Dive Atlas Of The World: An Illustrated Reference To The Best Sites - Jack Jackson (2016)

APPENDIX

EAST COAST USA (INCLUDING WEST COAST OF FLORIDA)

CLIMATE

This vast area has climates varying from the temperate north to almost Caribbean-like within the Gulf Stream and to the south. The northeastern USA can have temperatures below freezing from November to April. The Florida Keys and Bermuda are sub-tropical with temperatures from 18°-23°C (65°-73°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer. The hurricane season on the North Carolina coast and Florida Keys is from August to December, while for Bermuda it is June to November.

BEST TIME TO GO

All areas are best dived in the northern summer, but the hurricane season is a problem. However, those sites from North Carolina and further south, including Bermuda, can be dived all year round. The North Atlantic can get really rough, but Bermuda has wrecks all around the islands, making it possible to find leeward diving somewhere in most weathers.

GETTING THERE

The northern wrecks are reached from various cities including Atlantic City, New Jersey, New York and Massachusetts. North Carolina wrecks are similarly reached from various cities including Morehead City, Beaufort, Wilmington and Hatteras. The Florida Keys are reached via Miami. Bermuda can be reached directly from Europe or via the USA.

WATER TEMPERATURE

In the north, bottom temperature on wrecks such as the Andrea Doria can be as low as 7°C (45°F) and rarely rises above 15°C (60°F) in late summer. Off North Carolina it ranges from 13°C (55°F) in winter and spring, to 26°C (79°F) in late summer. In the Florida Keys, it can be as low as 22°C (72°F) from December to March and up to 29°C (84°F) from April to November. In Bermuda it ranges from 18°C (65°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in August.

VISIBILITY

Visibility is poor in the north, but generally clear in the Gulf Stream - more than 15-30m (50-100ft). Ebb tides and stirred-up sand can limit visibility on some sites.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

The wrecks in the north have cold-water species including lobsters. North Carolina has a mixture of cold-water species and tropical species that have travelled north in the Gulf Stream. The Florida Keys and Bermuda have a rich collection of tropical species.

DEPTH OF DIVES

The northern wrecks range from relatively shallow to quite deep and some exceed 60m (200ft). Most of the popular North Carolina wrecks are in the 24-46m (80-150ft) range. The Bibb is at 30m (100ft) and the Duane is at 28m (90ft). In Bermuda most wrecks are shallow, generally less than 30m (100ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

There are several facilities on the mainland of the USA. In Bermuda there is one at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, Paget, Bermuda. Telephone 236 2345.

SNORKELLING

None on the wrecks, popular off the Florida Keys and Bermuda.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

The northern wrecks are for very experienced divers only. The other wrecks can be enjoyed by most divers, though the deeper ones require more training.

All operators offer extensive facilities, diving courses and have equipment for hire, the larger ones offer Nitrox and technical diving.

UNITED KINGDOM

CLIMATE

The weather is very changeable, air temperatures are affected by the wind-chill factor. Summer is May to September and winter is October to April. Most divers use dry suits year round, though some use thick semidry suits in summer.

BEST TIME TO GO

Year-round if sheltered, but in summer only for offshore sites. Summer has the advantage of a high sun giving greater penetration of light into the water.

GETTING THERE

A good system of international and domestic flights, roads and ferries mean that all sites are easily reached.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Water temperature ranges from 2°-8°C (36°-46°F) in winter, to 9°-18°C (48°-65°F) in summer, depending on the depth. The west coast tends to be warmest and temperatures are highest in late summer.

VISIBILITY

Generally poor at 2-20m (6½-65ft), depending on the site and weather.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Many sites are very good, with a high density of seaweed and bottom-dwelling creatures, including anemones, crustaceans and nudibranchs, small shoals of fish sheltering from the current in the lee of the rocks, or in crevices, and many species of pelagic fish. There are some exotic visitors in the Gulf Stream and some introduced, alien species.

DEPTH OF DIVES

From the surface to depths well beyond the accepted limits of sport or recreational technical diving. Diving too deep is a common problem, so act sensibly.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

There are many hyperbaric chambers in the UK. Most are near the coast, but there are others inland for divers diagnosed with a problem associated with decompression later. Hyperbaric treatment is also used in treating diseases not connected with diving.

SNORKELLING

Not recommended in most places due to tidal currents and poor visibility.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

All diving should be treated with respect even on calm summer days. At sea the tides can be vicious and the weather can change quickly. Most dives require slack water. Dives should be planned with knowledge of the local tides and weather forecasts. When diving with a day boat or live-aboard boat operating in the area, respect the planning of the skipper who would know the waters.

Dive operators would have most facilities and popular equipment; day and live-aboard boats would carry all necessary safety equipment. Divers should not dive in a dry suit without proper training in its safe use.

Divers should fully understand the problems and equipment requirements of diving in cold water before diving in lakes or quarries in winter.

SCOTLAND

SCAPA FLOW

CLIMATE

The weather is variable due to its exposed northern location. Scapa Flow is susceptible to fog in the early summer months as the land warms up, while the sea is still cold at around 7°C (45°F).

BEST TIME TO GO

The water is warmer from August to October, but this also coincides with an algae bloom. However, while visibility underwater may be poor at that time, there is also more light and the water is warmer.

GETTING THERE

There is a daily car ferry service from Scrabster on the Scottish mainland to Stromness, the centre for diving Scapa Flow. Daily flights into Kirkwall are also available through British Airways from Edinburgh and Aberdeen.

VISIBILITY

Best time is during the winter months (December to March) after the plankton blooms. The entrance to Burra Sound on the blockships is the clearest at any time of year because this is where the tidal movement sweeps the bad visibility away before it. However, the only drawback to this is the limited dive time at slack water - usually only around 20 minutes.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Average blockship is around 15m (50ft), the German war ships start in about 36m (120ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

Dial 999 and ask for the coastguard. They will automatically patch you through to the nearest decompression chamber if required.

CATHEDRAL ROCK

BEST TIME TO GO

After the spring plankton bloom, June to July are usually excellent and a perfect time for viewing seabirds diving underwater, beneath the towering cliffs of St Abbs Head.

HOW TO GET THERE

Travel up the A1 trunk road until you reach Scotland. Turn second right along the Eye-mouth to Coldingham road, the A1107. In Coldingham village square, take a tight turning to your right, which is well sign-posted, to St Abbs. As you approach the village, the road splits into two. To get to St Abbs harbour take the main branch to the right. St Abbs is only about 7km (4 miles) off the A1.

VISIBILITY

Usually 6-15m (20-50ft). The winter months, between November and March, are generally best, but periodic winter storms can spoil this.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Shore dives average 8-14m (25-45ft).

SOUTH AFRICA/GREAT WHITES

CLIMATE

The western coast has cold currents washing up from Antarctica. Summer is from November to February and winter from May to July. The areas where shark diving is done have a Mediterranean climate with winter rainfall.

BEST TIME TO GO

April to September for diving with Great Whites at Seal Island. October to May for the Makos.

GETTING THERE

South African Airways has frequent scheduled flights. Most major airlines have scheduled flights either direct to Cape Town or to Johannesburg, with a connecting flight by domestic airline to Cape Town.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Great Whites: 13-19°C (55-66°F). Makos and Blues: 18-23°C (65-73°F).

VISIBILITY

Great Whites: 2-15m (6½-50ft). Mako and Blues 10-30m (33-100ft) and more.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Great White Sharks, seals and many small species of fish. On Mako and Blue dive trips, one can also see huge tuna and other large pelagic species.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Great Whites: just below the surface for cage dives. Mako and Blue Sharks: down to 15m (50ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

Closest chamber is in Simon’s Town, 20 minutes from dive site.

SNORKELLING

Only on Mako and Blue Shark trips. All Great White dives are done with scuba.

SPAIN (MEDAS ISLANDS) AND FRANCE

CLIMATE

Windy and cool in the spring with high rainfall. Average temperatures of 25°C (78°F) from June to October.

BEST TIME TO GO

June to September when light, warm offshore winds predominate. However, this is a year-round diving destination and when there is little rain, the weather is generally perfect for diving.

GETTING THERE

There are no direct flights to Estartit, so most visitors will fly to Barcelona or Gerona in Spain or Perpignan in France, all of which are about an hour’s drive from Estartit.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Approximately 20°C (68°F) is average, so thick wet suits or dry suits are recommended. The temperature in the Mediterranean never drops below 10°C (50°F).

VISIBILITY

The River Tor governs the visibility around the islands. The clearest months with least rainfall are June to September.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Excellent for precious red corals and large grouper encounters.

DEPTH OF DIVES

All depths available, but the average is around 25m (80ft) and less.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

In La Estartit.

SNORKELLING

Very good off the Medas Islands as there are large schools of fish and grouper close to the shorelines.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Dive centres cater for large groups, so hire equipment is excellent quality, although most people bring own equipment. Dive schools teach in several languages and are affiliated to most major training organizations.

MALTA, GOZO, COMINO

CLIMATE

Very hot, with an average of 30°C (86°F) in the summer. It can be windy from the north, with very little rainfall, but expect small but very heavy showers in September.

BEST TIME TO GO

From May to the end of September, maximum temperatures will range from 30°C (86°F) to 34°C (93°F), with almost 13 hours of sunshine, so protect yourself accordingly. The power of the sun is often disguised by a northwesterly breeze, especially later in the year when the majjistral, as it is known locally, is at its strongest. The northeasterly wind is known as the grigal, and the northerly tramuntana causes the occasional winter storm. The warm sirocco that blows off the Sahara often makes the sea rough along southern shores, and all diving is then done on the north shore.

GETTING THERE

Air Malta has international flights to virtually all the major European cities. A number of other airlines and charter operators also fly into Malta. Transfer to Gozo can be done by helicopter or by regular ferry service.

WATER TEMPERATURE

From October to April temperatures are between 17° (63°F) and 28°C (82°F). Temperatures start to fall in November and are down to 14°C (57°F) in January and February, when thicker wet suits, even dry suits, are needed.

