Scuba diving in Rio can be a great thing to do, as long as you venture outside of town. Reliable diving sites in Rio de Janeiro proper are nonexistent, but you're close enough to some world-class spots if you want to do some underwater exploring. The two prime Rio de Janeiro diving sites are found near the village of Arraial do Cabo and off of Ilha Grande. It only takes a couple of hours to get to these top regional diving spots, so you can venture out in the morning and get back to your Rio hotel in time for dinner and maybe even a little nightlife.
While the best scuba diving in Brazil can arguably be had off the coast of the northeastern state of Pernambuco, those who are enjoying a Rio de Janeiro vacation will have a couple of prime spots along the southeastern coast to choose from. The king of the diving sites in Rio de Janeiro is Arraial do Cabo, which is about a two-hour car ride from Rio proper. In Arraial do Cabo, you will find a marine reserve that is noted for its clear waters and its abundant marine life.
While diving at the Arraial do Cabo Marine Reserve, you can expect to see moray eels, turtles, sea horses, and a variety of tropical fish. Colorful coral only add to the allure, and you just might encounter some dolphins during your excursion. Should your Rio de Janeiro diving adventure take you to Arraial do Cabo, you can do some cave diving when you're not checking out reefs. You can also visit a shipwreck. Unless you arrange an Arraial do Cabo diving tour in Rio, you can rent equipment and schedule some dives at one of the village's dive shops. There are at least a few good ones to choose from. Back in Rio, some of the companies that offer diving trips to Arraial do Cabo also offer tours that can include other outdoor activities, such as hiking, rafting, and paragliding, so you might keep that in mind when looking for things to do.
When it comes to scuba diving in Rio, another nearby destination of choice is Ilha Grande. Found west of the city on the Green Coast, this island is also an ideal place to get away from it all for a while when visiting Sao Paulo. On the island itself, a lush tropical jungle that is home to monkeys and other fascinating creatures offers excellent hiking opportunities. Off the coast, the crystal clear waters allow divers to admire the marine corals, the turtles, the dolphins, and the exotic fish with ease. You can also check out any number of shipwrecks when diving off Ilha Grande. In fact, the waters of the Ilha Grand Bay offer up one of the world's most concentrated collections of shipwrecks. As is true of Arraial do Cabo, Ilha Grande visitors will have a few local dive shops to choose from if they haven't already booked an excursion in Rio.
When looking to do hit some diving sites in Rio de Janeiro, there are other area destinations to consider. These spots include Paraty and Buzios. Paraty is an ideal place to do some diving in the Rio area. Many beginners take to the relatively calm bay to learn the ropes, and should you be interested in some lessons, there are some local dive operators that offer them. In short order, you'll be reef diving off the Paraty coast after you sign up for lessons. As for Buzios, it isn't much different from Paraty, in that it features magnificent beaches and excellent diving sites. Grouper, anchovies, and spotted jew fish are among the fish that you can expect to see off the Buzios and Paraty coasts, and you might also come across green sea turtles, and barracudas.
These are the best diving sites in Rio de Janeiro, or the best near Rio anyways. All of these destinations feature competent dive shops that specialize in renting equipment, giving lessons, and taking more experienced divers out for a more complete experience. If you're nervous about trying some scuba diving in Rio, you can always warm up to the notion by doing some snorkeling. Plenty of area boat charters and dive operators offer snorkeling excursions.
When you book a Rio de Janeiro diving excursion in Rio itself, the company that you book your trip through will provide transportation. More often than not, you can get picked up at your Rio hotel or vacation rental. Snacks and beverages are usually provided during the organized scuba diving tours, and you won't have worry about your equipment, as that will be supplied as well. In fact, all you really have to worry about is having a great time.
Showing posts with label Diving. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Diving. Show all posts
Friday, 22 October 2010
Tuesday, 19 October 2010
Diving in New Zealand
On land, New Zealand is a truly impressive country. Dip below the surface of its inland and coastal waters, and you have yourself an equally-stunning environment. New Zealand scuba diving is on par with the best scuba diving in the world, and so it's no wonder that per capita, it has the most scuba divers of any country. The coastline of New Zealand is quite indented, making it longer than it first appears, and the wealth of marine life found here is as good as it gets. Besides hundreds of different species of fish, the New Zealand waters are often home to seals, dolphins, whales and penguins, the likes of which can pop up at a moment's notice. Whale watching in New Zealand is surely rewarding in its own rite, but can you imagine actually sharing the waters with some of these large creatures? Hot water vents, underwater caves, coral reefs, and so much more await those who add New Zealand scuba diving to their New Zealand list of things to do.
