Diving in Eastern Caribbean
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Eastern Caribbean's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Eastern Caribbean, ecoregion. This region features 100 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Eastern Caribbean has something for every underwater explorer. Browse detailed spot information, check current conditions from recent dive logs, and connect with the local diving community to make the most of your visit.
Regional Context
🏛️ Marine Hierarchy
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in Eastern Caribbean (16)
🇦🇮Anguilla
🇦🇬Antigua and Barbuda
🇧🇧Barbados
🇻🇬British Virgin Islands
🇩🇲Dominica
🇬🇩Grenada
🇲🇸Montserrat
🇳🇱Netherlands
🇧🇱Saint Barthelemy
🇰🇳Saint Kitts and Nevis
🇱🇨Saint Lucia
🇲🇫Saint Martin
🇻🇨Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
🇸🇽Sint Maarten
🇻🇮United States Virgin Islands
🇻🇪Venezuela
Popular Spots in Eastern Caribbean (100+ spots)
1 / 4 Wreck (Stern Courier)
The 1 / 4 Wreck, specifically the stern section of the Courier, is located at a depth of 11 meters (35 feet) and is positioned upside down. The wreckage includes the engine block and scattered hull plates, remnants from its descent off a transport barge. Divers can observe various marine life such as barracuda, lobsters, shrimps, and nudibranchs. Occasionally, seahorses can be found among the soft corals in the area.
Alice in Wonderland, BVI
Alice in Wonderland is known for its distinctive boulder corals shaped like giant mushrooms. Advanced divers can explore the intricate spur and groove coral canyons that characterize this site. Look for lobsters and eels tucked away in the overhangs of the canyons, while the shallower rubble areas are home to families of yellowhead jawfish. Additionally, divers may encounter sharks and rays swimming in the vicinity, adding to the diverse marine life present at this location.
Alien Nation
Alien Nation features a mooring line at a depth of 14 meters, with the reef sloping towards the west and reaching a sandy bottom at 28 meters. The optimal diving range is between 15 to 20 meters. Divers can observe large barrel sponges, eels hiding in crevices, and turtles moving towards Sandy Point. Additionally, stingrays can often be seen resting along the sandy area at a depth of 12 meters.
Almond Tree
Almond Tree is a shore entry dive site located approximately 15 minutes from the harbor. The dive features a gently sloping reef, typically explored as a drift dive from south to north. The maximum depth reaches 21 meters (70 feet), with divers concluding their dive over shallow coral heads, which serve as a safety stop. The area is characterized by a field of gorgonian sea plumes, where divers can observe various marine life including trunkfish, slipper lobster, barracuda, and occasionally frogfish and seahorses camouflaged against the reef.
AMELIE
The Amelie is a wreck of a three-masted cargo ship that sank in February 1902. It lies at a depth of 10 meters and is accessible via a shore entry. This site is known for its diverse marine life, including various fish species, shellfish, and turtles, making it an excellent location for exploration, training, and developing diving autonomy.
Anchor Point
Anchor Point features a coral-encrusted French anchor, believed to date back to around 1750, recognized for its aesthetic appeal in the region. This site is home to a variety of typical Caribbean marine life and includes a designated cleaning station, which attracts various species for maintenance. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers.
Andes (Wreck)
The wreck of the barque 'Andes' is a three-masted steel merchant sailing ship that sank in Deep Bay on June 9, 1905, after catching fire. It was en route from Trinidad with a cargo of 1,330 barrels of pitch intended for road paving in Chile. The site is home to various reef fish and is often frequented by stingrays that can be found resting in the sand near the wreck. This historical wreck, now over 100 years old, provides a unique diving experience.
Angel Reef
Angel Reef is located at a depth of 11 to 20 meters, making it suitable for both beginner and advanced divers. Divers can expect to see a large population of angelfish, along with stingrays, lobsters, and squirrelfish. The site features a variety of coral structures and abundant marine life.
Angelfish Reef
Angelfish Reef features canyons and ridges, with depths ranging from 6 to 14 meters (20-46 feet). Divers can expect to see angelfish, spotted drums, lobsters, moray eels, and occasional shark sightings. This site is suitable for divers of all experience levels.
Anguillita
Anguillita dive site is located off the west coast of Anguilla with depths reaching a maximum of 18 meters (66 feet). It features walls, ledges, and small caves, providing good visibility up to 30 meters (100 feet) and minimal current. Divers may encounter sea turtles, stingrays, spotted moray eels, and spiny lobsters.
