Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 - The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA - Dive Worldwide

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Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 - The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA - Dive Worldwide
Winter/Spring | 2019/2020

The Sardine Run
SOUTH AFRICA
What’s Bubbling
ALL NEW
Liveaboard Adventures
INDONESIA
Remarkable Liveaboards
UNIQUE JOURNEYS
Insider Guide
THE CORAL TRIANGLE
Dive Together
SMALL GROUP TRIPS
Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 - The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA - Dive Worldwide
The Sardine Run
Fancy your chances?
              Editor of SCUBA magazine, Simon Rogerson, travelled with
              us on an extraordinary trip to South Africa this summer with
              a quest to witness the famous annual ‘Sardine Run’.

I
  t was my third day out on the             So there I was, feeling sweaty in my      happen. I finned away from the wash of
  inflatable. We’d been covering up to      7mm wetsuit … and then everything         the boat’s engines and looked down at
  50 miles a day, scouring South Africa’s   changed. John, the driver, received a     shafts of sunlight cutting through the
wild coast for the elusive baitballs that   tip-off and all of a sudden we were on    water. A dark shape broke the surface,
attract a parade of predators in mid-       the move. Whatever had been spotted       maybe 15 metres away. Where before I
July. There was no shortage of action       was a) out of the ordinary and b) not     was sunburned and sluggish, I was now
– bottlenose and common dolphins,           likely to hang around. The unmistakable   coursing with adrenaline and completely
several humpbacks and one southern          sight of black and white shapes           in the moment.
right whale – but the famous schools        breaking the surface meant only one
were proving hard to pin down. There        thing – a pod of orcas. The skipper       I lifted the camera to my eyes and
had been a few tantalising moments          sized up their behaviour and said:        somehow the autofocus managed to
when we got close – on day one, a           ‘We’re going to motor ahead of them       lock on to this astonishing, perfect
Bryde’s whale burst though the swell        and drop you in the water.’ It was too    animal as she swam towards me. There
and devoured a school in a single gulp.     good an opportunity to pass up. Behind    was no fear. I remember thinking: ‘Oh!
The baitball was, briefly, an awesome       my mask I felt unnaturally calm, almost   She’s just a big dolphin’, as the orca
thing to see.                               as if I was somewhere else watching it    approached and dived, looking up at me

2                           Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure
Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 - The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA - Dive Worldwide
Welcome
                                                                                         It has been a busy few months for us here
                                                                                         at Dive Worldwide with the team out and
                                                                                         about across the world finding the finest dive
                                                                                         locations for your next diving adventure!
                                                                                         In this issue, Lewis Copper checks out
                                                                                         Grenada’s underwater highlights and
                                                                                         Cath Bates reports on the best resorts for
                                                                                         accessible diving. Manager, Phil North,
                                                                                         describes diving on Papua New Guinea’s
                                                                                         ‘jaw-dropping’ reefs, and Charlie Munns and
                                                                                         Mat Howell share their incredible liveaboard
                                                                                         experiences in Indonesia.
                                                                                         Editor of SCUBA magazine, Simon Rogerson,
                                                                                         travelled with us to experience South Africa’s
                                                                                         renowned Sardine Run (see left) and we
                                                                                         are excited to introduce new resorts, trips
                                                                                         and liveaboards in Mozambique, Egypt,
                                                                                         the Philippines, Raja Ampat and Bali. Due
                                                                                         to popular demand we have expanded
                                                                                         our collection of small group trips, and are
                                                                                         delighted to launch new trips with expert
                                                                                         photographers Saeed Rashid to Indonesia
                                                                                         and Danny Copeland to St Helena. If you’re
                                                                                         looking for something special, hop onboard
                                                                                         one of our remarkable liveaboard journeys.
                                                                                         We hope that you like our bumper issue and
                                                                                         find plenty to inspire your next diving holiday!

                                                                                         Dive Worldwide Team
                                                                                         Contents
                                                                                         The Sardine Run                               2-3
                                                                                         What’s Bubbling – All New                     4-5
                                                                                         The Best of Raja Ampat & Komodo               6-7
                                                                                         Grenada & Carriacou                                8
                                                                                         Papua New Guinea                                   9
                                                                                         Accessible Holidays & Resorts              10-11
                                                                                         Remarkable Liveaboard Journeys             12-13
                                                                                         Seasonal Underwater Escapes                14-17
                                                                                         The Coral Triangle                         18-19
                                                                                         Small Group Dive Trips                           20
                                                                                         St Helena                                        21
                                               Orca and other images by Simon Rogerson
                                                                                         Diving into Conservation                   22-23
as I froze mid-water. For this fleeting    Sardine Run Adventure
encounter with the ocean’s alpha
                                           Each year, around June, one of the
                                                                                         Our Diving Holidays
predator, I will always be grateful.       most amazing spectacles in the animal         We offer exceptional tailor-made and small
                                           kingdom takes place off the KwaZulu           group liveaboard and resort-based dive
I had five days on the Sardine Run and     Natal coastline. Witness the ‘Greatest
                                                                                         holidays in over 190 destinations worldwide.
saw truly amazing things, including        Shoal on Earth’ as millions of sardines
                                           migrate along South Africa’s eastern          Our holidays cater for beginners and
sharks and dolphins feeding on an                                                        experienced divers, specific interests such
                                           coastline. Dive and snorkel with
anchovy shoal. Friends on different        thousands of dolphins, seals, sharks,         as muck, wreck, technical, underwater
boats got in the water with right whales   whales, and even birds.                       photography or particular marine life such
and humpbacks. You never know what         11 days from £2,695                           as sharks and rays. With almost 20 years’
you’re going to see, and you have to be    Jun-Jul                                       experience, our friendly Dive team includes
prepared for long periods of quiet,                                                      highly experienced divers who keep up-to-
punctuated by moments of frenzied                                                        date with new and exciting places to dive, and
action. But when the Sardine Run           For full details about our dive               take pleasure in hand picking the best diving
delivers, be ready to reap the rewards.    holidays in South Africa contact our          and snorkelling experiences for you!
                                           expert team or visit our website.
                                                                                         Cover: Hawksbill turtle

