Shortly after I posted about John Boyle’s Three Favorite Dive Sites, I saw that the Independent Online had compiled a list of their Top 10 Favorite Dive Sites. Coming in in the top spot is Sharm El Sheikh, which features steep-sided reefs and current-swept corals. The Maldives ranks Second, and The Galapagos rounds out their Top Three. I was a bit surprised that Oman squeaked in at Number Nine, and that Turks and Caicos scored a Tenth Place finish. (Personally, I think there’s far better diving to be found in the Caribbean. And what!? No mention of the GBR anywhere?) Nosing around a bit, I found two other beautiful dive destinations, neither of which made the Independent’s list, but which might show up in the coming years.

First, Monty Hall recently had the chance to visit southern Mozambique’s Ponta Mamoli. According to Hall, the reefs in this region are characterized by low areas of coral interspersed with overhangs, small craters, and caves. Hall also managed to find something else among the “low areas of coral”: one of the area’s giant, thumping bass who compete with sharks for food and can strip an unsuspecting diver’s hand of its flesh! In my opinion, Hall’s narrative is a bit slow to get rolling, but it ends with a truly powerful punch.

Second, Paul Critcher claims that the diving in Mauritius is “enjoyable rather than spectacular.” But when it’s combined with the beautiful topside scenery and the comfortable accommodation, you have a remarkable vacation destination. Critcher’s is a generalized trip report that discusses the accommodation and topside attractions, too, although he adequately describes the diving and spotlights several key dive sites. Although not as adventure-filled as Hall’s piece, Critcher manages to carefully capture the serene attitude of Mauritius.

Anyway, if you’re hunting for a new dive destination for 2006, have a look at these pieces. Surely, one of them can offer you something you’ve never seen.