Blogs
‘Simply the Best’ – a shark lover’s dream!!!
After joining Scuba Travel for a “Simply the Best” itinerary in the Red Sea, I’ve been debating how to break down my blogs and how to deliver them. Then I thought, why not deliver them as the name suggests? A “Simply the Best” itinerary showcases the best of the offshore reefs (Daedalus, Brothers and Elphinstone) and the intensity they bring, coupled with the more relaxing quintessential sandy bottom, coral pinnacles and stunning reefs the Red Sea is famous for. On that note, I want to take you on a journey first with the stunning offshore reefs and the adventure they brought – specifically, the shark madness that ensued – before finishing with a more relaxing journey through the coral reefs along the coast.
I’m a shark lover, there’s no doubt about that. I’ve been fortunate to knowingly share the water with 24 different species of shark. It took me a while to finally see oceanic whitetip sharks in the water, but I finally got my chance on a trip 2 years ago. They instantly became one of my favourite sharks and I was definitely longing for longimanus once more. So when this trip materialised only 10 days before I was due to go, I was over the moon, especially when I saw reports of 13 different oceanics being seen the week before my trip. I was super excited and after a couple of relaxing reef dives on the Sunday, it wasn’t long before we were making our way to Brothers Islands to start our offshore adventure on the Monday.
Our first port of call was Big Brother island and diving the wreck of The Numidia, a British cargo ship that sank in 1901, on the Northern tip of the island. I first dived this wreck back in 2014 and then again in 2021. This was my third time diving the wreck and always enjoy it when I do. It’s so full of colour and life, with beautiful soft coral covering nearly every inch of it which you can see at recreational level. The wreck drops down to 90m, so someone else would have to advise me on that. I always make a habit of photographing a particular anemone with Red Sea clownfish and see the difference year by year. I’ve noticed a lot of new healthy soft coral growth around it this year, which was amazing to compare.
While the Numidia is great fun to dive, the best was yet to come. Our plan was to be dropped off at the Numidia by zodiac (Tranquility has 2 large, sturdy ribs, with a ladder for getting back on with ease). We would then make our way from North to South along the West wall, marvelling at all the life, as the anthias danced a merry dance, before surfacing at Tranquility. While nearing the end of the dive, as we drifted along the reef wall, Reda got super excited pointing up into the blue. YES!!!! Pressure off on only our first dive on the offshore reefs – our first oceanic whitetip shark and it made a beeline straight for us. Luckily I was a little shallower than some of the other divers and more into the blue. It came straight for me and I managed to get some really nice shots, while also buzzing with excitement. It made its way through the group, greeting each one of us, before carrying on down the reef towards the North and the second group following on from us. What a start!!
Sadly, the next 2 dives at Brothers didn’t hit the heights of the first. We enjoyed seeing the beautiful colours on the South Plateau at Big Brother and did have a friendly Napoleon wrasse for company for a brief moment. However, one of my dive buddies who was on air got some close up photos at around 42m. BUT…. I was on 29% Nitrox – which by the way, is included with your Scuba Travel booking – so I shallowed up a little when I realised the wrasse was too deep for me this time. Our afternoon dive was at Little Brother, which was the site of my first ever oceanic sighting underwater 2 years previously. After seeing the oceanic at Big Brother and hearing about sightings from the crew mooring up, I had big hopes for more oceanic encounters here. We started the dive on the North Plateau, a slanting plateau that extends the island underwater and slopes to 40m before dropping off. This is normally a great place for threshers, but no luck this time. However, the dancing anthias and array of hard and soft coral make this a truly beautiful place to dive, so full of colour. After some time on the plateau, we shallowed up and followed the stunning reef wall on the west side leading to the south where Tranquility was moored. Unfortunately there were no oceanics under the boat this time, but Daedalus was where we were headed for the next 2 days and prime longimanus territory.
The wind wasn’t letting up and the waves still made for an adventurous time. We got to Daedalus though and that’s all that mattered to me. Unfortunately, we weren’t the only ones either. After waking up and looking outside, I counted roughly about 16 boats moored up (some may have been hidden). This is one of the main reasons that Scuba Travel usually travel Monday to Monday for their itineraries. Guests onboard, who came in September as well, eluded to the fact they were the only boat at Daedalus then because of the Monday start to the trip avoiding others. Unfortunately, come November, the flight dates change from the UK to Hurghada and they are forced to do the more common Saturday to Saturday trips. A lot of the boats were due to leave at the end of that day though and we had another day to go.