Wherever you find yourself in New Zealand, you're never more than 80 miles from the coast, so enjoying a bit of New Zealand diving on the side is always a possibility. For those who want to scuba dive New Zealand as the focus of their trip, there are various tours and vacation packages that highlight it. Dive centers are in good supply here, so you won't find it hard to arrange a diving trip once you arrive. Just remember to have your dive license and credentials handy, unless you are a novice. In that case, you can learn the ropes from a certified dive trainer. Many of the reputable New Zealand diving charter companies offer certification classes that can have you diving in no time. After learning the ins and outs in the classroom, you'll next be off to a pool or shallow ocean inlet where you can get comfortable with the actual diving part of things. After that, you're ready to enjoy New Zealand diving at its best. For those who aren't certified divers, there's always New Zealand snorkeling. Though this has its limitations compared to diving, it's still very enjoyable and can done more at your leisure. Just remember to always exercise some caution if you are snorkeling where you aren't familiar with the conditions and where there is no lifeguard.
Tour and travel companies are numerous in New Zealand, and at all the major cities and main tourist destinations, you can easily arrange a scuba diving excursion. The best time to scuba dive New Zealand is between the months of January and June. This is New Zealand's summer and fall, and it's a time when the weather is a bit more settled, and the underwater visibility better. Both the North Island and the South Island have a myriad of great dive sites, and if you were to pick the best New Zealand scuba diving destination, you'd probably have to go with the Poor Knights Islands. Known as "The Knights", these islands are found in the northern reaches of the North Island, and it's just a day trip from Auckland. You can arrange a trip to these islands in Auckland, or book a charter in the town of Whangarei, which is where most daily dive trips embark from. Famous French diver and scientist, Jacques Cousteau, rated the Poor Knights Islands as one of the world's best dive sites, which should help to give you an idea of the kind of experience you're in for. Bright reefs, sheer walls, and caves are among the things to explore at the Poor Knights Islands, and you'll witness creatures such as stingrays and the rare tropical groper. Found near Auckland as well, the Bay of Islands is an excellent New Zealand diving destination. Octopus, bottlenose dolphins, and marlin are just some of the marine life that teems in the Bay of Islands waters. Head to either Kerikeri or Paihia to find dive shops that can set you up here.
If you're based further south in Wellington, you can arrange trips for the waters close by, or even book a New Zealand diving excursion that takes you to some of the best spots around the country. Near Wellington, Kapiti Island is arguably the best place to dive or snorkel, as it offers what many consider to be the area's best underwater scenery. On the country's South Island, Stewart Island and Milford Sound offer chillier waters that present wonderful diving experiences of their own. Near Christchurch, you can head underwater at the Kaikoura Coast, which is the country's best whale-watching destination. The dolphins here are quite playful, so you might enjoy a bit of snorkeling with them before you strap your tanks on. The South Island city of Dunedin has dive shops and instructors, and you can arrange Otago Peninsula dives here, as well as arrange exciting trips to Stewart Island and Milford Sound. These locations are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to New Zealand scuba diving.
If you want to scuba dive New Zealand, you can go about it a few different ways. Fresh water dives are possible, so you might seek out a lagoon or an inland lake to explore a bit. Wreck diving is a fun pursuit to enjoy when you scuba dive New Zealand, and it involves visiting a sunken ship or other submersed and manmade object. At the Poor Knights Islands, the wreck of the Rainbow Warrior is surely interesting. At Stewart Island's Halfmoon Bay, the Marine Maid rests on the sand below, sitting upright as if it has plans to resurface and sail again some day. Day-long New Zealand scuba diving trips can be arranged, or you can book an extended "liveaboard" trip, where you sleep on the boat. Drift diving in New Zealand can be done both in the oceans and the inland, fresh-water rivers. Letting the natural currents carry you along while you observe fish and other interesting sights is both relaxing and invigorating. New Zealand scuba diving definitely has it all, so add a New Zealand diving excursion to your next trip, and see why this country is so revered by divers around the world.
