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The reefs off Tobago are prolific with marine life thanks
to the cross currents of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Aiding in the nutrient
of the waters of Tobago are the flood waters of Venezuelas Orinoco River, which wash
around the island bringing a rich payload of plankton and micro-organisms. It is
this
unique "washing machine" effect that encourages large marine animals to venture
near Tobago.
It is not uncommon to see Eagle Rays, Whale Sharks, Hammerheads and Giant Atlantic Manta Rays
at various times year-round.
A semi-permanent colony of giant manta rays is a perennial attraction in Tobago. Though
the migration patterns of this magnificent animal means that they are not always
predictable, the likelihood is that you will have the opportunity to see them.
A complete marine eco-system representative of the Caribbean can be found off the
shores of Tobago. As a diver you will be able to experience the nearly complete
representation of the coral and aquatic life of the Caribbean marine system. This includes
the worlds largest recorded brain coral, which grows just off the coast of Little
Tobago Island (also known as the "Bird of Paradise Island", part of Scuba
Adventure Safari eco-excursion tours).
You will discover that just below the surface of the sea, Tobago becomes a magic
kingdom. The fingering and weaving of the offshore reefs surrounding the island, makes
Tobago a divers (as well as snorkelers) paradise. Tobagos reef systems
are a universe unto themselves. The diversity and richness is virtually unrivalled in the
Caribbean.
The Manta rays periodically reside off the coast of Tobago and are an irresistible
attraction to divers. These large creatures can be found with unprecedented regularity due
to the plankton content of the water surrounding Tobago.
As a photographer you will need to bring a large quantity of film to capture this
diversity of fish, eels, rays and large pelagics. The approachability and friendliness of
the marine inhabitants will allow for some of the most outstanding photo opportunities.
During night dives the activity of the reef seems to be endless. Filming and experiencing
the thrill of nature at her wildest will only be surpassed by the beauty of the reef and
your participation.
Tobago offers a number of excellent diving sites. However, there are several sites
along the island which require an advance level of diving experience. There are dives with
currents which exceed 8 knots and cause your bubbles to descend before they ascend!
Sites like Flying Reef and Divers Dream off the southern tip of Tobago will test your
excitement threshold. The cross currents off the southern tip bring the largest animals.
We caution you to be ready for the thrill that will make you pee in your wetsuit.
Other popular dive sites are; Diver's Thirst, Cut-throat Cove, Gods Thrill, The
Shallows, Mt. Irvine Wall, Book Ends, Coral Gardens-Buccoo Reef, Sisters, London
Bridge/Marble Arch, The Giles, Englishman's Bay, Johnnys Point and Speyside.
The 350-foot Scarlet Ibis, which once provided ferry service between Tobago and
Trinidad, was deliberately sunk three-quarters of a mile off Mount Irvine and has already
become an interesting dive location. A young artificial reef has taken hold on the
"Maverick Wreck" and special host "JO JO", the giant Jewfish, doubles as a friendly
guide on this multilevel dive experience! (60 ft-upper decks, 80ft-light penetration of
cargo area, 100ft- maximum depth)
The "sisters islands" are reserved as
our eco dive safari special knockout suprise! Galapagos
like rocky outcropping cliffs and canyons are tapestried
in a thick growth of healthy, colourful low profile
corals and sponges. This site combines awesome blue
water diving (2 minutes off shore) with spectacular
tropical reef topography, an impressive abundance and
stunning variety of marine tropical wildlife and large
pelagic species such as rays and a variety of sharks
including schooling golden hammerheads! The hammerhead
sharks circumnavigate around the sisters rock islands
during the winter months in large schools which give the
"sleep swimming" giants safety in numbers.
What you will discover about Tobago beyond the outrageous diving, is the interaction of
the dive operation and the development of diver education for the promotion of diver
ecology. The local people and Scuba Adventure Safari have developed a
relationship to promote tourism without destroying the natural tranquility of the island.
We promote the respectful interaction of our divers with the marine environment. As you
will discover, our staff will assist you in this understanding and with the positive
interaction with our unique system. We believe in the idea that divers are responsible and
aware of the need for vigilance. We let you dive in complete safety yet with the freedom
to enjoy the experience.

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