From turtles and orcas to dolphins and sharks, many divers aspire to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural environments. Here’s an overview of some of the world’s premier spots for divers eager to see these extraordinary species.
Loggerhead Sea Turtles – Moreton Island, Australia
The Pacific coast offers exceptional diving experiences. Snorkelers can explore the Whitsunday Islands through Airlie Beach tours and meet the famous fish, Elvis. Divers, meanwhile, can swim alongside loggerhead sea turtles off Moreton Island. Together with Fraser Island, Moreton forms the largest sand structure globally, yet it remains relatively undiscovered, overshadowed by the more popular Fraser Island.
Sea Lions – Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos archipelago is a haven for nature enthusiasts due to its rich biodiversity, boasting around 2,909 marine species, 18% of which are endemic. Divers can expect an unforgettable experience here. Besides the iconic marine iguanas, more adventurous divers can find sea lions, silky sharks, spotted eagle rays, manta rays, and sperm whales.
Beluga Whales – The White Sea, Russia
Divers need not limit themselves to warm waters. Northeast of Saint Petersburg, the White Sea offers the unique sight of beluga whales, recognizable by their melon-shaped heads. These curious whales often poke their heads out of the water to observe their surroundings. However, they migrate to warmer waters in the summer.
Orcas – Lofoten Islands, Norway
Killer whales, or orcas, often misperceived as dangerous, can be safely approached by divers in the natural habitat around Norway’s Lofoten Islands. Whale watchers can embark on expeditions from November to February but should avoid scuba tanks as bubbles can startle the whales. Organized night dives are available, providing a profound experience.
Blue Sharks – The Azores, Portugal
Adventurous and skilled divers can seek blue sharks in the waters around the Azores. While this species does not typically hunt humans, specific safety rules must be followed. For a more relaxed dive, the Azores offer one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries, where sightings of toothed whales and sei whales are common.
Whale Sharks – The Maldives
Divers can encounter the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, in the Maldives or Zanzibar. This endangered species is harmless to humans and can be observed in the wild, provided the rules protecting them are followed. Divers should visit lagoons and estuaries where whale sharks feed on shrimp, plankton, and anchovies.
Humpback Whales – Zanzibar, Tanzania
Tanzania is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs. Divers can also spot humpback whales during their migration in August and September, alongside dolphins that accompany the diving boats.
Hammerhead Sharks – French Polynesia
French Polynesia hosts various shark species, including the blacktip reef shark, whitetip reef shark, and lemon shark. The hammerhead shark is a highlight, best seen between November and March. Divers must go about 15 meters deep to see them, though these sharks usually dwell at around 50 meters and may ascend if prey is nearby. They are generally not dangerous to humans, but caution is advised.