Best Underwater Worlds

by Editor
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Aspiring Ariels will be enticed to book a vacation to the best underwater worlds on the planet. From swimming alongside the wildlife of the pristine Galapagos to exploring shipwrecks in the Bahamas, these destinations easily sell why life is better under the sea.

Swim in Cenotes on Mexico’s Caribbean Coast

La Valise Tulum

Explore underground caves and swimming holes known for their healing waters and channel ancient Mayan mysticism in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. These magnificent sites for nature exploration and archeological expeditions often feature symbols and remains of a bygone era.

Book one of La Valise Tulum’s signature Cenote Suites, which feature outdoor showers and private Jacuzzis, plus access to your very own cenote.

Under the Saban Sea 

Discover an underwater world that plunges as deeply as it rises above. Saba’s waters, where volcanic lava flows created a natural labyrinth of spur and groove formations, are home to 400+ species and offer endless possibilities for discovery, making Saba a must for aspiring Ariels.

Make Spyglass Villa your home, a haven of peace equipped with stunning views, modern amenities and contemporary furnishings.

Become a Mermaid in the Protected Waters of Bonaire

The friendly, calm and protected Gatorade blue-hued waters of Bonaire beckon to both landlubbers and want to be mermaids alike.

The allure of the World’s First Blue Destination’s 100% protected waters has long been its shore diving scene, but it’s also easily accessible and a welcome environment for amateur divers and snorkelers to explore hundreds of tropical and reef species.

An array of magical mermaid experiences are available through DeepSea FreeDiving, while a number of resorts on Bonaire have their own house reefs and watersports shops on site, such as Buddy Dive.

Float in the Saltwater Lagoons of Kauai

Guppies can opt for the safe saltwater lagoons of Lydgate Beach Park, nestled along Kauai’s Royal Coconut Coast. Walls of boulders shelter off two sandy-bottomed saltwater pools along this oceanfront: a larger, deep one and a smaller, shallow wading pool ideal for younger children looking to dip their fins in.

As one of the island’s best coastal hangouts for families, these basins offer the gentlest swimming and snorkelling access and a plethora of tropical fish, including puffers, parrotfish, tangs, moray eels, and more.

Guests staying at the nearby Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort can ride bikes (included in the resort fee) along the Kauai bike path along the coast to Lydgate.

Discover the Diversity “Under the Sea” throughout the Galapagos

Take an ocean safari through the Galapagos to swim alongside marine iguanas and sea lions, snorkel with pint-sized penguins, paddle board among sea turtles, and watch famous blue-footed boobies dive for fish!

Sail on one of Ecoventura‘s luxury expedition ships that carry passengers around the islands with daily activities, including kayaking, zodiac rides and snorkel excursions.

Ecoventura can also arrange a third-party dive for guests, or they can take board the Galapagos Sky, which is one of the few ships with a scuba diving permit for the protected waters.

Dive Amongst the S.S. Sapona Shipwreck in Bimini

The island of Bimini is home to the S.S. Sapona Shipwreck, one of the most marvellous underwater worlds for snorkelling in the Caribbean.

The ship has been anchored 15 feet deep since 1926, when the rum runner ship faced wreckage during a hurricane, making it an excellent place for your imagination to run free.

The dreamiest tropical getaway and only resort in Bimini is Resorts World Bimini—an oceanfront complex that boasts an incredible spa, casino, marina, two outdoor pools, an adults-only rooftop bar, and a new private beach.

Explore the Magic of St. Lucia’s Underwater Phenomenon

Voted on the top diving suits in the Caribbean, the Anse Chastanet Reef, located in the heart of St. Lucia’s world-renowned Marine Park, is home to more than 150 species of fish and dramatic slopes that plunge below 140 ft.

The magic of St. Lucia’s oceans comes to life each August when a kaleidoscope of colours surfaces during the island’s annual coral spawning. Hues of yellow, pink and blue shine bright after sunset, making this natural phenomenon perfect for a night dive—like the Northern Lights of the sea!

Stay at Anse Chastanet Resort which overlooks the stunning Soufriere Bay and features 49 uniquely decorated rooms surrounded by views of the majestic Pitons—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dive in Curaçao

Home to 65 dive sites, Curaçao is the ultimate diving haven offering the chance to experience shipwrecks, underwater caves, vibrant corals and marine life.

Between the dive sites and cove-like beaches, there’s always something new to discover below Curaçao’s waters. Avila Beach Hotel, the oldest hotel on the island, is a uniquely central yet beachfront oasis offering guests the perfect setting for exploring Curaçao’s underwater world.

Swim, Explore and Discover the Island of South Andros

A hidden gem aptly nicknamed ‘The Sleeping Giant,’ the uncrowded paradise of South Andros boasts over 200 blue holes, ocean caves with depths yet to be recorded, and cave formations such as stalagmites and stalactites.

South Andros is also home to the world’s third-largest barrier reef, which itself is home to a wide variety of marine life, including over 164 species of fish and coral.

Escape to luxury at Caerula Mar Club, the island of South Andros’ first-ever luxury resort. Designed by HGTV stars Sarah and Bryan Baeumler, the resort has five private villas and 18 suites, as well as exceptional dining options.

Caerula Mar Club sits on 10 acres of beach with its own private boat, making exploring the island’s surrounding blue holes and barrier reef a breeze.

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