Underwater paradise, natural wonder, rainforest of the ocean - just a few ways to describe the vivid, delicate, beautiful coral reefs that dot our planet hidden beneath the surface of the oceans.
Like rainforest, coral reefs host an amazing biodiversity and are now facing a serious threat to their very existence as tourism trips help people explore them. If you love to dive or snorkel, strap on your mask and fins and explore these magical ecosystems carefully and respectfully. Here are 5 incredible coral reefs to visit around the world…
Namena Marine Reserve, Fiji
Sometimes referred to as the soft coral capital of the world, the Namina Marine Reserve in Fiji is the ultimate underwater playground. Vertical reef walls plummet hundreds of metres below the surface and there are mangroves and grass sea beds to explore. Namena has an abundance of marine life and divers can share the warm tropical waters with bottle-nosed dolphins, sperm whales, pilot whales and turtles.
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The largest coral reef ecosystem in the world, the Great Barrier Reef stretches for over 1,800 miles and comprises a staggering 2,900 or so individual reefs. It’s so immense, in fact, that it is the only living thing on earth which can be seen from space. Home to more than 1,500 species of tropical fish, it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Snorkelers can enjoy the profusion of colourful marine life in the shallows of the inner reef, while divers might prefer the deeper water and dazzling reef formations of the outer reef.
Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Belize is home to the second largest barrier reef system in the world. Crystal clear waters shelter vivid, multicoloured coral reef stretching for 180 miles off the coast. Here you’ll find over 300 different species of fish and some incredible reef formations. The most famous of these is the incredible Blue Hole, a perfect dark circle in a sea of turquoise. Plunging to a depth of 125 metres, it’s a popular dive site where you’ll be sharing the depths with black tip sharks, nurse sharks and hammerheads – if you’re brave enough!
Raja Ampats, Indonesia
Remote and relatively unexplored, the reefs off Raja Ampats are in pristine condition and the riot of colour that unravels under the surface is dazzling. The diversity of marine life found here is one of the highest on the planet, with an incredible 600 species of hard coral and 1,200 species of fish.
Palancar Reef, Mexico
Located off the coast of Cozumel, an island in Mexico’s Yucatan region, the spellbinding colours and easy access attract divers from all over the world. It’s part of the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park and is home to all sorts of exotic marine life including barracuda, parrot fish, angel fish, nurse sharks and sea turtles.
Exploring coral reefs carefully
The Coral Reef Alliance works to protect coral reefs and inform visitors, divers and snorkellers how to enjoy these precious habitats without harming the ecosystem. There are a few golden rules to follow whilst you're exploring any coral reef. Rememeber these, and you'll be helping to ensure these living corals remain intact for everyone to enjoy:
- Do not disturb or harass marine life
- Do not remove marine life from its natural habitat or shells
- Do not step on or touch coral
- Do not stir up sediment near coral
Surf or dive your way round the world
If the ocean is your playground and you’re interested in more diving or perhaps surfing – you might like these round the world itineraries. If you want to book a trip like any of these, just contact Chris.
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