Join Dive Worldwide in Oxford on Tuesday 4th October for a virtual tour of one of the world’s most pristine reefs situated off the tropical island of Onemobaa in Indonesia’s south-east Sulawesi. The free-to-attend evening will be led Dr. Richard Smith, an acclaimed photographer and expert in the marine life of the Coral Triangle region. During the Oxford evening he will uncover the vibrant activity found under Onemobaa’s calm waters which play host to fascinating and diverse marine wildlife.
Taking place at the Four Pillars Oxford Thames Hotel (Henley Road, Sandford-on-Thames, OX4 4GX) at 7pm, this sociable evening will be a great opportunity to meet like-minded dive and travel enthusiasts and share stories. There will also be a team of dive experts available to provide first-hand knowledge of the finest dive spots around the world.
Burford-based marine biologist Dr. Smith has been fortunate enough to spend several years at Onemobaa’s Wakatobi Resort where he conducted the first ecological research on pygmy seahorses. In August 2018 Dr. Smith will be leading a trip to Wakatobi Dive Resort for the clients of Dive Worldwide, the exclusive UK agents for the Resort. Constructed by local artisans using traditional methods, the Wakatobi Dive Resort embraces sound eco-tourism principles while offering modern comforts and top quality diving.
Wakatobi, widely considered to have one of the best house reefs in the world, is often described as a liveaboard with a built-in beach. There are several dozen easily accessible dive sites with incredible marine diversity; from miles of pristine, breathtaking drop-offs, walls and slopes to ridges, caverns, caves and seamounts. The expansive house reef, less than 100 metres from the shore, is considered by many to be the world’s most healthy and bio-diverse. The short swim takes snorkellers over a bed of turtle grass and isolated coral heads leading to the shallow drop-off, a colourful wall abounds with corals and critters. Highlights include frog fish, blue ringed octopus, blue spotted stingrays, ghost pipefish, gorgonians, sponges and a variety of colourful reef fish.
All will be welcomed to the Discovery Evening (from 7.00 – 9.30pm) where complimentary refreshments will be served. Places are limited and can be booked by emailing events@diveworldwide.com or by calling 01962 302 087.
To find out more about Dive Worldwide visit www.diveworldwide.com.
