From scuba diving in the Arctic, to dining more than five metres below the Atlantic, these incredible ocean adventures around the globe will have you pulling out your travel to-do list. The only question is, where to go first?
Natural hot springs in Iceland
Dubbed the crown jewel of North Iceland, Mývatn has a dramatic landscape of lava formations, geysers, fumaroles and geothermal pools set against exceptionally dark skies. In fact, Lake Mývatn is one of the best places in Iceland to view the Northern Lights – and Mývatn Nature Baths is the best place to do it.
Open late into the night and boasting a swim-up bar, natural hot springs and views over Lake Mývatn (even from inside the geothermal sauna), Mývatn Nature Baths draw water from depths of up to 2,500 metres, and the 40°C heat is guaranteed to keep you toasty for the duration of the celestial light show.
Turtle hatchlings on a private island in the Philippines
There’s nothing as awe-inspiring as witnessing the cycle of life. Guests of Aman’s Amanpulo resort can watch in wonder as turtle hatchlings emerge from their eggs and make their way towards the moonlit tides of Pamalican, a pristine private island in the Philippines. From March to October each year, the island becomes an important nesting site for laying green and hawksbill turtles.
Read more: 13 private islands you need to book now
Zodiac tours to remote locations
Zodiac tours offer a fresh perspective on the world’s hidden gems. From the Amazon’s complex network of tributaries and the idyllic coastlines of the South Seas to the mesmerising glacial landscapes of far-flung poles, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises hosts Zodiac tours on select expedition cruises. Taking travellers into locations that are impossible to access via road, rail or ship, these tours are guided by experts, bring you closer to marine life and the awe-inspiring world beneath the waves, where every stop is an incredible adventure.
Private charter on French canals
Float into French excellence. Idyllic hillsides brimming with haute gastronomy and heritage form the backdrop of Les Bateaux Belmond, Belmond’s boutique collection of privately chartered river boats. Drift along tranquil canals before mooring for divine hand-tailored excursions in the delightful Burgundy, Rhône and Provence. From truffle-hunting and vintage tastings to hot air ballooning above vineyard-bordered châteaux, each shore experience is designed to indulge and inspire. Your sumptuous suite will welcome you back in style, with some boats boasting copper bathtubs, embroidered fabrics and on-deck alfresco pools.
Stay in a floating hotel in Rwanda
Adventure abounds aboard Rwanda’s first floating luxury hotel, the Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga by Mantis. This all-inclusive houseboat offers a two or three-night sailing on the emerald waters of Lake Kivu. With 10 well-appointed cabins and suites, a pool, a dining salon, a gourmet restaurant and a viewing deck featuring a hot tub, guests can take in the mountainous landscapes and wildlife without foregoing any creature comforts. Sailing along the Kivu belt, with stops for nature walks and visits to local communities, this expedition is one you will carry with you for a lifetime.
Dive a shipwreck in the Red Sea
Dive into the depths of Egypt’s Red Sea and explore the final resting place of the British munitions ship SS Thistlegorm, sunk by a German bomber in 1941. The Dive Centre at Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh now hosts day trips to the dive site. Board a high-speed powerboat to the Strait of Gubal and, during two exploratory dives, descend 30-metres below the surface to discover the Thistlegorm’s holds and sister ship, the Rosalie Moller, as well as the wrecks of Abu Nuhas.
Charter a luxury yacht to the outer Great Barrier Reef
Seek out the rarely visited areas of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, including the remote outer reef where access is limited to a handful of specialised charter operators. Whitsunday Luxury Sailing Holidays offers guests the chance to experience one of the world’s most spectacular destinations in the utmost style aboard the yacht Sydney Sundancer, which has been likened to a floating five-star hotel. Add to that expert hosting by a couple who have perfected their offering over 30 years, and you’ve got the ultimate sailing adventure.
