Caradonna Dive Travel Guide 2008

Transcription

DIVE TRAVEL GUIDE 2008
caribbean central america mexico mid-atlantic pacific exotic
Book your next deep
blue adventure.
Contact your local
dive travel professional
or call 800-328-2288.
Approximately 70% of the Earth’s surface is
covered by water. Roughly 70% of the human body
is comprised of water. Coincidence? We don’t think
so. It seems right in line with the laws of nature for man
to be drawn to explore the liquid domain of this planet,
and we’ve made it our business to help you do just that.
Distributed annually, this collection of the best diving
destinations in the world is designed for discerning divers in search
of their next underwater adventure and the best way to get there. As we
have done for over two decades, Caradonna Dive Adventures represents the
world’s top dive resorts, dive operators and live-aboards and packages them
with airfare for the best price available.
In this guide, you will find every destination that you have ever dreamed of at your
fingertips. So, when you are considering your next dive trip, pick up the Dive Travel
Guide, choose where you want to go and do what so many of our satisfied customers
have done for over 20 years—contact your local dive shop. Their expertise, combined
with Caradonna’s, will ensure that you get the best possible dive vacation at the best
price available. As our slogan states, we take the hassle out of trip planning because
we know that for vast majority of you, all you want to do is get wet.
As great a resource as our Dive Travel Guide is, I’d also like to remind you to keep an eye
on our web sites on a regular basis for the latest, breaking deals being offered as well as
a wealth of downloadable info. So to stay afloat and current, your next giant stride is only
a click away at www.caradonna.com or www.trip-n-tour.com. We look forward to providing
you with your next deep blue adventure.
Timothy Webb, President
Caradonna Dive Adventures & Trip-N-Tour Pacific
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central america
belize . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
costa rica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
honduras . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
caribbean
ON THE COVER
Quintessential Fiji—our cover
shot showcases Rainbow Reef
in the Somosomo Strait between
Taveuni and Vanua Levu. Image
captured by Island Exposure.
THIS PAGE
Photograph capturing the watery
world by Tim Rock.
aruba . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
bahamas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
barbados . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
bonaire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
cayman Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
curaçao . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
dominica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
dominican republic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
grenada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
puerto rico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
saba & statia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
st. kitts & nevis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
st. lucia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
st. vincent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
tobago . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
turks & caicos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
virgin islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
mexico
baja . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
cozumel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
riviera maya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
mid-atlantic
bermuda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
pacific
australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
fiji . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
galapagos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
hawaii . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
micronesia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
solomon islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
tahiti & her islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
tonga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
exotic
indonesia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
malaysia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
maldives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
papua new guinea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
philippines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
south africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96
thailand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
more...
ultimate adventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98
eco adventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100
environmental committment . . . . . . . . . .100
terms & conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
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aruba
The Mill Resort & Suites Aruba
©
Da
rre
ll
Jo
ne
s
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . .100’
Wetsuit . . . . . . .skin to 3mm
Best Time . . . . . . .Year-round
©
Favorite Dive Sites
• Wreck of the Antilla
• Wreck of the Pedernales
• Wreck of the Star Garren
• Baby Beach
©
There’s More...
Discover all of your options
at www.caradonna.com
Jon
e
s
Da
rrel
l Jo
ne
s
Talk of the Town Hotel & Beach Club with diving by S.E. Aruba Fly ‘n Dive
Intimate, charming and inviting, the Talk of the Town
Hotel and Beach Club has completed a major
renovation. Across the street from Surfside Beach, this
is the perfect location for divers on Aruba, with a very
welcoming staff. S.E. Aruba Fly ‘n Dive offers you a way
to discover the Dutch Caribbean’s natural resources and
scenery. Whether you want to become a diver, continue
your education or just enjoy some great diving on Aruba,
their international instructors can teach and show you
the way. “Diving is fun” is the motto of every course and
dive trip that S.E. Aruba Fly ‘n Dive organizes.
• Located within walking distance to downtown Oranjestad for dining, shopping and nightlife
• Free Wi-Fi internet access
• Fully-equipped and updated dive operation
• A variety of dives include shallow reefs, gentle slopes, vertical walls, wreck and night dives
• Caribbean’s largest historical wreck, the Antilla, a 390-foot German WWII freighter at 60 feet deep
Divi Aruba Phoenix on Palm Beach
Divi Dutch Village Resort
Divi Village Golf Resort
Unique Sports of Aruba
This resort will feature 240 beachfront
studio, one- and two-bedroom
suites with full kitchens when the
new addition is finished in early 2008,
along with three pools, fitness center,
spa, casual and gourmet dining,
swim-up bar and free shuttle to
nearby Casino. Scuba diving offered
by S.E. Aruba Fly ‘n Dive.
Nestled in a delightful tropical garden
dotted with freshwater pools, the
Divi Dutch Village Resort is an
intimate all-suite resort in the Divi
Aruba resort collection—a serene
spot with oversized rooms and quiet
escapes—perfect for families with all
generations. Diving provided by
Unique Sports of Aruba.
Steps from Aruba’s white sand
beaches, the Divi Village Golf resort
offers three restaurants, three pools,
tennis courts, oceanfront fitness
center, rock climbing wall and a
featured Links golf course. The resort
offers large studio, one-and twobedroom suites with full kitchens.
Diving with S.E. Aruba Fly ‘n Dive.
This PADI 5 Star Gold Palm and
National Geographic Dive Center
has four custom dive boats and
offers the largest number of dive
departures per day. Unique Sports
of Aruba provides free resort
transportation to their shop, located
at the beautiful Radisson Resort on
Palm beach.
©
©
Casual elegance and lush tropical
gardens surround 200 rooms and
suites—most with fully equipped
kitchens—to create the perfect
family vacation atmosphere. Two
pools, tennis courts, poolside bar
and restaurant complete the
experience. Beach facilities across
the street, free shuttle provided.
4
Da
rrel
l
Topside Attractions
• California Lighthouse
• Horseback riding
• Rock climbing
Carlos Minguell
© BILL HARRIGAN
This Dutch island is home to the wreck of
the Antilla, a 400’+ supply ship for a
German submarine group during World
War II. Sites such as Barcadera Reef, Lago
Reef, and Malmok Reef are packed with
schooling fish and dramatic coral
formations. Topside, Aruba caters to the
most sophisticated traveler with state-ofthe-art casinos, first-rate entertainment,
five-star accommodations, an extensive
array of fine restaurants, and fabulous
shopping in downtown Oranjestad. As
sophisticated as Aruba is, there are still
plenty of off-the-beaten-track options
including hiking, cycle tours, jeep safaris,
and even rock-climbing.
Contact your local dive travel professional or call us at 800-328-2288.
Dar
rell J
ones
bahamas
bahamas
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . .80-100’
Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour
Abaco
This popular, upscale, 88-unit oceanfront resort—with
its own private beach and the finest restaurant in the Out
Islands—offers the service and first-class amenities
which make everyone feel completely pampered. Check
into a spacious oceanfront room, suite or two-bedroom
cottage with full kitchen, then head out for a day of
world-class diving. Take a dip in either of the two
swimming pools (one with swim-up bar), work out in the
fitness center or play tennis day or night. Nightly
entertainment offered six nights a week. The resort’s
190-slip marina has rental and charter boats for fishing,
boating and sightseeing to nearby cays.
Favorite Dive Sites
• Fowl Cay Preserve, Abacos
• Andros Blue Holes
• Over the Wall, Andros
• Edge of the Ledge, Grand
Bahama
Topside Attractions
• Island bar-hop through the
Abacos: Nippers on Guana Cay,
Pete’s Pub at Little Harbor
• Biking, birding, and nature
walks on Andros
• Hike the Heritage Trail on
Grand Bahama
We Also Represent...
• Island treats and refreshments served on all dive trips
• Choose personal gear care and storage or use the shop’s top notch equipment
• Brand new Kevlacat dive boat with twin 250s, runs 25 knots
• Wide array of additional dives and upgrades
• Free non-motorized water sports and rental equipment available
GRAND BAHAMA
• Port Lucaya Resort & Yacht Club
• Sheraton Grand Bahama
Island at Our Lucaya
• Westin Grand Bahama
Island at Our Lucaya
NASSAU
• Orange Hill Beach Inn
• Stuart’s Cove
• SuperClubs Breezes Bahamas
© CARLOS VILLOCH
The many islands that make
up the Bahamas are wellknown for the wide variety
of diving experiences—from
diving with wild dolphins in
the out-islands of the
Abacos to diving the blue
holes and plummeting walls
off Andros, there are an
abundance of underwater
adventures here to fill a
lifetime.
Stella Maris Resort Club
• Third largest barrier reef in the world—ocean and inland blue holes
• All-inclusive with all rooms on the beach, all meals and open bar
• On-staff instructors provide a personalized diving experience
• Store all gear in the dive center according to room number
• Complete instruction, one-on-one specialty dives and Nitrox available
Long Island
Stella Maris Resort Club is fairly priced with excellent
services. Dedicated to sun and sea, the resort offers
diving and snorkeling, kayaking, biking and more. Ideal
for water sports enthusiasts and for just getting away
from it all vacations. Stella Maris offers a great location
for diving, the southern Bahamas—the best of the
subtropical climate zones, avoiding early-year cold
fronts and enjoying surprisingly moderate summer and
fall temperatures. And underwater, the ocean is crystal
clear and rich with underwater life. From wholesome day
activities to pleasant sunset entertainment, Stella Maris
is a sophisticated retreat at a barefoot price.
Grand Bahama
Nestled on the southern coast of
Grand Bahama, this 26-acre, 276room beachfront all-inclusive
paradise features a swimming
pool, cocktail and snack bar,
beach and disco bars, three
restaurants, theater, gym and onsite Viva Dive Center.
Unexso
BONUS
Free
Nitrox
refills
Riding Rock Inn Resort & Marina
• Excellent dive sites: Shark Reef, World’s Deepest Blue Hole, Pristine Conception Island Wall
• PADI Resort and Open Water Courses, daily gear care and storage, gear rental
• Daily complimentary snorkeling excursions on east, west and north coasts
• Hundreds of dive sites on the lee and ocean sides—wrecks, walls, coral heads and reefs
• Tropical decor accommodations include balcony, fridge, coffeemaker, hair dryer, ocean view
6
Book four
nights, get
one night
free Aug
to Nov
Andros
Since 1960, Small Hope Bay Lodge has been hosting
divers, snorkelers, fishermen and eco-tourists at this Out
Island hideaway on the beach. Situated just a short boat
ride from the world’s third largest coral reef, the diving and
bonefishing are nothing less than spectacular. What really
sets this resort apart is its unique heritage, its simple and
friendly ambience, and a special soulful energy that simply
cannot be imitated. Dive packages include three one-tank
dives per day. The vacationer package includes free
Discover Scuba and snorkel lessons, or you can take selfguided nature walks, or bike, windsurf, sail, kayak or
purchase a fishing trip a lá carte.
• Treasure Caye Hotel Resort
& Marina
• Hotel Riu Paradise Island
BONUS
Small Hope Bay Lodge
ABACO
PARADISE ISLAND
Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach
Grand Bahama
Conveniently located within walking
distance from three major hotels,
Unexso has been diving for 40
years, offering a variety of dives
including a dolphin and shark dive.
The spacious facility is home to a
pool, retail store, bar and grill, dive
museum and an international staff.
Caribbean Explorer I
San Salvador
With flights from South Florida and Nassau Bahamas,
visitors to the island immediately recognize the warm
hospitality, friendly atmosphere and island beauty upon
touchdown at the San Salvador International Airport. Just
a five-minute ride from the airport, the Riding Rock Inn
Resort & Marina overlooks a breathtaking view of the
crystalline turquoise waters that surround this tropical
paradise. Water sports enthusiasts will be anxious to
explore and experience the underwater jewel of this
unspoiled destination. Scuba divers and sportfishermen
are spellbound, making Riding Rock Inn Resort & Marina
their preferred destination of choice.
• Drinking water and ice with light snacks on dive trips
• Gear pickup and drop-off to and from room storage
• Daily gear care and storage
• Additional dives and upgrades available
• Night diving offered, underwater photos available on CD
Bahamas Live-Aboard
Dive pristine walls and reefs and
see the big animals found in the
Southern Bahamas. The vessel
features staterooms with private
baths, and double cabins with
private sink, vanity and shared
baths. The common areas and
expansive dive deck are ideal.
7
barbados
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .40-70’
Favorite Dive Sites
• Wreck of the Stavronikita
• Wreck of the Eilon
• Wreck of the Berwyn
• Wreck of the C-Trek
Topside Attractions
• Barbados Wildlife Reserve to
see the green monkeys
• Harrison’s Cave
There’s More...
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
The wreck of the 365’ Greek
freighter, the Stavronikita is
one of the most popular
dives on Barbados, but the
entire west coast of the
island offers great reef diving
with frequent sightings of
turtles, rays and schooling
fish. Carlisle Bay is also
home to five wrecks—
making it a favorite for wreck
aficionados. Visitors can
experience the island’s
sophisticated and active
lifestyle through its luxurious
resorts, fine restaurants,
world-class
golf,
and
especially its passion for its
national sport, cricket.
Hightide Water Sports
Divi Southwinds Beach Resort
Bougainvillea Beach Resort
Coconut Court Beach Hotel
Hightide Water Sport’s PADItrained staff provides professional
and personal service on spacious
dive boats for hassle-free diving.
Hightide Water Sports is located
at the prestigious Coral Reef Club.
Set on a half-mile of beach amid 20
acres of tropical gardens in the lively
St. Lawrence Gap, this resort offers
a host of activities. Over 130
spacious suites with fully-equipped
kitchens and a long list of amenities
make it a perfect choice for a special
island vacation. Diving with
Hightide Water Sports.
This elegant beachfront resort has
138 beautiful air-conditioned suites
complete with kitchens. Excellent
facilities include two restaurants,
three pools, swim-up bar, a wide
range of water sports, kids club,
tennis, gym and more—a great
choice for couples or families. Diving
with Hightide Water Sports.
Experience Caribbean beach living
at its best at Coconut Court Beach
Hotel, a hotel with friendly service,
a distinct Caribbean flair and a
great value on a lovely South Coast
Beach. All rooms feature a balcony
with an ocean view, refrigerator, TV,
and microwave. Diving provided by
Barbados Blue Water Sports.
8
bonaire
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . .100’
Favorite Dive Sites
• Hilma Hooker
• Town Pier or Salt Pier
• Forest, Klein Bonaire
Topside Attractions
• Mangrove kayaking
• Windsurfing at Sorobon
• Sunday afternoons at Cai
• Mountain biking through
Washington Park
• Eden Beach Resort
There’s More...
© ETHAN GORDON
Den Laman Condominiums
This diver’s paradise has set the standard for dive destinations around the world by
implementing strict marine protection policies over 30 years ago and establishing one of the
world’s first marine parks. Bonaire is also arguably the best shore diving destination in the
world with over 60 dive sites hardly a stone’s throw from shore and over 80 in total—including
those surrounding the offshore deserted island of Klein Bonaire. The marine life is also
abundant with some sites having the highest biodiversity of marine life in the Caribbean.
10
One of Bonaire’s newest oceanfront
resorts on the Caribbean’s top reef
features 15 modern air-conditioned
apartments with kitchens, dining
and living areas perched atop the
waterfront
Reef
Restaurant.
Bonaire Dive & Adventure and
Fish-Eye Photo on-site. Free Nitrox
upgrade for enriched air divers.
bonaire
Buddy Dive Resort
Experience Bonaire with Buddy Dive Resort. Buddy’s
is a resort where you can dive, dive, dive, take part in
a multitude of other available activities, or just sit
back, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere. A PADI 5 Star
Gold Palm Resort that keeps the needs of divers in
mind, Buddy Dive Resort is known for its casual
atmosphere and personable staff with hotel rooms as
well as studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom
apartments with fully-equipped kitchens. Divers,
snorkelers, adventurers, and leisure travelers alike will
feel equally at home at Buddy Dive. You will want to
save plenty of time to relax in a hammock and lounge
by one of the three pools.
BONUS
• Eat, Sleep, (Buddy) Dive
• Top dive operations
• Full activity center with excursions and ecotours
• “Drive Thru” with a two-lane air/Nitrox fill station
• “Buddy Rangers” Kid’s Club
Free Nitrox
and half off
food & drink
Apr 15 to
May 31
Belmar Oceanfront Apartments
Belmar Oceanfront Apartments is an upscale
oceanfront property on Bonaire with 20 condos,
swimming pool and two sunbathing/dive docks.
Independent, intimate and inspirational are words that
go hand-in-hand at this place of tranquility. Luxury
condominiums, personal, top-quality service, as well
as wireless internet access are just a few of the things
that make this PADI Gold Palm Resort a very special
place. The on-site dive shop facility, Buddy Dive, offers
a complete retail store and full gear rentals to provide
for any and all diving needs during your stay. Belmar
Oceanfront Apartments is the place to discover the
beauty of Bonaire.
• Luxurious
• Full service dive shop on premises
• Privacy and personal attention
• Wireless internet access
• Complimentary breakfast when arriving with Continental Airlines flights
BONUS
Stay for 7
days and
pay for only
6 in Jul
and Aug
Caribbean Club Bonaire
Caribbean Club Bonaire features cottages, studios
and penthouses with breathtaking ocean views from
Bonaire’s West coast. Guests enjoy the on-premises
full-service dive shop, restaurant, bar and swimming
pool. In addition to the great diving, Caribbean Club
Bonaire is the perfect place to discover the many
other eco-adventures Bonaire has to offer. Bird
watching, hiking, mountain biking, cave exploration,
snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing and trips to the
Washington Slagbaai Park or the Goto Lake are just
a few of the activities to explore while staying at
Caribbean Club Bonaire.
© ETHAN GORDON
• Dive, relax and explore Bonaire
• Affordable, great value
• Cozy laid-back resort with full resort facilities
• PADI dive shop on property
• The ultimate get-away for rest seekers, divers and eco-adventures
12
bonaire
Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino with diving by Divi Dive Bonaire
Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino is located
oceanside, surrounded by 88 spectacular dive sites.
Colorful, unpretentious and fun, the Divi Flamingo Beach
Resort & Casino is the perfect base for vacationers
drawn to the sleepy island of Bonaire and her worldclass Caribbean diving. Spacious oceanfront and
garden view rooms and suites are decorated in bright,
tropical colors. Caribbean views, white beaches and
tropical waters await you just steps away from your own
private balcony or patio. The resort offers two
restaurants, three bars, a casino, two pools, fitness
center, day spa, boutique and car rental. The Divi Dive
Bonaire facility is unmatched on the island.
• Walking distance to town
• Only casino on the island with four blackjack tables, slots and more
• Fitness center and day spa
• Hertz car rental, grocery store and novelty shop on-site
• House reef drops to 134 feet in front of resort
Captain Don’s Habitat
Captain Don’s Habitat is the “home of diving freedom”
and is a leader in the diving industry of Bonaire. You’re
sure to find what you are looking for with the many
varied accommodation types. Whether you’re a novice
or a seasoned pro, stay and dive with the leader in the
diving industry on Bonaire, Captain Don’s Habitat.
Habitat Divers is a PADI 5 Star Gold Palm Instructor
Development Center, PADI National Geographic and
TDI/SDI Training Facility. In addition, Captain Don’s offers
dining at Rum Runners restaurant, wireless internet and
Intermezzo Day Spa, all located conveniently at Habitat.
On your next visit to Bonaire, stay where “Diving
Freedom” was born—Captain Don’s Habitat.
• Tanks available 24 hours a day...the home of “Diving Freedom”
• Three boat departures daily, plus night boat dives
• Exclusive ScubaPro rental equipment
• FREE Nitrox upgrades available
• Rebreather/Tri-Mix training and diving available on-site
BONUS
Free
upgrades
available
on-site
Harbour Village Beach Club Bonaire with diving by Great Adventures Bonaire
One of Bonaire’s most exclusive resorts, this property is
situated on a beautiful private beach alongside a private
marina amid lush landscaping. Amenities include a pool
and sundeck, a spa, fitness center and tennis courts.
La Balandra Beach Bar & Grill—built in the style of a
Spanish galleon—offers excellent cuisine in a breathtaking
oceanfront location. Choose from courtyard and
marinafront rooms as well as 16 luxurious beachfront
suites. Great Adventures Bonaire, a PADI 5 Star Gold
Palm Dive and Watersports Center, is on-site and offers
a full menu of dive services. Divers can take advantage
of unlimited shore diving with the wreck of the Our
Confidence just offshore.
© ETHAN GORDON
• A private beach ensures a peaceful and relaxing experience
• PADI 5 Star Gold Palm Resort offering a full range of instruction
• Dine in one of Bonaire’s most unique restaurants, La Balandra Beach Bar & Grill
• SASY for kids, snorkeling, kayaking and sailing also available
14
bonaire
Plaza Resort Bonaire with diving by Toucan Diving Center
Tranquil by nature, this is a resort where vibrant coral
reefs teem with amazing marine life just steps from one
of Bonaire’s finest beaches and “18 Palms” dive and
snorkel sites. Bonaire’s top rated dive operator—Toucan
Diving—is on-site and provides access to the
underwater world as well as topside adventure and yearround fun-shine for divers, non-divers, groups, and
families. Accommodations include spacious suites and
private villas. Dine at any of three casual restaurants and
enjoy two beachside bars, an outdoor pool with swimup bar, day-spa, fitness room, tennis and Aquakids
(ages 5-15). Conveniently located within minutes of the
airport, downtown, local dining and island attractions.
• Beachfront “everything” plus 18 Palms house reef just a few fin kicks away
• On-site Toucan Diving—Bonaire’s top rated PADI 5 Star Dive Center
• Standard Suites and Grand Suite Oceanview plus private villas with kitchens
• Outdoor freshwater pool with swim-up bar and year-round fun-shine!
• Three Restaurants, two bars, tourdesk, day spa and fitness, tennis
BONUS
Free Nitrox
plus 2-for-1
shore diving
May, Jun,
Aug & Sept
Sand Dollar Condominium Resort Bonaire with diving by Bonaire Dive & Adventure
Located a stone’s throw from Bari Reef, which boasts the
highest diversity of fish species (349!) in the Caribbean
according to fish surveys by the Reef Environmental
Education Foundation. The resort features some of the
island’s most spacious and comfortable studio, one-,
two-, and three-bedroom waterfront units. All units have
fully-equipped kitchens, spacious dining and living areas,
air-conditioned bedrooms, cable TV, in-room safe, patio
or balcony and spacious bathrooms. Bonaire Dive &
Adventure offers an impressive array of shore dive and
boat dive options plus adventure packages. Kids’
programs available for ages 3-12. Fish Eye Photo
provides photo rentals as well as photo/video instruction.
• Ocean views from each unit’s private porch or balcony
BONUS
• Spacious open floor plans offer all the comforts of home
Free
Nitrox
• Unlimited on-site shore diving on the Caribbean’s top reef, plus drive-up fill station
upgrades
• Excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, families and groups
• Mangrove kayaking, mountain biking, bird watching and guided snorkeling programs
Golden Reef Inn with diving by WannaDive Bonaire
Your home away from home! Self catering studios, oneroom apartments and one- and two-bedroom villas all
include full kitchens, air conditioning, cable TV, full baths
and private porch. On-site full-service dive shop,
WannaDive Bonaire, gift shop, pool, barbecue and
lounge area with laundry and daily maid services
available. Enjoy a Monday night local Kryoio barbecue
with Chef Gibi and a local Mariachi band. Daily
American-style breakfast buffet, free airport meet-andgreet and transfers available. Ask about custom diver,
non-diver and eco-adventure packages. Just a few
minutes walk to large resorts and the beach, and only a
minutes drive to town.
© ETHAN GORDON
• Voted BONHATA’s Small Property of the Year in 2005
• On-site full-service dive shop, 24-hour secured access, drive through tank fills
• Swimming pool, lounge, freshwater showers, laundry, on-site spa services
• Full-service resort at the fraction of the cost
• Concierge services available, free airport meet-and-greet, transfers included
16
BONUS
Children
under 12
stay free
cayman islands
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
When you know the sport, you know the spot.
Favorite Dive Sites
• Bloody Bay, Little Cayman
• Stingray City, Grand
Cayman
• Wreck of the Capt. Keith
Tibbetts, Cayman Brac
Topside Attractions
• Hell, Grand Cayman
• Atlantis Deep Sub
• Boatswain’s Turtle Farm
• Bonefishing, Little Cayman
• Climb the Bluff, Cayman Brac
CAYMAN BRAC
• Brac Caribbean Resort
• Carib Sands Beach Resort
Top-rated for decades, the Cayman Islands cater to divers in a manner which few destinations
can match. Grand Cayman and its sister islands Cayman Brac and Little Cayman have all
earned reputations as world renowned dive destinations. Crystal clear waters, the best wall
diving in the Caribbean, and encounters with the North Sound’s friendly stingray population
are but a few of the reasons that divers flock to this dive mecca. The East End of Grand
Cayman is also becoming a very popular area for divers. Here you will find schools of tarpon
and—in certain seasons—swarms of silversides which make for spectacular diving
experiences. The walls surrounding Cayman Brac and Little Cayman are epic. Bloody Bay
Wall in Little Cayman is often referred to as the best wall dive in the Caribbean.
Aqua Bay Club
Courtyard by Marriott
Hyatt Regency Grand Cayman
Lacovia Condominiums
London House
Red Sail Sports
Regal Beach Club
Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman
Westin Casuarina Resort & Spa
Villas of the Galleon
Wyndham Sunshine Suites
LITTLE CAYMAN
• Conch Club Condominiums
LIVE-ABOARDS
• Cayman Aggressor IV
Cobalt Coast Resort with diving by Divetech
Grand Cayman
This diver’s haven is located just a few miles north of
Seven Mile Beach on tranquil Boatswains Bay. Built in
Caribbean Great House style, Cobalt Coast has
established a reputation for laid-back luxury in an upscale,
casual atmosphere with island ambiance. Divetech at
Cobalt Coast Resort is a full-service dive operator,
complemented with a staff of 16 dive instructors and
offering over 30 courses from learning to dive resort
courses for those who have never tried the sport, to a
variety of advanced training options. Two-tank daily boat
trips are 100% computer diving for longer profiles—a free
dive computer rental is included for all guests.
