Tourism Board Announces the Second Annual Summer Event

The Turks and Caicos is committed to maintaining its scuba diving motto: "Take only pictures, leave only bubbles." From June 1 through Aug. 31, 2006, the Turks and Caicos Underwater Photography Competition challenges those who share a passion for the sea by capturing the unique beauty of the Caribbean's submarine scenery, according to Lindsey Musgrove, director of tourism for the Turks and Caicos Tourism Board.

"After the success of last year's inauguration, we are proud to once again host the competition celebrating the Islands' protected and undamaged coral reef system," said Musgrove.  "Visitors come from around the world to capture winning photographs of the destination's lagoon-enclosing barrier reef structure, spanning 65 miles across and 200 miles long.  There are limitless unique dive spots encircling the Turks and Caicos' 40 cays, so encountering picture perfect settings is inevitable."  

The pristine reefs and sea walls of the Turks and Caicos are populated by all imaginable species of tropical marine life.  Providenciales is best known for its Northwest Point Marine Park, which boasts striking black coral gardens covered in deep water gorgonians.  Snorkelers, scuba divers and photographers are mesmerized by West Caicos' unique purple tube sponge formations. Equally impressive are French Cay's photogenic scorpion fish that swim amidst the island's 6,000 foot vertical wall drop-offs.  Additionally, Grand Turk's manta rays and Salt Cay's playful dolphins are among the plethora of sea creatures inhabiting the Islands' turquoise water. 

"During the Turks and Caicos' mild summer months, when there is low rainfall and consistent oceanic currents, the ocean's crystal clear conditions are a photographer's dream," said Ralph Higgs, deputy director of tourism.  "The incredible visibility of up to 200 feet makes the sea floor's vibrant colors come to life in camera lenses."

The competition will award prizes in two categories: Amateur and Professional Photographers. Individuals participating in the competition can submit their entries to any participating dive shop or the Tourist Board's offices by Aug. 31, 2006. All entries will be evaluated by an expert team of judges.

Participants are encouraged to submit entries prior to departing the Islands to ensure authenticity.  For more information on the Turks and Caicos Underwater Photography Competition's rules; regulations and guidelines please visit its Web site at www.underwaterphoto.tc.

About Turks & Caicos

The 40 islands of the Turks & Caicos, of which eight are inhabited, are renowned for their award-winning beaches, diving and array of world-class resorts. Additional activities include tennis, golf and horseback riding. The Islands feature a variety of spa and body treatment services and is home to the world's only conch farm. There are three daily 75-minute direct flights from Miami, a US Airways direct flight from Charlotte, and weekly flights from New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Atlanta and Toronto. For more information on travel, visit the Turks & Caicos Islands Tourist Board Web site at www.turksandcaicostourism.com or call (800) 241-0824.