The underwater world captivates with its diversity, revealing a different face depending on the destination. Falstaff TRAVEL presents a selection of the most beautiful snorkelling and diving spots, where every dive becomes an unforgettable experience.
Around two thirds of our planet are covered by the ocean, home to a world that remains, in many ways, largely unexplored. It is no wonder that this inspires both fascination and the desire to discover the oceans and their colourful inhabitants. For those who quickly tire of a beach holiday and have obtaining a diving licence on their bucket list, travelling to a diving destination offers the perfect alternative.
For many, diving or snorkelling in Australia immediately brings to mind the world-famous Great Barrier Reef—and with good reason. It is considered the largest coral reef system on Earth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to a vast number of rare species. In particular, the northern Ribbon Reef and Osprey Reef, both part of the Great Barrier Reef, are popular among divers for their remarkable diversity.
Yet Australia offers many other locations that provide ideal conditions for unforgettable dives. In Western Australia, the Ningaloo Marine Park, including the Ningaloo Reef—also a UNESCO World Heritage Site—stretches for around 260 kilometres of crystal-clear water. Here, numerous marine species such as manta rays and humpback whales can be observed. A special highlight: nowhere else in the world do as many whale sharks gather as here. Anyone wishing to encounter these gentle giants up close should not miss this destination.
The waters surrounding Kangaroo Island, off the coast of Adelaide, are also well worth exploring. Among the most temperate in Australia, they are home to an abundance of corals, sponges, and colourful fish. The unique leafy sea dragon—also known as the “leafy seadragon”—as well as sea lions, can also be found here.
You don’t have to travel to the other side of the world to experience extraordinary underwater landscapes. Just a few hours’ flight away, Egypt offers one of the most fascinating diving regions.
Established destinations such as Hurghada or Sharm El-Sheikh provide ideal conditions, particularly for beginners, thanks to the high density of diving schools. In addition, many resorts feature impressive house reefs directly offshore, making them perfect for snorkelling and first dives.
Those seeking adventure will find largely untouched coral landscapes in the south of the country, for example around Marsa Alam. Alternatively, diving safaris take you further out to sea, where spectacular wrecks can be explored. These include the SS Thistlegorm, a British cargo ship sunk during the Second World War, the Dunraven wreck, and the famous Abu Nuhas reef, where several shipwrecks await discovery.
White, palm-fringed beaches, outstanding cuisine, and vibrant rainforests teeming with life—Indonesia, with destinations such as Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands, is a true haven for relaxation seekers and honeymooners. Yet its underwater world is equally impressive.
Regions such as Raja Ampat in West Papua are home to more marine life than almost anywhere else on Earth and are often described as the “crown of creation underwater.” The Komodo National Park also offers a spectacular underwater landscape. Due to its strong currents, it is particularly suited to experienced divers. Those who dive here are highly likely to encounter manta rays, which are especially drawn to the area.
For beginners, the region around Wakatobi provides ideal conditions, with calm waters perfect for exploring the underwater world with the whole family.
A Caribbean holiday atmosphere comes almost naturally: crystal-clear waters, powdery white beaches, and an incomparable sense of ease. Yet not only above, but also below the surface, an impressive world unfolds—especially around the so-called ABC Islands: Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao.
With pleasantly warm temperatures and visibility of up to 30 metres, conditions here are ideal for relaxed snorkelling and diving. Bonaire, in particular, is considered a true paradise for underwater enthusiasts. Strict marine conservation regulations preserve its remarkable biodiversity and ensure exceptionally clear waters. With more than 80 dive sites and several fascinating wrecks, the island ranks among the Caribbean’s most renowned diving destinations.
Curaçao also offers a wide range of impressive dive sites. In small, sheltered bays, encounters with sea turtles are not uncommon, as they are often attracted by the remains of fishing boats—a moment that makes swimming with these graceful creatures truly unforgettable. A particular highlight is the nearby uninhabited island of Klein Curaçao, which is ideal for a day trip and known for its excellent snorkelling spots.