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Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 - The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA - Dive Worldwide
What’s Bubbling
Please find a selection of our new destinations, resorts and liveaboards below
and on our website. To keep up-to-date, sign up to ‘What’s Bubbling’, our regular
e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Wadi Lahmy Azur Resort, Egypt                                                 Breakers Diving & Surfing Lodge, Egypt
We are delighted to introduce trips   Enjoy a range of facilities including   Created specifically for scuba        from around the world. The onsite
to Egypt in the Dive Worldwide        a freshwater outdoor pool and           divers and kite surfers, Breakers     dive centre adheres to the highest
portfolio, including liveaboards      beach restaurant. The onsite            Diving & Surfing Lodge in             standards, and caters for beginner
(see website for details). Those      dive centre provides access to          Soma Bay is a place where             and experienced divers alike.
looking to get away from it all       the house reef, along with diving       you can easily disconnect from        The exceptional house reef is a
without travelling to the ends of     opportunities to the seldom-            the humdrum of daily life, and        draw for many. More experienced
the Earth may find their oasis        visited Fury Shoal reefs. Blessed       reconnect with the sea. A retreat     divers will be enthralled by the
at the all inclusive Wadi Lahmy       with around 35 dive sites, the          for the more discerning Red Sea       stunning corals and drop-offs of
Azur Resort. Located in the far       region supports some of the most        diver, the resort’s exceptional       Panorama Reef, one of the largest
south of the Egyptian Red Sea         exceptional corals in the Red Sea,      scuba diving opportunities are        single reefs in Safaga which gets
this spacious, 128-room resort        blossoming into wonderful coral         complemented by a touch of            its name from the superb views
promises understated luxury,          gardens and pinnacles teeming           luxury topside, with facilities on    possible from its plateaux and
unspoiled white sand beaches,         with marine life.                       offer including a spa, sauna, gym,    vertical walls.
and exceptional diving away from                                              yoga studio and a restaurant
the crowds.                           8 days from £1,245                      offering creative culinary delights   8 days from £1,195

Aiyanar Beach & Dive Resort, Philippines                                      Infiniti Liveaboard, Philippines
The Anilao coastline has long         dive centre with a well appointed       A popular liveaboard amongst          courses are available. The sought-
been a firm favourite amongst         camera room. The custom-                divers, the Infiniti has a new        after six-night Tubbataha itinerary
locals and weekend visitors from      designed outriggers comfortably         look and moved to solely              operates from March to June and
Manila; however, its rise as a        accommodate eight divers,               operate throughout the year in        is recommended for experienced
special macro marine life hotspot     cameras and two experienced             the Philippines. Comfortably          divers. The rest of the year is
is relatively new. Photographers      guides. Whilst underwater               accommodating 22 guests in its        spent exploring the Visayas region
take note. This boutique dive         highlights are centred on the           nine standard and two deluxe          and the six-night trips are suitable
resort offers panoramic ocean         prolific macro subjects, sharks,        cabins (the latter located on         for divers of all abilities plus their
views and a tranquil environment.     rays and schooling pelagics are         the upper deck), she features a       snorkelling friends and family. Life
The property features 24 stylish      often seen, especially on the           number of lounges where you can       onboard feels homely and the
rooms and suites with modern          deeper reefs. There are regular         relax and spend ‘down time’, a        diving experience is very special
amenities. Facilities include a       visits to Verde Island and Puerto       furnished sundeck, self-serve bar     indeed.
restaurant and bar with open-         Galera as well as the local sites.      and a dedicated camera room.
air dining options, a spa, infinity                                           Up to four dives a day are led        10 days from £3,575
pool with dive training area and a    10 days from £2,675                     by the expert guides, and PADI        (Tubbataha itinerary)

Holiday prices are based on two persons sharing, including flights from the UK, accommodation, transfers and diving, except
where specified. Prices correct at time of print (October 2019).

4                                Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure
Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 - The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA - Dive Worldwide
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Liquid Dive Adventures, Mozambique                                           MV Oceania, Papua New Guinea
Located towards the northern,          pool, yoga and plenty of other        Departing from Walindi Resort          and the occasional sighting of a
secluded end of Tofo beach this        activities in addition to diving.     on New Britain in Papua New            whale (including orca). In addition,
intimate, family-run dive resort       The marine biodiversity in this       Guinea, this 27-metre-long             ten-night exploratory trips to Milne
is within a short walk of local        region is incredible, yet the stars   catamaran operates seasonal            Bay are scheduled for 2020 and
amenities and a perfect setting for    of the show are manta rays            diving adventures in the Bismark       beyond. The boat accommodates
divers. The beachfront property        (alfredi and birostris) and whale     Sea and beyond. The eight-             16 divers in five twin bed and
features 11 individual bungalows       sharks, ever present in these         night ‘Signature’ and ‘Mid-Year’       three double bed en suite cabins,
set amongst tropical gardens,          plankton-rich waters. Expect          itineraries visit the seamounts        all with air-conditioning and an
each comfortably accommodating         incredible encounters and a lot       and lush coral gardens of Kimbe        ocean view. Guest areas include
two guests. Relax amongst,             more besides; several species of      Bay, colourful reefs and black         a large dive deck with camera
and chat with, like-minded             shark, rays and turtles as well as    sand bays of the Witu Islands          facilities and a furnished sundeck.
people around the resort or at         bottlenose dolphins are frequently    and the offshore Fathers Reefs.        Diving is either from the mother
the al fresco Happi restaurant         seen.                                 Expect volcanic reefscapes,            ship or tender.
which serves vegetarian cuisine.                                             resident schools of pelagics,
Guests can enjoy a dip in the          10 days from £2,495                   sharks, rays, turtles, dolphins        14 days from £5,395

Dive into Raja Ampat, Indonesia                                              Dive & Culture in Bali
Waiwo Resort accommodates 20           sister property in Lembeh. The        Join like-minded explorers             see topside including visits to
guests in a variety of room types      day begins with a two-tank dive,      in travelling to the stunning          ornate Hindu temples, waterfall
including garden terrace, sea view     followed by a third after lunch.      Indonesian island of Bali for          walks, a trip to the local market
and waterfront villas. All are amply   There are upwards of 30 local         a fantastic diving and cultural        with a traditional cooking class
furnished and feature twin beds or     dive sites to visit within just 60    adventure. This small group trip       and time in the cultural hub of
a double, air-conditioning and en      minutes’ speed boat journey.          includes time in traditionally built   Bali. But don’t worry! There’s
suite bathroom. Located on the         Long distance and specialist          properties on the north coast of       also time to relax – a half hour
southern coast of Waisai island,       sites are available but subject to    the island at Pondok Sari, as well     spa treatment is included at each
the resort is a two-hour fast          minimum numbers. PADI courses         as in the north-east at Alam Anda.     resort. This is a fantastic trip idea
ferry transfer from Sorong. Other      are also possible. Located at         Enjoy six dives from each resort,      for those seeking an authentic
activities, including sightseeing      the heart of the Coral Triangle,      including sites at Menjangan           Indonesian experience in search
and trekking, are available. The       underwater highlights are as          Island and the Liberty wreck.          of an activity-packed holiday with
onsite dive centre, Dive into Raja     diverse as they are numerous.         Expect colourful reefs, plenty of      a difference.
Ampat, is open for business and                                              fish and numerous critters. In
continually developing to mirror its   11 days from £3,375                   addition, there is a great deal to     16 days from £2,675

                   sales@diveworldwide.com                     |   01962 302087          |   www.diveworldwide.com                                          5
Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 - The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA - Dive Worldwide
Indonesian Liveaboards
Incredible year-round adventures
Senior Travel Consultants Charlie Munns and Mat Howell visited Komodo National
Park and Raja Ampat by liveaboard and would return in a heartbeat.

