encounters on vibrant coral reefs. 9 days from £3,745 16 days from £4,495 17 days from £4,995

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 (May 2019).

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 9 My recent holiday on St Helena Island exceeded Seasonal Escapes my expectations by a wide margin. The scenery was stunning, and the accommodations, service and food at the Mantis Hotel were excellent. The whale shark and mobula ray diving was first class. Jeffery T, St Helena

Winter December to February

Phuket & Khao Lak Diving SharkWEEK Diving Adventure Tanzania: Dive Explore some of Thailand’s most outstanding Experience some of the best shark diving in Spend a week exploring the vibrant reefs of dive sites, with excellent opportunities to the world! This exciting trip to South Africa Chole Bay in the heart of a marine park. The spot leopard sharks amidst a kaleidoscope offers diving at where encounters diving highlight is undoubtedly the annual of marine life, and manta rays often gracing with ragged tooth, oceanic black-tip, bull, whale shark aggregation, where small males divers with their presence. hammerhead and tiger sharks are regular. can be seen feeding in the channel. 13 days from £1,595 9 days from £1,645 11 days from £2,075

Southern Maldives Liveaboard Untouched St Helena Bora Bora & Rangiroa Escape the crowds in the southern Maldives One of the most exciting dive areas to open Take in Tahiti’s most iconic diving locations on for an exceptional liveaboard experience. up in recent years, this remote Atlantic this exhilarating twin-centre adventure, with a Expect plenty of shark encounters, including outcrop promises endemic species, seldom- week on each island. Enjoy adrenaline-fuelled grey reef, hammerhead and silky. Suitable for dived and the opportunity to drift dives with eagle rays, manta rays, turtles experienced divers. with whale sharks (in season). and numerous species of shark. 10 days from £2,995 12 days from £3,095 18 days from £6,095

10 Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure It (Truk Lagoon) is easily the best of my 17 year diving career. It’s going to be difficult to beat, but I am going Seasonal Escapes to have a good try. Dive Worldwide was already my Dive Travel Agent of choice and I will give them the highest possible recommendation to friends going forward. Nick C, Truk Lagoon

Spring March to May

Visit Tobago Discover the Visayas Belize Discovered Southern Tobago is full of life and offers diving This popular itinerary in the Philippines offers Blessed with an amazing variety of diving to suit all abilities, from shallow sloping reefs the chance of thresher shark encounters in opportunities and a prolific wildlife, there’s to thrilling drift dives and wrecks. A fantastic Malapascua, a unique dive with a resident plenty to discover in Belize. Spend a week Caribbean experience and great value for sardine baitball in Moalboal and plenty of time diving the barrier reef before exploring the money. to discover the islands of the Visayas region. rainforest and Mayan archaeological sites. 9 days from £1,295 13 days from £2,175 13 days from £2,345

Truk: Wreck Extravaganza Adventure in Alor Palau & Yap Spend a week at Truk Lagoon, considered The allure of the Indonesian island of Alor is A fabulous twin-centre itinerary to two of the the best destination in the world. its mix of marine life and diving experiences: Pacific’s most iconic and spectacular diving A resort-based itinerary, two boat dives a encounter blue whales, explore reefs and destinations. Experience manta rays up close day will take you to explore the underwater discover critters. This remote location is and personal in Yap, and dive the rich ‘museum’ of an entire Japanese fleet. enchanting – it will not disappoint. colourful reefs and wrecks of Palau. 12 days from £2,795 14 days from £3,395 19 days from £4,895

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 (May 2019).

