What do Palau, Antarctica and The Red Sea all have in common?
They all offer phenomenal diving adventures.
Outsyda’s, if diving = life to you then we need to custom build adventures for you to explore each of these three must-do destinations.
Diving in Palau: A Subaquatic Wonderland
In the heart of the Pacific Ocean, Palau is an archipelago of over 500 islands renowned for its unparalleled diving opportunities. From steep drop-offs of its outer reefs to the serene inner lagoons, as part of the Coral Triangle, an area often described as the global center for marine biodiversity, Palau offers a rich tapestry of underwater environments.
With over 1,300 species of fish, 700 species of corals, and 1,000 species of invertebrates, the diversity of marine life in Palau's dive sites is simply extraordinary.
One of the unique aspects of Palau’s underwater world is the chance to see both tropical species and larger pelagic creatures in a single dive.
Blue Corner – Arguably the most famous dive site in Palau, Blue Corner is a pinnacle dive that is renowned for its high concentration of large pelagics. Strong currents sweep divers around the reef, providing an incredible opportunity to witness schools of barracuda, tuna, and sharks as they patrol the area. The site is often frequented by mantas and offers the rare chance to encounter oceanic white-tip sharks.
Jellyfish Lake – While not a typical diving site, Jellyfish Lake is a must-see for those who visit Palau. The lake, located on Eil Malk Island, is home to millions of non-stinging jellyfish. Snorkelers and divers alike can enter the lake, where they can float among the jellyfish, experiencing an ethereal sensation of being surrounded by these translucent creatures.
Siaes Tunnel – A captivating dive site that features an underwater tunnel and a dramatic drop-off. The site is home to schools of fish, giant groupers, and the occasional shark or ray. The tunnel itself is an exciting feature, providing divers with the chance to explore its dark, mysterious interior.
The Helmet Wreck – For history buffs and wreck diving enthusiasts, Palau offers some incredible wreck sites. The Helmet Wreck is a Japanese shipwreck that rests at a depth of around 50 feet. Overgrown with corals, this wreck is home to a variety of marine life, making it an interesting dive for both divers interested in history and those wanting to explore marine ecosystems.
Best time to dive?
Diving in Palau is possible year-round, with the water temperature staying between 25-29°C. The best time to dive is during the dry season, from November to April, when visibility is at its peak. If Manta Rays are on your diving list to see, then April and May offer the best chance to see them as they migrate.
’Discover subglacial lakes, where unique ecosystems exist, isolated from the rest of the world for millions of years and, with careful planning, explore underwater volcanic areas with hydrothermal vents, where hardy life forms exist in the mineral-rich waters.’
Don your specialised cold-water diving gear and prepare to see life on the cooler side of the sea
Diving in Antarctica is a rare, once-in-a-lifetime experience for those adventurous enough to face the extreme conditions. Visibility is often reduced due to particulate matter in the water, ice, or algae blooms, but it can range from 10 metres to 30 metres in clear conditions.
It's a chance to see a world few others have witnessed, and to witness the resilient life forms that manage to survive in one of the harshest environments on Earth. Due to the extreme nature of the conditions, Antarctic diving is generally done with experienced guides and support teams.
Extremely cold? Yes, however, a range of species has adapted to survive in these harsh conditions. Some of the animals you may encounter include:
- Antarctic Toothfish and Icefish are common. These fish have adapted to the cold by developing antifreeze proteins in their blood to prevent it from freezing.
- Krill, which form the basis of the Antarctic food web, can often be found in swarms, along with larger crustaceans like amphipods.
- Sea Spiders are common in cold waters, with long, spindly legs that help them navigate the low-oxygen environment.
- The Antarctic octopus, which is typically small and has evolved to thrive in the extreme cold.
- Weddell seals and Leopard seals are common in Antarctica and may approach you in a curious manner.
Rare sightings of cold-water corals and sponges
While the waters of Antarctica aren't typically known for extensive coral reefs, certain cold-water corals, sponges, and sea anemones can be found. These creatures have adapted to the slow-growing, nutrient-poor environment and have created underwater gardens on the ocean floor.
In the summer months, Antarctica’s waters can host massive plankton blooms, creating surreal colors in the water. Some of these microscopic organisms glow, creating bioluminescence displays if disturbed, making nighttime dives magical.
Finally see the rest of the iceberg …
Swim past these frozen structures up close, where the interplay of light and shadows as it filters through the ice becoming a photographer's dream.
Antarctica is an adventure, whether you sail there or fly from Punta Arenas, this is a place where expertise and professionalism is essential. Our very own Ant is ready to co-ordinate your dream trip and ensure you have the right equipment when it’s needed and the right people to ensure you get the most from your trip in a safe manner.
Intrigued? Read our other blog on the coldest continent and get in touch if you want to travel solo or with your crew and we’ll get planning for you in finer detail.
We love custom building diving trips around the Red Sea.
Egypt’s underwater national park is no secret for divers. However, there are several lesser-explored locations where you can escape the crowds and experience some of the Red Sea's best diving.
Many of these less tourist-known sites are only accessible by liveaboard, which helps limit the number of divers. Liveaboard trips can take you to remote spots in the southern Red Sea, the offshore islands, and the less-visited reefs of Egypt and Sudan.
Elphinstone Reef
Off the coast of Marsa Ala lies Elphinstone, well known in the diving community, it is still less crowded than some of the other Red Sea hotspots. It's famous for its spectacular vertical drop-offs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. The reef attracts large pelagics, such as oceanic whitetip sharks, hammerhead sharks, and tuna.
Rocky Island and Zabargad Island
These islands are part of the Farasan Archipelago, far to the south of the Egyptian Red Sea, near Marsa Alam and close to the Sudanese border.
A remote area that sees very few divers. Zabargad Island is famous for its stunning coral reefs and the chance to spot barracuda, whale sharks, and even the occasional turtle. Rocky Island is also known for its pristine dive sites and dramatic underwater landscapes. The marine life is exceptional, including large schools of fish, pelagics, and healthy coral reefs. Because of the islands' remoteness, they remain far less crowded, making it a hidden gem for adventurous divers.
Caves and swim throughs more your thing? You need to go to Sha'ab Mahmoud and Sha'ab Sataya
These are quieter, less-visited reefs compared to others around Marsa Alam. The area offers beautiful coral gardens, caves, and swim-throughs. With fewer dive boats visiting, it’s a more serene spot to enjoy the underwater beauty of the Red Sea. You’ll find turtles, schools of fish, vibrant corals, and the occasional shark or ray.
St. John's Reefs
St. John's Reefs is an isolated reef system often visited by liveaboard boats, making it less accessible by day trips. The reefs are in excellent condition, and the underwater landscapes are diverse, with walls, caves, and tunnels to explore. The reefs are home to schools of fish, including Napoleon wrasse, barracuda, and tuna. St. John's is also known for the occasional appearance of large sharks, like hammerheads and oceanic whitetips.