L
      ocated in the heart of the renowned Coral Triangle,                  done by liveaboard. Such is the region’s popularity, many
      and boasting the highest marine diversity on the                     of the boats spend time in each during the year, optimising
      planet, Indonesia is a diver’s dream destination, with               the diving experience. It’s also possible to hop onboard
 plenty to see all year round. From manta rays and seasonal                as they relocate, exploring areas that are seldom visited: a
 mola mola around Nusa Lembongan, muck diving in the                       truly memorable experience.
 Lembeh Strait, critters and breathtaking drop-offs in the
 Banda Islands, hammerheads and drift diving in the Alor                   Although we can’t recommend these two boats highly
 Archipelago, Indonesia is a must for any keen diver!                      enough, you are genuinely spoilt for choice in Indonesia
                                                                           (see opposite). If you’re looking for world-class diving and
 Both Raja Ampat and Komodo are high on any diver’s wish                   a liveaboard experience to match, Indonesia is hard to
 list and, often, exploring these incredible locations is best             beat.

    Charlie’s trip aboard the Mermaid II to Komodo                         Mat sailed on the Dewi Nusantara in Raja Ampat
                 Although new destinations or itineraries                                  While Indonesia harbours many diving gems,
                 are rare, a few options have recently                                     Raja Ampat is hard to beat for its diversity
                 gained notoriety for their quality, value and                             of marine life, stunning turquoise waters
                 accessibility. And Komodo is on this short-                               and jungle-clad island scenery. I jumped at
                 list, for sure. I jumped at the opportunity to                            the chance to hop on the Dewi Nusantara
 experience this for myself, from the luxury of the Mermaid                (during the so-called ‘off-season’) and found that not only
 ll. Both Mermaid fleet boats depart from Bali for Komodo,                 did the region live up to its world-class reputation, so did
 so it makes sense to combine these with a few nights                      the beautiful, luxurious schooner and its entire crew.
 relaxing in a resort before or after.
                                                                           The 11-night trip includes 36 dives and I’m certain that
 From the moment I stepped onboard, I felt comfortable and                 some of these will make it to your ‘most memorable
 welcome. The crew were exceptional and worked hard to                     dives of all time’ list. Encounters with enormous mantas
 deliver a five-star service both onboard and underwater.                  – oceanic and reef – were met with a smile, and the most
 The itinerary includes 20 dives, each a memorable                         special dive sites during our trip simply had to be Magic
 experience and with such a variety, no two days were the                  Mountain and Melissa’s Garden with so many huge schools
 same. We drifted along the pristine reefs of Moyo and                     of fish – a pure delight! We saw some incredible marine
 Sangeang, searched out critters on other sites and always                 life, from tiny crabs and pygmy seahorses to several sharks
 kept an eye on the blue for pelagic life. There is something              including the enigmatic wobbegong and the reef ‘walking’
 magical about diving with mantas, and the thing that                      endemic epaulette.
 always gets me is the silence. ‘Manta Alley’ did not
 disappoint.                                                               There’s more to Raja Ampat than marine life. With its
                                                                           unique topography, flora and fauna there are plenty of
 The itinerary includes time to visit a local village, plenty              off-the-beaten-track places to explore where you feel like
 of incredible sunsets, an impressive and ever-changing                    you’re the only people there. The rewards are incredible, no
 topography and the chance to see the Komodo dragon.                       matter when you choose to travel.

     Komodo Liveaboard                                                      Raja Ampat Liveaboard
     One of Indonesia’s most iconic and exciting diving areas, the          Join a liveaboard adventure in Raja Ampat, the most biodiverse
     vast Komodo National Park is best dived by liveaboard to fully         marine region on Earth! Choose from a variety of vessels and
     appreciate the area’s riches, which include critters, sharks, manta    itineraries to discover majestic islands with sharks, manta rays,
     rays, Napoleon wrasse and turtles.                                     turtles and enormous schools of fish.
     11 days from £2,895                                                    12-18 days from £4,495
     Apr-Nov                                                                Nov-Apr

6                                   Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure
Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 - The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA - Dive Worldwide
Visit our Blog to read the full versions of Charlie and
Mat’s adventures in Indonesia.

The luxurious Tambora          Accommodating ten                Visiting remote areas,         Emperor Divers feature
phinisi liveaboard is very     passengers in five cabins,       exploratory diving is very     the elegant MY Raja Laut
much a pioneer of diving       the Calico Jack is an            much the focus onboard         and the MY Harmoni, two
itineraries throughout the     intimate and fun boat to dive    the Maluku Explorer as         outstanding boats offering
Indonesian archipelago,        from. She visits the best dive   she exclusively cruises the    all you need for an incredible
and each year visits the old   spots throughout the year,       South Halmahera region         diving experience. Both
favourites as well as new      seeking exceptional diving       throughout the year. A must-   offer seasonal itineraries in
locations, most not yet on     experiences and topside          visit option for pioneering    diving hotspots throughout
the diver’s map.               adventure.                       divers.                        Indonesia.

          Call Charlie Munns or Mat Howell to discuss your next Indonesian liveaboard dive adventure.

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Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 - The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA - Dive Worldwide
Spice Islands of the Caribbean
Grenada & Carriacou
                The island of Grenada and its smaller sister island, Carriacou,
                have plenty to attract beginner and experienced divers alike.
                Travel Consultant Lewis Copper visited earlier this year …

W
            ell known amongst experienced       takes its name from the shoals of fusiliers   Tyrell Bay wreck, which is covered in soft
            divers for its wreck diving, the    that appear to rain down on the reef. As      corals. Shoals of fish circled around us, and
            Caribbean islands of Grenada        the sun sets, the evening entertainment       the swim-throughs inside the wreck are
and Carriacou have just as much to offer        comes in the form of the island’s street      great for new wreck divers. I also had the
beginner divers as well as being an ideal       food extravaganza at the renowned ‘Dodgy      chance to dive the famous Sculpture Park
destination for non-diving partners and         Dock’, with live music to accompany.          which has brilliant photo opportunities; I
friends throughout the year. Keen to                                                          even saw a frogfish on the one of them.
explore the wrecks and reefs, I set off on      An evening ferry transfer brought me to
a whirlwind trip to discover and dive these     the much smaller island of Carriacou, or      My week in paradise was topped with a
beautiful islands – an experience only made     the ‘land of reefs’ as it’s known locally.    visit to the Grenada Chocolate Company
better by the friendliness of the Grenadian     This laid-back island is a microcosm          and the Rivers Rum Distillery. I can’t wait to
people, the vibrant culture and the brilliant   of the Caribbean, a place to relax and        go back!
cuisine on offer.                               unwind, with panoramic ocean views
                                                and even better dive sites. Deefer Diving     For our full range of holidays to
A blast of heat as I stepped off the plane      runs a sound operation. Our first dive to     Grenada and all of the Caribbean, visit
indicated that I had arrived in the tropics     Two Sisters was a thrill – the reefs are      our website or contact our Dive team.
and a short drive took me to True Blue Bay      well intact and large schools of fish can
Boutique Resort, a popular and colourful        be seen all around, whilst barracuda and       Spice Island Discovery
resort in the far south of Grenada. I was       tarpon dart amongst the two outcroppings.      A relaxing twin-centre holiday to the vibrant
lucky enough to be hosted in an eco-            Another dive on Sharkies impressed, with       spice island of Grenada and the tiny island of
friendly Cocoa Pod room, where I would          seahorses, nudibranch, cleaner shrimp,         Carriacou where you’ll find wrecks, pristine
                                                                                               reefs with forests of soft corals, and plenty of
spend the next two days. Aquanauts              and beautiful soft and hard corals.
                                                                                               turtles and rays. This holiday is a great choice
Grenada took me to dive the Bianca C,                                                          no matter what your diving experience and is
one of the main reasons for visiting the        On my return to the picturesque island         also perfect for a non-diving companion.
island; the wreck is so large it needs more     of Grenada my focus was to experience          15 days from £2,875
than one dive to do it justice. Another site    some of the signature dive sites with Dive     Jan-Dec
for the log book is Purple Rain, which          Grenada. I began with the relatively new

