Cistern Point is an easy reef-and-rocky-point dive/snorkel site off Cooper Isla…
Cistern Point is a reef and rocky-point site off Cooper Island that’s known for crater-like depressions and larger hole-like features that give the dive its name. The terrain is a mix of ledges, rocky formations, and a ridge that can hold active reef life and cleaning-station behavior. A typical plan is a relaxed circuit around the point to visit the craters on the far side, then cruise back along the ridge. It’s commonly treated as an easier follow-up dive and is also a well-known snorkeling spot. Conditions are often described as calm with clear water, but they can change with the day’s weather and sea state, so coordinate entries/exits with the boat and stay aware of surface traffic.
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
3m - 12m
Depth Note
One source describes the site as a shallow dive and gives a depth range of 3–12 m (10–40 ft).
Typical Conditions
Often described as calm with clear water, making it suitable for relaxed dives and snorkeling; actual conditions can vary with weather and day-to-day sea state.
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Safety Notes
Because the site is accessed by boat and is also popular for snorkeling, use a surface marker where appropriate and stay aware of boat traffic when ascending or snorkeling near the surface.
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba
Well-suited to scuba divers, especially those interested in underwater photography in bright light.
Snorkel
Frequently described as one of the better snorkeling spots in the area, with calm conditions often reported and a gently sloping reef that can be explored at an easy pace.
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Directional shelter context for incoming swell.
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
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Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
Last Updated
Research Sources
CISTERN POINT - BVI DIVE MAP | Accessible by boat, Cistern Point is a shallow diving spot located on the western side of Copper Island, at a 2 minute boat ride from Cooper Island. The underwater topography includes craters, ledges and rocky formations that hide small fish and marine creatures. You will have the chance to spot shrimps, blue tangs, queen angelfish, […] | BVI Dive Map
Cistern Point | Top Snorkeling Site at Cooper Island | Cistern Point BVI – A lively snorkeling reef off Cooper Island’s southern tip, with clear water, coral, reef fish, and live streamed from the beach club. | Cistern Point
Scuba Diving Destinations - Cistern Point - BVI Diving | Find Out More About Diving Vacations in the British Virgin Islands with info on Scuba Diving Destinations - Cistern Point at BVI Diving.
Cistern Point, Cooper Island, British Virgin Islands | Yacht Warriors | Cistern Point in BVI, renowned for snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. | Cistern Point, Cooper Island, British Virgin Islands
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Cooper Island wreck cluster with four artificial reefs.
A gently sloping nearshore reef with small overhangs and frequent schools of ch…
Shallow Cooper Island reef with calm, fishy structure.
