TAKE 2


Clients looking to dive or snorkel in an untouched corner of the Caribbean? Laura French charts the region’s best lesser-known sites


w


hen it comes to underwater exploration, few


regions in the world can lay claim to quite so many riches as the Caribbean, with more than 7,000 islands – spread across a million square miles of ocean – luring snorkellers and divers from across the planet. But it’s not just about the quantity.


The sheer variety of undersea attractions here really stands out, with shipwrecks, drop-off walls, cave systems, coral gardens, underwater sculpture parks and


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plenty more in the mix. And whether it’s shore diving


in Bonaire or shark diving in the Bahamas, snorkelling with hawksbills in Honduras or exploring the vibrant reefs of Belize, the forever-changing landscape means there’s always something to warrant a second, third or even fourth trip. So where should you suggest when a client comes asking for exactly that? Here’s our guide to some of the best lesser-known options for every level and ability, from total novice to fully accomplished Divemaster.


² 9 JANUARY 2020 67


DESTINATIONS DIVING | CARIBBEAN


LIKE THIS? GRENADA


From shipwreck dives to dramatic drop-off walls, Grenada is something of a magnet for anyone into their underwater life. The island’s highlight, though, is the Underwater Sculpture Park, where impressive creations – ranging from a string of life-sized faces to a man cycling along the side of the reef on a salvaged bicycle – act as artificial reefs in a sprawling Marine Protected Area.


CARRIACOU


WHERE: For something a little quieter, look to Grenada’s sister island, Carriacou. Measuring just seven miles long, this pint-sized isle is a haven for snorkellers as well as divers, with clear, shallow waters and vibrant coral formations that have earned it the name ‘Land of Reefs’.


HIGHLIGHTS: “The island’s iconic Two Sisters dive is packed with marine life,” says Phil North, brand manager for Dive Worldwide. “Large barracuda, nurse sharks and even tarpon can all be found here, darting among colourful soft corals.” Elsewhere there’s Sandy Island, a horseshoe-shaped islet that offers diving straight off the shore, and Whirlpool, so named for the volcanic bubbles that can be seen rising to the surface. A handful of shipwreck dives adds to the allure.


BOOK IT: Dive Worldwide offers a twin-centre itinerary to Grenada and Carriacou from £2,875, including 14 nights’ B&B accommodation, a 10-day dive package, transfers


and flights. diveworldwide.com


TRY THIS


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