Adrenaline junkies from around the world will always be magnetized by underwater havens. There are few other activities that are more exciting than hooking yourself up with an oxygen tank and plunging over the side of your dive boat as you descend into the deep blue below. It’s an awe-inspiring rush to swim with a school of barracuda or to float gently past a turtle that is so much larger than you.
If you’re ready to embark on an underwater adventure, and gain a phenomenal workout in the process, check out these three amazing dive sites.
Richelieu Rock
Richelieu Rock, or Hin Plo Naam as it’s known locally, is undoubtedly among the best dive sites on our planet, and there’s no argument that it represents the ultimate dive site in all of Thailand. It’s famed for whale shark sightings, albeit, the opportunities for seeing one are not always available.
The best time to dive to see a whale shark in the vicinity is from February through May. But even if you come away devoid of that particular experience, there’s still so much more to be witnessed.
Among the remaining highlights are the giant trevallies, the barracuda, and dogtooth tuna. There are manta rays, tiger tail sea horses, harlequin shrimp, pipefish, and the variety of nudibranch species abound in these waters.
Richelieu Rock dive site is vast in size and it’s recommended to be prepared to do at least two dives to explore the area with any level of thoroughness. Nevertheless, it can also pose for a challenge, given that it is open water and the currents are occasionally strong.
Visibility may be reduced with a high density of plankton. But it’s the plankton that are responsible for attracting the whale sharks and manta rays to the locale.
The best way to venture into this amazing dive spot is via liveboard, though it is possible to visit on a day trip either from Khao Lak or Phuket. Richelieu Rock is situated just off the Similan Islands, and to the south east of Surin.
Best time to arrive: From mid-October through mid-May. Otherwise, the marine park remains closed to the public. Recommended liveboards company: http://www.khaolakexplorer.com
Wreck of the USS Liberty – Bali
The USS Liberty wreck is indisputably the best and most famed dive site in Bali. It also represents one of the most fascinating wrecks in the world, at least in terms of a diving experience. The ship, which was originally launched in 1918 and designated to the Naval Overseas Transportation Service, was torpedoed during the Second World War in 1942 by a Japanese submarine. After which, it beached on the shore near Tulamben.
Nevertheless, the eruption of Mount Agung in 1963 witnessed the vessel slipping off the beach, and it now rests on a sand slope which stretches between nine and thirty meters below the water’s surface. The wreck spans some 130 meters in length, whereby the shallowest aspect is at around five meters of water while the deepest projection of the ship’s body lies at 30 meters.
It’s prudent to arrive at the dive spot either early in the morning or later in the afternoon by virtue of the fact that the site becomes particularly busy. However, the USS Liberty also makes for an extremely thrilling locale for a night dive.
Access to the vessel is particularly easy as it’s from the shore, and there is no limitation on the time of year in which to dive.
Barracuda Point – Sipadan Islands, Malaysia
Barracuda Point is Malaysia’s best diving spot, and irrefutably one of the top five dives in the world. The name hails from the thousands of barracuda that frequently arrive here, whereby they join in a shoal to formulate a tornado.
There are also a mass of sea turtles, bumphead parrotfish, and reef sharks that patrol the area searching for their next meal. Occasionally, hammerhead sharks arrive, so do be wary since hammerhead sharks are renowned for their aggressive tactics.
The site comprises a steep wall that descends into the blue by around 22 meters. There are also a number of coral gardens so there is plenty for the avid diver to appreciate.
Access is achieved from the shore, and again, there is no limitation to timing as the site is attractive all-year-round.