Scuba Diver Ocean Planet Issue 04/2016 | Page 84

BUDGET AND LUXURY Green Island is located in the southeast of Taiwan, in the Pacific Ocean, about 32 kilometres from the city of Taitung. Waters are usually very clear, often with visibility of more than 30 metres. Most of the shore dive sites are protected from the current and offer very easy diving. However, there are also shore-based sites with fierce currents and consequently richer marine life. Boat diving is also available. Whatever the wind direction, there are always sites protected from the waves making great dive spots to head for. The water on the west coast is clear and coral growth is healthy and abundant. Even though the main diving area is now protected from fishing, 18 there are not a lot of middle-sized or larger fish. Nonetheless, most common tropical fish can be found in the area so it still makes for a great dive. If you are ready for a bit of a swim you’ll find the “giant mushroom”, which lays claim to being the world’s oldest coral head. There is pretty much always abundant fish life around the coral head. The area further south offers very dramatic scenery and is good for both shore and boat dives. Bear in mind, however, that currents here can be quite strong. Close to shore you will find small caves and canyons for nice wideangle shots. Deeper, there are big gorgonian sea fans. The north coast also has a dive site which is protected from fishing. The scenery here is very