Explore the coral reefs of West Papua
Embark on an upscale diving expedition to Raja Ampat in the pristine paradise of West Papua with True North. Guests can explore vibrant coral gardens, swim alongside graceful manta rays and get up close and personal with rare marine species without the usual crowds in this remote pocket of Indonesia. Cruising aboard the True North elevates the experience with plush accommodation, gourmet dining and bespoke service. In between dives, you can relax in elegant surroundings or enjoy guided excursions to far-flung islands.
Cruise the Mediterranean
Experience the majestic expanse of the Mediterranean onboard a dreamy cruise ship. Visit destinations such as Italy, Spain and France while gliding across azure waters and taking in panoramic ocean views from the deck. The gentle rhythm of the waves provides a sense of peace as you explore vibrant coastal cities, historic landmarks and charming islands immersed in the Mediterranean’s sun-soaked culture and cuisine, making a deep connection with the sea. MSC Cruises is the biggest cruise line in the Mediterranean and the third-largest cruise operator in the world, with 14 ships operating in the Mediterranean alone throughout the year. Offering a unique flexi-porting option that allows guests to choose their port of embarkation, passengers are seamlessly connected to both the ship and the destinations they wish to visit. While onboard, indulge in cutting-edge facilities, world-class entertainment and delicious dining venues.
Kayak in Doubtful Sound, New Zealand
Cradled in the peaks of Fiordland National Park lies a mirror-like inlet of stillness. With nothing but the lapping of water against oars to break the quiet, kayaking New Zealand’s Doubtful Sound offers a tranquil, natural encounter. Home to Fiordland crested penguins, southern fur seals and bottlenose dolphins, this wilderness of glacial valleys, waterfalls and snow-dusted peaks is awe-inspiring. Join Doubtful Sound Kayak for a day tour from Te Anau on the South Island, crossing Lake Manapōuri by boat and over Wilmot Pass to Deep Cove by car.
Embark on a heli-surf adventure in Costa Rica
Chase the remote and coveted swells of Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast with the aid of a private helicopter. Pelorus Travel’s multi-day heli-surf adventure begins in the famous surf break of Roca Bruja, backdropped by volcanic rock and verdant national park. Expect captivating azure vistas as you soar down to the charming surf town of Playa Tamarindo, spotting spinner dolphins and breaching whales. On the Nicoya Peninsula, rhythmic barrels, mangroves and snorkelling opportunities await, while Santa Teresa plates up small-town charm.
Dine on a super yacht on Sydney Harbour
Icebergs Dining Room and Bar has teamed up with Australia’s newest luxury charter super yacht, Sirenuse and the Yacht Society to create an exceptional dining experience. This innovative partnership marks the first exclusive fine dining experience onboard the opulent Sirenuse, setting sail just in time for the summer season. Guests can look forward to enjoying the quintessential Icebergs menu, all designed to be savoured while cruising the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour, creating an unforgettable culinary journey. The new experience is designed for groups and events and is available upon request.
Stay in an underwater suite in Dubai
With views over the Arabian Gulf, award-winning restaurants and world-class spa facilities, Atlantis, The Palm is one of Dubai’s most renowned hotels – and it has some very unique accommodation options. The Underwater Suite offers guests views of more than 65,000 marine species from the comfort of their private abode via full-length windows that peer directly into The Lost Chamber Aquarium’s Ambassador Lagoon. Complete with a private elevator, 24-hour butler service and in-room check-in, everything is catered for so you can relax while sharks, rays and fish glide right past your bed. For those who dream of finding their Zen, the aquarium hosts yoga classes suitable for all levels.
Swim with whales in Tonga
Tonga is one of the best places in the world to see – and swim with – humpback whales and on a tour with Raw Edge Photography you’ll go home with insanely good images of yourself and your mammalian friends. This exceptional experience includes seven nights at Tongan Beach Resort, which has just 12 guest rooms and is located on the beachfront, and four days of swimming with humpback whales in the warm, clear Tongan waters.
