If you’ve grown up, as this writer’s other half did, diving off the West Coast of Scotland, you’ll be familiar with the ‘woolly bear’ outfit. It’s what many divers in this glorious – but often temperamental – part of the diving world wear under their drysuits to keep cosy in the chilly waters of the Atlantic.
Certainly, the woolly bear can be a welcome friend, especially given that weather conditions in the Northern hemisphere can change from glorious, blue, not-a-cloud-to-be-seen skies to dark, foreboding and distinctly inclement at the flick of a dolphin’s tail.
There are some idyllic diving spots in the Inner and Outer Hebrides which make it worthwhile. But really, you’d be mad not to head off on Caribbean diving holidays, leaving your teddy behind.
Obviously there’ll be an added cost. But if you’ve saved up all year for a precious and much-anticipated scuba diving break, you probably won’t want to risk spending the entire week (or fortnight) huddled in the cabin of a bobbing boat, barely getting the opportunity to dip more than a toe in the water.
Choose your diving destination wisely
The solution to these weather worries? Caribbean diving holidays, of course! Mention the Caribbean, and the first things people think about are glorious sunshine, turquoise seas and pristine sand. And if you’re a diver, it’s the first two that matter most – though the sand is useful for entertaining any sun-worshipping, non-diving partners/friends!
In the Caribbean you are literally spoilt for choice, as the area comprises over 90 islands, each with its own unique character. With average water temperatures of 27 C, there won’t be a woolly bear in site – the most you’ll need is a 5mm shortie.
Keen to avoid the crowds? Bonaire’s the place to be. Looking for wrecks? Head for Grenada, it’s not known as the ‘wreck capital of the Caribbean’ for nothing.
Diving – almost a religion in the Caribbean
Scuba diving in this stunning part of the world is akin to a way of life. After all, who wouldn’t want to dive if they could shimmy through warm, sun-kissed waters between shoals of exotic-coloured fish – not to mention coming face-to-face with other fascinating and unusual sea creatures and coral in every hue of the rainbow?
It’s no exaggeration to say that on Caribbean diving holidays, there’s a new underwater paradise awaiting you in every dive site.
Add value to your diving holiday
In addition to diving for sheer pleasure, many people combine business and leisure by booking a diving course leading to a qualification, such as those offered by PADI.
Getting qualified has several benefits: Depending on which course you opt for, you could become a diving instructor – a perfect holiday job for students and ‘gappies’; and the more you know about diving, the safer you will be under the sea.
Wherever you choose for your Caribbean diving holidays, and however you wish to spend your diving time, one thing is sure: You’ll experience dives beyond your wildest dreams in this most exotic part of the planet.
The list of possibilities is endless. And, if you travel with a company which has a proven track record in luxury diving breaks – such as Hayes & Jarvis – you can relax, safe in the knowledge that every aspect of your holiday will be well looked after.
Stick the woolly in the wash and get away, that’s what we say!