© CARLOS VILLOCH
• Dive Grand Cayman’s pristine North Wall and explore the West side
• Two custom dive boats with camera table, 12 or 16 divers maximum
• 80 cubic foot tanks are standard, but Nitrox, 63 and 100 are available on request
• Free dive computer rental included on all dive packages
• Unlimited shore diving from two great locations on boat diving days
18
BONUS
Free dive
computer
rental
reedom
© CARLOS VILLOCH
GRAND CAYMAN
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The Cayman Islands, the destination that pioneered the sport of SCUBA diving,
offers the greatest selection of deep and shallow dive sites anywhere in the
Caribbean. From dramatic, plunging walls to vibrant reefs. Macro photography
to pristine wrecks. And with dedicated dive resorts that can accomodate even
the largest groups and a variety of experienced, well equipped operators willing
to work around any schedule, Cayman has earned a reputation as the world’s
premier destination for dive groups.
Just a few more reasons why, for all that diving is, was and will always be, the
Cayman Islands remains the world’s unquestioned leader.
Freedom, safety, adventure.
cayman islands
Grand Cayman
With 69 luxurious, fully-equipped
two- and three-bedroom villas with
ocean views, Grandview specializes
in concierge services—guests take
care of the relaxing and the staff
provides the best diving, golfing,
spa, and culinary experiences.
Diving with Don Foster’s Dive.
Compass Point Dive Resort with diving by Ocean Frontiers
Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort with diving by Red Sail Sports Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman
Located on the East End of Grand Cayman, this resort
offers a secluded, tranquil setting with adventure right on
your doorstep—you can roll out of bed and onto the
waiting dive boats. Enjoy the pristine reefs and
breathtaking wall dives that the East End is renowned for
with a style of service that will surpass your expectations.
Enjoy the luxury accommodations that Compass Point
offers—all oceanfront condominiums, beautifully
appointed with stylish island décor and fully equipped
with all the comforts of home. On land, relax on the
beach or in a hammock, have a BBQ or enjoy the crystal
blue Caribbean Sea from your own private balcony.
• Roll out of bed and onto your own waiting dive boat
• Full “Dive Valet” services make gear handling, storing, rinsing and set up hassle-free
• Free wireless internet access is available throughout the resort
• All rooms are non-smoking with central air conditioning and ceiling fans
• Enjoy breathtaking wall dives with service that will surpass your expectations
BONUS
Free
night
dive
Sunset House
Grand Cayman
Discover the grace of this intimate Grand Cayman
experience—a resort filled with local furnishings in
warm colors of sea and sun, sky and sand, making it
difficult to tell where the hotel ends and the island
begins. All 295 rooms are drenched in tropical hues of
melon, tangerine and avocado, accented with rich
dark woods. La Mer Spa, featuring renowned YonKa
therapy, includes four over-sized treatment rooms and
a couples suite with hot tub. Each of the four
restaurants and bars—offering guests an array of
choices—has also been reinvented with new names,
decor and cuisine. Diving with Red Sail Sports.
Little Cayman Beach Resort
• Unlimited free shore diving just steps from your room with all dive packages
• Breakfast, transfers, welcome rum punch and gift included in packages
• One mile south of George Town, 10 minute drive from airport
• One of the Caribbean’s most distinguished dive resorts
• Celebrating its 50th anniversary
BONUS
Ask
about our
seasonal
specials
Comfort Suites Grand Cayman with diving by Don Foster’s Dive
Little Cayman
Located on a private white sand beach, bordered by the
reef of South Hold Sound, this upscale resort is an
excellent retreat for those looking for world-class diving
and relaxation. Reef Divers is unlike any other dive shop
on the island and they are able to provide guests with
first-class service and amenities. Considered some of the
world’s best diving, the Bloody Bay Wall features
incredible reef architecture and marine life—the sea floor
stops at only 18 feet and plunges down a 6,000-foot
vertical cliff. With over 55 marked and protected dive sites
around Little Cayman, divers have the opportunity to dive
among over 500 types of fish and 100 different corals.
• Valet-style diving
• Full range of PADI courses available, including specialty courses
• Full-service underwater photo and video center
• Custom-built Newton dive boats
• International team of professional staff
© SECRET SEA VISIONS
BONUS
Kids under
16 stay free
in parents’
room
Brac Reef Beach Resort
Grand Cayman
This all-suite hotel offers comfortable suites and
studios—some with ocean views—all well-appointed
and spacious, equipped to cater to both short- and
long-term stays. Located in the heart of the Seven
Mile Beach area, the hotel offers all the amenities you
would expect from the Caribbean. Visit Stingers
Restaurant & Pool Bar, an open-air spot serving
lunch, dinner and tropical drinks. Stroll 100 yards from
the 45-foot long freshwater, free-form pool to the
edge of the sparkling waters on the famous Seven
Mile Beach. Diving with Don Foster’s Dive, a fullservice dive shop offering gear rental and lessons.
20
Grand Cayman
With a main shop at Casuarina Point
on the waterfront in South Sound
and a satellite shop at Comfort
Suites & Resorts along Seven Mile
Beach, Don Foster’s offers daily
two-tank and one-tank dives,
Stingray City trips and a free dive
shuttle from your hotel/condo.
• Centrally located on world-famous Seven Mile Beach within walking distance of entertainment
• Reflects tropical elegance delivered with exceptional service
• La Mer Spa offers an extensive plethora of treatments guaranteed to achieve bliss
• Private balconies—available with all rooms—offer exquisite views
• High speed wireless internet access available throughout the resort
Grand Cayman
With tropical Colonial furniture and bedding and Wi-Fi
internet access throughout the property, Sunset House
is located on the water’s edge with excellent diving right
offshore. Sunset Divers, the on-site dive operation, is
close to shore with an exciting, professional, customer
service-oriented staff. The resort offers the best dive
amenities—from comfortable accommodations, seven
custom dive boats, Nitrox and Cathy Church’s
Underwater Photo Center. The infamous My Bar—voted
Best of the Caribbean by Caribbean Travel & Life—and
the SeaHarvest Restaurant set amid the beautiful
grounds complete this diver’s paradise.
• AAA Diamond rated hotel
• Beach chairs and beach towels
• Freshwater pool and hot tub
• Diving with Don Foster’s Dive
• Full range of certification courses
Don Foster’s Dive
BONUS
Deluxe
continental
breakfast
daily
Cayman Brac
Experience the laid-back luxury of Brac Reef Beach
Resort. Kick off your shoes and bask in the beauty of
this tropical paradise, painted with secluded beach
vistas and hammock huts of storybook beauty. The
colorful furnishings of the beachfront rooms bring your
vacation spirit to life with amenities that include airconditioning, private baths, cable TV, phones, fans, hair
dryers, and coffee service. Most rooms have private
balconies or patios overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Internationally-trained chefs prepare menus with a
continental and Caribbean flair. Diving enthusiasts will
enjoy unparalleled service with Reef Divers.
• Dramatic bluff walls and over 50 dive sites with little current
• On-site Reef Photo and Video Center, valet-style diving
• Reef Divers offers a variety of courses and certifications
• Nights dives and day trips to Bloody Bay Wall are available
• Tropical Touch Day Spa and Polly’s Landing Boutique
BONUS
Kids under
16 stay free
in parents’
room
© TIM ROCK
Grandview Cayman
cayman islands
21
curaçao
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
Favorite Dive Sites
• Mushroom Forest
• Wreck of Superior Producer
• Hell’s Corner
Topside Attractions
• Kura Hulanda
• Ostrich Farm
• Floating Bridge
• Avila Hotel
• Curaçao Marriott Beach
Resort & Emerald Casino
• Scuba Do
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
There’s More...
Curaçao’s reputation as a world-class dive destination has grown to the extent that it no
longer exists in the shadow of its sister island, Bonaire. Its shores are surrounded by beautiful
coral reefs and a number of wrecks including the Superior Producer and two sunken
tugboats. As the largest of the ABC islands, Curaçao has miles of coastline dotted with
isolated beaches, a bustling downtown with great shopping, historical sites, nightlife, and
exciting diving right offshore. The island is also known for its picturesque Dutch architecture
which is evident in downtown Punda and in the Landuis plantation homes scattered across
the island. The west end is largely undeveloped and provides nature lovers with plenty of areas
to explore and enjoy.
22
curaçao
Surrounded by tropical hills, each
of the luxury apartments offers an
exciting view over the bay. The
beach below is great for swimming,
snorkeling and diving! The dive
center, Ocean Encounters West,
offers the full range of PADI
courses, quality equipment rental
and an air filling station.
Ocean Encounters
Habitat Curaçao with diving by Easy Divers
Experience an amazing dive operation with this family
owned and operated PADI 5 Star Gold Palm
International Dive Center, National Geographic Dive
Center, IANTD Technical Training and DSAT TecRec
facility. With five locations, five boats, five classrooms,
150 sets of rental gear, 70 lockers, and over 250 tanks,
Ocean Encounters is set up to meet the needs of every
diver on Curaçao. Serving Breezes Resort, Lions Dive,
Avila Beach and Lodge Kura Hulanda, the Ocean
Encounters “One Stop Dive Shop” gives dive guests the
power to dive all of Curaçao with just one operator—
one of the best dive operations on the island.
• Dolphin Boat Dives twice a week
• Day trips to Klein Curacao twice a week
• Around the clock diving—any day, any time
• Nitrox, Helium available, rebreather-friendly
• Snorkel trips every afternoon, kayak, paddle boat, sunfish rentals
BONUS
Free
night dive
between
Apr 15 and
May 15
Lions Dive & Beach Resort with diving by Ocean Encounters
Located along Curaçao’s western coast in idyllic
seclusion, this dive dedicated resort features ocean and
garden view rooms as well as two-bedroom lanai villas.
Enjoy Ocean’s Restaurant & Bar and take a dip in the
infinity pool with a spectacular view of the Caribbean
sunset. On-site Easy Divers is a PADI 5-Star Gold Palm
Resort and National Geographic Dive Center offering
two-tank boat dives and Nitrox. Over 35 different dive
sites are within an hour by boat. A stunning house reef is
available for 24/7 shore diving. Spa services are available
on the property—offering a selection of massages—as
well as a game room and boutique. Shuttles to town are
available on a regular basis.
Sunset Waters Beach Resort
• Oceanview and oceanfront rooms and apartments
• On-site PADI 5-Star Gold Palm IDC, IANTD and DSAT TecRec Training
• Body Beach Wellness Club
• Fine dining restaurant, Nemo
• Casual beach bar and restaurant, Hemingway
BONUS
Free access
to Sea
Aquarium
Lodge Kura Hulanda & Beach Club with diving by Ocean Encounters
Breathtaking Coral Cliffs surrounded by a white sand
beach create the ideal setting for Curaçao’s newest
luxury resort. This peaceful, tropical getaway offers the
tranquility of a secluded island hideaway coupled with a
relaxing and alluring beachfront retreat on the island’s
West End. Enjoy non-motorized water sports activities—
including snorkeling, wind surfing, sunfish boating,
paddle boating, kayaking—or simply relax on a sun float.
The resort—a prime dive destination on Curaçao—
offers diving through PADI-certified Ocean Encounters,
situated on the property. This fully-equipped, on-site
dive shop will arrange a wide assortment of diving
courses and excursions.
• Only five-star dive resort in Curaçao
• Night dives offered
• Non-motorized water sports available
• Very close to most major dive sites on the island
• Dive shop located on property’s beach
© ETHAN GORDON
Home to Seascape Dive &
Watersports, a PADI Gold Palm
Dive Center with an expanded fleet
of dive boats stocked with double
ladders for easy entry, a freshwater
shower and more. For non-divers,
snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboating,
and all facilities at the full-service
Hilton Curaçao are accessible.
• Diving 24/7 year round
• Professional and providing a high standard of service
• Wireless internet is available for those who wish to stay connected
• Close to some of Curaçao’s best natural attractions
• Ask about coral spawning packages and special events
Located on a beautiful white sandy beach, featuring
Ocean Encounters, a PADI 5-Star Gold Palm
International Dive Center, and near historic downtown
Willemstad, guests will experience the Caribbean at
its best with recent upgrades, renovations and a
friendly, charming and sporty demeanor. Divers will
enjoy exciting wreck, wall and reef dive sites—none
more than 25 minutes away. Beach lovers will find an
oasis of rest and relaxation. For dining, guests can
enjoy fine or casual dining at one of the resort’s two
restaurants or nearby outlets right on the beach.
24
Hilton Curaçao
This intimate boutique hotel is renowned for its beautiful
crescent-shaped beach, serene and secluded location,
easiest access with Sunset Divers to Curaçao’s premier
diving sites—including Mushroom Forest—and
spectacular snorkeling and scuba in the lagoon and on
the teeming house reef. End your lazy or fun-packed day
with a relaxing cocktail on the terrace and experience the
striking sunsets which paint a different picture every
evening. With amazing panoramic views of the Caribbean
Sea from oversized oceanfront rooms, calm and tranquil
waters, diving with an active concern for the environment
and snorkeling in the shallow waters of the turquoise
lagoon, this is truly the Life Aquatic!
• Beach volleyball, hiking, dance classes, kayaking and more
• On-site Sunset Divers is a PADI Resort Dive Operator and Training Center
• Full schedule of exciting trips and tours to fascinating attractions
• Swedish or hot rock massage either in your room, on the beach or at the pool
• internet Café available
Breezes Curaçao Resort & Casino
The first super-inclusive resort in the Southern
Caribbean, the Dutch flavor of this island will add a
new twist to the Breezes vacation that guests have
enjoyed for years. Super-Inclusive isn’t just about
more. It’s about better. It’s about offering the finest
beaches and the most comfortable accommodations.
It’s being greeted with a friendly smile when you arrive
and warm wishes when you leave. It’s world-class
chefs and world-recognized golf and tennis pros. It’s
about promises made and promises kept. This diver’s
paradise is adjacent to both the pristine Undersea
National Park and entertaining Sea Aquarium. Diving
with Ocean Encounters.
• Complimentary shore dives available right into the National Underwater Park
• Famous dive site called the Car Pile, right in front of the resort
• This is a perfect site for a night dive
• We provide all scuba gear for the shore dives
• Equipment rental is included in the price of all supplemental dives
© ETHAN GORDON
All West Apartments & Diving
curaçao
25
dominica
© ETHAN GORDON
Like a scene from Jurassic
Park, you might expect
prehistoric creatures to
emerge from Dominica’s
lush peaks and rainforests.
But it is in its surrounding
waters where divers will
experience dramatic coral
formations filled with life.
Topside, be sure to visit the
Morne
Trois
Pitons
UNESCO World Heritage
Site and Boiling Lake.
•
•
•
•
Anchorage Hotel
Cabrits Dive Center
Seaside Dive Resort
Sunset Bay Club
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80’
Favorite Dive Sites
• Soufriere Pinnacles
• Champagne Reef
• Dangleben’s Pinnacles
• L’Abym
Topside Attractions
• Morne Trois Pitons UNESCO
World Heritage Site
• Boiling Lake in the Valley of
Desolation
• Trafalgar Falls
• Hike up Morne Anglaise
Castle Comfort Dive Lodge with diving by Dive Dominica
Castle Comfort Dive Lodge is the epitome of the small,
intimate dive resort. In this traditional-style guest
house you instantly feel like a member of the family.
Casual, relaxed, and as comfortable as your favorite
pair of slippers, Castle Comfort rests directly on the
edge of the ocean with the green hills of Dominica
sitting at her back. At Castle Comfort Dive Lodge, they
offer a full measure of tranquil tropicality—life lived in
harmony with both the earth and the ocean. In
addition to diving and whale-watching activities,
guided tours and hiking excursions to any site in
Dominica can be arranged by the staff. On-site Dive
Dominica caters to your diving needs.
There’s More...
• Nestled between the edge of the ocean and the green hills of Dominica
• Only 14 rooms—ideal for individuals, couples, or small groups
• Diving, snorkeling, whale watching, guided tours and hikes and more
• Wireless internet service available
• On-site Dive Dominica
Fort Young Hotel
Nestled at the edge of the cliff, overlooking the
Caribbean Sea and cradled in the beauty of Dominica’s
mountainous landscape, the Fort Young Hotel features
71 fully air-conditioned rooms with ceiling fans, direct
dial telephones, internet service, cable TV and a
terrace or balcony. Room categories include the cozy
standard, the comfortable oceanview and the spacious
deluxe oceanfront. The old world charm of Fort Young
Hotel comes from the combination of unique
architecture, rich history and modern convenience. The
on-site Fort Young Hotel Dive Centre offers daily diving
and snorkeling, certification courses, whale watching
and equipment rental.
© MICHAEL LAWRENCE
• 90% whale sightings year round
• Tour desk on-site for all land excursions
• Dive shop on premises, minutes from world-class diving
• Close to local shops
• Green Globe Destination
26
OF OUR VOLCANOES
are notorious underachievers.
They can’t even rise above sea level, which means they
provide some dramatic pinnacle diving. Imagine a volcanic peak—covered with
healthy, vibrant corals and a cascade of tropical fish—rising almost to the surface,
then dropping a sheer 1,500 feet. Imagine diving the Caribbean in the morning,
hiking to secluded waterfalls in the afternoon, or watching sperm whales and
dolphins—all in the same day. Just imagine what tomorrow will bring.
Both the north and south
coasts of the Dominican
Republic have a variety of
dive sites from wrecks to
reefs as well as a number of
cavern and cave dives. The
area of Sosua is popular on
the north as well as sites
around
Cayos
Siete
Hermanos. On the south
coast, the sites around
Pedernales
and
the
coastline
of
Parque
Nacional del Este offer
great reef diving.
Sunscape Casa del Mar La Romana
This spectacular resort offers
fabulous hospitality and countless
diversions for your entertainment.
Day and night, the fun never stops.
The beach, pool, warm tropical
breezes, gourmet á la carte
restaurants and tropical drinks are
all part of your Unlimited-Fun®
escape. Diving with Sea Pro.
puerto rico
Dreams Punta Cana
Along one of the finest oceanfronts
on the island, this resort offers a
glorious view from most guest
rooms. Dreams Punta Cana
provides Unlimited-Fun® around an
expansive free-form swimming pool
that winds through the property,
complete with waterfalls and swimup bar. Diving with Sea Pro.
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . . . . .80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . .60-100’
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .79-81°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .60-70’
Favorite Dive Sites
• La Caleta Underwater Park
• Wreck of the Limon
• Wreck of the Hickory
• Cabrera Caverns
Favorite Dive Sites
• Mona/Desecheo Islands
• Culebra
• Parguera
• Vieques
Topside Attractions
• Hiking and cascading
• Caving
• Windsurfing/kiteboarding
There’s More...
•
•
•
•
•
Topside Attractions
Bioluminescence Bay
El Yunque Rainforest
Old San Juan
Surfing in Rincon
Camuy Caverns
The secret is out—Puerto
Rico has some great diving.
All sides of the island have
something to explore. There
are a number of other
activities to round out your
vacation including golf,
surfing, horseback riding,
cave tours, and the only
rainforest in the U.S. And be
sure to plan to spend a day
exploring historic Old San
Juan where quaint hotels,
fine restaurants and excellent
shopping offer a glimpse of
Puerto Rico’s sophisticated
culture and lifestyle.
© BILL HARRIGAN
dominican republic
Parador Posada Porlamar with diving by Parguera Divers
grenada
Favorite Dive Sites
• Wrecks of the Bianca C, the
Shakem, and the Ile de Ronde
Topside Attractions
• Hike Seven Sisters Waterfalls
• Nutmeg factory at Gouyave
• Grenada Grand Beach Resort
The Bianca C is one of the Caribbean’s most impressive
wreck dives, but there’s much more to diving in Grenada
than this 600’ sunken cruise ship. Ride the currents over
coral gardens and dive the outlying wrecks and reefs
frequented by larger pelagics. Above the surface, the Spice
Island offers a wealth of eco-adventures from waterfalls
and rainforests to volcano hikes as well as some interesting
sights in the capital of St. George, one of the Caribbean’s
most picturesque harbors.
True Blue Bay Resort
Coyaba Beach Resort
Parguera
Enjoy relaxation, visual splendor and gastronomical
delight at this small hotel. Be dazzled by
Phosphorescent Bay. Find majestic coral formations,
calm seas, perfect weather and dozens of unspoiled
small islands full of life. Diving with on-site Parguera
Divers, with custom 30-foot dive vessel offering two
daily tank dives to the wall, night dives, snorkel tours,
scuba courses and Nitrox. Parguera Divers also has
an additional main retail store located on the
southwest coast of the island, in the Shopping
Center El Muelle.
Peter Hughes Wind Dancer
Copamarina Beach Resort with diving by Sea Ventures Dive Copamarina
Guanica
This beautifully landscaped, 20-acre tropical resort is
situated on an isolated half-mile crescent of Caribbean
beachfront. The resort offers the finest in relaxation,
dining, diving, sailing and eco-tourist wonders to create
the perfect vacation experience. Copamarina has
another outstanding feature—less than a mile from the
resort’s shores is one of the world’s most outstanding
dive sites. The area is largely unexplored, and every dive
has the potential to be a unique underwater adventure.
On-site Sea Ventures Dive Copamarina caters to divers
of all levels from snorkelers to certified dive
professionals, including PADI certification courses.
There’s More...
True Blue Bay is the perfect place
for a dive vacation, with two pools, a
restaurant specializing in West
Indian and Mexican cuisine, Dodgy
Dock Bar, boutique, car rental, yacht
charter and Aquanauts Grenada.
The only dedicated dive resort on
the island, with special equipment
and a full range of scuba classes.
28
Coyaba Beach Resort is perched
on the water’s edge of worldfamous Grand Anse Beach. Enjoy a
classic Caribbean vacation with fine
personalized service. Dive with the
PADI Gold Palm Center and enjoy
complimentary golf and nonmotorized water sports. Diving by
EcoDive & Trek Grenada.
FAJARDO
• Fajardo Inn
RINCÓN
• Taino Divers
There’s More...
• On-site dive boat
• Dry storage locker for all dive gear
• Personalized service guaranteed on every dive trip
• Enriched air Nitrox available
© LILY MAK
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .60-80’
Best Time . . . . . .Dec to Aug
The M/V Wind Dancer, a member
of the renowned Peter Hughes
Dancer Fleet, treats 18 divers to
the exciting diving in Grenada and
the Grenadines from July through
November. Wind Dancer offers all
of the luxury amenities that have
become the hallmark of the
Dancer Fleet.
• Tropical refreshments and snacks on all dive trips
• Daily gear care and storage
• Free dive computers and wet suits
• Fully-equipped and updated operation
Rincon Beach Resort
Rincón
This four-star boutique hotel can
please the most challenging
traveler—serene ocean waters,
countless aquatic sports, whale
watching, and the most impressive
sunsets on the island. For the
epicureans, choose from exquisite
Brasas Restaurant or Pelican Grill.
29
saba & statia
st. kitts & nevis
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .76-80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . .80-100’
Favorite Dive Sites
SABA
• Diamond Rock
• Third Encounter
• Eye of the Needle
• New Guinea Reef
• Shark Shoal
STATIA
• North Point
• Dooby’s Creek
• Double Wreck
• Bluebead Hole
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . . . . .80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . .80-100’
Topside Attractions
• Scenic Railway
• Plantation Tours
• World-Class Golf
• St. Kitts Marriott Resort
There’s More...
Topside Attractions
SABA
• Hike up to the Elfin Forest
on Mount Scenery
• Sample Saba Spice Liqueur
STATIA
Saba rises steeply out of the sea up into the
clouds, giving the island a mythical aura
which extends well into the depths of the
Saba Marine Park. Cloud forests above and
pinnacles below depict the steep
topography of the underwater landscape of
Saba. Quaint, quiet, and uniquely exotic,
Saba is a great destination for divers looking
for an exclusive diving retreat.
Caribbean Explorer II
Experience the most scenic islands
in the Caribbean with a unique
itinerary combining pristine diving
and historic island tours. The vessel
features an expansive dive deck, airconditioned double staterooms with
private baths and a maximum of 18
guests. A large salon and sundeck
provide areas to relax.
30
Statia has sites ranging from reefs, walls,
and canyons as well as a number of
historical wrecks. Protected and managed
by the St. Eustatius National Parks, these
sites offer frequent encounters with a wide
variety of marine life including sharks, rays,
and other pelagics. Be sure to make the hike
to the The Quill, a 2,000-foot dormant
volcano with a rainforest nestled in its crater.
© CARLOS VILLOCH
© CARLOS VILLOCH
• Hike the Quill
• Visit Fort Oranje
• Visit Fort de Windt
• Stroll through Zeelandia
SABA
•
•
•
•
El Momo Cottages
Juliana’s Hotel
Queens Garden Resort
Sea Saba
You'll find reef, wreck, and drift diving on these uncrowded and unspoiled islands. Underwater
tunnels and canyons are filled with a wide variety of schooling fish and healthy corals that are
relatively undiscovered by divers. Above the surface, St. Kitts offers a smorgasbord of activities
from eco-adventures to championship golf. The enchanting island of Nevis—from the top of
the 3,232-foot Nevis Peak to the depths of the clear waters offshore—has much to explore,
including nature, historical places of interest, trails and hiking, and marine exploration.
There’s More...
The Old Gin House with diving by Golden Rock Divers
Oualie Beach Resort
Owners Glenn and Michele Faires are focused on
customer satisfaction—nothing pleases them more than
sharing the amazing diving and small island charm they
have found on Statia. Concern for their guests carries
over to The Old Gin House which is a historical landmark,
full of ambiance, with only 18 rooms. Golden Rock
Divers offers flexible dive schedules and dive site
selections—just some of the examples of the
commitment to guest fulfillment that filters through the
entire operation. The dive staff is very knowledgeable and
attentive to the needs of both the individual and group
diver. Open since 1995, Golden Rock Divers is a PADI
Gold Palm Resort and National Geographic Dive Center.
• Short boat rides with surface interval on shore
• Flexible dive time to suit your schedule
• Free one-on-one underwater photo tips
• Guaranteed dive trip to the impressive Charley Brown wreck
• Shore dive or snorkel the historical sunken warehouse district
Bird Rock Beach Hotel
A favorite of water sports lovers, this gingerbread
cottage resort is dotted with hammocks and set
directly on the beach. The casual restaurant and bar is
a popular island hangout featuring string, jazz and
steel bands. A perfect location for small groups, with
outstanding service and comfortable accommodations—
plus you can experience the thrill of seeing the green
vervet monkeys nearby. On-site Scuba Safaris—in
operation since 1984—is the only dual facility in St.
