Never mind “New Year New Me” this year. The chances are that if you make any resolutions to change your life radically in 2023 you will have broken them by the 2nd of January. Instead, if you enjoy scuba diving why not considering have a totally new diving experience in an unfamiliar and exciting marine environment this year? Here are three diving destinations that you could consider exploring this year.

Antarctica

If you fancy a completely new scuba diving experience accompanied by a challenge in 2020 then Antarctica could be your dream diving location this year. As one of the most extreme environments on Earth it is a difficult dive due to low temperatures and overhead environments and should only be attempted by experienced drysuit divers. But once you have overcome the challenge and are under the ice you will enjoy one of the most unique dives available in this world.

If you’re properly trained then the continent and its numerous diving sites are your oyster. Once you’re under the ice you will have the once in a lifetime chance to swim alongside penguins, leopard seals, humpback whales, and a variety of gastropods in the most wild and untouched environment imaginable. From the popular spot of Petermann Island to the less travelled Wilhelmina Bay, Antarctica is bursting with sites yet to be seen.

Bali

If you want something a bit nearer to civilisation and want to enjoy an on-shore holiday alongside amazing dives then the island of Bali in Indonesia may be the destination for you. A popular destination within a country famous for its stunning climes and controversial role in the fashion industry – being a particular hub for the production of shoes – it’s an ideal destination if you want to experience some of the world’s best dives and then relax in some of the tranquil island’s popular yoga sites.

Image: Shahar Shabtai/Shutterstock

From Crystal Bay, to Manta Point to Liberty Wreck you can enjoy some of the Indian Ocean’s gorgeous underwater environments. Liberty Wreck especially is globally famous for its offer of a once in a lifetime diving experience, teaming with marine life near and on the wreck, perfect for some absolutely stunning photography. Unlike Antarctica this enticing and special experience will require no special training – it’s suitable for those at all levels of skill – and would be ideal for a well rounded trip of relaxation and diving.

Easter Island

While Antarctica offers the chance for a remote but difficult diving experience and Bali offers a great holiday combined with some wonderful dives for those of all levels, Easter Island may offer an opportunity for a diving get away for everyone. As one of the most remote places on Earth the marine ecosystem has been better preserved than elsewhere in the world and will give you the chance for some quiet, solitary diving experiences.

Between a huge variety of marine species, unique rocky seabeds, plenty of underwater caves to explore, and a number of the iconic island head statues which have been submerged by the seas, you will enjoy one of the best diving experiences of your life. Some of the most popular diving spots around the island include Hanga Roa Bay and its population of turtles, Moto Nui and the Moai dive site. Due to the temperatures a thicker wetsuit will be required, but a huge visibility of up to 200 feet more than makes up for that.