Explore the marine life of the Sea of Cortez
Known as the ‘Aquarium of the World ’ you’ll experience a menagerie of marine life while voyaging on the Sea of Cortez. Celebrated for its rich biodiversity, this secluded Mexican paradise offers endless encounters in one of the country’s most precious marine havens. Charter your own yacht and dive into the pristine waters, swim with playful sea lions and be wowed by blue-footed boobies along the coastline. Between swims, indulge in gourmet meals prepared by your onboard chef and enjoy the unfolding scenery while reclining on the deck.
Indulge in The Skjól Ritual in Iceland
The Skjól Ritual at Sky Lagoon in Reykjavik offers a rejuvenating wellness experience set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Icelandic ocean. This luxe seven-step journey begins with a dip in the mineral-rich geothermal pools of the lagoon before a cold plunge to invigorate the senses. The cleansing benefits of a hot sauna come next, followed by a revitalising cold mist shower, energising body scrub and warm steam blast. The ritual concludes with a soothing mist shower and time out for reflection and relaxation, with the whole experience leaving you refreshed and restored for days to come.
Go fly fishing in Greenland
The Kangia fjord and Erfalik River are the hidden gems of Greenland’s West Coast with Flyfish Greenland. Known for their exceptionally large runs of Arctic char and salmon, both rivers attract fly-fishing enthusiasts from around the world. Wilderness lovers will be wonderstruck by the spectacular cut-banks, rapids, waterfalls and mountains, and can stay in the remote Kangia River Lodge or Erfalik Lodge, which both facilitate unparalleled fishing adventures.
Stay at China’s heart of the earth
Venture to the centre of the Earth at InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, an innovative hotel built into the rock walls of a flooded quarry. Located 50 kilometres outside of Shanghai, the five-star address defies expectations with two underwater levels, a waterfall and a scalable 88-metre cliff face. Marvel at the nightly water spectacle from one of several underwater suites, each boasting their own aquarium, or savour gourmet seafood at the underwater restaurant while watching sea creatures idly swim past in the custom-built display.
Cruise the Amazon on a luxury riverboat
You’ll journey through one of nature’s greatest masterpieces when sailing along the Amazon River with Aqua Expeditions. Explore the world’s most biodiverse rainforest in the utmost style onboard Aqua Nera, which features all the bells and whistles of a five-star hotel, including world-class dining, a plunge pool, spa, gym, movie room, and games lounge. By day, explore the Amazonian waterways on guided wildlife excursions, and by night, retreat to your elegantly appointed suite to be gently rocked to sleep by the swaying waters and curious animal callings coming from the jungle.
Explore the art of the Seto Inland Sea in Japan
Swap the cities of Japan for the islands of Setouchi and discover a world where art reigns supreme. Board your private catamaran and sail the Seto Inland Sea on a bespoke island-hopping itinerary to Naoshima, Inujima, Shodoshima and Teshima. Renowned for their striking outdoor contemporary art installations and beautiful natural scenery, see works by Japanese and international artists, then refuel with a gourmet meal prepared by your private onboard chef.
Meander along the canals of Kerala by houseboat, India
There’s no better way to experience Kerala than by meandering along its palm-fringed canals on a private houseboat. Here, you can discover the tranquil beauty of India’s backwaters while enjoying all the comforts and style of a five-star floating hotel. Indulge in local delicacies whipped up by your onboard chef before unwinding on the deck to enjoy the ever-moving canvas of tropical lagoons, exotic wildlife and everyday local life along the riverbanks.
Admire Budapest by private river cruise
Be charmed by the beauty of Budapest on a private river cruise along the historic Danube. Float past Buda Castle, the Chain Bridge and Parliament House aboard luxury vessel Thetis, while enjoying cuisine from Michelin-starred restaurant Costes or your own personal onboard chef. Whether for a romantic evening or an exclusive gathering, this intimate sailing is available from two to eight hours and offers guests a sophisticated journey through the Hungarian capital city.