Kitts and Nevis offering PADI and NAUI certifications.
Scuba Safaris offers superior knowledge and
experience of local waters, numerous dive sites and
varying weather conditions.
• Local Caribbean beer and rum punch is served after your dive experience
• Scuba Safaris is one of the few dive centers that will carry and store your dive gear
• Scuba Safaris is fully-equipped and provides updated equipment for your diving convenience
• Night dives are also available
• For those who love to view from the surface, try the 90-minute Snorkel Safari
This exclusive hotel is ideal for
families, divers and honeymooners,
offering the personal service of a
family-owned resort. Each suite has
cable TV, phone, air-conditioning,
private bathroom, and an oceanview
patio or balcony. On-site Dive St.
Kitts is the most complete dive
operation on the island.
31
st. lucia
st. vincent
• Island Divers of St. Lucia
Nestled along a cliff overlooking the
sea, this laid-back little village is on
the serene west coast. Its secluded
location is a perfect hideaway for
relaxation offering water sports, a
fitness center, and a massage
therapist. Enjoy island excursions or
experience the underwater world
with Island Divers of St. Lucia.
32
Hidden within most of us is the fantasy of discovering
an uncharted island. Discover Young Island Resort, an
impossibly romantic private island resort surrounded by
clear waters, located just 200 yards offshore of St.
Vincent. Featuring 29 oceanview cottages, some luxury
accommodations with private plunge pools, excellent
dining, water sports and tennis. Spa Kalina sits among
the tropical foliage on the hillside of Young Island and
offers a full menu of indulgent spa treatments. The
freshwater pool is surrounded by palm trees and the
staff caters to your every whim. Service at Young Island
is as it should be—always with pleasure. Diving with Bill
Tewes’ Dive St. Vincent.
Topside Attractions
• Rainforest Tours
• Whale Watching
• Mountain Biking
• A Caribbean resort with rustic charm
• Experience diving with Bill Tewes’ Dive St. Vincent
• Relaxing days and romantic evenings with live entertainment
• Delicious, innovative meals served under thatched gazebos at the water’s edge
• Cottages with refrigerator, safe, fans, garden showers and private patio
A spectacularly scenic resort hideaway set amidst a 600acre tropical estate with two beaches bordering pristine
coral reefs, resort facilities include 49 rooms in a unique
hillside/beachside setting, two restaurants/bars, boutiques,
art gallery, 42-foot day sailing yacht and a full-service
spa. Jade Mountain is Anse Chastanet’s new and
exclusive resort-within-a-resort, boasting grand
sweeping spaces beyond your imagination and an
extravagantly-sized private infinity pool offering infinite
views of the twin Pitons. Scuba St. Lucia, the on-site
PADI Gold Palm/SSI platinum scuba center offers a full
dive program. Dive groups receive tailor-made diving
schedules with exclusive dive boat use.
• Unique island wood handmade furniture
• World cuisine by award-winning chefs
• Kai Belté full-service spa
• On-site PADI Gold Palm/SSI Platinum scuba center
• Reef-front with 150+ species at the base of the Pitons
Known as the Jewels of the
Caribbean, St. Vincent and
the Grenadines cascade
through the Caribbean like
precious gems in a
necklace. Each island has
its own distinct character
both above and below the
waterline. St. Vincent has
established itself as the
Critter Capital of the
Caribbean. Bequia offers
some great drift diving and
pelagic encounters. The
tiny islands offer everything
from shallow protected
coral gardens to drop-offs.
Young Island with diving by Bill Tewes’ Dive St. Vincent
Anse Chastanet Resort & Jade Mountain with diving by Scuba St. Lucia
There’s More...
Ti Kaye Village Resort
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . . . . .80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . .80-100’
BONUS
Free
gourmet
welcome
amenity
Dive Fair Helen at Marigot Bay
Step back in time and imagine lush mangroves
bordering the pristine and turquoise Caribbean Sea with
breathtaking sunsets—it’s no wonder author James A.
Michener described Marigot Bay as “the most beautiful
bay in the Caribbean.” This bay plays host to quaint and
luxurious resorts including Marigot Beach Club housed
directly on the beach and accessible only by sea. This
bay is also home to Dive Fair Helen—owned and
managed by an environmentalist, the dive trips take on
a historic and cultural flavor with the entire island as a
footprint. Visit remote islet by kayak, enjoy turtle
watching, hiking and camping experiences and of
course exciting snorkel and scuba diving tours.
• Full-service PADI Dive Operation and Training Center
• Custom built 47-foot and 39-foot dive boats with fresh water, rest rooms, easy entry and exit
• The prime dive sites on the island start within a 10 minute boat ride from the dive center
• Customized dive schedules and boat charters for groups
tobago
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .77-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .50-80’
Best Time . . . . . .Dec to Aug
Favorite Dive Sites
• Cathedral, Speyside
• Bookends, Speyside
• Diver’s Dream
• M/V Maverick
Topside Attractions
• Visit Argyle Waterfalls
• Mountain Biking
• Roti Stands
• Birdwatching Mecca
•
•
•
•
•
At the southern tip of the Caribbean chain and just off the
South American coast, this mountainous and verdant
island is as rich underwater as above. Its reefs benefit from
nutrients which flow from Venezuela’s Orinoco River
bringing a rich payload of plankton and micro-organisms
which attract species such as manta rays, eagle rays,
hammerheads, and whale sharks. Experience all of
Tobago’s topside attractions including hikes through
rainforests to stunning waterfalls, sea kayaking, mountain
biking and bird watching.
Grafton Beach Resort
Peter Hughes Wind Dancer
Located on Stonehaven Bay on the
leeward side of Tobago, in close
proximity to the airport in the capital
of Scarborough. Set on a beautiful
hillside, this fully all-inclusive, family
friendly resort provides warm and
comfortable accommodations and
a certified dive center on-site with a
variety of watersports.
M/V Wind Dancer offers an
opportunity for the experienced
diver to explore the unique marine
environment surrounding Tobago in
just one week, while delivering the
legendary level of service both
above and below the water that
divers from around the world have
come to expect from Peter Hughes.
Aqua Marine Dive
Blue Waters Inn
Manta Lodge
Tobago Dive Experience
Wild Turtle Dive
There’s More...
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
© ETHAN GORDON
The twin peaks of the Pitons
dominate the landscape of
this lush, exotic island
where
the
dramatic
topography extends well
below the surface to its
submerged volcanic ridges.
Large barrel sponges, black
coral trees, and huge
gorgonians decorate the
drop-offs. Between dives,
explore the rainforests on
mountain bikes, on foot or
4x4 safaris, venture out into
the blue in search of whales,
or pamper yourself with
relaxing spa services.
33
turks & caicos
turks & caicos
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
•
•
•
•
Dive Provo
Provo
Dive Provo is your guarantee of a pleasurable vacation,
offering a varied dive schedule and the most
comprehensive choice of dive sites including West Caicos,
Grace Bay, Northwest Point, Sandbore Channel and
more. Providers of unrivaled customer service, Dive Provo
guests enjoy full-service features including daily gear set,
post dive gear rinsing and storing. Divers need never lift
their bag from the day they arrive until they leave. Dive
Provo provides a full range of scuba instruction (PADI 5Star, SSI & NAUI) as well as hotel/dive packages to suit
your taste. Dive groups are always welcome at Dive Provo
and private charters can be arranged.
Favorite Dive Sites
West Caicos wall
Northwest Point, Provo
French Cay
Grand Turk Wall
Topside Attractions
• Stingray Encounter
GRAND TURK
• Salt Raker Inn
PROVO
• Sibonne Beach Hotel
• The Sands at Grace Bay
• Tradewinds Condotel
• The most comprehensive dive schedule on island—two tank dives visit eight diverse dive areas
• Three modern boats with showers, rinse tanks, shade, wide easy-exit ladders and marine head
• Offering divers the freedom to plan and execute their own dives and explore at their own pace
• PADI 5-Star facility offers comprehensive training for all levels of certification
• Packages with a wide variety of accommodations from budget to luxury
Comfort Suites Turks & Caicos
Royal West Indies Resort
Turks & Caicos Explorer II
Provo
Set amid tropical gardens at Grace
Bay Beach, the adjacent Ports of
Call Shopping Villages offer a variety
of restaurants, bars and shops.
Spacious junior suites feature bright
Caribbean decor. Diving with Dive
Provo and golf nearby. Enjoy free
continental breakfast poolside.
Provo
Nestled on 12 miles of white sand
beach on Grace Bay, this intimate
colonial-style retreat boasts wellappointed suites surrounded by
lush tropical foliage and two
swimming pools that meander
through the property past the
restaurant to the beach.
Turks & Caicos Live-Aboard
Join the Turks & Caicos Explorer II
for a bit of luxury and amazing
diving. The vessel carries a
maximum of 20 guests in airconditioned staterooms with
private baths, and features large
common areas and an expansive
easy to use dive deck.
LIVE-ABOARDS
• Turks & Caicos Aggressor II
There’s More...
Oasis Divers
The beaches and crystal clear waters of the Turks & Caicos make for some of the most
beautiful coastlines in the world, but it is the underwater scenery that draws divers to
explore its surrounding depths. The largest and more developed of these islands is
Providenciales, commonly called Provo. Divers flock here to explore the reefs and dramatic
walls of North West Point, West Caicos, Pine Cay, and French Cay. A short flight to the
islands of Grand Turk and Salt Cay offers pristine diving and a true out-island experience
as well as a glimpse of what life was like in times past.
34
• Small groups and personal service
• Diving in Grand Turk and Salt Cay with short boat rides
• Complete gear handling and set-up
• Stingray encounters, whale watching and out island trips
• Three-dive-a-day packages available
BONUS
Free dive
with any
7 night /
6 dive day
package
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
Grand Turk
Experience an island of unspoiled beauty with Oasis
Divers—discover the diving professionals who know how
to deliver diving services for the vacation of a lifetime.
From beginners to advanced, the friendly, experienced
staff caters to your adventure requests, making the dive
experience exciting, uncrowded, fun and safe. Whether
diving on the breathtaking wall or exploring on a night
dive, you will always be comfortable with the gear
handling services and the short rides to the dive sites.
Offering accommodations in a handful of charming hotels
and inns, Oasis Divers provides the captivating hospitality
you expect on a small island.
35
virgin islands
virgin islands
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .79-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
Dive Tortola
Long Bay Beach Resort & Villas
Tortola, BVI
This full-service PADI dive facility
offers a wide array of experiences
among the islands, spits and cays
in the Sir Francis Drake Channel.
Dive notable wrecks, including the
RMS Rhone, underwater canyons
or reefs outcroppings teeming with
schooling fish.
Tortola, BVI
Hidden on 52 acres, this resort
epitomizes the natural beauty of BVI
with 157 rooms rising up the hillside
from the island’s finest beach. The
main building is akin to a plantation
house, the restaurant is in an 18thcentury sugar mill and the villas
evoke traditional island homes.
Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort
Cane Bay Dive
St. Croix, USVI
This sophisticated retreat is nestled
on a secluded beach. Enjoy a wide
range of activities including water
sports, freshwater pool, lit tennis
courts and world-class casino.
Rooms are spacious oceanfront
suites with king beds, and 20 hillside
villas offer full kitchens.
St. Croix, USVI
Since 1990, customer service has
been the top priority for this dive
operation. The Cane Bay Wall is right
at their doorstep, allowing them to
offer unique diving opportunities.
Combined with the relaxation of the
North Shore, it’s the perfect spot for
St. Croix’s #1 dive center.
Favorite Dive Sites
BVI
• Wreck of the RMS Rhone
• The Indians
• The Dogs
• Alice in Wonderland
USVI
• The WIT Shoal
• Salt River Canyon
• Frederiksted Pier
• Carvel Rock
Topside Attractions
BVI
• Sailing in famous Drake Bay
• The Baths, Virgin Gorda
• Bomba’s Full Moon Party
• Cooper Island Pirate’s Lair
USVI
• Visit St. Peter’s Greathouse
• St. Croix Cruzan Rum Factory
• Hike the Reef Bay Trail
ST. JOHN, USVI
TORTOLA, BVI
• Sail Caribbean Divers
LIVE-ABOARDS
• Cuan Law
There’s More...
© CARLOS VILLOCH
• St. John Dive Adventures
Carambola Beach Resort
The British Virgin Islands have drawn
divers in large numbers ever since the
filming of the movie, “The Deep,” which
featured the historic wreck of the Rhone.
Also one of the world’s top cruising grounds,
local operators offer rendezvous diving to
cruising divers who want to take advantage
of both the great diving and sailing that
these islands have to offer.
36
The U.S. Virgin Islands all feature great
diving, from wrecks to coral-covered piers
and walls. St. Thomas has its shopping and
beaches, St. Croix has its laid-back attitude
and rugged beauty, and quaint St. John has
its artistic eco-environment. Topside, you
can sail, snorkel, explore by foot, horseback,
mountain bike or car, tour the sugar
plantations and kayak through mangroves.
• Premier dive operator located on-site
• Three restaurants feature oceanside dining
• Large freshwater pool
• Exercise room
• Friday night Pirates Buffet with entertainment
© CARLOS VILLOCH
© ETHAN GORDON
St. Croix, USVI
The resort is spread over 28 acres of lush unspoiled
forest, mountains and oceanfront. The Carambola Beach
Resort is a boutique-style island retreat with oversized
suites featuring private screened-in porches, separate
sitting areas with pull-out sofa beds and a pristine
ambiance. The newly refurbished luxury suites are
appointed with granite and marble throughout, flat-screen
TVs, full-size refrigerators, microwave, porcelain-top
range stove and many more luxury upgrades. Diving is
provided by Cane Bay Dive, St. Croix’s premier dive and
snorkel center, in operation since 1990 with a focus on
customer service.
37
belize
belize
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
Wetsuit . . . . .1.5mm to 3mm
Aqua Dives Belize
Ambergris Caye
Belize’s ultimate dive center provides underwater and
above-water tours since 1998. Conveniently located
beachfront in San Pedro Town, Aqua Dives’ fleet of
custom dive boats can accommodate individuals and
groups. Belize is home of the largest living barrier reef in
the world. Swim through tunnels, or glide over the spurand-groove canyons that run perpendicular to the barrier
reef. Catch a glimpse of a variety of turtles, parrotfish,
angelfish, lobsters, sharks, rays, dozens of species of
corals and much more. Plunge into the famous Blue Hole
with its large limestone stalactites and resident reef and
bull sharks. Explore unique atoll, wall and drift dives.
Favorite Dive Sites
• Hol-Chan Cut, Ambergris
• M&M Caverns, Ambergris
• Blue Hole
• Glover’s Reef
Topside Attractions
• Day trip to Lamanai or Tikai
archaeological sites
• Snorkel at Shark-Ray Alley
AMBERGRIS CAYE
• Banana Beach Resort
• Journey’s End Resort
• Mayan Princess
• Ramon’s Village
• Fully-equipped PADI Dive Center offering courses, dive, snorkel and inland tours daily
• 52-foot dive boat is #1 in its class and provides a safe and comfortable dive experience
• Divemasters and instructors are PADI certified and speak English and Spanish
• Daily gear care and storage available, plus free transportation from all resorts
• Dive-only packages and hotel/dive packages available
SunBreeze Hotel with diving by Aqua Dives Belize
BELIZE CITY
Ambergris Caye
SunBreeze Hotel puts you right in the heart of Ambergris
Caye and all that the island has to offer. On the southern
edge of the friendly town of San Pedro, SunBreeze’s LatinCaribbean architectural design forms a wide crescent that
embraces the waterfront as well as its own private white
sand beach and palm and tropical garden complete with
a freshwater pool. On-site full-range PADI resort dive shop,
Aqua Dives Belize, offers daily morning and afternoon
dives to many of Belize’s top spots including Blue Hole,
Turneffe, Lighthouse and Glovers Reef. PADI certification
courses—including resort certification—snorkeling trips
and equipment are available.
• Hugh Parkey’s Belize
Adventure
CAYO
• Windy Hill Resort
GLOVER’S REEF
• Isla Marisol resort
HOPKINS
• Hamanasi Adventure & Dive
Resort
TURNEFFE ATOLL
• Blackbird Caye Resort
LIVE-ABOARDS
• Belize Aggressor III
There’s More...
• Great location for weddings and honeymoons
• Aromatherapy, reiki and massage studio
• World-class diving and snorkeling
• Windsurfing and variety of fishing options
• Free snorkel stop with seven-night packages
SunBreeze Suites with diving by Aqua Dives Belize
The barrier reef that runs along the Caribbean coast of Belize is second only to the Great
Barrier Reef in Australia. Jacques Cousteau first brought Belize into the limelight when he
documented his dive on Belize’s famous Blue Hole. The offshore islands of Ambergris
Caye, Turneffe, Lighthouse Reef Atoll, Half Moon Caye, and Glover’s Reef have been
attracting avid divers ever since. Eco-tours abound throughout the region from jungle tours
to the exploration of Mayan archeological sites, making Belize an adventurer’s paradise.
38
• Located downtown on the beach
• Oceanfront rooms with private balcony
• Swimming pool, equipment storage room
• Patio bar
• Private pier and tour desk offering sea and land tours
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
Ambergris Caye
One of San Pedro’s newest oceanfront resorts on the
beach, SunBreeze Suites is located in downtown San
Pedro with easy access to all the restaurants, bars
and island activities. All suites feature private
oceanfront balcony, fully-equipped kitchen, living
room and dining area. Amenities include freshwater
pool and patio bar, with sun loungers on the deck,
beach and pier. Aqua Dives Belize can take care of all
your scuba and aquatic needs. Day trips to the Mayan
cities, cave tubing or golf cart rentals to explore the
island for a day are available.
39
belize
Exotic Caye Beach Resort
Ambergris Caye
Exotic Caye is an intimate dive resort consisting of 23
one- and two-bedroom, air-conditioned, oceanfront
condominiums overlooking the sea just south of San
Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize. Crazy Canucks Beach
Bar, Monkey Bites Cafe, freshwater pool, beach
volleyball and full-time concierge services are located
on the property. Tropical plants and majestic palms
create an atmosphere of relaxation and leisure with
uninterrupted vistas of the crystal waters of the
Caribbean and the Belize Barrier Reef.
© CARLOS VILLOCH
• All units are directly oceanfront, air-conditioned condos with kitchen
• Beach Bar, on-site café, pool
• Hotel transfer and welcome drink
• Eight-minute walk to San Pedro
Ambergris Divers
Ambergris Caye
Locally owned by a family of divers
keen to maintain the best safety
record in the island. Ambergris
Divers love what they do and enjoy
developing novice divers’ skills as
well as the company of experienced
divers and friends travelling together
as dive groups.
BONUS
Book 6
nights, get
one night
free Jan 6 to
Feb 28
The Villas at Banyan Bay with diving by Ambergris Divers
Ambergris Caye
Experience the luxury of a full service resort. When
entering the marble appointed lobby, you will know that
you made the right choice. The professional staff will
check you in, orient you to your surroundings and will have
you in your swim suit enjoying the beach in no time.
Banyan Bay is family-oriented and the ultimate in luxury,
privacy and oceanfront living. It features two- and threebedroom villas with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea
and the Great Belize Barrier Reef. Each spectacular suite
has a contemporary Caribbean style with a fully-equipped
kitchen, spacious living areas, comfortable bedrooms,
private bathrooms and hot tub in the master bath.
• Snorkeling, diving, fishing, cave tubing, resort style pool, sailing
• Jungle adventures, bird watching, mayan archeological sites, volleyball
• Golf cart, bicycles and free service to/from San Pedro airstrip
• Baby sitting, massage therapists, daily maid service, and internet access
• Catering weddings and special events (from intimate to large groups)
BONUS
Book 6
nights, get
one night
free in Sept
and Oct
Turneffe Island Lodge
Turneffe Atoll
The original diving and fishing lodge on the Turneffe Atoll—
one of the world’s great ocean and reef ecosystems. This
private access island experience is unique due to the 40
year history and ideal location. Serene, peaceful and
beautiful, the entire lodge and all buildings and services
have been renovated and upgraded in the past two years.
PADI dive shop and over 70 dive sites within a 10 minute
boat ride. Salt water flats fishing is world class due to the
shallows of the atoll and hundreds of mangrove islands.
Fresh water pool, air-conditioning, family-style meals and
full-time staff. All accommodations are ocean front, with a
maximum of 40 guests.
© CARLOS VILLOCH
• Stunning ocean views, fresh Belizean cuisine, private access island, peaceful and serene
• Oceanfront accommodations with mahogany and teak, air-conditioning and outdoor showers
• World-class valet service for diving and fishing, you just relax and enjoy
• Full bar and restaurant, three fresh Belizean / American meals served family-style daily
• Free use of kayaks and Hobie Cat, unobstructed sunsets and sunrises, nightly appetizers
40
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
belize
Turneffe Flats
Inn at Robert’s Grove
Radisson Fort George Hotel
Peter Hughes Sun Dancer II
Turneffe Atoll
Long recognized as a premier
diving, ecotourism and fly fishing
destination, Belize’s Turneffe Atoll is
the largest and most biologically
diverse atoll in the Caribbean.
Specializing in superior service for a
limited number of guests—12 divers
max on a Pro 48!
Placencia
This beautifully appointed outpost
features 52 oceanfront airconditioned guest rooms and
suites, full-service PADI dive and
snorkel center, sport fishing, and
adventure tour center, sea spa,
two restaurants, bars, and
conference facility.
Belize City
The Radisson Fort George Hotel
is equipped with a dive shop,
marina, 102 rooms, tour desk,
two pools, hot tub, two
restaurants, coffee shop and two
bars. Experience the genuine
hospitality of Belize in this premier
full-service hotel.
Live-Aboard
The flagship of the renowned
Peter Hughes Dancer Fleet, M/V
Sun Dancer II cruises the atolls of
Belize, offering 20 divers all of the
luxury amenities that have
become the hallmark of the
Dancer Fleet.
42
costa rica
costa rica
GUANACASTE
Diving Safaris
Premier Fiesta Resort & Spa
Resort Divers de Costa Rica
Villa Sol Hotel & Beach Resort
OSA PENINSULA
• Agila de Osa
LIVE-ABOARDS TO COCOS ISLAND
There’s More...
Playa Ocotal
Located on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this
boutique four-star property was the first PADI resort in
Costa Rica, featuring 59 rooms and suites, all with a great
ocean view. Two restaurants, beach snack bar, three
pools, and a swim-up bar are just a few of the amenities.
Enjoy tennis, fishing, surfing, and available adventure
tours. On-site PADI 5 Star Gold Palm dive operation is
just steps from the beach, featuring two custom dive
boats and a team of divemasters to set up and break
down gear for you. Daily trips to Cat and Bat Islands.
Experience the rush of swimming next to a giant whale
shark or immerse yourself in a school of manta rays.
Topside Attractions
• Canopy jumping tours
• Arenal Volcano & Hot
Springs tour
• River rafting
• Surfing
• All rooms feature panoramic ocean views and private terrace or balcony; breakfast included
• Full in-house dive operation and a variety of adventure tours
• PADI 5 Star Gold Palm IDC Resort
• Daily dive trips to Catalinas, Bat Islands
• Certified PADI and TDI Nitrox Instructor
Aqua Center Diving
Papagayo Gulf
Be transported to a place of exotic trappings on the
untamed beauty of Costa Rica’s Northern Pacific
coastline. From spectacular bluffs to unspoiled diversity,
this rich land seems to have carved out the perfect spot for
the Occidental Grand Papagayo. This all-inclusive resort
where premium service meets a breathtaking location is
just 35 minutes from Liberia International Airport. With over
160 rooms, this resort blends along the bluff showcasing
stunning bay views and sunsets. The all-inclusive plan lets
guests enjoy dining in three restaurants, four bars,
activities and Fun Club. Exceptional diving services with
nearby PADI 5 Star Gold Palm Dive Center.
• Arenal Lodge
• Okeanos Aggressor
• Sea Hunter
• Undersea Hunter
Ocotal Beach Resort
Favorite Dive Sites
• Bat Island
• Monkey Head
• The Point, Catalina Islands
• The Wall, Catalina Islands
Occidental Grand Papagayo
ARENAL
•
•
•
•
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .75-80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .50-80’
Wetsuit . . . . . .3mm to 5mm
Best Time . . . .May to March
Playa Flamingo
Perfectly positioned to offer divers and snorkelers some
of the best underwater experiences to be found in Costa
Rica, Aqua Center Diving provides easy access to
exceptional dive sites for all levels of experience. Just
offshore from Flamingo, enjoy the Catalina Islands
swimming with abundance of manta rays and stingrays.
Dive around pinnacles with spectacular variety of marine
life from nudibranchs to sharks, with angel fish, jacks,
grunts, octopus, eels and turtles in between. You will dive
aboard any of their three custom boats where you are
provided with tanks, weights, belts, refreshments and
professional guides.
• Upgrade to The Royal Club for concierge services and amenities
• Plan a day-trip to Arenal Volcano, Buena Vista Hot Springs and more
• Three restaurants, four bars and a disco
• Fitness center, tennis and water sports included
• Take advantage of deep sea fishing and scuba diving
• PADI Dive Center
• Closest dive shop to Catalina Islands
• Three custom dive boats, complete care of you and your gear
• Rinsing area and free gear lockers with lock
• Sunset trips, kayaks, mountain bikes and boogie boards rental
Allegro Papagayo
Flamingo Marina Resort with diving by Aqua Center Diving
Papagayo Gulf
Active volcanoes, unspoiled rainforests and beaches
gleaming with volcanic sand make Costa Rica’s Northern
Pacific coast an explorer’s paradise. The Allegro
Papagayo—located just 30 minutes from Liberia
International Airport—features a terraced layout where
buildings form a chain down the bluff to the beach below.
Guests eager to explore Papagayo Bay’s water sports
hop a shuttle boat to the private beach club. Guests
enjoy all meals, snacks—including an open bar—
activities and sports, Beach Club, Fun Club, supervised
activities and evening entertainment. Exceptional diving
services with nearby PADI 5 Star Gold Palm Dive Center.