VISIBILITY

Over 45m (150ft) average off the shore at the deeper sites. In the shallow bays the average is 12m (40ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Very good for invertebrates and sea horses. Few large schools of fish, but what is there, is friendly.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Over 30m (100ft) average, but since most dives are shore dives, depths are available to suit all experiences.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

In Malta and Gozo, telephone 196 Hyperbaric Unit.

SNORKELLING

Snorkelling is very good from the shore and most locals participate, so it can get busy at popular locations.

DIVING PRACTICALITIES

Teaching is done in many languages and islands are perfect for learning to dive. Best feature is the underwater topography with many caves and caverns.

Visitors need a Maltese diving permit. If your qualification is less than the equivalent of CMAS two-star diver, you need to dive with a Maltese-registered instructor at all times, and may need to sit another medical.

There are 28 diving operations registered with the Ministry of Tourism. Others (mainly German) operate seasonally in various hotels.

ISRAEL AND JORDAN

CLIMATE

Warm and dry in winter, but there can be cold spells. Average temperature 20°C (70°F). Hot and dry in summer averaging 35°C (95°F).

BEST TIME TO GO

This region is dived all year round, but is best in summer, June to August. High season for bookings is October to April.

GETTING THERE

In Israel, Eilat Airport can only accommodate small aircraft. A few divers fly to Tel Aviv and then travel on to Eilat by road, but charter flights go to the military airport at Ovda, 40 minutes from Eilat by road. Some divers cross the border to and from Aqaba in Jordan. In Jordan, most divers for Aqaba will change flights in the capital Amman, though now that the Eilat/Aqaba border is open it can be cheaper to travel via Israel. The Egyptians have recently enlarged Râs el Naqb airport to serve Taba and Nuweiba in the Sinai, so divers can cross into Israel at Taba from here, but the Egyptian customs at Taba can give problems.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Averages 25°C (77°F) in summer, 19°C (66°F) in winter.

VISIBILITY

Lower on average than at other Red Sea sites due to industrial and port activity along this part of the coast.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Surprisingly good. The fish are used to divers not being a threat so they allow them to approach closely. Swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Reef in Israel is a highlight.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Mostly shallow.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

Israel - Yoseftal Hospital, Eilat. Telephone (chamber) +972(0)8 6358023.

Jordan - The Princess Haya (Bint El-Hussein) hospital in the centre of Aqaba. Telephone +962(0)3 2014111.

SNORKELLING

Excellent over the shallows and with the dolphins at Dolphin Reef.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Good buoyancy control to avoid damaging the coral and some form of protective clothing against fire coral and stinging hydroids. The Israeli authorities now ban close approach to coral and newly-qualified dive masters can interpret this too literally. Ear infections, often caused by fungus, are common with divers and snorkellers. Use an ear-drying agent after each dive.

NORTH EGYPT

CLIMATE

Warm and mostly dry in winter, with an average temperature of 20°C (70°F), but cold and windy out to sea, a dry suit, semidry suit or thick wet suit is preferable. Hot and dry in summer, with an average temperature of 35°C (95°F), but the winds at sea can be strong, when wet suits are fine provided you have warm clothes available when on a boat. If you have booked a live-aboard, you are only exposed to the heat ashore when travelling.

BEST TIME TO GO

This region is dived all year round, but is best in summer, May to September. High season for bookings is October till April.

GETTING THERE

There are international airports at Râs Nusrâni (Sharm el Sheikh) for the Sinai and south of Hurghada for Hurghada and El Gouna. There is also a smaller airport at El Gouna. Both Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada airports receive direct charter flights or connecting flights via Cairo. The Egyptians have recently enlarged Râs el Naqb airport to serve north Sinai with charter flights.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Averages 25°C (77°F) in summer, 19°C (66°F) in winter.

VISIBILITY

Visibility is least 20m (65ft) on fringing or nearshore reefs, except where divers or currents stir up the silt. However, 30-40m (100-130ft) is common over deep water.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Very good, a high density of stony and soft corals, gorgonias, other invertebrates and both reef and pelagic fish.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Depth of dive can range from the surface to well beyond the accepted limits of sport or recreational technical diving. Depths of 30-40m (100-130ft) are common for experienced divers.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

There are chambers at Dahab next to the Dahabeya Hotel, Sharm el Sheikh opposite the naval harbour, El Gouna Hospital north of Hurghada and the Naval Hospital, Hurghada.

SNORKELLING

Almost everywhere, except where sharks are common, when a snorkeller on the surface can be mistaken for a fish in trouble.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Everywhere - good buoyancy control to avoid damaging the coral and some form of protective clothing against fire coral and stinging hydroids. At night there is an extra problem with lionfish. Ear infections, in the Red Sea often caused by a fungus, are common with both divers and snorkellers. Use an ear-drying agent after each dive.

SOUTH EGYPT

CLIMATE

Hot and humid on land in summer, but the winds at sea can be strong. Thin wet suits are fine, but it is wise to have warm clothes on the boat. If you have booked a live-aboard, you are only exposed to the heat ashore when travelling. Pleasantly warm on land in winter, but cold out to sea, a dry suit or thick wet or semidry suit will aid comfort between Port Safâga and El Quseir at that time. The Brothers Islands, Elphinstone Reef, Dædalus Reef, Gezîret Zabargad, Rocky Islet and St Johns are kept at a pleasant temperature in summer by the winds, but in the water it is warm enough for a thin wet suit.

BEST TIME TO GO

Fringing and nearshore reefs can be dived all year round, but are best May to September. High season for bookings is October till April.

The Brothers Islands, Dædalus Reef, Gezîret Zabargad, Rocky Islet and St Johns are best dived from May to July. Charters run in August and September, but the sea can be rough. Elphinstone is best dived from April to September.

GETTING THERE

There are two routes, depending on your destination. Live-aboards for the offshore islands and reefs must depart from Hurghada or the new Port Ghalib International Marina at Marsa ’Alam. For Hurghada there are charter flights or connecting flights via Cairo to Hurghada airport, which is midway between Hurghada and Port Safaga. Then there is an asphalt road if you are heading further south. Charter flights or connecting flights via Cairo now go to Marsa ’Alam airport for the operators based well to the south.

WATER TEMPERATURE

At Port Safâga to El Quseir - the average is 25°C (77°F) in summer, 19°C (66°F) in winter.

Further south to the Sudanese border - the average is 28°C (82°F) offshore in summer, 30°C (86°F) on fringing reefs, but can drop to 23°C (73°F) in winter.

At the Brothers Islands, Elphinstone Reef, Dædalus Reef, Gezîret Zabargad, Rocky Islet and St Johns the average is about 27°C (81°F) in summer.

VISIBILITY

At least 20m (65ft) on fringing or nearshore reefs, except where divers or currents stir up the silt on wrecks, 30-40m (100-130ft) is common over deep water.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Very good, a high density of stony and soft corals, gorgonias, other invertebrates and both reef and pelagic fish. Sharks of many types are found on the offshore reefs.

DEPTH OF DIVES

From the surface to depths well beyond the accepted limits of sport or recreational technical diving. Depths of 30-40m (100-130ft) are common for experienced divers.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

There are chambers at Sharm el Sheikh opposite the naval harbour, El Gouna Hospital north of Hurghada, the Naval Hospital, Hurghada and the Ecolodge Shagra Village, Marsa Shagra.

SNORKELLING

Almost everywhere, except where sharks are common and a snorkeller on the surface runs the risk of being mistaken for a fish in trouble.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Everywhere - good buoyancy control is necessary to avoid damaging the coral. some form of protective clothing against fire coral and stinging hydroids is necessary. At night there is an extra problem with lionfish. Ear infections, in the Red Sea often caused by a fungus, are common in divers as well as snorkellers. Use an ear-drying agent after each dive.

Operators stock the minimum of equipment, divers are generally better off if they are self-sufficient: carrying all equipment and spares - any prescription medicines, decongestants, batteries and film.

SUDAN

CLIMATE

Pleasantly warm and dry in winter, but at that time the offshore winds can be very strong and it is wise to have warm clothes on the boat. In summer it can be unpleasantly hot on land with temperatures of 47°C (117°F), but you are only ashore when travelling, whereas at sea the temperature is comfortable, but humid. Thin wet suits are best in winter, but Lycra Skins are fine in summer.

BEST TIME TO GO

Sudan is dived all year. Most live-aboard boats operating out of Port Sudan only do so in winter, but it can get very windy and rough at that time. The best time to go is May till July and again in September. Avoid August when rain in nearby Ethiopia causes bad weather.

GETTING THERE

It is best to take a live-aboard boat from Egypt. Air connections are notoriously unreliable. Try to get an international flight via Cairo to Port Sudan rather than arriving at Khartoum. Most reliable are the flights from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, but these are only available to Saudi Arabian nationals or expatriates working there.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Averages 28°C (82°F) in summer, 27°C (81°F) in winter. There can be highs of 30°C (86°F) in places, and these patches feel like a hot bath.

VISIBILITY

You can expect at least 20m (65ft), except where divers or currents stir up the silt on wrecks, while 30-40m (100-130ft) is common over deep water.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

The greatest density and diversity of species in the Red Sea can be found in the Sudan, with excellent reef fish, stony, gorgonian and soft corals. The absence of large-scale commercial fishing means that there are plenty of pelagic species, especially sharks.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Diving is possible from the surface to depths well beyond the accepted limits of sport or recreational technical diving.

Depths of more than 30-50m (100-165ft) are common for experienced divers.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

There are working hyperbaric chambers in Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), but these are not available to most recreational divers. The nearest chamber available without any bureaucratic problems is in Egypt north of Marsa’Alam at Ecolodge Shagra Village, Marsa Shagra, so you would be well advised to dive connservatively.

SNORKELLING

Snorkelling is possible almost everywhere except where sharks are common - they can mistake a snorkeller on the surface for a fish in trouble.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Everywhere - good buoyancy control is essential to avoid damaging the coral and some form of protective clothing is necessary against fire coral and stinging hydroids. At night there is an additional problem with lionfish. Ear infections, in the Red Sea often caused by a fungus, are common in divers as well as snorkellers. Use an ear-drying agent after each dive.