Witness the Kimberley’s Horizontal Falls by seaplane
Soar above the majesty of WA’s Horizontal Falls on a 24-hour Seaplane Adventure. Begin with a scenic flight over the falls – where the tide dramatically rushes through narrow gaps of the McLarty Range to create unique horizontal waterfalls – followed by exhilarating powerboat cruises through the turquoise waters of Talbot Bay in the Kimberley region. Unwind aboard the Jetwave Pearl, a two-storey houseboat moored near the world-famous falls. Expect gourmet meals, marine life spotting and your every whim taken care of.
Indulge in Michelin dining on the River Seine
Only one yacht was awarded a Michelin star in the 2024 guide, and you’ll find it sailing the Seine in Paris. The Don Juan II is an Art Deco beauty with a menu crafted by Frédéric Anton, renowned for his Michelin-starred restaurants Pré Catelan and Jules Verne. Board at Port Debilly opposite the Eiffel Tower and settle into the elegant surrounds for a scenic cruise by Paris’s most famous monuments, from Notre Dame to the Grand Palais. Expect an elevated menu crafted from seasonal produce presented in fresh and imaginative ways, and a gastronomic experience as beautiful as the City of Light itself.
Swim your way through the Greek Islands
Dive into some of the world’s most beautiful waterways on a swim tour with SwimTrek. In Greece, explore Europe’s largest marine protected area, the National Marine Park of Alonissos Northern Sporades. Over seven days, discover the islands of Alonissos, Agihos Georgios, Mikro and Skopelos, swimming up to five kilometres a day in azure waters. Other Greek swims include the Ionian Explorer and the Greek Cyclades tour. In 2025, new tours will be introduced in Montenegro, Cyprus, Costa Rica, Galápagos and Cozumel.
Visit an underwater gallery on the Great Barrier Reef
Jason deCaires Taylor’s underwater galleries are filled with pieces that are not just sculptures but artificial reefs, carefully placed to maximise positive environmental impact. His work can be seen in Australia at the Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) in the Great Barrier Reef off Townsville. Ocean Sentinels features eight sculptures and can be seen by snorkellers and divers. Taylor’s newest in Carriacou, Grenada showcases a fleet of 30 boats paddled by school children and brings attention to the threat of climate change.
Sleep in an igloo at sea
When Lindblad Expeditions founder, Sven Lindblad, saw see-through igloos in Finland, he immediately began to plan how to get them on his own ships. Today, two purpose-built polar ships in the Lindblad fleet have the only igloos you can find at sea. After days exploring the polar regions, curl up and gaze at a starry sky on a cosy bed with a hot water bottle tucked by your side. Come daylight, leave your private pod to slip into the adjacent infinity-edged hot tub and watch icebergs bob below.
Wakatobi Resort is Indonesia’s most spectacular snorkelling and diving destination
Wakatobi Resort sits on a small island in southeast Sulawesi offering exclusive access to some of the most pristine coral reefs in the world. It’s renowned amongst divers and snorkelers, as it is considered one of the planet’s premier coral preserves. The reefs surrounding the resort are home to thousands of species of unique marine life and more than 400 varieties of colourful coral growth. Marine biologists have referred to it as a haven for marine biodiversity.
Out of the ocean, enjoy five-star service, gourmet dining, and opulent accommodations. The resort’s oceanfront villas up the wow factor with panoramic waterfront decks delivering sunset views, Asian-style outdoor showers and plunge pools. Indulge in added perks such as personal butler services, private boats for diving and snorkelling, on-site spa treatments, and private guides.