Wherever you find yourself in New Zealand, you're never more than 80 miles from the coast, so enjoying a bit of New Zealand diving on the side is always a possibility. For those who want to scuba dive New Zealand as the focus of their trip, there are various tours and vacation packages that highlight it. Dive centers are in good supply here, so you won't find it hard to arrange a diving trip once you arrive. Just remember to have your dive license and credentials handy, unless you are a novice. In that case, you can learn the ropes from a certified dive trainer. Many of the reputable New Zealand diving charter companies offer certification classes that can have you diving in no time. After learning the ins and outs in the classroom, you'll next be off to a pool or shallow ocean inlet where you can get comfortable with the actual diving part of things. After that, you're ready to enjoy New Zealand diving at its best. For those who aren't certified divers, there's always New Zealand snorkeling. Though this has its limitations compared to diving, it's still very enjoyable and can done more at your leisure. Just remember to always exercise some caution if you are snorkeling where you aren't familiar with the conditions and where there is no lifeguard.
Tour and travel companies are numerous in New Zealand, and at all the major cities and main tourist destinations, you can easily arrange a scuba diving excursion. The best time to scuba dive New Zealand is between the months of January and June. This is New Zealand's summer and fall, and it's a time when the weather is a bit more settled, and the underwater visibility better. Both the North Island and the South Island have a myriad of great dive sites, and if you were to pick the best New Zealand scuba diving destination, you'd probably have to go with the Poor Knights Islands. Known as "The Knights", these islands are found in the northern reaches of the North Island, and it's just a day trip from Auckland. You can arrange a trip to these islands in Auckland, or book a charter in the town of Whangarei, which is where most daily dive trips embark from. Famous French diver and scientist, Jacques Cousteau, rated the Poor Knights Islands as one of the world's best dive sites, which should help to give you an idea of the kind of experience you're in for. Bright reefs, sheer walls, and caves are among the things to explore at the Poor Knights Islands, and you'll witness creatures such as stingrays and the rare tropical groper. Found near Auckland as well, the Bay of Islands is an excellent New Zealand diving destination. Octopus, bottlenose dolphins, and marlin are just some of the marine life that teems in the Bay of Islands waters. Head to either Kerikeri or Paihia to find dive shops that can set you up here.
If you're based further south in Wellington, you can arrange trips for the waters close by, or even book a New Zealand diving excursion that takes you to some of the best spots around the country. Near Wellington, Kapiti Island is arguably the best place to dive or snorkel, as it offers what many consider to be the area's best underwater scenery. On the country's South Island, Stewart Island and Milford Sound offer chillier waters that present wonderful diving experiences of their own. Near Christchurch, you can head underwater at the Kaikoura Coast, which is the country's best whale-watching destination. The dolphins here are quite playful, so you might enjoy a bit of snorkeling with them before you strap your tanks on. The South Island city of Dunedin has dive shops and instructors, and you can arrange Otago Peninsula dives here, as well as arrange exciting trips to Stewart Island and Milford Sound. These locations are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to New Zealand scuba diving.
If you want to scuba dive New Zealand, you can go about it a few different ways. Fresh water dives are possible, so you might seek out a lagoon or an inland lake to explore a bit. Wreck diving is a fun pursuit to enjoy when you scuba dive New Zealand, and it involves visiting a sunken ship or other submersed and manmade object. At the Poor Knights Islands, the wreck of the Rainbow Warrior is surely interesting. At Stewart Island's Halfmoon Bay, the Marine Maid rests on the sand below, sitting upright as if it has plans to resurface and sail again some day. Day-long New Zealand scuba diving trips can be arranged, or you can book an extended "liveaboard" trip, where you sleep on the boat. Drift diving in New Zealand can be done both in the oceans and the inland, fresh-water rivers. Letting the natural currents carry you along while you observe fish and other interesting sights is both relaxing and invigorating. New Zealand scuba diving definitely has it all, so add a New Zealand diving excursion to your next trip, and see why this country is so revered by divers around the world.
Fiji Diving
Divers all over the world acclaim Fiji diving as some of the best places in the world to explore the underwater world. Fiji scuba diving is so popular due to the fantastic soft coral reefs that surround the various islands. Diving in Fiji is fast becoming the best vacation for family and singles. Not only will divers love the diving in Fiji, but also the accommodations in Fiji dive resorts are overwhelming. Divers enjoy being catered to while enjoying all best diving in Fiji.
When you begin to look for the best diving in Fiji you will have to break it down into the various islands chains as each one offers their own unique world.
Yasawa Group
Fiji diving locations include Whiskey's Reef and the Zoo. Fiji dive resorts found at home in the Yasawa Group include the most popular Funky Fish Beach Resort and the Oarman's Bay Lodge.
