With 70% of the world’s surface being covered by water, it shouldn’t really come as any surprise that some of the planet’s most impressive sights are under the surface of lakes and oceans. Some are marvels of Mother Nature, while others had a human hand in their creation. Fortunately, many of them are accessible to novice divers, while some can also be appreciated by boat or on land. Take a deep breath and check out these 10 underwater wonders of the great blue beyond.
1. The Great Blue Hole, Belize
Just off the coast of the small Central American nation of Belize lies one of the world’s most impressive submarine sinkholes, the Great Blue Hole. A popular bucket-list spot for scuba divers, visitors can enjoy crystal clear water and see various fish species such as the Caribbean reef shark. At its deepest point, the Great Blue Hole reaches 407 feet, where adventurous divers will find a spectacular underwater cave and reef system.
2. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
One of Australia’s most famous and stunningly beautiful natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef covers around 133,000 square miles, making it the largest coral reef in the world. Known for its clear waters and vast numbers of endemic marine species, it is the ultimate diver’s paradise. Visitors may also take a boat tour or stay on one of the resort islands near the reef.
3. Jules Undersea Lodge, USA
Have you ever wanted to make like a mermaid and spend a night underwater? The Jules Undersea Lodge at the Key Largo Undersea Park in Florida was the first submerged hotel of its kind anywhere in the world. If you’re not a certified diver, you’ll need to take a brief diving course to stay there, since it involves diving down 21 feet to get to the entrance of the fully equipped underwater habitat. There are a few other underwater hotels and restaurants popping up in places like Dubai, Fiji and the Maldives, so there’s obviously a demand for this kind of unique submarine experience.
