The World Down Under: 16 of the Top Underwater Experiences from Around the World
From vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life to mysterious shipwrecks hiding tales of the past, the underwater world offers a wealth of mesmerizing experiences, perfect for memorable incentive trips and rewarding top-performing employees. Whether you're a seasoned diver or simply curious about what lies beneath the surface, here are some of the top underwater experiences from around the world that promise to captivate and inspire …
Anguilla: The Wrecks of Dog Island
Dive beneath the azure waters surrounding Anguilla to discover the sunken treasures of Dog Island. Explore the remnants of shipwrecks dating back centuries, where colourful coral formations now adorn the hulls of these underwater relics.
Incentive ideas: Organise a team-building treasure hunt around the shipwrecks, where participants can search for hidden artifacts and solve underwater puzzles. Otherwise, why not host a sunset cocktail reception on a catamaran overlooking the dive sites for a memorable networking opportunity.
For incentives in Anguilla, check out Zemi Beach House
Canada: Fathom Five National Marine Park
Immerse yourself in the underwater wonders of Canada's Fathom Five National Marine Park. Located in Lake Huron, this marine park boasts crystal-clear waters and a network of shipwrecks, making it a haven for divers seeking to explore maritime history beneath the surface.
Incentive ideas: Charter a private yacht for an exclusive diving excursion to explore the shipwrecks and underwater caves. After the dive, host a gourmet seafood dinner on board, complete with local delicacies and stunning sunset views.
For group enquiries in Canada, please contact Destination Canada
Colombia: Rosario Islands
Embark on a snorkelling adventure in the turquoise waters of the Rosario Islands off the coast of Colombia. Swim among vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish and keep an eye out for sea turtles and rays gliding gracefully through the underwater landscape.
Incentive ideas: Plan a beachside barbecue on one of the uninhabited islands, complete with live music and traditional Colombian cuisine. Incorporate snorkelling lessons into the itinerary for novice participants to experience the beauty of the underwater world.
For group enquiries in Colombia, please contact Colombia57
Croatia: Blue Cave, Vis Island
Delve into the mesmerising Blue Cave on Vis Island, Croatia, where sunlight refracts through an underwater entrance, casting an ethereal blue glow within. Snorkellers and divers can marvel at the cave's stunning azure hues and intricate rock formations.
Incentive ideas: Host an exclusive cocktail reception inside the Blue Cave, illuminated by underwater LED lights for a magical ambiance. Arrange a private boat tour of the surrounding islands, with stops for swimming and snorkelling in secluded coves.
For incentives in Croatia, why not check out Sun Gardens Dubrovnik and D Resort Šibenik
Egypt: Ras Mohammed National Park
Discover the underwater wonders of Ras Mohammed National Park in Egypt, home to some of the Red Sea's most pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. Dive alongside colourful reef fish, vibrant corals, and even the occasional reef shark.
Incentive ideas: Organise a guided snorkelling safari to explore the park's renowned dive sites, accompanied by marine biologists who can provide insights into the local ecosystem. Arrange a traditional Egyptian dinner on a private beach, with Bedouin-style seating and entertainment.
For group enquiries in Egypt, please contact Abercrombie & Kent Egypt and Galaxia MICE
Greece: Navagio Beach, Zakynthos
Explore the submerged shipwreck off the coast of Navagio Beach on the Greek island of Zakynthos. Snorkellers can glide above the sunken vessel, which rests in crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, creating a truly surreal underwater landscape.
Incentive ideas: Arrange a private yacht charter for a day of sailing along the coastline, with stops for swimming and snorkelling at Navagio Beach and nearby caves. Host a sunset champagne toast on deck, with views of the iconic shipwreck as a backdrop.
For group enquiries in Greece, please contact Horizon Travel
Malta: Blue Hole, Gozo
Plunge into the depths of the Blue Hole off the coast of Gozo, Malta. This natural rock formation boasts an underwater arch and an abundance of marine life, including colourful reef fish and octopus, making it a popular spot for divers and snorkellers alike.
Incentive ideas: Organise a scuba diving expedition to explore the underwater caves and tunnels surrounding the Blue Hole, with certified instructors leading the way. Host a beachside barbecue at Dwejra Bay, with local Maltese cuisine and live music for an authentic cultural experience.
For group enquiries in Malta, please contact Visit Malta
Mauritius: Blue Bay Marine Park
Explore the underwater wonders of Blue Bay Marine Park in Mauritius, home to a stunning coral reef teeming with marine biodiversity. Dive or snorkel among vibrant coral gardens, where you may encounter reef sharks, sea turtles, and schools of tropical fish.