Our first dive was to the North of the island and it was an adventure to get to on the Zodiac. Those adrenalin fuelled zodiac rides over waves always make me feel like I’m on a special mission. We were hoping to catch a glimpse of some scalloped hammerheads, as the North is the best place for them. It isn’t hammerhead season though and I wasn’t expecting too much for that reason. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any hammerheads and it was quite a challenging dive, spending most the time fighting current just looking at blue water. Not a dive to write home about but we did see our first glimpse of a Daedalus oceanic on the safety stop. A sure sign of things to come and boy did it get better.
Dive two went a little like a progressive rock song. Think ‘Stairway to Heaven’ or ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, taking you on a peaceful journey before blowing the hair off your head. We initially dropped in at ‘Anemone City’, which is exactly what the name suggests – an area from around 5 metres down to 15 metres covered in anemone coral and full of Red Sea clownfish. I was at peace watching the anemone sway in the gentle current and swell, while the clownfish danced in and out. Before we slowly drifted along the west wall, a hawksbill turtle slowly passed by, adding to the chilled adventure. I was itching to get under the boats though, the hotspot for oceanic activity. There was quite a current pushing you off from the reef at the South Plateau. It was slow at first as we hit the boats, with a couple of distant sightings of longimanus. Then, all hell broke loose; we were soon surrounded by at least 4 super curious sharks.
Reda quickly put his SMB up as we drifted away from the main boat in the current. I felt safe knowing the zodiacs were right above us the whole time and following us. The safety stop was spent with my head on a swivel, while making sure I captured this amazing spectacle. Shark after shark would boldly approach and bump into my camera, before moving on to other divers and giving them a thrill. I even had to shout and quickly push myself towards one that got a little too close to my dive buddy. He was preoccupied looking the other way towards another shark and the shark snuck up behind him. This is the reason you all stick together for some longimanus fun – it really was INTENSE!!!
Everyone got back on the zodiac beaming with excitement and giggling with joy. You could literally see the adrenalin pumping through our bodies. WHAT A DIVE!!!! We’d even drifted about 500m from the boat out to sea, so many thanks to the zodiac crew for following us and keeping us safe.
Dive 3 took us back to a relaxing place and was a lot more chilled around the South Plateau. We entered the water straight off the main boat. There was a single close pass by one oceanic at the start but nothing more than that. I got to see the friendly Napoleon wrasse that calls the South Plateau home, but he stayed a little more distant from me than others during their dives. Something about big male Napoleon wrasse and me, they never seem to come close.
I was so glad we had another day at Daedalus and as expected, most the boats left during the night and there was only 5 of us left. The day went pretty much exactly like the first, although the dive on the North side was less about looking in the blue and more time on the reef. We were rewarded with some giant morays and a super friendly hawksbill turtle that was happily feeding away on the coral, not caring one bit for the number of divers that greeted it. Before dive 2 followed the same plan as the day before, BUT was even more INTENSE! This time the group got split up into smaller groups and there was only me, Julia and dive guide Reda together. This time we had 5 sharks in view at one time (Reda thinks 6 different sharks though). It was crazy; we were being approached from all directions and they didn’t really want to let us out either. As we approached the zodiac, they would swim above us between the zodiac. It was mental, and once again the adrenalin was pumping. I LOVED IT!!!!!
The third dive followed the same plan, but we stayed closer to the reef towards the South Plateau, before moving out under the boats. This was beneficial, as I managed to get a couple of fairly close shots of a juvenile Napoleon wrasse for once. My goal though was to get some oceanic shots against the dappled light of golden hour. With the early winter sunset, this afternoon dive would work. Annoyingly though, I ran into camera trouble while trying to photograph a barracuda. After zooming in on my lens, it locked when trying to zoom back out and subsequently broke and rendered the camera unusable in the housing. The current was still ripping under the boat, but I managed to get back to the ladder to surface, and rather annoyingly with an oceanic right next to the ladder that I could not photograph. Hey Ho. One of those things and I’m sure I’ll return again one day.
The offshore reefs finished a little closer to land with one of the Red Sea’s most famous sites – Elphinstone. Close enough for day boats to visit, we decided to only do the one dive here, as it started to get quite busy and the weather still wasn’t calming down. The South Plateau is such a stunning site though and the coral around Elphinstone is breathtaking. The highlight was another super friendly Hawksbill feeding away at around 20-25 metres, completely carefree to the queue of divers that approached for a closer look or photos/video, happily munching away, causing a mess of coral in the water. The dive was early enough for the dappled light of morning and I was hoping for one more opportunity with longimanus. I waited as long as I could under the boat, but only got a brief view of a distant pass from one. A couple of jellyfish tried their best to keep me entertained in the blue but my time with the oceanics was up for now. I’ll see you soon!!
