Book excerpt: An invaluable reference for professional and amateur divers, this volume presents the extraordinary richness of the underwater world in elegant pictorial layouts. Selected for their geographical settings and biodiversity, 50 of the world's best dives are described in detail by an editorial board of internationally renowned professional divers, and illustrated with superb photographs. Organized geographically, there are chapters devoted to the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean. An overview presents the outstanding natural features and unique characteristics of each region, followed by in-depth descriptions of recommended dives within each area. The distinguished editors present a thoughtful analysis of every dive site, including a description of the topography, typical species of fish likely to be seen, and highlights that make each site noteworthy, such as frequent dolphin sightings, rare species, etc. A three-dimensional reconstruction of the seabed helps guide readers through each site, while sidebars provide such essential information as maximum depth, level of difficulty, visibility, strength of current, and best time to go. Throughout the book, remarkable close-ups and double-page spreads depict the wealth of wildlife divers will encounter as they explore these exceptional dive sites.