In the Avarua district of Rarotonga, you can see (even just from the shore) the sunken wreck of the SS Matai. This cargo ship, which sank in 1916 while transporting cars from the United States to New Zealand, has become a preferred spot for divers and is celebrated for its historical significance and the vibrant marine life that surrounds it.

One of the world’s greatest urban transformations, the Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2-kilometre-long waterway which extends from the Creek in Old Dubai through Business Bay, before finding its way to the Arabian Gulf. It effectively turns a significant part of the emirate into an island. Board a water taxi to Marasi Drive, home to a sparkling marina, water homes and cool dining venues such as Bella at Grand Millennium Hotel and BASTA! at The St. Regis Downtown.

Admire the city’s sparkling coastline from Dubai Harbour, a seafront district in Dubai Marina that boasts the most advanced cruise terminal and the largest marina in the region. With the ability to berth up to 700 luxury yachts and boats, the Dubai Harbour also features a 120,000-square-metre cruise facility with two terminals on a 910-metre long quay. The world-class maritime destination is already open for the public to explore, though new hotels, cafes, retail outlets and restaurants in the area will be opening in phases.

The Australian Seabird Rescue, Research, Rehabilitation and Coastal Education Centre in Ballina offers a comprehensive educational experience for people of all ages. Participants experience first hand the issues in their local environment. The interactive, hands on approach gives everyone an unforgettable experience that they can take home and share with others. All presentations include a one hour informative talk by one of their trained volunteers, as well as a chance to see wildlife that may be in their care. Animals that you may get the opportunity to get a close-up look at may include pelicans, other sea birds, shore birds, and even the fascinating and endangered sea turtles.