Danielle Pacheco, Author at The Adventure Junkies

Best Sipadan Liveaboard Trips

Danielle Pacheco — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 13:47:52 +0000

Sipadan is a diving gem located in the Coral Triangle, off the coast of Borneo in Malaysia. To protect the pristine marine environment, diving here is highly regulated and a limited number of permits are given. A Sipadan liveaboard is the best way to ensure you get as much bottom time as possible.

Malaysia’s only oceanic island was formed by layer upon layer of coral that accumulated on an extinct volcano. It’s now a diving mecca, featuring a sheer coral wall teeming with reef fish that plunges 2,000 ft (600 m) down into the ocean floor below. Whether you’re a pelagic lover or a macro aficionado, you will fall in love with the diving here.

There are a lot of factors to consider when planning your Sipadan liveaboard trip. Here at The Adventure Junkies, we’ve put together a few considerations to help you decide which itinerary is right for you.

For more of our liveaboard recommendations, check out these popular articles:

Caribbean | Bahamas | Belize | Cuba | Turks & Caicos

North Pacific | Galapagos | Guadalupe | Socorro | Cocos

Red Sea & Middle East | Egypt | Sudan | Oman | Djibouti

Indian Ocean | Maldives | Seychelles | Visayas | Truk Lagoon

QUICK ANSWER – BEST SIPADAN LIVEABOARD TRIPS

1. MV Celebes Explorer

2. MV Andaman Tritan

SIPADAN LIVEABOARD REVIEWS

MV CELEBES EXPLORER

Photo Credit: MV Celebes Explorer Liveaboard

The MV Celebes Explorer is the original Sipadan liveaboard and the only one to guarantee year-round diving at Sipadan, with permits for diving six days a week. This makes it the perfect option for die-hard divers who want to log lots of underwater time.

The liveaboard itself is fairly basic. However, the crew is outstanding and will make sure your dive trip is one to remember. Divers can indulge in a massage between dives or simply kick back and relax in the lounge or on the shaded sundeck.

8 double air-conditioned cabins all come with en-suite bathrooms. Meals are served buffet-style and feature a mix of Malay and Chinese cuisine.

Wifi, nitrox and rental gear are available for a fee. On-board courses include Advanced Open Water and nitrox certification.

CHECK OUT LATEST PRICE & AVAILABILITY

MV ANDAMAN TRITAN

Photo Credit: MV Andaman Tritan Liveaboard

This recently renovated yacht is modern and inviting, with 9 cabins that can accommodate up to 23 guests. Primarily focused for the moment on the nearby Similan Islands, the MV Andaman Tritan plans to start trips to Sipadan in the near future, so keep an eye out!

An air-conditioned salon and cushy lounge chairs on the MV Andaman Tritan’s sun deck invite divers to relax between dives. Alternately, work the kinks out with a soothing massage.

The air-conditioned cabins are simple but elegant, with Eastern-inspired accents. Daily housekeeping is provided. Buffet-style meals are served three times a day, with snacks available in between and soft drinks and alcohol for purchase.

The MV Andaman Tritan boasts a roomy dive deck, with plenty of space for camera and other gear. Nitrox and rental equipment available for a surcharge. Non-divers and snorkelers are warmly welcomed onboard.

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COMPARISON TABLE – FIND THE BEST LIVEABOARD IN SIPADAN FOR YOU

PICTURE	LIVEABOARD	MAX. DIVERS	NITROX	WIFI	PRICE
	MV CELEBES EXPLORER	16	AVAILABLE	AVAILABLE	$$
	MV ANDAMAN TRITAN	23	AVAILABLE	NO	$$
PICTURE	LIVEABOARD	MAX. DIVERS	NITROX	WIFI	PRICE

5 THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A LIVEABOARD IN SIPADAN

MARINE LIFE

Jacques Cousteau raved about the healthy marine environment he found at Sipadan while filming the Ghost of the Sea Turtle. The volcanic island is home to 600 species of coral and 1200 species of fish, many of which are endemic. Divers here will see everything from nesting green and hawksbill turtles to barracuda “tornadoes.” Fortunate divers might even see a whale shark or two.

Many marine species can be seen all year long at Sipadan, including white-tip sharks, eagle rays and moray eels. Lucky divers who go to certain dive sites early in the morning can see huge groups of bumphead parrotfish. The island is also a great place to glimpse angelfish, gobies, seahorses and other macro life.

The underwater landscapes are stunning in their own right, with coral gardens and dizzying drop-offs. And, of course, you’ll be surrounded by schools of tropical fish in all shapes, sizes and colors. Divers interested in protecting this beautiful marine environment can check out voluntourism opportunities at Sipadan.

WHEN TO GO

Liveaboards operate all year at Sipadan, but generally the best time for diving is between April and December. Whenever you go, try to book far in advance as spots are very limited.

During April and May divers will spot leopard sharks at Sipadan, while June to September is turtle nesting season. December is the best month to visit if you’re interested in diving with hammerhead sharks.

From April through September you can expect calm waters and warm, dry weather. September brings light showers, while the real rainy season starts in December. However, even in the rainy season, showers are unpredictable and you might have clear skies.

LENGTH OF THE TRIP

Staying at Sipadan overnight is prohibited, so a liveaboard is by far the best way to dive the island. Liveaboard trips to Sipadan usually last between 4-7 nights. A longer trip will facilitate access to the more remote sites and let you take full advantage of your diving holiday.

If your budget or timeframe are limited, a short trip is still definitely worth it. Since only 120 diving permits are issued per day, land-based operators often have trouble securing them. Even a 4-day liveaboard trip puts you ahead of the crowds for diving at this incredible island.

DIVING ABILITY LEVEL

You don’t need a minimum number of logged dives to book a liveaboard at Sipadan. Waters here are calm, and most sites are suitable for beginner and intermediate divers. If you’re interested in furthering your diving certification, you can take an Advanced Open Water Diver course or get nitrox-certified during your trip.

COMFORT LEVEL

A Sipadan liveaboard is for divers who want to spend time in the island’s amazing dive sites. If you’re planning to dive here, you should be prepared to sacrifice some comfort. But don’t worry – the friendly crews and the chance to be one of few divers at Sipadan will more than make up for the rudimentary amenities on your liveaboard.

So far, only two liveaboards offer trips to Sipadan. The MV Andaman Tritan was recently renovated and boasts a higher level of comfort than the MV Celebes Explorer. On the other hand, the MV Celebes Explorer offers more privacy, with en-suite bathrooms in every cabin. Since the two boats are comparable in terms of price, it depends what matters more to you.

Either way, you won’t be browsing the web or soaking in any jacuzzis on your Sipadan liveaboard. This is a chance to unplug and enjoy the sunset island views!

VIDEO: SCUBA DIVING IN SIPADAN

The post Best Sipadan Liveaboard Trips appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

100 Gifts For Scuba Divers – The Ultimate Gift Guide for Divers

Danielle Pacheco — Fri, 27 Oct 2017 04:34:45 +0000

Are you stumped on gift ideas for your diver friends and family? Not sure what you can get them that is practical and fun? When you’re not a scuba diver yourself, it’s hard to know what gifts will be appreciated. Here at The Adventure Junkies, we’d like to help you out with this list of great gifts for scuba divers!

To make it easier for you, we’ve divided the list into sections according to price and added parts for gifts that he would love, gifts that she would love and fun gifts for kids. You can relax – whatever the occasion, there’s something for every scuba diver on this list!

Gifts for all Scuba Divers
Gifts for Him
Gifts for Her
Gifts for Kids

GIFTS FOR ALL SCUBA DIVERS

UNDER 50 USD

SCUBA FIN SPRING STRAPS

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Amazon

Scuba fins super frustrating to take on and off? Not anymore! These bungee straps will help your scuba friend whip their fins off in a flash and eliminate the need to spend hours adjusting.

MASK STRAP COVER

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Amazon

Getting your mask stuck on your hair is the worst. This neoprene strap cover lets it slide effortlessly over your friend’s silky locks and makes their dive experience just that much better. Dive in comfort!

GEAR ID TAGS

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Amazon

When you’ve already shelled out thousands of dollars on dive equipment, you don’t want people getting confused and accidentally grabbing yours! These personalized, easy-to-use labels will help your diver keep track of their stuff on those crowded dive boats.

PORTABLE LUGGAGE SCALE

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Amazon

This is an essential tool for any traveler, and even more so if you’re lugging around clunky dive equipment. Beat the surprise excess baggage fees every time with this handy portable scale. This particular model has a 110lb (50kg) limit.

DIVE HOUSING BUNDLE

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Amazon

Nurture your diver’s underwater photography skills with a dive housing bundle for their GoPro. Nothing is easier than snapping pictures and shooting videos with this tiny device, and now it can travel to 197ft (60m) below! If you don’t dive yourself, now you can travel along with them.

CAMERA FLOATY

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Amazon

This simple gadget might just prevent a heart attack or two! Should anything happen to your friend’s underwater camera while they’re diving, this will stop it from sinking to the depths of Davy Jones’ locker. Plus, it’s nice and bright so they can easily spot it when it floats to the surface.

SOLAR-POWERED PHONE CHARGER

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Amazon

A solar-powered phone charger is both eco-friendly and incredibly practical. This one is suitable for iPhones as well as other devices, and can even charge two phones at once. It comes with a flashlight and is hands-free for recharging on the go.

OCEAN-FRIENDLY SUNSCREEN

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Amazon

Sunscreen is one of the worst offenders when it comes to humans vs. oceans. Don’t be one of those people who are polluting the very reef they came to visit! There are a number of eco-friendly sunscreens out there but this one is specifically designed to be reef-safe, non-greasy and water-resistant. It’s safe to use in freshwater and saltwater. Stream2Sea also make shampoo, conditioner and other beauty products.

GUYLIAN CHOCOLATES

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Amazon

Guylian partners with Project Seahorse, a feisty group of researchers who aim to raise awareness about threats to the ocean and work actively with local populations to combat harmful fishing practices. Every time you purchase a box of Guylian chocolates, part of the proceeds go to Project Seahorse.

DEEP TEA DIVER

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Amazon

This scuba-themed knickknack takes the cake. Fred the Deep Tea Diver has an awesome name and comes with an “air tank” to balance his weight. Every diver needs one of these!

WATERPROOF SEAT COVER

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Amazon

Diving gear has a way of making a person’s car age prematurely! With waterproof seat covers, you can make your diver’s life a lot easier. This one is comfortable and easy to use. Careful, this particular model is suitable for dark interiors only.

ECO-FRIENDLY WEIGHTS

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Amazon

Reduce the harmful effect of lead on the environment with these neoprene lead shot weight bags, coated with a special shell that prevents lead from seeping out into the ocean. When properly cared for, they last at least two years.

FIN SOCKS

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Amazon

These neoprene fin socks will keep your diver’s toes warm and comfortable inside their diving fins or when walking on the beach.

WATERPROOF KEYMASTER POUCH

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Amazon

A convenient way to keep all your cards in one place without having to worry about losing them or getting them wet. This model comes with a lanyard and is safe for storing electronic key fobs.

UPCYCLED LAPTOP CASE

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Amazon

This ingenious company has taken it upon themselves to “upcycle” the leftover neoprene from the wetsuit industry. The result is these beautifully crafted laptop and tablet covers, each one hand-numbered and limited-edition.

EXTENDABLE CAMERA HANDLE

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Amazon

Make it even easier to shoot video of those amazing macro critters nestled in the reef! This glorified selfie stick for your diver friend’s GoPro weighs practically nothing and folds up nicely to fit into a suitcase.

UK PRO FLEX GRIP

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Amazon

Help your friend get the perfect shot with the easy-to-maneuver UK Pro Flex Grip, which can accommodate an underwater camera on one end and a flashlight on the other. Perfect for night diving and compatible with GoPro 2 and 3.

WATERPROOF FLASH DRIVE

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Amazon

A waterproof flash drive is a great way to back up photos on a dive trip. This one is waterproof, x-ray proof, magnet proof and shock proof, plus it comes with a 5-year warranty just in case your friend manages to destroy it despite all of that!

TRAVEL MAP

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Amazon

Every diver dreams of one day voyaging to far-flung places on this planet to seek out underwater treasures. Help your loved one remember where they’ve been and plan where they want to go next with this travel map.

MOUTHPIECE FOR JAW FATIGUE

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Amazon

One of those things that drives you crazy when you dive a lot is jaw fatigue from clamping down on the regulator. Help your diver beat it with this clever mouthpiece, available in a range of sexy colors.

DIVE LIGHT

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Amazon

Does your friend poke around a lot of nooks and crannies? Love to go cave diving? A dive light is an invaluable tool that helps bring the underwater world to life, right in front of their eyes.

CHANGING TOWEL

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Amazon

Help your diver avoid awkward situations with this nifty one-size-fits-all changing towel. Made of thick microfiber, it’s great to use for changing in and out of a wetsuit or to keep warm between dives. Comes with a hood and handy pockets for storing a phone and other small items.

KEYCHAIN WITH O-RINGS

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Amazon

Save the day with this pack of spare O-rings! This small keychain is a convenient way to store a few spare O-rings; it’s well-sealed to prevent from losing them. These will always come in handy!