Anina (Wreck)
The Anina wreck is a flat-bottomed inter-island cargo vessel that lies on its starboard side at a depth of 31 meters (106 feet). It had been anchored for several years before it sank in August 2019. Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including barracuda, mackerel, Queen and French angelfish, as well as occasional sightings of grouper, squid, and grey angelfish. The site is also home to fireworms and blennies, contributing to the diverse underwater ecosystem.
Anse 3 airs
Anse 3 Airs is a dive site featuring the wreck of the 3 Airs, located in a small cove at a depth of just a few meters. The wreck's structure has been significantly displaced over time, yet it has become a habitat for various marine species. Divers can observe sand morays, local octopuses, and schools of cuttlefish in this area. Additionally, sightings of angel fish, parrot fish, and surgeon fish are common, making it a diverse underwater environment.
Anse à La Barque
Anse à La Barque features a prominent stone formation that extends approximately 100 meters along the coastline towards the west, with depths ranging from 4 meters near the shore to 23 meters. Divers may encounter young sharks resting in small crevices and seahorses found among barrel sponges at the dive's start. The site also supports a variety of macro life, including numerous flatworms, making it a unique location for observing species not commonly found in other areas.
Anse Chastanet
Anse Chastanet reef in Saint Lucia features over 150 species of fish, gorgonians, soft coral, and sea sponges. Divers can spot sea turtles, moray eels, octopus, and a variety of other marine life at depths ranging from 6 to 43 meters (20 to 140 feet). The site offers great visibility and low current, making it suitable for divers of all levels throughout the year.
Anse Christophe
Anse Christophe, also known as Ilet Christophe or Hermitage, is located outside the National Park and serves as the initial dive site in the Bouillante bay area. This site is less frequented compared to the nearby Malendure dive centers. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of Caribbean marine life, including royal and Brazilian lobsters, green morays, diodons, and French angelfish. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore the underwater ecosystem.
Anse Cochon (S)
Anse Cochon features a diverse reef structure, including walls, boulders, and pinnacles, with a maximum depth of 12 meters (40 feet). Divers can encounter various marine life such as juvenile fish, flounders, scorpionfish, sea horses, and cleaner shrimps.
Anse des Tortues
Anse des Tortues is situated at the exit of Bouillante and can be accessed from Anse Duché. The dive begins in shallow waters and features a vertical wall that descends to approximately 12 meters along the leeward coast. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including colorful corals, sponges, feather gorgonians, garden eels, and numerous reef fish.
Anse La Raye Wall
Anse La Raye Wall is located on the western coast of Saint Lucia and features a vertical wall with a gradual slope. This dive site reaches depths of around 60 feet and is home to diverse marine life, including stingrays, eagle rays, sea turtles, and various species of fish like jacks and moray eels, as well as corals such as barrel and soft corals.
Anse Négresse
Anse Négresse is a dive site located in Malendure, characterized by its gentle slope that transitions from corals to sandy areas. The site is situated under cliffs, providing a unique underwater landscape. Divers can explore a variety of marine life, including turtles, barracuda, and various small fish. For those interested in more elusive species, seahorses may also be spotted. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers.
Anse Thomas
Anse Thomas is a shore dive site located near the hot springs of Thomas. The dive begins at a depth of approximately 4 meters, where divers can explore a prominent rock formation featuring a canyon that attracts various tropical fish species. The sandy bottom is home to coral rocks, tubular sponges, and barrel sponges, alongside garden eels that can be observed in the area.
Aplysina
Aplysina is a dive site located at a depth of approximately 9 to 12 meters, characterized by a diverse array of rope sponges and other sponge species. This abundance of sponges provides numerous hiding spots for various fish species. Divers can expect to see angelfish, diodon, barracuda, and tarpon among the marine life present. The site is accessed via shore entry.