Incentive ideas: Charter a glass-bottom boat for a guided tour of the marine park, allowing participants to observe the colourful coral reefs and marine life without getting wet. Host a traditional Mauritian dinner on a private beach, with sega dancers and fire performers for entertainment.
For incentives in Mauritius, why not check out Constance Hotels, Resorts and Golf
Mexico: Cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula
Descend into the mystical cenotes of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, ancient underwater sinkholes revered by the Mayans as sacred portals to the underworld. Swim in crystal-clear freshwater pools and explore intricate limestone caverns adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.
Incentive ideas: Plan a cenote diving excursion with guided tours of the underwater caves and caverns. Arrange a traditional Mexican fiesta at a nearby hacienda, with mariachi music, folk dancing, and a feast of authentic Mexican cuisine.
For group enquiries in Mexico, please contact: Amstar DMC
Portugal: Berlengas Archipelago
Dive into the pristine waters surrounding the Berlengas Archipelago off the coast of Portugal. This protected marine reserve offers a wealth of underwater biodiversity, including colourful coral reefs, underwater caves, and a variety of marine species.
Incentive ideas: Organise a snorkelling safari to explore the archipelago's diverse marine habitats, with opportunities to swim with dolphins and encounter rare seabirds. Host a seafood feast at a local seaside restaurant, featuring fresh-caught seafood and Portuguese wines.
For group enquiries in Portugal, please contact: TempoVip, VOQIN and Fab Travel Portugal
Saint Martin: Tintamarre Island
Snorkel in the crystalline waters surrounding Tintamarre Island, a secluded paradise located off the coast of Saint Martin. Swim alongside sea turtles and rays, explore vibrant coral reefs, and relax on pristine white-sand beaches.
Incentive ideas: Arrange a catamaran cruise to Tintamarre Island, with stops for snorkelling, swimming, and beachcombing along the way. Host a beachside barbecue on the island, with freshly grilled seafood and Caribbean cocktails served under swaying palm trees.
For incentives in Saint Martin, why not check out La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel St Martin
Seychelles: Aldabra Atoll
Journey to the remote Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. Dive among manta rays, reef sharks, and giant tortoises in this untouched underwater paradise.
Incentive ideas: Charter a luxury yacht for a week-long expedition to the Aldabra Atoll, with opportunities for diving, snorkelling, and wildlife viewing. Host a sunset cocktail reception on deck, with panoramic views of the atoll's shimmering lagoon.
For incentives in the Seychelles, why not check out Waldorf Astoria Platte Island and Mango House, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Sri Lanka: Pigeon Island National Park
Dive into the azure waters of Pigeon Island National Park in Sri Lanka, home to vibrant coral reefs and an array of marine species. Snorkellers and divers can explore colourful coral gardens and encounter reef fish, sea turtles, and even blacktip reef sharks.
Incentive ideas: Plan a guided snorkelling tour of Pigeon Island National Park, with opportunities to explore the park's diverse marine habitats and observe marine life up close. Host a traditional Sri Lankan feast at a beachside resort, featuring spicy curries, fresh seafood, and tropical fruit.
For incentives in Sri Lanka, why not check out Cinnamon Life Integrated Resort
Thailand: Similan Islands
Discover the underwater wonders of the Similan Islands in Thailand, an archipelago renowned for its clear waters and spectacular coral reefs. Dive among vibrant coral gardens, underwater pinnacles, and diverse marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays.
Incentive ideas: Organise a liveaboard diving safari to the Similan Islands, with multiple dives at different dive sites throughout the archipelago. Host a beachfront barbecue on one of the uninhabited islands, with traditional Thai cuisine and fire dancers for entertainment.
For group enquiries in Thailand and across Asia, please contact: Destination Asia
United Arab Emirates: Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Immerse yourself in the underwater world at the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, located within the Dubai Mall. Walk through a transparent tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and other marine creatures, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into life beneath the waves.
Incentive ideas: Arrange a private after-hours tour of the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo for exclusive access to the exhibits and behind-the-scenes experiences. Host a cocktail reception in the underwater tunnel, with ambient lighting and underwater acrobats for a truly unforgettable evening.
For group enquiries in the UAE, please contact: 2xceed, Pure Arabia and Arabian Adventures
United States: Florida Keys
Dive into the vibrant coral reefs of the Florida Keys, a chain of tropical islands off the southern coast of Florida. Explore underwater ecosystems teeming with colourful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations, making it a paradise for snorkellers and divers alike.
Incentive ideas: Charter a private yacht for a day of snorkelling and diving adventures in the Florida Keys, with stops at popular dive sites like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Host a beachfront luau on one of the secluded islands, with live music, beach games, and a traditional pig roast for a taste of island life.
For group enquiries in the USA, please contact Excursionist