A stay at the luxury tropical resort is not only a treat for yourself, it also gives back to the planet. The Collaborative Reef Conservation Program has a “no-take” agreement on the marine preserve with local communities in exchange for a direct monthly income and other benefits from Wakatobi. Area fishermen understand that the notake zones serve as nurseries that boost fish populations in areas adjacent to the sanctuary. This evolution into a sustainable model for harvesting has turned these same fishermen into some of the strongest advocates for reef protection. Wakatobi’s conservation program is a true success story in marine conservation.
Take an overnight cruise through Halong Bay
Vietnam
Discover a captivating world of emerald waters and lush green limestone islands that date back thousands of years in Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site in Vietnam. Capella Cruise takes explorers on journeys through the region, touring land and sea by boat, bike and foot. Visit the ancient village of Viet Hai on Cat Ba Island, or marvel at the geological magic of Trung Trang Cave, before returning to the comfort of an ultra-luxury ship with all the bells and whistles.
Explore Croatia’s coastline with a Michelin-star chef
Pelegrini is a Michelin-starred fine dining establishment in the Croatian city of Šibenik. The ever-changing menu presents the Dalmatian way of life, and you can now take this culinary experience on a scenic sojourn of the Croatian coast. Rent a Pelegrini boat with a Michelin-star chef as your skipper who will guide you through the sights of Šibenik’s archipelago. After a dip in the ocean, your gourmet chaperone will serve up a treat – along with wine pairings – aboard your private charter.
Read: Explore the Michelin-starred restaurants on Italy’s Amalfi Coast
Charter Aman’s yacht in Indonesia
Charter Aman Resort’s private flagship yacht, Amandira, on a seven-night Komodo Expedition. You’ll be able to visit the only two islands in the world where the Komodo dragons are found. You’ll also be treated to the Nusa Tenggara Archipelago and Raja Ampat for diving and snorkelling experiences, which are amongst the world’s most biologically diverse and acclaimed underwater sites. Enjoy the onboard perks of a private chef, waitstaff, PADI-certified instructor, massage therapist and five luxury cabins.
Dine at an underwater restaurant
Norway
Under is submerged more than five metres below the icy waves of the North Atlantic. The unique ocean-floor dining concept is accessed from Lindesnes in the traditional Sørlandet region. Under dedicates equal focus to marine research, architecture and gastronomy. The Immersion Menu takes guests on a journey through 18 Norwegian seafood delicacies, while the massive acrylic windows provide a rare view of the seabed’s ecosystem. Developed in collaboration with architects Snøhetta, the concrete shell of the restaurant is built to withstand harsh environmental conditions while providing a new habitat for kelp and limpets on which to thrive.
Support the Great Barrier Reef
Tropical North Queensland is blessed with one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. The colossal living organism spans more than 2,300 kilometres and is renowned for its vibrant coral formations, exotic marine life and crystal-clear waters. The thriving ecosystem is not only for marvelling at (although there is that too), but visitors can actively contribute to its preservation.
Explore the reef with one of many operators engaged in coral restoration projects and dive into hands-on activities, such as conducting reef surveys or coral planting. For those who prefer observation, hop on a glass-bottom boat stars learn about coral stabilisation and its role in the reef’s regeneration. To deepen your understanding of the reef, turn to certified Master Reef Guides who offer an expert and enriching experience with storytelling and interpretation skills honed through rigorous training. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, contributing to the protection of Australian sea turtles, with tour proceeds supporting their care.
Read: Eco certified tour operators are helping regenerate the Great Barrier Reef
Explore under-the-radar parts of France by barge
Step aboard your luxury barge on the Canal de Bourgogne in Burgundy and spend seven days gliding along canals, visiting 12th-century winery Clos de Vougeot; wandering the cobbled township of Beaune, with its 15th-century Hospices de Beaune; and soaking up spectacular views from the medieval hilltop village of Châteauneufen-Auxois. This is life aboard Savoir Vivre, your luxury floating barge handpicked by Hotels Afloat. With more than 50 years of experience, European-based Hotels Afloat’s team custom-creates cruises to suit your needs, whether it’s a self-drive experience for your entire extended family, a gorgeous hotel barge or a small-ship cruise. Each journey takes you to private wine tastings in vineyards in exceptional Domaines; visits to cheese farms, historic chateaux, markets, monuments and museums combine to make an unforgettable week of discovery. Then, return to your floating luxury barge, where you’ll be treated to three- and four-course meals matched with local wines. The carefully chosen barges also float along the rivers of Provence, Bordeaux, Alsace, the Loire and the Champagne region of France.