My time visiting the famous offshore reefs of the Red Sea had come to an end. The experience was everything I had hoped for and more. My goal was lots of oceanic whitetip adventures and it exceeded my expectations. It was time to return to the more relaxing reefs, sandy bottoms and coral pinnacles that are quintessential Red Sea diving. Stay tuned for my next instalment on how ‘Simply the Best’ continued to live up to the name…
For more information about diving in the Red Sea:
+44 (0)1483 411590
Looking for the ultimate destination in 2025? Malta and Gozo are two Mediterranean islands that captivate adventurers with their stunning dive sites, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Known for crystal-clear waters, beautiful underwater landscapes, and a welcoming culture, these islands are the perfect year-round destination for both divers and non-divers. From the seasoned diver to those new to the underwater world, Malta and Gozo offer something extraordinary, making them a must-visit for anyone ready to explore.
Diving in Malta & Gozo: A World-Class Experience
Repeatedly ranked among the top diving destinations globally, the Maltese Islands offer a diving experience like no other. With over 100 dive sites, a thriving underwater ecosystem, and unmatched visibility, these islands are a diver’s paradise.
Iconic Dive Sites and Wrecks
From beginners to expert divers, Malta and Gozo offer an array of dive sites that showcase the islands’ underwater wonders. Here are some highlights:
The Blue Hole in Gozo
A world-renowned dive site, this natural limestone formation is consistently ranked among the top diving destinations globally. Its dramatic underwater scenery makes it a must-visit for divers of all skill levels.
MV Karwela Wreck
A popular dive site off Gozo, this former passenger ferry lies at 40 meters and is decorated with various artifacts, making it ideal for underwater photography.
HMS Maori
Located off the coast of Valletta, this historic WWII wreck rests in shallow waters at around 14 meters, making it accessible for beginners and full of history for all.
Um El Faroud Wreck
This large Libyan oil tanker, intentionally sunk off Malta’s coast, sits at depths between 15 and 36 meters, offering both challenging penetration dives and beautiful coral growth.
Rozi Tugboat
A picturesque wreck located off Cirkewwa, Malta, where divers can explore a former tugboat at a depth of 32 meters amidst stunning marine life.
P31 Patrol Boat Wreck
This shallow, 18-meter wreck near Comino is great for beginner divers and snorkelers, with abundant fish and clear views.
Santa Maria Caves
Also around Comino, these caves offer breathtaking underwater arches, tunnels, and swim-throughs ideal for intermediate divers.
Double Arch Reef
Located off Gozo, this unique double arch formation is a highlight for advanced divers, rich in marine biodiversity.
The Inland Sea Tunnel
A unique dive where divers pass through a tunnel from an inland sea into the open Mediterranean, experiencing dramatic shifts in light and colour.
Crystal-Clear Waters and Ideal Conditions
The Mediterranean waters surrounding Malta, Gozo, and Comino are famous for their clarity, warmth, and deep azure color, offering visibility of up to 30 meters (100 feet). The archipelago’s ideal diving conditions include over 300 days of sunshine, making it possible to dive year-round. Whether it’s winter or summer, the water temperatures stay comfortably warm, making it one of the few diving destinations in the world with such consistently favourable conditions.
Diverse Diving Programs for All Levels
For those who haven’t yet experienced scuba diving, Malta offers the perfect introduction. With over 50 dive centers across the islands, divers can easily find a certified instructor, and English being an official language ensures smooth communication. For beginners, there are introductory ‘try dives’ and certified courses available, while experienced divers can explore advanced trails and unique dive spots. Even children aged 10 and up can earn their PADI certification, making it a family-friendly diving destination.
Adventure Awaits: Activities for Non-Divers
While Malta and Gozo are a diver’s dream, they also offer an impressive range of activities for non-divers. The pristine Mediterranean Sea, with its inviting coves and scenic coastlines, is ideal for a host of water sports and other outdoor activities:
Snorkeling and Swimming
For a glimpse of Malta’s underwater beauty without the dive gear, snorkeling and swimming are popular ways to enjoy the marine life just below the surface.
Kayaking and Windsurfing
Embrace the island breeze with kayaking and windsurfing—an ideal way to explore the coastline from a new perspective.