SCUBA DIVING REPAIR KIT

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Amazon

If you want to go all-out, invest a little more in this scuba diving repair kit. The kit includes wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, tie wraps, silicone grease and O-rings, everything your friend will need to patch up minor technical problems on their dive trip.

REEF FISH ID BOOKLET

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Amazon

Set the stage for your diver’s next trip with a waterproof reef fish ID booklet. It’s fun to know what you’re looking at! You can get different ones according to which region they’ll be visiting. Better yet, get them the three-volume Reef Fish, Reef Creature and Reef Coral (2013) set. This one covers the species of Florida, the Caribbean and the Bahamas but there are sets available for other regions as well.

ANTI-FOG GEL

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Amazon

Need I say more? We all know a foggy mask can ruin a dive – with this anti-fog gel, you don’t need to worry about that anymore! Priceless.

SCUBA FIRST AID KIT

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Amazon

For all the little things that can go wrong on a dive trip, it’s nice to have a first-aid kit. This one treats everything from seasickness to dehydration, as well as minor stings, burns and skin allergies.

WATERPROOF PHONE CASE

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Amazon

Bringing your phone on a boat is always a little risky. Minimize the risk with a waterproof phone case – this one even allows you to take pictures and videos in shallow water.

UNIVERSAL HANGER

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Amazon

Now your friend can organize all their scuba gear in one place! Universal hangers help things like wetsuits and hoods dry faster and keeps it all from getting lost. For a truly deluxe experience, consider splurging on the Underwater Kinetics version, which has its own built-in fan.

WRIST LANYARD

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Amazon

A wrist lanyard can always come in handy. An easy way to hang diving accessories from the diver’s wrist.

HAMMERED HEAD BOTTLE OPENER

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Amazon

There are tons of ocean-themed corkscrews out there; this one is classy and practical at the same time. The “Hammered Head” by Umbra is a dual corkscrew and bottle opener in the shape of a hammerhead shark. Excellent quality-price ratio.

ANTI-CHAFE WETSUIT LUBE

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Amazon

Anyone who has ever struggled out of a damp wetsuit knows how much of a pain it can be. Make a diver’s life way easier with this eco-friendly wetsuit lube, which reduces chafing without getting everything all slimy.

SCUBA DIVER DECAL

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Amazon

Give your diver the gift of this simple but elegant scuba diver car decal that broadcasts their love for scuba diving.

SCUBA DIVER LUNCH BAG

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Amazon

This fun lunch bag is decorated with the scuba version of the classic evolution sketch. Easy to carry thanks to the straps, the bag doubles as a small tote bag or children’s backpack.

DIVE KNIFE

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Amazon

A dive knife is super handy for getting out of tight places. Equip your diver with a good one, like this model by Cressi which features a stainless steel blade with a quick-release locking mechanism.

DIVE BAG

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Amazon

The Mares Cruise Mesh duffle bag is the perfect size for lugging around personal dive gear such as fins, mask and snorkel and wetsuit. The mesh exterior allows for easy rinsing and drying in the bag itself.

DRY BAG

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Amazon

Dry bags are arguably one of the best inventions ever. The best part is that this bag folds up small when not in use – perfect for bringing on the plane.

FATBOY LAMZAC

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Amazon

The Fatboy Lamzac is a blow-up chair that weighs less than 3 pounds and takes two minutes to inflate – and it floats, so you can bring it in the water! Ideal for budget liveaboards with uncomfortable seats, or any trip where you get to go swimming between dives.

DIVE SLATE

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Amazon

You can’t go wrong with a dive slate – this gift is always useful. The Promate Underwater Dive Slate has a compass and glows in the dark for those night dives!

TANK BANGER

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Amazon

A tank banger is a simple but crucial piece of dive equipment. Wrapped around the diver’s tank, pulling it will make a loud sound. Can be used to call for help or just get someone’s attention.

WATERPROOF SPEAKERS

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Amazon

This year, give the gift of music. Liven up your dive mate’s liveaboard trip with the Ecoxgear Bluetooth Portable Audio System, very cheap considering the speakers are waterproof! Better yet, give them their very own diving playlist to go along with it!

GOPRO MASK MOUNT

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Amazon

Yet another GoPro attachment but a very handy one. With the affordable Scubapro mask mount, your diver won’t have to worry about losing their GoPro. And you can see the dive through their eyes later with the video footage!

COLLAPSIBLE WATER BOTTLE

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Amazon

Packing a water bottle can be a pain since they take up so much room. This revolutionary collapsible water bottle folds down to a fraction of its size and can be stuffed into even the fullest of suitcases.

JCS SURFACE MARKER WITH WHISTLE

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Amazon

This surface marker buoy signals your location to topside and makes sure the boat doesn’t lose you! Bright-orange and easy to see, plus it comes with a whistle for catching attention.

EMERGENCY DIVE LIGHT

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Amazon

Hopefully, your friend will never have to use it, but an emergency dive light is nice to have in conjunction with a whistle or other noisemaker. This one by Innovative Scuba Concepts can be seen from more than a mile away and features seven modes, including strobe and SOS. Battery charges last up to 80 hours.

MASK BAG

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Amazon

A perfectly fitting mask is hard to find and once you do track one down, you want to keep it in perfect condition. Help your scuba friend protect their mask and snorkel with this sturdy mask bag, which includes a side pocket for storing defog gel.

MCNETT WETSUIT SHAMPOO

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Amazon

This wetsuit cleaner and conditioner removes residue like algae, salt, chlorine and the bacteria that grow in this lovely damp environment. The result is a wetsuit that smells nicer and lasts longer. It’s also all right to use on drysuits, booties, gloves, you name it.

SWIMMING HAIRBAND

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Amazon

All long-haired divers will have struggled with their silky locks at some point. Cold-water divers especially will know the agony of having their hair snag on that rubber hood! This quick-drying swimming hairband keeps hair in one place and out of the way.

REEF SAFE TRAVEL BAG

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Amazon

This handy gift basket covers all the basic necessities. Your friend will be the most popular person on their liveaboard boat!

SCUBA CALENDAR

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Amazon

Your diving friends are always daydreaming about their next scuba trip anyway. Unleash their imagination with this beautiful calendar featuring underwater images of turtles, sharks, seahorses and more in exotic locations such as La Paz and Cozumel.

SCUBA PHONE COVER

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Amazon

Underwater scenes with their bright colors make the perfect backdrop for phone covers. This one, designed for the Samsung Galaxy S9, features healthy coral reefs.

THERMOS

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Amazon

Make sure your friend has a piping-hot or refreshing cold drink after their dive. This stainless steel 16oz travel mug keeps drinks cool for 18 hours and hot for 7 hours. It also features a built-in tea hook for tea bags or tea infusers.

REEF-SAFE SKIN MOISTURIZER

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Amazon

Eternal Summer skin moisturizer with aloe vera helps protect skin against the damaging effects of the sun and air pollutants. It’s reef-safe and eco-friendly.

BASEBALL CAP

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Amazon

Minimize sun exposure on the boat with this trendy scuba diver baseball cap. The clever design also makes it useful for keeping your head warm on cool-water dives.

4OCEAN BRACELET

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4Ocean

Your friend can wear their love for the ocean on their sleeve with this gender-neutral bracelet. The 4Ocean foundation promises to remove one pound of garbage from the ocean for each bracelet they sell. The bracelet itself is made from 100% recycled materials – the beads from glass bottles, and the cord from plastic water bottles.

YELLOW FLUORO MASK FILTER

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Amazon

This is a nifty gadget that any diver will be dying to try out. The yellow barrier filter gives you a fluorescent underwater experience at a very reasonable price. For the diver who wants to try something unique!

SCUBA DIVING T-SHIRT

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Amazon

Broadcast your friend’s love for diving with this classic I’d Rather Be Diving t-shirt, available in men’s and women’s sizes.

SUBSCRIPTION TO DAN

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Divers Alert Network

You can’t go wrong with a subscription to the Diver’s Alert Network. This trusted organization provides insurance and emergency medical evacuation assistance to its members, plus a magazine that publishes 4 issues a year.

TRULY, MADLY, DEEPLY

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Amazon

Ali Bin Thalith, a marine photographer from Dubai and trained in France and London, has put together a collection of underwater photographs taken on his dive travels over a span of ten years. The resulting book showcases an inspiring array of marine species, from macro to pelagic and everything in between.

MY FATHER, THE CAPTAIN

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Amazon

Get up close and intimate with the legendary Jacques Cousteau through the eyes of his son, who has decided to carry on his father’s legacy in film, undersea exploration and environmental conservation. A touching look at the life of the “father of scuba diving.”

PLASTIC OCEAN

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Amazon

Charles Moore tells the story of how he stumbled upon the infamous plastic island that is the scourge of the Pacific Ocean. Admittedly slightly depressing reading material, this book is nevertheless fascinating for its insights into how plastic affects our health and the health of the ocean we love.

NEUTRAL BUOYANCY

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Amazon

This is a must-read for anybody interested in the origins of scuba diving. Tim Ecott covers the history of our fascination with the ocean, from the times of Aristotle through the diving bells of the sixteenth century and finally the present day. This serious reading material is broken up by interesting anecdotes of Ecott’s own diving travels to the four corners of the world.

THE SILENT WORLD

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Amazon

Jacques Cousteau pioneered modern scuba diving with the invention of the Aqua Lung, which allowed divers to breathe underwater for the very first time. Read up on his earliest underwater adventures in this 50th anniversary edition of his memoir.

THE EXTREME LIFE OF THE SEA

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Amazon

This book is for anyone fascinated by the weird and amazing creatures that lurk in the depths of the ocean. Stephen and Anthony Palumbi include a cautionary note on how human activity is threatening these natural wonders.

THE WORLD IS BLUE

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Amazon

Following up on her influential 1996 book, Sea Change: A Message of the Ocean, internationally renowned ocean ambassador Sylvia Earle in partnership with the National Geographic once again prods us to reduce overfishing and take steps to protect the ocean. Of course, there are countless tomes dedicated to the wonders of the deep. For more inspiration, check out our list of the 39 best scuba books.

DIVER MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION

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Amazon

Diver is a great diving magazine produced in Canada with content covering gear reviews, specialty diving, photography and diving in North America and around the world. Get your loved one a year-long subscription to the print version for only $30.

GIFTS BETWEEN 50 AND 100 USD

CAMERA FILTER

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Amazon

A color filter is an investment and may seem pricey for what it is. But it will make a world of difference to your diver’s underwater photos. They’ll appreciate it every time they go diving and they’re able to create lifelong memories! Be sure to buy the right color filter according to the color of the water where they do most of their diving.

DIVE WATCH

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Amazon

Every diver can use a dive watch, and the nice thing about this present is that you can choose from a wide variety of styles. You can choose ones that have functions such as dive duration, depth, water temperature and an alarm for ascents that are too rapid. Or, go a bit more in-depth and get a full-on dive computer.

DIVE ALERT

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Amazon

This two-in-one safety device combines a topside air horn and an underwater noisemaker for emergency situations. The Dive Alert is reported to be audible up to one mile away.

GIFTS OVER 100 USD

SCUBA DIVING COURSE

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Amazon

Get your loved one started on their scuba journey with a PADI Open Water e-learning course, or help them advance their skills with a specialty diving course or the Advanced Open Water Diver course. If you’d like them to get their feet wet but don’t want to splash out on a full-on course, you can also consider the Discover Scuba diving course.

Explore the full range of PADI courses to see what they’ll like best, or get them a gift certificate for them to choose by themselves. There are also courses for kids and youth listed further down the page.

LIVEABOARD DIVING TRIP

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Diviac | Liveaboard

If you really love your diving friend, why not give them the trip of their lifetime? If you’re a diver yourself you could even go with them!

Although the price tags might seem daunting, there are quite a few affordable trips out there that give you several days of diving with everything included, for under $1000. Even two or three days on a liveaboard is an amazing gift! For inspiration, check out our article on the best budget liveaboard trips.

GOPRO HERO5

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Amazon

GoPro has redefined underwater photo and video with its easy-to-use design and crisp, clear images. With this amazing gift, your diver can capture those once-in-a-lifetime memories with minimal effort. The GoPro Hero5 is waterproof to 10m without a housing and features 4K video and 12MP photos.

CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR

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Divestock

Keep your diver safe from carbon monoxide with a carbon monoxide detector. This one is easy to use and can be controlled with a smartphone or by itself.

SPARE AIR CYLINDER

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Amazon

Set your diver’s mind at ease with a spare air cylinder, a small cylinder that contains 3 cubic feet of air for emergency situations. No fancy setup or complicated instructions –they can just take a breath whenever they’re in a tight spot.

WATERPROOF IPHONE HOUSING

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Amazon

This is a fantastic investment for diving friends who are addicted to their iPhone. Depth-rated to 60m, this case allows divers to shoot videos and take pictures with the trusty phone they already know how to use.

ANY AMOUNT

DONATION TO PROJECT AWARE

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Amazon

Donate to Project AWARE to help fight against pollution and lobby for protection for the ocean’s vulnerable species. This non-profit organization, originally founded by PADI, plays an instrumental role in marine conservation around the world. Another easy way to give is through Amazon Smile. Just click on the Amazon Smile link before you purchase your gift on Amazon and part of the money will go to Project AWARE, at no extra cost to you.