Dive in world’s largest underwater cave
Mexico
The world’s largest underwater cave is a natural limestone sinkhole found just outside Tulum, Mexico. El Pit Cenote has been explored to a depth of 119 metres and has become famous for the ethereal blue beams of light that penetrate deep into the chamber. It’s this phenomenon of dancing light, plus a spooky hydrogen sulphide cloud at 30 metres deep, that draws underwater photography enthusiasts from all around the world to this jungle dive in the Mayan Riviera. But you do need to be an advanced diver to scuba to its depths.
Surf in the Maldives
The Maldives has some of the best waves in the world. Crystal clear waters and high wave density create the perfect environment for both pro surfers and enthusiasts alike. Elevate the experience with private surf charter Luex. Board a luxury boat with gourmet culinary encounters, jet skis, personal yoga coaches and heli-drops at unbelievable surf spots. Luex also ensures wave riders catch the most impressive barrels across the five regions.
Underwater spa treatments
Maldives
An ocean experience needn’t be limited to water sports and cruises. Hidden eight metres below the gently undulating waters of the Maldives is Huvafen Spa. The underwater wellness retreat has views of bioluminescent coral and marine life. It’s the first and only underwater spa treatment room in the world, and you’ll find it at Huvafen Fushi Resort. Opt for the Signature Underwater massage offerings by acclaimed massage expert Beata Aleksandrowicz, which translate the serenity of the ocean into blissful rejuvenation therapies. It’s a spaquarium experience that allows guests to sip champagne and nibble upon delicate bites while observing the underwater wonders of the reef.
Feast on Oysters
NSW, Australia
Have a shucking good time as you slurp delicious, slippery oysters during an exclusive ‘in-water’ dining experience with Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. Learn about the complex business of oyster farming from a boat before donning bib-and-brace waders and stepping out into the thigh-high waters of the Hawkesbury River, where a row of partially submerged white-clothed tables awaits, replete with silver platters of oysters ready to be shucked. This fun, immersive tour is made all the more enticing when paired with a glass of champagne, or perhaps a shot of smoky Glenglassaugh whisky to best complement the briny flavour of the oysters plucked straight from ‘lease-to table’.
Sleep in the Great Barrier Reef
Wake to kaleidoscopic marine life floating through aqua waters mere metres from your bed. This is Reefsuites – Australia’s first underwater accommodation. Moored offshore at Hardy Reef in Queensland, there are just two suites, both with floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the incredible underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll begin your unique experience with a cruise through Australia’s beautiful Whitsunday Islands, along with water activities and an onboard chef who serves up meals made with seasonal, local produce.
Drive the Atlantic Road in Norway
A narrow eight-kilometre road with eight bridges weaving its way through the ocean via a series of small islets – it’s little wonder The Atlantic Road in Norway is referred to as one of the most beautiful road trips in the world. Popularised through its starring role in the James Bond movie No Time To Die, it has no shortage of jaw-dropping sights. However, make sure to stop at Eldhusøya, on an islet with a rest area that is circled by a floating footpath. Then stroll the 700-metre path and you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree ocean views.
Heli-fishing in New Zealand
Take your love of fishing to the next level with heli-fishing. And access some of the best fishing spots in the world by air. Heletranz Helicopters specialises in luxury expeditions across New Zealand’s Hauraki Gulf and surrounding islands, including Great Barrier, which is rich with diverse marine life. With an expert guide, scenic flights, a fisherman’s lunch and all equipment supplied, these tours are a unique opportunity to experience the ocean in total solitude.