Mamanuca Islands
Fiji scuba diving in the Mamanuca Islands is more than likely the best in diving if you are talking about the many diving spots that are excellent for novice divers. A few of the most popular dives for novice divers include Gotham City, Vomo Caves, and Endless Dream to just name a few. There are 22 novice dive locations, 3 for intermediate divers, 2 for advanced, and one awesome wreck dive. Of course, you will find all kinds of wonderful Fiji Dive Resorts in the Mamanuca Islands including Vomo Island Resort and Castaway Island Resort.
Lau Group
The Lau Group offers six wonderful Fiji scuba diving spots along with accommodations that cater to divers such as Nawanawa Estate and Moana's Guest House. Best diving in Fiji in the Lau Group can be found at Wailangilala Passage, Boehm Rock, and Sangrila.
Lomaiviti
Lomaiviti offers comfortable and convenient Fiji Dive Resorts such as Sailor Home and Ovalau Holiday Resort along with several more. The main reason you will find that scuba divers are at the top of the list when it comes to visitors to the Lomaiviti Group of islands is that there are so many unique dive spots in the area. This area may not bring many visitors unless they are divers, therefore this could be considered a divers paradise.
Viti Levu and Vanua Levu
Of course, when it comes to the main islands of Fiji you will find more dive spots than you will have to explore during your vacation. Accommodations are excellent on Viti Levu and Vanua Levu with Nadi has many resorts for divers including Coconut Inn and Tailuvu Hotel. Savusavu on Vanua Levu is one popular place for divers to congregate and one of the most popular accommodations is Savusavu Bay. Both of these islands have more dives than any of the other areas around Fiji, but of course, you will encounter more tourists and divers than if you choose a more remote island and hotel for your stay.
Kadavu
Kadavu may be one of the most popular diving spots in all of Fiji. Kadavu has several wonderful dive locations and a few great places to stay. Tourists are not as much in the way and divers can enjoy crystal clear waters and wonderful views of the world under the sea.
Taveuni
Popular dives spots in Taveuni are for intermediate or advanced divers. Advanced divers will love the Naingoro Pass and the Eagle Ray Point along with the rest of the most popular Fiji diving spots.
Monday, 18 October 2010
Scuba Diving in Australia
Scuba diving in Australia is an incredibly popular activity for many locals and tourists alike, and Australia is one of the most renowned places to dive in the world. Whether you are a seasoned professional, or have never experienced scuba diving in your life, there are plenty of scuba diving options and great Australia scuba diving resorts. Australia is home to a myriad of gorgeous beaches. From Bondi Beach, to the Great Barrier Reef, to a score of other great locations, scuba diving in Australia is a rare treat.
Many companies operate exceptional scuba diving schools in Australia with a range of classes for varying abilities. To dive on your own, you must become a certified diver. This is generally done through a series of classes during which you will be diving with trained professional. The classes are quite a lot of fun, and though you'll be learning, this is still a great way to participate in diving Australia. One of the most popular ways to experience scuba diving in Australia is through a multiple day tour. If you'll be diving for the first time, a two or three day tour will provide a chance to spend some time practicing your new found Australia diving skills, after you've taken the classes.
Probably the most renowned place for diving Australia is the Great Barrier Reef. The reef spans over 2000 kilometers, and is made up of about 900 islands and 3000 coral reefs. Unlike anything else in the world, the Great Barrier reef is home to many diverse types of fish and underwater sea life, and offers the best in Australia diving. The Great Barrier Reef is located in Queensland, off the coast of Cairns.
There are also a number of great Australia scuba diving resorts. Due to the popularity of the Great Barrier Reef, many Australia scuba diving resorts are located in Cairns. The Radisson Plaza Hotel, Seagulls Resort, and the Trinity Beach Resort are a few of the more popular places to stay. Diving Australia has long been an incredibly fun and thrilling way to see Australia.
Sydney, Australia, also offers some great dives, and excellent Australia scuba diving resorts. Classes are available off the Sydney beaches as well, for all abilities. For those looking to take their diving to the next level, there are advanced open water courses available at Nelson Bay in Sydney, as well. These courses include more deep sea diving, and experienced patrons often have the chance to swim with sharks. For travelers looking to increase their ability, as well as make contact with other experienced divers, this is a great option.
Staying at one of the many Australia scuba diving resorts certainly doesn't mean you have to dive. However, for anyone making a trip to any of the many beaches in Australia, Australia diving can be an exhilarating chance to experience the ocean in a whole new way.