GIFTS FOR HIM

OCEAN-FRIENDLY SWIMSUIT

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LifeFourTheElement

These sleek swim shorts slip on comfortably under a wetsuit. They are 100% biodegradable, chlorine- and salt-resistant and made from recycled nylon salvaged from abandoned fishing nets.

RASHGUARD

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Amazon

Protect your scuba diver from nasty scrapes with this rashguard, which fits like a glove and is designed to minimize discomfort.

FLEECE

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REI

This fleece jacket by Patagonia is ideal for wearing under a drysuit in cold-water diving, or simply for throwing over your shoulders to warm up after a dive. Made with fabric that is bluesign®-approved and available in men’s and women’s versions.

SHARK SLIPPERS

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Amazon

For the super mature male diver, get these plush, terrifying shark slippers. All right, these are available in women’s sizes, too, but isn’t this just the quintessential “cool dad” gift?

SCUBA DIVER TIE CLIP

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Amazon

Give a scuba diver tie clip to your sophisticated scuba friend and spice up their business meetings or their nights on the town.

GIFTS FOR HER

OCEAN-FRIENDLY SWIMSUIT

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LifeForTheElement

The print on this swimsuit pays homage to its origins: abandoned fishing nets that were salvaged from the ocean. Like the men’s version, this swimsuit is 100% biodegradable, chlorine- and salt-resistant.

FEMALE URINATION DEVICE

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Amazon

PADI notes that holding your urine can lead to a bladder infection, and not drinking enough water can make you more susceptible to decompression sickness. On small dive boats with no bathrooms, you’ll make your female diver friend’s scuba trip much more comfortable with this female urination device.

SCUBA JEWELRY

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Amazon

There is tons of jewelry out there with beautiful scuba-inspired designs. Some of our favorites are this gender-neutral scuba diver glass pendant by Zulasurfing and this vintage scuba helmet necklace by KeyLimeBay. DiveSilver has a nice sterling silver jewelry collection – we particularly liked the sea turtle pendants.

FLEECE

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REI

WOMEN DIVERS HALL OF FAME CALENDAR

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WDHOF

This calendar features inspiring pictures of women divers. Proceeds go towards grants for women divers, ensuring empowered female divers for generations to come.

SCUBA MASCARA

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Amazon

For socially conscious divers looking for a good water-resistant mascara, this is a sure winner. Paraben and cruelty-free, The Balm Scuba Mascara is a match made in heaven!

GIFTS FOR KIDS

CREATE-A-MURAL DOLPHIN WALL DECALS

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Amazon

This fun dolphin wall decoration will brighten up a child’s room and help instill an early love for the ocean. The material is waterproof and eco-friendly and can be applied to any smooth surface.

SCUBA DIVER BATH TOY

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Amazon

Kids will have a blast at bath time with this awesome scuba diver bath toy which swims in water and crawls on land! Start exploring underwater in total safety from a very early age!

MASK, SNORKEL, FIN SET

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Amazon

This set includes everything a child needs to start snorkeling in the pool or in the ocean. Made by Cressi, the well-known scuba brand, and featuring a snorkel with a splash guard.

SCUBA DIVER BIB

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Amazon

Scuba parents will love this adorable scuba diving toddler bib. What better way to get a toddler interested in the wonderful world of scuba diving?

SHARK BACKPACK

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Amazon

Kids are guaranteed to get some serious street cred with this stylish shark backpack. It comes with a padded back and shoulder straps and is suitable for all ages. Hey, you could even get it for your friend who’s still a kid at heart!

WATER WINGS

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Amazon

Boost a child’s confidence with water wings, which give them the freedom and independence they need to start navigating the swimming pool. Parents can breathe easy knowing their child will float, and children will learn to love the water.

DIVE SERIES

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Amazon

Gordan Korman is the master of outdoor adventure fiction for young adults. This thrilling tale about Adriana, Dante, Star and Kaz’s deep-sea adventure in the Caribbean has just enough technical lingo to kickstart a love for diving in your diver’s kids.

JOURNEY INTO THE DEEP

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Amazon

Dive deep into the mysteries of the ocean with this enthralling book by Rebecca Johnson. Along with the scientists of the Census of Marine Life, kids will investigate pygmy octopuses, intricate jellyfish and zombie worms. Even the youngest toddlers can appreciate the incredible photographs.

DIVING WITH SHARKS

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Amazon

The shark edition of the popular National Geographic Kids Adventures series is sure to be a hit with avid mini-explorers. Featuring real-life stories and lots of colorful photographs.

The post 100 Gifts For Scuba Divers – The Ultimate Gift Guide for Divers appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Best Luxury Diving Liveaboard Trips (Over $3,000)

Danielle Pacheco — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 05:29:26 +0000

Planning your dream dive trip? Whether you’re exploring the rich biodiversity of the Galapagos or braving the shark-infested waters of Guadalupe Island, you want this liveaboard trip to be perfect. We’ve prepared an overview of the best luxury liveaboard trips to help you find the one that’s right for you!

If you’ve decided to splash out for a luxury liveaboard, you’ll want to choose your boat wisely. Luxury liveaboards come with a price tag, but it’s worth it for the superior experience. You can expect a magnificent boat, exceptional dive facilities and attentive, experienced staff. Prepare to be treated like royalty!

For more of our liveaboard recommendations, check out these popular articles:

Caribbean | Bahamas | Belize | Cuba | Turks & Caicos

North Pacific | Galapagos | Guadalupe | Socorro | Cocos

Red Sea & Middle East | Egypt | Sudan | Oman | Djibouti

Indian Ocean | Maldives | Seychelles

QUICK ANSWER – THE BEST LUXURY LIVEABOARD TRIPS

BEST LUXURY LIVEABOARD TRIP REVIEWS

MV GREAT ESCAPE – AUSTRALIA

Photo Credit: The MV Great Escape – Australia Liveaboard

It doesn’t get much cooler than a liveaboard with a private helicopter! The MV Great Escape will bring you aerial views of waterfalls, Aboriginal art sites and more on Australia’s Kimberley Coast and Rowley Shoals.

The varied shore trips include swimming in rock pools, mud crabbing and bush walks. You can also choose to just relax in the hot tub, or spend a quiet afternoon fishing and have the chef prepare your catch for dinner.

This boat features a stabilizing hull for a guaranteed smooth ride. Hotel or airport transfers are included and Wi-Fi and rental equipment are available for a fee.

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FOUR SEASONS EXPLORER – MALDIVES

Photo Credit: The Four Seasons Explorer – Maldives Liveaboard

The Four Seasons brand is a point of reference in the five-star hotel world. Now you can experience their luxury standards and renowned customer service onboard a liveaboard dive trip in the stunning Maldives!

The Four Seasons Explorer has its own spa, massage area and Jacuzzi. There is a fully-fledged PADI Dive Centre on board as well as a marine biologist. Partake in fishing or an array of water sports, or explore the islands.

Cabins are so sumptuous you’ll think you’re actually in a Four Seasons hotel. Special meals are served on the islands’ white sandy beaches. The liveaboard has free Wi-Fi, nitrox and dive gear.

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DAMAI I – RAJA AMPAT

Photo Credit: Damai I – Raja Ampat Liveaboard

Let the Damai I pamper you on a dive trip through the spectacular Coral Triangle in Raja Ampat. This beautiful wooden schooner is equipped with spacious and elegant cabins for up to 12 guests.

During downtime, guests can get a massage in the spa, try their hand at fishing or relax on the partially shaded sundeck. Shore trips include a chance to see an active volcano and Komodo dragons.

The Damai I has a camera room with workstations. Nitrox and rental equipment are available for a fee.

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AVALON II – CUBA

Photo Credit: Avalon II – Cuba Liveaboard

Built in 2014, the Avalon II is a deluxe liveaboard that will take you through Cuba’s Jardines de la Reina, one of the best-preserved sites in the Caribbean.

Between dives, you can relax on the sundeck or in the 500-gallon Jacuzzi. Brave divers can go snorkeling with small crocodiles. Guests will make regular trips to the islands.

All cabins feature panoramic windows. The cuisine is a mix of Italian and Cuban, with an abundance of fresh seafood. Rental equipment and nitrox are available for a fee.

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GALAPAGOS AGGRESSOR III – GALAPAGOS

Photo Credit: The Galapagos Aggressor III – Galapagos Liveaboard

The Galapagos Aggressor III has years of experience in providing top-notch liveaboard service in Galapagos. Guests will dive in small groups for a truly intimate experience.

Wildlife tours of the islands are included. Divers can also make use of the outdoor hot tub and sundeck. Cabins are bright and tastefully appointed. The delicious meals are complemented by free local beer and wine.

There is no Wi-Fi per se but the satellite system allows for sending and receiving emails and phone calls. Nitrox and rental equipment are available for a surcharge.

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NAUTILUS EXPLORER – GUADALUPE/SOCORRO

Photo Credit: Nautilus Explorer – Guadalupe/Socorro Liveaboard

There’s no better way to cage-dive with great white sharks than from the comfort and safety of a high-class liveaboard. That’s exactly what you’ll have with the Nautilus Explorer, a stylish diver-designed liveaboard yacht that can hold up to 24 guests.

The Nautilus Explorer offers panoramic ocean views from the hot tub. Apart from diving, other activities include kayaking, snorkeling and browsing the onboard boutique. Wi-Fi, nitrox and rental equipment are all available for a fee.

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PY ATLANTIS AZORES – PHILIPPINES

Photo Credit: PY Atlantis Azores – Philippines Liveaboard

The PY Atlantis Azores liveaboard is refined and modern, having been completely renovated in 2015. See Tubbataha Reef and the rest of the Philippines!

While not diving you can relax in the hot tub, the sundeck or the lounge. Possible shore excursions include trips to Chocolate Hills and trips to see tarsiers, the world’s smallest primate.

Meals are served in the indoor dining area with panoramic ocean views. A “social serving” of beer and wine is included. Wi-Fi is free, while nitrox and rental gear are available for a fee.

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TRUK MASTER – TRUK LAGOON/MARSHALL ISLANDS

Photo Credit: Truk Master – Truk Lagoon/Marshall Islands Liveaboard

Fully refitted in 2016, this sturdy steel liveaboard is all about the diving. Specialized for wreck diving in Truk Lagoon and the Bikini Atoll, the Truk Master is fully equipped for tec and rebreather diving.

The Truk Master serves up five meals a day and has snacks available. The opulent cabins look like something straight out of a luxury catalog, with mahogany furnishings and Eastern accents.

The Truk Master provides Wi-Fi, rental gear and nitrox for an extra fee. There is also a camera station.

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TIGER BLUE – KOMODO

Photo Credit: Tiger Blue – Komodo Liveaboard

This traditional Indonesian Phinisi vessel has just 5 cabins, for a maximum of 14 divers. It’s the ideal choice for groups who wish to charter the boat for themselves and tweak the itinerary to their liking.

After a day of diving in Komodo, enjoy a mouthwatering candlelit dinner served al fresco in the outdoor dining area. Later, go stargazing or snuggle up in the peaceful living room.

The crew of the Tiger Blue prides themselves on their customer service and will make sure your every whim is catered to. There’s no better way to discover the Coral Triangle! Rental gear is provided for a surcharge.

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OCEAN HUNTER III – PALAU

Photo Credit: Ocean Hunter III – Palau Liveaboard

Palau’s Ocean Hunter III takes diving to heart. In fact, the owner was admitted to the Woman Diver’s Hall of Fame in honor of her efforts in shark preservation!

Roomy common areas and a sundeck with two Jacuzzis welcome divers out of the water. You can also participate in exciting shore excursions or indulge in a spa treatment. The cuisine showcases a variety of cultural specialties including fresh sushi.

Because of the small number of divers, itineraries are flexible and divers get unlimited diving and bottom time. Wi-Fi, nitrox and rental gear are available for a fee. The liveaboard is TRIMIX and rebreather-friendly. Airport or hotel transfers are included.

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COMPARISON TABLE – THE BEST LUXURY LIVEABOARD TRIPS

PICTURE	LIVEABOARD	AREA	MAX. DIVERS	NITROX	WIFI
	MV GREAT ESCAPE	AUSTRALIA	14	NO	AVAILABLE
	FOUR SEASONS EXPLORER	MALDIVES	22	FREE	FREE
	DAMAI I	RAJA AMPAT	12	AVAILABLE	NO
	AVALON II	CUBA	20	AVAILABLE	NO
	GALAPAGOS AGGRESSOR III	GALAPAGOS	20	AVAILABLE	NO
	NAUTILUS EXPLORER	GUAFALUPE/SOCORRO	24	AVAILABLE	AVAILABLE
	PY ATLANTIS AZORES	PHILIPPINES	16	AVAILABLE	FREE
	TRUK MASTER	TRUK LAGOON	16	AVAILABLE	AVAILABLE
	TIGER BLUE	KOMODO	14	NO	NO
	OCEAN HUNTER III	PALAU	16	AVAILABLE	AVAILABLE
PICTURE	LIVEABOARD	AREA	MAX. DIVERS	NITROX	WIFI

WHAT TO EXPECT IN A LUXURY LIVEABOARD

ABOVE-AVERAGE CUSTOMER SERVICE

The crew on your luxury liveaboard will be experienced and try to anticipate your every need. Dive guides will know the area through and through, and there will usually be a high ratio of crew members to guests. They will take pride in ensuring that customer service is of the highest quality possible!