It is important to take everything you are likely to need with you, including any prescription medicines. Operators do not stock any equipment and there are no dive shops. Batteries and even toilet paper can be unobtainable for months.

EAST AFRICA

CLIMATE

Tanzania has two seasons: dry and rainy. Most of the year the country is dry, sunny and hot. In March and April heavy rainstorms often make roads impassable.

GETTING THERE

A few airlines fly to Tanzania, including South African Airways, Tanzania Air, British Airways and Gulf Air. The main airport is near the capital, Dar es Salaam. A new airport has been built near Mount Kilimanjaro, where KLM is the main operator.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

There is a fully functional recompression chamber in Mombassa, annually checked by the US Navy.

SEYCHELLES

CLIMATE

The southeast monsoon blows from mid-May to October, although the wind rarely exceeds 24km/h (15mph). The highest rainfall occurs around December and January, with the hottest months being March and April. Temperatures average about 27°C (80°F).

BEST TIME TO GO

May to December are best as far as the weather is concerned, but this also coincides with plankton blooms. However, the reduced underwater visibility is offset by the improved opportunity to see Whale Sharks and mantas.

GETTING THERE

British Airways and Air Seychelles run regular direct flights from London to Mahé.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Average 29°C (84°F), but does fluctuate with the spring and autumn plankton blooms, when temperatures may soar into the high 30s°C (90s°F) and lead to coral bleaching.

VISIBILITY

Average is 25m (80ft) inshore, but on the offshore seamounts and outer islands, visibility may exceed 45m (150ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

The Seychelles suffered badly from the El Niño/Southern Oscillation Phenomenon and much of the inshore soft and leathery corals were lost. Not primarily known for their coral reefs, the stony and soft corals on the offshore granite boulders have recovered well and populations of fish life are at their highest level now. Most of the dive sites are just a 10 to 20-minute boat ride from shore.

WHALE SHARKS

Best time for Whale Sharks is in November, when large numbers of them congregate around the coastal shallows feeding on the rich plankton.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Inshore is 12-15m (40-50ft) offshore depths over 30m (100ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

At Victoria on Mahe.

SNORKELLING

Superb around all the islands. The Seychelles are a ‘high yield’ destination with lots of marine life for very little effort.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

All levels catered for and dive instruction to the highest standard given in several languages.

CHAGOS

CLIMATE

The Chagos Archipelago lies just south of the equator, so the climate is tropical. Winds are mostly light northwesterly during October to April, and stronger southeasterly during May to September. Severe tropical cyclones are rare.

BEST TIME TO GO

Calmest conditions are from January to April. July is also reported to be relatively calm. Private yachts visit at any time, although most pass through during the period of the northeast monsoon in the northern Indian Ocean (November to April).

GETTING THERE

Getting to the Chagos is half the challenge. At present, under the terms of the Anglo-American defence agreement, no commercial activities are allowed in the Chagos. This includes dive charters. While things might change in the future, at present there are only two ways for divers to get there: you can either join or organize your own scientific expedition, or sail there by private yacht.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Water temperatures are consistently warm, varying from about 27°C to 31°C (80°F) to (88°F). A wet suit is not a necessity, but a thin neoprene or lycra suit will offer comfort on longer or repeat dives, as well as protection against scratches and stings.

VISIBILITY

Visibility is normally very good around these oceanic reefs. Inside the atolls it can drop to 10m (33ft) on occasions, but visibility of 30m (100ft) or more is the norm outside the atolls.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Reef fish and invertebrate abundance and diversity are excellent. Nearly 800 species of reef fish have been recorded. Coral diversity is the highest in the central Indian Ocean. Although corals were badly affected by coral bleaching in 1998, recovery is now well under way.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Dives are on coral reefs, most of which reach the surface. On the outside of the atolls the reefs drop away to the ocean depths. So dive depths are very much a matter of personal choice. However, there are no recompression facilities available (military divers at Diego Garcia have their own facilities, but for nonmilitary divers the nearest recompression chamber is in the Maldives). Consequently, dive profiles should be suitably conservative.

HOSPITAL/RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

None for civilian use. There are excellent facilities at the US military base on Diego Garcia, but the island is definitely out of bounds to unauthorized persons. The nearest (small) hospital is on the island of Hithadhoo in Addu Atoll in the Maldives, over 480km (300 miles) to the north. The nearest reasonably sized and equipped hospital is on Malé in central Maldives, and the nearest recompression chamber on Bandos Island Resort nearby. Both are over 950km (600 miles) north of the Chagos.

SNORKELLING

Snorkelling on the coral reefs is superb. Reef fish are a particular attraction.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

There are no facilities. You need to bring everything you need for diving; tools and spares for small repairs to equipment; first aid and prescription medicines; personal items and food.

MAURITIUS

CLIMATE

Mauritius has a maritime tropical climate with only two seasons - summer and winter - the difference between them being so marginal that spring and autumn are smudged out. During the summer months (November to April) temperatures can climb up to 35°C (95°F) at times and, combined with high humidity, can become very uncomfortable. During winter (May to October), the average temperature is a comfortable 25°C (77°F), humidity levels are reduced and the nights are cooler.

BEST TIME TO GO

Mauritius is dived all year round. Best months are October and November - usually the driest months and outside the normal cyclone season when the prevailing winds can be a problem.

GETTING THERE

Mauritius is a tropical island and therefore can only be reach by aircraft or by boat. Air Mauritius, SAA, Air France, British Airways, Condor, Emirates and Singapore Airlines have scheduled flights to Mauritius.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Water temperatures vary between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82°F) and thin wet suits are recommended. When diving on the drop-off, temperatures can descend below 20°C (68°F), depending on depth.

VISIBILITY

Inside the lagoon visibility can be as much as 20m (65ft), but on the drop-off it decreases to anything between 5m (15ft) and 15m (48ft), depending on depth.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Although Mauritius is a tropical island, it lies at the southern extreme of the tropics and therefore its marine life is not as rich and colourful as that of islands lying closer to the equator. Nevertheless, Mauritius has its fair share of marine beauty and things of interest for divers.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Most diving in Mauritius is done between 18m (60ft) and 25m (80ft), but some dives go down to 40m (130ft) and even beyond. However, this is only for very experienced divers.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

There is only one facility on the island, situated at the paramilitary Special Mobile Force unit at Vacoas, near Port Louis.

SNORKELLING

This can be done anywhere inside the lagoon that surrounds the island. The closer to the barrier reef and the drop-off beyond, the richer the marine life. However, this can mean a fairly long swim.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

There are 23 dive centres in Mauritius that are registered with the Mauritius Scuba Diving Association. Each is run by professional staff and all are run from premises that are incorporated within a hotel or resort complex. Each offers equipment for hire and operates dive boats which take you to the drop-off. All necessary facilities are available on the island.

MOZAMBIQUE

PONTA DA BARRA

CLIMATE

Tropical, with a summer rainy season from November to April. Temperatures drop slightly during winter, May to October. Temperatures range from 15°C to over 32°C (60°F to 90°F).

BEST TIME TO GO

This is a year-round destination, although mantas and Whale Sharks are summer visitors.

GETTING THERE

There are two scheduled flights from Johannesburg (South Africa) to Inhambane every week. Guests are met and taken by car to the various hotels that line the beach of Barra and Tofo. For those who want to drive there, Barra is almost 1000km (over 600 miles) from Johannesburg and 400km (250 miles) from Maputo on reasonable roads.

WATER TEMPERATURES

The temperature ranges from a cool 21°C (70°F) in winter to a warm 29°C (84°F) in summer.

VISIBILITY

The visibility over the reefs is entirely dependent on the ocean currents. These move with the winds generated by the weather fronts along the coast of southern Africa. The northern winds bring the plankton blooms, while the southeasters bring the blue water.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Marine life is typical of the tropical reefs of the Indian Ocean, with a great variety to cater for all preferences, from the larger sharks and mantas to the tiny gobies, shells and small fry. The coast is frequented by Whale Sharks and mantas; there is even a manta cleaning station on one of the reefs. The mangroves offer a unique variety of marine inhabitants and the lucky few may even spot a Dugong or two.

DEPTH OF DIVES

The reefs closest to the shore are a shallow 6m (20ft) while the deepest reef - Giant Castle - reaches a depth of more than 35m (115ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

For minor injuries there is a hospital at Inhambane, but both diving lodges have evacuation policies to the nearest South African hospital (in Nelspruit) or recompression facility at Richards Bay in South Africa. However, it is a one person chamber so any more would need to go to Durban.

SNORKELLING

The sheltered bay offers great snorkelling at only 3-5m (10-16ft), but the best snorkelling experience, with the most to see, is to be had when drifting with the tide through the mangroves.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

There are several hotels, self-catering facilities, camp sites and backpacker camps, but only two diving lodges - one at Ponta da Barra and the other at Praia do Tofo. Both facilities are fully equipped and include a dive school.

There are dive sites to suit all dive qualifications. Operators offer dive courses, equipment hire and refills. It is advisable to take malaria precautions.

BAZARUTO ARCHIPELAGO

CLIMATE

Typical tropical summer rains fall between December and March. Temperatures drop to 15°C (60°F) in winter and reach a summer high of 32°C (90°F).

BEST TIME TO GO

The archipelago is an all-year-round destination, although the winter months between March and September offer cooler nights and clear skies.

GETTING THERE

The best way to get to the archipelago is to fly to Vilankulo. At the moment there are two scheduled flights per week from Maputo and four from Johannesburg. Transfers to the islands can be done by small plane or by boat.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Range from a cool 22°C (72°F) to a warm 28°C (82°F) in summer.

VISIBILITY

Varies according to the surge and the currents.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Many tropical species of the Indian Ocean are found on these reefs. Pelagic fish frequent the open water and elusive Dugongs have been seen in the shallow channels between islands. These reefs are home to six species of marine turtles.

DEPTHS OF DIVES

The reefs closest to the islands are no deeper than 10m (33t), Cabo San Sebastian reaches 30m and more (100ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

In the event of an accident guests would be evacuated to a hospital in Nelspruit or Johannesburg in South Africa. The closest recompression chamber is at Richards Bay, also in South Africa. However, it is a one person chamber so any more would need to go to Durban.

