French Polynesia Expedition a Major Success

5th May 2005

A month of excellent diving in near perfect conditions has been labelled a major success by participants in the recent expeditions to the Tuamotu Islands north of Tahiti, French Polynesia.

The normal blustery South-East tradewinds were light which gave the expeditions vessel, the Akademik Shokalskiy, the opportunity to provide a stable platform during the 80+ dives that were conducted during the two fortnight-long expeditions.

The expeditions concentrated on the challenging pass diving on offer through the narrow entrances to the many atolls. With currents of up to 7 knots flowing into the atolls, divers were treated to some exhilarating rides in the clear warm water. Another attraction was wealth of sharks with Grey Reef, Blacktips, Whitetips, Silvertips, Nurse and Hammerhead species all sited during the voyages. On some occasions more than 400 Grey Reef Sharks were visible as they waited for food to be transported in through the passes on the incoming tides.

Other dives were conducted on the corners of the passes where feeding activity was at its peak, as well as several forays along the outer faces of the atolls. Divers enjoyed clear water (200ft - 300ft. visibility) and warm water (86° F). In addition to the diving, many trips were made ashore to sample the gentle beaches and good snorkelling opportunities available.

The expedition provided clients with the chance to dive in places that are ordinarily very difficult to access in a comprehensive package. The Akademik Shokalskiy has now departed Tahiti and is enroute for refitting in Shanghai before commencing further work in Russian waters.

Expedition staff are now undertaking reconnaissance and research activities to make final plans for the 2006 expedition.

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