Ten top world SCUBA dive locations - outside of New Zealand!

1. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands is a volcanic archipelago that's famous for its unique and varied marine life, much of which can be found nowhere else on Earth. Divers can expect to see a spectacular display of biodiversity, including hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, marine iguanas, sea lions, and even penguins. The best time to dive here is between June and November when the colder water attracts a greater number of sharks and rays.
Why it's well rated: Unique wildlife encounters and incredible biodiversity.

Further Reading

2. Blue Corner Wall, Palau, Micronesia

This drift dive off the island of Palau is known for its strong currents and abundant sea life. Expect to see reef sharks, barracudas, eagle rays, and an array of tropical fish. The best diving conditions are typically from December to March.
Why it's well rated: Thrilling drift dive experience and prolific marine life.

Further Reading

3. Thistlegorm, Red Sea, Egypt

The Thistlegorm is a British transport ship sunk by German bombers in World War II. It now serves as an underwater museum and one of the best wreck dives globally. Divers can explore motorcycles, trucks, and even locomotives. Best dived in the summer months, from May to August.
Why it's well rated: Fascinating history and structure teeming with marine life.

Further Reading

4. Richelieu Rock, Thailand

This horseshoe-shaped reef in the Andaman Sea is renowned for its whale shark sightings. Aside from these gentle giants, divers can also spot mantas, barracudas, and colourful reef fish. Optimal diving conditions are from November to April.
Why it's well rated: Regular whale shark sightings and vibrant corals.

Further Reading

5. Barracuda Point, Sipadan Island, Malaysia

Barracuda Point is well-known for the 'tornado' of barracudas that often gather here. Additionally, the wall dive is teeming with turtles, white tip sharks, and colourful coral reefs. Diving is excellent year-round, but the dry season (from April to December) offers the best visibility.
Why it's well rated: The famous barracuda tornado and diverse marine life.

Further Reading

6. Liberty Wreck, Bali, Indonesia

The USAT Liberty, a WWII cargo ship, provides a popular dive spot off the coast of Bali. This accessible shore dive is suitable for all levels and offers a home to hundreds of species of marine life. Diving is excellent all year, with the best visibility from April to November.
Why it's well rated: Accessible wreck dive, suitable for all levels, and excellent night diving.

Further Reading

7. The Yongala, Australia

Australia's Great Barrier Reef gets a second entry with the SS Yongala wreck. This steamship sank during a cyclone in 1911 and now hosts a rich ecosystem of marine life, including sea snakes, turtles, and bull sharks. The best time to dive is during the dry winter months, from April to August.
Why it's well rated: Legendary marine life on an accessible, historic shipwreck.

Further Reading

8. The Blue Hole, Belize

This world-renowned sinkhole is a unique dive spot offering divers a chance to explore stalactites and geological formations over 140,000 years old. Diving is excellent year-round, but the best visibility is typically between April and June.
Why it's well rated: Unique geological formations, seemingly bottomless blue-water dive experience.

Further Reading

9. Dos Ojos, Mexico

Part of the largest underwater cave system in the world, Dos Ojos ("Two Eyes") offers an extraordinary diving experience. Crystal-clear freshwater, stalactites, and stalagmites create an otherworldly ambiance. The cenotes can be dived year-round, with the dry season from December to April offering the best conditions.
Why it's well rated: Crystal clear visibility, stunning underwater formations in a guided 'cave diving' experience.

Further Reading

10. Silfra, Iceland

A fissure between two continental plates, Silfra offers the unique opportunity to touch two continents simultaneously. The glacial water provides excellent visibility, and the underwater scenery is truly unparalleled. Diving is available year-round, with summer months offering longer daylight hours.
Why it's well rated: Unique cold-water and geology focussed diving experience in crystal-clear water.

Further Reading