If you need a specialty meal or anything out of the ordinary, a luxury liveaboard should be flexible and accommodating. Attention to detail is one of the things that sets a luxury liveaboard apart from the rest.

STANDARD AMENITIES

Any luxury liveaboard worth its salt will have en-suite bathrooms and individual climate control in all the cabins. Some liveaboards go above and beyond, providing laundry service, shower amenities, private mini-bars, etc. These extra touches can really make your trip much more pleasant.

FANCY VESSEL

It goes without saying that all of the liveaboards on this list are incredibly extravagant. Whether you pick a plush modern yacht or a traditional wooden schooner, you can rest assured you will be sailing in the lap of luxury.

HIGH-END CUISINE

Likewise, the onboard cuisine will be of the highest standard. Many liveaboards put a special emphasis on the food, as they know how hungry divers can get. Professional chefs, fresh ingredients and exotic specialties will make the food one of the highlights of your trip for sure!

EXTRA FRILLS

It’s the small things in life – perhaps a spa, a Jacuzzi or simply a private helicopter. If you’re looking for a little extra flair, you won’t go wrong with a luxury liveaboard that boasts a little something extra.

The post Best Luxury Diving Liveaboard Trips (Over $3,000) appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Best Budget Diving Liveaboard Trips (Under $1,500)

Danielle Pacheco — Mon, 09 Oct 2017 03:54:31 +0000

Counting your pennies to spend every free minute in the water? Eager to spend a week diving the world’s best dive sites, but not sure if you can afford it? Here at The Adventure Junkies, we want to help you get diving. Check out this article on the best budget liveaboard trips and start planning!

Whether it’s your first liveaboard or you’re a seasoned pro, you might be surprised to learn that you can get great bang for your buck if you do your research. Because liveaboards are all-inclusive, you might even end up spending less than you would in a hotel.

In this article, we’ll outline what to expect from a budget liveaboard trip and highlight some great deals. You’ll sacrifice some creature comforts on a budget-friendly liveaboard trip, but the group dynamic is hard to beat. At the end of the day, everyone is in the same boat!

For more of our liveaboard recommendations, check out these popular articles:

Caribbean | Bahamas | Belize | Cuba | Turks & Caicos

North Pacific | Galapagos | Guadalupe | Socorro | Cocos

Red Sea & Middle East | Egypt | Sudan | Oman | Djibouti

Indian Ocean | Maldives | Seychelles

QUICK ANSWER – THE BEST BUDGET LIVEABOARD TRIPS

BEST BUDGET LIVEABOARD TRIP REVIEWS

MY CONTESSA MIA – EGYPT

Photo Credit: MY Contessa Mia – Egypt Liveaboard

The MY Contessa Mia is a notch up from other budget liveaboards operating in the Red Sea. Renovated in 2014, this yacht features a bright wooden interior with stylish bedrooms that can accommodate up to 22 divers. All cabins have two twin beds, air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms.

Three meals a day are served buffet-style and feature traditional Egyptian and Arabic cuisine. During downtime, guests can enjoy a drink from the open bar. There is also the option to go fishing or snorkeling!

Wifi and nitrox are free; rental equipment and diving courses are available for a surcharge. Airport transfers are included.

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MSY ELEGANTE – DJIBOUTI / SUDAN

Photo Credit: MSY Elegante – Djibouti or Sudan Liveaboard

A classic schooner renovated in 2009, the MSY Elegante can hold up to 14 divers. Cabins are equipped with bunk beds or double beds and have their own private bathrooms and air-conditioning. Meals are served in the shaded outdoor dining area. Outside, you’ll find a spacious sundeck and an equally decent dive deck.

Different itineraries in Djibouti and Sudan offer plenty of options for shore excursions, such as an excursion to the salt fields at Lac Assal or bird-watching tours at Mesharifa Island. Rental equipment is available for a fee.

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BLACKBEARD SEA EXPLORER & MORNING STAR – BAHAMAS

Photo Credit: Blackbeard Sea Explorer and Blackbeard Morning Star – Bahamas Liveaboard

Ever wanted to meet the pigs at Pig Beach or curl your toes into the sand of a deserted island? Two sister ships, the Blackbeard Sea Explorer and the Blackbeard Morning Star, make it possible to visit the Bahamas without spending your life savings.

Meals are served buffet-style and all beverages are included, including beer, wine and rum punch. Rooms are dorms, with around 20 bunk beds in total. Divers are encouraged to lend a hand as this is a real sailing sloop. The convivial atmosphere makes this a great choice for solo travelers! Rental equipment and dive courses are available.

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EPICA SCUBA REPUBLIC – KOMODO

Photo Credit: Epica -Scuba Republic – Komodo Liveaboard

The Epica – Scuba Republic is a true budget liveaboard, designed for the typical backpacker. Cabins feature bunk beds and the large upper deck is kitted out with a hammock and beanbag chairs. Meals are eaten family-style around the communal table. With a trip on this liveaboard, you’re sure to make friends!

A trip to Komodo wouldn’t be complete without a glimpse of the mystical Komodo dragons, and the Epica – Scuba Republic includes shore excursions for that very purpose. Rental equipment and onboard certifications are also available. This Komodo liveaboard is a steal at less than $1,000 for 6 nights.

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NAUTILUS TWO – MALDIVES

Photo Credit: Nautilus 2 Maldives Liveaboard

At first glance, you might think the Nautilus 2 doesn’t deserve a place on this list. It’s a three-masted ship with a classy outdoor lounge area, a cocktail bar, an enormous salon and even a hot tub! And indeed, some of the prices can be quite steep. But if you book ahead, you’ll find no shortage of itineraries listed at very competitive prices.

The liveaboard has free Wi-Fi and offers island visits to traditional fishing communities. It’s also possible to go swimming, snorkeling or fishing for your own dinner in your downtime. Airport transfers are included and nitrox and rental gear are available.

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SV SEA SHELL & SV SEA PEARL – SEYCHELLES

Photo Credit: SV Sea Shell and the SV Sea Pearl – Seychelles Liveaboard

Two sister ships, the SV Sea Shell and the SV Sea Pearl, bring divers to the glitzy Seychelles for prices that are friendly on the purse strings. You’ll feel like a real sailor in these classic Dutch schooners.

Air-conditioned cabins are provided with either double beds or bunks and there is plenty of space for relaxing inside or outside. Both ships offer snorkeling, kayaking and shore trips to the surrounding islands. Rental equipment is available.

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QUEEN OF THE SEA – RATU LAUT

Photo Credit: Mikumba Ratu Laut – Raja Ampat Liveaboard

If you’re looking for an intimate experience, this is your liveaboard of choice. The Mikumba Ratu Laut is a family-run boat with just 4 cabins, for a total of 12 guests. Bathrooms are shared but with this few people, it shouldn’t be a problem. This is the ideal choice for groups traveling together.

The boat is a traditional Phinisi ship with a rustic interior. After a day of diving, you can snap some pictures of the magical Raja Ampat sunsets from the open area on the top deck or make yourself comfortable in the saloon. Diving equipment is available for rent.

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THE JUNK – SIMILAN ISLANDS

Photo Credit: The Junk – Similan Liveaboard

Divers who sail on The Junk can brag to their friends about having walked in the footsteps of James Bond – this historical merchant vessel was used during the filming of The Man With The Golden Gun!

All the cabins are air-conditioned and have en-suite bathrooms. Copious and frequent meals in this Similan Islands liveaboard are supplemented by snacks, which are available all day.

Between dives, The Junk offers the possibility to go snorkeling or kayaking, as well as shore trips the islands. Nitrox, rental equipment and diving courses are available for a surcharge.

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RED DHOW – OMAN

Photo Credit: Red Dhow – Oman Liveaboard

Explore Oman’s Musandam Peninsula with the Red Dhow, a traditional Arabic vessel with room for 16 divers. The cabins are air-conditioned and have lots of light. Not all cabins have their own bathroom. Common areas are quite roomy and include a sun deck, an indoor lounge and a bar. The Red Dhow also boasts a barbecue.

If you’re still feeling energetic after diving you can go bottom fishing, kayaking, swimming or snorkeling. Onboard certifications and rental equipment are available.

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VISION III – CUBA

Photo Credit: The Vision III – Cuba Liveaboard

The Vision III will bring you to the incredible Caribbean archipelago of Los Canarreos. This modern liveaboard yacht only takes 6 guests at a time, making it an excellent choice for groups or families.

Meals are served buffet-style and snacks are available all day long. Basic drinks are included and soft drinks and alcohol can also be purchased onboard.

The Vision III offers the possibility to go fluo night diving for a surcharge. Rental equipment is available but wetsuits are not available so be sure to bring one with you!

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COMPARISON TABLE – THE BEST BUDGET LIVEABOARD TRIPS

PICTURE	LIVEABOARD	AREA	MAX. DIVERS	NITROX	WIFI
	MY CONTESSA MIA	EGYPT	22	FREE	FREE
	MSY ELEGANTE	DJIBOUTI/SUDAN	14	NO	NO
	BLACKBEARD SEA EXPLORER	BAHAMAS	18	NO	NO
	EPICA - SCUBA REPUBLIC	KOMODO	16	NO	NO
	NAUTILUS 2	MALDIVES	24	AVAILABLE	FREE
	SV SEA SHELL	SEYCHELLES	16	NO	NO
	QUEEN OF THE SEA - RATU LAUT	RAJA AMPAT	12	NO	NO
	THE JUNK	SIMILAN ISLANDS	18	YES	NO
	RED DHOW	OMAN	6	NO	NO
	VISION III	CUBA	8	NO	NO
PICTURE	LIVEABOARD	AREA	MAX. DIVERS	NITROX	WIFI

WHAT TO EXPECT IN A BUDGET LIVEABOARD

COMMUNAL ATMOSPHERE

You get what you pay for. Budget liveaboards won’t have staterooms with marble showers and four-poster beds. Most budget liveaboards have bunk beds, often in shared rooms, and shared bathrooms.

Likewise, meals will usually be served buffet-style, maybe at a communal table. This is also one of the best things about budget travel because it allows you to meet people from all over the world!

In terms of comfort, the décor may be a little outdated, the climate control rudimentary and the cabins a little cramped. Likewise, call upon your sense of adventure and enjoy the trip for what it is – an adventure!

EASILY ACCESSIBLE DESTINATIONS

Generally, the more isolated the location, the steeper the price of the liveaboards. Exotic locations like the Galapagos or Malpelo will have limited choices and serious price tags. This is partly because places like these are harder to get to and often require a longer itinerary. The liveaboards on this list all offer an affordable week of diving.

You may have noticed that this list features liveaboards in the usually pricy Maldives and Seychelles. It is possible to find crazy deals sometimes! As a rule of thumb, you should start looking at itineraries far in advance to get the best deals.

LIMITED PERKS

A budget liveaboard will rarely have perks like photo facilities or hot tubs (and when you find one that does, you should jump on it!). Likewise, extras like nitrox, Wi-Fi, gear rental, alcoholic beverages or an airport transfer will probably come with a surcharge or not at all.

EXTRA FEES

Liveaboards are a fantastic way to explore destinations off the beaten path, and the only way to see some of the more remote places on this planet. Unfortunately, this privilege often comes with a price tag.

Many of the regions are protected marine areas where you’ll need to pay for an entry permit. The cheaper your trip, the less likely it is that the cost of this permit will be included in the price, so be prepared to pay it separately.

Other fees like tourism taxes, harbor fees, airport tax, visas, dive insurance, trip insurance, etc. are also something you should keep in mind when totaling the cost of your trip.

LARGE NUMBER OF DIVERS

One last thing to consider is how many people you’ll be sharing your liveaboard with. This can make a difference to your diving experience as well as your free time.

You’re more likely to share the boat with at least a few dozen guests when you go for a budget liveaboard. However, this list includes several anomalies which offer small group sizes.

The post Best Budget Diving Liveaboard Trips (Under $1,500) appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Liveaboard Diving Guide to South Pacific

Danielle Pacheco — Wed, 20 Sep 2017 11:45:57 +0000

Hundreds of tiny islands and sheltered coral lagoons dot the South Pacific Ocean, creating a hotbed for some of the world’s best diving. From majestic pelagics to colorful reef fish, this fascinating region will live up to your wildest expectations. As an added bonus, a South Pacific liveaboard can bring you to places where hardly anyone has ever ventured before.

Names such as Papua New Guinea conjure images of primitive tribes and uninhabited islands, while Fiji, Palau and the Solomon Islands represent the quintessential tropical paradise. You might not have known it, but this area was very active during World War II and places like Truk Lagoon and French Polynesia now hide hundreds of wrecks in their depths. And, of course, your scuba diving bucket list is not complete until you’ve dived Australia’s Great Barrier Reef!

