The beauty of the Turks and Caicos as seen from land is undeniable, with its powdery white beaches, crystal-blue ocean, and impressive limestone cliffs. But to truly appreciate the islands, one has to venture below the ocean surface. With its flourishing, colorful corals and a vast variety of sea life from dolphins to tropical fish, the Turks and Caicos is arguably one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world.

If you’ve never scuba-dived before, you’ll need to complete a PADI (Professional Association of Scuba Divers) Certification Course. You can start by taking the eLearning course online, which is then followed by three to four days of open-water training in the pool and out in the ocean. While you should be in reasonably good health to dive, it requires no athletic skills. All you need is the desire to learn and a passion for the ocean.

While scuba diving in the Turks and Caicos, be prepared to see a vast array of sea life, from tiny tropical fish to sea turtles and reef sharks. Miles of coral reefs—diverse underwater living ecosystems—provide shelter and habitats for many marine animals. At least 60 species of coral can be found in the waters of the Turks and Caicos, including staghorn, brain, and star, and pillar corals, all providing for beautiful scenery as you explore below the ocean surface. If you’re really lucky, you might spot dolphins, and from November to March, it’s possible to see and hear humpback whales during their annual migration to mate and give birth.

Ready to learn a new skill and explore all the ocean has to offer? For your scuba diving certification (and even if you’re already certified), we recommend Dive Provo—a local dive center that’s operated on Providenciales for more than 20 years. Get in touch with them to schedule your open water dives today at 800-234-7768 or 954-351-9771.