The temporary closure of the UK's travel corridors is sad news, but it still feels like the whole country is poised and ready to head off on holiday as soon as is humanly possible. The race between vaccines and virus makes this latest lockdown feel particularly tough, but that's why we believe this is the perfect time to plan a mouth-watering trip for later in the year. You'll beat the inevitable rush to book that will happen in a month or so and consequently can bask in that much-needed hit of happiness that comes from anticipating sun on your face, diving over pristine reefs, and the sense of delicious otherness that only comes from travel in captivating dive destinations.
So, if we're all agreed it's a case of 'When, not If', where should you be going and what should you be doing later in 2021? Trying to predict exact timescales has proved a mug's game these past few months, but here are our top suggestions based on an assumption (and a deep-seated desire) that we'll be travelling again by May…
Step into Spring with an Unforgettable Getaway
Family Fun in Grenada
As winter makes way for the gentle embrace of spring, why not whisk the whole family away for a diving adventure in Grenada? Warm water and some seriously fascinating marine life combine to create the perfect diving classroom. Above the waves, adventure awaits - with lush tropical rainforest, waterfalls and hidden beaches sure to delight the whole family. This fun-filled family adventure in Grenada is the ideal spring getaway.
Big Short Diving Break in Gozo
Short on time? Head to southern Europe for warmer weather and the perfect European dive spot - Gozo, for an unforgettable weekend packed with diving fun. This four-day itinerary includes cave, wreck and reef diving and when you aren't diving, you'll be exploring the ancient fortresses and picture-perfect villages dotted around the island. Not a bad way to spend a long weekend.
Our Top picks for Summer Holidays for Families and Couples Alike
Island hopping in the Azores
Looking ahead to the warmest months of the year when planning your dive diary? Well, an island hopping adventure in the Azores should be at the top of your list. Dive, hike and cycle your way around the wild and rugged landscape of the Azores. Underwater adventures here include whale watching and diving around wartime wrecks. It's the ultimate destination for an action-packed summer adventure.
Paradise Found in the Maldives
For those looking for a more relaxed summer break, the Maldives is the perfect place. Although great weather at this time of the year can't be guaranteed, low season pricing and fantastic diving sights more than make up for it. The water is still full of plankton during the summer months, which draws manta rays - especially in the Baa Atoll. Fab for families and perfect for a relaxing summer break, the Maldives is the ideal spot for a slice of summer paradise.
The Best Diving trips for October half term
Learn to Dive in Egypt
If your half term heralds the need for a family adventure, why not head to Egypt and get the whole family learning to dive? With short flight times from the UK and perfect diving conditions - think warm water, colourful coral and some fantastic dive centres - it's the perfect place for a family adventure that everyone will love.
The Best of the Winter Sun Getaways
The highlights of the Seychelles in Desroches and Alphonse
The nights are drawing in and the weather is turning colder - sounds like the perfect time for a getaway in search of some winter sun and where better to combine sunny days and diving than the Seychelles? Combine two of the country's most luxurious private islands - Desroches and Alphonse - on this ultimate diving adventure. For a winter break, you'll want to visit the Outer Islands, which are best seen between October and April.
Island Living & Whale Sharks in Tanzania
For the ultimate safari and diving holiday, look no further than Tanzania. The best time to visit is between October and March, which also happens to be whale shark season - perfect for those looking for an unforgettable underwater encounter with the world's largest fish. Spend your days on the laid back islands of Mafia and Pemba, complete with deserted beaches and turquoise lagoons. When it comes to diving, head into the water in search of whale sharks and marvel at the varied and pristine diving conditions in Mafia Island Marine Park and the Pemba Channel.
A New Year, a Fresh Start – here are our Top Picks for your 2022 Dive Diary
Pristine Reefs in Bohol & Dumaguete
Kick start 2022 in style with an unforgettable diving adventure aboard a private yacht or liveaboard. Indonesia is home to some of the best liveaboards and with testing protocols in place and isolated, private groups being the mainstay of liveaboard trips - you can get back into the water with complete confidence. These trips do need booking in advance, such in the demand after the events of 2020 and 2021. The best part? The pristine reefs surrounding Indonesia have been virtually untouched in the last year, meaning that the diving will be the best its ever been.
Marine Magic in Raja Ampat & Sulawesi
Home to world-class diving, the Philippines has to be on your 2022 diving bucket list - and there are some great deals to be had for next year. On this incredible itinerary, you'll be exploring some of the country's best dive sites - Bohol and the Negros.
