Imagine diving the pristine coral reefs around Bora Bora one day, then blowing bubbles with humpback whales off the Cook Islands the next. Some of the World’s best warm water diving is found in the idyllic South Pacific and Ponant, the luxury French expedition cruise line, know all the best dive sites.
An early morning sail-in to the island of Bora Bora should be on every cruisers bucket list.
Jason Kerr – Managing Editor
In fact, Ponant have over 80 cruises with scuba diving options. Best of all they cater for everyone from beginners to experienced recreational divers.
Scuba diving with Ponant on the reefs
Bora Bora in French Polynesia is a divers paradise. It is famous for sparkling waters filled with manta rays, beautiful reef fish and corals. Indeed, it is this diversity of marine life that makes Bora Bora so popular with divers.
The island is unique. It is an ancient, exploded volcano which left a calm, clear lagoon encircled by little islands called motu. The coral reef surrounds it all like a string of pearls making Bora Bora perfect for even first time divers.
Wreck diving in Vanuatu
On the other hand, the spectacular WWII wrecks of Vanuatu are an experienced divers playground. Perhaps the most famous of these is the SS President Coolidge, which is located off the beach in Espiritu Santo.
The 187 m. / 615 ft. long SS Coolidge was a luxury liner turned troop ship. She was sunk by mines in October 1942. Today you can dive the wreck which starts at a depth of 20 m. / 67ft. before plummeting down into the abyss.
Divers are likely to meet Nessie, an enormous moray eel who lives in the anchor hole. If you venture inside the wreck you will see jeeps, ammunition and even a barber’s chair.
The Ponant difference
Ponant tell us that an experienced dive instructor will be onboard during each cruise, sometimes working in conjunction with local dive operators to ensure access to the best locations.
Ponant’s South Pacific itineraries take in the unspoilt beauty of Fiji, Samoa, the Cook Islands, Micronesia and Polynesia. Indeed, you don’t even need to get your feet wet to see the wonders beneath the waves. Guests on the new Explorer-class ships can glimpse the undersea environment from the massive portholes in the Blue Eye underwater lounge.
Ponant’s fleet of small expedition vessels offer the ultimate in luxury cruising. You can cool off in the refreshing pool or pamper yourself in the Sothy’s spa. There is exceptional French dining and an open bar with fine champagne, wine, beer and spirits.
Ponant’s range of scuba diving cruise vacations offers an experience like no other. Visit the Ponant website for more information.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