• Eco-adventure excursions may be scheduled on property
• Three international menu and buffet-style dining restaurants
• Kids Stay, Play and Eat FREE May 1 to December 22
• All-inclusive entertainment for families, couples, and adventurers
44
BONUS
Pay for 3
days of
diving, get
one free in
Sep and Oct
Playa Flamingo
Flamingo Marina Resort offers four stars with five-star
service. Located on the North Pacific Coast of Costa
Rica, Flamingo Marina Resort offers 19 deluxe
standard rooms, three captain standard rooms, four
sportsman suites and 60 condominiums. Scenic views
abound and guests are just steps away from the most
expansive white sand beaches in the country.
Amenities include pool bar and restaurant with indoor
and outdoor dining area, four swimming pools and
large outdoor hot tub. Enjoy sport fishing, scuba diving,
tennis and adventure tours. Diving with on-site Aqua
Center Diving.
• All rooms with oceanview balcony
• Condominiums with kitchen
• Wireless internet access
• Aqua Center Diving, on-site dive operator
• Tour operator
BONUS
Welcome
cocktail
upon arrival
© ETHAN GORDON
© CARLOS VILLOCH
The Guanacaste region of Costa
Rica serves up an amazing array
of adventurous activities to round
out any dive vacation. Diving at the
Catalina and Bat Islands is
renowned for its encounters with
large schools of mobula and cownosed rays as well as occasional
sightings of white tip, bull, and
tiger sharks—not to mention the
schooling hammerheads of Cocos
Island. Explore Costa Rica’s
rainforests on a canopy tour or
bathe in hot springs at the foot of
the Arenal Volcano. And if that’s
not enough, add to the mix jungle
treks, river rafting and surfing.
45
honduras
honduras
Mayan Princess Beach Resort
Favorite Dive Sites
• Coco View wall, Roatan
• Mary’s Place, Roatan
• Wreck of The Odyssey,
Roatan
• CJ’s Dropoff, Utila
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
Topside Attractions
• Dolphin Encounter at the
Institute for Marine Sciences
• Sante Wellness Center
• Cable Slide at Gumbalima
Park
ROATAN
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Bay Islands Beach Resort
Cocoview Resort
Inn of Last Resort
Laguna Beach Resort
Luna Beach Resort
Paradise Beach Club
Pura Vida Resort Hotel
The Seabreeze Inn
UTILA
• The Mango Inn
• Utila Lodge
LIVE-ABOARDS
• Utila Aggressor
There’s More...
The Bay Islands of Roatan,
Utila, Guanaja, and Cayos
Cochinos lie off the
Honduras mainland and
along the world’s second
largest barrier reef. Roatan
is home to one of the
Caribbean’s largest wrecks,
the 300’ freighter, the
Odyssey.
Whalesharks,
manta rays and dolphins are
commonly encountered in
Utila’s waters where the
continental shelf drops
vertically to over 3,300 feet.
Anthony’s Key Resort
Roatan
Anthony’s Key Resort offers allinclusive dive vacations on the
world’s second largest barrier
reef. Three meals a day, three
daily dives, night dives, dolphin
encounters, kayaking, canoeing,
horseback riding, new pool on
the key and much more!
Paya Bay Beach & Dive Resort
Roatan
This beautiful resort was built for
your enjoyment, with over 30 dive
sites to explore, you’ll need a week
to experience some of the best
diving in this hemisphere. Enjoy
outstanding canyons, pinnacles,
swim-throughs and beautiful walls
with on-site Dive Roatan.
Utopia Village
Roatan
This 21-acre private island features air-conditioned
beachfront rooms, brilliant white sand beach, satellite
TV, two restaurants, two bars, tennis and basketball
courts, water sports and boutique. The dive center
features a fleet of custom 42-foot dive boats, spacious
dive storage, an underwater photo center, hyperbaric
chamber, beginning and advanced dive courses and the
friendliest professional dive staff in the Caribbean. Daily
boat diving, incredible shore diving, beautiful
accommodations and superb food make Fantasy Island
Beach Resort Roatan’s luxury live-aboard on land.
• Fleet of four custom Pro 42 dive boats and one custom Pro 51 dive boat
• PADI continuing educational programs, dolphin dives and snorkeling
• 50 dive sites within 25 minutes of the resort
• Photo shop and on-site recompression chamber, pharmacy and physicians
• Dive shop, equipment rental, dockside storage, showers and rinse tanks
Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort
Utila
Utopia Village is a casually elegant hotel complex nestled
in the jungle at the edge of a beautiful beach with
abundant coral reefs. Amenities include 16 upscale rooms
with private bathrooms, views of the ocean and mountains
from every room’s balcony, oceanfront bar, lounge, BBQ
patio and sunset roof terrace. On-site Dulce Vida has fresh
cuisine in exquisite natural surroundings. U Dive is a fullservice on-site dive shop featuring boat diving, unlimited
shore diving and training courses. U Spa offers a full menu
of treatments set in the lush tranquility of the jungle.
Immerse yourself in luxury with a variety of natural
botanical therapies or full body massage.
• 450 feet of beach front
• 16 upscale, ocean view rooms with balconies
• Access to over 100 charted dive sites
• Five two-tank dives, one night dive, unlimited shore diving
• Indoor, air-conditioned library lounge
46
Fantasy Island Beach Resort
BONUS
Free
night
dive
Roatan
Located on Roatan’s North Shore, this resort boasts one
of the island’s only completely private beaches—500 feet
of pristine white sand shores. The staff is committed to
making each guest’s visit special, offering oceanview
rooms with private balconies, in-room coffee makers, all
amenities, cable TV and much more. The dive shop is
operated by Subway Water Sports, an elite PADI Gold
Palm Resort and National Geographic Award-winning dive
center. Due to the location, dive sites are pristine thanks to
minimal diving activity in the past. The dive shop offers
PADI certification courses, snorkeling, shark dives, night
dives, wreck dives, excursion dives and more.
• National Geographic Award Winning and PADI Gold Palm Resort Dive Center
• 10 to 12 divers per guide, on our pristine dive sites, dived only by our guests
• Dive shop, dive equipment rental, dockside storage, freshwater showers and rinse tanks
• All PADI courses up to assistant instructor
• Fully air-conditioned oceanview rooms, each with private balcony
© ETHAN GORDON
• Enjoy a variety of tours and activities during your stay
• Personalized service and top quality diving
• Upscale dive operation, all with brand new equipment
• One of the best beaches in the Caribbean
• Enjoy the grand variety of tours and activities during your stay
© ETHAN GORDON
Roatan
This paradise for divers, snorkelers and beach lovers is set
on West Bay Beach, one of the prettiest beaches in the
Caribbean—a spectacular setting for your vacation
getaway with first-class accommodations and service.
One of the last great Caribbean destinations, Roatan offers
the ultimate access to the world’s second largest barrier
reef system. Just steps from your door, a powdery white,
sandy beach leads to sparkling, turquoise water and
spectacular underwater gardens. Watch the sun slip into
the sea from the veranda of your own luxurious villa, or
stop by the Beach Bar & Restaurant for sunset cocktails
and island-style appetizers.
© ETHAN GORDON
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . .70-100’
47
baja
baja
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . . . . .78°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . .100’
Wetsuit . . . . . . . . . . . . .3mm
Club Cantamar Resort and Sports Centre
La Paz
Club Cantamar, in the Sea of Cortéz, is the result of 23
years of continued operation and management by the
Aguilar family. Today, Club Cantamar features an ideal
marina environment and the best fleet of dive boats on
the west coast of Mexico. This is a 50-room beach
resort built by divers, for divers—including a
recompression chamber on-site, gear lockers, swim-up
bar and great food served in a superbly located
restaurant. Diving at Club Cantamar is almost a
guarantee that the big pelagic animals that make this
region famous will be within your reach. The friendly
service ensures a fun and memorable dive vacation.
Favorite Dive Sites
• The Pinnacle Sea Lion
Rookery
• The Blowhole
• Socorro Islands
• Cabo Pulmo
CABO
• Amigos del Mar
• Presidente InterContinental
Resort Los Cabos
LIVE-ABOARDS
Inn at Loreto Bay
BONUS
• Beachfront resort
• Fast dive boats
• Recompression chamber on-site
• Spotter planes
• Gear lockers
10% discount on all
hotel packages from
Dec to May
Loreto
Featuring 155 rooms on a secluded
beach, this resort is tucked in the
shadow of a mountain and offers
accommodations to meet your
every need. Relax beachside under
a palapa while the perfect dive
outing is arranged for you by
Dolphin Dive Center.
• Nautilus Explorer
© DAVID FLEETHAM
There’s More...
Sandwiched between the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific, Baja is famous for big animal
encounters, including mantas, hammerheads, and whale sharks. More than 20 species of
whales are encountered in this region throughout the year as they migrate, breed, and calve—
whale watching is practically a year-round activity. Lively Cabo San Lucas is a hot bed of
activity from water sports and world-class golf to numerous clubs, restaurants.
48
DreamsLosCabosSuitesGolfResort&Spa
Fiesta Inn La Paz with diving by Fun Baja
La Paz
Located inside the newest and most exclusive tourist
development—Marina Costa Baja in La Paz—this new
hotel offers 120 fully-equipped rooms, one restaurant,
pool bar, gym, meeting rooms and private dock. This
is a truly amazing place where you can get awesome
views on how the desert mixes with the Mar de
Cortez. Fun Baja offers dive services as well as
transportation from and to the airport, tours to Espiritu
Santo Island and more.
• Lunch served at the beach during dive days
• Daily gear care and storage free
• Pick-up and drop-off at hotel dock
• Padi 5-star certifications and Nitrox
• Seven brand new fast dive boats
Cabo San Lucas
This Unlimited-Luxury® oasis
boasts three swimming pools, two
with swim-up bars, championship
golf courses, a full-service spa,
fitness center, Explorer’s Club for
kids and gourmet á la carte
restaurants. Diving provided by
Baja Diving & Service.
Solmar V
Dreams Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
Baja Live-Aboard
The luxury yacht Solmar V is a true four-season liveaboard that takes advantage of weather patterns to
provide optimal diving year-round. Visiting the fabled
Socorro Islands, Sea of Cortez and Guadalupe Island, you
will discover some of the best big animal diving on earth
while being pampered by an English-speaking staff known
for their friendly and professional manner. Dive with
mantas, sharks, dolphins, whalesharks and humpback
whales at Socorro or witness great white sharks at
Guadalupe Island. The crew, with over 15 years
experience, has an impeccable reputation for service and
safety while providing high octane diving at its best.
• Air-conditioned staterooms with private bathroom, TV/DVD player and pillowtop mattresses
• Price includes three delicious meals per day, all snacks, beer, wine, port, park and fuel fees
• Seawave satellite phone and computer station for email, editing and downloading photos
• Double tier camera table with charging stations and warm water outdoor showers
• New Nitrox membrane system for 32-34% fills
Puerto Vallarta
Secluded in a tropical paradise, this
stunning resort provides UnlimitedLuxury® with spacious oceanview
rooms and suites, a private whitesand beach, three shimmering
pools, gourmet restaurants and
friendly bars, plus comfortable
lounges. Diving with Scuba Caribe.
49
cozumel
cozumel
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-81°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
Fiesta Americana Cozumel Dive Resort with diving by Dive House
Divers and sun-worshipping families find casual comfort
at this resort, located across the street from the beach,
just 10 minutes south of downtown San Miguel and a
short boat ride from the main scuba diving reefs. This allinclusive hotel has 224 casual and comfortable rooms
featuring TVs, air-conditioning, balcony and coffee
makers. Guests can enjoy two oceanview pools,
restaurants, bars, tennis, activity center and kid’s club.
On-site Dive House, a PADI Gold Palm Resort, NAUI
Dream Resort, Universal Referral Center, and TDI Training
Facility, offers daily dive excursions to Cozumel’s famous
reefs as well as a full selection of dive courses, snorkel
tours and equipment rental.
Favorite Dive Sites
• Palancar Reef
• Santa Rosa Wall
• Columbia Reef
• Punta Sur Reef
Topside Attractions
• Chankanaab and Punta Sur
Ecological Parks
• Playa Bonita Beach
• Hotel Barracuda
There’s More...
BONUS
• PADI Gold Palm Resort
• Private beach
• On-site dive operator Dive House
• Private pier
• Kid’s Club
One free
night for
PADI Diving
Society
members
Dive House
In operation since 1994, this spacious and modern
facility is a full-service dive center offering a complete
selection of dive tours and instruction, scuba and
snorkel rentals, equipment repairs, gear washing and
storage facilities and a scuba boutique. Excellent
beach diving and snorkeling is available right in front of
the store. Located on-site at Fiesta Americana and
operating five boats—all fully-equipped with VHF
radios, depth sounders, DAI oxygen units, first aid kits
and life vests—Dive House offers diving and snorkeling
trips. Dive House is affiliated with PADI, NAUI and TDI
certification agencies and also with the local
hyperbaric chamber.
• PADI Gold Palm Resort, NAUI Dream Resort
• TDI Training Facility, Universal Referral Center
• Rental gear, gear storage lockers and freshwater showers
• Fleet of five dive boats, divers on the boat choose the site
• Night dives and snorkel trips available
Scuba Club Cozumel
The names of some of Cozumel’s dive sites are hallowed in divers’ log books—Palancar Reef,
Colombia Reef, and Santa Rosa Wall to mention a few. The currents that carry divers along
Cozumel’s dramatic drop-offs have made this one of the world’s top dive destinations. There
is a wide variety of shopping, dining, and accommodation options—even all-inclusives—
which make Cozumel a popular choice for divers and non-divers alike. In addition to top-notch
diving, there are plenty of topside activities to fill the non-diving hours: beautiful beaches,
dolphin encounters, and nature parks, not to mention day trips to the mainland for Maya ruin
tours or cenote diving. The laid-back atmosphere of the dive town of San Miguel and its
friendly people brings divers back again and again.
50
• Dedicated dive resort with a 5-star dive facility on-site
• Clean, well-run operation for divers
• Oceanfront and close to town
• Private piers and easy beach diving
• Seven custom dive boats
© LILY MAK
© ETHAN GORDON
Walking distance from downtown, this oceanfront dive
resort features 60 air-conditioned rooms, each with ceiling
fan, hair dryer, mini fridge and a private porch or balcony,
just steps away from great shore diving. Finished in tile
and stucco, the rooms are ready for wet divers and have
drying racks for dive suits on each terrace. Rooms are
spacious, comfortable and have individual character. Onsite PADI 5-Star Dive Center—with a fleet of seven
custom boats—includes air filling station with four
compressors and a four-stage filtering system, a full line
of rental gear and basic repairs shop, as well as an
International Training Center offering specialty courses
and all levels of certification.
51
cozumel
Hotel Cozumel & Resort with diving by Dive Paradise
Hotel Cozumel & Resort has a great location, walking
distance from downtown and only a few minutes by
boat to the main reefs of the island. It offers 181 deluxe,
fully-equipped rooms, a beach club, the largest
swimming pool on the island, oceanfront hot tub, three
restaurants, three bars, and free wireless internet
access. Also, you can find a Kid’s Club, gym, daily
entertainment, nightly shows, non-motorized water
sports, PADI full-service center, private pier and lockers
for diving equipment. Most importantly, all of your needs
are met—whether you are planning a family trip or a
honeymoon—in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with
a wide variety of activities.
• Walking distance from downtown and only minutes by boat to main reefs
• Largest swimming pool on the Island
• Private pier and lockers for diving equipment
• Renovated deluxe, fully-equipped rooms
• Non-motorized water sports, daily entertainment and nightly shows
BONUS
Kids stay
and eat
free on
all-inclusive
packages
Dive Paradise
Dive Paradise has been providing safe, reliable, and
fun-filled scuba diving in Cozumel for over 23 years
and is proud to have earned the reputation as “the
name you know and trust.” With a large fleet of boats,
a wide variety of dive trips, and a staff of over 80
instructors, divemasters, captains, sailors, management
and office staff, Dive Paradise is undoubtedly
Cozumel’s largest independent dive operator. You are
on vacation when you visit them, and they want you to
have the best time possible, returning again with your
friends—so Dive Paradise will not let a reasonable
client go away angry. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
• Over 15 specialty courses, including better buoyancy dive course
• A fleet of 13 boats
• Wide variety of dive trips
• DAN oxygen on board all vessels
• Wide spacious dive platforms
BONUS
1/2 price
buddy
specials on
instruction
Wyndham Cozumel Resort & Spa with diving by Sand Dollar Sports
One of the most fun all-inclusives in Cozumel! Situated
on 2,000 feet of beach on the southwest side of
Cozumel, just five minutes from Chankanaab Ecopark
and 15 minutes from downtown San Miguel. Recently
redecorated in Mexican Caribbean style with fullyequipped standard rooms with ocean or garden views.
With a private pier and only minutes by boat to several
world-class reefs, this resort is an ideal location for divers.
On-site Sand Dollar Sports started in 1984 offering
snorkel trips, and today they boast one of the largest fullservice dive centers in Cozumel. Their dedicated staff and
unwavering commitment to customer service is the
foundation of their company and success.
© LILY MAK
• 2,000 feet of beach front, dive shop on-site with private pier
• Standard and oceanview rooms available
• Five minutes away from the main reefs
• Specialty dive courses on-site
• Water sports including snorkel, kayak, Hobie Cats, windsurfing and more
52
BONUS
Kids under
12 stay
free from
Apr 14 to
Aug 15
cozumel
Casa del Mar Cozumel with diving by Del Mar Aquatics
This charming Mexican hideaway faces the magnificent
Caribbean Sea, situated just across the main boulevard
with 98 comfortable rooms and eight recently restored
deluxe cabanas. The property is surrounded by beauty
and exotic gardens with a Mexican town feeling. The
restaurant, bar and pool area invite you to relax and be
enchanted by the unique Cozumel sunset. On-site Del
Mar Aquatics, a fully-equipped dive facility, always
understands the special needs of the diver. The large
fleet of custom dive boats gets you to the reefs in less
than half the time others require. Hotel Casa del Mar and
Del Mar Aquatics—the perfect match for an
unforgettable vacation.
BONUS
• Unlimited shore diving
• Shallow reef in front of hotel
• 25% discount on equipment rental
• Kids stay free when rooming with parents
• Optional meal plan available
25% off
specialty
courses
El Cid La Ceiba with diving by Babieca Dive Center
Completely renovated, this resort features totally
rebuilt suites in a minimalist world-class style.
Upgrades include all new appliances and elevators,
new pools and landscaping, new oceanfront
restaurant and bar, and new Temascal prehispanic
sauna, massage cabins and tent area. Additionally, the
resort now sports a state-of-the-art fitness center,
beautiful tide pool with cascading waterfalls, fullystocked bar within reach of the hot tub, new on-site
dive operation and private dock, and a new
philosophy focused on personal service. Located on
the beach, just five minutes south of Cozumel’s
downtown area.
• Located on the beach, all rooms have an ocean view
• Great location for shore diving and snorkeling, dive shop on-site
• Temascal massage center, two swimming pools featuring a tide pool
• Oceanfront restaurant
• On-site photo shop offering a variety of underwater photo courses
Cozumel Palace with diving by Aqua Safari
In the heart of Cozumel Island, in the beautiful Caribbean
Sea and on the edge of the world-famous Palancar
Reef, this oceanfront resort lies within walking distance
to the main town of San Miguel. All 175 junior suites
incorporate a soothing double hot tub, seating area,
private balcony (most with a hammock), 24-hour room
service and a fantastic ocean view. Pamper yourself with
soothing massages at one of the spa treatment rooms
or soak up the sun at two swimming pools with a swimup bar. Dining options include buffet and á la carte meals
at four restaurants. Cozumel Palace also features a Kid’s
Club, kiddie pool and playground. Enjoy excellent diving
and snorkeling with Aqua Safari.
© ETHAN GORDON
• 5-star all-inclusive luxury resort, fine dining, top-shelf drinks
• Balconies, hammocks, hot tubs, turndown service, infinity pools
• Full-service on-site dive shop
• Ten spa treatment rooms
• Water sports, sensational entertainment
54
cozumel
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
cozumel
Aqua Safari
Aqua Safari pioneered Cozumel
diving in 1966. Today, modern and
comfortable boats, a broad menu of
dive trips and services, experienced
divemasters and instructors make
this PADI 5-Star Cozumel tradition a
personable and fun choice. Owner
managed and readily available to
help make vacations the best.
Villablanca Garden Beach
Surrounded by lush tropical
gardens, this resort offers 50
rooms and suites, all featuring
sunken tubs, refrigerators, airconditioning, telephone and cable
TV. Amenities include poolside
snack bar, gourmet restaurant,
swimming pool, hot tub, tennis
courts, dive shop and private pier.
56
Casa Mexicana Cozumel with diving by Aqua Safari
Occidental Grand Cozumel with diving by Dive Palancar
Whether you’re diving, shopping, dining or sight-seeing,
Casa Mexicana Cozumel is right in the heart of the action
on the waterfront. Built in an award-winning open design,
Casa Mexicana welcomes you with a smiling staff, sun
deck and pool overlooking the ocean. The generously
sized rooms are outfitted with beautifully polished
hardwood Maya furniture. Your stay includes breakfast
buffet, free wireless internet, refrigerator and cable TV.
Aqua Safari—a diving tradition since 1966—with a shop
right outside the lobby and five dive boats at the pier in
front could hardly be more convenient. Well known for
their experience and safety, Aqua Safari is a PADI 5 Star
Facility and a REEF Field Station.
Presidente InterContinental Resort & Spa
At the Occidental Grand Cozumel, guests enjoy allinclusive luxury and diving at one of the world’s most
amazing reefs. Located on Cozumel’s Playa San
Francisco, the resort offers a range of room categories,
gourmet dining and activities in the hacienda-style resort.
Enjoy the colonial design and upgrade to The Royal Club,
with personal concierge service, hydro-massage bathtubs
and other exclusive amenities. Dive packages include daily
trips to the underwater caves of the world’s second largest
reef system. Every guest may enjoy the six on-site
specialty restaurants, plus activities including windsurfing,
kayaking and scuba clinics. When the sun goes down,
have cocktails in one of four bars or head for the disco.
• Rooms offer quiet elegance and ocean views
• Aqua Safari’s fast boats and great service
• Excellent crews, divemasters and instructors
• Upgrade to The Royal Club for concierge service and amenities
• Dive Palancar PADI SSI certification and scheduled daily excursions
• Enjoy all-inclusive luxury, six international restaurants and four bars
• Inquire about exclusive underwater wedding packages
• Enjoy fitness center, hot tub and tennis
A unique hideaway surrounded by
lush greenery and turquoise waters,
situated on a half-mile stretch of
private beach just minutes from the
abundant coral reefs. The 220
rooms and suites boast LCD-TV, WiFi, and MP3. Three restaurant
options for dining and an on-site
luxury day spa. Diving by Scuba Du.
Playa Azul Golf, Scuba, Spa Hotel with diving by Pro Dive Mexico
Allegro Cozumel with diving by Dive Palancar
Park Royal Cozumel
The intimate Playa Azul features on-site Pro Dive
Mexico, spa services and a Nicklaus-group designed
golf course nearby—unlimited greens fees extended
to all guests. Located on a protected white sandy
beach on the north side of Cozumel, and the heart of
San Miguel, this hotel has been entirely renovated and
refurbished. Beautifully decorated, air-conditioned
rooms have oceanview terraces with spectacular
sunsets. Daily full breakfasts and wireless internet are
also included in all rates. Surrounded by palm trees
and flowers, this cozy, small and intimate hotel is
managed by the owners. Playa Azul—the “homeaway-from-home” resort.
• Free unlimited golf
• Daily free use of snorkel equipment
• Daily free breakfast buffet
• Free wireless internet
• Beachfront hotel—great snorkeling and swimming
The Allegro Cozumel captures the natural splendor of
Mexico’s Caribbean coastline, and is located 20 minutes
from the Cozumel airport and a few minutes from the
world-famous Palancar Reef. This is the perfect escape
for dive enthusiasts, sport fishing fans and beach lovers
alike. Relax in newly renovated Polynesian-style
bungalows and enjoy a private beach resort with all the
amenities and activities expected at a world-class hotel.
All-inclusive rates mean that guests enjoy unlimited
meals, snacks and beverages including a full open bar,
supervised kids activities, sports, SCUBA classes,
kayaking, sailing, windsurfing and more—all included in
the price of your stay.
• On San Francisco Beach, minutes from Palanacar Reef
• All-inclusive entertainment for families, couples and dive fanatics
• Three restaurants, three bars and one sports night club
• On-site dive shop and instruction with Dive Palancar
• Take excursions to Tulum, Xel-Ha and Chichen Itza
Located in the southern hotel zone,
this elegant all-inclusive resort offers
beautifully appointed rooms. Dine at
one of four restaurants, relax at one
of five bars, enjoy the fitness
facilities, snorkeling, activities
program, or soak in one of our extra
large hot tubs overlooking the
ocean. Diving with Aquaworld.
57
riviera maya
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . . . . .80°
Visibility . . .120’+ in cenotes
Favorite Dive Sites
• Ponderosa and Dos Ojos
Cenotes
• Xaak, Akumal
Topside Attractions
• Tulum Maya Ruins
• Dolphin Discovery
• Xcaret Eco Park
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Sea Pro
Catalonia Royal Tulum
Omni Hotel & Beach Resort
Riu Hotels
Scuba Caribe/Renova Spa
Villas de Rosa
Aquatech Dive Center
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
There’s More...
The same reef system that lies off Cozumel runs parallel to the Riviera Maya shoreline of
endless white beaches, while the famous cenotes of this region are found in its jungle-thick
interior. This 120-mile stretch of coastline offers a multitude of unique activities—explore Maya
ruins, drift through underground rivers, bike or trek through the jungle, or swim with dolphins.
Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa
Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun
Sunscape Puerto Aventuras
Designed by renowned architect
Ricardo Legorreta, this UnlimitedLuxury™ resort is surrounded on
three sides by the Caribbean,
features Delphinus Dreams Cancun
dolphin experience, Spa Journeys
by Pevonia, and is just steps from
shops, free golf, and nightlife. Diving
with Pro Dive Mexico.