SNORKELLING

Great snorkelling may be found around the islands and in the protected bays.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

There are dive sites to suit all qualifications. It is advisable to take malaria precautions. All hotels on Benguerra and Bazaruto Islands have fully equipped dive facilities and schools.

PONTA DO OURO

CLIMATE

Tropical, with a summer rainy season between November and April. Temperatures drop slightly during winter, May to October. Temperatures range from 15°C (60°F) in winter to over 32°C (90°F) in summer.

BEST TIME TO GO

Ponta do Ouro is a year-round destination. The resident pods of dolphins are often seen along the coast, Whale Sharks are sighted for most of the summer - September to March, and sharks, such as the Zambezis and Silvertips, are summer visitors as well.

GETTING THERE

Ponta do Ouro is situated only a few kilometres (miles) north of the South African border where there is a car park for vehicles. All operators offer a meet-and-greet system. Alternatively, people with four-wheel-drive vehicles can negotiate the network of sandy roads. Although Maputo is only 120km (75 miles) further north by ferry (if it is working) or 175km (110 miles) by land, the road is so bad that it would take a four-wheel-drive vehicle up to six hours to make the distance. The alternative way to reach Ponta is by small aircraft. There are two small airstrips on either side of the border.

WATER TEMPERATURES

This can range from a cool 22°C (72°F) in winter to a warm 28°C (82°F) in summer.

VISIBILITY

The visibility over the reefs is entirely dependent on the ocean currents. These move with the winds generated by the weather fronts along the coast of southern Africa. A southwester brings gin-clear water from the open ocean and an easterly churns the sandy floor, resulting in murky conditions and then visibility drops to 10m (33ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Typical of the tropical reefs of the Indian Ocean, with a great variety to cater for all preferences, from the larger sharks and mantas to tiny gobies, shells and small fry. The coast is frequented by Whale Sharks and dolphins.

DEPTH OF DIVES

The reefs closest to the shore are a shallow 10m (33 ft), while the deepest reef - Pinnacles - reaches a depth of more than 40m (130ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

The closest and most accessible hospital and recompression facility is at Richards Bay in South Africa, 250 km (155 miles) south of Ponta do Ouro. However, it is a one person chamber so any more would need to go to Durban.

SNORKELLING

The bay at Ponta is well protected and offers good snorkelling sites, in fact some ‘pool sessions’ for diver training are done in the bay.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

There are at least eight dive operators that launch from the beaches at Ponta do Ouro and Malongane, all well equipped to cater for the international client.

There are dive sites to suit all dive qualifications. Operators offer dive courses, equipment hire and refills including trimix. It is advisable to take malaria precautions.

SODWANA/ALIWAL SHOALS/PROTEA BANKS

CLIMATE

Subtropical with hot and humid summers. Winters are pleasantly cool.

BEST TIME TO GO

Diving is generally good throughout the year and often very good between April and June.

GETTING THERE

International flights to Johannesburg, South Africa and then local flights to Durban. It is possible to hire a car in Johannesburg and drive to Sodwana Bay.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Averages 23°C (73°F) to 25°C (77°F).

VISIBILITY

Generally good, but during summer heavy rains can decrease visibility at Aliwal Shoal.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Excellent in most areas. Sharks, whales, dolphins, turtles, as well as spectacular fish and invertebrates abound.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Both shallow and deeper dives are available in Sodwana Bay and on Aliwal Shoal.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

The closest chamber is in Richards Bay. However, it is a one person chamber so any more would need to go to Durban. There is emergency evacuation from Sodwana. From Aliwal/Protea the closest chamber is Durban.

SNORKELLING

Good snorkelling is available near Sodwana Bay at Mabibi and Adlams. However, transport to these areas is currently restricted to tour operators.

PRACTICALITIES

Malaria precautions are recommended for Sodwana Bay.

MALDIVES

CLIMATE

The Maldives is in the monsoon belt of the northern Indian Ocean, and experiences fairly complex weather patterns. There are two seasons; a northeast monsoon (called iruvai) and a wetter southwest monsoon (hulhagu). From May to November the prevailing winds are from the southwest and bring an average of 215mm (8½ in) of rainfall and 208 hours of sunshine per month. Around mid-December the winds veer to the northeast and during this season rainfall averages at 75mm (3 in), with 256 hours of sunshine per month. Days are hot and humid with temperatures of about 25-30°C (77-86°F) and humidities of 60-70%.

BEST TIME TO GO

The Maldives is dived all year round, but you do need to be aware of the seasonal differences as the weather patterns have a strong influence on the currents, and the currents have a strong influence on visibility. There is no river run-off in the Maldives, so the seasonal rainfall has little effect on visibility. The most settled time of year is the northeast monsoon season. May is the wettest month.

GETTING THERE

Most passengers arrive to the Maldives by air. Hulule International Airport on Malé Island is served by a small number of international scheduled and charter airlines.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Averages 28°C (82°F) in the northeast season and may sometimes fall one or two degrees in the southwest season. Thermoclines are rare, but do sometimes occur in the northeast season doldrums (April).

VISIBILITY

Is strongly affected by prevailing currents. In the northeast season, with winds and currents from the northeast, there will be good visibility of 30-40m (100-130ft) on the east side of the atolls and poorer visibility of 20m (65ft) on the west side. In the southwest season, with winds and currents from the southwest, there will be good visibility 30-40m (100-130ft) on the west side of the atolls and poorer visibility 20m (65ft) on the east. If surface conditions are choppy, visibility may be reduced.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Prolific marine life with over 700 common fish species and many more still to be discovered and classified. Invertebrate species are thought to be in their tens of thousands. There is no large scale commercial fishing in the Maldives, with most of the local fishing fleets using just rod and line techniques.

DEPTH OF DIVES

The best reef life is between 5m (16ft) and 25m (80ft). The Maldivian government has set a 30m (100ft) depth limit on all diving.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

A private clinic operates a chamber on Bandos Island Resort in North Malé Atoll. There is also a chamber on Kuramathi Island Resort in Northern Ari Atoll. Facilities and levels of medical care are good but expensive - so it is essential to consider your insurance cover.

SNORKELLING

The snorkelling in the Maldives is fantastic and many of the resort islands have house reefs easily accessed from the shore. Snorkellers should be aware of the currents and discuss the local conditions with the staff at the dive centre before setting off.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

The Maldives is a great place to learn to dive; the shallow turquoise lagoons offer the ideal environment. Ear infections are common in divers and snorkellers, but it can be prevented by washing out your ears with fresh water after each dive and then using a drying agent.

Currents in the Maldives can sometimes be strong and it is a good idea to have some type of surface marker device such as a flag or delayed SMB with you when diving. Standard scuba equipment can be hired from all dive centres, although some do not have wet suits. Some of the resorts and the better live-aboards now offer Nitrox.

PHUKET/MERGUI/ANDAMANS

CLIMATE

South west monsoon blows between May and October. This season experiences strong winds and rain coming from the southwest rendering the majority of sites in the Andaman sea inaccessible; even if the sites could be reached divers would almost certainly be welcomed by strong currents and limited visibility. The opposite applies during the northeast monsoon which blows between November and April. Which is the really the diving season.

WATER TEMPERATURES

The waters range between 27°C and 31°C (80°F and 88°F). Generally, exposure protection is not required while diving the offshore sites; however a number of divers do wear thin lycra suits as a barrier against stinging cells. Many divers don 3mm wet suits when diving sites far from land on live-aboard excursions, because these sites can be susceptible to sudden cold currents or thermoclines, some dramatically chilling the water by a breathtaking 10°C (50°F).

VISIBILITY

During the preferred season visibility in the Andaman sea can range from 5m (16ft) to above 30m (100ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

The region boasts an enormous diversity of marine life. The corals are spectacular with an abundance of both stony and soft corals complementing the blue waters with radiant colours and breathtaking formations inviting prolific schools of fish to seek nutrition and shelter among their branches. Graceful majestic giants such as the Manta Ray and Whale Sharks are often sighted alongside other open ocean fish; barracuda, tuna, trevally and mackerel are all frequent visitors. There’s also plenty of stony coral reefs with reef inhabitants of all sizes ranging from minute invertebrates to Giant Moray Eels.

DEPTH OF DIVES

The depths of dives range from 5m (16ft) down to 1000m (3000ft) drop offs in places such as Barren Island in the Andaman Islands. The average, however, is 20-40m (65-130ft).

SNORKELLING

There’s a widespread selection of snorkelling sites, mostly over stony coral gardens, only a few of which are accessed from the beaches. So boat trips are in order.

PHUKET

BEST TIME TO GO

Best time is during the dry season, which falls between October and May, when the area experiences hot, sunny conditions and the seas are generally calm and water temperature ranges between 27° and 31°C (80° and 88°F).

GETTING THERE

Phuket International Airport can be reached directly from a number of destinations in the region. For those travelling from further afield, 14 domestic flights depart from Bangkok airport bound for Phuket daily. The flight time is 75 minutes. On arrival on Phuket it will be necessary to transfer by taxi or local air-conditioned minibus directly to the particular live-aboard operator.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Between October and May water temperature ranges between 27° and 31°C (80° and 88°F).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

The nearest recompression chamber is on the island of Koh Phuket.

PRACTICALITIES

International and domestic transport networks are good, with regular schedules of road, rail and air services. Dive operators centre around the PADI training agency, ranging from one-man concerns up to five-star facilities. Dive trips and education are obtainable on arrival, but pre-booking is recommended. Retail of new equipment and spare parts covers many of the top brands.

MERGUI

BEST TIME TO GO

The dry season between October and May is hot and sunny, the seas are generally calm, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F).

GETTING THERE

All trips depart from the port of Kaw Thaung on Victoria Point, which can be reached from the town of Ranong on the western coast of Thailand. Ranong can be reached by air directly from Bangkok or by road from Phuket Island. Phuket International Airport can be reached directly from a number of destinations in the region. For those already in Thailand, 14 domestic flights depart Bangkok domestic airport daily. The flight time is 75 minutes. At Phuket it will be necessary to transfer by taxi or local air-conditioned minibus to one of the operators. The easiest way is to make prior arrangements to be collected at the airport by your dive operator.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Between October and May the seas are generally calm, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

Nearest recompression chamber is in Phuket.