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 11 Belize Barrier reefs, atolls & the Blue Hole

Belize offers a choice of superb barrier reef, atoll and Blue Hole dives in the Caribbean Sea, as well as a chance to explore Mayan culture and enjoy time in the rainforest on land.

he Commonwealth country of Belize is famed for excellent wall diving and sea Belize Discovered is home to the second-longest gardens. There are large mangrove areas Blessed with an amazing variety of diving and T barrier reef in the world and three which provide a haven for juvenile marine a prolific wildlife, there’s plenty to discover in of the western hemisphere’s four atolls. life, while divers can expect to see eagle Belize. Spend a week diving the barrier reef Though only the size of Wales, Belize is rays, turtles, large snapper and jacks on the before exploring the rainforest and Mayan a big hitter in terms of biodiversity, both atoll’s healthy reefs. archaeological sites of the interior. marine and terrestrial, and with cathedral- 13 days from £2,345 like caves, mangroves stretching along For many the ideal combination is to dive Jan-Dec most of its 380-kilometre-long coastline, on Belize’s barrier reef then spend some sea gardens and seasonal whale shark time exploring on land. A stay at Ambergris congregations, it’s easy to understand its Caye in the north offers the chance to dive appeal to divers. On land, rainforest walks Hol Chan (‘the Cut’) and Shark Ray Alley, and Mayan archaeological sites provide while Placencia or Hopkins in the south plenty of interest. provide access for seeing the whale sharks which gather seasonally at Gladden Spit to Liveaboard itineraries tend to focus on the feed on the spawn of snapper that breed Lighthouse and Turneffe Atolls; the world- here. This natural event only happens Belize Liveaboard famous Blue Hole forms part of Lighthouse around the full moon in April, May and June Home to the second-longest barrier reef in Reef, the northernmost atoll. Originally a each year. the world, Belize makes a fabulous liveaboard cathedral-like cave, the roof of the Blue destination. Dive the world-famous Blue Hole Hole fell in 10,000 years ago, leaving a Inland, you can discover more about the and Turneffe Atoll, where you can find eagle perfectly circular entrance. At 40 metres it’s Mayan civilisation at sites such as Lamanai, rays, turtles, large snapper and jacks. possible to see stalagmites and stalactites, while for serious nature lovers, Chan 10 days from £3,475 and to swim through a maze of quartz and Chich offers the best wildlife encounters. Jan-Dec limestone while marine life swims below. It is home to five species of cat, including Turneffe Atoll is the largest of the three puma and ocelot, plus howler and spider For our full range of Belize holidays, visit atolls and closest to Belize’s coastline; it monkeys, and countless exotic birds. our website or contact our expert team.

12 Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure Fiji Soft coral capital of the world

On a recent trip to the South Pacific, Travel Consultant Emily Chappell enjoyed the technicolour corals and marine life of Fiji – Savusavu and Taveuni in the north, then Kadavu Island in the south.

never imagined I’d be lucky enough to dive in Fiji, but when I got the opportunity to visit in March, I jumped at Iit. It’s a long way to go, but incredibly rewarding, even for the well-seasoned divers amongst us!

Savusavu, on Fiji’s second-largest island of Vanua Levu, was my first stop. From there I had two dives at Namena Marine Reserve. Our first dive was at a site called The Chimneys. Named after its rock structures which are covered in hard and soft corals, the edges are decorated by glorious orange anthias, as well as photogenic blood- red sea whips and sea fans. Looking over my shoulder into the blue, I saw large schools of juvenile jacks, unicorn surgeonfish and snappers. On another dive in the reserve, I saw white-tip reef shark, supersize triggerfish and several tiny blue-dragon nudibranchs. Whilst staying on Savusavu, I dived the flagship site, Dreamhouse, which is famous for its hammerhead shark sightings. Conditions were not conducive for the hammerheads, but 55 minutes underwater yielded pairs of multi-coloured butterflyfish, a white-tip reef shark, hawksbill turtle and some inquisitive batfish.

Next I transferred to the lush ‘Garden Island’ of Taveuni, which offers topside birdwatching, waterfall tours and treks as well as access to the famous Rainbow Reef. Thousands of anthias, corals and colourful were among the highlights of my dive there, while coral bommies, regal angelfish, sea krait, black and blue nudibranchs, unicorn surgeonfish and a school of pyramid butterflyfish were among my finds diving the Coral Garden.