Many companies operate exceptional scuba diving schools in Australia with a range of classes for varying abilities. To dive on your own, you must become a certified diver. This is generally done through a series of classes during which you will be diving with trained professional. The classes are quite a lot of fun, and though you'll be learning, this is still a great way to participate in diving Australia. One of the most popular ways to experience scuba diving in Australia is through a multiple day tour. If you'll be diving for the first time, a two or three day tour will provide a chance to spend some time practicing your new found Australia diving skills, after you've taken the classes.
Probably the most renowned place for diving Australia is the Great Barrier Reef. The reef spans over 2000 kilometers, and is made up of about 900 islands and 3000 coral reefs. Unlike anything else in the world, the Great Barrier reef is home to many diverse types of fish and underwater sea life, and offers the best in Australia diving. The Great Barrier Reef is located in Queensland, off the coast of Cairns.
There are also a number of great Australia scuba diving resorts. Due to the popularity of the Great Barrier Reef, many Australia scuba diving resorts are located in Cairns. The Radisson Plaza Hotel, Seagulls Resort, and the Trinity Beach Resort are a few of the more popular places to stay. Diving Australia has long been an incredibly fun and thrilling way to see Australia.
Sydney, Australia, also offers some great dives, and excellent Australia scuba diving resorts. Classes are available off the Sydney beaches as well, for all abilities. For those looking to take their diving to the next level, there are advanced open water courses available at Nelson Bay in Sydney, as well. These courses include more deep sea diving, and experienced patrons often have the chance to swim with sharks. For travelers looking to increase their ability, as well as make contact with other experienced divers, this is a great option.
Staying at one of the many Australia scuba diving resorts certainly doesn't mean you have to dive. However, for anyone making a trip to any of the many beaches in Australia, Australia diving can be an exhilarating chance to experience the ocean in a whole new way.
Saturday, 16 October 2010
Scuba Diving in Mexico
One of the most popular and rewarding activities for any Mexico beach vacation is scuba diving Mexico. Scuba diving resources are abundantly available all along the Mexican coast with many of the popular resort towns offering great deals that combine scuba diving Mexico with accommodation and other travel plans. If you plan to include scuba diving Mexico in your Mexico beach vacation, read on for information on some of the more popular locations.
One great place to experience scuba diving, either as a novice or experienced diver, is Cozumel. Located just 12 miles from the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, scuba diving Cozumel is known for the gorgeous reefs that stretch along its coast. Apart from great shopping and exciting nightlife, Cozumel has an intricate underwater landscape that is one of the most beautiful in the world. Scuba diving Cozumel reveals a dazzling underwater world with cliffs, canyons and underwater vegetation. Friendly fish flock to these underwater paradises for food and travelers scuba diving Cozumel will have the chance to swim along side schools of angelfish and other sea life.
Another thriving diving hotspot on the Yucatan is Cancun. A Mecca for boating and fishing enthusiasts, scuba diving Cancun is also one of the most popular activities in the area. Nearly every hotel in Cancun will offer packages for scuba diving Cancun and for good reason. Divers may choose from one of two popular locations. The shallow and colorful reefs off Playa Del Carman is widely frequented, as is Chinchorro Banks, which offers access to the second largest barrier reef in the world (after Australia"s Great Barrier Reef). Scuba diving Cancun is a great choice for divers of every level. The city also offers plenty of other entertainment, such as visiting nearby Mayan ruins or just hanging out on the beach.
One of the more popular scuba destinations for divers around the world is Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta scuba diving is a rare treat, as many of the nearby islands and bays, such as Los Arcos, Majahuitas. The Marietas islands have been designated as protected underwater national parks. Between December and April, Puerto Vallarta scuba diving will likely offer views of humpback whales, as the mammals migrate to the warms seas off the coast each winter. Whale sharks, dolphins, sea turtles and a variety of tropical fish also make this safe haven their home. Puerto Vallarta scuba diving is a great adventure for anyone taking a Mexico beach vacation in the area.
Although Puerto Vallarta, Cancun and Cozumel are some of the more famous spots for scuba diving, there are also some great spots off the coast of Cabo San Lucas and La Paz. Depending on the length of your Mexico beach vacation, you may want to take a day or two to explore all that diving has to offer. Day trips, as well as longer boating excursions, are widely available. Winter is by far the best season for scuba diving, as the highest number of sea creatures will migrate to the warm waters of Mexico. If you plan to dive during this time, be sure to book ahead, as tours do fill up. Whether you"ll be taking your first dive or your hundredth dive, the scuba diving Mexico offers is truly world-class.
