Safety · Destination Guide
Wreck-rich Caribbean diving with steady trade winds and easy logistics
Plan dives for the leeward coast, carry an SMB, and avoid the windward shore. Respect turtle nesting markers and mangroves. In an emergency call 911 or go directly to Horacio Oduber Hospital; contact DAN for dive-medicine support.
Horacio Oduber Hospital in Oranjestad operates a 24/7 Emergency Department at (+297) 527-4000. For dive-related incidents contact DAN's Emergency Hotline at +1-919-684-9111 for coordination with local care and evacuation if needed.
Boat traffic at wrecks
Deploy an SMB and stay alert near mooring lines and channels. Morning seas are often calmer.
Currents near channels
Spaans Lagoen and south-coast cuts can run fast. Time shore entries for slack and good viz.
Northeast surge
The windward coast has powerful wave energy. Do not attempt unguarded entries there.
Do Not Do This
Avoid entering when boat traffic at wrecks. Confirm local briefings before committing.
| Contact | Role | Phone | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Services | Police/Fire/Ambulance | 911 | 24/7 |
| Horacio Oduber Hospital | Emergency Department | +297-527-4000 | 24/7 |
| DAN Emergency Hotline | Dive Medicine | +1-919-684-9111 | 24/7 |