For more of our liveaboard recommendations, check out these popular articles:

Caribbean | Bahamas | Belize | Cuba | Turks & Caicos

North Pacific | Galapagos | Guadalupe | Socorro | Cocos

Red Sea & Middle East | Egypt | Sudan | Oman | Djibouti

Indian Ocean | Maldives | Seychelles | Visayas | Truk Lagoon

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT

WORLD WAR II WRECKS: The South Pacific was the site of more than one World War II battle, and the war left a plethora of wrecks in its wake that are crawling with marine life.

PELAGICS: Drift divers especially can get their adrenaline pumping with an array of pelagics in Australia, Fiji, French Polynesia and Palau.

REMOTE LOCATIONS: You’ll be one of the only divers at the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, where the dive sites are pristine and untouched.

CORAL REEFS: The Great Barrier Reef is the most famous, but coral reefs in Fiji, the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea are also world-class.

MAP OF THE AREA

WHEN TO GO

JANUARY TO APRIL: This is diving season in Fiji and French Polynesia, with rainy weather and warm water which attract pelagics. It’s also the best time to dive Australia, although the country sees cyclones through April. Truk Lagoon and Palau have their dry season now, and it’s the best time to dive Palau. The Solomon Islands suffer monsoons with rain and wind, while Papua New Guinea’s rainy season is all year long.

MAY TO SEPTEMBER: Visibility in French Polynesia is at its best, although water is cold and choppy and there can be typhoons. Fiji enjoys good visibility and cool water from July onwards. This is the best time to see whales in Australia. The Solomon Islands are slightly cooler, as is Papua New Guinea, where it’s the best time to dive the Bismarck Sea. It’s rainy season in Palau and Truk Lagoon.

OCTOBER TO DECEMBER: This is the start of diving season in French Polynesia, Palau and Fiji. Australia sees cyclones during this time, while the Solomon Islands enjoy warm weather through June. Truk Lagoon continues to be rainy.

All these dive sites can be dived year-round. Water temperature varies little and usually ranges from 75 to 86° F (24 to 30° C).

DESTINATION 1: AUSTRALIA

Photo by istockphoto.com/portfolio/davidevison

Australia is best known for its iconic Great Barrier Reef, which measures an astounding 1,240 miles (2,000 km) and can be seen from outer space. It’s the largest reef system in the world, with 2,900 individual reefs, 400 types of coral and over 1,500 species of fish. With an Australia liveaboard, you can see it for yourself in all its splendor.

Dugongs, porpoises, bumphead parrotfish, Maori wrasse, sharks and 30 species of whales and dolphins co-exist with smaller fish such as angelfish and clownfish. It’s a breeding ground for the threatened green turtle and the humpback whale, and the only place where you’ll see groups of minke whales. Beyond the reef you’ll find shipwrecks, ancient volcanoes, steep coral walls and depths up to 2000m. Sadly, the reef faces a serious threat from climate change.

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: Cairns, Australia

PRICE RANGE: $500 – $2,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – advanced

LENGTH: 2 to 7 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 75 to 86° F (24 to 30° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Great Barrier Reef, planet’s largest living structure and one of the seven natural wonders of the world; most biodiversity of any UNESCO site

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SPOILSPORT

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DESTINATION 2: FIJI ISLANDS

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1,100 miles (1,700km) from the coast of New Zealand lies Fiji, a cluster of 332 volcanic islands with a variety of unique marine life hidden in its crystalline waters. Weird but beautiful sea creatures include blue ribbon eels, endemic twilight fangblennies, leaf scorpionfish and spawning bumphead parrotfish. The country’s colorful dive sites are best reached with a Fiji liveaboard.

Fiji is a dream scuba destination for any level of diver. The underwater landscapes feature coral beds and rocky pinnacles as well as steep walls with strong, nutrient-rich currents that bring lots of pelagics. Beginners can explore calm lagoons with soft corals and exquisite macro life, while more advanced divers will want to check out the drift diving for a glimpse of sharks, manta rays, wahoo and barracudas.

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: Volivoli Beach Resort or Taveuni, Fiji

PRICE RANGE: $3,000 – $5,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – advanced

LENGTH: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 77 to 83° F (25 to 28° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Soft coral capital of the world plus excellent pelagic diving with 7 species of turtles, 12 species of migrating whales and 9 species of sharks

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NAI’A

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DESTINATION 3: FRENCH POLYNESIA

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French Polynesia consists of 100-odd islands located practically in the center of the South Pacific Ocean. The region has 1,250 square miles (2,000 square kilometers) of diverse underwater landscapes ranging from sheltered lagoons to rocky pinnacles and passes with heavy currents. A Fiji liveaboard is by far the best way to explore this idyllic diving paradise.

Best suited to advanced divers, French Polynesia offers the opportunity to go drift diving with schools of sharks and barracudas. The diving here is not limited to pelagics, however, and there are plenty of coral reefs where you’ll be able to see Napoleon wrasse, hawksbill turtles, pygmy seahorses and clownfish. Don’t miss the sunken World War II wrecks, and keep an eye out for manta rays along the sloping coral walls.

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: Rangiroa or Fakarava, French Polynesia

PRICE RANGE: $4,000 – $6,000

DIFFICULTY: Advanced

LENGTH: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 79 to 84° F (26 to 29° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Drift diving with pelagics

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AQUA TIKI II

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DESTINATION 4: PALAU

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Palau is a secluded volcanic archipelago in Micronesia, protected from the ocean by a robust reef system. Coral atolls jut out from sheltered turquoise lagoons; below them, soft corals house a variety of macro life and schools of fish. Further out, strong ocean currents sweep in pelagics by the dozen. Only with a Palau liveaboard can you fully experience everything this amazing region has to offer.

Palau’s underwater geography boasts boulders, caverns, channels and breathtaking blue holes. Past steep drop-offs drift divers will find manta rays, sea turtles and sharks – in fact, this is the site of the world’s first shark sanctuary. Palau is also a mecca for wreck diving, with World War II wrecks of all shapes and sizes. Visibility here can stretch up to 200ft (60m).

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: Malakal or Koror, Palau

PRICE RANGE: $3,000 – $5,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – advanced

LENGTH: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 81 to 86° F (27 to 30° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Challenging drift dives through rocky underwater landscape with drop-offs, channels, caverns and blue holes

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DESTINATION 5: SOLOMON ISLANDS

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The Solomon Islands just east of Papua New Guinea offer spectacular diving at uncrowded dive sites. Over almost 1,000 islands formed over centuries by volcanoes and earthquakes have created an oasis that has remained virtually untouched due to the lack of tourists. A Solomon liveaboard is your ticket to world-class diving off the beaten track.

The country is famous for its historical World War II wrecks, which are teeming with nudibranchs and other macro life. You can also go muck diving to hunt for hidden critters, or swim with turtles, batfish and schools of barracudas, sharks and rays. Weave through one of the many caves and surface under the jungle canopy, or take an exhilarating dive with eels and pygmy seahorses in an underwater lava tube.

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: Honiara, Solomon Islands

PRICE RANGE: $3,000 – $6,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH: 8 to 12 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 84 to 86° F (29 to 30° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Unspoiled dive sites with healthy coral reefs

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DESTINATION 6: PAPUA NEW GUINEA

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The remote country of Papua New Guinea is one of the world’s most mysterious, where the traditional customs of ancient tribes have survived to this day. The secluded nature of the diving here means that the marine life is exceptionally well-preserved. With a Papua New Guinea liveaboard, divers will have the chance to explore areas that nobody has ever dived before!

The undisputed birthplace of muck diving, Papua New Guinea’s waters reveal pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, mimic octopi, wobbegong sharks and rhinopias. Larger pelagics such as manta rays and hammerheads haunt the seamounts and underwater drop-offs, and wreck divers can investigate sunken airplanes from World War II. As part of the Coral Triangle, the region enjoys the highest marine biodiversity in the world.

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: Alotau or Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea

PRICE RANGE: $3,000 – $4,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 82 to 86° F (28 to 30° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Undiscovered dive sites in the Coral Triangle

LIVEABOARD BOATS IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA

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FEBRINA

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DESTINATION 7: MICRONESIA (TRUK LAGOON)

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In February, 1944, the U.S. Navy launched Operation Hailstone, a devastating attack against the Japanese military base at Truk Lagoon in the Caroline Islands. Fast-forward half a century and Truk Lagoon has become one of the world’s premier sites for wreck diving. The best way to discover this underwater graveyard is with a Truk Lagoon liveaboard.

The sheltered coral lagoon is home to more than 60 wreck sites littered with warships and planes as well as medical supplies, ammunition, gas masks and the eerie remains of human skeletons. The debris has since been encrusted with coral and is inhabited by brightly colored fish and macro life. Many of the wrecks lie in shallow waters, but liveaboard operators recommend being certified for tech diving so you can explore the deeper wrecks.

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: Weno, Micronesia

PRICE RANGE: $2,000 – $4,500

DIFFICULTY: advanced

LENGTH: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 81 to 86° F (27 to 30° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Best World War II wreck diving in the world

LIVEABOARD BOATS IN MICRONESIA

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The post Liveaboard Diving Guide to South Pacific appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Liveaboard Diving Guide to the Caribbean

Danielle Pacheco — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 11:54:48 +0000

The Caribbean is renowned for its crystalline turquoise waters and incredible dive sites. A diver’s dream come true, the tropical destination features healthy coral reefs and sunken shipwrecks which are home to a variety of marine life. A Caribbean liveaboard is the best way to discover this wonderland for yourself.

Beginner divers will love the Caribbean, where shallow reefs and simple diving options abound. Experienced divers will be kept busy investigating the fascinating blue holes and cenotes which characterize the region. Regardless of your diving level, you can expect to see all kinds of marine life, from dignified pelagics to intricate macro life. This underwater mecca is a must-see for any diver.

For more of our liveaboard recommendations, check out these popular articles:

Caribbean | Bahamas | Belize | Cuba | Turks & Caicos

North Pacific | Galapagos | Guadalupe | Socorro | Cocos

Red Sea & Middle East | Egypt | Sudan | Oman | Djibouti

Indian Ocean | Maldives | Seychelles | Visayas | Truk Lagoon

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT

EASY DIVING: The Caribbean is the perfect place to take your first forays into liveaboard diving, with plenty of calm, shallow dive sites that are ideal for beginners.

WRECKS: Caribbean waters around the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos and Cayman Islands have claimed innumerable ships and airplanes whose sunken remains are teeming with marine life.

WARM WATER: Balmy temperatures make for comfortable diving all year round.

PELAGICS: This region boasts some of the planet’s best shark diving as well as chances to see manta rays, barracudas, turtles and whales.

MACRO LIFE: Seahorses, nudibranchs and other colorful macro life inhabit the lush coral reefs in the Caribbean.

MAP OF THE AREA

WHEN TO GO

JUNE TO EARLY NOVEMBER: This is hurricane season across the Caribbean and brings a slightly increased rainfall. Summertime plankton blooms can somewhat reduce visibility in Belize, although diving season here usually starts in March with the calm waters. Meanwhile, the water gets a little choppy in Cuba and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

NOVEMBER TO MAY: This is the best time to dive the Bahamas, the Turks and Caicos Islands and Cuba, where the weather is dry and the water is calm.

All of these sites can be dived year-round – you might even want to go in low season if you’re looking for a specific type of marine life. Temperatures remain fairly constant between 74 and 88° F (23 to 31° C).

DESTINATION 1: BAHAMAS

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Just off the coast in between Florida and Cuba, the Bahamas are a convenient choice for North American divers. Over 700 islands make up this spectacular Caribbean archipelago, which boasts coral reefs and some of the world’s best shark diving. With a Bahamas liveaboard, every level of diver can experience the best of this beautiful area.

The Bahamas feature calm waters and multiple shallow shipwrecks and coral reefs, perfect for beginner divers. Advanced divers can go deep diving in tunnels and caves or explore the impressive blue holes. Funky underwater critters include enormous Nassau groupers and Queen conches, as well as loggerhead turtles, manta rays, and seahorses.

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: Nassau, Bahamas

PRICE RANGE: $1,000 – $2,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 74 to 86° F (23 to 30° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Top-notch shark diving, with at least 7 different species

LIVEABOARD BOATS IN BAHAMAS

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BAHAMAS AGGRESSOR

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DESTINATION 2: BELIZE

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A tiny nation just east of Guatemala, Belize is famous for its blue hole, one of the biggest in the world. From shallow sites with mild currents to deep underwater walls, diving in Belize is varied and colorful. A Belize liveaboard will deliver you to unbeatable dive sites in the heart of the Caribbean.

Belize is home to the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere, where reef sharks, clownfish, seahorses and endemic whitespotted toadfish come to play. Apart from the many kinds of sharks, pelagic species include barracudas, manta rays, pods of dolphins and nesting turtles. Lucky divers will catch a glimpse of goliath groupers, which can weigh up to 800 pounds (360 kg).

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: Belize City, Belize

PRICE RANGE: $2,500 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 79 to 86° F (26 to 30° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Huge variety of dive sites for all levels

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DESTINATION 3: TURKS AND CAICOS

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Two clusters of tropical islands southeast of the Bahamas make up the largely uninhabited Turks and Caicos Islands. This archipelago draws less crowds than the popular Bahamas and is a smart alternative, with diving for all levels. Dive sites here can be quite scattered so your best option is a Turks and Caicos liveaboard.