Just five minutes from Tulum, this
hacienda-style resort provides
Unlimited-Luxury® featuring two
swimming pools, one with a
children’s pool and swim-up bar, fullservice spa featuring Spa Journeys
by Pevonia, and six gourmet á la
carte restaurants plus lounges.
Diving with Pro Dive Mexico.
Situated on 71 acres of lush
foliage, Secrets Capri offers
adults Unlimited-Luxury® with an
extra measure of romance in an
exquisite
setting.
Premium
brands, complimentary golf, and
24-hour room service provide a
host of amenities. Diving with Pro
Dive Mexico.
Set amidst the beauty of the
Mayan coast, this fun-filled resort
is set on a private beach in a
marina community. Families can
escape to Unlimited-Fun® with
shimmering pools, water sports, á
la carte dining, fitness center and
Explorer’s Club. Diving with Pro
Dive Mexico.
58
riviera maya
Occidental Grand Xcaret
Playacar
Tucked amid an ecological and historical preserve, the allinclusive Occidental Grand Xcaret captivates guests with
spectacular grounds, a pristine coastline and unparalleled
service. Located less than an hour south of Cancun
International Airport and 10 minutes from Playa del
Carmen, this glorious resort boasts winding river channels,
freeform pools and a private beach with white sand on a
quiet cove. Featuring 11 international restaurants and 10
bars to fit every occasion, from a romantic dinner to a lively
family meal, and guest accommodations which range
from Deluxe, Grand Concierge to The Royal Club
categories for the more discerning visitors.
Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun (2008)
Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun (2008)
Coming soon:
Secrets La Romana Resort & Spa
Secrets Punta Cana Resort & Spa
Secrets Montego Bay Resort & Spa
• One-day Pass to Xcaret Park included for every guest
• Upgrade to The Royal Club for concierge services and amenities
• Enjoy fitness center, hot tub, spa and tennis
• Nine restaurants, seven bars, disco and folkloric shows
• Snorkeling, scuba diving, archery, rifle shooting on property
Allegro Playacar
Playacar
Nestled in a luxuriant natural environment of lush
vegetation, crystal clear water and pristine white sand, the
all-inclusive Allegro Playacar resort is located minutes
away from the picturesque town of Playa del Carmen.
Two-story Polynesian-style bungalows house newly
renovated guest rooms boasting sun-kissed yellow walls,
all new furniture, and modern amenities. Guests enjoy
unlimited meals, snacks and beverages including a full
open bar, supervised kids activities, scuba classes,
kayaking, sailing and windsurfing. The new Kid’s Club is an
activity/day care center for kids ages 2-12 showcasing a
new game room and a children’s pool.
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
• Walking distance to shopping and fun in Playa del Carmen
• Dive certification and dives with Scuba Mexico
• Kids stay, play and eat free from May 1 to December 22
• Enjoy nightly live entertainment
• All-inclusive entertainment for families, couples and reunions
Puerto Aventuras
Pro Dive Mexico is the premier scuba company in the
Riviera Maya. This PADI 5-Star National Geographic
International Dive Center provides top quality dive
excursions and training from beginner to instructor level.
Daily dive excursions take divers to the local reefs for
amazing turtle dives, to the nearby cenotes, and to the
famous reefs of Cozumel. The world-class Whale Shark
Snorkel Safari is offered from May until September along
with a guarantee to swim with these magnificent
animals—an unforgettable experience. All excursions are
lead by multilingual PADI instructors with personalized
service and attention to detail.
© CARLOS VILLOCH
60
Dreams Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
Dreams Cancun Resort & Spa
Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
Coming soon:
Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa
GREAT VACATIONS
are about getting together
That’s why we have created three unique unlimited vacation
experiences – unforgettable escapes where everything’s included.
Pro Dive Mexico
• PADI 5-Star National Geographic Dive Center
• Multilingual PADI instructors
• Free pick up from any hotel at the Riviera Maya
• Dive packages, equipment rental
• Whale Shark Snorkel Safari (May to September)
Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa
BONUS
One free
additional
afternoon
dive
Secrets, our adults-only resort locations, offers an extra measure of romance and
sensuality in exquisite luxury settings. Dreams provides the same high level of luxury and
ambience for couples, families and friends. Sunscape puts the accent on family fun with
first class accommodations and exciting activities in spectacular locations.
Sunscape The Beach Punta Cana
Sunscape Puerto Aventuras Riviera Maya
Unlimited-Luxury and Unlimited-Fun. A new and better way to have it all.
®
®
©2007 AMRESORTS.
riviera maya
Hotel Marina El Cid Riviera Maya
Puerto Morelos
Pamper yourself at Hotel Marina El Cid Riviera Maya, a
new hotel that combines colonial and modern architectural
styles. Find yourself surrounded by beautifully designed
rooms and suites located right on the ocean. Enjoy wide
expanses of silky white sand, clear waters and spectacular
underwater life ideal for snorkeling and diving at the Puerto
Morelos National Reef Park located in front of the hotel.
Challenge yourself with a fishing expedition with an
experienced crew, or tour the ancient Mayan sites and
pyramids nearby. Enjoy distinctive dining and a unique
culinary experience with all the amenities you can dream
of—something for everyone.
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
• On-site marina features a dive house and sport fishing fleet
• Wreck diving, reef diving, shore diving and cave diving available
• Snorkel trips to the reef available
• Sport fishing fleet available
• 50-foot catamaran for sunset cruises and daytime sailing
BONUS
Platinum
level
includes a
free snorkel
tour
Dive Aventuras
Puerto Aventuras
This PADI 5-Star Gold Palm IDC center provides
unparalleled dive training from the beginner to the
professional level. Dive Aventuras prides itself on
customer service with special attention to safety,
enjoyment and reef preservation. One-tank ocean dives
depart at 9:00 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm and 2:30 pm with
daily cenote dives also available. Located in the heart of
the Riviera Maya, the short boat rides and quick access
to the cenotes makes it easy to dive and still schedule
time for family and friends. Their staff of multilingual PADI
professionals are sure to enhance your diving experience
with personal attention and contagious enthusiasm.
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
• Gold Palm PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Center
• Small groups and personal attention
• Short boat rides
• Whale shark excursions (June to September)
• Pickup from hotels in the Riviera Maya
The Reef Playacar Resort & Spa with diving by Reef Marina Dive Shop and Watersports
Playacar
Nestled on the white sandy beach of Playa del Carmen,
this all-inclusive resort is a jewel in the Mayan Riviera.
Spend your holidays participating in the many exciting
activities available or sit back and soak in the beautiful
Caribbean atmosphere. Enjoy fantastic diving at the onsite dive shop, Reef Marina, offering a wide variety of
services to suit every diver’s taste. A variety of food and
beverage outlets including two a lá carte restaurants, one
buffet, a swim-up bar, lobby bar, beach bar, ice cream
parlor and snack bar surrounded by lush vegetation are
waiting for you. Discover the wonderful spa situated in the
beautiful gardens or just relax sipping a tropical drink.
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
• Multilingual PADI instructors
• Special dive packages and certifications available
• Motorized water sports, fishing, parasailing, catamaran tours and wave runners
• Special group discounts on diving, complimentary non-motorized water sports
• Intimate resort known for its personalized service and a fully-equipped new spa
62
BONUS
Early
booking
discount and
welcome
gift
bermuda
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . .70-100’
© CARLOS VILLOCH
Favorite Dive Sites
• Wreck of the Constellation
Montana
• Wreck of the North Carolina
• Wreck of the Marie Celestia
Bathed by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream but well outside the confines of the Caribbean,
this coral reef-fringed island is located 650 miles west of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina.
Drenched in history as well as stunning beaches and resorts, the surrounding waters are
home to over 400 shipwrecks—some centuries old. The island’s strategic position in the midAtlantic has long made it a seafarer’s haven—Bermuda has played a major role in wars dating
back to the Civil War up through World War II. Many museums and historical sites where
evidence of its tragedies and bounty can be seen.
Elbow Beach
Fairmont Southampton
Grotto Bay Beach Resort
This tropical hideaway is a favorite
with those who appreciate extra
privacy. Residing on a pristine pink
beach, this resort sits amid 50
acres of landscaped gardens, just
five minutes from the charming
downtown of Hamilton, the island’s
capital. Diving with Blue Water
Divers.
Perched on the island’s highest
point, this resort overlooks lush
acres of pink sand beaches and
bountiful gardens. Relax beneath a
rainbow of umbrellas at the Beach
Club, hit the links for a round of golf,
grab your racket for a tennis match,
and dive the famous reefs and
wrecks with on-site Dive Bermuda.
This full-service resort offers comfortable and well-appointed oceanview rooms on a hillside. There are
three private beaches, tennis, water
sports, a pool, restaurants, and
even caverns to explore. On-site Triangle Diving offers daily trips to
some of the world’s most historic
wreck dive sites.
Blue Water Divers
9 Beaches
Bermuda arguably has the best
shallow water wreck diving in the
western hemisphere—not to mention the 280 square miles of reef
area. This full-service dive shop
was established over 25 years go,
and offers diving from two 36-foot
Newton dive boats on a yearround basis.
64
Topside Attractions
• Royal Navy Dockyard
• Pink Beaches
• Bermuda Underwater
Exploration Institute
• Dive Bermuda
• Triangle Diving
There’s More...
Visit 9 Beaches—Bermuda’s only ultra-casual
resort—for a truly unique vacation above, below, and
even over the water. Located on 18 waterfront acres
on the western end of the island, you'll enjoy a
comfortable soft-sided cabana and complimentary
hot buffet breakfast. Snuba (a hybrid of snorkeling
and scuba) is available onsite—this is great activity
suitable for anyone five years or older. The premiere
Blue Water Divers is only five minutes away, offering
full-service diving to Bermuda’s pristine reefs and
varied wreck dives.
• Comfortable soft-sided cabanas
• Water sports galore
• Take your pick of beaches—there are nine to choose from
• Wi-Fi hotspots at the resort
• Sail boat and glass bottom boat trips
australia
australia
Mike Ball Spoilsport
Great Barrier Reef Live-Aboard
Join Mike Ball Dive Expeditions award-winning live-aboard
for three, four or seven nights. The spaciousness of this
vessel, along with its stability and diver conveniences,
ensure that access to the best sites in this worldrenowned dive area is both comfortable and rewarding.
Dives are exclusively at sites offering the best biodiversity
north of Cooktown, including Cod Hole and the Coral Sea.
Swim with some of the area’s largest species including
diver-size cod, have a close encounter with a shark and
dive plummeting walls in gin clear water. Fly/Dive itineraries
include a 150-mile scenic reef flight that provides stunning
views of the Great Barrier Reef.
Topside Attractions
• Daintree National Park
• Kuranda Scenic Railway,
Cairns
• Tjapukai Aboriginal Park
• Undara Lava Lodge,
Queensland
Insider Tip
• Bring a 220v Australian
adapter
CAIRNS
•
•
•
•
•
Coral Tree Inn
Holiday Inn Cairns
Pacific International Resort
Pro Dive Cairns
Sofitel Reef Casino
• Complimentary Reef Ecology Program
• Soft drinks and wine included with dinner
• Underwater photography and video services, Nitrox and solo diving
• Hot dive deck showers and warm towels
• Huge dive deck with large camera table
Spirit of Freedom
Bedarra Island
Dunk Island
Hayman Island
Lizard Island
Heron Island
PORT DOUGLAS
• Club Tropical
• Palm Villas
• Poseidon Outer Reef Cruises
SYDNEY
• Intercontinental Sydney
UNDARA
• Undara Experience
There’s More...
Nimrod Explorer
Sleek, stylish and spacious, the Spirit of Freedom is one of
Australia’s largest live-aboard dive vessels, offering the best
in cruising comfort to the far northern Great Barrier Reef
and remote Coral Sea reefs. Spirit of Freedom’s three-day
Cod Hole and four-day Coral Sea tours include a one-way
low level flight over the reef between Cairns and Lizard
Island, while the seven-day tour includes the magical
Ribbon Reefs, the Cod Hole, time to explore Lizard Island,
an unforgettable shark dive at North Horn and the sheer
walls of Osprey Reef, Coral Sea. While the diving may be
out of this world, the facilities and service onboard will
complete your ultimate live-aboard experience.
GREAT BARRIER REEF
•
•
•
•
•
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-83°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .75-90’
The vessel is spacious and stable
and features large double and
quadruple cabins, each with
ensuite facilities. The main salon
and large shaded deck provide
ample seating for guests. The
expansive dive deck provides easy
water access.
• 120-foot electronically stabilized vessel for smooth cruising
• Spacious and comfortable cabins with private bathroom
• Large dive deck and water level platform, unlimited Nitrox on board
• Gourmet Australian-style meals, Australian wine complimentary
• Low level one-hour flights from Cairns to Lizard Island
The Great Barrier Reef has an almost magical place in the minds of divers. Its 1,200 miles of
coral atolls and islands are home to some of the world’s most renowned diving areas. The
more remote areas can only be reached by live-aboard but there are plenty of sites for landbased divers to explore. Experience the country’s unique nature and culture by visiting the
aboriginal parks, outback camps, and the spectacular coastal regions of Daintree National
Park and Cape Tribulation. One of the most impressive ways to see the Great Barrier Reef is
by helicopter or seaplane.
66
You’ve seen them on National Geographic, now join
their voyage of discovery! Undersea Explorer is one of
Australia’s most exciting live-aboard diving operations,
offering adventure diving expeditions with a marine
research focus. Their expeditions encompass an
incredible range of reef diving—combining adventure
diving with marine research—creating new dive
experiences. Their six day trips depart each Saturday
from Port Douglas for six days of diving—that’s 22 dives
in six days!—the vessel sails to the Great Barrier Ribbon
Reefs and magnificent Osprey Reef, an isolated atoll
with spectacular visibility.
• Combines research and marine interpretation with adventure diving
• Three, six, seven and nine day trips allow remote area access
• Extraordinary marine animal encounters with whales, sharks and deep sea nautilus
• 12 years of operation—one of the most experienced live-aboards in the region
• Featured in National Geographic and Discovery channel documentaries
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
© LILY MAK
Undersea Explorer
67
fiji
fiji
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . . . . .80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . .100’
Tui Tai Adventure Cruises
Savusavu
The Tui Tai Adventure Cruise is a unique dive vacation
designed for active travelers looking to get off the
beaten path and experience Fiji. The expedition
combines world-class diving, tropical adventure and a
chance to immerse you in the culture of Fiji. Taking
guests to places they never imagined, surrounded by
the natural beauty of Fiji and the kindness and warmth
of the Fijian people, Tui Tai Adventure Cruises is the
premier adventure experience in the South Pacific. Tui
Tai Adventure Cruises is operated with complete
commitment to ecotourism, fostering partnership and
development with indigenous groups.
Favorite Dive Sites
• Namotu Wall, Mamanucas
• Breathtaker, Nananu-I-Ra
Island
• Big Fish Encounter, Beqa
Island
• The Zoo, Yasawa Islands
• Astrolabe, Kadavu
Topside Attractions
• Partake in a traditional kava
kava ceremony
• Visit Bouma Waterfalls
• White water rafting
• Sea kayaking
• Island hopping by sea or air
• Five days aboard the Tui Tai, the premier expedition vessel in the South Pacific
• World-class diving, adventure and culture
• Kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, snorkeling, waterfalls, village tours and more
• PADI dive operation offering instruction and specialty dives
• Discover Fiji’s best dives and explore newly discovered reefs
MAMANUCAS
• Subsurface Fiji
• Treasure Island
PACIFIC HARBOR
• Beqa Adventure Divers
• Lagoon Resort
• Pearl South Pacific Resort
Taveuni
This truly unique resort is set on a
240-acre private island with
gorgeous beaches, rainforest, and
some of the world’s best dive sites.
It offers 11 individual bungalows, all
handcrafted from local materials,
plus three Tree House Bures
overlooking the beach and ocean.
Qamea Resort and Spa
• Oceanview rooms, open-air restaurant and bar, sumptuous meals
• Nightly entertainment and kava tasting
• Cultural village tours, waterfall treks, kayaking and fishing
• Open-air spa, boutique, internet cafe, tour desk and laundry service
• Nitrox and full range of PADI dive courses, shore diving and snorkeling
Taveuni
A boutique property set on 100
acres of gardens, jungle, and a milelong white sand beach, this resort
hosts no more than 32 adults in 16
air-conditioned bures, each with
outdoor showers, and several with
pools. The nearby reef was voted in
the top ten worldwide.
Koro Sun Resort & Rainforest Spa
Nai’a Cruises
SAVUSAVU
• Taveuni Island Resort
• Vunibokoi Divers
Free
Diver’s
Delight Spa
Treatment
Taveuni
Discover paradise on the lush tropical island of Taveuni
at award winning Garden Island Resort. This oceanfront
property provides a fun and relaxing haven on the
doorstep of exciting eco-adventures and amazing
world-class diving. Plunge into pristine waters to explore
the colorful and abundant Rainbow Reef with on-site
PADI 5-Star facility, Aqua-Trek Taveuni. Relax by the
oceanfront pool, indulge in a soothing massage, or enjoy
a traditional village visit, waterfall trek, kayaking, remote
island picnic or horseback riding. The island beckons
you to explore and discover its natural secrets and
embrace its warm and friendly culture.
• Dive Kadavu
• Matana Resort
• Matava Resort
TAVEUNI
BONUS
Garden Island Resort
KADAVU
• Jean Michel Cousteau Fiji
Islands Resort
Matangi Private Island Resort
VANUA LEVU
• Nukubati Island
VITI LEVU
© ETHAN GORDON
• Moody’s Namena
• Raffles Gateway Hotel
• Tokatoka Resort
LIVE-ABOARDS
Visions of vibrantly-colored soft corals covered by dense schools of fairy basslets are just one
of the mesmerizing effects that this dream destination has on divers. Prime diving areas
abound all through this country of over 300 islands from Kadavu in the south to Vanua Levu
and Taveuni in the north. The resorts are saturated in South Pacific ambience with strong
cultural undertones that make this destination as exotic as they come. Fed by the nutrient rich
waters of the Tonga Trench, the Fiji islands have an amazing bio-diversity of marine life from
macro creatures to large pelagics. Fiji’s cultural presence is also strong throughout the country
and exists in perfect harmony with its nature. Visit local villages, rainforests, and waterfalls. Go
white-water rafting, sea kayaking, or hop on a live-aboard or adventure cruise to explore
remote reefs and outlying islands.
68
• Blue Lagoon Cruises
• Fiji Aggressor II
• Fiji Aggressor III
There’s More...
Savusavu
This resort’s unspoiled northern location offers the
genuine warmth and friendliness of the Fijian people. Koro
Sun offers a truly native experience, dedicated to
adventure, rejuvenation and romance. The 24 enchanting
bures are private, exclusive and fully air-conditioned,
offering all-encompassing views of the ocean and reefs
beyond. Gourmet meals are included and prepared by a
meticulous staff. Snorkeling, kayaking, golf, tennis and
biking are also included. Dive with on-site operator Koro
Sun Dive and visit the famed sites of Namena Island
Marine Reserve and the Somosomo Straits as well as
local sites where big fish encounters are common.
• Koro Sun Dive, a full-service PADI Dive Center, is steps away
• Two restaurants offer a choice of fine dining or casual fare
• Rainforest Spa—one of Fiji’s top spa facilities
• Luxury villas with private pools for up to six guests also available
• Nitrox available on request as well as a full range of dive courses
BONUS
Stay for 7
nights, pay
for only 6,
plus free
fruit basket
Fijian Live-Aboard
Experience Fiji’s finest diving—from
manta rays to mantis shrimp,
dolphins to dartfish, voracious
sharks to vibrant soft corals—Nai’a
visits Fiji’s ultimate dive sites! Join
this luxury sailing vessel for worldclass live-aboard diving adventures
throughout the alluring Fiji Islands.
69
fiji
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
fiji
Castaway Island
Pacific Harbour
Aqua-Trek is famous for its Beqa dive operation located at
the Pearl South Pacific Resort in Pacific Harbour. AquaTrek’s award-winning Ultimate Shark Encounter in Beqa
Lagoon is called “The World’s #1 Shark Dive.” We provide
a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the
adrenaline rush of diving with eight species of sharks up
close and personal! See multiple bull sharks, majestic tiger
sharks, silvertips, lemon sharks and more. Divers also
enjoy amazing soft coral and wreck diving, not to mention
big game fishing, world-class surfing and adventurepacked white water river rafting. Aqua-Trek, Fiji’s premier
dive operator for 20-years, serves divers from all locations.
• Award winning Ultimate Shark Encounter, “The World’s #1 Shark Dive”
• Fiji’s most accessible soft coral and wreck diving
• Full range of PADI dive courses
• Serves divers from all Coral Coast locations
• Fiji’s premier dive operator, providing 20 years of excellence in safety, comfort and service
• Unlimited dive package—up to three dives daily for your entire stay
• Castaway “care ‘n carry” service for your equipment
• Air-conditioned bures with upgraded interiors featuring quality inclusions
• Experienced instructors and dive guides attentive to your needs
• Fully-equipped shop with Canon digital cameras to rent
Beqa Lagoon Resort
Wananavu Beach Resort with diving by Kai Viti Divers
Beqa Island
Discover the diversity of life on Beqa Island—dive into
the exciting depths of its lagoon with pristine reefs and
famous shark encounters. Other fun activities include
snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, hiking and surfing the
renowned Fijian Pipeline. Relax around the large and
luxurious infinity pool or unwind with a soothing
beachside massage. Evenings offer gourmet dining in
main open-air bure and popular cultural entertainment.
From the sacred ceremonies of the ancient firewalkers of
Beqa Island to the kava ceremonies at the resort, the
Fijian people will gently embrace you with their tradition
and culture, creating a most memorable vacation.
© ETHAN GORDON
• Firewalking, cultural activities, village tours and entertainment
• World-class diving, big fish and shark encounters
• Beachfront villas with private sundeck and plunge pool
• Kayaking, hiking, fishing and surfing
• Romantic options—weddings, private beach picnics and honeymoon bure
70
Mamanucas
This private island resort features 66 traditional thatched
Fijian-style spacious bures nestled in lush tropical gardens
and surrounded by white-sand beaches. Explore 37 dive
sites aboard Sokia, one of Fiji’s fastest and most stable
dive boats, all within 20 minutes of the resort. On-site
PADI 5-Star Gold Palm Dive Center, Castaway Diving,
offers a full range of courses from introductory through
divemaster. An unlimited dive package offers three dives
per day for a one time fee of USD $435 (with your own
gear). The longer the stay, the better the value. The warm
and welcoming family of staff provides a special brand of
Fiji island hospitality, Castaway-style.
BONUS
Free night
dive with
7-night
package
BONUS
Free meals
January
through
March
2008
Viti Levu
Located on the northern tip of Viti Levu, this resort
offers seclusion, peace and quiet, far away from the
mainstream Fijian resorts and in close proximity to
some of Fiji’s most exciting dive sites in the renowned
Bligh Waters. Wananavu is perfect for singles, couples
and families who wish to dive and relax in an off-thebeaten-track atmosphere. Kai Viti Divers is located
on-site. Dive trips are scheduled to correspond with
moon phases and tidal changes for optimal sightings
of pelagics, soft corals and small critters, providing a
quality dive experience that is ecologically
conscientious and service-oriented.
• 31 air-conditioned bures are situated on a palm-fringed coast or lush garden
• Restaurant and bar with fresh local food
• Pool, boutique and nightly entertainment
• Village tours, snorkeling, fishing and kayaking
• 43-foot and 33-foot state-of-the-art jet boats
© ETHAN GORDON
Aqua-Trek Beqa
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hawaii
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .70-80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
Best Time . . . . . .Dec to April
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .74-79°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
Best Time . . . . .Nov to April
Favorite Dive Sites
• Wolf Island
• Darwin’s Arch
• Cousin’s Rock
• Gardner’s Seamount
Topside Attractions
• Traditional luau
• World-class surfing
• Hawaii Volcanoes Nat’l Park
• Whale watching
• Road to Hana
• Horseback ride to Haleakala
• Na Pali Coast kayak tours
• Koke’s State Park hiking
• Helicopter tours
Topside Attractions
• Galapagos Interpretation
Center
• Charles Darwin Research
Station
• Snorkel with penguins
There’s More...
LIVE-ABOARDS
• Galapagos Aggressor I
• Galapagos Aggressor II
• Lammer Law
Hiking, helicopter tours, surfing, horseback
riding, cycling, volcano treks, and 4x4 drive
safaris are a few of the topside options
available between dives throughout the
Hawaiian islands. Head to the North Shore
of Oahu for a serious dose of the surfing
culture. The Big Island is dominated by
volcanoes and diving is along Hawaii’s
Kailua-Kona coast where sightings of
mantas, dolphins, and whale sharks occur.
In addition to the world-class whale
watching on Maui, the island of Lanai and
the Molokini Crater offer exciting diving within
easy reach. The most popular dives of
Kauai are located right offshore, but in the
summer months many divers venture to the
Forbidden Island of Ni’ihau for some of
Hawaii’s most pristine and dramatic diving.
© DAVID FLEETHAM
galapagos
Kona Village Resort
Resort Quest Kona by the Sea
Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort
Westin Moana Surfrider
Big Island
Unplugged vacations on 82
oceanfront acres at Kahuwai Bay.
Unpretentious individual thatchedroof bungalows nestled around
lush lagoons and pristine white
and black sand beaches. Diving
provided by Kona Village Resort
Ocean Adventures.
Big Island
Furnished island-style, this intimate
condo resort provides the ideal
home-away-from-home. Set on a
magnificent shoreline, guests
venture down the road to enjoy the
quiet charm of Kailua-Kona, with
one-of-a-kind shopping and dining.
Diving with Jack’s Diving Locker.
Big Island
From stargazing atop majestic
Mauna Kea to tours of nearby
Kona Coffee farms to abundant
ocean adventures launching from
Keauhou Bay and an active
volcano just a day’s drive away,
this island has it all. Diving with
Jack’s Diving Locker.
Oahu
Restored to its original turn-ofthe-century splendor, the “First
Lady of Waikiki” is the picture of
luxury and relaxation. Amenities
include fitness center, kid’s
program and a wide array of
activities to enjoy between dives.
Diving with Ocean Concepts.
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
There’s More...