PRACTICALITIES

Entry considerations vary from season to season, the best is to contact your dive operator before departure.

ANDAMANS

BEST TIME TO GO

Between early January and May the surrounding seas are usually calm, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F). The skies are clear with plenty of sunshine.

GETTING THERE

There are two ways of accessing these islands, which are owned by India. Live-aboard excursions depart directly from and return to Phuket Island in southern Thailand. Crossings average out at around the 40-hour mark. Alternatively, the islands can be reached indirectly by air via Calcutta or Madras; with a flight time of around two hours from either city.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

The nearest recompression chambers are on Phuket Island, Thailand.

PRACTICALITIES

A visa is required in order to enter India - these are issued by Indian Embassies. A separate visa is required to enter the Andaman Islands - these are automatically issued on arrival at Port Blair. For additional information consult your local Indian Embassy.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

CLIMATE

The northern regions down to Ningaloo Reef are tropical with average land temperatures varying from about 26°C (80°F) to 32°C (90°F).

During summer, some land temperatures can reach over 38°C (100°F). The far south is temperate and averages around 20°C (68°F).

BEST TIME TO GO

Cocos and Christmas Islands: all year. Scott Reef, Seringapatam, Rowley Shoals: from August to November. Ningaloo Reef: from April to November. Rottnest Island: from October to June. Geographe Bay and HMAS Swan: from November to June. Albany and Esperance: from November to June.

GETTING THERE

Cocos and Christmas Islands: International flights from Jakarta and domestic flights from Perth. Scott Reef, Seringapatam and Rowley Shoals: domestic flights from Perth to Broome and then live-aboard from Broome. All other sites: by road or flights from Perth.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Cocos, Christmas Islands, Seringapatam and Scott Reef: average 28°C (82°F). Rowley Shoals, Ningaloo: 26°C (80°F). Rottnest Island and Geographe Bay: 20°C (68°F). Albany and Esperance: 18°C (65°F).

VISIBILITY

Average around 20m (65ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Good, with many pristine coral reefs and temperate water invertebrates.

DEPTH OF DIVES

From the surface to depths beyond the accepted limits of sport or recreational technical diving. From the surface to 25m (80ft) is enough to see most things of interest.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

Fremantle, Perth.

SNORKELLING

Everywhere.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

There are dive facilities everywhere. Western Australian Tourism Commission telephone: (+61-1300)361 351.

MALAYSIA

CLIMATE

Tropical, warm and humid year round. Temperatures rarely drop below 20°C (68°F), except on high ground, and are usually around 26°C-30°C (80°F-86°F) during the day.

Although monsoon winds affect the climate, strong winds are rare. Typhoons miss the country by several hundred kilometres, so that Borneo is referred to as The Land Below the Wind. Only the north of Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast and Layang Layang close down tourism during their monsoon periods.

BEST TIME TO GO

Each area has two main seasons, the drier season and the so-called monsoon season, which in Malaysia is more accurately called the wetter season.

In Peninsular Malaysia, the west coast’s drier season is November to March, and wetter season is April to October. The east coast’s wetter season is November to March and drier season from April to October. Sabah’s west coast is wettest from June to December, and driest from January to May. Layang-Layang can have bad weather at any time, but has its best weather from April to September. The islands around Pulau Sipadan can be dived all year, but the weather is calmest and driest from May to October. August is the high season for local holidays and turtle nesting.

GETTING THERE

To reach Peninsular Malaysia, fly to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, from where domestic flights connect with Pulau Tioman (direct) or the nearest town for onward land and ferry travel to other islands.

To reach East Malaysia - fly to Kota Kinabalu International Airport, from where special flights are available to Layang-Layang. Domestic flights connect to Tawau for Pulau Sipadan and other islands off Semporna. From Tawau you can either take a helicopter or continue by road to Semporna, followed by a speedboat ride to the islands. For Lankayan take a domestic flight to Sandakan then carry on by speedboat. Labuan can be reached by ferry from Kota Kinabalu as well as by air.

WATER TEMPERATURES

25°C (77°F) over deep water in the cooler season, to 31°C (88°F) in the warmer season, and 30°C (86°F) is common in shallow water.

VISIBILITY

In good conditions the visibility at Layang-Layang and Sipadan approaches the mythical 60m (200ft) and rarely drops below 30m (100ft). At Labuan, Pulau Perhentian, Pulau Lang Tengah and Pulau Tioman visibility varies from 3m (10ft) to 30m (100ft). At Pulau Aur, Pulau Redang and Pulau Tenggol visibility of more than 30m (100ft) is common.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Diverse and prolific, marine life is often tame and inquisitive. Large pelagics can be encountered even inshore.

DEPTH OF DIVES

The reefs at Layang-Layang and Pulau Sipadan descend to depths greater than sport divers should go, so act responsibly.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

There are chambers in peninsular Malaysia at Lumut Naval Base, Lumut, Perak, the Centre for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine Ipoh, Perak and Kuantan Naval Base, Kuantan and Pahang. In east Malaysia there is one at Labuan. In Singapore go to the Naval Medicine and Hyperbaric Centre or Tan Tock Seng Hospital.

SNORKELLING

Good snorkelling from the shore or in shallow water over coral reefs for all abilities.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Apart from Layang-Layang and Sipadan’s Turtle Cavern, Malaysian diving is relaxed and suitable for all standards of divers. Layang-Layang can have strong currents. Carry a high-visibility late-deployment surface marker buoy, rescue tube or flag for attracting the attention of your boat cover.

All operators offer diving courses and have equipment for hire.

INDONESIA

CLIMATE

Two distinct seasons - the wet from November to March and dry from April to October. The month of July and August can be pretty windy. Average year-round temperature is between 27°C (80°F) and 31°C (90°F).

BEST TIME TO GO

April to June and October.

WATER TEMPERATURE & VISIBILITY

The waters of the Bunaken/Manado Tua Marine Park are mostly calm, providing ideal conditions for holiday divers and beginners, enabling even snorkellers to enjoy visibility of 12-30m (40-100ft). Diving conditions are exceptional, with visibility in the 15-30m (50-100ft) range, and water temperatures generally around 26-27°C (78-80°F).

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

The average diver might be quite comfortable in a bathing suit, but a lycra or thin neoprene suit is advisable, not least for protection from the many stinging hydroids. Night dives and multiple dives per day can leave you chilled even in warm water, so a 3mm wet suit is worth bringing.

PHILIPPINES

CLIMATE

Tropical, 23-36°C (73-97°F) with pronounced seasons. The dry season is from November to February and the wet season from June to October, when typhoons can occur in the northern half of the country.

BEST TIME TO GO

Year-round for most areas, except in the far north. April and May are reliably calm throughout the archipelago, December to June is the peak season. The Tubbataha reefs are only comfortably dived from March to the end of June.

GETTING THERE

Fly to either Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila), or Mactan International Airport (Cebu), then onward domestic flights to all major destinations, including Puerto Princesa, where you board live-aboard boats for the Tubbataha Reefs. Many destinations now have good ferry services.

WATER TEMPERATURES

25°C (77°F) in the cooler season to 31°C (88°F).

VISIBILITY

Generally excellent, more than 40m (130ft) on a flood tide.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Diverse and prolific. Large pelagics are regularly encountered on offshore reefs.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Many open-water reefs descend to depths greater than sport or recreational technical divers should dive, so act responsibly.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

Recompression Chambers are available in the Freeport Zone at Subic Bay, the AFP Medical Center in Manila and the VISCOM Station Hospital in Cebu. Evacuation Assistance can be obtained from AFP Search & Rescue Facilities in Metro Manila.

SNORKELLING

Good snorkelling from the shore or in shallow water over coral reefs from Bancas or live-aboard tenders.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

In any open water area, Philippines diving can experience strong currents, especially at times of spring tides. For the Tubbataha Reefs, novices should be accompanied by experienced divers. Carry a high-visibility delayed deployment surface marker buoy or flag, a power whistle and an old CD for use as a heliograph, to attract the attention of your boat cover.

All land-based operators offer diving courses in several languages, and also have equipment for hire. Live-aboard boats, however, do not normally offer courses and only have a small selection of rental equipment, so come prepared.

MICRONESIA

CLIMATE

Tropical, with little seasonal variation. Temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Dry season is from January to May. Typhoon season is from August to December.

BEST TIME TO GO

August to November is the time to avoid Micronesia; most of the islands lie within the Pacific’s typhoon belt, often bringing storms, cyclones and majestic swells.

GETTING THERE

By air from Guam, Palau or Manila.

WATER TEMPERATURES

28°C-30°C (82°F-86°F).

VISIBILITY

At Truk Lagoon it is from 12m (40ft) at low tide to over 30m (100ft) at high, depending on tides and location within the lagoon. Can be more than 30m (100ft) at Yap and Palau.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Schooling fish and invertebrate life. Soft and stony corals drape the wrecks.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Truk lagoon: most diving is at 12-24m (40-80ft). Some deeper wrecks are at 30-46m (100-150ft). Yap depths are around 15m (50ft) and Palau from 30m (100ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

The nearest fully operational chamber is in Guam. There is a chamber in Truk, but it is usually not operational. There are plans to get it working again.

SNORKELLING

Snorkelling is possible on a number of Truk’s wrecks, although most require scuba. Good snorkelling on the reefs at Palau.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Conditions are normally calm at Truk Lagoon, with diving at all levels. Deep wrecks and penetration of wrecks should only be attempted by experienced divers accompanied by a local guide. Visibility in the Yap channels is best toward the end of a flood tide. At Palau, conditions depend on the strength of the current, and whether divers use reef hooks.

MELANESIA

CLIMATE

Melanesia covers a large area so there is some variation of climate among the different island groups. Overall the climate is tropical with daytime temperatures ranging between 25°C (77°F) and 32°C (90°F) falling 2-3 degrees at night. Daytime temperatures are rarely extreme due to the cooling winds blowing off the sea.