Underwater landscapes in the Turks and Caicos Islands offer stunning barrier reefs, small wrecks, expanses of sand, dramatic drop-offs and winding canyons. Pelagics love this area and you’re sure to see many of them, including hammerheads, eagle rays, barracudas and sometimes humpback whales. Gently waving soft corals and beautiful hard coral formations hide angelfish, reef sharks, moray eels and triggerfish.

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

PRICE RANGE: $2,000 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 75 to 88° F (24 to 31° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Quieter alternative to the Bahamas, with lots of pelagics

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DESTINATION 4: CUBA

Photo by cubandivecenters.com, used through Halcon Liveaboard

The largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba is surrounded by hundreds of uninhabited islets in remote waters. A good percent of these are protected marine areas with a capped number of divers, a system which has done a good job of preserving the reefs and marine life. The most popular dive sites are best visited with a Cuba liveaboard.

Cuba’s marine paradise is thriving with life, from barracudas and turtles to sociable groupers and sharks that love to interact with divers. Blue striped grunts, creole wrasses and other fish inhabit an extensive coral reef system. Juxtaposed against this explosion of color are murky mangroves and an intricate network of underwater caverns and cenotes. Keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of a green moray eel, or venture out at night to dive with the sharks.

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: Jucaro, Cuba

PRICE RANGE: $2,500 – $4,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 77 to 86° F (25 to 30° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Protected marine environments with friendly fish and excellent visibility

LIVEABOARD BOATS IN CUBA

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AVALON I

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DESTINATION 5: CAYMAN ISLANDS

Three majestic peaks poke out from a gigantic underwater ridge in the midst of the Caribbean. These are the Cayman Islands, a long-time favorite with pirates (and, more recently, millionaires with offshore bank accounts!) Big-ticket fish found here include groupers, hammerheads, moray eels and blue parrotfish. A Cayman liveaboard will take you to the best diving the islands have to offer.

Numerous shipwrecks grace these waters, half-hidden under coral reefs which house camouflaged nudibranchs and seahorses. The biodiversity here is staggering, thanks in part to the range of underwater geography which also includes pinnacles and steep drop-offs. Divers can see turtles at the turtle farm and swim next to tame stingrays.

QUICK STATS

WHERE YOU GO FROM: George Town, Cayman Islands

PRICE RANGE: $2,500 to $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURE: 78-82° F (26-28° C)

HIGHLIGHTS: Tame stingrays and turtle farm

LIVEABOARD BOATS IN CAYMAN ISLANDS

CAYMAN AGGRESSOR V

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The post Liveaboard Diving Guide to the Caribbean appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

The 10 Best Liveaboard Destinations To Go Diving in January

Danielle Pacheco — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 23:15:22 +0000

Are you interested in swimming with sharks and manta rays, or are you simply looking for calm and comfortable diving conditions? If you’re planning a liveaboard trip in January, you’re spoiled for choice. This is summertime in the southern hemisphere and many dive sites that lie on or below the Equator are suitable for diving. In this article, we’ll help you narrow down the best liveaboard destinations to go in January.

Warm waters in the South Pacific bring in large marine life, while Southeast Asia during this time is dry and diving conditions are fair, if a little windy. Visibility is generally quite decent in the Pacific Ocean in January. Over in the Red Sea, cooler temperatures attract divers who are keen to avoid the sizzling hot summers.

1. GALÁPAGOS

Made famous after Charles Darwin’s trip here in the 1830s, the Galápagos continue to be a source of inspiration to nature lovers today. The sheer biodiversity above and below the water is staggering. A Galápagos liveaboard will take lucky divers into an underwater world with almost 3000 marine species, roughly 20 percent of which are endemic.

January is a great time of year to see schooling hammerheads and silky sharks as well as manta rays. This is the warm season in the Galápagos and it can get a little wet. However, divers will enjoy calm waters and good visibility. It’s a great time of year to visit unless you are bent on seeing whale sharks.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Puerto Baquerizo Moreno or Santa Cruz, Ecuador

PRICE RANGE: $3,500 – $6,000

DIFFICULTY: Intermediate – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 70 to 80° F (21 to 26° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Galápagos liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Schooling hammerhead and silky sharks along with 3000 marine species

2. PALAU

The site of the world’s first shark sanctuary, Palau is an idyllic archipelago surrounded by pristine coral reefs. The jumble of wrecks, caves and blue holes is home to everything from colorful reef fish to huge pelagics. With a Palau liveaboard, any level of diver will have access to remote and unspoiled dive sites.

Since there is little variation in the critters you’ll see at different times of the year, Palau’s dry season is a pleasant time to dive. A 3mm wetsuit will keep you nice and comfortable in the balmy water, which hovers between 81 to 86°F (27 to 30°C). Whatever time of year you visit, you’ll be impressed by the visibility which can stretch up to 200ft (60m) in some places.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Malakal or Koror, Palau

PRICE RANGE: $3,000 – $5,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 81 to 86° F (27 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Palau liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Incredible visibility and diving for all levels, including drift diving

3. PAPUA NEW GUINEA

If you’re in search of exclusivity, you can’t do much better than Papua New Guinea. Many of the dive sites in this region of the Coral Triangle are still unexplored.

A Papua New Guinea liveaboard will take you to secluded dive sites with thriving marine life including mantas, sharks and macro life. Don’t forget to brush up on your photography skills before you go!

The sites that lay in the South Pacific and the Coral Sea are best dived in January. Conditions are perfect, with warm water and decent visibility. It rains all year in Papua New Guinea but on the bright side, January falls right in the middle of the warm season.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Alotau or Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea

PRICE RANGE: $3,000 – $4,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 82 to 86° F (28 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Papua New Guinea liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: World War II wrecks and birthplace of muck diving

4. CUBA

This popular Caribbean destination features several protected marine environments, which have gone a long way toward ensuring the integrity of the dive sites. A Cuba liveaboard will take you into a lively underwater world where friendly fish swim along immaculate coral reefs.

Cuba can be dived all year round and the big-ticket items, such as sharks and crocodiles, will always be there. But the nicest time to dive is during the dry season, which boasts warm waters between 79 and 84° F (26 and 29° C) and little current. Visibility during this time reaches over 100ft (30m).

WHERE TO GO FROM: Jucaro, Cuba

PRICE RANGE: $2,500 – $4,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 79 to 84° F (26 to 29° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Cuba liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Friendly sharks and groupers, healthy coral reefs

5. OMAN

Oman is mostly known for its spectacular macro life, easily accessible by beginner divers. If you’re lucky, you might glimpse a whale shark or a hawksbill turtle.

The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) recently voted this up-and-coming country as one of the top places for winter diving. Only with an Oman liveaboard can you visit the best sites in protected marine environments.

The cooler season in January is the best time for glimpsing whale sharks and a variety of other marine life in Oman. Temperatures are pleasant, with waters at 77°F (25 °C), and divers can take advantage of the relatively small window when the Daymaniyat Islands are open. The visibility is comparatively good but still doesn’t surpass 25m due to the plankton and nutrients which draw the fish.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Dibba or Port of Salalah, Oman

PRICE RANGE: $1,500 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 68 to 77° F (20 to 25° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Oman liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Quiet dive sites away from the crowds

6. SIMILAN ISLANDS

Peer into the coral at the Similan Islands and you’ll lock eyes with octopus, moray eels and a host of other reef fish. Some of the islands are closed for months at a time in an effort to preserve the marine environment. But divers who manage to book a Similan liveaboard will love the stunning underwater landscapes and crystal-clear waters surrounding these nine idyllic islands off the coast of Thailand.

Winter in the Similan Islands is pleasantly cool, going from 77 up to 84° F (25 to 29° C). Earlier on, you might run across some wind and waves but by the middle of January, weather is good and boasts the least cloud cover of the whole year. The waters around the Similan Islands are known for having excellent visibility.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Khao Lak, Thailand

PRICE RANGE: $1,000 – $2,500

DIFFICULTY: Intermediate

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 5 to 7 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 77 to 84° F (25 to 29° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Similan Islands liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Manta rays, whale sharks and huge schools of fish

7. PHILIPPINES

The Philippines offers something for everybody, from shallow reef dives to deep wrecks and night diving. January is a good month to spot seahorses and manta rays in addition to the dolphins and the many species of sharks that are there year-round. The best sites are only reachable with a Philippines liveaboard.

In January, the Philippines experiences dry weather and a break from the country’s infamous typhoons. The northeast monsoon brings fierce winds, cooler waters and air temperatures around 28° C. Keeping in mind this is high season, you shouldn’t be surprised to find crowded dive sites and higher prices. Unfortunately, Tubbataha Reef is closed this month.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Cebu or Palau (Malkal), Philippines

PRICE RANGE: $2,000 – 3,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 73 to 81° F (23 to 27° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Tubbataha liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Amazing marine biodiversity in the heart of the Coral Triangle

8. MALDIVES

The Maldives is iconic, a tropical paradise comprising 1000 islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Divers come here to see a long list of pelagics including whale sharks, mantas and schools of barracudas. A Maldives liveaboard gives you the option of going on exhilarating drift dives through the currents or simply cruising for macro life along the coral reefs.

January sees the start of dry monsoons in the Maldives. This is a good time of year for pelagic action, when plankton-rich waters bring in whale sharks and manta rays. Water temperatures vary little throughout the year, usually measuring between 80 to 86° F (27 to 30° C).

WHERE TO GO FROM: Malé, Maldives

PRICE RANGE: $1,500 – $2,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 80 to 86° F (27 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Maldives liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Drift diving with sharks and manta rays

9. SOCORRO

The Revillagigedo Archipelago, often referred to as Socorro, is a cluster of volcanic islands off the coast of Baja California. Thanks to the strong currents, waters around the uninhabited islands are teeming with pelagic species including dolphins, whales and turtles. A Socorro liveaboard is the best way to experience the area’s challenging dive sites, for which you’ll probably want your Advanced Open Water certification.

January in Socorro offers a range of marine life depending on what part of the month you go. In the warmer beginning of the month, you’ll be swimming with sharks and mantas, whereas by the end, you might be able to spot the first few migrating humpback whales.

Water temperatures can descend to 70° F (21° C) in late January but the water is calmer and visibility is better than in December. This is high season in Mexico so be prepared to pay premium prices.

WHERE TO GO FROM: San Jose del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

PRICE RANGE: $3,000 – $4,000

DIFFICULTY: Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 10 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 70 to 79° F (21 to 26° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Socorro liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Friendly manta rays and active volcanic seascape

10. DJIBOUTI

For untouched dive sites and lively pelagic life, look no further than Djibouti. This tiny country nestled at the southern end of the Red Sea gives access to rocky volcanic seascapes with a variety of pelagics and other fish. With a Djibouti liveaboard, you’ll have the plenitude of marine life practically to yourself.

Despite the inferior visibility, most divers head to Djibouti between October and January to avoid the hot season. Divers in January can catch a glimpse of the last whale sharks on their annual migration. This is also a good time of year to see manta rays.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Djibouti Marina, Djibouti

PRICE RANGE: $1,500 – $2,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 79 to 84° F (26 to 29° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Djibouti liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Migrating whale sharks

The post The 10 Best Liveaboard Destinations To Go Diving in January appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

The 10 Best Liveaboard Destinations To Go Diving in February

Danielle Pacheco — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 02:08:13 +0000

Are you in search of the best liveaboard destinations to go in February? This is a fantastic time of year to go diving in much of the Southern Hemisphere. But before you go, you’ll want to know which places have the best conditions and most interesting marine life.

Here at The Adventure Junkies, we can help you narrow down your choices so you can plan the perfect scuba diving trip!

February is the dry season in much of the Caribbean and Southeast Asia. The Galápagos and Cuba enjoy good visibility, while the hot and rainy season in Australia and Fiji is a great time to dive with whale sharks and great whites. Head towards the Turks and Caicos Islands if you’re in search of humpback whales.

1. AUSTRALIA

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, with almost 3000 individual reefs and every kind of fish you could ever imagine. But Australia’s not just about the Great Barrier Reef – you can cage dive with white sharks off the coast of South Australia, or go cave diving and drift diving in the west. Start exploring with an Australia liveaboard!

Summer in Australia has the best visibility and balmy waters, good conditions for reef diving. February is cyclone season in the northern states but offers a chance for wreck diving and cage diving with great white sharks in Southern Australia. Weather conditions off Queensland can be hot and rainy and water temperatures reach 85° F (30° C), dropping to 68° F (20° C) further south in New South Wales.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Cairns, Australia

PRICE RANGE: $500 – $2,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 2 to 7 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 68 to 86˚F (20 to 30˚C)

BEST BOATS: Best Australia liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Cage diving with great whites and the world’s largest coral reef system

2. FIJI

The volcanic archipelago of Fiji is home to a unique assortment of marine life including several dozen endemic species and a generous dose of pelagics.

Between the shallow lagoons and the exhilarating drift diving, there is diving here for every level. The country is taking steps to protect its marine environment and with a Fiji liveaboard, you’ll have access to some of the world’s best diving.

