While we regularly wax lyrical about the wonders of the world as seen from dry land, it’s time for the ocean to have its moment. From (tongue twisters alert) kaleidoscopically colourful coral to magnificent marine life and ludicrously luxurious liveaboard boats, it’s got a lot to offer. The big blue does, after all, cover 70% of the planet, so it's only right we give it the attention it deserves. Enter our specialist dive team: Original Diving. Experts in the watery stuff worldwide, our team can help organise all kinds of dive holidays, whether you want to dip your toe into the diving world or book a full-blown dedicated dive trip. For those with a penchant for the ocean, discover a few of our favourite destinations and experiences for divers of all types...
1. Casual divers: Mexico
2. Learner divers: St Vincent & the Grenadines
3. Dive enthusiasts: Raja Ampat, Indonesia
4. Families: Oman
5. Snorkellers: The Maldives
Casual divers: Mexico
Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula offers so much both above and below the waves, making it the perfect destination for those who fancy a spot of diving as part of a wider trip. Stay at the Belmond Maroma and dive the wonderful cenotes or along the coastline, where whale sharks, bull sharks and beautiful reefs await. Back on land, relax on white sand beaches, indulge in some wonderful cuisine and explore the jungle, wildlife and ancient Mayan ruins. The full package.
Read about diving in Mexico on the Original Diving website.
Learner divers: St Vincent & the Grenadines
The Caribbean is a beginner's paradise thanks to its pleasantly warm waters, incredible visibility and some great marine life (particularly sharks). It also just so happens to be home to some of the best beach hotels in the world. Our pick of the bunch is Petit St Vincent in St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Read about St Vincent & the Grenadines on the Original Diving website.
Image by Steve Woods Photography/Getty Images
Dive enthusiasts: Raja Ampat, Indonesia
If you're a 'been there, done that, where's next?' kind of diver, then Raja Ampat in Indonesia is probably already on your bucket list. It’s a destination which boasts the highest marine biodiversity on the planet, so divers can expect a veritable smorgasbord of soft corals and macro life. Well, there's no time like the present to book your once-in-a-lifetime dive holiday…
Read about Raja Ampat on the Original Diving website.
Families: Oman
Diving is a great activity for the whole family to enjoy (for starters, there’s no chance of squabbling underwater), with children as young as eight able to take their Bubblemaker course. The perfect place to do this is at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah in Oman, a fabulous family hotel complete with a dive centre, private sandy beaches, children's clubs and a whole range of other activities to keep your little ones happy. It's got the October half-term written all over it if you ask us.
Read about diving in Oman on the Original Diving website.
Image by Francesco Ungaro / Pexels
Snorkellers: the Maldives
For those who prefer staying closer to the surface, there is some spectacular snorkelling to be had in the Maldives (the diving isn't bad here, either). Many of the hotels have their own house reefs, and the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean are perfect for exploring colourful corals and magical marine life. What's more, the Maldives perfectly combines with other destinations, such as Sri Lanka, should you wish to inject some culture and adventure into your holiday, too.
Read about the Maldives on the Original Diving website.
Header image by Pia B / Pexels