One great place to experience scuba diving, either as a novice or experienced diver, is Cozumel. Located just 12 miles from the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, scuba diving Cozumel is known for the gorgeous reefs that stretch along its coast. Apart from great shopping and exciting nightlife, Cozumel has an intricate underwater landscape that is one of the most beautiful in the world. Scuba diving Cozumel reveals a dazzling underwater world with cliffs, canyons and underwater vegetation. Friendly fish flock to these underwater paradises for food and travelers scuba diving Cozumel will have the chance to swim along side schools of angelfish and other sea life.
Another thriving diving hotspot on the Yucatan is Cancun. A Mecca for boating and fishing enthusiasts, scuba diving Cancun is also one of the most popular activities in the area. Nearly every hotel in Cancun will offer packages for scuba diving Cancun and for good reason. Divers may choose from one of two popular locations. The shallow and colorful reefs off Playa Del Carman is widely frequented, as is Chinchorro Banks, which offers access to the second largest barrier reef in the world (after Australia"s Great Barrier Reef). Scuba diving Cancun is a great choice for divers of every level. The city also offers plenty of other entertainment, such as visiting nearby Mayan ruins or just hanging out on the beach.
One of the more popular scuba destinations for divers around the world is Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta scuba diving is a rare treat, as many of the nearby islands and bays, such as Los Arcos, Majahuitas. The Marietas islands have been designated as protected underwater national parks. Between December and April, Puerto Vallarta scuba diving will likely offer views of humpback whales, as the mammals migrate to the warms seas off the coast each winter. Whale sharks, dolphins, sea turtles and a variety of tropical fish also make this safe haven their home. Puerto Vallarta scuba diving is a great adventure for anyone taking a Mexico beach vacation in the area.
Although Puerto Vallarta, Cancun and Cozumel are some of the more famous spots for scuba diving, there are also some great spots off the coast of Cabo San Lucas and La Paz. Depending on the length of your Mexico beach vacation, you may want to take a day or two to explore all that diving has to offer. Day trips, as well as longer boating excursions, are widely available. Winter is by far the best season for scuba diving, as the highest number of sea creatures will migrate to the warm waters of Mexico. If you plan to dive during this time, be sure to book ahead, as tours do fill up. Whether you"ll be taking your first dive or your hundredth dive, the scuba diving Mexico offers is truly world-class.
Saturday, 9 October 2010
Miami Scuba Diving
For some of the best Florida scuba diving, head to Miami where artificial reef construction, natural rocks and the coral reefs off Miami Beach offer divers a wide selection of dive sites. Miami scuba diving in deep waters can be enjoyed at artificial reefs created by planned wrecks where divers will find an abundance of marine life. Miles of shallow water scuba diving in Miami can be found around the natural reefs closer inland. In Miami, you'll also find well-established dive shops, top scuba charters and highly qualified dive instructors.
Whereas many seasoned divers sometimes like to go it alone, for most, scuba diving in Miami usually involves a day-trip out to sea with one of the city's scuba charters. If you are already licensed to dive, then you can book a trip through a number of Miami scuba diving operations. If you are not licensed, many of the companies that specialize in scuba diving Miami will offer instruction and certification courses, normally taking a couple of days. Most of these instruction sessions can fit your schedule with morning, afternoon and evening classes, and some dive shops offer an online section to the course. Among the recommended dive shops in Miami, are Diver's Paradise and South Beach Divers.
Miami is a popular place to dive for those seeking a good amount of wreck sites, whereas over 75 current wrecks can be found off the Miami coast. As scuba diving in Miami becomes ever more popular, the Dade County Environmental Resource Management division actually arranges for ships to be sunk to make more sites for Miami scuba diving trips. Once boats are selected to be sunk, they are cleaned and environmentally prepared to become artificial reefs, where marine life eventually thrives. As these artificial reefs develop and become a part of the ocean environment, they eventually develop into popular sites for fishing and scuba diving in Miami. They also provide relief to the area's natural coral reefs. What makes scuba diving in Miami so excellent is the balance between the natural reefs and the artificial ones. Wreck sites generating artificial reefs include ships, tanks, tug boats, old pipes, a water tower and even a Jose Cuervo concrete bar.
