Tuvalu: Snorkeling at Funafuti Lagoon
Funafuti is a true coral atoll with a circle of coral rim surrounding an inner lagoon and forming many islets or motu as they are locally called. Global warming and rising temperatures with the El Niño effect have affected the coral reefs significantly, with over 70% being bleeched as the average water temperatures in and around the Funafuti lagoon rose to 32 Celsius. But there are still spots where corals are flourishing and in many other locations healthy corals are being replanted with species that are more tolerant of warmer waters, including the beautiful blue coral. The areas around the Funafuti conservation area are protected and there are lots of tropical fish swimming with you as you snorkel.