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
The diversity of life on these remote islands over 500 miles off the Pacific coast of Ecuador
inspired naturalist Charles Darwin to develop his Theory of Evolution and has since inspired its
visitors with its stunning volcanic landscapes and unique terrestrial wildlife. Fortunately for
divers, the diversity of its marine life is just as exciting. Located at the crossroads of the
Equatorial Countercurrent and the colder Humbolt Current, the waters surrounding the island
are rich with nutrients that attract whales, sharks, dolphins, sea lions, and numerous other big
animals. No landing is permitted on the islands of Wolf and Darwin but it is around these more
remote islands that some of the most impressive encounters occur. Land tours are a big part
of any Galapagos itinerary as well as visits to several visitors centers and research stations.
72
Galapagos Eco Explorer I
Peter Hughes Sky Dancer
ResortQuest at the Maui Banyan
Westin Maui Resort & Spa
ResortQuest at Poipu Kai
Sheraton Kauai Resort
Dive the most remote, pristine seas
in the world aboard the Galapagos
Eco Explorer I. This vessel is new,
fast, and comfortable, providing
air-conditioned staterooms with
private baths. Featuring a large
indoor and open-air salon, viewing
and sundeck area. Enjoy guided
tours, and exotic vistas.
The M/V Sky Dancer, part of the
renowned Peter Hughes Dancer
Fleet, carries 16 divers through the
Galapagos—including Wolf and
Darwin—thrilling them both above
and below the water. Sky Dancer
offers all of the luxury amenities
that have become the hallmark of
the Dancer Fleet.
Maui
This modern resort features
spacious condos especially popular
with groups. With access to pools,
outdoor BBQs and tennis courts,
and close to golf and the beach,
guests can truly experience the
island according to their tastes.
Diving with Maui Dive Shop.
Maui
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa is
situated along a spectacular stretch
of the famed Ka’anapali Beach. This
Maui hotel blends an endless array
of activities and amenities with
gracious aloha spirit, perfect for any
Hawaiian vacation. Diving with
Hawaiian Rafting Adventures.
Kauai
This property sits on 70 acres of
landscaped gardens in a prime
location. A community of condos,
townhouses and private homes
connected by manicured walking
paths, each cluster of living areas
has its own recreational facilities.
Diving with Seasport Divers.
Kauai
Located alongside Poipu Beach
with a variety of activities to fill the
non-diving hours including four
restaurants, a spa and fitness
center, tennis, water sports,
shopping, a kid’s program and even
a torch lighting ceremony at sunset.
Diving with Seasport Divers.
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micronesia
micronesia
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .79-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . .80-100’+
Ocean Hunter I & II
Palau Live-Aboards
The Ocean Hunter I & II provide elite access to Palau’s
famous dive sites. Ocean Hunter II offers six cabins for
12 divers, while Ocean Hunter I caters to small,
exclusive groups of only six divers in three cabins. All
cabins are equipped with ensuite bathroom and airconditioning. The vessels are stable, spacious and
diver-friendly. The crew serves gourmet cuisine with
plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits. Built by the
pioneer divers of Palau for others to explore its
channels, reefs, caves and wrecks in comfort and
luxury, the Ocean Hunters provide the ultimate liveaboard experience in Palau.
GUAM
•
•
•
•
Fiesta
Guam
Guam
Guam
Guam
Hilton
Marriott Resort
Tropical Dive Station
KOSRAE
• Kosrae Village Resort
MARSHALL ISLANDS
• Bikini Hotel
• Marshall Islands Resort
© CARLOS VILLOCH
PALAU
• West Plaza Hotels
• Palau Aggressor II
POHNPEI
The area of the Pacific that is home to the islands of Micronesia is expansive and has a list of
adventures to match. A hotbed of activity during World War II, these islands are home to some
of the world’s most famous wreck dives. Truk Lagoon tops the list with more than 100 wrecks
from Operation Hailstorm including the 500-foot Shinkoku Maru and 437-foot Fujikawa Maru.
Guam was also occupied by the Japanese during the war and has its share of wrecks in Apra
harbor. On its west coast divers will find incredible viz and fabulous diving. In addition to World
War II wrecks and incredible reef diving, the Palau archipelago has unique excursions including
Jellyfish Lake, where you can swim or snorkel among millions of non-stinging creatures, an
experience not-to-be-missed. Micronesia’s culture also runs strong throughout the islands but
perhaps Yap provides the one of the best opportunities to experience their unique way of life.
Here you can stroll down stone paths through villages where mammoth exhibits of stone
money denote wealth and social standing of its owner. But as incredible as this cultural
experience is, it is the diving around Yap that attracts most visitors and the opportunity to dive
with its population of resident manta rays. Divers can supplement their manta encounters with
incredible wall, pass, and cavern dives.
• Cliff Rainbow
• Divelocker FSM
• Pohnpei Village
TRUK
• Truk Stop
ULITHI
• Ulithi Resort
BONUS
• Free Nitrox
• Palau’s only Technical Dive Center
• Lunch and drinks included on all tours
• Fully-equipped and updated operation
• Bar, restaurant, and internet café
Free
Nitrox for
Caradonna
divers
Big Blue Explorer & Eco Explorer
• Palau’s only luxury international resort hotel on one of Koror’s most pristine beaches
• A perfect choice for divers looking for the ultimate dream vacation accommodations
• Elilai Spa by Mandara offers a variety of treatments in peaceful surroundings
• On-site Photo Palau offers a variety of underwater camera rentals and services
• Dives depart daily to Palau's famous dive sites from the resort’s pier
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
Palau
Palau’s pioneer dive shop—established in 1972—invites
you to experience one of the world’s most diverse dive
destinations. Discover pristine reefs, World War II
wrecks, underwater caves and marine lakes. Explore
Palau aboard comfortable, uncrowded, shaded boats
with knowledgeable dive guides. For non-divers, there is
kayaking, sport fishing, trips to Jellyfish Lake and more.
Fish ‘n Fins and the Ocean Hunter live-aboards also
sponsor two weeks of exclusive diving every year. For
big animal encounters, there is shark week, and WWII
buffs will enjoy Wrexpedition—a week-long exploration
of the wrecks of Palau.
• Fiesta Saipan
• Saipan Pacific Islands Club
Palau
The Palau Pacific Resort is the only luxury resort in Palau
featuring 160 deluxe rooms and world-class amenities on
a private 1,000-foot stretch of pristine white sand beach.
Amenities include two restaurants, a beachside bar, pool
and hot tub, shops, activity center, tennis courts and spa.
Lush landscaping—including a fishpond with exotic
marine life—provides a tropical setting for relaxation and
exploration. Enjoy alfresco dining oceanside or try the
Pacific Rim specialties in the resort’s fine dining restaurant.
Dives depart daily from the resort’s private pier and
excellent snorkeling can be found right off the resort’s
beach. Internet access is also available.
BONUS
Exclusive
low season
offers
• Blue Corner
• Chandelier Cave
• Blue Holes
• Peleliu
YAP
• Mi’il Channel
• Lionfish Wall
• Valley of the Rays
• Yap Caverns
TRUK
• Shinkoku Maru
• Fujikawa Maru
• San Francisco Maru
• Northeast Pass
Topside Attractions
Fish N’ Fins Palau
SAIPAN
• O’Keefe’s Waterfront Inn
• Pathways Hotel
PALAU
PALAU
• Rota Coral Gardens
• Sirena Marine
Palau Pacific Resort
74
• Full technical diving services available
• Local captains and dive masters
• New entertainment center and internet access
• Gourmet cuisine with attention to special dietary requests
• Exploratory trips on Ocean Hunter II to the Western Pacific starting in 2008
ROTA
YAP
Favorite Dive Sites
Palau Live-Aboard
Considered one of the world’s premiere diving destinations,
Palau is an island nation of amazing topside topography
as well as breathtaking underwater landscapes.
Experience big fish action in exhilarating current dives Blue
Corner and Ulong Channel, drift along sheer walls with
dramatic swim-throughs at Siaes Tunnel, explore beautiful
Chandelier Cave, visit World War II sites such as Peleliu
and dive a number of historic wrecks. Experience the
wonders of Palau—arrive any day to board the Eco
Explorer stationed near German Channel and offering
dives by tender or join the Big Blue Explorer visiting
different sites during seven-day charters.
• Jellyfish Lake
• Kayak through the Rock
Islands
• WWII relics at Peleliu Island
• Cultural and waterfall tours
YAP
• Hike or bike the Stone Paths
• Sail a traditional Yapese
outrigger
• Remains of a Japanese
WWII aircraft at old airport
• Visit the Ethnic Art Institute
at Trader’s Ridge
TRUK
• Explore historic WWII sites
• Sapuk Lighthouse
• Tonata Guns and Caves
GUAM
• Yokoi’s Cave
• Tarzan Falls
• Chamorro Village for a taste
of local culture
• Visit the CAHA Gallery at
Two Lovers Point
KOSRAE
• Utwe Wahlung Marine
Preserve
• Canoeing through
mangroves
RONGELAP
• Birdwatching
• Beachcombing
There’s More...
• Big Blue Explorer—155-foot vessel offers seven-night charters throughout Palau
• Eco Explorer—150-foot vessel stationed near the German Channel offering “Flexi Dive” plan
• Visiting four to five dive sites per day
• Unlimited non-decompression diving
• Salon and lounge including an entertainment center
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micronesia
micronesia
NECO Marine
Pacific Explorer II
Palau
For the exotic dive traveler who requires a little more than
just great diving, this operation offers a discerning choice
of services. In operation since 1984, NECO Marine is a
PADI 5-Star Gold Palm IDC National Geographic Dive
Center. The state-of-the-art facility offers a wide variety of
service including topside excursions from snorkeling and
kayaking though the Rock Islands to cultural land tours.
The experienced staff is available to guide you through
the ultimate dive vacation. Dive famous sites such as Blue
Corner and Peleliu, do a nautilus dive and visit amazing
Jellyfish Lake. PADI dive courses from beginner to
Instructor are also available.
© ETHAN GORDON
• Established for 20 years with an excellent safety record
• Palauan owned and operated with knowledgeable and experienced staff
• Personalized service to satisfy every diver’s needs
• Newly renovated and award winning facility with extensive amenities
• Custom designed dive boats provide comfortable trips to dive sites
BONUS
Free
Nitrox for
Caradonna
divers
Cliffside Hotel
Truk Lagoon Live-Aboard
Explore the wrecks and reefs from the comfort of this
newly refitted 140-foot live-aboard. Ship interiors are fully
air-conditioned and carpeted, cabins have ensuite toilet
and shower facilities, and common areas include
entertainment center, media library, well-stocked bar and
satellite phone. Divers also have access to a large dive
deck with camera table and showers, a camera room with
charging stations, covered dining deck and two 31-foot
dive tenders. Eleven experienced crew members are at
your service to make sure no needs go unfulfilled. A
maximum capacity of 22 divers assures uncrowded and
comfortable surroundings throughout the charter.
• 140-foot newly refitted live-aboard vessel
• 12 air-conditioned twin cabins with ensuite bathroom/showers
• Four to five dives per day, Nitrox also available
• Unlimited no-decompression diving
• Salon and lounge including an entertainment center
Palau
Air-conditioned bungalows hand
crafted from mahogany, mangrove
and bamboo are situated on a
hilltop and feature ceiling fan,
phone, cable TV, mini-bar, private
bath and balcony with ocean views
and access to the only private
beach on the island.
Truk Blue Lagoon Resort
Kosrae Nautilus Resort
Palau
Located on a quiet hillside overlooking the Koror
Lagoon, the comfortable Cliffside Hotel is only a 10
minute drive away from the center of town, and free
shuttlebus service is provided in the evenings between
the Palau Pacific Resort, Cliffside Hotel and town.
Each of the oversized rooms is air-conditioned and
features an ocean view, and the newly remodeled
façade adds balconies with sweeping views to many
rooms. There is a giftshop and two bars and
restaurants on the property with spectacular ocean
views, and a large swimming pool with hot tub and
sunning deck.
© ETHAN GORDON
• 29 oceanview extra large rooms
• International cuisine
• Fresh local seafood
• Inside and outdoor bars and restaurants
• Pool with sunning deck and hot tub
BONUS
Stay
5 nights,
get a free
dinner for
two
Sam’s Tours
• Free Nitrox on every dive, free mandarin fish and macro dives
• Complimentary trip to Jellyfish Lake with diving
• Newly renovated facility, photo center, internet, bar and grill
• Readers Choice Award Winner for Top Staff and Best Value
• Kayaking, snorkeling, cultural, history, fishing and birding
© ETHAN GORDON
Truk Lagoon
This verdant, 14-acre oasis features breathtaking views of
Truk Lagoon. A walk through the resort grounds will treat
you to tropical gardens, a secluded beach and relics of
WWII. The resort has 54 air-conditioned rooms that are
comfortably furnished with a TV, phone and private
balcony. The restaurant and dining room offer a wonderful
view of the resort grounds and lagoon. The Blue Lagoon
Dive Shop is a full-service dive facility located on the hotel
property. A fleet of fast dive boats offer easy access to the
best wreck diving in the world. Knowledgeable dive guides
offer personalized service catering to small groups who
dive the wreck of their choice.
• Spacious and secluded resort with 54 rooms and suites
• Located at the water’s edge
• Full-service dive shop is located on the hotel property
• Easy access to the best wreck diving in the world
Odyssey Adventures
Palau
This PADI 5-Star National Geographic Dive Center
operates in conjunction with Palau’s preferred hotel
properties, offering complete packages and customized
private charters. Excellent customer care, personalized
attention and professional service have earned Sam’s
Tours eight Scuba Diving Magazine Reader’s Choice
Awards since 1997, including Best Dive Operator, Best
Dive Staff and Best Value. The full-service dive center
includes a professional underwater photo shop,
technical diving support, and a maximum of only eight
divers per guide! Complimentary roundtrip shuttle
service from all Koror hotels.
76
The Carolines Resort
Kosrae Island
Imagine yourself diving a sheer
vertical wall with hundreds of
barracuda encircling you, feel your
eyes widen in amazement at the
huge, remarkably colorful coral reef
systems, or watch the resident
spinner dolphins jump and twirl for
your entertainment.
Thorfinn
Dive with Odyssey Adventures to see the Ghost Fleet of
Truk Lagoon. The 132-foot Odyssey has nine ensuite
staterooms. Designed for up to 16 divers, the Odyssey
is fully air-conditioned and has separate dining and
entertainment lounges. The entertainment lounge has a
large DVD and book library. The sundeck has both
covered and open areas. Diving is directly from the
Odyssey rather than from tenders. The dive deck
includes a large, dry, multi-tiered camera table, personal
gear locker for each diver, large separate rinse tanks for
photo gear and dive gear, freshwater shower and deck
towels. Nitrox is free onboard the Odyssey.
• Seven nights accommodation with six days of unlimited diving
• Includes all meals and beverages, including beer and wine
• Diving directly from Odyssey rather than from dive tenders
• Separate dining and entertainment lounges
• Staterooms have private bathroom, individual air-conditioning control, DVD player
This 170-foot ship boasts 11 airconditioned guest rooms with
private facilities. A flow of delicious
meals are prepared daily. The lounge
has a TV and a library of books on
the wrecks in Truk Lagoon. Four dive
tenders carry six divers on four
different wrecks simultaneously.
77
micronesia
Manta Ray Bay Resort
Yap
This dedicated dive resort features 35 luxury hotel
rooms, a full-service dive store, a fleet of seven boats,
photography shop, and a luxury infinity swimming pool
right on the property, Manta Ray Bay Resort is an easy
choice for a great vacation. Moored along the dock is
one of the most unique restaurants in the world, the
120-foot South Seas Schooner Mnuw, offering casual,
fine dining. Or visit the Crow’s Nest, a fabulous open
air bar on the top deck. Experience reefs, walls,
mantas, sharks, Mandarin fish, drift dives, Nitrox and
more—all with the expertise of Yap Divers.
BONUS
© CARLOS VILLOCH
• $2.5 million+ in renovations
• A full-service PADI 5-star dive facility
• Manta Visions Photo & Video Center
• Cultural and kayak tours
• S/V Mnuw floating restaurant and micro brewery
Free
Nitrox and
free spaces
for groups
Traders’ Ridge Resort
Yap
Unique to Micronesia, this property offers the amenities of
a four-star boutique resort while preserving the rich
cultural traditions found in Yap. The on-site dive operation,
Traders’ Ridge Dive Center, offers a full range of dive
excursions and valet dive service, including towels and
refreshments served on board and a maximum of 10
divers per boat. After diving, guests can enjoy drinks at
the poolside bar, gourmet dining in the restaurant, or a
traditional Yapese massage. Authentic handmade arts
and crafts are also produced on-site. A wide variety of
topside activities are also available including hiking, biking,
kayaking, fishing and cultural tours.
© CARLOS VILLOCH
• Luxury in a remote setting overlooking Chammorro Bay and the ocean beyond
• Fine dining at the Veranda View Restaurant after a dive at Traders’ Ridge Dive Center
• Home to the Ethnic Art Institute of Micronesia
• Nitrox for free, manta dives, shark feeding, mandarin fish dives and more
• A full range of dive courses available from Discover Scuba, Manta Specialty to Divemaster
Royal Orchid Hotel
Guam
Overlooking Tumon Bay, the Royal Orchid Hotel
features 205 guest rooms and suites blending the best
of European design with modern amenities to
comfortably accommodate every dive enthusiast.
Whether your visit to Guam is for a one-day layover or
a long stay, your comfort and relaxation is top priority.
Marble entranceways, spacious bathrooms with
separate bathtub and marble shower, large beds and
high speed internet access are just some of the
standard amenities in every room. Enjoy one of four
on-site restaurants, then walk to the beach, shops,
entertainment and more—all one block away.
© CARLOS VILLOCH
• Sophisticated accommodations in standard or deluxe rooms
• High speed broadband and pay-per-view
• Four popular restaurants with bar
• Private gym, pool and hot tub
• Spacious marble bathrooms with bathtub and shower
78
solomon islands
tahiti & her islands
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .72-85°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .80-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
Favorite Dive Sites
• Marovo Lagoon
• Florida Island Group
• Uepi Island
• Russel Island
Topside Attractions
• Alan’s Vanilla Tour, Taha’a
• Bloody Mary’s, Bora Bora
• Havaiki Pearl Farm,
Fakarava
• Gaugin Pearls, Rangiroa
Topside Attractions
• Lake Te’Nggano (UNESCO
World Heritage Site)
• Mataniko Falls
• Visits to local villages
• Uepi Island Resort
There’s More...
BORA BORA
• Bora Bora Nui Resort
• Intercontinental le Moana
Bora Bora
• Intercontinental Thalasso
Spa Bora Bora
• Le Meridien Bora Bora
• Nemo World
• Novotel Bora Bora Beach
Resort
• St. Regis Resort
FAKARAVA
• Fakarava Diving Center
• Havaiki Guest House &
Pearl Farm
• Te Ava Nui
MOOREA
This remote South Pacific outpost was the site of one of the most ferocious battles of World
War II, but dive beneath the surface and you will find a pristine underwater environment. The
majority of dives take place along soft-coral covered walls and bommies—fissured pinnacles
and caverns with marine life ranging from rare macro critters to impressive pelagics. The
widest range of sites can be reached by live-aboard—but be sure to experience some of the
islands’ natural, cultural, and historic sites.
• Hotel Hibiscus
• Hotel Kaveka
• Intercontinental Resort &
Spa Moorea
• Moorea Fun Dive
• Sheraton Moorea Lagoon
RANGIROA
• Huamana Cruises
• Novotel Rangiroa Lagoon
Resort
• Pension Bounty
TAHA’A
Solomon Islands Live-Aboard
The M/V Bilikiki and M/V Spirit of Solomons are the
premier live-aboards in the Solomon Islands and are both
large and stable ships designed for South Pacific
conditions. Both ships offer immense sun decks, plenty of
shaded areas and air-conditioned accommodations. The
walls, reefs, pinnacles and coral gardens of the Solomon
Islands support an amazing variety of sea life—the
varieties of fish are staggering. Anemone fish, angel fish,
butterfly fish, humphead parrot fish and other reef
dwellers are seen in vast numbers, while just a short
distance away schools of barracuda, big-eye trevally and
other pelagics cruise the blue waters.
• Solomon Islands’ premier live-aboards
• 7, 9, 12, and 14-night voyages
• Walls, wrecks, reef and muck dives
• Nitrox available
• South Pacific diving at its finest
80
TAHITI
• Intercontinental Tahiti
• Radisson Plaza Tahiti
• Sheraton Hotel Tahiti
There’s More...
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
• Pension Au Phil de Temps
Bilikiki Cruises
The drop-dead gorgeous Society Islands and the remote archipelago of the Tuamotus offer
everything from shallow lagoon dives with rays to the adrenaline-pumping pass dives with walls
of grey sharks. French Polynesia’s fields of hard corals are also home to a wide variety of
tropical Pacific fish and reef dwellers from clams with vibrantly-colored mantles to the curious
Napolean wrasse. Manta rays, hammerhead sharks, and dolphins also frequent these waters
which are renowned for their big animal encounters. Many areas of French Polynesia are still
relatively undeveloped, undiscovered, and offer adventurous travelers exciting excursions on
land and by sea. Hiking, surfing, 4x4 drive safaris, historical sights, Polynesian cultural shows,
dolphin and stingray encounters, and trips to black pearl farms are all must-do excursions.
Live-aboard diving is also available as well as bareboat charters for those sailing divers who
want to experience some of the most famous cruising grounds in the South Pacific.
81
Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa
Moorea Pearl Resort & Spa
Raiatea Hawaiki Nui Hotel
Manihi Pearl Beach Resort
Bora Bora
Located on a private white sand
“motu,” this resort features spacious
garden and beach suites with
private plunge pools and overwater
bungalows. In addition to the on-site
dive center, you’ll find kayaks,
outrigger canoes, a snorkeling
beach, world-class spa and more.
Moorea
A small luxury resort, this traditional
Polynesian-style hotel faces the
lagoon with a breathtaking backdrop
of verdant peaks, and offers
overwater, beach, garden, pool
and family bungalows. Two
restaurants, an infinity pool and
spa services are on-site.
Raiatea
Featuring traditional garden, lagoon
and overwater bungalows, this
resort shares a lagoon with the
neighboring island of Taha’a,
making both islands’ dive sites
easily accessible. Explore the 19th
century shipwreck, the Nordby,
located just 100 feet from the resort.
Moorea
Famous for black pearls and
incredible diving, this atoll offers sites
that are protected from wind and
waves with moderate currents and
great visibility. This idyllic resort
offers beach and overwater
bungalows overlooking the multicolored waters of the lagoon.
Blue Nui Dive Centers
TOPdive Dive Centers
Bora Bora, Taha’a, Tikehau, Manihi
Blue Nui Dive Centers will surpass
your expectations as they share
their passion for the beauty of the
underwater world of French
Polynesia. The very best the Tahitian
Islands have to offer in Bora Bora,
Taha’a, Tikehau, and Manihi.
The Six Passengers
Rangiroa
The diving center—a Polynesian
style bungalow—is situated just a
little way from the Kia Ora Hotel,
on the beach of Ohutu bay, the
most beautiful bay of Rangiroa.
They specialize in pelagic, shark
and dolphin encounters. Private
diving on demand.
82
Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahiti, Rangiroa, Fakarava
TOPdive offers full-service PADI 5-star dive centers
throughout Tahiti and her islands. All locations are
strategically located to provide easy access to the best
dive sites. TOPdive Bora Bora is on-site at Bora Bora Dive
Resort. TOPdive Fakarava is on-site at the Maitai Dream
resort. TOPdive Tahiti is on-site at the Sheraton. TOPdive
Rangiroa is seconds from the famous Tiputa Pass.
TOPdive Moorea is on Cook’s Bay near the Avaroa Pass.
Boats are designed and built with both comfort and safety
in mind and to suit each location’s specific needs. Nitrox
is available for those who are Nitrox certified in Bora Bora,
Moorea and Rangiroa.
• Operations in Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahiti, Rangiroa and Fakarava
• Nitrox offered in Moorea, Bora Bora and Rangiroa
• Strategically located to be close to Tahiti’s best dive sites
• Fast boats designed for both safety and comfort
• 10-dive package can be shared between all TOPdive locations
BONUS
Free
Nitrox
Bora Bora Dive Resort
Bora Bora
This dedicated dive resort is situated lagoonfront on the
mainland of Bora Bora and in close proximity to the pass
and Bora Bora’s best dive sites. The resort is also home
to the Kon Tiki restaurant, one of Bora Bora’s finest
dining experiences. Nine air-conditioned bungalows
offer well-appointed and comfortable accommodations,
a fresh water pool and diving with one of Tahiti’s
premiere dive operations, TOPdive Bora Bora, a fullservice on-site PADI dive center offering Nitrox. TOPdive
also has locations in Tahiti, Moorea, Rangiroa and
Fakarava for a full range of exciting dive experiences
throughout French Polynesia.
• World class diving with sharks, manta rays, dolphins and whales
• Convenient location allows return to resort between morning dives
• Boutique resort within walking distance of Bora Bora’s main village, Vaitape
• Kon Tiki Restaurant, one of Bora Bora’s finest dining experiences
• Cultural entertainment in the evenings
BONUS
Free
Nitrox
tonga
Fakarava
Fakarava’s only resort offers an exclusive Tuamotu
experience focusing on peace, quiet and comfort. Onsite operator TOPdive Fakarava offers daily trips to the
most exciting pass dive, Garuae Pass. Day trips to the
south pass, Tetamanu—a UNESCO Biosphere
Reserve—are also available, conditions permitting.
Accommodations are in beautiful and well-equipped
spacious bungalows offering luxury and privacy.
Excellent service is offered by a welcoming Polynesian
staff. The restaurant serves delicious fresh cuisine—a
delicate blend of creative French recipes with innovative
tropical flavors and ingredients.
© KAREN VARNDELL
• Pristine marine environment
• On-site TOPdive Fakarava, direct beach and lagoon access
• Cozy bar and excellent dining, internet access in the lobby
• Bicycles or scooters available to visit the typical lovely village or wander around
• Spacious bungalows with indoor/outdoor bathroom and satellite TV
BONUS
Stay 4 nights
and pay for
only 3 from
Jan to Mar
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . . . . .80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . .60-100’
Wetsuit . . . . . . . . . . . . .3mm
Favorite Dive Sites
• Clan McWilliam
• Kimmie’s Reef
• Split Rock
• Mariners Cave
Topside Attractions
• Whale watching Jul-Nov
• Hike Mt. Talau National Park
• Mountain biking and sailing
There’s More...