February is summer and the rainy season in Fiji. During this time, the warm, plankton-rich waters attract whales, whale sharks and manta rays. This also results in reduced visibility, a small price to pay for the calm waters and incredible pelagic life. It also happens to be low season in Fiji, so be on the lookout for great deals.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Volivoli Beach Resort or Taveuni, Fiji

PRICE RANGE: $3,000 – $5,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 82 to 86°F (28 to 30°C)

BEST BOATS: Best Fiji liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Turtles, whales and sharks as well as beautiful soft corals

3. GALÁPAGOS

The Galápagos Islands are an isolated archipelago situated at the convergence of three ocean currents. Chock-full of rare and endemic marine species, the islands are famous for being the place that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution almost 200 years ago. Discover this spectacular underwater world with a Galapágos liveaboard trip!

The Galápagos are a hotspot for shark tourism and you can expect to see schooling hammerheads as well as other species during the warm season. Calm waters and great visibility make up for the slightly increased rainfall.

Water temperatures range from 70 to 80° F (21 to 26° C), although the Galápagos can be subject to thermoclines. Beginner divers should be aware that many sites in the Galápagos are known for their currents and surges.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Puerto Baquerizo Moreno or Santa Cruz, Ecuador

PRICE RANGE: $3,500 – $6,000

DIFFICULTY: Intermediate – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 70 to 80° F (21 to 26° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Galápagos liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Amazing biodiversity that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution

4. TURKS AND CAICOS

The Turks and Caicos Islands are the perfect choices for anybody interested in diving off the beaten track. The diving is easy, with splendid underwater landscapes, lively coral reefs and pelagics such as barracudas, sharks and eagle rays.

Rumor has it there are even wrecks from the time of Christopher Columbus! Whatever your taste, you’re sure to find it with a Turks and Caicos liveaboard.

Water temperatures are pleasantly cool in the dry season in the Turks and Caicos, and you can generally expect visibility between 50-100ft (15-30m) when traveling by liveaboard. Lucky divers will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the migrating humpback whales that pass through the area between January and March.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

PRICE RANGE: $2,000 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 73 to 79°F (23 to 26°C)

BEST BOATS: Best Turks and Caicos liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Good variety of dive sites in uncrowded waters

5. CUBA

Located in the heart of the Caribbean, the dynamic country of Cuba is no less colorful below the water. With a Cuba liveaboard, you’ll have access to protected marine areas which boast healthy coral reefs, mangroves and underwater caves. You might even be so lucky as to swim with a crocodile or two!

The dry season in Cuba enjoys calm, warm waters with incredible visibility reaching over 100ft (30m). Outside of hurricane season, February is a great month to visit. Night dives offer the chance to swim with sharks and see another side of Cuba’s underwater world.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Jucaro, Cuba

PRICE RANGE: $2,500 – $4,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 79 F to 84° F (26 to 29° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Cuba liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Friendly fish and night diving with sharks

6. RAJA AMPAT

The archipelago of Raja Ampat is located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, which is known for having the world’s highest marine biodiversity.

Macro lovers will be delighted with the many creatures found in the coral reefs, while those that favor larger marine life will be kept busy watching the pelagics. A Raja Ampat liveaboard will give you access to the best dive sites among these uninhabited islands.

Raja Ampat experiences calm seas, dry weather and a reprieve from the summer winds in February. Since the islands lie on the equator, water temperatures are fairly constant throughout the year at around 28° to 29° C.

The plankton swells that attract pelagic life may have a negative impact on visibility. Although many of the dive sites are suitable for beginners, divers should be aware that waters in Raja Ampat are susceptible to currents.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Sorong, Indonesia

PRICE RANGE: $4,000 – $5,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Intermediate

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 81 to 86° F (27 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Raja Ampat liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Deep diving, drift diving and macro life

7. PHILIPPINES

Best known for its macro life, the Philippines is a great place to see gems such as pygmy seahorses and mantis shrimp. But if you thought the Philippines was a one-trick pony, you definitely need to think again.

Night diving, cave diving, wreck diving, deep diving and muck diving are all on offer here, making a Philippines liveaboard trip the ideal time to get your advanced diver certification.

Tubbataha Reef is closed during this time. Elsewhere in the Philippines, it’s the northeast monsoon season, which brings dry, windy weather and a relief from typhoons.

Water temperatures tend toward 80° F (27° C). Visibility in the Philippines is greatly variable depending on the dive site. February is a good time for seeing sharks, rays and seahorses.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Cebu or Palau (Malkal), Philippines

PRICE RANGE: $2,000 – 3,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 73 to 81° F (23 to 27° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Tubbataha liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Variety of dive sites for all levels

8. INDIA

Diving in India is centered around the Andaman Islands, a remote tropical archipelago with an abundance of protected marine areas. Closed to tourism for 50 years, an India liveaboard will take you to a diving mecca with immaculate coral reefs, ancient shipwrecks, manta ray cleaning stations and pinnacles bustling with pelagic life.

Outside of the monsoon season, India experiences dry weather and a reprieve from the wind. Waters are tropical, with temperatures staying fairly constant year-round.

Keep an eye out for manta rays and dugongs in February. This is a good time to dive not only the Andaman Islands but also Goa and Pondicherry.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Port Blair, India

PRICE RANGE: Upon request

DIFFICULTY: Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 9 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 82 to 87° F (28 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best India liveaboard diving

HIGHLIGHTS: Eerie volcanic seascapes with healthy marine life in protected marine areas

9. MALDIVES

The Maldives is a tropical paradise consisting of 1000 islands spread out across the equator in the Indian Ocean. With a Maldives liveaboard trip, you’ll have the opportunity to drift dive with whale sharks and manta rays. Beginner divers need not worry, as there are plenty of shallow reef dives featuring turtles, eels and schooling fish.

Dry monsoon season in the Maldives brings calm waters and plankton swells which attract whale sharks and manta rays. If you’re after good visibility, you’ll do better on the eastern side of the country.

Water temperatures don’t vary much, hovering between 83 to 86° F (28 to 30° C) year-round. This time of year in the southern Maldives sometimes sees water dip to 75° F (24° C).

WHERE TO GO FROM: Malé, Maldives

PRICE RANGE: $1,500 – $2,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 75 to 86° F (24 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Maldives liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Drift diving with sharks and manta rays

10. TRUK LAGOON

Truk Lagoon is a peaceful lagoon in Micronesia, protected from the ocean by a barrier reef system. But venture beneath these idyllic turquoise waters and you’ll see another story unfold: dozens of shipwrecks, airplanes and other debris left to sink after a bloody World War II battle in 1944.

A Truk Lagoon liveaboard will take you to dive sites in what is widely regarded as the best place in the world for wreck diving (check out some other great places for wreck diving if you’re interested!).

Thanks to its sheltered position, the dive sites within Truk Lagoon enjoys fairly calm conditions and warm waters all year round. February is the dry season at Truk Lagoon, with excellent visibility ranging between 30-100ft (10-35m). Divers in search of a challenge can try drift diving past the outer drop-offs.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Weno, Micronesia

PRICE RANGE: $2,000 – $4,500

DIFFICULTY: Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 81 to 86° F (27 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Truk Lagoon liveaboard diving

HIGHLIGHTS: Dozens of wreck dives including warships, airplanes and other debris from World War II

The post The 10 Best Liveaboard Destinations To Go Diving in February appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

The 10 Best Liveaboard Destinations To Go Diving in March

Danielle Pacheco — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 11:42:36 +0000

Are you planning a dive trip this March? It can be hard to figure out which destinations are the best to visit during a specific time of year. Here at The Adventure Junkies, we want to make your job easier. We’ve prepared this handy guide on the best liveaboard destinations to go in March, so you can spend more time on the fun stuff!

March is the dry season across the Caribbean, and diving is generally good in most areas here. Conditions are also at their best in the Red Sea and the Middle East, where the shoulder season brings pleasant temperatures and good marine conditions. Across the Pacific Ocean, conditions vary but Fiji sees lots of pelagics while Palau and Truk Lagoon enjoy comfortable conditions. March in Burma is the best time for seeing manta rays and migrating whale sharks.

1. FIJI

With over 300 remote volcanic islands, Fiji offers superb diving for all skill levels. Beginners will appreciate the amazing visibility in Fiji’s protected lagoons, with beds of soft corals and sea fans.

Advanced divers can go drift diving in the strong currents, past pinnacles and walls with sharks, rays and barracudas. Whatever your level, a Fiji liveaboard is the way to go.

Fiji’s summers are hot and rainy, with reduced visibility because of the plankton swells. On the bright side, the plankton brings in plenty of big-ticket items such as whales and manta rays. A thin wetsuit is all you’ll need in these balmy waters.

March is the low season so look for deals on liveaboards. Fiji’s underwater environment is the focus of conservation efforts by a non-profit organization. Hopefully, this means many more years of great diving!

WHERE TO GO FROM: Volivoli Beach Resort or Taveuni, Fiji

PRICE RANGE: $3,000 – $5,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 82 to 86°F (28 to 30°C)

BEST BOATS: Best Fiji liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Variety of diving for all levels

2. PALAU

The twisting, turning underwater geography in Palau is home to mini-blue holes and caverns that you’ll want to explore for hours on end. Other popular dives include World War II wreck diving and more challenging dives that require reef hooks for the strong currents. Some sites boast visibility up to 200ft (60m). With a Palau liveaboard, you can see it all!

Palau’s diving scene is good all year, with consistently clear, warm waters. March falls during the dry season, which also enjoys calmer waters and is, therefore, a popular choice for divers.

The marine life varies little throughout the year. Although water temperatures also vary little, March can be on the cooler side. Palau is an emerging tourism hotspot – book your trip soon for the most authentic experience!

WHERE TO GO FROM: Malakal or Koror, Palau

PRICE RANGE: $3,000 – $5,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 81 to 86° F (27 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Palau liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Fascinating underwater landscape with caverns and blue holes

3. TRUK LAGOON

This protected lagoon in Micronesia has a bloody past as the site of an epic battle between the US and the Japanese in World War II. A Truk Lagoon liveaboard will take you to a massive underwater graveyard where dozens of sunken ships and airplanes spread over 50 dive sites are home to sharks, turtles and hundreds of schooling fish.

It’s handy to have your deep diving, wreck diving, cave diving or at least advanced diver’s certification before you visit Truk Lagoon. March is the dry season and waters should be fairly calm, although check the forecast for typhoons before you go. Since the lagoon is so sheltered, water temperatures are always pleasant and visibility is decent, if sometimes a little clouded around the wrecks.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Weno, Micronesia

PRICE RANGE: $2,000 – $4,500

DIFFICULTY: Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 81 to 86° F (27 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Truk Lagoon liveaboard boats

HIGHLIGHTS: Wreck diving the debris from Operation Hailstone, major battle in World War II

4. TURKS AND CAICOS

The Turks and Caicos Islands are located in the paradisiacal Caribbean, southeast of the Bahamas. Steep underwater drop-offs plunge down 6000ft (2000m) to the ocean floor, the perfect place to find sharks, mantas, turtles, dolphins and schools of pelagic fish.

Lucky divers will even see migrating humpbacks or barracudas. Beginner divers can dive small wrecks and soft corals. A Turks and Caicos liveaboard is sure to be an incredible trip.

Although the Turks and Caicos can be dived year-round, the summer brings a risk of hurricanes and many people prefer to dive in the dry season, when waters are at their calmest. Water temperatures during this season usually hover between 73-79°F (23-26°C), although this varies depending on the island.

Visibility is not stellar but can stretch up to 100ft (30m) at the more isolated spots. From January to March, divers have the chance to spot migrating humpback whales.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

PRICE RANGE: $2,000 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 73 to 79°F (23 to 26°C)

BEST BOATS: Best Turks and Caicos liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Breathtaking drop-offs with reams of pelagics

5. CUBA

Cuba is famous for its friendly sharks and groupers, who like to play with the scuba divers that visit this tropical diving mecca. Protected marine areas promise untouched dive sites with healthy coral reefs and a multitude of fish. The best sites only allow a limited number of divers and are exclusively accessible with a Cuba liveaboard.

March is also the dry season over in Cuba, where divers will enjoy warm water and barely any current. The visibility is excellent, reaching between 100-130ft (30-40m). Keep an eye out for crocodiles, and get used to swimming with sharks. There is no shortage of them here!

WHERE TO GO FROM: Jucaro, Cuba

PRICE RANGE: $2,500 – $4,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 79 to 84 °F (26 to 29 °C)

BEST BOATS: Best Cuba liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Protected marine environments with friendly fish and excellent visibility

6. CAYMAN ISLANDS

A Cayman Islands liveaboard offers a wealth of diving opportunities, from wreck diving to deep diving and tec diving. Divers will swim with hammerheads, groupers and tame stingrays.

Meanwhile, the coral reefs are teeming with colorful fish and macro life, and you just might see a moray eel poking its head out. Check out our tips on underwater photography to get the best shots!

Outside the summer hurricane season, weather in the Cayman Islands is slightly cooler and drier. However, water temperatures don’t change much throughout the year, hovering between 78 and 82° F (26 and 28° C). Visibility is usually at least 60ft (18m) and can stretch up to 100ft (30m) in some places.