8                              Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure
Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 - The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA - Dive Worldwide
Dazzling Reefs, Critters & Sharks
Papua New Guinea
                Dive Worldwide Manager, Phil North,
                describes his trip to PNG, diving on
                the best reefs he’s ever experienced in
                ‘jaw-dropping’ visibility!

A
         s we circled above Port Moresby,
         our flight captain came on the
         intercom to inform passengers
he would make a final attempt to land.
At the end of a long journey from the
UK, we had found magical ribbons of
low-lying mist between the hills and
mountains, obscuring our final approach.
After waiting for the early morning sun
to burn away the worst of the mist, our
skilled pilot made another approach and,
thankfully, got us safely to the ground.
Just getting to Papua New Guinea can be
an adventure.

I was staying at Tufi Dive Resort and, as
soon as I was able, I explored the house
reef – a muck dive with nudibranch and
other critters hidden amongst debris
and WWII relics (Tufi was a base for the
Australians in WWII). The real draws are
the outer reefs and bommies that dot
this region. Oh, my! What reefs they are!
Jaw-dropping visibility meant we barely
needed to dive; the entire reef top was
clearly visible from our boat. The reefs
here drop down to around 600 metres,
ensuring vibrant coral and marine life, and
also the promise of pelagics.

Our visit in May happened to coincide
with the best time of year for possible
hammerhead sightings, including rare
white hammerheads that can occasionally
be seen in this area. There are also
opportunities to see grey reef, silvertip
and reef sharks, plus tuna, trevally and the
like. Reef life includes batfish, barracuda,
clownfish, turtles, endless fusiliers and so
much more. We managed two full days’
                                               For our full range of holidays to PNG, visit our
diving on the outer reefs, days that will be
                                               website or contact our expert Dive team.
treasured for a long time to come.
                                               Adventure in Tufi
It is so difficult to compare one dive
                                               The undiscovered Tufi region is blessed with stunning
region to another, but I genuinely think       marine diversity and pristine WWII dive sites, as well as
these might be the finest reefs I have ever    majestic fjords which are perfect for kayaking. This trip also
dived. It was such a privilege. And did we     offers a fascinating insight into PNG’s indigenous culture.
see the elusive white hammerhead? We           14 days from £3,895
certainly did!                                 Jan-Dec

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Winter/Spring | 2019/2020 - The Sardine Run SOUTH AFRICA - Dive Worldwide
Access All Areas
Insider guide to accessible diving holidays
               Travel Consultant Cath Bates has worked and dived with
               plenty of divers, some of whom require a little extra when
               planning their next trip …

A
        s an instructor who worked abroad for          diving; also how I de-kit in the water and how I
        11 years, I would see many disabled            need to be lifted.’
        divers playing it safe and going back
to the same destination over and over again.           One of Alan’s favourite places to visit is Tasik
Accessible holidays in general are not yet the         Ria Resort & Spa. He’s been back plenty of
norm as wheelchair-accessible facilities are not       times and it’s mainly thanks to the staff, who
the law in many countries. Finding an accessible       have become like family and are always willing
diving holiday can therefore be somewhat of a          to help.
challenge, but one that we’re up for!
                                                       For Invictus Games athlete Luke Delahunty
I have met some pretty inspirational people            it’s all about access to the bed and bathroom
along the way. Below they share their stories          facilities. Anything else is a bonus! During a
and some top tips to make sure an accessible           liveaboard trip in the Maldives he was carried
diving holiday is a success.                           pretty much everywhere. ‘It’s a means to an
                                                       end. If you want to dive at a manta cleaning
Laura Collinson (main picture) and I are old           station, expect to be manhandled!’
diving buddies. We used to work together
before her accident and she began her dive             Luke and I completed our Instructor
adventures back in 1999 in Egypt with the Back         Development Course (IDC) together in 2004.
Up Trust. She has since dived in more than 11          He has also experienced the Sardine Run in
destinations including Coron and Moalboal in           South Africa, with all the added hassle of a
the Philippines, and Lembeh in Indonesia.              drysuit. On the practical side, he looks for a
                                                       dive centre with a ‘can-do’ attitude to enable
It’s not all been plain sailing and she quickly        him to enjoy diving, just like everyone else. He
realised that questions need to be asked               recommends travelling with a shower curtain
before just turning up. ‘Check door widths and         and a disposable portable urinal, especially
bathroom dimensions. Look at pictures online           when travelling on a boat which may not be set
and discuss with the dive centre the help you          up for wheelchair access. Diving with a group
require and the type of boats used.’                   of friends is also important, alleviating worries
                                                       about asking for help.
Laura recommends joining a dive club as a
great way of getting support and assistance as         ‘Beyond all the practical stuff, when I go on
well as chatting to other disabled divers and          a dive trip I want great diving and to make
support groups such as the Scuba Trust.                amazing memories – just like everyone else.’

Alan Kenny is 78 years young. We’ve dived              Diving is a hobby that already removes many
together in Egypt and Indonesia and he often           barriers and challenges for all of us. Divers are
goes on trips with the Scuba Trust. When               a friendly and open bunch. When we go abroad
planning a diving holiday, his priority is all about   we are all out of our comfort zone to some
the marine life and then he looks at the logistics.    extent. Here at Dive Worldwide – although we
                                                       like to think our holidays are exclusive, we also
Whilst a wheelchair accessible room is                 want to make them inclusive to many types of
essential, he can do without a roll-in shower if       diver.
there’s a shower on the dive boat. For him what
is really important is a dive team and boat crew       We’ve done our research so you don’t
who can ‘think outside the box’ and listen to his      have to. Contact Cath about our range of
requirements.                                          resorts where there is plenty of access
                                                       for wheelchair users. Our expertise is in
‘I describe to them how I get into the water from      creating tailor-made diving holidays for all.
the dive platform and on return to the boat after

10                             Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure
Here at Dive Worldwide we believe that our clients should not have to
                make massive compromises in order to enjoy their holiday. We use a
                number of resorts and dive centres which are willing to adapt their own
                operations to meet the special needs of some divers.