For the final stage of my Fijian adventure, I flew to the southern island of Kadavu. My aim – to dive Great Astrolabe Reef which is a breeding ground for fish such as marlin, sharks, tuna and giant trevally, and it’s also possible to snorkel with mantas. A two-tank morning dive to Negoro Passage was spectacular – I saw more coral species in one small area than I’ve ever seen. We glided over oodles of branching corals as well as a decent patch of lettuce coral, sighting many snappers, butterflyfish, a grey reef shark and some highly territorial triggerfish.

Great dives, superb hospitality and world-class resorts Dive Great Astrolabe Reef & Beqa Lagoon make Fiji a wonderfully rewarding destination for any Enjoy spectacular soft coral diving and encounters at diver. the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef, Great Astrolabe, followed by some exhilarating shark dives at Beqa Lagoon. To read Emily’s full account of her time in Fiji 15 days from £3,745 visit our blog. Jan-Dec

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 13 Return to Truk Lagoon 5 dives a day, on the world’s finest wrecks Senior Travel Consultant Charlie Munns lived in Truk for two and a half years. In March, nine years after leaving, Charlie was finally able to return there – to the world’s greatest wreck diving destination – joining the liveaboard he previously worked on.

left Truk Lagoon (officially known as though most opt for three or four. It’s a We saw hemispherical beach mines, Chuuk State) in October 2010, and earlier very relaxed pace out there and you’re bulldozers, tractors, battle tanks. We dived Ithis year I returned, with 15 clients who free to make each dive when you want, a submarine (one of a very few Japanese had signed up to our week-long liveaboard within a generous two-hour window. The subs within diving depths). We dived a on Truk Odyssey. I met the group, who crew makes delicious food catering for destroyer, submarine tender, aircraft supply were coming from all over the globe, in Western tastes, and there are snacks, teas ship and a bomber aeroplane. We also saw Guam for the final leg to Truk. For me, and coffees, as well as an open bar in the the remains of the Japanese sailors in their getting there involved four flights and 48 evening. watery grave. It is important to understand hours of total travel time. Is it worth it? the historical nature of this place. In Truk, You bet! The trip was a great success. I made 21 many clients were experiencing deco dives during the week, and I could have diving, and ‘self regulation’ during dives, for I was half expecting Truk to have moved done more if I had made the night-dives. the first time and loving it. on and changed in my absence, but this is Though most of the wrecks are similar Truk. Nothing changes. Electricity is by no in design and name, that is where their Truk has an aura about it like no other means guaranteed and WiFi is a luxury. It similarity ends. Each is unique. From the dive location. It is a long way to travel. It is is only divers who venture this far and, with first dive, I could see the diving was really tiring… but my, does it deliver. It will steal a a diving tourism of 2,000-3,000 visitors ticking the boxes – cargo in the holds, bit of your heart. I know it has got me once each year, Truk remains a very obscure and the abundant marine life, the world- again. unique location (the Red Sea and Maldives class exploration of the bowels of each welcome that number every day!). Having wreck. The engine rooms – wow! We Truk Wrecks Liveaboard all arrived safely, and with a good night’s saw lots of bottles, Porcelain, glassware, Quite simply, the finest wreck diving sleep and a belly full of food, our next task bullets, bombs, shoes and boots, gas destination in the world. Enjoy Truk by luxury was to join the Odyssey – which has the masks, medical boxes still containing liveaboard to get the most out of this unique deserved reputation among divers of being a stethoscope and syringes. We saw dive destination. the ‘top dog’ of the Truk liveaboards. The binoculars, range finders, huge 14-inch 15 days from £4,895 Odyssey has a ‘five dives a day’ itinerary, artillery shells, intact light bulbs and fixtures. Jan-Dec

14 Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure Join a Group Trip

Group diving holidays are hugely rewarding, allowing you to dive with like-minded people, make friends and experience some superb diving. Below we have highlighted five of our most popular group diving trips. For our full selection of group holidays please visit the website.