WHERE TO GO FROM: George Town, Cayman Islands

PRICE RANGE: $2,500 to $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 78 to 82° F (26 to 28° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Cayman Islands liveaboard boats

HIGHLIGHTS: “Stingray City,” shallow beginner-friendly dive site with friendly stingrays

7. BURMA

Burma is best known for the Mergui archipelago, a string of more than 800 islands scattered throughout the Andaman Sea. Relatively new on the diving scene, many dive sites have still not been fully explored. With a Burma liveaboard, you can be the first to discover what lies out in the open ocean beyond the colossal underwater mountains.

March lies outside of the monsoon season and divers can expect dry weather and calm water. Visibility in the uncrowded waters ranges from 80 to 90ft (25 to 30m).

During the plankton blooms, which occur from February to April, divers will have the chance to see manta rays and the whale sharks who come for the cleaning stations. Burma is more accessible every day and it’s a great destination to visit before it becomes more popular.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Ranong, Thailand

PRICE RANGE: $1,000 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 6 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 80 to 86° F (27 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Burma liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Stunning underwater mountains and unexplored territory

8. OMAN

On the tip of the Arabian Peninsula bordering the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, Oman boasts of several protected marine areas. The fantastic diving here is a well-kept secret.

With an Oman liveaboard, you’ll be swimming with impressive schools of fish over pristine coral reefs. Many dive sites are shallow and great for beginners, but advanced divers have the option of investigating caves or deeper wrecks.

It may fall slightly outside of the recommended diving season, but March is one of the best months to visit Oman if you’re interested in seeing nesting endangered hawksbill turtles. The mild currents that arrive in the winter months have usually petered off by March, leaving behind tranquil, calm waters. Oman is working hard to preserve its natural beauty and it’s also possible to join a citizen science liveaboard with a focus on marine conservation.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Dibba or Port of Salalah, Oman

PRICE RANGE: $1,500 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 73 to 79° F (23 to 26° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Oman liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Nesting endangered hawksbill turtles

9. EGYPT

Egypt is the scuba gateway to the Red Sea, one of the world’s top wreck diving destinations. Aside from famous wrecks like the SS Thistlegorm, there is a plethora of marine life on display.

There are hundreds of species of fish, many of them endemic, as well as dolphins, manatees, sharks and turtles. The best way to discover the Red Sea is with an Egypt liveaboard

March marks the beginning of the spring diving season in Egypt, when there is a nice balance between weather conditions and marine life. Divers in the northern end of the Red Sea may spot whale sharks.

This is the high season so be prepared for crowds and consider booking ahead for the best prices. Many Egypt liveaboards will ask divers to be certified in advanced, tec or wreck diving, but Egypt is also a great place to complete these certifications onboard if that’s an option with your liveaboard operator.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Hurghada or Port Ghalib, Egypt

PRICE RANGE: $1,000 – $2,000

DIFFICULTY: Intermediate – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 75 to 81° F (24 to 27° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Egypt liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Some of the best wreck diving in the world

10. SUDAN

For divers who have already dived everything Egypt has to offer, or if you’re simply looking for a more exclusive experience, Sudan is for you. This wilder part of the Red Sea draws significantly fewer crowds and as a result, the marine life is thriving. Due to the limited diving infrastructure, diving in this up-and-coming destination is easiest with a Sudan liveaboard.

Like Egypt, Sudan is best dived during the shoulder seasons. In March, weather is not too cold nor too hot, and diving conditions are at their best. Visibility is better in the north, as the south suffers not only from plankton blooms but also from desert storms. The north is also better for wreck diving and for finding barracudas, sharks and manta rays.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Port Sudan, Sudan

PRICE RANGE: $1,000 – $2,500

DIFFICULTY: Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 15 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 75 to 81° F (24 to 27° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Sudan liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Wreck diving in uncrowded waters and the remains of Jacques Cousteau’s Conshelf II

The post The 10 Best Liveaboard Destinations To Go Diving in March appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

The 10 Best Liveaboard Destinations To Go Diving in April

Danielle Pacheco — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 12:20:13 +0000

April is shoulder season in much of the diving world, boasting fabulous conditions and exciting marine life. Here at The Adventure Junkies, we want to help you find the best liveaboard destinations to go in April. In this article, we’ve laid out 10 perfect scuba destinations for this time of year.

Southeast Asia and the Caribbean enjoy dry weather and tons of sharks in April. The end of the summer and rainy season in the South Pacific brings plankton blooms which attract manta rays and whale sharks. It’s a peaceful time to dive the Seychelles, where conditions are calm and visibility is endless. Oman is starting to get hot, but lucky divers will have the chance to see nesting hawksbill turtles. Happy diving!

1. BELIZE

The underwater geography at Belize is one of a kind. Steep walls and one of the world’s most expansive barrier reef systems are home to a colorful jumble of reef fish and macro life.

Nearby, the infamous blue hole awaits divers brave enough to venture near it. Not to be forgotten, pelagics such as sharks, barracudas and dolphins play in the open water. With a Belize liveaboard, you can see it all.

March falls during the dry and cool season in Belize, when divers will enjoy amazing visibility up to 130ft (40m). Visibility can sometimes be affected by the plankton blooms, but this tends to happen more into the summer.

April falls during the cool season and is the beginning of the whale shark season in Belize. Since this is such a popular time to dive, it’s wise to check for deals as early as possible to avoid paying top dollar.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Belize City, Belize

PRICE RANGE: $2,500 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 79 to 82° F (26 to 28° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Belize liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Diving with whale sharks

2. FRENCH POLYNESIA

A cluster of over 100 islands in the middle of the South Pacific, French Polynesia is an advanced diver’s mecca. You can dive everything from protected lagoons to colorful coral reefs to wrecks, but the real draw is drift diving with manta rays, schooling sharks and barracudas. A French Polynesia liveaboard will open up your world to endless diving possibilities!

April is summertime in French Polynesia and comes on the tail end of the rainy season. The plankton-rich waters attract big fish such as manta rays. Meanwhile, the calm surface conditions make it the ideal month for diving.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Rangiroa or Fakarava, French Polynesia

PRICE RANGE: $4,000 – $6,000

DIFFICULTY: Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 79 to 84°F (26 to 28°C)

BEST BOATS: Best French Polynesia liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Calm conditions and good time for manta rays

3. BAHAMAS

The Bahamas are iconic for their scuba diving sites, and it’s no wonder. This Caribbean archipelago comprises 700 islands which boast wrecks, reefs and caves teeming with marine life.

Many of the wrecks are shallow and there is good diving here for every level. Since many of the islands are uninhabited, the way to make the most of your trip is with a Bahamas liveaboard.

This is shark season in the Bahamas and you can expect to see oceanic whitetip sharks starting in April. This hot month sees little rain and falls outside hurricane season, meaning it’s high season and a very popular time to visit. Once again, it’s best to book early if you can.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Nassau, Bahamas

PRICE RANGE: $1,000 – $2,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C)

BEST BOATS: Best Bahamas liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Shark season with several different species including oceanic whitetips

4. TURKS AND CAICOS

Less popular than the Bahamas are the equally stellar Turks and Caicos Islands, situated just to the south. Impressive barrier reefs give way to steep coral walls swimming with eagle rays and hammerhead sharks. Since the dive sites are located at some distance from each other, the best way to dive the region is with a Turks and Caicos liveaboard.

The dry season from November to May is the best time to dive the Turks and Caicos Islands as there is a lower risk of hurricanes. Water temperatures and visibility depend on which island you’re diving, but temperatures generally hover between 73-79° F (23-26° C) in April.

April is low season, so keep an eye out for deals.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

PRICE RANGE: $2,000 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 73 to 79° F (23 to 26° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Turks and Caicos liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Great pelagic diving and extensive reef system

5. KOMODO

Komodo is found in the midst of the Coral Triangle, the most biodiverse marine region in the world. Here you’ll find dugongs, turtles, dolphins and plenty of reef fish. Sharks and manta rays are also common sightings. The most logical choice for exploring this vast area is with a Komodo liveaboard.

April is the best month to visit Komodo Island. Just after the rainy season, Komodo enjoys cool, dry weather and calm waters starting in April. You’ll also see the most pelagics in April. Consequently, this is the first month of the period when the most liveaboards are operating in the region, making it the perfect month to visit.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Labuan Bajo, Indonesia

PRICE RANGE: $1,500 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 3 to 7 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 68 to 82° F (20 to 28° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Komodo liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Large variety of marine species in the Coral Triangle; best time for pelagics

6. PHILIPPINES

The Philippines are also located in the Coral Triangle and these islands are home to over 1000 species of fish, macro life and pelagics. The country is especially known for its macro life but sites, such as Tubbataha Reef, also have excellent shark diving.

Night diving and wreck diving offer some variety for more advanced divers. Many sites are only accessible with a Philippines liveaboard.

April wraps up the diving season in the Philippines, since May signals the start of typhoon season. April generally offers calm, dry conditions, and is a good time to glimpse whale sharks.

Tubbataha Reef opens between March and June and is closed the rest of the year. Visibility in the Philippines depends on the location and can be anywhere from 15 to 100ft (5 to 30m).

WHERE TO GO FROM: Cebu, Puerto Princesa or Palau (Malkal), Philippines

PRICE RANGE: $2,000 – 3,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 81 to 84° F (27 to 29° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Philippines liveaboard boats

HIGHLIGHTS: Varied diving including macro, night and wreck diving

7. SEYCHELLES

Advanced divers can swim with sharks, sea turtles and manta rays at the outer reefs, which are packed with caverns and impressive drop-offs. Meanwhile, beginners can coast around the inner reefs and drink in the sights which include massive sea fans and eerie shipwrecks. From the amazing Aldabra atoll to the islands’ characteristic black granite, a Seychelles liveaboard offers something for everybody.

The shoulder season is the best time to dive the Seychelles, when surface conditions are calm and visibility is fantastic. April can get quite humid; water is at its warmest although the air temperature doesn’t change much from month to month. Before you go, check the forecast for the island you plan to visit, as wind and currents can vary depending on location.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Mahé (Port Victoria) or Praslin (Anse Possesion), Seychelles

PRICE RANGE: $1,000 – $2,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 79 to 86° F (26 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Seychelles liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Unique black granite formations which contrast stunningly with colorful marine life

8. OMAN

Located on the tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman boasts two protected marine areas with healthy marine life and uncrowded dive sites. Not yet a major destination, Oman is perfect for beginner divers looking for a relaxing way to get acquainted with the sport. Of course, an Oman liveaboard will more than live up to anyone’s expectations, with chances to see macro life and schooling fish.

Diving season in Oman is generally seen as ending in February and by April, air temperatures are starting to verge on the uncomfortably warm. The water is a pleasant temperature but can get chilly thanks to thermoclines.

If you’re a fan of nesting hawksbill sea turtles, you’ll see them arrive in Oman from March all the way through June. April is also the last month to dive the Daymaniyat Islands before their annual closure during the hot season from May to October.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Dibba or Port of Salalah, Oman

PRICE RANGE: $1,500 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Beginner

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 7 to 8 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 77 to 84° F (25 to 29° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Oman liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Chance to see endangered hawksbill turtles during their nesting period

9. FIJI

Whether you’re after pelagics or exquisite macro life, you’re sure to encounter it in Fiji. Over 300 volcanic islands in the South Pacific harbor the world’s best soft corals as well as a hodgepodge of wacky marine species.

A Fiji liveaboard can bring you to undiscovered dive sites. You’ll soon find out why this country places near the top on many diving lists!

Fiji’s optimal dive season runs until April. The end of the summer brings rain and calm, warm water between 82 to 86°F (28 to 30°C).

Visibility is not great but this is a small sacrifice to pay for plankton blooms which draw whale sharks and manta rays. Ironically, you’ll also find the best deals during this time, since this is low season elsewhere in Fiji.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Volivoli Beach Resort or Taveuni, Fiji

PRICE RANGE: $3,000 – $5,500

DIFFICULTY: Beginner – Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 8 to 11 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 82 to 86°F (28 to 30°C)

BEST BOATS: Best Fiji liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Wide variety of dive sites including soft corals, rare marine species and tons of pelagics

10. BURMA

The Mergui Archipelago in Burma only started allowing divers to visit in 1997, so these 800 islands are still ripe for exploration. This is also a marine protected area, with plenty of rare macro life and no shortage of bigger fish.

Towering drop-offs complete the picture, providing the perfect environment for sharks and other pelagics. Don’t miss your chance to book a Burma liveaboard while this place is still undiscovered!

The only time to dive with a Burma liveaboard is between October and May, and the best time to dive the Mergui Archipelago is between December and April. Water is generally calm, the weather dry and the visibility decent during this time. During plankton swells, divers will have the chance to spot manta rays and whale sharks in exchange for poor visibility.

WHERE TO GO FROM: Ranong, Thailand

PRICE RANGE: $1,000 – $3,000

DIFFICULTY: Advanced

LENGTH OF THE TRIP: 6 days

WATER TEMPERATURES: 80 to 86° F (27 to 30° C)

BEST BOATS: Best Burma liveaboard boats compared

HIGHLIGHTS: Chance to dive in places no one has ever dived before!

The post The 10 Best Liveaboard Destinations To Go Diving in April appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Danielle Pacheco, Author at The Adventure Junkies

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