From the shark tanks of Rio de Janeiro to the seabed of the Mediterranean, scuba divers are trading sleighs for oxygen tanks to deliver an underwater Christmas message this year.
In a now-beloved tradition at Brazil’s AquaRio aquarium, divers dressed in full Santa Claus regalia have been plunging into massive tanks to feed marine life and greet visitors. “Seeing the sparkle in the children’s eyes as they watch Santa dive with a shark is incredible,” said diver Felipe Luna.
VIDEO: Divers dressed as Santa Claus swim in the tanks of AquaRio, an annual tradition in the Rio de Janeiro aquarium. "Seeing the sparkle in the children's eyes as they watch Santa Claus diving with the shark is incredible," says diver Felipe Luna. pic.twitter.com/HOzeTfXT5l
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) December 23, 2025
The festive wave has also reached the shores of Cyprus, where the crystal-clear waters of Protaras hosted a more symbolic celebration. Divers submerged and decorated a Christmas tree on the sandy floor off Pernera, aimed at promoting the region as a year-round destination. The initiative, launched by the SCUBA Dive Cyprus training centre with the support of the Paralimni–Deryneia Municipality, carries the slogan: “Protaras: The Endless Summer.”
Footage released by local authorities shows a group of divers gathered around the small, decorated tree, while a “Scuba Santa” entertains by blowing sophisticated bubble rings toward the surface.
Similar underwater festivities were recorded in South Korea, where aquariums have integrated diving Santas into their holiday programmes to celebrate the season while showcasing marine biodiversity.
(Source: CNN.gr)
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