                                      Tasik Ria Resort & Spa Manado, Indonesia

                                         5 wheelchair-friendly bedrooms available, all with roll-in
                                         shower
                                         The bar, restaurant & dive centre are accessible, as are
                                         the pool & jetty via ramps
                                         The dive team and boat crew are very experienced with
                                         disabled divers (some lifting is required to board boats)

                                      True Blue Bay Boutique Resort, Grenada

                                         6 bedrooms with wheelchair access with wider doorways
                                         & roll-in showers
                                         Aquanauts dive centre is happy to cater for divers with
                                         disabilities & has worked with disabled diver charities
                                         Dock accessibility is easy & staff are available to help
                                         board the boats. (Private guides are available)

                                      Lions Dive Resort & Ocean Encounters Diving, Curaçao

                                         2 wheelchair-accessible rooms with connecting rooms for
                                         travelling companion if needed
                                         Both rooms have wheel-in shower, shower seat & grab
                                         rails
                                         The dive team has had a lot of experience with disabled
                                         divers & groups. Dive shop is fully wheelchair accessible

                                      Cayman Brac Beach Resort & Reef Divers, Cayman Islands

                                         3 fully-equipped accessible rooms with roll-in showers, a
                                         low sink, raised toilet & hand rails
                                         The dive centre has facilities for adaptive divers & follows
                                         guidelines set by RAID, SSI & HSA
                                         The dive team has a lot of experience – Dive Pirates
                                         Foundation returns annually with new adaptive diver groups

                                                                      Main image: Laura in the Red Sea

                 Cath & Alan                                Luke in the
                                                            Red Sea

                 For further information about accessible dive holidays, contact
                 Cath Bates or see our website.

sales@diveworldwide.com    |   01962 302087     |   www.diveworldwide.com                               11
Remarkable Liveaboard
Journeys
Serious divers seek out the finest experiences, timing
their adventures to maximise the chance to witness
extraordinary events and magical marine life. Here
we showcase an exclusive collection of remarkable
liveaboard journeys designed to delight even the
most discerning diver or snorkeller.

 Mantas, Sharks & More in the Maldives
 It is in the early months of each year that the southern region of the
 Maldives comes alive. This unique extended itinerary on the luxurious
 Emperor Explorer departs from Malé, heading south to take in the
 wonderful channels of Meemu and Thaa, before heading to south
 Ari for the possibility of manta ray and whale shark encounters.
 The itinerary will remain flexible to ensure the very finest marine life
 encounters.
 15 Mar 2020
 11 days from £2,575 (Emperor Explorer)

 The Galápagos Islands – Extended                                                Spectacular Spawning Events in Palau
 After travelling so far, for a trip few are privileged to make more than        For many of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events, one element
 once, why not make the best of it with an extended Galápagos                    is key – timing. And Palau is no different. Around new moon, at certain
 adventure? While standard seven-night Galápagos itineraries take you            times of year, divers have a chance to witness the aggregation of
 to the heart of the action, our extended 10 and 11-night departures in          spawning sea bream and bumphead parrotfish, while at full moon
 2020, scheduled to coincide with the best times for giant whale shark           it is the turn of the twin-spot snapper. Our Palau departures offer all
 encounters, give you more time to take in everything that makes these           the usual delights of Palau underwater, with the added chance to
 islands a mecca for divers.                                                     encounter these remarkable wildlife events.
 20 Aug 2020, 12 days from £8,465 (Galápagos Aggressor III)                      15 Mar, 26 Apr & 8 Nov 2020, 8 days from £2,449 (Palau Aggressor
 31 Aug 2020, 12 days from £7,655 (Galápagos Aggressor III)                      III or Rock Island Aggressor) Yap extension possible on Nov departure

 Prices are based on two persons sharing, liveaboard, meals and diving (flight prices available on request). Prices correct at time of print (October
 2019). Dates specified are based on liveaboard departures.

12                                Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure
To view our extensive range of remarkable liveaboard
                                                                           journeys visit our website. In addition to the destinations
                                                                           featured here we offer liveaboard adventures in Socorro,
                                                                           Tahiti, Cocos, the Bahamas and Indonesia.

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A South Pacific Escapade Like no Other                                         Humpback Whales in the Dominican Republic
Steeped in culture and mystery, both the Solomon Islands and                   Swim with humpback whales on the Silver Bank in the Dominican
Papua New Guinea are at the top of many divers’ wish lists. On this            Republic’s Sanctuary for Marine Mammals. Each year between January
extraordinary liveaboard journey, you can be one of the first divers to        and April, the largest gathering of North Atlantic humpback whales
dive both on one epic adventure. Starting in either Papua New Guinea           on the planet occurs at Silver Bank, in the Caribbean Sea. Up to
or the Solomon Islands, these departures take you to dive sites seldom         3,000 whales gather to court, mate and give birth. Accompanied by
(if ever) seen by divers, and include exploratory dives en route. Expect       experienced personnel, you’ll see mothers and playful calves, swim
magical biodiversity, pristine reefs and, of course, the unexpected.           amongst whale songs, and witness dramatic courtship ‘dances’.
18 Apr 2021                                                                    13 Mar 2021 ‰
11 days from £3,945 (Solomon PNG Master)                                       8 days from £3,465 (Turks & Caicos Aggressor)

                  sales@diveworldwide.com                    |    01962 302087           |   www.diveworldwide.com                               13
Seasonal
Underwater Escapes
We offer an extensive range of dive holidays at the optimum time to visit some of the
world’s most impressive destinations and enjoy the amazing marine life at its best. Here
our expert Dive team selects some of their favourite dive escapes for each season.

Winter                                                                                                 December to February

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                                                                                                          Discover Christmas Island
                                                                                                          Offering a unique diving experience,
                                                                                                          Christmas Island is most famous for its red
                                                                                                          crab migration which, in turn, attracts the
                                                                                                          arrival of the whale sharks.
                                                                                                          10 days from £2,145

 Southern Maldives Liveaboard                      Dive Cozumel

                                                                                                                                          TH

                                                                                                                                              BE RO
 Renowned for exceptional diving experiences,      Attracting divers from around the world,

                                                                                                                                              E

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 the southern atolls itineraries are best suited   Cozumel lies along the Mesoamerican reef
 to experienced divers. Enjoy thrilling channel    system, and is renowned for its walls, coral

                                                                                                                                                      S
 and exploratory dives plus some of the best       gardens and biodiversity of marine life. Enjoy
 pelagic encounters the Maldives has to offer.     drift dives, sunshine and a holiday pace of life.
 10 days from £2,995                               9 days from £1,625
                                                                                                          Untouched St Helena
                                                                                                          One of the most exciting dive areas to
                                                                                                          open up in recent years, this remote
                                                                                                          Atlantic outcrop is now accessible
                                                                                                          to divers, promising shipwrecks and
                                                                                                          aggregations of whale sharks in season.
                                                                                                          12 days from £3,095
                                                                                                                                         TH

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                                                                                                          Socorro Liveaboard
 Phuket & Khao Lak Diving                          Dive Mafia Island                                      Renowned for some of the best big fish
                                                                                                          diving in the world, the Revillagigedo
 Spend time exploring Khao Lak, Phuket and         Relax at a traditional beachfront lodge and            Islands offer regular giant Pacific manta
 the Similan Islands on Thailand’s west coast.     enjoy some incredible diving both inside Chole         ray and multiple shark species encounters
 Expect a kaleidoscope of marine life, with        Bay and at Kinasi Pass. Snorkelling trips to           as well as other sizeable seasonal visitors.
 opportunities to spot leopard sharks and          observe whale sharks during their annual
 mantas, as well as time to relax in paradise.     aggregation are a seasonal highlight.                  12 days from £3,795

 13 days from £1,595                               11 days from £2,075

             To discover our full range of seasonal escapes visit our website or contact our expert team.

