Underwater photographer Tanya G. Burnett shares her list of the most unique, unforgettable diving destinations around the world.

Maldives

Far out in the Indian Ocean lies a scattering of jewel-like sand islands a few feet above sea level. Each one is graced with lush tropical growth and surrounded by countless reefs and a marine ecosystem of immeasurable richness. The dive conditions and marine life encounters are directly affected by the two weather seasons: the dry Northeast Monsoon and the wet Southwest Monsoon. Visiting during each distinctive period, a diver can bear witness to what a magnet the Maldives are to denizens of this vast ocean. Schools of tuna, barracuda, eagle rays, and sharks are common, while seasonally mantas and whale sharks are known to gather in spectacular numbers. And when you are not diving, the view in every direction is better than any postcard you can imagine.

Top: A pair of reef manta rays move in unison while they are being cleaned by cleaner wrasse at a coral cleaning station in Hanifaru Bay, Maldives.