Many of the reef sites along the Miami coast are found in calm and relatively shallow waters, and beginners scuba diving Miami can easily access them. Graceland Reef is a good place for beginners looking to develop confidence and skills while scuba diving in Miami. Graceland Reef is extremely shallow, sitting only 18-22 feet below the surface, and among its ledges divers will find plenty of crags to explore. Graceland Reef is several hundred yards long, which makes for lengths of sites for exploration. Another reef well worth visiting during your scuba diving Miami adventure is Emerald Reef, which is gaining in popularity as a quality Miami dive site. Emerald Reef is just 30 feet below the surface, and its size places it among the larger natural reefs found off the Miami coast. Some Miami dive shops will even arrange day trips to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, found near Key Largo. Great coral reef diving can be found at Pennekamp and the adjacent Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary.
Among the most popular wreck sites to dive in Miami, is the Sheri-Lyn. Found within a few miles off Key Biscayne, the Sheri-Lyn is a 230-foot freighter made of steel that has split into two pieces. Divers to this site can explore the ship's hull and perimeter, where they will encounter a wide array of marine life, including barracuda, arrow crabs and other ocean creatures. Visibility at the Sheri-Lyn is usually very good, making it ideal for marine photographers. The Tenneco Towers are among the most unique Miami scuba diving wrecks, and they dually serve as the understood northern boundary for Miami-based dive operators. The "Tenneco Towers" are actually old Tenneco Oil Platforms, and in their past lives they served in the Gulf of Mexico. In 1985, Tenneco Oil Company moved the platforms to the Miami coast, with the sole purpose of sinking them to create artificial reefs. This is a dive to be made by intermediate and advanced divers, as the depth of the three separate towers ranges from 110-190 feet. The platforms, having been submerged for 22 years, offer a novel diving experience among their coral-covered rungs, and they harbor a variety of sea life such as barracuda and bull sharks, as well as hundreds of species of fish.
Miami offers so much when it comes to Miami scuba diving. Generous gulfstream currents often make for good visibility, and beneath Miami waters a number of scuba diving Miami adventures await both the novice and the experienced. Scuba diving Miami involves a little bit of the best of everything you could want when diving. Natural and artificial coral reefs, numerous wrecks, warm waters and a multitude of marine life characterize Miami scuba diving. From West Palm Beach, to Miami and down to the Florida Keys, some of the best scuba diving on the planet awaits visitors to southeastern Florida.
Whereas many seasoned divers sometimes like to go it alone, for most, scuba diving in Miami usually involves a day-trip out to sea with one of the city's scuba charters. If you are already licensed to dive, then you can book a trip through a number of Miami scuba diving operations. If you are not licensed, many of the companies that specialize in scuba diving Miami will offer instruction and certification courses, normally taking a couple of days. Most of these instruction sessions can fit your schedule with morning, afternoon and evening classes, and some dive shops offer an online section to the course. Among the recommended dive shops in Miami, are Diver's Paradise and South Beach Divers.
Miami is a popular place to dive for those seeking a good amount of wreck sites, whereas over 75 current wrecks can be found off the Miami coast. As scuba diving in Miami becomes ever more popular, the Dade County Environmental Resource Management division actually arranges for ships to be sunk to make more sites for Miami scuba diving trips. Once boats are selected to be sunk, they are cleaned and environmentally prepared to become artificial reefs, where marine life eventually thrives. As these artificial reefs develop and become a part of the ocean environment, they eventually develop into popular sites for fishing and scuba diving in Miami. They also provide relief to the area's natural coral reefs. What makes scuba diving in Miami so excellent is the balance between the natural reefs and the artificial ones. Wreck sites generating artificial reefs include ships, tanks, tug boats, old pipes, a water tower and even a Jose Cuervo concrete bar.
Many of the reef sites along the Miami coast are found in calm and relatively shallow waters, and beginners scuba diving Miami can easily access them. Graceland Reef is a good place for beginners looking to develop confidence and skills while scuba diving in Miami. Graceland Reef is extremely shallow, sitting only 18-22 feet below the surface, and among its ledges divers will find plenty of crags to explore. Graceland Reef is several hundred yards long, which makes for lengths of sites for exploration. Another reef well worth visiting during your scuba diving Miami adventure is Emerald Reef, which is gaining in popularity as a quality Miami dive site. Emerald Reef is just 30 feet below the surface, and its size places it among the larger natural reefs found off the Miami coast. Some Miami dive shops will even arrange day trips to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, found near Key Largo. Great coral reef diving can be found at Pennekamp and the adjacent Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary.
