From Saint-Tropez to the Seychelles, here are some scuba diving destinations where travelers can check out the deep blue sea in styel!
Swim Reef at The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui features a one-of-a-kind temperate Swim Reef that teems with over 50 species of injured fish rescued from local fishermen. The Swim Reef is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, and offers unique snorkeling and fish-feeding experiences. The pool is approximately 24 meters long and approximately 1.2 meters deep. In addition to the many species of fish, the pool includes three cat sharks, sea cucumbers and anemones.
The 30-minute guided swim reef experience is led by the resort's Swim Reef Specialist, who teaches guests fun facts about the behavior, habitat and lifestyle of the fish. Guests are also offered an opportunity to feed some of the fish underwater, view the cat sharks, hold sea cucumbers and have the 'cleaner wrasse’ experience, where they stay as still as possible and the small fish swim up and 'clean' their outstretched arm.
Hotel Lou Pinet — Saint-Tropez
Hôtel Lou Pinet, a luxury hideaway in the French Rivera’s legendary town of Saint-Tropez offers a myriad of activities for guests to discover the iconic Gulf of Saint Tropez, including diving experiences. The hotel concierge team helps guests with arranging diving experiences to take a plunge into the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez to discover its extraordinary rich seabed. With diving opportunities for all levels and capabilities, water enthusiasts can dive down anywhere between 3 meters and 60 meters into the hidden side of Saint-Tropez and explore an entire ecosystem inhabited by colorful corals, unusual fish, fascinating sea life, and even wrecks that lie on the seafloor. After diving into the blue waters of the coast, guests can unwind back at the hotel and enjoy the Tata Harper Spa, two bars, very own BeefBar restaurant butcher shop, and the largest hotel pool in Saint-Tropez tucked away in a secret garden.
The Galapagos Islands with Quasar Expeditions
Although known for their abundance of hiking trails and vast number of endemic species studied by Charles Darwin, the Galapagos Islands also offer amazing experiences in the ocean. With crystal clear water, year-round warm temperatures and an abundance of fish life, the islands are prime diving spots. Great schools of barracudas, bonitos, eagle rays, and hammerheads are regularly spotted in the open water, while strange and exotic species such as the Rainbow Basslet, Red-lipped Batfish, Bloody Frogfish, Pacific Seahorse, and Galapagos Clingfish can be found along the boulder-strewn sea floor. Additionally, each year between June and November whale sharks migrate to the islands, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For divers considering a trip to the Galapagos Islands, Quasar Expeditions offers seven-night cruises on their yachts the M/V Evolution and M/Y Grace (a wedding gift from Aristotle Onassis to Prince Rainer and Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco). Travelers will feel like they’re on a true expedition while also enjoying five-star service and accommodations.
PADI Diving Center at Fregate Island
In the middle of the Indian Ocean sits newly reopened Fregate Island, a conservation sanctuary and luxury hideaway. Fregate Island is home to the Dive Center at Fregate Island Marina and offers various diving courses and certifications. All guided dives are conducted from one of Fregate Island's dive vessels. There are numerous beautiful sites, which are exclusive to Fregate Island guests, and suit all levels of diver from beginner through to experienced. A PADI Instructor accompanies each guest on every dive. Certified divers are required to show proof of certification before diving.
For those interested in exploring the underwater realm, Fregate Island instructors offer all PADI dive courses as well as special programs and certifications for children. A complimentary introduction to scuba is available on request, enabling explorers to experience the sensation of breathing underwater before they decide to take a course. Diving experiences are available both day and night and include a private yacht charter, experienced captain and dive instructor, all dive equipment, requested refreshments and snacks on board, full continental lunch/breakfast, beach towels and accompaniment by guests’ personal assistants.
The marine environment around Fregate Island is truly diverse and unspoiled, teeming with color and dramatic topography. The scuba instructors know all the best spots, and guests are sure to see amazing marine life including plenty of fish, gentle sharks and plenty of coral.
Whenever divers return from their sea adventures, their Personal Assistant or one of the Fregate Island Team will be waiting with refreshing cooled towels and crushed iced drinks.
Kommentare