Hens and chiks

Type:

Scuba Diving

Entry:⚓Boat Entry

Difficulty:Intermediate

Tags:

Reef

About This Dive Spot

Hens and Chicks is an Atlantic dive site located between Sint Maarten and Saint Barth. It is known for frequent shark presence and sits in about 60 feet of water. Because it is exposed to natural elements, the site features hard corals and is associated mainly with pelagic fish life.

Planning details

Reported depth and seasonality.

Reported depth

18.3m+

Depth note

Reported to lie in about 60 ft (18.3 m) of water.

Safety & access

Hazards, restrictions, and required precautions.

Hazards

Dangerous wildlife

Safety notes

The site has a reputation for shark activity; divers should be prepared for potential close wildlife encounters.

Local intel

Community notes to help plan your visit.

Access, coral, life, crowds, and facilities.

Coral

The site is described as being made up of hard corals due to exposure to natural elements.

Aquatic Life

Fauna is described as consisting mainly of pelagic fish, and the site is known for sharks.

Dive Spot Log Averages

Average conditions based on logged dives & visits

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Dive Conditions Planner

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Spots Near Hens and chiks

📍 1.4 km

Pelican rock

⚓

Pelican Rock lies off the island’s eastern shore on the Atlantic side. When conditions allow, it is described as a particularly pristine dive site. The site features numerous coral formations and healthy fish life, with the dive starting around 60 ft. A notable feature is a pelican located on top of the rock.

📍 1.5 km

Cow and calf

Not Set

Cow and Calf is a remote Atlantic Ocean dive site off the area of Guana Bay beach. It is rarely visited and begins around 60 ft, featuring distinctive rock formations and fields of gorgonians. In winter, migrating humpback whales may be heard while diving here.

📍 1.5 km

One step beyond

Not Set

One Step Beyond is a reef dive featuring two pinnacles covered in colorful corals in clear blue water around 90 ft. It is described as one of the island’s standout reef sites, offering strong overall marine life viewing. The site is known for abundant fish and opportunities to encounter larger marine life such as barracuda, sharks, and rays.

📍 5.2 km

Fish Bowl

Not Set

Fish Bowl is a circular-shaped reef dive known for frequent fish life and large schools moving over the reef. Divers can expect a lively site with a mix of smaller reef species and passing predators. A guided route leads to a large swim-through near the end of the dive, where barracudas and reef sharks may be seen patrolling the area.

📍 5.5 km

Shark Hotel

Not Set

Shark Hotel features a reef at around 60 ft/18 m with ledges and ridges to explore. The site is known for frequent sightings of reef sharks. The reef is named after a shark commonly seen here, known as “Big Mama”. A nearby sandy area can also offer good chances to see stingrays.

📍 5.7 km

Mike's Maze

Not Set

A shallow reef site within a marine protected area, beginning around 12 m and featuring healthy coral formations. The terrain includes multiple maze-like swim-throughs and notable rock formations that can make navigation challenging. Sharks and turtles are commonly encountered here.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best entry point at Hens and chiks?

Entry at Hens and chiks 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 Hens and chiks?

Optimal conditions at Hens and chiks 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 Hens and chiks?

Depth and visibility information for Hens and chiks 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 Hens and chiks?

When diving Hens and chiks, 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.