© KAREN VARNDELL
Maitai Dream Fakarava
Paradise International Hotel
Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora
Vava’u
Located on 12 acres of lush tropical gardens, this
hotel offers panoramic views and spectacular sunsets
over the Port of Refuge Harbor. Accommodations
include 48 well-appointed harbor and garden view
rooms, each with air-conditioning, private balconies,
refrigerator, coffee/tea makers, telephone and wireless
internet access and hot water bath. The Paradise
International Hotel prides itself in its high level of
service, quality cuisine and beautiful surroundings in
the Kingdom of Tonga.
Bora Bora
Located at the south tip of the main island of Bora
Bora, Le Maitai Polynesia is nestled against a hillside
overlooking the lagoon in lush tropical gardens. Ideally
located near Matira Point and its gorgeous beaches,
the hotel offers a range of services and a variety of
accommodations, from overwater bungalows to airconditioned rooms—some with a fantastic view over
the lagoon and the ocean—for all budgets. The
Polynesian-style architecture and use of natural
materials creates a warm and charming atmosphere.
A wide choice of activities and excursions will make
your stay unforgettable. Maitai: “All is great” in Tahitian!
© CARLOS VILLOCH
• Air-conditioned oceanview rooms
• Affordable overwater bungalows with air-conditioning
• Minibar, in-room safe, hairdryer, TV
• Two restaurants, one bar, breakfast included during low season
• Activities/excursions desk, rentals
BONUS
Stay 4 nights
and pay for
only 3 from
Jan to Mar
• Private island location with stunning views of Mt. Otemanu
• Authentic Polynesian design and decor
• Features the only tree-house spa in the South Pacific, Maru Spa
• Beautifully landscaped grounds with lush tropical plants, trees and flowers
• Personalized service
Dive Vava’u
Vava’u
This boutique island resort is nestled on the
beachfront of the island of Utungake, renown for being
a place where you can do it all—or nothing at all. It
offers the diver the best of both worlds: the isolation of
an island with the convenience of being linked to the
mainland by a causeway. The 12 individually-themed
sun-dappled rooms all have inspiring views of the
golden sand beach and crystal clear, turquoise waters
of The Port of Refuge Harbor. The rooms are only a
few feet from the water’s edge and each is equipped
with air-conditioning or ceiling fan, coffee and tea
facilities and ensuite bathroom with hot shower.
Bora Bora
An Orient-Express hotel, this resort is set on 12 lush
acres of tropical paradise on Motu Toopua, a small
island in the middle of Bora Bora’s famous lagoon,
surrounded by clear tri-color blue waters and views of
the enchanted emerald peaks of Mt. Otemanu.
Offering 76 Polynesian-style bungalows which pay
homage to the magnificent natural setting, the facilities
include two restaurants, two bars, tennis courts, the
Maru Spa, two beaches, complimentary nonmotorized watersport and complimentary shuttle boat
to Vaitape Village on the main island of Bora Bora.
Diving with TOPdive Bora Bora.
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
Free
room
upgrade
Tongan Beach Resort
Bora Bora Lagoon Resort & Spa
84
BONUS
• Complimentary “Continental Plus Breakfast”
• Complimentary sundown cocktail hour
• Complimentary airport shuttle service
• Cultural show with island cuisine every Friday
• Service-oriented staff and commitment to guest satisfaction
The deep Tongan Trench lies
east of this island nation
where the big draw is a
possible encounter with the
humpbacks that migrate to
these waters every year
between July and November
to mate and give birth.
Protective measures have
been put in place to ensure
that the whales’ natural
behavior is not disturbed.
The diving in Vava’u is equally
exciting
with
dramatic
underwater landscapes
including caverns, caves and
tunnels as well as reefs,
wrecks, and walls covered in
soft corals and sea fans.
• Experience Captain Cook’s “Friendly Isles”
• Restaurant and bar serving fresh local produce
• Remote island hopping with snorkeling
• Also offering surfing, kayaking and big game fishing
• Weekly cultural show
BONUS
Unlimited
use of
tanks for
shore diving
Vava’u
This PADI 5-Star Resort Dive Center
offers great year-round diving on
coral reefs, stunning caverns and
swim throughs. The magnificent
humpback whale visits these waters
from July to November. Full-service
photo and video center. Courses
from Discover Scuba to Instructor.
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indonesia
indonesia
Kararu Dive Voyages
Indonesian Live-Aboard
Join the expedition of a lifetime in Indonesia, the world’s
last diving frontier and the richest marine habitat on Earth.
Kararu’s new vessel, the 160-foot Cheng Ho, has been
customized for long range live-aboard diving expeditions
in total comfort with high standards of service. The
spacious Voyager features three decks, individually airconditioned cabins, staterooms and dining salon, e-mail
access and sundecks, plus top quality diving and
underwater photography equipment. There’s also a library
with a wide selection of books, music and videos and a
computer station. Itineraries include Komodo Marine Park,
Irian Jaya and Raja Ampat, Alor and more.
Favorite Dive Sites
• Wakatobi House Reef
• Raja Ampat
• Sebayor Kecil, Komodo
• Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi
Topside Attractions
• Komodo dragons
• Spiritual Bali
BALI
•
•
•
•
Bali Hai Diving Adventures
Baruna Water Sports
Parigata Resorts
Tauch Terminal Tulamben
MISOOL
• 13 guest cabins for a maximum of 20 divers
• Cinema room with DVD/CD library and wine cellar
• Massage and spa services available on-board
• Satellite phone and email access
Kungkungan Bay Resort
• Misool Eco Resort
• Kasawari Lembeh Resort
• Siladen Island Resort
• Grand Komodo Tours & Diving
LIVE-ABOARDS
• North Sulawesi Aggressor
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
There’s More...
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Peter Hughes Paradise Dancer
North Sulawesi
The Lembeh Strait is renowned as being the planet’s
epicenter of marine biodiversity. Home to rare species
such as the pygmy seahorse, mimic octopus, ornate
ghost pipefish, hairy frogfish and more, the exceptional
year-round conditions provide a variety of diving
experiences from muck dives on black volcanic sand to
colorful reefs and historic wrecks. Kungkungan Bay
Resort is located within 15 minutes from over 30 dive
sites. An intimate and exclusive resort, Kungkungan is
staffed by a friendly, professional team catering to every
need. The restaurant provides a wide variety of local and
Western cuisine in hearty portions.
NORTH SULAWESI
With 17,000 islands within its borders and the world’s richest marine biodiversity, Indonesia
is one of the dream destinations of the diving world. One way to explore this area is by liveaboard with itineraries covering Bali, Komodo, the Banda Sea, and Raja Ampat.
Alternatively, some of the premiere dive resorts of the world exist in the Sulawesi area of
Indonesia. Rich in culture, history, and nature, the Indonesia experience is as diverse as its
marine environments. Fringing reefs, sea mounts, walls, canyons, sea grass beds, white
and black sand site beaches, and extraordinary critters in muck. Popular dives include
thrilling current-swept channels to protected lees, harboring thousands of fish. Komodo
National Park, home to the famous Komodo dragon, was declared a World Heritage Site
and a Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1986. Sulawesi, north of Bali, is also an
area renowned for its diving. From Wakatobi in the south to the Lembeh Strait in the north,
Sulawesi has earned a reputation for its epic diving while Raja Ampat is on the cutting edge
of pristine dive regions being explored.
© KAREN VARNDELL
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .80-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . .80-100’
• A PADI 5-Star Gold Palm IDC Resort, dive groups limited to four divers per guide
• Swim-up pool bar
• All rooms are ocean-facing and internet access is available
• Nitrox, camera storage and catering to divers of all levels
• Overwater restaurant serving Western and Indonesian cuisine
The newest and largest vessel in the
Dancer Fleet, the 141-foot Paradise
Dancer features the high end
amenities that guests expect. The
three-masted schooner cruises out
of North Sulawesi, offering three to
four dives per day in some of the top
critter spots in Indonesia.
Pelagian Dive Yacht by Wakatobi
Peter Hughes Komodo Dancer
This renowned luxury yacht offers efficient, friendly and
professional diving services on some of the world’s most
pristine reefs with comforts rarely found on live-aboards.
Full on-board amenities, delicious cuisine, eco-participation
and private air charter access make this one of the most
sought after live-aboards in Indonesia. Amenities include
camera facilities, comfortable lounge areas and spacious
cabins. Exceptional service is provided by highly
experienced Western cruise directors and dive guides and
a friendly Indonesian crew. Pelagian explores the greater
Wakatobi region’s outer reefs as well as amazing muck
diving sites seen by only a few other divers.
• Exclusive, spacious and comfortable for a maximum of 12 divers—over 115 feet of comfort
• Highly skilled instructor-level dive guides and an experienced boat crew
• Generous 70-minute dives, Nitrox as well as oxygen and scrubber available
• Visiting areas of high biodiversity and abundant marine life (reefs and muck)
• Active contributor to Wakatobi’s award-winning conservation programs
The M/V Komodo Dancer—the
only motor sailer in the renowned
Peter Hughes Dancer Fleet—takes
16 divers around the historic
Komodo National Park. Komodo
Dancer offers all of the luxury
amenities that have become the
hallmark of the Dancer Fleet.
87
indonesia
indonesia
Tasik Ria Resort
Lembeh Resort & Minahasa Lagoon
North Sulawesi
Offering easy access to the renowned coral reefs of
Bunaken National Park, the dramatic wall dives are
packed with hard and soft corals, providing a perfect
habitat for a wide range of species from sharks and huge
turtles to tiny gobies and shrimp, as well as rare creatures
such as the nudibranch, leaf fish, pipefish and seahorse.
On-site Eco Divers offers three-tank dive excursions
aboard their spacious boats, complete with two heads, a
comfortable dining salon and large sundeck. The resort is
set in lush surroundings of coconut palms and gardens
and offers two pools, a new spa and two restaurants and
bars, all with spectacular views of the setting sun.
• On-site dive operator Eco Divers, a PADI 5-Star Gold Palm IDC Resort
• Free-form pool with swim-up bar and kid’s pool
• Matana Spa offers full range of Indonesian therapies
• All rooms air-conditioned, with ensuite bathroom, TV, phone, mini-bar, safe
• Topside excursions available including white water rafting, nature tours and more
BONUS
Free
“Jet Lag”
massage
on arrival
North Sulawesi
Two beautiful resorts combine to offer luxury, comfort and
amazing diving. Lembeh Strait is a critter paradise and
underwater photographer’s dream. Lembeh Resort’s
tropical setting offers a boutique resort experience amid
over 40 incredible macro sites. An expert dive team will
introduce you to unique critters in this mecca of macro
diving. Minhasa Lagoon’s oceanview cottages sit
between virgin rainforest and Bunaken Park’s pristine
waters. Enjoy international cuisine, cultural and adventure
tours. Laze at the beachfront infinity pool or be pampered
at the Lagoon Spa. Both resorts offer Nitrox, camera
facilities, massage, pool and internet access.
• Three-to-one guest-to-guide ratio with flexible dive schedules and site selection
• Nitrox, camera facilities, massage, pool and internet access
• Knowledgeable dive team with over 45,000 Lembeh Strait dives
• Nitrox available, spacious camera centers
• Fully air-conditioned cottages with Balinese style bathrooms
Wakatobi Dive Resort
Pindito
The Pindito offers cruises the Komodo National Park
and Raja Ampat, as well as an adventure diving tour
between the two regions. Enjoy the breathtaking
scenery of the underwater world of Indonesia.
Experienced in the area for more than 15 years, Pindito
was the first vessel to cruise Raja Ampat—years before
any other live-aboard was there. A unique combination
of comfort and the ambience of the unique Indonesian
way will assure you an unforgettable holiday. You’ll
experience virgin dive sites of unparalleled excellence
combined with the breathtaking beauty of the remote
regions during the best times of the season.
• The first live-aboard cruising the Raja Ampat region
• 137-foot Pinisi-style Indonesian sailing vessel built in the early 1990s
• Meticulously maintained to ensure the highest standards of safety and reliability
• Spacious cabins provide comfortable air-conditioned quarters for up to 16 guests
• Passengers board as guests and leave as friends
BONUS
Free
Nitrox
• The exclusive resort/dive operator in a vast area of pristine dive sites
• Comfortable dive boats, highly skilled instructor-level dive guides
• Team of chefs includes a pastry chef, gourmet food and a superb wine selection
• Three 75-minute boat dives a day plus unlimited shore diving is included
• Nitrox as well as some rebreather provisions also available
Archipelago Adventurer II
Seven Seas was designed as a comfortable live-aboard
while maintaining the original shape and size of
traditional Buginese schooners. Easily accommodating
16 guests, Seven Seas promises a high quality diving
and adventure holiday with a safe platform for your
underwater photography and exploration in the most
remote areas of Eastern Indonesia. The crew is
extremely experienced, and no matter what your level
of diving, your dive guides will adjust to your particular
comfort zone. If you want to take a break from diving,
opportunities to snorkel, kayak, take bird walks and
learn about local culture are available.
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
• The best diving in Eastern Indonesia, hidden bays, pristine reefs and secret spots
• Four double and four twin air-conditioned state rooms with ensuite bathrooms
• Western operated with very experienced local crew from all over Indonesia
• Spacious dive deck, large sundeck, shaded lounge areas, spa services and boutique
• Special cruises include free diving, family trips, scientific and photo documentaries
88
BONUS
Free
30-minute
massage
The Archipelago Adventurer II sets the new standard for
Indonesian live-aboards. Venture to the largely
unexplored region of the Banda Sea—and now new
itineraries to the stunning Raja Ampat islands—aboard
one of the area’s most luxurious live-aboards. Voyages
to Banda and Misool offer some of the most pristine
diving in the world, however they also visit historically
significant sites from the early days of exploration. In
1667, the island of Run in the Banda Archipelago was
deemed significant enough for the Dutch to have traded
the island of New Amsterdam (now Manhattan) for
Banda from the English for its wealth of nutmeg.
• Expansive outdoor deck and social areas
• Extensive gourmet Western and Asian menu
• Hotel-standard ensuite cabins
• Custom-designed aluminum dive tenders
BONUS
Free
Nitrox
on all
cruises
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
Seven Seas Live-Aboard
Banda Sea
Reached via private charter from Bali, this resort provides
divers with access to some of the world’s most pristine
reefs. Topside comforts are indulgent when combined with
the freedom of up to seven dives a day with unlimited
shore diving on a spectacular house reef. Indulge in a
massage, relax on the beach and savor fantastic, fresh
meals. Air-conditioned bungalows are either set in tropical
gardens or beachside with fans, minibar and internet
access. Suites with a private chef/butler are also available.
Wakatobi was created as an environmentally sustainable
resort in collaboration with local residents, benefiting both
divers and the local villagers alike.
89
malaysia
maldives
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-82°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . . . . .84°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . .100’+
Favorite Dive Sites
• Barracuda Point, Sipadan
• Turtle Cavern, Sipadan
• Eel Garden, Mabul
• Checkpoint, Kapalai Island
Favorite Dive Sites
• Lions Head, North Male Atoll
• Cocoa Thila, South Male Atoll
• Maaya Thila, Ari Atoll
Topside Attractions
• Sepilok Orangutan Preserve
• Climb Mount Kinabalu
Topside Attractions
• Seaplane tours
• Deserted island picnic
There’s More...
MALE
• Hulhule Island Hotel
LIVE-ABOARDS
• Maldives Aggressor
Looking for some of the best diving on the planet? Look no further than Sipadan. Vast numbers
of green and hawksbill turtles breed on the surrounding beaches. Huge resident schools of
barracuda and trevally patrol the drop-off. The muck diving is top-notch. And no trip to Malaysia
is complete without a visit to mainland Sabah to experience its jungles and rainforests—filled with
wildlife including endemic and endangered species of apes, elephants and even rhinoceros.
Borneo Divers Mabul Resort
Mabul
Marvel at the underwater treasures
of Sipadan and Mabul. This dive
resort offers 30 fully air-conditioned
chalets with new upgraded deluxe
rooms, swimming pool, free
broadband access and a relaxing
beachside massage overlooking the
Celebes Sea to pamper divers.
90
There’s More...
© CARLOS MINGUELL
© TIM ROCK
Sipadan Water Village
Mabul
Sipadan Water Village offers superb
diving combined with the comfort of
a top-notch dive resort. Built entirely
over-the-water, each room is an
individual bungalow with a private
balcony. Divers have easy access to
world-class shore diving on Mabul,
plus three boat dives daily.
Sipadan-Kapalai Dive Resort
Over 1,100 tiny islands in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives offer some of the most scenic
seascapes on Earth. Much of the diving here is current diving—big animal encounters such
as sharks and manta rays. Cruising the atolls is the best way to see the archipelago’s prime
dive sites. The leeward side of the pinnacles, walls, and channels shelter large schools of
fish in water with visibility that sometimes exceeds 200 feet.
Manthiri
Kapalai
Located only a few minutes by boat from the worldrenowned dive sites of Sipadan, this over-water resort
comprised of water chalets sits on sturdy stilts above the
sand banks of the Ligitan Reefs in the Celebes Sea.
Meals are served in the open-air central structure which
includes a sundeck where divers can enjoy a drink and
after-dive chats during a fabulous sunset. Diving around
Kapalai is spectacular, hosting an amazing array of small,
colorful creatures—the diving here is an unforgettable
experience for any discerning photographer. The resort
offers three dives a day, including trips to Sipadan for
spectacular wall diving and Mabul for muck diving.
• Dive all three famed dive islands of Sipadan, Kapalai and Mabul
• 40 water chalets with private balconies and ensuite bathrooms
• Maximum 10 divers per boat (twin engine fiber glass)
• Unlimited shore diving and mandarin fish mating sunset/night dives
• Gear up, walk down, jump and dive, right from the dive center
Peter Hughes Ocean Dancer
The atolls of the Maldives offer some of the world’s
most spectacular diving. Experience the thrill of diving
these pristine areas from the comfort of a spacious
and luxurious live-aboard dedicated to excellence in
every aspect. Her experienced crew will introduce you
to a sanctuary of rich and diverse marine life with
galaxies of large and small fish that inhabit the
Maldives numerous dive sites. Dive breathtakingly
beautiful pinnacles, sea mounts, walls and channels
where colonies of hard and soft corals are plentiful.
Whale sharks and giant manta rays are also sighted
year-round. Exciting opportunities abound for
underwater photographers.
• A crew of 11 caters to every need from arrival to departure
• Two chefs prepare delicious, sumptuous meals and snacks
• 12 guests in six spacious cabins—four twin cabins and two queen cabins
• Individually controlled air-conditioned cabins with ensuite bathroom
• Personal storage and minibar in each cabin
The M/V Ocean Dancer offers 16
divers the best of the Maldives,
moving with the seasons and the
currents, thereby optimizing large
marine life encounters. Ocean
Dancer offers all of the luxury
amenities that have become the
hallmark of the Peter Hughes
Dancer Fleet.
91
papua new guinea
papua new guinea
Spirit of Niugini
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . .78-84°
Visibility . . . . . . . . .60-100+’
Papua New Guinea Live-Aboard
The Spirit of Niugini is Papua New Guinea’s newest
state-of-the-art luxury live-aboard. If you are looking
to experience the most unique itineraries offered
anywhere in the world—taking you to the farthest
reaches of the most pristine reefs on this planet—then
this majestic place is the right choice. In addition to
the exquisite cuisine that is served three times a day,
you will be pampered by a very experienced staff that
understands the demands of the diver, allowing you to
enjoy the most bizarre underwater creatures and
largest pelagics found anywhere on the planet.
Insider Tip
• Bring a 220v Australian
adapter
Favorite Dive Sites
• Albatross Pass, Kavieng
• Dinah’s Beach, Milne Bay
• Susan’s Shoal, Kimbe Bay
• Veale Reef, Solomon Sea
Topside Attractions
• Skull Caves, Milne Bay
• Sepik River Cruise
• Hot River Trip, New Britain
• PNG Art, Port Moresby
KAVIENG
• All-inclusive
• Eight spacious cabins with individually controlled air-conditioning, music and private bath
• Exquisite cuisine from a master chef
• Photo and video padded storage and charging stations, on-deck photo rinse tanks
• Experienced divemasters available for every dive, full Nitrox system on board
Solomon Sea
Nestled in the only fjord country in
Papua New Guinea, this boutique
upmarket resort offers macro
diving at its best along with great
outer reef diving. Tufi Dive Resort
also offers snorkeling, cultural
trips, fishing, outrigger safaris and
trekking.
Walindi Plantation Resort
Lissenung Island
• Treehouse Village Eco Resort
Kimbe Bay
Walindi Plantation Resort has long set the standard in
catering to the diver who craves the very best. Stunning
vistas above the water are surpassed by the profusion of
corals and sheer abundance of marine life beneath the
sun-drenched turquoise waters of Kimbe Bay. Located
at the very epicenter of the Coral Triangle, divers are
treated to some of the greatest concentrations of tropical
marine bio-diversity in the world. Twelve charming bures
are nestled in tropical landscaping. The main house offers
informal dining and after-dive socializing. The resort’s
exclusivity ensures that each guest has their needs
anticipated. Arrive as a guest but leave as a friend!
LIVE-ABOARDS
• Golden Dawn
• Telita
Peter Hughes Star Dancer
The M/V Star Dancer, a member of
the renowned Peter Hughes Dancer
Fleet, offers 16 divers several unique
itineraries, maximizing weather
conditions year-round. Star Dancer
offers all of the luxury amenities that
have become the hallmark of the
Dancer Fleet.
92
Tawali Resort
Michele Westmorland
©
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
There’s More...
One of Earth’s last frontiers, this wild and primitive island country is at the top of most diver’s
dream list. The epic diving in the areas of Milne Bay, Kimbe Bay, and the Solomon Sea offer a
diversity of experiences that few other destinations can match. From pass diving in Kavieng to
diving with Orcas in Kimbe—not to mention the World War II wrecks of Rabaul and Bootless
Bay—there is enough to fill countless dive expeditions. Traveling through Papua New Guinea is
an adventure in itself. The country is just as culturally diverse—over 800 languages are spoken
and village life is much like it was 100 years ago.
Tufi Dive Resort
BONUS
• Beachfront tropical bungalows
• World-class diving
• Day trips to hot springs and hot river
• Nestled in a tropical rainforest
• Small numbers, friendly staff
Save 20%
when you
book from
Jan to Apr
Febrina
Milne Bay
Located on a volcanic bluff overlooking the clear
protected waters of Milne Bay and accessible only by
boat, Tawali Resort offers travelers a unique location to
dive, relax and enjoy the most pristine, culturally rich
destination on the planet. Large, air-conditioned
bungalows sit on a phenomenal house reef in an
exclusive atmosphere with an emphasis on personal
service. Minutes from the resort, fast spacious day
boats will take you to the most marine-rich untouched
reefs anywhere in the world. Stepping off the back of
the boat you will descend into an amazing new
Technicolor dimension like no other.
• All-inclusive
• Air-conditioned rosewood bures with unbelievable views of Hoia and Milne bays
• Exquisite cuisine from a master chef
• Photo and video camera room and storage facilities
• Movie room showing the latest from your photos/video
Kavieng
With only four premium bungalows,
a visit here is truly exclusive. Settled
in the most prestigious dive area in
Papua New Guinea, due to the
confluence of the Bismark and
Pacific Seas. The most experienced
dive operation in Kavieng, European
managed with PADI courses.
Loloata Island Resort
Professionalism, passion and pride combine to make the
perfect package aboard the M/V Febrina. A live-aboard
steeped in the diving folklore of Papua New Guinea,
Febrina has attracted a dedicated and enthusiastic band
of followers from around the world. From the passionate
sports diver to the very best underwater photographers,
Papua New Guinea has long been a mecca for
incomparable diving. Febrina offers some of Papua New
Guinea’s best diving for small intimate groups, ensuring
that you get the most out of your diving vacation—a
lifetime of memories of the enchanted island and the
diving that this destination is famous for.
• Set up for divers, easy access duckboard, Nitrox available
• Moorings to all the best dive sites
• Helpful critter-spotting dive crew
• Varied gourmet menus, plentiful snacks
• Comfortable air-conditioned cabins
BONUS
Save 10%
on July and
August 2008
itineraries
Bootless Bay
An intimate 21-bungalow island
resort just 25 minutes from the
airport. Daily operation of two 30foot aluminum dive boats—each
accommodating ten divers—to over
30 moored dive sites. This property
is renowned for quality service, fine
food and excellent diving.
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philippines
© RICK SASS
The UNESCO World Heritage site of
Tubbataha in the Sulu Sea might ring a bell
with well-traveled divers, but the
Philippines are probably one of the least
visited—but one of the most worthy—dive
destinations in the world. Located north of
Malaysian Borneo and Indonesia, the
7,107 islands in the Philippine archipelago
offer a number of top-rated dive areas in
addition to Tubbataha—which is only
accessible between March and June—
including other remote areas such as Apo
Reef and Coron, which are only accessible
by live-aboard. There is plenty of excellent
land-based diving, such as Apo Island—
accessible from Dumaguete—where
shoals of jacks and giant parrotfish are
often seen in addition to large pelagics.
Oceanic Explorer
Topside Attractions
• Golf and even motorcross
• Waterfall tours
• Authentic native markets
There’s More...
Dumaguete
This relaxed, first-class eco-resort is located
beachfront among several marine sanctuaries. Dive
local islands including world-famous Apo, Siquijor
(Island of Witches), and even fabled Balicasag.
Stunning walls, dramatic drifts and some of the best
muck diving in Asia are all easily available including
abundant resident mandarin gobies. Eco-tours to
mountains, caves and local markets round out a mind
boggling array of available activities. Packages include
first-class accommodations and service, sumptuous
meals and up to four day boat dives daily. Transfers
from Manila are included.
