Peter Greenberg: Diving Fernando de Noronha

 

Fernando de Noronha, an archipelago more than 200 miles off the coast of Brazil, is well known as one of the world's most interesting spots for scuba diving. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's so gorgeous that Brazilian singer Bebel Gilberto said she carries a picture of it with her wherever she goes. Environmental measures have protected local dolphins, whose numbers are surging. Visitor numbers are strictly controlled by the government, so planning ahead is essential.

 

The islands are accessible via air from the Brazilian mainland (most flights depart from Recife).

 

One company to look into is Your Way, which is run by Adriana Schmidt, a dive master certified by the Professional Association of Driving Instructors. Her firm can help in planning a trip to the area. Check out the Web site.

 

Discover Brazil also offers dive packages to Fernando de Noronha. Trips include private tours, diving, a dolphin-boat tour, and horseback riding. http://www.discoverbrazil.com/vacation-packages/brazil/48/summary

 

One Caution: Fernando de Noronha isn't the cheapest part of Brazil;

in fact, it's one of the country's pricier spots. To contain your costs, ask about "pousadas," which are the local equivalent of B-and-Bs, but which offer three meals a day instead of just one.

 

Another great dive option nearby is the Abrolhos Marine National Park, about 45 miles offshore from the Brazilian state of Bahia. The unique area offers miles and miles of coral reefs and "chapeirao" formations, which for divers are fascinatingly odd-looking coral structures. It would definitely be possible to include both locations on one trip.