Raziščite Kiribati
Kiribati, ugnezden v bleščečem Tihem oceanu v Mikroneziji, je dom največjega morskega rezervata v južnem Pacifiku na zavarovanem območju otoka Phoenix, ki je bilo leta 2010 uvrščeno na seznam svetovne dediščine Unesca, sestavljen iz 32 atolov in enega dvignjenega koralnega otoka.
Glavni otoki so običajno združeni v tri skupine: Gilbertovi otoki, Lineovi otoki, ki vključujejo znani Božični otok, in Phoenixovi otoki. Potapljaški centri in potapljaška letovišča, ki ponujajo vrsto potapljaških tečajev in izletov, obstajajo, vendar ne v velikem številu, zaradi česar so skupine majhne in potapljaška mesta mirna.
Med potapljanjem v Kiribatiju boste verjetno izkusili vstop v obalo in potapljanje s tradicionalnimi kanuji z izvlečnimi palicami. Možnost je tudi potapljanje z ladjo za prenočevanje, na kateri lahko potapljači obiščejo najboljše lokacije okoli različnih otokov.
Glavni potapljaški bazi sta Božični otok in Tarawa. Božični otok je največji in najbolj znan otok Kiribatija ter dom največjega koralnega atola na svetu. Na svoje neokrnjene grebene, kjer uspevajo številne morske vrste, privablja številne potapljače. Potapljači lahko pričakujejo kalejdoskopske grebenske ribe, mavrično obarvane trde in mehke korale, zmajeve murene, želve, grebenske morske pse, mante in orlove skate ter celo vrtavke. Od decembra do aprila pogosto opazimo orke, delfine in male kite. Med novembrom in aprilom je mogoče srečati kitovce. Atol Tarawa se ponaša tudi s fantastičnim potapljanjem, poleg tega pa najdemo tudi ostanke druge svetovne vojne, ki so posledica konfliktov v tem obdobju.
Top Kiribati Dive Sites
1. Christmas Island
Christmas Island offers a breathtaking diving experience with healthy corals and dramatic walls teeming with marine life, including pelagics like whale sharks from November to April. The adventure level is advanced due to the wall dives and potential currents. Both scuba and freediving are possible here. The site is known for its vibrant coral gardens and the possibility of encountering large schools of fish, making it a spectacular dive destination.
2. Tarawa Lagoon
Tarawa Lagoon is rich in history and marine biodiversity, featuring World War II shipwrecks and landing crafts. The adventure level is easy to advanced, suitable for both scuba divers and wreck enthusiasts. The wrecks are adorned with corals and home to various marine species, offering a unique blend of history and nature.
3. Line Islands
The Line Islands are remote and largely uninhabited, allowing the marine ecosystem to thrive. Divers can expect advanced level dives due to the pristine and untouched nature of the area. Scuba diving is the primary activity, with vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life promising unforgettable underwater adventures.
4. Southern Line Islands
The Southern Line Islands are a paradise for advanced divers, with largely unspoiled coral reefs supporting a diverse range of marine life. Scuba diving is recommended to explore the depths fully. The remoteness of the islands contributes to their pristine condition, making them a hidden gem for those seeking adventure.
5. Kiritimati Atoll (Freediving Possible)
Kiritimati Atoll, part of the Line Islands, is suitable for both scuba diving and freediving. It offers an easy to advanced adventure level, ideal for exploring its expansive coral reefs and abundant fish species. The atoll's remoteness has allowed the marine environment to flourish, providing a spectacular setting for underwater exploration.