ZuBlu Awards 2023

For many of us, Christmas and the New Year is a time of reflection and celebration, and what better way to wrap up an exceptional year than with the launch of our annual ZuBlu Awards - highlighting the very best dive resorts and liveaboards from across the globe!

How have we picked the winners? Each received the highest scores from guest reviews in 2023, or the largest number of reviews - our ZuBlu Choice Awards.

So without further ado, we announce ZuBlu’s best dive resorts and liveaboards for 2023.

And whilst we can’t give all of our partners an award, we think every one of them is a winner - and you can browse them all in our Collections.

Bunaken Oasis aims to redefine all-inclusive diving holidays in Bunaken by providing an opulent experience whilst keeping its ecological footprint to a minimum. With just 12 rooms, the resort offers sophisticated and personalised customer service, picture-perfect tropical surroundings, and a sublime concierge diving experience. Guests here will delight in little luxuries including gourmet chef-prepared meals, pampering spa services, a simply stunning infinity pool, and some of the region’s loveliest ocean-view cottages. Plus, world-class facilities for divers of all skill and comfort levels from beginner through tec, as well as underwater photographers.

Surrender to luxury at Atmosphere Resorts and Spa, where warm Filipino hospitality meets first-class amenities and service. Situated within an old coconut plantation, Atmosphere is one of the Philippines’ most salubrious dive resorts and the ideal choice for couples, small groups, or families looking for an incredible dive holiday. Bask in the spectacular beachfront location, alongside the warm coastal waters of the Philippine Sea, engage in enriching activities, or embark on some of the world’s most exceptional dive experiences.

Built along a pristine white sand beach and boasting a backdrop of green jungle and swaying coconut palms, Papua Paradise Eco Resort is a picture-perfect tropical hideaway. Enjoy glimpses of passing turtles, sharks and even dugongs from your large wooden veranda, or explore the resort’s stunning house reef at your own pace. You’ll enjoy all the comforts of home during your stay, with perfectly outfitted bungalows, delicious chef-prepared meals, and soothing spa services – plus, the legendary dive sites of Dampier Strait, just a short boat ride away.

Surrender to luxury at Atmosphere Resorts and Spa, where warm Filipino hospitality meets first-class amenities and service. Situated within an old coconut plantation, Atmosphere is one of the Philippines’ most salubrious dive resorts and the ideal choice for couples, small groups, or families looking for an incredible dive holiday. Bask in the spectacular beachfront location, alongside the warm coastal waters of the Philippine Sea, engage in enriching activities, or embark on some of the world’s most exceptional dive experiences.

Solitude Acacia resort is situated in one of the top muck diving destinations in Southeast Asia. Just three hours from Manila, Anilao attracts divers and underwater photographers from around the world in search of the rare critters that thrive in its calm waters. And, with Acacia’s premier dive service, expert critter spotters and state-of-the-art camera facilities, divers are sure to be spoiled with an unparalleled Philippines diving experience. Combined with its picturesque beachfront property and cool modern aesthetic, you’ll have an idyllic retreat away from hectic Manila life.

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is a rare gem of a resort tucked away in the distant, under-explored atoll of Huvadhoo. Promoting laid-back luxury, natural adventure, and bespoke experiences that are sustainable, local, organic and whole, Park Hyatt Hadahaa promises an idyllic private island retreat for couples and families alike. Indulge in exquisite culinary journeys at sophisticated yet casual establishments, restore inner peace with holistic wellness services, embark on self-guided exploration, or dive into Huvadhoo’s untouched ocean environments – including the 360-degree house reef.

Centara Grand Island Resort and Spa offers one of South Ari Atoll's most impressive private island experiences, with a laid back toes-in-the-sand atmosphere and five-star facilities for the whole family. Snorkel and scuba dive alongside whale sharks, discover one of the Maldives’ best shipwrecks, or earn your PADI certification on the island's house reef. You’ll feel perfectly relaxed with spacious colonial-style villas and suites, easy to explore paths and walkways, and a backdrop of sea and sand. Plus, with optional all-inclusive packages, you can feel free to enjoy spa and yoga sessions, inspired global cuisine, watersports offerings, and all day entertainment for kids and teens, without a second thought.