14                                Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure
What an amazing trip. I loved it. Great boat, crew and
                                             guests. I would definitely go again. The food was every                      Seasonal Escapes
                                             bit as good as you said it would be. As for the diving ...
                                            oh my goodness. A life-long dream to dive with dolphins
                                                               fulfilled, not once, but three times.
                                                                                           Tracey A, Socorro

Spring                                                                                                                   March to May
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 Diving Adventure in Alor
 The allure of the Indonesian island of
 Alor is its mix of marine life and diving
 experiences: see pelagics, explore reefs
 and discover critters.
 15 days from £3,645

                                                     Jordanian Highlights                                Island Hopping Dive Safari
                                  PE C T

                                                     Visit Jordan’s cultural and historic sites          Choose from five diving locations in the
                                    L A ION
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                                       GI

                                                     including Petra, Jerash and Kerak, dive the         Visayas region of the Philippines. Enjoy some
                                          C

                                                     uncrowded shores of Aqaba and explore the           of the best dive sites in the region as you hop
                                                     dramatic and beautiful desert landscapes of         between islands, discovering life on the reefs
                                                     Wadi Rum on this varied itinerary.                  and enjoying encounters with sharks.
                                                     10 days from £2,195                                 17 days from £2,345
 Western Australia Diving
 The north-west Cape and world-famous
 Ningaloo Reef is diving adventure at its
 best, offering unforgettable experiences
 with large pelagic species (some
 seasonal).
 16 days from £3,795
                                  TI
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 Palau & Yap
 Book this fabulous twin-centre itinerary            Visit Tobago                                        Truk Wrecks Liveaboard
 to two of the Pacific’s most iconic
 and spectacular diving destinations.                Southern Tobago is full of life and offers diving   Explore the world’s finest wreck destination by
 Experience manta rays in Yap, and dive              to suit all abilities, from shallow sloping reefs   luxury liveaboard. Nowhere else in the world
 the colourful reefs and wrecks of Palau.            to thrilling drift dives and wrecks. The area is    are there so many shallow wrecks in close
                                                     famous for its nesting leatherback, hawksbill       proximity, and this unique area is also home
 19 days from £4,895                                 and green turtles (seasonal).                       to sharks and eagle rays.
                                                     9 days from £1,195                                  15 days from £4,895

All holiday prices are based on two persons sharing, including flights from the UK, accommodation, transfers and diving, except where
specified. Prices correct at time of print (October 2019).

                    sales@diveworldwide.com                   |    01962 302087              |   www.diveworldwide.com                                15
The care and organisation shown by the Dive Worldwide
Seasonal Escapes                            team was exemplary and the whole trip and experience
                                          was faultless. While I hope that I acclimatised myself well
                                           and quickly, this would never have happened if I had not
                                             had you to support, lead and advise me through all the
                                            diving. It was beyond what could be normally expected.
                                          All this helped me to complete a dream I have held for 32
                                                    years – to dive TRUK LAGOON. I owe you one.
                                                                                   Martin M, Truk Lagoon

Summer                                                                                                           June to August

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                                                                                                       Sardine Run Adventure
                                                                                                       Witness the ‘greatest shoal on Earth’ as
                                                                                                       millions of sardines migrate along South
                                                                                                       Africa’s eastern coastline. Get up close to
                                                                                                       a huge variety of marine life.
                                                                                                       10 days from £2,545

 Visit Malta                                        Silfra Diving Weekend

                                                                                                                                       PE FA
                                                                                                                                       FO
 Discover the best wrecks in the                    Dive between two continents in Iceland’s

                                                                                                                                         RF MI
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                                                                                                                                            EC L I E
 Mediterranean. Explore colourful reefs and         crystal clear waters. Include this unique

                                                                                                                                              T S
 magnificent underwater caves, as well as           experience at Silfra as part of a long weekend
 enjoying all that this captivating island has to   break to the land of fire and ice, a nation with
 offer on land.                                     stunning natural marvels.
 8 days from £745                                   4 days from £995
                                                                                                       Cenotes & Reefs
                                                                                                       This dive adventure includes turtle
                                                                                                       encounters on the reef and a unique,
                                                                                                       experience as you discover the crystal
                                                                                                       clear water of the world-famous Cenotes
                                                                                                       in Mexico. Snorkellers welcome.
                                                                                                       9 days from £1,575
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                                                                                                       Rangiroa & Fakarava
 Great Astrolabe & Beqa Lagoon                      Galápagos Liveaboard                               Exhilarating diving in Rangiroa’s two
                                                                                                       passes coupled with the Garuae pass in
 This itinerary offers spectacular soft coral       The Galápagos Islands are a must for               Fakarava makes this a thrilling adventure
 diving, dramatic drop-offs and manta ray           all experienced divers. Encounter silky,           for shark lovers, and so much more
 encounters at the world’s fourth largest barrier   Galápagos, hammerhead and whale sharks             besides!
 reef – Great Astrolabe off Kadavu Island, Fiji –   from the comfort of a liveaboard, and come
 followed by some exhilarating shark dives.         face to face with unique wildlife topside.         18 days from £6,145

 15 days from £3,745                                10 days from £5,495

16                                  Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure
Absolutely fantastic service by Dive Worldwide – all
                                                   enquiries were answered in a timely manner and all                          Seasonal Escapes
                                                 information was accurate and really helpful. Couldn’t
                                             recommend them enough! Easiest booking process I’ve
                                            ever used, and you are always updated with what’s going
                                           on. Bali is an amazing place to dive – the waters are super
                                                                clear, and the marine life is fantastic.
                                                                                                      Kayleigh B, Bali

Autumn                                                                                                  September to November
                                TH

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 Isla Guadalupe Liveaboard
 Discover the world’s most exciting great
 white shark dive site by liveaboard. Enjoy
 cage diving expeditions in the crystal clear
 waters of the Pacific.
 9 days from £3,745

                                                      BIG in Bali                                              Visit Bonaire
                                  BE CK
                                    BU
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                                                      Suitable for divers of all abilities, this itinerary     Enjoy a short break to Bonaire, undeniably the
                                       N T-L
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                                                      travels to the mystical island of Nusa                   shore diving capital of the world and a diver’s
                                            E