• Top quality Indo-Pacific diving
• Dumaguete’s dedicated dive resort pioneer
• Beautiful eco-resort and activities
• PADI 5-Star Career Development Center dedicated dive facility
• European and American ownership and management
Bahura Resort & Spa
Atlantis Resort Puerto Galera
94
Favorite Dive Sites
• Tubbataha Atolls, Sulu Sea
• Apo Reef, Sulu Sea
• Verde Island, Puerto Galera
• Apo Island, Negros
Atlantis Resort Dumaguete
Philippines Live-Aboard
This fabulous vessel includes fully
air-conditioned interiors, 12 double
cabins with ensuite bathroom,
seven double cabins with shared
bathroom, four rinse showers on
deck, entertainment center, salon,
library, large bar area, and 15 crew
members at your service.
Dumaguete
Located in the town of Dauin, this
tropical garden resort has eight
luxurious villas and 32 deluxe
rooms. The house reef offers a
window into the underwater world
of corals and vibrant fish, while the
sites at nearby Apo Island feature
some truly world-class diving.
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . . . . .77°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90’
Puerto Galera
Visit one of the last undiscovered dive destinations with a
biodiversity greater than the Caribbean and Great Barrier
Reef combined. Forty world-class dives are located within
10 minutes of this beachfront resort. Located on over six
miles of marine reserves featuring pristine coral reefs,
beautiful walls and some of the best muck dives in the
Philippines—this is a macro photographer’s paradise. An
incredible party atmosphere exists for those who have the
energy after diving. Packages include first-class
accommodations, exceptional service, sumptuous meals,
and up to four boat dives per day. Private transfers are
provided from Manila.
• Incredible Indo-Pacific diving
• One of the Philippine’s premier dedicated dive resorts
• Surrounded by tropical rain forests
• PADI 5-Star Career Development Center with advanced technical facilities
• European and American ownership and management
south africa
thailand
© TIM ROCK
Best Times to Visit
• Great white cage diving
runs from April to
September
• Ragged-tooth sharks at
Aiwal Shoal from August
to November
• Bull and tiger sharks swim
at Aiwal Shoal from
November to August
• Scalloped hammerheads at
Protea Bank and Aliwal
Shoal during October and
November
• Sardine Runs happen from
late May to early July
The allure of the African continent has drawn wildlife enthusiasts for centuries but it is the
opportunity to encounter an “A” list of big animals, both above and below the water that attract
divers to South Africa. From cage diving with great whites off Gansbaai to diving with ragged
tooth and bull sharks off Durban, there’s a wide variety of experiences for the adventurous diver.
Witness the spectacular breaching great whites off Seal Island in False Bay where these creatures
display amazing feats of predatory behavior by launching themselves completely out of the water
in pursuit of Cape fur seals. Experience the Sardine Run, an amazing event of nature during which
divers attempt to intercept the migration of millions of sardines and witness the array of predators
pursuing this massive food source including sharks, dolphins, whales, seals, seabirds and more.
Combined with a land safari to one of Africa’s incredible preserves, this destinations offers all of
the makings of a dream expedition.
Dive Primer
Water Temp . . . . . . . . . . .80°
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . .80-100’
Best Time . . . . . .Nov to May
Favorite Dive Sites
• Similan Islands
• Richelieu Rock whale sharks
• Western Rocky
Topside Attractions
• Trek in the Golden Triangle
• Visit the art-filled home of
silk mogul Jim Thompson
• Get a Thai massage
There’s More...
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
Dive Primer
Water Temp (Durban) . . . .70°
Water Temp (False Bay) . .65°
Visibility (Durban) . . . . . . .75’
Visibility (False Bay) . . . . .30’
Best Time . . . . . . . . . . .Varies
The Mermaid I and Mermaid II live-aboards are double
engine steel motor yachts providing very comfortable
accommodations for 15 divers. Most cabins on
Mermaid II have ensuite bathrooms and many have
large panoramic sea view windows. Both yachts have
large dive decks with plenty of storage, wide stern dive
platforms with two exit ladders and freshwater showers,
camera tables and loads of rinse tanks. Both Thai and
Western cuisine is served. The saloons are spacious
with entertainment centers including TV/DVD, music
center, library and a full selection of marine life books.
There are two outside decks, one with shade and
another for sun worshippers. Nitrox is always available.
Favorite Dive Sites
• Aliwal Shoal
• Protea Banks
• Dyer Island (cage diving)
• False Bay
Topside Attractions
• Visit Kruger National Park
or a private game reserve
• Drive/hike the Garden Route
• Stellenbosch Wine Tours
• Climb Table Mountain
• Sail in Table Bay
There’s More...
• Well-appointed, IMO-certified, luxury-class live-aboards for a maximum of 15 guests
• Operating in Thailand from October through May and Indonesia from June to September
• Extra days for extra awesome diving—eight-day/nine-night Komodo cruises in 2008
• Myanmar-Mergui Archipelago itinerary update now includes the far north
• New destination—Andaman Islands—available from February 2009
Ocean Rover
Mind-blowing experiences are the focus of these South
African expeditions—everything from shark diving to cycle
safaris with elephants, giraffes and lions. The Two Oceans
Extreme expedition includes both Atlantic and Indian
Ocean diving and a wide variety of topside adventures
enroute. Cage dive with great whites in Gansbaai and
witness the breaching behavior off of Seal Island. Dive with
seal colonies in Capetown and ragged-tooth, tiger shark
and bull sharks at Aliwal Shoal. For the brave of heart, the
Sardine Run offers what National Geographic’s chief
underwater photographer, David Doubilet, called “the
most exciting dive in the world.” For more on this high
adrenaline expedition, see our Ultimate Adventure section.
© TIM ROCK
• World-class shark encounters based on seasonal availability
• Guided and escorted by SEAL Team experts throughout expedition
• 4-5 star accommodations included throughout itinerary
• Unique topside adventures supplement world-class diving
• Add on a big-game cycle safari in Botswana
96
Experience excellent service, true hospitality and
mouthwatering cuisine aboard one of the only IMO safety
certified live-aboards in the world. All cabins are airconditioned with ensuite bathrooms. Easy diving from the
“whale deck” and a huge upper deck for relaxing. Thailand
itineraries to the Andaman Sea and Myanmar are offered
through May 2008. Visit renowned sites including Similan
and Surin Islands, the Mergui Archipelago and Burma
Banks. Most of the crew has been with the Ocean Rover
for 10 years and provides an exceptional level of service.
Starting in June 2008, Ocean Rover will be operating out
of North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Future itineraries to Raja
Ampat will also be available soon.
• True luxury live-aboard—spacious, stable and safe
• Superb service with 12 crew members for just 16 divers
• Expert critter-spotting dive crew
• Great photographer amenities and entertainment center
• Guest computer with photo and video editing software
BONUS
10% discount
for returning
passengers
or back-toback cruises
© TIM ROCK
S.E.A.L. Expeditions
Venture off of southern
Thailand’s peninsula to the
famous Andaman Sea. Best
accessed by live-aboard, the
Similan Islands and Burma
Banks offer world-class
diving in protected waters
where colorful reefs and
dramatic underwater scenes
harbor a plethora of marine
life including rare and exotic
marine life. Ghost pipefish,
ribbon eels and nudibranchs
are some of the smaller
species found throughout
the area. Whales sharks
have been seen at Richelieu
Rock while leopard sharks
can be found at Ko Tachai.
Mermaid I & II
97
ultimate adventures
© DOUG PERRINE
Here are some of the world's most exciting diving expeditions that will
bring you up close and personal with some of nature's most impressive
experiences. From the Yucatan coast to the Cape in South Africa, from
the Artic to the Antarctic, these trips are sure to get your heart pumping
and attention peaked. While some demand an advanced level of diving,
others require no diving experience at all...just a love of nature and the
desire for adventure. If you are looking for the ultimate in adventure dive
travel...you just found it.
© ETHAN GORDON
Adrenaline Junkies Only!
Location:
Departures:
Details:
Live-aboards depart out of San Diego, California or Ensenada,
Mexico for overnight trip to Guadalupe Island
August through November
Four to seven nights including daily cage diving with great white
sharks, air-conditioned cabin with private bath, all meals and
beverages (including beer and wine).
© BARBARA LOUW
Meet the ultimate predator, the great white shark, in one of the world’s most
pristine natural environments from the safe and comfortable confines of liveaboard vessels equipped with cages and cutting edge technology for maximum
comfort and safety.
© ETHAN GORDON
Great White Expeditions
© ETHAN GORDON
Departures:
Details:
98
Mexico, Antarctica, Argentina, High Arctic, Cocos Island,
Niue, Norway
Year-round
Each expedition is customized and caters predominantly to a
select and limited number of privileged participants who are
provided with exclusive access to some of the world’s most
amazing encounters.
© AMOS NACHOUM
© AMOS NACHOUM
Location:
© AMOS NACHOUM
Join one of the world’s top nature photographers, Amos Nachoum, on
expeditions specifically designed to help you capture images that rival their
own through personal mentoring and experiential encounters in exotic locales
worldwide. Whether it’s diving with sailfish in Mexico, hammerheads in Cocos,
humpback whales in the South Pacific, orcas in Norway or leopard seals in
Antarctica; these are “Trips of a Lifetime” that take you where few others
venture—far from the realm of tourists and into the world of the explorer.
© AMOS NACHOUM
Photography Expeditions
© AMOS NACHOUM
Transkei (North Eastern Cape), South Africa
June and July
Ten nights includes transfers from Durban, accommodations,
meals, all diving, ultralight flight, land tours and more.
© ETHAN GORDON
Location:
Departures:
Details:
© DOUG PERRINE
Often referred to as “The Greatest Shoal on Earth” (shoal of sardines, that is).
Witness this event of nature off the east coast of South Africa as marine
predators of all kinds pursue this migrating feast of sardines during the
months of June and July each year. For the brave of heart, the Sardine Run
expedition offers what National Geographic's chief underwater photographer,
David Doubilet, has called “the most exciting dive in the world.” Trips to
experience this natural phenomenon attempt to intercept the intense feeding
frenzy by thousands of predators on massive shoals of migrating sardines.
© AMOS NACHOUM
Sardine Run
99
eco adventures
And remember, charity starts at home, so we urge all fellow citizens of our blue
planet to look into your own daily lives and see what else you can do to further
protect our seas. Simple things such as water conservation, recycling, and not
buying over-fished species can make a difference in whether future
generations of divers will be able to share the experiences we are so privileged
to witness today.
100
© BELIZE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
© COSTA RICA DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
The resorts, dive operators, and live-aboard vessels in this guide practice ecofriendly methods of operation and many are directly involved in efforts that
constantly monitor and contribute to the well-being of their diving
environments. We urge all divers to contribute to these efforts by pitching in
whenever possible and supporting both the environmental initiatives being
practiced by our partners around the world and by contributing generously—
as we do—to those environmental organizations who provide research and
funding to initiate protective policies and practices worldwide.
After over 20 years of connecting divers with the wonders of the underwater
world, Caradonna Dive Adventures’ commitment to the preservation of the
marine environment is stronger than ever. As divers, we share a passion for
our sport with everyone that travels under our care and recommendation.
The fragile eco-system in which we dive needs our diligent protection, so we
are constantly monitoring our partners’ practices and procedures to ensure
that their commitment to the marine environment is also evident and
executed on a continuous basis.
Our Committment to the Environment
You can embellish your next dive adventure with an
eco-based topside day trip, or you can book an entire
vacation of eco adventures. Either way, you can rest
assured knowing that you’re getting an excellent
value and all of the quality you’ve come to expect
from Caradonna.
While Caradonna has decades of experience in the dive
travel industry, we have recently expanded our excellent
customer service and top-quality travel arrangements
to a new product line—worldwide eco adventures.
Take a thilling zipline ride through the rainforests of
Costa Rica. Hike to the unique boiling lakes of the
nature island of Dominica. Explore the ancient ruins in
Honduras. Surf the world-class breaks in Fiji.
Horseback ride to remote jungle regions in Belize.
Experience the ecological wonders of exotic animals in
their natural, wild habitat—from howling monkeys of the
Amazon to awe-inspiring big cats in the lushest parts
of the American continent.
© HONDURAS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
There’s more to explore...
101
© ETHAN GORDON
© ETHAN GORDON
terms & conditions
THIS DOCUMENT CREATES A CONTRACTUAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CARADONNA
DIVE ADVENTURES, INC., AND YOU,THE “CUSTOMER.” AFTER READING THIS ENTIRE CUSTOMER AGREEMENT (THE “AGREEMENT”), IN ORDER FOR YOUR DIVE TRAVEL PACKAGE
(“VACATION PACKAGE” OR “TRIP”) RESERVATION TO BE COMPLETED, YOU MUST INDICATE YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOUND IN THIS AGREEMENT
EITHER BY ACCEPTING THEM ONLINE OR BY SIGNING AND RETURNING YOUR CREDIT
CARD AUTHORIZATION FORM.
PARTIES TO THIS AGREEMENT: Caradonna Dive Adventures, Inc., (herein referred to as “CDA,
”we,” “our,” or “us”) has arranged the Dive Travel Package described within this brochure. The
traveler (herein referred to as “Customer,”“I,”“you,” or “your”) who has reserved a Dive Travel
Package as described in this brochure/flier/website/invoice/ confirmation, and who intends to
participate in the Dive Travel Package so reserved, and by such participation and payment as
provided for in this Customer Agreement (“Customer Agreement” or “Agreement”) hereby agrees
to be bound by and subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
BOOKING PROCEDURES: To make a booking you must send us either a signed, completed
Credit Card Authorization Form, or acknowledge acceptance of the Customer Agreement in the
manner provided for on our website, and a deposit of US $200.00 per person or more as required by supplier. We will then invoice you for the remainder of the cost, which you must pay
no later than 60 days before departure. If you book less than 60 days before departure, full payment must be made on booking by certified check or credit card. The booking is not accepted
and no contract exists until the date shown on the confirmation issued by CDA. Bookings made
over the telephone, by email, or by credit card more than 60 days before departure will not be
deemed accepted until we have received either a signed Credit Card Authorization Form or Customer Agreement in our office, or in the case of an internet booking, you have acknowledged
your acceptance of the Customer Agreement, in the manner provided for on our website. If you
do not pay the balance of your Dive Travel Package cost within 60 days of departure, your booking will be terminated and you will lose your deposit. A fee of US $25.00 will be added to the
Dive Travel Package price for the second and subsequent revisions. In addition, a fee of US
$25.00 per person will be charged should a new set of travel documents be required because
of any revision. Bookings made within 30 days or less prior to departure will be subject to a US
$25.00 non-refundable fee to cover administration costs and express delivery of documents. We
reserve the right to refuse a reservation made by: (i) a person under the age of eighteen (18) without the written consent of a parent or legal guardian first having been obtained, and (ii) a person
not certified by an internationally recognized SCUBA diving certification association, acceptable
to us. No charge will be made for the first revision to any booking.
CANCELLATION PROCEDURES: Notification of cancellation must be made to CDA in writing.
If you cancel your package booking, the following cancellation charges will be made: (i) Written
notification of cancellation received at our offices between 60 and 45 days before departure:
$100.00 per person; (ii) Written notification of cancellation received at our offices between 45 and
30 days before departure: $200.00 per person; (iii) Written notification of cancellation received
at our offices less than 30 days before departure (or failure to join the Trip): 100% of the package
cost; (iv) These fees are in addition to any vendor fee that may be assessed, (up to 100%).
CDA STRONGLY ADVISES YOU TO PURCHASE TRAVEL/BAGGAGE AND TRAVEL CANCELLATION INSURANCE.
ACCURACY OF INFORMATION: The information contained in our brochure, pricing documentation, and on our website, is correct to the best of our belief, but we accept no liability for any
inaccuracies contained therein. Any information or advice provided by us on matters such as per-
102
mits, visas, vaccinations, climate, clothing, baggage, special equipment, etc. is given in good
faith but without responsibility on our part, and you accept responsibility for obtaining any necessary visas and travel documents required for the Dive Travel Package.
MISCELLANEOUS: Any flights forming part of the Dive Travel Package arrangements are subject
to the conditions of the carrying airline, which in most cases limit the airline’s liability to the passenger in accordance with international law and conventions. Any likeness or image of you secured or taken during your participation in a Trip may be used by us without charge in all media
(whether now existing or in the future invented) for promotional or marketing purposes, including,
without limitations, promotional materials of any kind, such as brochures, slides, video shows
and the internet. By accepting the Customer Agreement, you agree that, if necessary, we may
pass your contact details and numbers to any third party connected with the operation of the specific Dive Travel Package which you have booked. This information will not be used for any other
purpose by the third party, nor will it be passed to any other parties. Please note that international
airlines are required by applicable laws to give border control agencies access to passenger data.
Accordingly, any information we hold about you, and your travel arrangements, may be disclosed
to the customs and immigration authorities of any country in your itinerary, or to which you may
be diverted. This Customer Agreement may only be waived or amended by written mutual consent. When you accept this Customer Agreement, you agree with all these conditions.
DOCUMENTATION: You must carry valid proof of citizenship and proper identification (current
Passport or certified copy of Birth Certificate and Driver’s License). If you are traveling with children, some countries require specific travel permissions from both birth parents. Since proof
varies with each country, contact our office about your specific destination. All persons on Dive
Travel Packages must have a current, valid scuba certification card issued by an internationally
recognized SCUBA diving certification association acceptable to CDA. Without proper identification, a passport and necessary visas, you will not be permitted to depart. It is your responsibility to verify your necessary travel documents.
RISKS AND WARNINGS: For information regarding possible dangers at international destinations,contact the Travel Advisory Section of the US State Department, (202) 647-5225,
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html. For medical information, contact the
Center for Disease Control, (404)332-4559, HYPERLINK "http://www.cdc.gov/travel"
www.cdc.gov/travel.
ARBITRATION: You agree that any dispute concerning, relating or referring to this Agreement,
the brochure/flier/website/invoice or any other literature concerning your Trip, the Trip itself or any
claim for damages due to injury or death which occurs during, or in connection with, the Trip shall
be resolved exclusively by binding arbitration according to the then existing rules of the American
Arbitration Association in an arbitration conducted in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. Such proceedings
will be governed by substantive Delaware law. The dispute will be resolved by a single arbitrator,
who must be a lawyer admitted to practice in the courts of at least one state in the United States,
and have a minimum of fifteen years of experience in civil litigation. The arbitrator so described
will be selected by the American Arbitration Association. Each party to the dispute shall have the
right, on a single occasion, to veto the designation of an arbitrator so selected. There will be judicial review of the arbitrator’s decision if either side can show plain error in the application of law,
or be able to show an abuse of discretion with respect to factual findings. The parties waive the
right to rely on any state law or statute which creates an exception to enforcement of the requirement that disputes be resolved pursuant to arbitration in the manner set forth herein.
WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL: IN CONNECTION WITH ANY ACTION OR LEGAL PROCEEDING
ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT, THE PARTIES HEREBY SPECIFICALLY AND KNOW-
INGLY WAIVE ANY RIGHTS THAT EITHER PARTY MIGHT HAVE TO DEMAND A JURY TRIAL.
EXCLUSIVE GOVERNING LAW AND EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION: THIS AGREEMENT AND
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RIGHT ARISING OUT OF, THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE BROUGHT EXCLUSIVELY IN THE
COURTS OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA, OR, IF IT HAS OR CAN ACQUIRE JURISDICTION, IN
THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF DELAWARE, AND ALL OF
THE PARTIES HERETO HEREBY CONSENT TO THE EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OF SUCH
COURTS AND OF THE APPROPRIATE APPELLATE COURTS IN ANY SUCH ACTION OR
LEGAL PROCEEDING AND WAIVE ANY OBJECTION TO VENUE OR JURISDICTION IN CONNECTION THEREWITH.
SEVERABILITY: The invalidity or unenforceability of any part of this Agreement, or the invalidity
of its application to a specific situation or circumstance, shall not affect the validity of the remainder of this Agreement, or its application to other situations or circumstances. Any provision of
this Agreement held invalid or unenforceable only in part or degree will remain in full force and
effect to the extent not held invalid or unenforceable.
WAIVER: Any failure by either party at any time, or from time to time, to enforce or to require the
strict keeping and performance of any of the terms or conditions of this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of any such terms or conditions and shall not affect or impair such terms and
conditions in any way or the right of such party at any time to avail itself of such remedies as it
has for the breach or breaches of such terms and conditions.
EXCLUSIVITY: Except as otherwise expressly provided to the contrary, the rights herein granted
and this Agreement are for the benefit of the parties hereto. The terms and conditions of this
Agreement shall be exclusive of any advertising, marketing or other sales literature or activities
of CDA and nothing contained in any of such materials shall be construed to create any rights
as a result of or in connection with this Agreement.
RESPONSIBILITY: YOU UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT ALL TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS INCLUDED IN THIS TRIP ARE MADE ON YOUR BEHALF UPON THE EXPRESS CONDITION THAT
NEITHER CDA NOR ITS OWNER, DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES AGENTS, CONTRACTORS OR SUBCONTRACTORS SHALL BE LIABLE OR RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY NEGLIGENT
OR WILLFUL ACT OR FAILURE TO ACT OF ANY THIRD PARTY, SUCH AS OPERATORS OF
AIRCRAFT, TRAINS, MOTORCOACHES, PRIVATE CARS, CRUISE VESSELS, BOATS, SHIPS
OR ANY OTHER CONVEYANCE, HOTELS, SIGHTSEEING EXCURSIONS, LOCAL GROUND
HANDLING, ETC. WHICH ARE TO OR DO SUPPLY ANY GOODS OR SERVICES FOR YOUR
TRIP. YOU FURTHER UNDERSTAND THAT CDA NEITHER OWNS NOR OPERATES SUCH
THIRD PARTY SUPPLIERS AND ACCORDINGLY AGREE TO SEEK REMEDIES DIRECTLY AND
ONLY AGAINST THOSE SUPPLIERS AND NOT HOLD CDA RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR ACTS
OR OMISSIONS. WITHOUT LIMITATION, CDA IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY NEGLIGENT
OR WILLFUL ACTS OF OTHERS OR FOR ACTS OF GOD OR FORCE MAJEURE, WEATHER
EMERGENCIES, BREAKDOWN, OR FAILURE OF DIVING OR MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT, GOVERNMENT ACTIONS, INCLEMENT WEATHER, SICKNESS, ATTACKS BY ANIMALS, AVAILABILITY OF MEDICAL CARE OR THE ADEQUACY OF THE SAME, CRIMINAL ACTIVITY OF ANY
KIND, TERRORISM, WAR, CIVIL DISTURBANCE, SANITARY CONDITIONS, QUALITY OR SANITATION OF FOOD, QUARANTINE, CUSTOMS REGULATIONS, EPIDEMICS, STRIKES, HOTEL
OVERBOOKING, SAFETY AND/OR SECURITY STANDARDS AT HOTELS OR OTHER ACCOM-
MODATIONS, ANY PROBLEMS OR INJURIES WHATSOEVER ARISING FROM SWIMMING OR
SCUBA DIVING OR FOR ANY OTHER REASON BEYOND THE CONTROL OF CDA, AND YOU
UNDERSTAND, AGREE WITH, AND AGREE TO BE LEGALLY BOUND BY THE TERMS OF THE
RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY SET FORTH HEREIN.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RISK: I understand and acknowledge that my travel in connection
with and participation in the Dive Travel Package arranged at my request by CDA may involve
risk and potential exposure to injury and possibly death. I specifically acknowledge and recognize
the potential for injury and death which can result from swimming or SCUBA diving, including
the malfunction of dive equipment, the natural environment, animal or sea life, currents and other
changing conditions, decompression sickness, embolism or other hyperbaric injuries. I realize
and acknowledge that diving with compressed air, nitrox, tri-mix, or other gases involves certain
risks and requires specific training. I certify that I have been properly trained for the breathing mixture(s) I will use and understand the risks involved. I also realize and acknowledge that risk and
dangers may be caused by the negligence of the owner, directors, employees, contractors,
subcontractors, officers or agents of CDA or the negligence or participation of other participants,
contractors and/or subcontractors to CDA. I also recognize and acknowledge that risk and dangers may arise from foreseeable and unforeseeable causes, including weather and other acts
of nature. I fully understand and acknowledge that the aforementioned risks, dangers and hazards are a potential in connection with recreational activities which may take place during my Trip.
EXPRESS ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND RESPONSIBILITY: In recognition of the inherent risk of the
travels and related activities in which I am intending to engage, I confirm that I am physically and
mentally capable of participating in the activity, and that I alone am responsible for my own activities
while engaged in SCUBA diving. I am willingly and knowingly electing to participate in this Dive
Travel Package in spite of the potential risk of danger, and I willingly and voluntarily assume full responsibility for any injury, loss or damage suffered by me or caused by me, whether caused in
whole or in part by the negligence of the owner, directors, agents, officers, employees, contractors
or subcontractors of CDA.
RELEASE OF LIABILITY: In consideration of the services and arrangements provided by CDA, I,
for myself and for my heirs, personal representatives or assigns, do hereby release, waive, discharge, hold harmless and agree to indemnify CDA, and its owner, officers, directors, agents, contractors, subcontractors and employees from any and all claims, actions, or losses for bodily
injury, property damage, wrongful death, loss of services, lost profits, consequential, exemplary,
indirect or punitive damages or otherwise, which may arise out of, or occur during my travel in
connection with the scheduled Dive Travel Package and any activities conducted in conjunction
therewith. I SPECIFICALLY UNDERSTAND THAT I AM RELEASING, DISCHARGING AND WAIVING ANY CLAIMS OR ACTIONS THAT I MAY HAVE PRESENTLY OR IN THE FUTURE FOR THE
NEGLIGENT ACTS OR CONDUCT OF THE OWNER, DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES,
AGENTS, CONTRACTORS OR SUBCONTRACTORS OF CDA. EXPRESS WAIVER OF ANY
RIGHT TO SEEK CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES: Regardless of the
situation or circumstances giving rise to a claim, I waive any right to seek consequential, punitive
or exemplary damages against CDA, its owner, officers, directors, agents, contractors, subcontractors and employees, for any reason whatsoever.
CARADONNA DIVE ADVENTURES
2101 West State Road 434, Suite 221, Longwood, FL 32779
Phone 407-774-9000 • Fax 407-682-6000
USA/Can: 800-328-2288
E-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.caradonna.com
FST-36173 • CST-2063948-40
103
CR
© SE
S
ISION
EA V
ET S
© ISLAND EXPOSURE
© TIM ROCK
© TIM ROCK

Caradonna Dive Travel Guide 2008

Transcription

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