Designed by divers for divers, Dive Into Raja Ampat features all the services you'll need for the dive vacation of a lifetime. Relax and enjoy a serene jungle stay, with delicious family-style meals, secluded villas and bungalows surrounded by rainforest, and a remote location, kilometres from the next resort. Dive three times a day on Raja Ampat's most impressive reefs, home to sharks and manta rays, and go on adventures amongst some of Indonesia's most spectacular landscapes. And, trust that your private scuba equipment and underwater photography setup will be perfectly looked after with modern facilities and excellent service.

Meridian Adventure Dive is a luxurious tropical paradise, offering a tranquil escape into nature and unsurpassed access to Raja Ampat's top dive sites. This private retreat strikes the perfect balance between lush creature comforts and unspoilt scenery, with a pool complex, modern and minimalist decor, and indulgent spa services, all backed by mangroves and set to the sound of waves. Spend each day snorkelling, scuba diving and touring the islands, then rest and relax with delicious dinners, entertainment under the stars, and a restful night's sleep in your spacious room or authentic homestay.

We spent 1 wonderful week at Meridian adventure dive resort! The perfect balance between eco-friendly but also very modern hotel! Tips: by booking with Zublu diving agency, you have a super promotion of 1 night/2 dives for free for a week package (and the agency service is amazing too). Thanks to all the Meridian team (Jo, Dewan, Yigit, Simpson, Cahide, Arkan....) for this amazing diving holiday! Highly highly highly recommended! Maryline R

This exceptional family-run liveaboard was born from a deep connection with the Galapagos and a passion for its continued conservation. Completely renovated in 2019, Calipso Galapagos now comes with a stylish, contemporary look and warm, welcoming feel – the perfect atmosphere to complement each adventurous voyage. Dine on delicious all-you-can-eat buffets, soak up some sun in the Jacuzzi, and add-on extra enriching excursions as you embark on the adventure-diving holiday of your dreams – in total comfort.

Scubaspa Ying and sibling vessel, Yang, are the first of their kind – a unique concept of luxury liveaboards in the Maldives. Catering to both divers and non-divers, this award-winning floating PADI 5 Star Dive Resort and its outstanding team of 30 provide a service based on excellence – the epitome of floating luxury. From the opulent spa to the state-of-the-art floating dive centre, Ying promises the ultimate luxury spa and diving getaway while exploring the best dive sites in the Maldives. On board, you’ll wine, dine and unwind in luxury, while underwater, kaleidoscopic reefs and exhilarating channels pulsating with vibrant fish, sharks and manta rays await you and your partner.

Nautilus UnderSea offers some of the region's most comfortable dive voyages, with exciting itineraries focused on the eastern Pacific's most famous marine wildlife. Spend a week or more getting up close and personal with mantas, sharks and dolphins at Socorro and Revillagigedo, or head to Guadalupe - home to Mexico's infamous great white sharks. You’ll enjoy personalised service, cabins and common areas designed to suit every guest, and outstanding facilities for divers to help you make the most of your trip. This boat balances creature comforts with legendary underwater experiences, and with fewer divers than other vessels, it also boasts an intimate and adventurous atmosphere, ideal for underwater explorers.

Carpe Diem Cruises’ fleet of modern, spacious and well-appointed motor yachts offer a premier diving service in the Maldives. Born from a passion for Maldives diving, the entire fleet was crafted with comfort, convenience, and luxury in mind. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, and staffed by friendly, professional crew, all three vessels offer an unparalleled liveaboard experience throughout the Maldives. During each trip, guests can expect to explore the very best dive sites, with exciting routes and itineraries that take into consideration the changing seasons, and highlight the best of the Maldives throughout the year. 

Designed by divers, for divers, Jelajahi Laut is a brand new luxury liveaboard offering unmissable adventures in some of Indonesia’s most sought after dive destinations. Boasting beautiful wooden interiors, understated social spaces, and a selection of accommodation options - including two top deck sea-view cabins - Jelajahi Laut guarantees a comfortable trip, even in the remotest of waters. And, with a limited number of guests on board, each experience will feel totally personal and every memory will be cherished for years to come.