Mexico’s Riviera Maya is well-known for its Mayan ruins and underground cenotes, but the snorkeling scene shouldn’t be overlooked. Here, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef (the second largest in the world) is home to 65 species of coral and 500 species of fish. It’s also a refuge for protected and endangered species, including several types of sea turtles, queen conch, and black coral. And for the manatee lovers in the room, this reef system has one of the largest populations in the world (between 1,000 and 1,500 of them). Position yourself in the sanctuary of Kanai, an exclusive development made up of a small handful of luxury resorts, including the covetable Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Photo: Courtesy of Celestia
Indonesia often tops world’s best snorkeling lists thanks to its intense marine biodiversity. It lies in the heart of the Coral Triangle and has over 17,000 islands, making it an aquatic idyll. Understandably, the more remote areas you reach, the more spectacular the setting becomes, which is why a Celestia sailing appeals to luxury adventurers. You’ll be positioned up close and personal with over 600 species of coral and over 1,500 species of fish, with kaleidoscopic color at every turn. Even better: Celestia enlists a marine biologist to guide the journey, so each snorkeling excursion is like its own curated underwater expedition.
The US Virgin Islands
Photo: Courtesy of Lovango Resort & Beach Club
