From Europe to America
Located off the coast of Yonaguni, the southernmost island of the Ryukyu archipelago, this formation has sparked numerous theories and debates.
Opinions differ as to the origin of this layered structure, discovered in 1986. While some claim it's man-made, others insist that sandstone formations in tectonic regions are naturally shaped this way.
The original submerged bronze statue of Jesus Christ by Guido Galletti is located in the Mediterranean Sea, near San Fruttuoso. However, the statue's family has grown since its original installation in 1954.
Additional casts have since been placed in different parts of the oceans, of which the following two stand out: a second bronze statue was submerged near Grenada in 1961, while a third, placed in 1965, can be found off the coast of Key Largo, Florida, in the United States.
Known as MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte), this museum site opened in 2010 in an effort to save the area's coral reefs by providing an alternative diving destination.
The museum has about 500 art pieces, most created by British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor. But the works of Mexican artists are also showcased.
Located in Lake Huron in Ontario, the Canadian schooner Sweepstakes sank in September 1885.
This vessel is one of many shipwrecked in the Great Lakes. Unlike the majority, Sweepstakes remains accessible and can be explored by boat passengers, divers, and snorkelers.
The site of 23 nuclear test detonations between 1946 and 1958, Bikini Atoll opened to the public in 1996, after being deemed clear of radiation.
Divers who wish to explore the islands' famous post-World War II shipwrecks can only do so if they apply for a permit in advance.
Baia was a popular destination for Roman elites, such as Nero, Cicero, Caesar, and other nobles until the 8th century CE. It was often compared to a Roman-era Las Vegas.
The ancient resort-city was ultimately sacked by the Saracens in the 8th century, and by 1500 the place was in ruins. Due to volcanic activity in the area, which caused water levels to rise, what was left is now largely submerged. In 2007, the local authorities opened the site for diving activities.
Previously known as Truk Lagoon, this site is a must-see for wreck enthusiasts. As Japan's main naval base during World War II, the lagoon anchored the country's fleet during the conflict. The remains of these once mighty vessels can be seen throughout the lagoon's depths.
The wrecks are a result of an attack by the United States in February 1944—known as Operation Hailstone—which turned the lagoon into "the biggest graveyard of ships in the world," according to The New York Times.
According to cenotesmexico.org, this dive site in Tulum, on the Yucatán Peninsula, is officially known as Sistema Dos Ojos. It is home to the deepest known underwater cave passage, which is up to 387 ft (118 m) deep.
This extraordinary underwater cave system was featured in 'Journey Into Amazing Caves' (2001) and the BBC/Discovery Channel series 'Planet Earth' (2006).
The first of its kind, this ecological project aims to create new habitats for corals and marine life in order to preserve local reefs. Located off the west coast of Grenada, it is a unique endeavor.
For six decades, the mermaids of Weeki Wachee have been performing underwater feats to entertain curious visitors.
The show takes place every month at the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, located in Hernando County on Florida's Suncoast.
Located in the village of Tragöß, the lake transforms into a typical park during autumn and becomes a popular diving spot in spring.
This occurs because the park fills up with snowmelt from the surrounding alpine mountains as temperatures rise with the changing seasons.
Divers who want to swim between two continental plates need look no further than Lake Þingvallavatn, in Iceland's Þingvellir National Park.
At a rate of approximately 0.8 in (two cm) per year, this expanding rift is created by the convergence of the Eurasian and North American plates.
This mermaid statue, created by Canadian sculptor and diver Simon Morris, can be found 55 ft (27 m) below the surface off Grand Cayman Island. It stands at a height of about 9 ft (2.7 m) and weighs more than 595 Ibs (270 kg).
See also: Discover these US territories in the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean
Over 70% of the earth's surface is covered by water. This has created ideal conditions for numerous ocean ecosystems to thrive in. However, human activity has greatly impacted the seas, leaving behind a trail of impressive—and often heartbreaking—reminders of our presence.
To explore some of the most remarkable underwater attractions on our planet, submerge yourself and click through the gallery for a fascinating virtual tour.
Submerged sensations! Amazing underwater attractions to dive for
Get ready to take the plunge
TRAVEL Hidden
Over 70% of the earth's surface is covered by water. This has created ideal conditions for numerous ocean ecosystems to thrive in. However, human activity has greatly impacted the seas, leaving behind a trail of impressive—and often heartbreaking—reminders of our presence.
To explore some of the most remarkable underwater attractions on our planet, submerge yourself and click through the gallery for a fascinating virtual tour.