Harbor Reef / Pilot Boat

Type:

Scuba Diving

Entry:Unknown

Difficulty:Intermediate

Tags:

Artificial ReefWreck

About This Dive Spot

This site features the Star Gerren, a German-origin ship that was abandoned in a harbour in 1996 and later intentionally sunk in 2000 to create an artificial reef. During sinking operations the vessel settled on its side, and there are multiple openings that allow for swim-throughs.

Safety & access

Hazards, restrictions, and required precautions.

Hazards

Overhead environment

Safety notes

The wreck has openings and allows swim-throughs, which introduces an overhead environment risk.

Local intel

Community notes to help plan your visit.

Tailored notes for different activities.

Scuba

A sunken ship lying on its side with several openings, offering wreck exploration and swim-through opportunities.

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Spots Near Harbor Reef / Pilot Boat

📍 1.6 km

Airplanes (Wreck)

🏖️

This site features two decommissioned airplanes intentionally sunk as artificial reefs, offering a distinctive wreck-diving experience. One of the aircraft, a Convair 240 (about 74 ft/22.5 m long), now rests deeper than its original placement after being shifted by a hurricane. The wrecks attract abundant marine life, including nurse sharks and reef sharks, with chances of eagle rays and turtles alongside schooling reef fish.

📍 2.7 km

Sponge Reef

Not Set

Sponge Reef is a reef dive covered in large, brightly colored sponges across the site. Turtles are commonly seen here. Divers can expect a mix of Caribbean reef life including nurse and reef sharks, possible eagle rays and stingrays, along with fish such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper.

📍 5.2 km

Pedernales Wreck

Not Set

The Pedernales wreck is the remains of a flat-bottomed oil tanker that was torpedo-damaged in 1942. The site consists of scattered sections of the midship area resting in shallow water and has become habitat for a range of reef fish and rays.

📍 6.0 km

Barcadera Reef

⚓

Barcadera Reef lies off a harbor and is reached only by boat. It is described as especially well-suited for drift diving. The site features a varied reefscape with sandy patches broken up by multiple coral formations.

📍 7.0 km

Aruba

Not Set

Aruba offers a varied mix of dive sites, including multiple wrecks and artificial reefs created by intentionally sunk structures. Some sites even feature submerged aircraft as artificial reef attractions. Marine life is typical of the Caribbean, with chances to see sharks, rays, turtles, and a wide range of reef fish.

📍 7.1 km

Pedernalis (Wreck)

⚓

A shallow, mostly intact wreck dive that’s considered a fun stop. Its depth also makes it a very popular destination for snorkel cruises, so divers may encounter heavy surface traffic and large groups of tourists during descent. Marine life is commonly seen living in and around the wreck structure, adding interest beyond the wreck itself.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best entry point at Harbor Reef / Pilot Boat?

Entry at Harbor Reef / Pilot Boat is detailed in the spot description above. Look for specific landmarks, access paths, and any tide or condition requirements. Local divers often share updated entry tips in their dive logs.

What conditions are best for diving Harbor Reef / Pilot Boat?

Optimal conditions at Harbor Reef / Pilot Boat depend on several factors including tide, wind, and season. Check recent dive logs for current condition reports and patterns. Generally, calmer seas and high tide provide better visibility and easier entry.

What is the maximum depth and typical visibility at Harbor Reef / Pilot Boat?

Depth and visibility information for Harbor Reef / Pilot Boat can be found in the spot details and recent dive logs. Conditions can vary significantly based on weather, tide, and season. Always plan your dive according to current conditions and your certification level.

Are there any safety considerations or local etiquette at Harbor Reef / Pilot Boat?

When diving Harbor Reef / Pilot Boat, respect local regulations, marine life, and other water users. Be aware of any specific hazards like currents or boat traffic mentioned in the spot description. Follow Leave No Trace principles and local diving etiquette.