BEST TIME TO GO

April to October are generally the best months to visit the islands of Melanesia. January to March are the most humid months, with November to March being the monsoon, or wet, season with cyclones forming in the coral sea and steering towards Vanuatu and New Caledonia.

GETTING THERE

International airports at Suva-Fiji, Honiara-Solomon Islands and Port Vila-Vanuatu, receive flights from most major airlines via Australia and New Zealand. Domestic flights to outer islands are available in each country. Live-aboard dive vessels are a great way to visit otherwise inaccessible areas.

WATER TEMPERATURES

The warm tropical waters have an average temperature of 27°C (80°F), although there are variations according to currents and time of year.

VISIBILITY

Can be as good as 50m (165ft) or in rare instances as little as a few metres. Generally expect 25-30m (80-100ft). Best visibility is generally found around offshore dive sites.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE.

Overall the marine life around Melanesia is exciting, colourful, exotic and holds the real possibility of discovering new and unnamed species.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Shallow diving on reef tops to depths far beyond recommended sport diving depths. Best coral colours are in the shallows. Many wrecks lie in deeper waters.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

Best to avoid needing this facility, but there are small chambers in Suva-Fiji and Port Vila-Vanuatu.

SNORKELLING

Snorkelling is available nearly everywhere with good coral and fish life on most shallow reefs. Lycra suits are recommended to guard against coral cuts and stings as well as protection against sunburn.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Lycra suit or thin wet suits are recommended. Ear infections from the tropical warm waters are common. Use of an ear-drying agent is advisable. Malaria medication is strongly recommended for travellers to the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. Gastro-intestinal problems can be a problem. Bottled water is recommended. Take a comprehensive first-aid kit and any personal prescriptions.

Visitor permits for stays of up to 30 days are issued on arrival, provided visitors have valid passports and onward or return tickets.

Most operators will want to see valid scuba certification or log books as proof of experience.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

CLIMATE

Coastal climate varies considerably around PNG, but the wet season is typically January to March, and the southeast trade winds blow from May until November. Diving is possible year round as most of the best dive sites are sheltered and close to shore. Cyclones are very rare since PNG is too close to the equator.

BEST TIME TO GO

Diving is year-round with the calmest and warmest months being November to May and the clearest water from June to November. The wet season is from January through March, when it can be squally, except in Milne Bay, which is wettest in August and September. However, weather patterns are very variable from year to year and difficult to predict. Excellent diving can be had throughout the year in most areas.

Cyclones rarely affect the diving areas in Papua New Guinea, which is mostly outside the cyclone belt. However, sites bordering the Coral Sea may be rough if a cyclone is active further south.

GETTING THERE

Air Niugini flies direct to Port Moresby from Singapore, Manila and Australia. There are daily flights from Port Moresby to main centres round the country.

Note that Air Niugini has a special 20kg (44 lb) extra baggage allowance - total 40kg (88 lb) for international passengers - that may be claimed for dive gear. This should be checked when purchasing tickets, and claimed at check in.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Range from average highs of 29°C (84°F) around December and January to average lows of 25°C (77°F) during July and August in the south of Papua New Guinea and rising to 30°C (86°F) and 27°C (80°F) respectively in northern waters.

VISIBILITY

Visibility is usually better than 30m (100ft) on most of the popular dive sites. It can be affected by local rainfall, but this is very temporary. Some of the famous beach muck diving sites may have less visibility, but other sites regularly have visibility in excess of 50m (165ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

PNG marine life is extraordinary both for biodiversity and abundance. The quality of the reefs is superb and the author’s survey in 2002/3 showed them to be as good or better than they have ever been.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Deep dives are possible in PNG since deep water comes very close to shore. However, most dives are conducted in water less than 30m (100ft) deep on reefs which slope to shallow water less than 10m (33ft) deep.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

In Port Moresby.

SNORKELLING

There is excellent snorkelling on the sheltered fringing reefs along shore or around the many small islands throughout the country.

PRACTICALITIES

60-day tourist visas are available for K25 on arrival for passengers with valid passports and return or onward tickets. Visas for longer stays should be obtained before departure. Departure tax is included in ticket price, but there is now an Airport Services Tax at Port Moresby of K30 to be paid before departure.

Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for short-term visitors. Check with your doctor, generally Doxycycline is recommended, Larium is NOT. Try to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes at night by wearing appropriate clothing and using insect repellent. Use alcohol-based ear drops every diving day to avoid ear infections, and scrub out coral cuts and apply an antibiotic ointment. DAN or other dive insurance is vital.

Fantastic people, art, culture and landscapes, superb diving. Avoid wandering around cities alone or at night, inappropriate clothing or ostentatious behaviour.

GREAT BARRIER REEF

BEST TIME TO GO

For the clearest water and to swim with Minke Whales you should go in July to September. Otherwise from March to early December.

GETTING THERE

Cairns is the international gateway serviced by 10 international airlines, including Qantas, Malaysian Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Continental.

TRAVEL PRACTICALITIES

What to take with you on a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef: towel, swim suit, hat and sunscreen, sunglasses, casual shoes for walking on islands or hot decks, credit card and cash for purchasing souvenirs and snacks, camera and plenty of film, a change of clothes.

When booking your trip remember to check what is included. Dress lightly and comfortably. It is a good idea to leave passports and other valuables in the hotel safe. All visitors to the reef are charged a small fee for reef tax. This charge goes towards managing and preserving the Great Barrier Reef. If you are prone to seasickness take some medication prior to boarding the vessel. If you are not sure if you get seasick take some medication anyway. If you do get seasick don’t worry, once you arrive at the reef it is calm and your motion sickness will generally go away. The best way to avoid seasickness is to have a good breakfast, stay in the fresh air, look at the horizon and keep your mind busy. Swimming also helps seasickness to disappear quickly.

NEW ZEALAND

POOR KNIGHTS

CLIMATE

Cool, wet and windy in winter (June to October). Often very dry from January to March.

BEST TIME TO GO

Year-round, but the water is warmer from December to May. In spring (August to November) the water is cool, but the ocean life is rewarding - for example you will see paper nautilus and giant salp.

GETTING THERE

There are flights from Europe to Auckland. Take a rental car to Tutukaka, or fly to Whangarei. Most charters arrange transport from the local airport. Dive boats make the 28km (17-mile) crossing in approximately one hour.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Between 14°C (57°F) and 23°C (73°F). It is warmest from January to May.

VISIBILITY

20-50m (60-165ft). Varies depending on plankton blooms (more intense and frequent in spring). Best from January to July.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Extremely diverse - many invertebrates, especially nudibranchs. Calm conditions on vertical walls make encrusting life very accessible. Reef fish are abundant, large and friendly. Divers can see Eagle Rays and stingrays, moray eels and dolphins.

DEPTH OF DIVES

10-50m (33-165ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

The nearest recompression chamber is at Devonport, Auckland, for Poor Knights and Goat Island, at Christchurch for Fiordland.

SNORKELLING

Superb. Snorkellers can work in pairs. Ride-on kayaks supplied by some charter boats.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Dive certification required. Equipment hire in Tutukaka. Dive guides on most charter boats.

FIORDLAND

CLIMATE

Four seasons in one day throughout the year.

Winter is June to September, when there is not as much wind, the days are short and there is less rain. Wonderful diving with ice diving possible in smaller fiords during severe winter conditions.

Summer is from November through February, when there is more rain and wind, and long daylight hours.

BEST TIME TO GO

Year round is good, but the water is warmer in summer by 2 to 4 degrees. For night dives winter is better.

GETTING THERE

There are flights from Europe to Auckland and connecting flights to either Queens town or Invercargill. There is daily bus transport from both airports to Manapouri or Te Anau. Rental vehicles are also available. Bigger groups can charter minibuses. From Te Anau or Manapouri a charter operator will organise transport to either Milford or Doubtful Sound where vessels are moored. The sailing time is about two to three hours.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Between 10°C (50°F) and 15°C (60°F) and is warmest from January to March. The water temperatures also vary due to rain: a freshwater layer is colder than salt.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Marine life is extremely diverse, with many invertebrates, especially Black Coral trees. Calm conditions on vertical walls make encrusting life very accessible.

Bottlenose Dolphins can be seen all year, mainly in Doubtful and Dusky Sounds, sometimes Milford.

Penguins: Little Blues can be seen all year; Fiordland Crested can be seen from July to December.

There are seals in most fiords. Not advisable to dive with seals from December to January.

Special: sea pens, deepwater species can be seen at divable depths.

DEPTH OF DIVES

10-50m (33-165ft).

SNORKELLING

Superb.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Dive certification is required. Equipment can be hired at Te Anau, Dunedin or Invercargill. There is only one dive boat that has all hire gear aboard. Dive guides on only two charter boats. Passenger submarine rides are possible in Milford to 182m (600ft).

GOAT ISLAND MARINE RESERVE, LEIGH

CLIMATE

Cool, wet and windy in winter (from June to October). Often dry from January to March.

BEST TIME TO GO

Year-round, but water is warmer from December to May.

GETTING THERE

There are flights from Europe to Auckland. Rental car north to Leigh in 90 minutes.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Between 14°C (57°F) and 22°C (72°F). Warmest from January to May.

VISIBILITY

5-15m (16-50ft). Varies depending on plankton blooms (more intense and frequent in spring). Best from February to June.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Extremely diverse; many invertebrates, especially nudibranchs. Reef fish are abundant, large and tame. Dolphins and Orcas are transients.

DEPTH OF DIVES

3-10m (10-33ft).

SNORKELLING

Superb. Dive from beach. Glass-bottom boat trips are available.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Equipment hire in Auckland or Leigh.

CATALINA ISLAND

CLIMATE

Hot in the summer months, but can be windy from the west.

BEST TIME TO GO

February to October is best - when the kelp is on its growing cycle. Diving is usually sheltered on Catalina against any offshore storms in the Pacific.

GETTING THERE

Flights to Los Angeles are available through all major air carriers. It only takes about one hour to transfer to the Catalina Express ferry terminal on Long Beach. Taxis are best.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Around 20°C (68°F) is average, thick wet suits or dry suits are recommended.