Diving in the Arctic
Those who are prepared to brave the cold will be rewarded with unbelievable sights, sounds, and animal encounters with Aurora Expeditions. A dive beneath an ice-topped sea is an eerie yet colourful marine excursion attended by urchins, starfish and glittering jellyfish. Icebergs are seen from a fresh perspective, and a lucky few may even meet a graceful beluga whale, orca or an elusive narwhal on their descent. Aurora Expeditions facilitates this experience aboard its Arctic voyages, but it’s reserved especially for those holding Advanced Open Water Diving credentials with a minimum of 30 logged dives.
Swimming with horses in Jamaica
Horse riding along the beach is one thing, but swimming with horses is something entirely different. On the idyllic white sand shores of Montego Bay in Jamaica, the palm-lined bay is also home to Half Moon Equestrian Centre, which specialises in oceanfront horse riding experiences. While rookies can enjoy a leisurely ride along the coastal shallows of Sunrise Beach, those more familiar with equine interactions can remove the saddles and take their steed into the Caribbean Sea for a bareback frolic within the waves.
Antarctica by tall ship
You’ll need the hardiest of sea legs to set sail on this 20-plus day adventure, where learning the ropes takes on a whole new meaning. The only triple-masted tall ship to sail to Antarctica, Bark Europa is a hands-on experience where you’ll climb the rig, hoist the sails and help with maintenance – but you’ll be rewarded with endless ice shelves, dramatic turquoise blue ocean, glaciers, and extraordinary wildlife encounters, including whales, penguins, seals and all manner of birdlife.
Get strandard on a private Maldivian island
A Bedouin-style tent with a bathroom, a candlelit dinner for two and breakfast hand-delivered by private attendants – who knew being stranded on a desert island could be so delightful? Soneva Fushi orchestrates private overnight sandbank experiences for guests, gifting couples 12 uninterrupted hours of romantic bliss camping beneath the Maldivian skies. With nothing but the sound of waves gently lapping at the shore and the soft illumination of a pink sunset, this exclusive Robinson Crusoeesque escape is an island immersion like no other.
Be awed by Palawan
Philippines
El Nido is the gateway to the Bacuit Archipelago, a dreamlike paradise of white sand beaches, turquoise waters, coral reefs and spectacular limestone formations. Located on the northern tip of Palawan Island, El Nido is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Philippines and a known nesting ground for Olive Ridley, Green and Hawksbill sea turtles. The best way to see the region is an island-hopping tour on board a private catamaran yacht, exploring lagoons and jungle isles with El Nido Yachting Club.
Ocean adventures with humpbacks
Western Australia
From July to October each year, 40,000 humpback whales embark upon an annual migration along Western Australia’s coastline. While a whale-watching cruise is the most popular way to witness the journey of these majestic animals, it’s possible to swim (at a safe distance) among the gentle giants in the Ningaloo Marine Park. Growing up to 19 metres long and weighing up to 40 tonnes, the humpback whales set the terms for these intimate and exhilarating swim tours. As a result, encounters with the whales are authentic and ethical. Swimmers who visit early in the season may even see whale sharks and manta rays, too. The humpback whale swim tours operate from Coral Bay and Exmouth.
Submarine journeys with Scenic
Aboard six-star Scenic Eclipse II you’ll get a unique underwater glimpse via a state-of-the-art submersible. There are options to venture into the depths of the ocean in the Arctic, Antarctica, Caribbean, Mediterranean and Greenland. Prefer to be above the water? The luxury cruise liner has helicopters, zodiacs, kayaks and stand-up paddleboard excursions. And with awarded chefs and butlers, you’ll be left wanting for nothing.
This article originally appeared in volume 46 of Signature Luxury Travel & Style magazine. Subscribe to the latest issue today.