Deep-Sea Fishing and Boat Exploration
Discover hidden coves and tranquil bays by boat or experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing with a local guide.
Land Adventures
Beyond water activities, the unique topography of Malta and Gozo makes them perfect for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, trail running, and jeep safaris. Whether exploring by foot or vehicle, the stunning views of the Mediterranean are always in sight.
Malta and Gozo’s Cultural Riches: More than Just Diving
Alongside diving, Malta and Gozo offer a wealth of cultural and historical experiences, showcasing their rich history and vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle. Here are some highlights to inspire you to stay longer and fully experience what these islands have to offer.
Valletta: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
The historic city of Valletta, Malta’s capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a blend of grand baroque architecture, fortresses, and ornate churches. As you wander the streets of Valletta, explore its many landmarks, including the awe-inspiring St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a baroque masterpiece, and the Grand Harbour, with its scenic views and vibrant energy.
Discover the Megalithic Temples and Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
Malta is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the megalithic temples, some of the world’s oldest freestanding structures, and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, an ancient underground necropolis. These sites offer a glimpse into a world thousands of years old, reflecting the deep historical roots of the Maltese islands.
Culinary Delights and Warm Hospitality
Malta and Gozo are also celebrated for their cuisine, a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors with Italian, North African, and Middle Eastern influences. From fresh seafood to locally produced wines, visitors are welcomed with warm hospitality and an invitation to savor authentic flavors. The islands’ dining scene spans everything from rustic village eateries to sophisticated gourmet restaurants, ensuring that every meal is memorable.
Festivals, Friendly Locals, and LGBTQ+ Friendly
The Maltese are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, making travellers feel at home. With various cultural festivals, local feasts, and LGBTQ+ friendly spaces, Malta and Gozo truly cater to all travellers.
Why Choose Malta and Gozo in 2025?
Malta and Gozo offer the ultimate dive vacation experience, easily accessible from the UK with a short, three-hour flight. The islands boast year-round warm weather, over 300 days of sunshine, and a wide variety of accommodations that cater to every budget, from luxurious resorts and boutique hotels to charming farmhouses.
Key Reasons to Visit Malta and Gozo in 2025:
Year-Round Warm Weather
Perfect diving and sightseeing conditions await you at any time of the year.
Quick and Easy Access
Only three hours from the UK, making it an ideal short-haul destination.
Diverse Activities and Accommodations
From shore dives and boat dives to cultural and soft adventure activities, Malta and Gozo have something for everyone.
Stunning Historical Sites
With three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and countless historical landmarks, there’s much more to explore beyond the shorelines.
Alluring Culinary Experiences
Sample the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean while enjoying the warm hospitality of the Maltese people.
Dive Into Malta and Gozo in 2025!
With so much to offer, the Maltese Islands are an exceptional destination for diving and beyond. Discover spectacular reefs, mysterious wrecks, vibrant local culture, and the natural beauty of Malta and Gozo in 2025. Whether it’s the thrill of an underwater adventure, the charm of ancient streets, or the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, Malta and Gozo promise an unforgettable experience that will keep you coming back year after year.
Book your adventure today and explore more than you ever thought possible in Malta and Gozo!
Book a great value Economy plus fare with British Airways, and benefit from 1 piece of checked luggage per passenger up to 23kg.
Find cheapest fares to Malta – British Airways
You can take most items as part of your checked baggage allowance if it’s packed in a recognised kit bag and doesn’t exceed the maximum size and weight for checked baggage.
Find out more about travelling on British Airways flights and carrying your sports equipment here:
Flying with sports equipment | Information | British Airways
Find out more about diving in Malta and Gozo at www.visitmalta.com/en/diving-in-malta.
Are you just getting started out in underwater photography or are you a seasoned shooter who wants to take their images to the next level? Whatever you experience or ability, here’s an overview of underwater photography workshops.
What is an Underwater Photography Workshop?
The first thing to note is that this is not ‘school’! There are no compulsory classes and at workshops you are free to pick and choose what you take part in, or otherwise.
A huge part of learning and developing your skills is through experimentation, trial and error, responding to feedback, and honing your technique. Underwater photography workshops provide you with the perfect platform for practice and improvement.
There is no better alternative to hands on experience in an environment that is 100% dedicated to your development. Reading informative articles and watching videos on YouTube can never replace the value of one on one time with your camera rig, underwater!
Underwater photography workshops are generally structured around core components, namely: presentations, underwater practice, feedback and critique sessions, troubleshooting/one-on-one sessions, and technical support.
