Diving beneath the waves is like entering another world. Scuba diving allows you to see into this world clearly, swimming deeper than you’re able to with a snorkel. If you feel a connection to the water and want to explore, it’s worth getting a scuba diving certification. In many places, you can be as young as 10 years old, so it isn’t the most challenging undertaking. Any legitimate dive boat, operator, or center will require certification. They don’t want to be held accountable for a tragedy. Once you’re certified, it’s time to get adventurous! Here are the best scuba diving trips:
The Yongala
Queensland, Australia
This unique dive takes you to the shipwreck of the S. S. Yongala. The ship sunk during a cyclone in 1911 with 122 passengers on board. It was another 50 years before the ship was found. It’s now recognized as one of the best scuba diving trips in the world, attracting wildlife and divers alike. While you can’t go in the wreck, you can swim around it to get an amazing view of the structure and sea life like turtles and manta rays. Yongala Dive is world-famous and a PADI 5 Star Dive Resort. Dive courses include Open Water, Dive Master, and specialty courses, so divers of various skill levels can experience the wreck.
Misool
Indonesia
An all-inclusive resort found in Raja, Ampat in Indonesia, the Misool appears untouched by the outside world. Built on an old shark-finning camp, the resort is now focused on protecting the environment and marine life. If you like your vacations to be quiet, Missol is perfect. It has a maximum capacity of only 40 guests. At the dive center, you can find amenities designed for photographers and videographers. Every day, three guided boat dives set off to explore. Dives include the House Reef dive and local reef dives like Boo Windows, one of the Misool’s most well-known dive sites. Because the island is so remote, the staff is very cautious, so divers can only go as deep as 30 meters. Wherever you dive, you always want to follow the rules.
Mermaid Resort
Philippines
Found at Puerto Galera, the Mermaid Resort and Dive Center offers more than 40 dive sites. There are only 34 guest rooms and suites, so you don’t need to worry about crowds. The Dive Center has a variety of PADI courses, including beginner and divemaster levels. Whether you’re beginning your scuba diving journey or looking to reach that next level, the Mermaid Resort is a gorgeous place to do it. Beginners will explore coral reefs while more advanced divers head down into deep canyons. There’s something for everyone here.
Blue Grotto
Williston, Florida
If your budget doesn’t allow you to visit an all-inclusive resort, head to Florida for one of their many scuba diving trips. To experience the largest clear water cavern in Northern Florida, check out the Blue Grotto. You can dive 30 meters into warm, clear water at any time of the year. Divers from all over the country come to experience this dive. If you’re concerned about cavern diving, rest assured that it’s very safe. The resort only requires an Open Water Diving Certification. If you want to stay overnight, there are cabins available.
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