                                                      Lembongan for a unique diving experience.                paradise. The majority of dive sites are easily
                                                      The mantas are mesmerising, the reefs are                accessed from the shore, and offer fantastic
                                                      vibrant and mola mola might even appear.                 opportunities for underwater photography.
                                                      11 days from £1,425                                      9 days from £1,565
 Cocos Island Liveaboard
 Many experienced divers have Cocos
 Island firmly on their bucket-list, and this
 remote destination is a haven for shark
 encounters. Extend your adventure on
 mainland Costa Rica with its wild delights.
 14 days from £5,095
                                     RE
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 Galápagos Islands Adventure
 Follow in Darwin’s footsteps and discover            Northern Islands                                         Dive & Discover PNG
 the wealth of the Galápagos’ flora and
 fauna both underwater and topside on                 Northern Mozambique is home to some                      Uncover the magic of Papua New Guinea,
 this adventure to Santa Cruz and Isabela             of the richest reefs in eastern Africa and a             one of the last unexplored areas of the world.
 Islands. Suitable for divers and snorkellers.        great choice for those seeking remote luxury             This adventure includes two exceptional
                                                      – based for a week at the superb Nuarro                  diving areas in Kimbe Bay and Kavieng – both
 11 days from £4,275                                  Lodge. Suited to divers of all abilities.                renowned for macro and pelagic marine life.
                                                      10 days from £2,995                                      17 days from £4,995

All holiday prices are based on two persons sharing, including flights from the UK, accommodation, transfers and diving, except where
specified. Prices correct at time of print (October 2019).

                    sales@diveworldwide.com                     |    01962 302087                 |    www.diveworldwide.com                               17
The Coral Triangle
Discover the world’s richest reefs!
Dive into the richest reefs on the planet – choose from our
selection of holidays to the Philippines, PNG, Indonesia and
the Solomon Islands, all of which lie within the Coral Triangle.

 T
        he Coral Triangle covers            We offer a range of holiday options in
        an imaginary area in the            Papua New Guinea and its islands
        western Pacific Ocean               of New Britain and New Ireland.
 identified by scientists as having         Best known are Kimbe Bay (Walindi
 the highest diversity of corals            Plantation Resort) and Tufi – with over
 (almost 800 species) in the world,         200 dive sites to explore (including
 2,000 species of reef fish including       WWII wrecks), divers will be amazed
 numerous endemics, plus whales,            at the vivid colours, vibrant, healthy
 dolphins, porpoises, dugongs and           and beautiful reefs waiting to be
 whale sharks … not to mention              discovered. Recommended for
 some of the most beautiful jungle-         underwater photographers and divers
 clad islands and clear turquoise           who enjoy pristine reefs.
 seas the world has to offer.
                                            The Philippines can be dived at any
 Stretching from the Philippines,           time of the year and are very good
 Borneo and Indonesia in the west to        value for money. The dry season
 Papua New Guinea and the Solomon           offers the best all-round diving
 Islands in the east, the Coral Triangle    conditions and marine life encounters
 is remote and still relatively untouched   as well as ideal conditions on Apo
 by tourism. We offer dive holidays to      reef. March to May offers the best
 Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, the           chance of whale shark encounters
 Philippines and Solomon Islands, all       at Donsol, while if you’re after
 of which lie within the Coral Triangle.    mantas as well as thresher sharks
                                            in Malapascua, September’s your
 Indonesia’s Raja Ampat Islands lie         best bet. With fabulous resorts and
 in West Papua, in the epicentre of         a range of liveaboard options (such
 the Coral Triangle, and this area is       as to Tubbataha), the Philippines is
 generally accepted by scientists as        excellent for marine diversity, critter
 being the ‘bull’s eye’ of world coral      action, thresher sharks and pelagics.
 diversity. Resorts are accessed by         It’s also a popular and relatively
 boat transfer and can be visited           accessible destination within the
 throughout the year. Alternatively,        Coral Triangle.
 join a liveaboard for the ultimate Raja
 Ampat experience. Elsewhere in             The exceptional dive sites around the
 Indonesia, we offer trips to the lesser-   Solomon Islands can be reached
 known destinations of Alor, Kalimaya,      and enjoyed equally through resorts,
 Sali Bay and Ambon (which can be           or liveaboard, visiting renowned
 twinned with Raja Ampat). Expect           dive sites in the Florida and Russell
 vibrant and colourful reefs, plenty        Islands, as well as the world’s longest
 of macro life, schooling barracuda,        lagoon, Marovo. A combination
 countless schools of fish (over 1,200      of both resort-based diving and
 known species are found here),             liveaboard will ensure you get the
 manta ray encounters and plenty of         best out of this incredible Pacific
 drift diving in the fast currents which    outpost.
 help feed the nutrient-rich waters.

Contact our expert team for details about all of our resort-based and liveaboard dive holidays to the Coral Triangle.

18                              Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure
Discover the Visayas                             Dive Raja Ampat                                Solomon Islands Liveaboard
A popular Philippines itinerary in the Visayas   Resort-based diving in Raja Ampat offers       Famed as much for their pristine reefs as
region which offers the chance of thresher       divers and snorkellers a world-class           well as their wrecks, the Solomon Islands are
shark encounters in Malapascua, and a            experience and plenty of reward both on the    best dived by liveaboard. Discover the vast
unique dive in Moalboal around Pescador          reefs and islands in this remote location at   array of dive sites, an outstanding biodiversity
Island with its resident sardine baitball.       the heart of the renowned Coral Triangle.      of marine life and plenty of adventure.
13 days from £2,175                              14 days from £4,325                            12 days from £5,275
Jan-Dec                                          Jan-Dec                                        Apr-Dec

                   sales@diveworldwide.com                |   01962 302087            |   www.diveworldwide.com                              19
Join a Group Diving Adventure
Group diving holidays are hugely rewarding, allowing you to dive with like-minded people,
make friends and experience some superb diving. Below we feature six fantastic small group
holidays focusing on photography, learning to dive, muck diving and exciting encounters
with whale sharks. For further information please visit our website.

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 Dive into Lembeh                               Magic Photo Experience                          Learn to Dive in Malta
 Lembeh Strait is renowned worldwide            The aquarium-like reefs along the               With year round sunshine, excellent
 for its exceptional biodiversity,              coastline of Anda on Bohol Island boast         visibility and calm waters, Malta is an
 attracting marine experts and budding          spectacular marine life, from tiny critters     affordable place to learn to dive. Travel
 photographers. Led by marine biologist         to larger pelagic species. Join experts         with like-minded people and work
 and underwater photography expert              Nick and Caroline Robertson-Brown               towards your PADI Open Water course.
 Dr Richard Smith, this group trip              in this region of the Philippines to            The course includes independent
 combines muck diving and photographic          discover and photograph the dazzling            learning prior to arrival, plus tuition and
 opportunities. A must for divers with an       array of marine life from muck sites to         diving skills in Malta. Once qualified,
 interest in all things macro.                  colourful reefs.                                continue to dive with your new buddies.

