Some travelers aren’t satisfied with just an ocean view. They want to explore coral reefs, shipwrecks and the vibrant, diverse ecosystems that inhabit our oceans. Today, scuba diving is a multi-billion dollar industry, and one of the world’s fastest-growing recreational sports.
For a travel agent, divers represent a huge opportunity because they are motivated to travel to all areas of the globe. Plus, agents can sell scuba to couples, adult groups, and also families; Kids can get their initial certification from PADI, the world’s largest scuba diving certification organization, starting at age 10.
These dive destinations are among the top places to travel for scuba divers:
Bonaire
This low-key island in the south Caribbean draws divers back again and again. The waters surrounding the entire island, known as the Bonaire National Marine Park, are calm, protected and contain dozens of dive sites. Bonaire is known as the shore diving capital of the Caribbean, because reefs begin just yards out from the shore.
Accommodations include Captain Don’s Habitat, an eco-friendly, diver-centric resort in which equipment is available for rent 24/7. Plaza Beach Resort has its own beach, a rarity on the island, and an in-house dive school.
St. Lucia
This honeymooners’ paradise is also home to colorful, easily accessible reefs and calm waters year-round. Nature-loving travelers can pair their dives with hikes through the island’s lush rainforest or whale watching excursions. With a selection of chic restaurants to choose from, St. Lucia is a must-visit destination for serious adventurers with serious appetites!
Dive packages are available at many of the island’s resorts, including the high-end sanctuary Jade Mountain, the expansive, family-friendly Windjammer Landing Beach Resort, and the peaceful hideaway, Ti Kaye Resort & Spa, among others.
Honduras
The islands of Roatán, Utila and Guanaja, roughly 40 miles off of mainland Honduras, boast a location on the world’s second-largest barrier reef system. Wreck dives, drift dives, shark dives and even whale shark dives are all popular here. With more than 300 dive sites, scuba divers have reason to make return trips to the region too.
Discover all-inclusive dive vacations at the Anthonys Key Resort, Mayan Princess Beach and Dive Resort, and Turquoise Bay Resort, all on Roatán.
Tahiti
A bucket list destination for many, the Tahitian islands offer world-class beauty both above and below water. Currents flowing between the islands attract many different species of shark, including hammerheads, whitetips and blacktips. Clear waters also allow for easy viewing of sea turtles, dolphins and manta rays.
Everyone dreams of a stay in an overwater bungalow, and Tahiti is essentially the capital of overwater bungalows. Choose from the upscale Kia Ora Rangiroa, a 60-room property with a traditional Polynesian flare; the InterContinental Tahiti, which features crystal clear lagoon waters and fresh local cuisine; and InterContinental Bora Bora Thalasso, a luxurious oasis with a variety of room options.
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Websites like GoDiveNow.com and www.PADI.com are excellent resources to learn more about dive vacation and scuba diving in general. PADI’s site allows you to search for a dive shop near you. Developing a relationship with your local dive shops opens the door to finding clients looking to book scuba diving vacations!
Wondering how you can start your own travel agency from home? Fill out the form on the right or call 1-888-611-1220 to receive KHM Travel Group’s free information packet!