Dreaming of dipping your fins into the water? The ‘Cast Off’ section offers you a selection of ideal destinations, each issue with a new theme! Some of these isolated islands require a certain effort to access, but the adventures are often worth it. Indeed, you can discover incredible sites with preserved marine ecosystems and encounter endemic species, surrounded by very few divers. Here are three main destinations: Christmas Island near Indonesia, Vava’u in Tonga, and Big Island in Hawaii.
1. The astonishing: Christmas Island, realm of red crabs
Nestled over 300 km south of Indonesia, Christmas Island is an Australian external territory offering a world-unique spectacle. Every year, millions of red crabs (Gecarcoidea natalis) migrate from inland to breed in the sea, attracting a rich and diverse marine fauna. From October to December, prepare to observe whale sharks and manta rays drawn to this exceptional natural feast.
Unforgettable dives
The volcanic island also offers incredible diving sites, where you can explore coral reefs, walls teeming with marine life, and caves illuminated by fascinating light plays. You’ll have the chance to dive on around forty sites, discovering an abundance of healthy corals (brain, acropora tables, soft corals) as well as a variety of reef fish and pelagics like tuna, barracuda, turtles, and dolphins. For an even more enriching experience, consider drift diving and exploring the wreck of the Eisevold, a Norwegian ship sunk during World War II, lying between 5 and 18 meters deep.
Land discovery
Beyond the sea, the terrestrial spectacle is just as captivating. During the red crab migration, millions of them cross the island during the cooler hours. Roads are closed to protect them, and the 2,000 inhabitants adapt to their life rhythm. Nearly 60% of the island is classified as a national park, allowing hikes through lush tropical forests while observing avian wildlife and other endemic species.
Practical
- Time difference : +12 hours in summer, +13 hours in winter.
- Water temperature : between 26 °C and 29 °C year-round.
- Ideal season : October to December.
- Equipment : 3 mm wetsuit.
- Diving level : beginner to advanced.
- Cost of a dive : about 130 €.
- Travel organizers : Ultramarina.
2. The lesser-known: Vava’u, gem of Tonga
Located near Fiji, the Tonga Islands form a discreet Polynesian archipelago full of rich underwater depths. To dive, head to the Vava’u archipelago, north of Tonga. Few divers actually go there, so you will enjoy a peaceful and immersive experience in exceptional biodiversity.
Image © blue soul
Unrivaled dives
Soft corals sway under the currents at all the dive sites. Explore tunnels, caves, and pinnacles covered with diverse corals and beautiful gorgonians. Diving conditions are optimal, with warm waters and incredible visibility. From July to October, humpback whales come to give birth, and it’s even possible to swim with them in snorkeling, while respecting strict protection rules.
You will also encounter eagle rays, turtles, reef sharks, triggerfish, and many other fascinating species, like nudibranchs and pygmy seahorses. Don’t miss diving on the Clan McWilliams wreck, a richly fish-populated site lying 22 meters deep since 1927.
Above the water
Vava’u consists of a large main island and about 60 islands and islets, perfect for water sports like kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding. Explore the picturesque Neiafu bay, climb Mount Talau for a breathtaking panorama, and visit the neighboring island of Pangaimotu, accessible via a bridge, to enjoy its idyllic beaches.
Image © Heather Goodman
Practical
- Time difference : -12 hours in winter, -11 hours in summer.
- Water temperature : 24 °C on average from June to September, 29 °C from October to May.
- Ideal season : April to November.
- Equipment : 3 mm wetsuit.
- Diving level : beginner to advanced.
- Budget : 7-night stay including flights and 5 whale outings, starting from 8,000 €.
- Travel organizers : H2O Voyage, Ultramarina, Oceanes.
3. The popular: Big Island, authentic Hawaii
Although rarely chosen by French divers, Big Island is a favorite destination for Americans. This island, the largest in Hawaii, offers unparalleled diving experiences. Its Kilauea volcano, still active, has shaped the island and its marine heritage and constitutes a true diver’s paradise.
Image © Kirk Lee Header
Memorable dives
Here, explore crevices, tunnels, canyons, and lava arches lined with corals. From November to April, humpback whales come to give birth in Big Island’s waters, offering breathtaking shows visible from boats. Underwater, be ready to spot sharks, nudibranchs, octopuses, eels, and a multitude of reef fish. Eagle rays and turtles are also visible during snorkeling trips near the coasts. Big Island is renowned for its night dives with manta rays and its fascinating ‘blackwater’ phenomenon where zooplankton rises from the depths after sunset.
Beyond diving
Also dive into the unique culture blending rich Polynesian and American traditions. Don’t miss visiting coffee and cacao plantations, and embark on adventures on the volcano, transitioning from lush forests to lunar landscapes of black lava.
Practical
- Time difference : -12 hours in summer, -11 hours in winter.
- Water temperature : 24 °C from December to May, and 27 °C from June to November.
- Ideal season : year-round, from June to October for the best underwater conditions and from November to April to watch whales.
- Equipment : 3 to 5 mm wetsuit.
- Diving level : beginner to advanced.
- Budget : Liveaboard cruise aboard the Safari Explorer Hawaii for 7 nights, starting from 4,758 €, including full board and dives.
- Travel organizers : Ultramarina, Oceanes.
Pro’s choice
An expedition to Malpelo Island
Christophe, from Abyssworld agency, offers you an adventure in Colombia. Malpelo, an underwater mountain, is unique and known for its schools of hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and much more. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this excursion allows you to dive with seasoned professionals.
Learn more : 10-night cruise, with 20 guided dives by Sandra Bessudo, starting from 8,180 €. Abyssworld
A cruise in Indonesia
Isabelle, from SeaCrush agency, takes you to the Banda Sea, a place known for its exceptional biodiversity. Accessible in spring and autumn, this cruise is conducted in a small group and guarantees memorable dives.
Learn more : Cruise starting from 5,885 € for 11 nights and 33 dives, full board. Contact: hello@SeaCrush.com
GPS coordinates
- Christmas Island : 10°29′28″S – 105°37′01″E
- Tonga : 18°37’23”S – 174°00’07”W
- Hawai’i : 19°35’22”N – 155°26’55”W
- Colombia : 04°00’11”N – 081°36’29”W
- Indonesia : 04°35’00”S – 129°55’00”E
Prepare your fins and set off to discover these distant islands, where unforgettable diving experiences await you!
This article, initially written by Margot Harty for our print edition, has been adapted for the web.