Among the most popular wreck sites to dive in Miami, is the Sheri-Lyn. Found within a few miles off Key Biscayne, the Sheri-Lyn is a 230-foot freighter made of steel that has split into two pieces. Divers to this site can explore the ship's hull and perimeter, where they will encounter a wide array of marine life, including barracuda, arrow crabs and other ocean creatures. Visibility at the Sheri-Lyn is usually very good, making it ideal for marine photographers. The Tenneco Towers are among the most unique Miami scuba diving wrecks, and they dually serve as the understood northern boundary for Miami-based dive operators. The "Tenneco Towers" are actually old Tenneco Oil Platforms, and in their past lives they served in the Gulf of Mexico. In 1985, Tenneco Oil Company moved the platforms to the Miami coast, with the sole purpose of sinking them to create artificial reefs. This is a dive to be made by intermediate and advanced divers, as the depth of the three separate towers ranges from 110-190 feet. The platforms, having been submerged for 22 years, offer a novel diving experience among their coral-covered rungs, and they harbor a variety of sea life such as barracuda and bull sharks, as well as hundreds of species of fish.
Miami offers so much when it comes to Miami scuba diving. Generous gulfstream currents often make for good visibility, and beneath Miami waters a number of scuba diving Miami adventures await both the novice and the experienced. Scuba diving Miami involves a little bit of the best of everything you could want when diving. Natural and artificial coral reefs, numerous wrecks, warm waters and a multitude of marine life characterize Miami scuba diving. From West Palm Beach, to Miami and down to the Florida Keys, some of the best scuba diving on the planet awaits visitors to southeastern Florida.
Friday, 8 October 2010
Fort Lauderdale Diving
Some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida can be found in Fort Lauderdale, and throngs of visitors crowd the shores during the winter months to enjoy the sunny weather and gorgeous blue waters. A unique marine attraction here is the coral reef located off the coast of Fort Lauderdale; its close proximity to shore is unusual, and it allows swimmers to paddle out to a diverse marine ecosystem from the sand rather than take a boat several miles off-shore. If you are unsure about which activities to include on your vacation itinerary, consider Fort Lauderdale diving—it will surely add excitement and adventure to your already delightful plans.
Fort Lauderdale scuba diving is one of the most popular activities along the coast, and it is fairly simple to get to the best diving locations without booking passage on a boat. With one natural reef and more than 70 man-made reefs located in several places throughout the area, there are many opportunities to dive in Fort Lauderdale. The natural coral reef is located only 100 yards off the shore of the charming community of Lauderdale by the Sea, and it is home to a great deal of diverse marine wildlife. The artificial reefs were installed to promote the growth of coral and other animals that thrive in reefs. Other great Fort Lauderdale diving places are offshore shipwrecks where many underwater flora and fauna have made a home. Considering where to dive in Fort Lauderdale can be a challenge as there are so many places bursting with life and exciting opportunities, but each place offers a unique experience and is certainly worth a trip.
Many Fort Lauderdale scuba diving companies offer diving lessons for visitors who are interested in engaging in a bit of underwater adventure during their vacation in Florida but don't have prior experience. Some establishments offer programs in which students may become scuba instructors. The Scuba School and Dive Center and the South Florida Diving Headquarters are popular centers for lessons; there are other options, but wherever you go, do remember that scuba instructions must be attained from a state-approved enterprise. If you are unsure about your diving skills and prefer to remain topside, many of the diving centers offer glass-bottom boats for a dry underwater experience.
Before entering the water, divers should note a couple of rules; it is important to steer clear of the pier at the end of Commercial Boulevard, which is a designated fishing pier. Be sure that you are diving with at least one other diver, and always carry and display the "Diver Down" flag to alert other divers and boaters of your whereabouts. Scuba divers must remain at least 100 yards offshore, where the nearest coral reef starts, except when entering and leaving the water.
Fort Lauderdale scuba diving is a wonderful activity that will add the wonders of the undersea world to your vacation memories. Whether you are experienced of an amateur, Fort Lauderdale diving centers cater to your every need to ensure that you experience the marine world to its fullest capacity. Among your activities of choice, taking advantage of the chance to dive in Fort Lauderdale is well worth putting at the top of your list, particularly if you are interested in spending time in the warm Florida waters and learning about the native marine life.
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