Here at Aquaviews, we always say, “Any dive is a good dive!” Seriously, any time you get to strap on a tank and go have a look around below the surface is a cut above anything else you might ordinarily do that day, whether you really see much of anything or not. But for those who are looking for a dive experience that cannot be had anywhere else in the world, these 5 unusual places to dive are at the top of the list.
Underwater Art Museum – Cancun National Marine Park, Mexico
Located in the blue, shallow waters off Isla de Mujeres, this unusual dive site is a combination of art museum and living reef. Created in 2009, MUSA (El Museo Subaquatica del Arte) features hundreds of interesting sculptures by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, many cast from molds of real people. Made from pH-neutral clay that actually promotes the growth of corals, the sculptures are beginning to flourish with coral and sponges, attracting both divers and fish alike. It has been described as a surreal experience to see these life-like people and settings in such a foreign place.
Conception Bay – Newfoundland, Canada
As if diving among glaciers was not unusual enough, Conception Bay also offers some of the best wreck diving and whale-sighting in the world. The frigid water in the bay has preserved its wrecks in near pristine condition, while also serving as migration grounds for several species of whale, including humpback, beluga, and minke whales, as well as the elusive unicorn-tusked narwhal.
Green Lake – Austria
Created every year by snowmelt from the Hochschwab Mountains, this lake boasts underwater meadows in amazingly clear emerald water. During the warmer months the snowmelt from the nearby mountains adds nearly ten meters to the lake’s depth, flooding the surrounding meadowlands and creating an unmatched diving experience.
Homestead Crater – Utah
Although void of wildlife, the Homestead Crater offers an almost surreal dive experience. Fed by thermal springs, this site on the eastern side of the Wasatch Mountains is part hot springs and part cave diving. The 96-degree water is lit by underwater lights, partially illuminating the cave’s limestone walls and geological formations. There are also odd trinkets placed in the cave, including a wagon wheel and plastic animals.
Barracuda Lake – Philippines
Named for a barracuda seen patrolling its waters, this unusual dive site is situated in a volcanic crater ringed by limestone cliffs. Although there is some trekking and labor involved in getting to the site, the lake’s visible, thermic layers of the water, WWII shipwrecks, and aquatic life make it a worthwhile journey.
