Cast off: 3 incredible diving destinations for 2025
Are you already dreaming of getting your fins back in the water? The ‘Cast Off’ section invites you to discover three unique diving destinations that promise adventure, wonder, and comfort, perfect for planning your next underwater year. Head north among the ice and creatures of the White Sea, explore a lost volcano on Easter Island, or enjoy a comfortable cruise in the turquoise waters of the British Virgin Islands… The choice is yours!
1. Polar Experience: Thrilling dives in the White Sea
At the edge of the Arctic Circle
For adventurous souls seeking thrilling experiences, the White Sea, northeast of Saint Petersburg, near the Finnish border, offers unforgettable ice diving. The adventure begins upon arrival, after a journey through pristine landscapes and a snowmobile ride to the dive site. There, before entering the water, you’ll need to help open the hole in the ice – the ‘maina’ – which will warm you up before diving in!
A world of life beneath the ice
Contrary to what one might imagine, life beneath the ice is abundant. Belugas, anemones, colorful nudibranchs, soft corals, sponges, starfish and sea angels, and various crustaceans thrive in waters where light, filtered by thick ice, offers fascinating emerald hues. In this frozen world, the silence and raw beauty create an extraordinary atmosphere.
After the dive: Nordic warmth and discoveries
Between dives, head to a heated wooden cabin, pulled on skis to warm up and unwind, before exploring the wild nature and canyons of Panfilova Varakka Hill. Also, enjoy the traditional villages for a truly human and authentic experience.
Practical info – White Sea
- Time difference: +1 h (summer) / +2 h (winter)
- Water temperature: -1 °C to -2 °C (February to April)
- Ideal season: February to April
- Equipment: Dry suit required
- Level: PADI Ice Diver certification or equivalent
- Budget: 6 nights from 2,277 € (10 dives – flights & full board included)
- Center: The Arctic Circle, PADI Dive Centre & Lodge – en.pkrug.ru
- Trip organizer: Ultramarina
2. Rare and preserved: Diving on Easter Island
In the heart of the Pacific, the magic of Rapa Nui
Isolated nearly 3,700 km from the South American coast, Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, remains one of the best-preserved underwater sanctuaries on the planet. Tourism is strictly regulated: few divers, zero pollution, and crystal-clear waters guaranteeing up to 60 m visibility.
Underwater: biodiversity and volcanic landscapes
While you won’t encounter large ‘pelagics’, the fauna is unique: turtles, moray eels, octopuses, parrotfish, and the famous island butterflyfish (Chaetodon litus) are among the many endemic species (23% recorded). The corals, though rare, reach spectacular sizes. The volcanic scenery, composed of arches, caverns, and caves, is a paradise for exploration, as is the unmissable immersion with the sunken Moai (even if it’s a replica). With a bit of luck, you might also spot the elusive Galapagos shark (Carcharhinus galapagensis). Note, the local weather, sometimes tricky, often decides the dive schedule!
On land: archaeological mysteries and lunar landscapes
Tour the Moai: these 887 sacred statues, sometimes 8 m tall, watch over the island. The anthropological museum will tell you the fascinating history of this vanished people. End your stay with an ascent of the volcanoes, including Rano Raraku and its ‘nursery’ of unfinished Moai.
Practical info – Easter Island
- Time difference: -6 h (winter) / -8 h (summer)
- Water temperature: 24 °C (Dec. to April), 20 °C (May to Nov.)
- Ideal season: December to April
- Equipment: Recommended 5 mm wetsuit
- Level: Beginner to advanced
- Budget: 38 €/dive – Round-trip flight Paris-Easter Island from 711 €
- Organizers: Ultramarina, Oceanes
3. Caribbean warmth: Dive cruise in the British Virgin Islands
A mythical archipelago for all levels
Comprising about fifteen islands and islets, this British overseas territory, once a hideout for Blackbeard, is now a dream destination for divers of all backgrounds. Coral gardens, massive sponges, sea fans, and colorful marine life await enthusiasts: butterflyfish, turtles, eagle rays, nurse sharks, along with moray eels and octopuses.
Wreck dives and magnificent snorkeling
Wreck enthusiasts will be charmed: the Inganess Bay, the Chikuzen, or the legendary RMS Rhone, 100 m long and resting at 30 m depth, offer fascinating dives where lobsters, fish, and reef life mingle. Snorkeling enthusiasts will find delight in the natural pools created by the granite blocks of Bath National Park.
Beyond the water: nature, rum, and exceptional panoramas
Beyond the dives, enjoy the richness of national parks, visit the botanical gardens, hike Mount Sage, or stroll through rum distilleries and sugar cane plantations. A stay in the British Virgin Islands promises much more than just an underwater journey!
Practical info – British Virgin Islands
- Time difference: -6 h (summer) / -5 h (winter)
- Water temperature: 26 °C year-round
- Ideal season: November to May
- Equipment: 3 to 5 mm wetsuit
- Level: Beginner to advanced
- Budget: Cruise 7 nights from 3,440 € (flights, full board, 2-3 dives/day)
- Organizers: Ultramarina, Nature Plongée
Pro’s choice: where to dive in January and February?
Exceptional cruise in the Galapagos
Isabelle, from the SeaCrush agency, recommends a diving cruise in the Galapagos, where last-minute trips at attractive rates are now possible. The January-February season offers incredible visibility and the presence of numerous oceanic manta rays. The legendary sites of Darwin’s Arch and Wolf Island allow you to admire schools of hammerhead sharks. Did you know that over 20% of marine life is endemic here, such as the famous marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus)?
Learn more: 7-night cruise, 18 dives, flights, and full board included starting at 4,200 €. www.SeaCrush.com
Diving trip in Tanzania: Mafia Island
Gérard, from the Ultramarina agency, offers a timeless stay on Mafia Island, where, as the local saying goes, one lives ‘pole pole’ (« slowly, slowly » in Swahili). In addition to its waters teeming with over 400 species, it’s the perfect place to encounter the majestic whale shark… A stay on Mafia easily combines with a getaway to Pemba, Zanzibar, or a safari on the mainland.
Learn more: 7-night stay, 8 dives, flights, and full board included from 2,120 €. www.ultramarina.com
This article, originally written by Margot Harty for the print edition of DIVE!, was adapted for the web.