Bigholiday

BIGHOLIDAY is a dive centre located in Miyakojima, Okinawa, dedicated to the exploration of the region's spectacular underwater landscapes. The centre focuses on topographical diving, guiding you through complex formations and dramatic underwater structures that define this part of the Japanese archipelago.

Designed specifically for recreational divers who have already built a solid foundation—requiring a minimum of 30 logged dives—the centre prioritises high-quality, personalised experiences. Whether you are navigating through swim-throughs or exploring large-scale reef structures, the focus remains on the unique geology of the Miyakojima seabed.

The team consists of four professional instructors, ensuring a high standard of guidance and safety. To maintain a personalised service and ensure close supervision, the centre operates with a strict ratio of no more than six divers per guide.

Instruction is available in both Japanese and English, making it accessible for international divers. The team is highly experienced in the local waters, with a specific focus on meeting individual diver requests regarding site selection to ensure your dives align with your interests.

A full range of training programmes is available for those looking to progress their skills. The centre provides instruction for Discover Scuba Diving, Open Water Diver, and Advanced Open Water Diver certifications.

For those pursuing a professional career in diving, the centre offers courses for Divemaster and Instructor levels. They also provide training for Rescue Diver, ensuring you can build a complete progression of skills through the standard certification levels.

The BRIENDS2 is the centre's dedicated dive boat, specifically designed to provide comfort for recreational divers during trips. The vessel features shaded areas to protect you from the sun, dedicated seating, and storage boxes for your belongings.

On board, you will find practical amenities including two toilets with bidets and two hot showers to rinse off after your dives. For those bringing camera gear, there are two dedicated storage spaces to keep your equipment secure. During the winter months, the boat is equipped with boat coats and hoodies to help you stay warm between dives.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of rental equipment for those not travelling with their own kit. You can hire a full set including a BCD, regulator, wetsuit, mask, fins, boots, and gloves. Individual items such as dive computers, torches, and additional light equipment are also available for hire.

For underwater photographers, the centre provides Olympus TG-5 cameras with waterproof housings (rated to 40m) for use during your dives. They also offer free use of weight and hoodies. The centre can also manage your personal equipment, allowing for pre-arrival delivery to the centre or cleaning and shipping services after your trip.

The waters around Miyakojima are home to a variety of large pelagics. Between May and November, you have the opportunity to encounter Manta rays (Mobula alfredi). You may also see various sharks, including Whitetip reef sharks (Triaenodon obesus) and blacktip reef sharks, alongside various rays (Batoidea).

The reef itself is a vibrant habitat, populated by many species of tropical fish, including Angelfish (Pomacanthidae), Triggerfish (Balistidae), and various species of Damselfish. You will frequently encounter sea turtles (Cheloniidae), including Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) and Hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata), navigating the reef.

Macro life and smaller inhabitants add further interest to the dives, with sightings of Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani), various pufferfish (Arothron hispidus), and Boxfish (Ostraciidae). Look closely around the corals and reef structures to find garden eels, sea anemone fish, and various species of colorful reef fish.

Planning your trip around the seasons can enhance your experience. June to August offers the best light for exploring topographical sites, while September to November is an ideal time for visiting the sites around Shimojijima. For those seeking more stable conditions and spring topographical highlights, April is a recommended month.

Divers should note that diving is not permitted on the day of your return flight. The centre monitors local weather closely and does not charge fees for cancellations caused by typhoons or poor weather conditions.