VISIBILITY

Usually 15-30m (50-100ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Superb kelp forest and sea lion activity.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Average 15m (50ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

In Long Beach and San Diego.

SNORKELLING

Very good in kelp forest shallows.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Cold water, so full 7mm wet suits required or dry suits.

MEXICO BAJA CALIFORNIA

CLIMATE

Can be windy from the north, but average is around 25°C (77°F).

BEST TIME TO GO

During November to February the young seal pups are at their most playful and inquisitive and, while the water is colder, it is certainly clearer. With the calmer seas of March and April, the visibility drops around the islands and seamounts, yet this is the best time for sightings of mantas, Whale Sharks and whales.

GETTING THERE

There are direct flights into La Paz from most of the large hub airports, particularly from Mexico City and Los Angeles.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Cool at 18-21°C (65°-70F).

VISIBILITY

The seal pups are born around June and this coincides with the time of best visibility at the end of the plankton bloom. Around the seamounts visibility usually extends to over 50m (165ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Superb for sightings of large pelagics such as whales and Manta Rays, but also for sea lion encounters.

DEPTH OF DIVES

All depths available on the seamounts, but shallow dives average 15m (50ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

In La Paz.

SNORKELLING

Superb for sea lions at Los Islotes.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

All levels catered for.

GOLDEN TRIANGLE

CLIMATE

Galápagos is subtropical with two seasons; the changeover between the seasons is variable. The dry, or Garua, season runs from July to December. ‘Garua’ refers to the fog and mist that often hangs on the higher elevations at this time; air temperatures average 26°C (80°F). The warmer or wet season, when air temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F), lasts from January through June, with March and April generally being the wettest months.

Cocos and Malpelo are tropical with high rainfall and two seasons. The average rainfall is 2540mm (100 in) at Cocos Island and 1060mm (42 in) at Malpelo. At sea level, land temperatures can reach 32°C (89°F) on the Pacific coast, but the temperatures will be lower at sea. The dry season provides calmer seas for the long boat journey out to the islands and there are more Silky Sharks and Mobula Rays. There are some Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks, but not the large numbers encountered during the rainy season. In the rainy season the long boat journey out to the island could be rough.

BEST TIME TO GO

Galápagos: Calmest waters are between December and March/April but it is also wetter. The clearest water is from October till November.

Cocos and Malpelo: November till May for the dry season, June till November for the wet season, July/August for the largest number of Hammerhead Sharks.

GETTING THERE

Galápagos: the boats depart from San Cristobal or Baltra Island, connecting flights are via Quito or Guayaquil.

Cocos and Malpelo: fly to San José, then for Cocos Island transfer by road to Puntarenus to pick up the live-aboard boat. For Malpelo Island fly to Golfito to pick up the live-aboard boat. One live-aboard boat covers both Cocos and Malpelo Islands in one charter.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Galápagos: Warmest from January to May at 22°-28°C (72°-82°F) and coolest from July to November at 16°-22°C (61°-72°-F).

Cocos and Malpelo: 25°-28°C (78°-82°F) at the surface. Below the thermoclines it can drop to 15°C (60°F).

VISIBILITY

9-24m (30-80ft) in the wet season; 20-30m (65-100ft) in the dry season. Variable visibility is possible on the same dive due to strong currents and where currents mix.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

The larger animals are prolific, there is little coral at Cocos or Malpelo so the fish are the major attraction.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Galápagos: 5-24m (15-80ft); Cocos Island: 18-40m (60-130ft); Malpelo: the surface to 40m (surface to 130ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBER

There are no facilities for recompression, so dive sensibly. For the Galápagos, the nearest chamber is located at the San Eduardo Naval Base in Guayaquil and the Ecuadorian Navy charges a fee for its use. For Cocos and Malpelo the nearest chamber is in Panama City.

SNORKELLING

Galápagos: Possibilities are endless. Penguins, marine iguanas, colourful fish, marine turtles, rays, and sharks are just part of the underwater life you will see while snorkelling.

Cocos and Malpelo: Take care near bait-balls.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Best suited to advanced or strong divers. Carry a high visibility delayed deployment surface marker buoy or flag, a power horn or whistle and an old CD for use as a heliograph, to attract the attention of your boat cover. Ear infections are common, so use a suitable ear-drying agent to avoid them. Take warm clothes for use on the boat and non-photographers will find gloves useful for holding on to the rocks in the current and surge. All divers are advised to have a good supply of motion-sickness remedies for the long boat journey out to Cocos and Malpelo, even if they do not normally get seasick.

At all destinations, most walking ashore is over rocky lava terrain.

MEXICO

CLIMATE

Best time is November through June to avoid hurricane season.

BEST TIME TO GO

April to August and December through February are the best months outside the hurricane season.

GETTING THERE

Cancún is serviced directly by all of the major airline carriers from all over the world. Fly direct to Cancún and transfer to Cozumel for Caribbean diving, or fly direct to Cozumel via Miami and Houston.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Rarely drops below 27°C (80°F). Wet suits or full lycra suits are suitable, but you will get chilled after the dive, so warm clothing should be available in the winter months.

VISIBILITY

This shallow bay tends to have an average visibility of around 12-25m (40-80ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Superb sponges at Cozumel and large schools of fish off northern Cancún.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Isla Mujeres Bay is 15m (50ft) maximum and Cozumel is all drift diving off the wall in depths reaching beyond safe diving limits.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

On Cozumel.

SNORKELLING

Excellent off the shallow reefs at Chankanaab Marine Park and Xcaret in the Yucatán.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Novice divers are more suited to Isla Mujeres Bay and experienced divers for Cozumel due to strong currents.

BELIZE

CLIMATE

With an average temperature of 26°C (80°F) throughout the year and rarely rising above 32°C (90°F), the climate is sub-tropical. November through May are the driest months with the wind predominantly from the east.

BEST TIME TO GO

Best time is November through June to avoid hurricane season, but it can be hot.

GETTING THERE

Continental, Taca and American Airlines all fly regularly from the major US hub airports, such as Houston, Los Angeles and Miami, as well as flights from South America, San Pedro Sula on mainland Honduras and Puerto Rico. Some of the internal flights are on small 16-seaters and there may be a problem with weight allowance, so always pack minimally.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Water temperatures average 26°C (80°F)

VISIBILITY

Generally between 30m (100ft) and 50m (165ft). Most diving is done offshore well away from any rainwater run-off which may spoil the visibility.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Very good on the outer reefs.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Varied to suit all levels of dive experience, but very deep in the Blue holes to see stalactites.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBER

The closest recompression chamber is in Belize City with emergency helicopter service from the outer atolls. Telephone 90 for assistance. In Honduras, the recompression chamber is situated on Roatan and is run by St Luke’s Mission. Visiting divers are requested to pay a Dollar a day towards the upkeep of the chamber. Telephone and fax (504) 45-15-15 (DAN) Divers’ Alert Network Telephone (919) 648-8111.

SNORKELLING

Good on the shallow reefs within the protected lagoon areas.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

All levels of diver catered for.

TRAVEL TIPS

Belize City, although not on the ideal tourist map is your starting point to explore many of the ancient Maya ruins which are dotted about the country. The most visually impressive is Lamanai on the shores of the new River lagoon. The closest ruins to Belize City are Altun-Ha at only 62km (38 miles). A large number of nature parks have been created and one or more should be included in any field trip, including the Rio Bravo Conservation area which is the largest in Belize at 100,000 hectares (250,000 acres).

The Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences is located at the Anthony’s Key Resort and has a maritime museum and daily dolphin shows (if you like that kind of thing).

Visit the Roatan nature parks with its waterfalls and jungle trails, which can be hot and sticky, but you are able to cool off in the waterfall pools.

CUBA

CLIMATE

Semitropical with two seasons, up to 26°C (80°F) from December to March, rising to 32°C (90°F) in July and August. Humidity and rainfall are highest in September and October. Hurricanes are rare, but possible, between August and November.

BEST TIME TO GO

Diving is possible all year round, though slightly rougher seas are encountered in winter. The Pirate Coast is protected and can be dived even in heavy rain. February to May are among the best months, the wet season is May to October.

GETTING THERE

Direct flights to José Martí International Airport in Havana are available from Europe, Canada, Mexico and nearby South American gateways. Restricted flights operate from Miami (USA). The only scheduled carrier now flying non-stop from London is Air Jamaica. Flights will arrive at the new state-of-the-art International Terminal. Charter flights are often available direct to the larger resort areas from Europe.

A 25-minute flight by turbojet connects Havana’s run-down old Domestic Terminal to Rafael Cabrera Mustelier Airport, Nueva Gerona from where it is 40km (25 miles) by road to the El Colony Hotel Diving Complex.

See page 240 for details on American citizens going to Cuba.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Temperatures average 28°C (82°F) in summer, 24°C (75°F) in winter.

VISIBILITY

Generally very clear - more than 30m (100ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Diverse and prolific, tame and approachable.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Usually shallow, generally less than 30m (100ft), but there are some sites that require short decompression and others that descend deeper than sports divers should go, so act responsibly.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

Havana

La Habana Hyperbaric Medical Center

Hospital Naval ‘Dr Luis Diaz Soto’

Havana del Este,

Telephone 7 973266.

Gerona

Hospital General Docente,

Heroes del Baire

Avenue 39 Nueva Gerona

Isla de la Juventad

Telephone 61 23012

Cárdenas (Near Varadero)

Hospital ‘Julio Arietegui’

Centro de Medicina Subacuatica

Carretera de Cardenas, Km 2

Cárdenas

Matanzas

Telephone 5 22114

Santiago de Cuba

Hospital Militar ‘Castillo Duany’

Punta Blanca

Santiago de Cuba

Telephone 2 6471

Isla de la Juventud

Hotel El Colony

Carretera de la Siguanea, Km 41

Colony

Isla de la Juventud

Telephone 9 8240

SNORKELLING

With so much shore diving this is a paradise for snorkellers of all standards but the best snorkelling is at the diving sites that are only reached by boat.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Cuban diving is mostly relaxed, suitable for all standards of divers except on deeper dives. All operations offer extensive facilities, diving courses and have equipment for hire.

