SSI - Your choice for certification

Humpback Whales are the greatest acrobats and singers among all the whales. They enjoy breeching, propelling their massive bodies out of the water and falling back in with a huge splash, slapping the water’s surface with their fins, and spyhopping. In addition to the sporty performances of these animals, their singing talent is second to none. One of the most magical moments that can be experienced by any scuba diver is to actually listen to the beautiful symphony of humpback whales while diving underwater. Their songs are very unique because they consist of complex, individual stanzas that repeat themselves. Humpback calves are even known to “whisper” to their mothers.

The muzzle of the great hammerhead shark is probably the most recognizable of all species as its entire body shape clearly resembles a hammer. Their heads are very unique in that its width is about 25% of the entire length of the shark. The specialized shape of their snout helps them to hunt, as it is home to electro receptors. This amazing sensory organ allows them to find prey along the seafloor like stingrays, octopus, smaller sharks, and squid. The shape of their head also helps them hold their prey with their snout while eating. It is impressive to experience these extraordinary animals underwater and get to admire their specialized physique. The best chance to dive with hammerhead sharks is in tropical and subtropical coastal areas.

With fins as wide as wings, manta rays soar along ocean currents like birds in flight, making them one of the most elegant animals of the sea. The name ‘manta’ comes from the Spanish word blanket and with a wingspan of up to nine meters, it’s easy to see how they can look like a blanket floating in the sea. Scuba diving with mantas is one of the most amazing experiences any diver can have underwater.

Most wrasses species have extraordinary, bright coloration. With over 600 different species, wrasses are as varied in size as they are in their brilliant color. They are identifiable by their elongated bodies, protruding canine teeth, and thick lips. It is fantastic to dive with wrasses and watch them swimming around coral reefs firsthand. These lively fish make coral reefs even more colorful.

Squid are intelligent animals that thrive in every ocean worldwide, including the freezing polar regions. Diving with squid is always a treat, as their rhythmic movements and electric coloration can be captivating. There are roughly 300 different squid species ranging in size, from the tiny bobtail squid, reaching only 10 millimeters (0.4 inches), to the giant squid, which can grow up to 12 meters (39 feet). No matter where you go diving, spotting a shoal of squid is always a possibility.

Shrimp is one of the most popular seafood choices on the planet; however, they are also just as fun to see in their natural habitat. There are nearly as many types of shrimp as there are ways to cook them, with approximately 2,000 different species. Part of the crustacean family, these relatives of crabs and lobsters are identifiable by their semi-transparent bodies, flexible abdomen, and fanlike tail used to swim backward.

Seahorse is the generalized name given to 45 of the smallest fish species in the Hippocampus genus. Their name is derived from the distinctive, horse-like shape of their head and neck. They spend most of their time anchored by their tails to coral and plants. Each of their eyes can move independently, giving them the ability to watch for predators and search for food simultaneously. These creatures are incredible, mysterious, intriguing animals. They are also very illusive so keep your eyes open and maybe you’ll be lucky enough to dive with seahorses.

Who doesn’t dream of diving with dolphins? Not shy and very playful, they are as curious about us as we are about them. What would be better while diving than playing with dolphins? These toothed whales are highly intelligent animals with a personality all their own, often living together in large pods. They exhibit many human traits such as mourning the dead of their conspecifics, learning from one another, trying to impress their females with gifts, joy, playfulness, empathy, etc.