As we start to enter the darker months with the prospect of a constant sniffle and lack of vitamin D, we think it's only appropriate to head off on a winter diving holiday. And if you have the option, why not explore further afield for some long-haul winter sun? Destination such as the Bahamas, the Maldives and French Polynesia are ready to welcome you with blue skies above the surface and plenty of marine life below. So if you're ready to swap out the cold snow for some warm sand, check out our favourite long-haul winter sun diving destinations...
Bahamas
Given their location in the most northern part of the Caribbean, the Bahamas won't offer you the warmest of winter temperatures, if that's what you're after. Nonetheless, with a minimum of 18˚C it's delightful. And if you like the big stuff, then the Bahamas will fit the bill, as they've been a National Shark Sanctuary since 2011, making these islands one of the best spots in the world to encounter big sharks. And for an ultimate rush of adrenaline, dive with the great hammerhead sharks in the shallow waters of Bimini in February.
Indonesia
In most of Indonesia, winter equals rain, rain and more rain, but there are a few places which are perfect for long haul winter sun, and it turns out that one of them is also the best spot for diving in Indonesia (and we think the best in the world): Raja Ampat. This area is right at the bull's eye of the coral triangle, also known as the centre of marine biodiversity one earth. Raja Ampat has more confirmed species of fish and corals than anywhere else in the world. Even if you're a very experienced diver you'll be surprised by the number of new fish and corals that you'll encounter. It's a long way to go but well worth the trip for the ultimate long haul winter diving.
French Polynesia
When the new year arrives, shake off the blues with a diving adventure in French Polynesia. Its pristine shores are as stunning as the incredible marine life beneath the waves. Head to Rangiroa for an unforgettable experience, where you can witness hammerheads hunting stingrays in the Tiputa Channel. For the manta ray lovers, head to Moʻorea and Bora Bora to watch them gather and feed at the cleaning stations. And did we mention the sharks? These warm waters are loved by (deep breath) blacktip, whitetip, hammerheads, lemon, tiger and silver tip sharks. Phew, that's a lot.
Maldives
If you're after sunshine and 40m+ visibility, then the Maldives is the place to go. Although December can have a little bit of rain due to the wet season ending in November, the temperatures are perfect and you'll get your fix of long haul winter sun. December marks the beginning of the northeastern monsoon season, turning the crystal-clear waters into a plankton soup. The result? These waters become full of manta rays around Baa Atoll while silkies, hammerheads and tiger sharks enjoy gliding in the south.
Mozambique
This country is becoming more and more popular and we understand why. The country itself is beautiful and offers some of the most stunning and empty white sand beaches in Africa. You could walk for hours without seeing anyone. It's reassuring to know that places like this still exist. In terms of accommodation, Mozambique has some of the best lodges in Africa and is perfect for the traveller that loves their 'barefoot luxury'. The diving is incredible too, with abundant marine life and amazing reefs. And to make everything even more idyllic, if you're backpacking and partying in Tofo or enjoying the remoteness of the luxurious Vamizi Island, you're virtually guaranteed to see manta rays and whale sharks between December and April.