Other components of a workshop include dining, relaxing, and time for socializing too!
What Topics do Underwater Photography Workshops Cover?
Depending on the pro, the type of workshop and regional diving highlights, a wide range of topics may be covered from composition and lighting through to shooting techniques and editing.
Benefits of an Underwater Photography Workshop
- Improve Your underwater photography
- Learn from professionals
- Learn from other participants
- Expand your photography knowledge and understanding
- Try put new techniques
- Learn how to maximize your camera rig
- Phenomenal travel opportunities
- Memorable experience and new friendships
Underwater Photography Workshops in the Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
When it comes to underwater photography workshops that focus on shooting macro, muck diving, and unusual marine species, there can be no better destination on the planet than the Lembeh Strait.
The Critter Capital of the World, a Muck Diving Mecca, and the Twilight Zone are just a few of the names that have been given to this stretch of water over the years due to its high density, and diversity, of rare and unusual marine life.
Some of Lembeh’s most iconic species include the hairy frogfish, Pontohi pygmy seahorse, the Lembeh sea dragon, Mandarin fish, Bobbit worms, Rhinopias scorpionfish, flamboyant cuttlefish, tiger and harlequin shrimps, ornate ghost pipefish, harlequin crabs, and where do we start with octopus? Here’s just a few… wunderpus, mimic, blue ring, hairy, long arm, starry night, and coconut… and the list goes on!
Dive conditions in the Lembeh Strait can be extremely favourable for underwater photographers. There is little to no current making both moving around and remaining stationary a breeze. The comfortably warm water temperatures reduce the cold that can also set in when not on the move.
Lembeh Resort and Underwater Photography Workshops
Lembeh Resort not only offers luxury accommodation in the Lembeh Strait but it is also offers a complete suite of facilities for underwater photographers and enthusiasts. Here is a ‘snapshot’ of the camera and imaging services that are on offer at Lembeh Resort – inside and outside of underwater photography workshops:
Photography Facilities
Lembeh Resort offers a suite of facilities for underwater photographers, including:
- The only Backscatter Authorized Photo Center in Asia
- Photo Center offering camera, housing, lights and accessory rentals and purchases, onsite repairs, onsite 3D printing of small components, professional support and assistance, full workshop support
- Full time onsite Photo Pro
- Full time onsite Marine Biologists
- Marine biology and underwater photography trained Dive Guides
- Spacious camera room with individual work spaces, lights, and power points
- Varied diving options including single dives in the Lembeh Strait, two or three tank dive trips, day trips to Bangka, east coast Lembeh trips, blackwater, bonfire, night, and Mandarin fish dives.
Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop 2025
The renowned Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop is back in January 2025 for the 12th year running!! This unique workshop is hosted by not one but three worldclass photo professionals. The 2025 workshop features: Ron Watkins (USA), Paul Duxfield (UK), and Renee Capozzola (USA). The week-long workshop promises to be packed with incredible diving, Pro presentations, and one-on-one instruction and feedback.
2025 Workshop Schedule and Dates:
- Pre-Workshop: January 8th ––10th (time to relax and unwind after traveling and enjoy some of Lembeh’s famous dive sites.)
- Workshop: January 11th – 17th (Capturing Critters in Lembeh 12th Annual Workshop)
- Workshop Extension: January 18th – 19th (Additional Day Workshop Extension)
- Post-Workshop: January 20th – 21st (Stay additional nights and enjoy extra diving days or some time to relax and explore more of North Sulawesi)
Find Out More:
Meet the pros and find out more about the Capturing Critters in Lembeh 2025 underwater photography workshop, including prices and workshop inclusions, here:
If you are ready to book your place on the January 2025 Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop – contact Lembeh Resort at: reservations@LembehResort.com.
-
News2 months agoIconic SS United States to become the World’s Largest Artificial Reef
-
News2 months agoBook Review – 52 Assignments: Underwater Photography
-
Gear News2 months agoDYNAMICNORD – New German diving brand enters the British market
-
News2 months agoExploring Cenote El Pit: A Diver’s Dream
-
Gear News2 months agoTry BARE drysuits (and maybe even win one!) this Friday with Sea & Sea at North West Dive Fest
-
Marine Life & Conservation2 months agoBook Review: Coral Triangle Cameos
-
News2 months ago2024 Ocean Art Underwater Photo Competition Announced
-
Blogs2 months agoDive the Egyptian Red Sea this Autumn with Regaldive