Learn to Dive in Malta With year round sunshine, excellent Highlights visibility and calm waters, Malta is an • PADI Open Water Course affordable place to learn to dive. The • Suitable for 10 years & over PADI course takes up to four days and • Book extra dives in Malta or Gozo includes a mix of classroom, pool and open water diving in the sea to complete Departs 16 Jun & 8 Sep 2019 your qualification. Once qualified you can Group size: 8 continue diving in Malta. 8 days from £875

Get Wrecked Norway Explore historic shipwrecks, magnificent Highlights kelp forests and a wealth of marine life on • Explore huge kelp forests this resort-based cold water dive adventure • Dive Frankenwald wreck based on the shores of the vast Sognefjord. • Great for dive clubs & groups An area of great strategic importance during WWII, the area boasts over 30 Departs 23 Jun 2019 superbly preserved shipwrecks, including Group size: 10 the vast German freighter, the Frankenwald. 5 days from £1,595

Indonesia – Sali Bay Discovery Look for sharks, schooling fusiliers, Highlights barracuda and bumphead parrotfish on • Muck & macro diving drift dives along pristine coral walls in South • Pristine reefs & few tourists! Halmahera. With an abundance of marine life • Led by team member Mat Howell in this remote region, sightings of reef sharks and turtles are commonplace and an array Departs 13 Oct 2019 of unique critters can be found including a Group size: 12 rare species of walking epaulette shark. 11 days from £3,295

Indonesia – Dive into Lembeh For divers interested in the weird and Highlights EXPERT LED ADVENTURE wonderful, Lembeh Strait offers the best • Over 50 dive sites in the Strait muck diving on earth, with new species • A photographer’s paradise still being found! Join marine biologist and • Led by marine biologist Dr Richard Smith underwater photographer Dr Richard Smith in search of numerous species of Departs 12 Apr 2020 seahorse, nudibranch, frogfish, scorpionfish Group size: 20 and mandarin fish. 10 days from £2,345

Philippines – Magic Photo Experience The aquarium-like reefs along the coastline Highlights EXPERT LED ADVENTURE of Anda on Bohol Island boast spectacular • Unlimited diving package marine life, from tiny critters to larger pelagic • Expert help & tuition throughout from species. Join experts Nick and Caroline Frogfish Photography Robertson-Brown to discover and photograph the dazzling array of marine Departs 19 May 2020 life at muck sites, along beautiful walls, Group size: 16 amongst mangroves and on colourful reefs. 13 days from £2,695

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

[email protected] | 01962 302087 | www.diveworldwide.com 15 Magnificent Mexico Mexico offers exceptional diving on both Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Embark on a liveaboard to Isla Guadalupe, the Sea of Cortez or Socorro for big fish encounters, or dive the Cenotes and reefs of the Riviera Maya, along with a visit to . Our trip ideas for holidays in Mexico are designed to inspire you and can be tailored to suit your requirements …

Cenotes & Reefs, Yucatán Peninsula BIG in Mexico, Sea of Cortez Socorro Liveaboard Dive the unique Cenotes of Yucatán Resort-based dive adventure Best big fish diving in the world Crystal-clear waters Dive with whale sharks & hammerheads Numerous species of shark Turtle encounters on the reefs Enjoy thrilling encounters with sea lions Encounters with giant Pacific manta rays 9 days from £1,575 10 days from £2,295 12 days from £3,795

To discover our full range of diving holidays visit our website or contact our expert team. We create outstanding 01962 302087 [email protected] Diving Holidays www.diveworldwide.com Long Barn South, Sutton Manor Farm, Bishop’s Sutton, Over 190 locations worldwide, hand-picked for the Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0AA, United Kingdom best diving and snorkelling experiences.

Finest dive locations Dive Worldwide is part of The Natural Travel Superb selection of resorts & liveaboards Collection Ltd, a small independent and privately Tailor-made specialists owned travel company that places a special Highly experienced & knowledgeable team emphasis on sustainable tailor-made holidays. Personalised service 100% independent 100% financial protection

Photographs courtesy of: Dr Richard Smith, Frogfish Photography, Charlie Munns, Emily Chappell, Sarah Wight, Sara Jenner & Dmitry Knyazev. Apologies for any omissions.

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