Press Digest 08th January 2007

Assist in one of the largest Whale Shark research projects ever undertaken in the Caribbean during a 10-day dive tour coinciding with the sharks’ migratory passage off the Honduran island of Utila, departing London January to April 2007.

Off its north shore Utila has the second largest barrier reef in the world with awe inspiring sheer walls dropping to over 1,000 metres. It is through this deep blue abyss that Whale Sharks navigate their passage, numbers building to a peak in mid-March when researchers engage in tracking, tagging and DNA studies. After expert instruction Dive Worldwide’s divers have the opportunity to take part too. During surface intervals a microlight aircraft is used to spot shark groups allowing research vessels to plot an intercept course. Having learned to identify specific shark characteristics guest divers are dropped into the path of cruising sharks. Scientists and marine biologists tag sharks and take DNA samples while guest divers assist by taking video footage or photographs and by logging individual Whale Sharks helping compile a complete portfolio of Whale Sharks in the area. Later, divers will also have the opportunity to become a certified Shark Speciality Diver.
Guests are accommodated at Utila’s Deep Blue Resort, reached only by boat and with no telephones or TVs it’s real escape! Although, if required free Internet access is available. Here, surrounded by coconut palms ten spacious, air-conditioned deluxe rooms, all with large private balconies overlook the white sand beach and the crystal waters of the Caribbean.

Holidays start from a basic £1,585 p/p to £2,145 p/p for the research dive programme including scheduled flights, 8-nights full board accommodation, 5-days of 3 boat dives inclusive of 2 night dives and unlimited shore diving, together with tanks and weights.