TRAVEL PRACTICALITIES

Most electricity sockets are American style, two flat prong 110 volt/60 cycles. However, some of the newer hotels operate on 220 volts/50 cycles and some hotels have both voltages, so always check with the management before plugging in any electrical equipment.

CAYMAN ISLANDS

CLIMATE

The Cayman Islands are fortunate in having fine weather all year round due entirely to their physical location away from any major land mass and the influence from the sea around them. The summer air temperature averages between 27°C and 32°C (80°F and 90°F) and only drops to the low 20s°C (low 70s°F) during the short winter, can get very stormy in September and October in hurricane season.

BEST TIME TO GO

The Cayman dive operators boast that you can dive every day of the year and, because of the size of the islands, you will always find a lee shore - even during the worst weather - and you will always be able to dive safely. In reality, from May to September are perhaps the best for diving.

GETTING THERE

Eleven scheduled air carriers fly into Grand Cayman. The Islands’ national airline is Cayman Airways and, depending on the time of year, it flies three or four times each day from Miami. Other US services connect to most hub airports and other Caribbean islands. For European travellers, British Airways, operated by Caledonian, offer a direct flight to Grand Cayman from London Heathrow and internally, Cayman Airways and Island Air connect daily to Little Cayman Island and Cayman Brac.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Average 27°C (80°F) throughout the year.

VISIBILITY

Average more than 30m (100ft) all year.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Very good, particularly on night dives for the large variety of invertebrates and, of course, the stingrays!

DEPTH OF DIVES

First dive 30m (100ft), and 18m (60ft) on the second dive of the day.

SNORKELLING

Very good off all shore locations as reef starts directly at the shoreline.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

Cayman Hyperbaric Services

George Town Hospital

PO Box 1675GT

Grand Cayman and Faith Hospital

Cayman Brac

These are small chambers; serious cases are transferred to Miami.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

All levels of diver catered for and strong conservation policies are practiced.

PUERTO RICO

CLIMATE

Temperatures average 23ºC (73ºF) in the winter and 29ºC (84ºF) in the summer. The trade winds cool the coastal towns and the temperature decreases as you climb higher into the mountains. Rainfall doubles from May to October while the north coast gets twice as much rain as the south coast. Hurricanes frequently occur between August and October but Puerto Rico is not usually as badly hit as Jamaica, Cuba and the Lesser Antilles.

BEST TIME TO GO

Except for avoiding the hurricane season, there is no ‘best time’ to go. The peak tourist season is between December and April, but this has more to do with the climate on the US mainland than anything else. The time to avoid the crowds is the low season between May and November, but this is hurricane season.

GETTING THERE

There are direct flights from most gateways in American and Europe to the Caribbean hub at San Juan. Depending on the final destination, there are flights to another more local Puerto Rican airport or connecting flights.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Averages 25-27ºC (77-80ºF).

VISIBILITY

18-24m (60-80ft) around the mainland but better around the offshore islands.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Diverse, prolific and tame.

DEPTH OF DIVES

From shallow to depths beyond which recreational divers should go.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

Puerto Rico Medical Center

Puerto Rico Medical Services Administration

PO Box 2129

San Juan

24 Hour Phone +787 390 3243

Hyperbaric Medicine

#133 Dr. Gonzalez Street

Isabela

PO Box 00662

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Electricity supply is 110 volts, 60 cycles as in the US.

DOMINICA

CLIMATE

The Commonwealth of Dominica experiences some of the wettest weather in the Caribbean, creating a humid and tropical climate almost year-round. During the day, the island’s temperature averages around 28ºC (82ºF). The wettest months are July to October, which are also the worst months of the hurricane season.

BEST TIME TO GO

The least rain is from January to May when the showers are shorter.

GETTING THERE

The island has two airports that receive connecting flights form other Caribbean destinations. The primary airport, Melville Hall Airport (DOM), is on the northeast coast and is about a 45-minute drive from Portsmouth. The second airport is Canefield Airport (DCF), about 15 minutes from Roseau on the southwest coast. The landing strips at both airports are short and must be accessed by smaller STOL aircraft from Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia, St Maarten, Guadeloupe, Martinique or Puerto Rico. Ferries connect Dominica with Guadeloupe and Martinique.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Average of 27ºC (80ºF).

VISIBILITY

Average visibility of 24m (80ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Diverse and prolific, as good as other destinations in the Caribbean.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Most dives are less than 30m (100ft) but some sites are deeper than sports divers should go.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

There is now a recompression chamber at the main Princess Margaret Hospital in Roseau.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Other than those off the south of the island, all dives are suitable for the average diver.

PRACTICALITIES

The electricity supply is 220/240 volts, 50 cycles.

DUTCH ANTILLES

CLIMATE

There is sunshine on most days, except during the months of December to February. The constant trade winds produce an arid desert climate for the rest of the year with the hottest months being August to October. The lowest temperatures are around 24°C (75°F). The hottest days rarely go above 32°C (90°F) and the average is 28°C (82°F) with a cooling breeze.

BEST TIME TO GO

The protected west coasts of the ABCs allow diving all year round. The rather more exposed sites are best dived in the summer and autumn.

GETTING THERE

KLM Dutch Airways flies direct from Amsterdam with connections all over Europe. There are charter flights to Aruba available from London, Gatwick. American Airlines have connections from several North and Latin American gateways to both Aruba and Curaçao with further connections between Aruba and Bonaire. Local airlines connect between Curaçao and Bonaire. American Eagle now has a connection between Puerto Rico’s San Juan and Bonaire and Air Jamaica connects with Bonaire and Curaçao.

WATER TEMPERATURE

24°C (75°F) in the cool season, but the average is 27°C (80°F).

VISIBILITY

Visibility is generally very clear - more than 30m (100ft).

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

The marine life is diverse and prolific, tame and approachable.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Often shallow, generally less than 40m (130ft), but drop-offs and walls may descend deeper.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

There are no recompression facilities in Aruba - patients are transferred to Curaçao.

Bonaire:

Saint Franciscus (Francisco) Hospital,

Kaya Soeur Bartola, Kralendijk,

Telephone 114.

Curaçao:

The Saint Elisabeth Hospital

(St Elisabeth Gasthuis), located in

Willemstad’s Otrobanda district, contains

the island’s two hyperbaric chambers.

St Elizabeth Hospital,

Telephone 599 9 625100/624900

Recompression Chamber

Telephone 599 9 637457/637288

SNORKELLING

All three islands are a paradise for snorkellers of all standards.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

Except on their windy north and northeast coasts, diving (other than deep dives) in the ABCs is mostly relaxed and suitable for all abilities. Some dives have moderate currents where intermediate skills are preferable.

All operators offer extensive facilities, diving courses and have equipment for hire. The larger ones offer Nitrox and technical diving.

VIRGIN ISLANDS

CLIMATE

Temperatures are lower than other areas of the Caribbean and averages around 20°-30°C (68°-86°F). There can be cool winds.

BEST TIME TO GO

The Virgin Islands are an ideal holiday location all year round and have a fairly equable climate, sharing the trade winds of the Lesser Antilles. There is a hurricane risk and this can be anywhere from September through to January, but it is rare that this has an adverse effect on your holiday. Summers are hot and humid with temperatures rising above 30°C (86°F). Care should be taken with exposure to the sun, particularly while on the dive boats. A waterproof sunscreen with a high sun protection factor and a hat should be worn at all times.

GETTING THERE

There are regular service jet flights from all the American hub airports such as Miami, Houston, Chicago etc. straight into St Croix and St Thomas. There are also flights from London Gatwick, serviced by Caledonian and operated by British Airways. However, due to the size of the international airport on Beef Island in the British Virgin Islands, all flights are first routed through San Juan in Puerto Rico, with a link by American Eagle.

WATER TEMPERATURES

Average 24°C (75°F), full wet suit and hood recommended.

VISIBILITY

May to September is best for water quality.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

Excellent invertebrate life, particularly squid and octopus.

DEPTH OF DIVES

15-25m (50-80ft).

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

The region’s recompression chamber is located at St Thomas Hospital in Charlotte Amalie.

Telephone (809) 776 8311.

Emergency telephone 922.

SNORKELLING

Good close to shore, but visibility suffers.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

All levels of diver are catered for, but the water is cooler than in other areas of the Caribbean.

TRAVEL PRACTICALITIES

While on Virgin Gorda, hire a small skiff and motor out to Saba Rock, home of the legendary wreck hunter and latter-day pirate Bert Kilbride.

The Baths on Virgin Gorda are a spectacular clump of simply gigantic granite boulders, which tumble into the sea amid tall palm trees and a gorgeous beach.

On St Croix, visit the Steeple building that houses a superb collection of Indian Artefacts and Wim Great House, which is a curious, moted, former estate building, which has been excellently restored.

Fort Christian on St Thomas dates from the Danes’ arrival in the 1660s and houses a superb museum.

St John has great attractions, and is worthy of its National Park.

BAHAMAS

CLIMATE

July to October is hurricane season and the time of highest rainfall. July and August can still be busy though, so book well in advance, especially for shark and dolphin dives.

BEST TIME TO GO

For diving, the best time is from November to June, which are the driest months. Best time is November through June to avoid hurricane season, but can be hot.

GETTING THERE

Nassau is serviced by all of the world’s major airlines through any of the hub airports. The majority of divers come from the USA and they will probably route through Miami first. Bahama Air connect the entire Bahamas island chain with Nassau.

WATER TEMPERATURE

Set astride the Gulf Stream, the water stays at an equable temperature all year round with an average of around 27°C (80°F).

VISIBILITY

Generally in the vicinity of over 50m (165ft), but much less on the inshore, shallow dive sites.

QUALITY OF MARINE LIFE

The best location to have encounters with sharks and dolphins in the entire Caribbean.

DEPTH OF DIVES

Average 25m (80ft), but also very deep dives.

RECOMPRESSION CHAMBERS

Bahamas Hyperbaric Centre, PO Box

CB-10981, Nassau.

SNORKELLING

Good off the shore, but better off dive boats when they visit the shallow reefs.

DIVE PRACTICALITIES

All levels of diver catered for, water calm and protected.