 Departs 12 Apr 2020                            Departs 19 May 2020                             Departs 14 Jun & 6 Sep 2020
 Group size: 20                                 Group size: 16                                  Group size: 8
 10 days from £2,345 (single supp. £375)        13 days from £2,695 (single supp. £520)         8 days from £975 (single supp. £200)
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 Muck & Magic                                   Dive & Culture in Bali                          Dive & Discover St Helena
 Expert photographer Saeed Rashid               Based on Bali’s north coast at Pondok           Travel to this remote island destination
 will be in residence at Tasik Ria Resort,      Sari, and north-east at Alam Anda, enjoy        with Danny Copeland during peak
 in Bunaken, followed by Dive into              six dives from each resort including sites      whale shark season and discover plenty
 Lembeh Resort. Join him in Indonesia           at Menjangan Island and the Liberty             of South Atlantic marine life. The trip
 for some or all of this period, and            wreck. Expect colourful reefs, plenty of        includes morning dives and at least two
 benefit from talks on subject selection,       fish and numerous critters, plus topside,       days’ snorkelling with whale sharks, a
 lighting, composition and photographic         enjoy local hikes, cooking classes and          chance to explore the island, plus the
 techniques, daily critiques of photos,         cultural sightseeing plus a spa treatment       opportunity to uncover the mysteries of
 plus one to one advice.                        at each resort.                                 this special island destination.

 Visit 10-24 Jul 2020 (land only)               Departs 3 Jun 2020                              Departs 28 Jan 2021
 11 days from £1,475 (single supp. £325)        Group size: 10                                  Group size: 12
 15 days from £2,065 (single supp. £445)        16 days from £2,675 (single supp. £380)         11 days from £3,995 (single supp. £350)

Holiday prices are based on two persons sharing, including flights from the UK (unless specified), accommodation, transfers, diving, and
the services of an expert guide where applicable. Prices correct at time of print (October 2019).

20                             Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure
Secrets of the South Atlantic
Whale sharks, devil rays & endemic fish
             The little-known, far-flung island of St Helena is fast gaining a reputation for
             extraordinary whale shark encounters, huge shoals of fish and endemics.
             Marine conservationist and multimedia expert Danny Copeland describes
             what to expect after leading our group trip to St Helena earlier this year.

                                                                                                            © Danny Copeland

H
        aving spent over six weeks        far more than you might expect             It may be a fantastically remote
        working with conservationists     to see in a mid-Atlantic, tropical         destination, but St Helena holds so
        and scientists on the remote      corner of the ocean. Visitors will be      many treasures for those willing to
island of St Helena, I can say            treated to wrecks, beautiful caverns,      make the voyage. I hope many of you
wholeheartedly that this magical          squadrons of devil rays, and schools       will join me on my next adventure to
island is one of the most unique          of endemic butterfly fish – all within     this secret of the South Atlantic.
and breathtaking destinations on          a 10-25-minute RIB journey out of
the planet. It boasts a remarkable        Jamestown. Oh, and let’s not forget        Join Danny in St Helena in 2021
population of adult whale sharks that     the ridiculously clear visibility that’s   (see opposite). This new small
is not only of growing conservation       only possible in deep, mid-ocean           group tour is timed to coincide
importance, but also consists of the      waters such as the ones that wrap          with the annual aggregation of
largest and most inquisitive individual   around the island. Back on land,           whale sharks.
whale sharks I’ve ever encountered.       St Helena has a unique history that
Snorkelling with more than one shark,     is worth extended time topside.
near-motionless in the water beside       Sculpted by breathtaking volcanic
you, is the sort of encounter that        mountains and cloud forest valleys,
marine life enthusiasts’ dreams are       its vistas and varied habitats are
made of!                                  looked after by a community of
                                          ‘Saints’, who are more endearing and
St Helena’s dive sites are varied and     welcoming than any group of people
exciting in their own right, offering     I’ve ever visited.

                sales@diveworldwide.com           |   01962 302087         |   www.diveworldwide.com                     21
Helping Turtles in PNG
Support for marine charities
We are excited to be expanding our charitable donations to marine
conservation organisations and projects in 2020 with a pledge to help
turtles in Papua New Guinea.

F
       or the past few years we have       We have identified two nearby,
       been working to support some        uninhabited islands as common turtle
       incredible marine charities.        nesting grounds: Edmago Island and
 Project AWARE Foundation does             Ral Island.
 some amazing work on behalf of divers
 for marine conservation. Bite-Back        ‘Over 90% of our nests are from
 Shark & Marine Conservation is an         hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys
 energetic, innovative and pioneering      imbricata), while the remaining nests
 shark and marine conservation charity,    are from green turtles (Chelonia mydas).
 which aims to protect and re-educate      Hawksbill turtles are classified as
 people about sharks as well as            ‘Critically Endangered’, and Green
 campaigning to end the sale of shark      Turtles are listed as ‘Endangered’, by
 in Britain. We also recently supported    IUCN as well as CITES.
 Deptherapy, a rehabilitation charity
 which runs specially tailored scuba       ‘During the nesting season, from early
 diving programmes for seriously injured   September through to mid-February,
 members of the UK armed forces and        we travel to those two islands early
 others, in organising a trip to Truk      every morning. Once there, we follow
 Lagoon.                                   any new turtle tracks, find the nest
                                           and carefully relocate the eggs to
 In 2020 we are pledging to increase our   nesting boxes back on Lissenung
 conservation efforts. We are pleased to   Island. The hatchlings emerge from
 offer continued support to the above      the nest approximately 60 days later,
 charities, as well as supporting more     and we collect important data and
 grass roots organisations such as the     measurements before releasing them.
 fantastic Turtle Conservation Project     So far, we have released 14,660 live
 that was set up by Lissenung Island       hatchlings, and we already have eight
 Resort in Papua New Guinea.               nests in this year’s season.’

 Turtle numbers are in decline in Papua    It is estimated that only about one
 New Guinea. New Ireland has been          in 1,000 turtles will survive until
 populated by humans for almost            adulthood, so the efforts made and
 40,000 years, and turtles and their       data collected at Lissenung are vital in
 eggs have always been a traditional       helping the survival of the species. They
 food source. Due to population growth,    also educate the local people about the
 as well as the well-known threats of      importance of turtle conservation, in
 fishing nets and plastic pollution, the   the hope of creating a more sustainable
 local turtle population is now under      future for the turtles in Papua New
 serious threat and declining rapidly.     Guinea.

 The project’s director, Angelique Amon,   To help support Lissenung Island
 describes the initiative:                 Resort and the brilliant work they are
                                           doing, we are pleased to pledge an
 ‘We started our Turtle Conservation       initial donation of £2,000. This will help
 Programme in 2013 in order to protect     towards a project to build community
 the remaining turtles as well as to       education on turtles – to find out more
 educate the local population about        follow us on social media.
 turtle and environmental protection.

22                         Contact our Dive team to plan your next diving adventure
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