Aquarium Anse du Souffleur
Aquarium Anse du Souffleur is a dive site with depths ranging from 5 to 8 meters, making it suitable for beginner divers and training sessions. The site is rich in marine life, including species such as sergeant majors, grunts, trumpetfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, morays, crayfish, shrimps, hermit crabs, peacock flounder, and angelfish. It is also an excellent location for underwater photography and studying marine biology, as well as practicing underwater navigation skills. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Aquarium d’Anchorage
Aquarium d’Anchorage is a shallow dive site located approximately 15 minutes from the center, with a maximum depth of 12 meters. The site features a coral reef surrounded by white sandy areas, providing habitat for a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter species such as Butterflyfish, Damselfish, Sergeant Major, Balloonfish, Trunkfish, Barracuda, Lionfish, Wrasse, Grouperfish, Gruntfish, Squirrelfish, as well as Lobsters, Shrimp, Eiffel Crabs, and Flamingo Tongues.
Aquarium Gros Ilets
Aquarium Gros Ilets is located just 5 minutes from Gustavia harbor, making it an accessible site for beginner divers. The dive site features shallow waters starting at a depth of 2 meters and extending to 16 meters. The area is known for its calm sea conditions, which are ideal for novice divers. Marine life includes a variety of species such as tarpons, barracudas, lobsters, and sting rays, providing an engaging underwater experience. The site is characterized by a diverse marine ecosystem, often described as resembling an aquarium due to the abundance of fish and lobsters present.
Armageddon
Armageddon is a dive site located at a depth of 80 feet (24 meters), featuring remnants of the old Frederiksted pier that were relocated here after Hurricane Hugo's destruction. Divers can explore various structures, including beams, tires, and twisted steel. The sea floor reaches a depth of 101 feet (30 meters), and divers may encounter reef sharks during their dive. Environmental conditions can include strong currents, surge, and swells, with visibility typically ranging from 60 to 100 feet (18 to 30 meters). Entry to the site is by boat.
Avion Cessna 188
The Avion Cessna 188 wreck is located at a depth of 23 meters, positioned on the edge of coral reefs. Originally utilized for pesticide spraying on banana plantations, the aircraft was decontaminated and submerged in 2000 after being deemed irreparable due to an accident. The wreck now serves as a habitat for various marine species, including gorgonocephalus, spotted sandpiper, butterflyfish, angel fish, diodons, barracudas, and kingfish.
Babylon, Saba
Babylon is known for its dramatic overhangs and features a cave that provides opportunities to observe Glassy Sweepers and Channel Clinging Crabs. As divers explore the site, they will encounter ledges adorned with Deepwater Seafans and a variety of soft corals as they move seaward from the mooring point. The site is accessible from the shore.
Baie des Anges
Baie des Anges is located approximately ten minutes from the St François pass. The site features a sandy area with a coral drop-off, ideal for exploration. Divers can start their journey from the right side of the reef, where a notable drop-off is home to various marine life, including lobsters. The area is populated with a variety of fish species such as Cardinalfish, Gorette, Surgeonfish, Diodon, Moray eels, Angel fish, and barracuda. Additionally, crustaceans like lobsters and spider crabs can be found, along with mollusks such as the Caribbean flamingo tongue and sinuous Gorgonians.
Baie des Pirates
Baie des Pirates is situated approximately 25 minutes by boat from St François. The dive site features a sandy area at the mooring point, with a coral reef located to the right during the approach and return. The maximum depth at this site reaches 17 meters. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including Butterflyfish, Damselfish, Sergeant Major, Balloonfish, Trunkfish, Barracuda, Lionfish, Wrasse, Grouperfish, Gruntfish, Squirrelfish, Lobster, Shrimp, Eiffel Crab, and Flamingo Tongue.
Baleine de Gros Ilet
Baleine de Gros Ilet is located near Gros Ilets and features two notable shipwrecks at a depth of 20 meters. The larger wreck, the Non Stop, measures 63 meters and sank during Hurricane Hugo in 1989. The second wreck is a smaller fishing vessel known as the Dakar. This site is suitable for divers seeking to gain experience in wreck diving due to the shallow depth and accessibility of the wrecks.
Baleine du pain de sucre
Baleine du pain de sucre is a dive site located near the small rock formation known as Pain de sucre, reaching a maximum depth of 25 meters. Divers can navigate around the rock easily, ensuring a straightforward return to the entry point. The site is characterized by vibrant colors and a diverse array of marine life, with a notable chance of encountering grey sharks or nurse sharks. Additionally, there is a small canyon situated in shallow waters, providing an interesting feature for divers to explore.
Balise de Petit Canal
Balise de Petit Canal is located near the red and white buoy situated between Petit-Bourg and Petit-Canal. The buoy itself attracts a variety of marine life, making it an interesting spot for divers. Surrounding the buoy, divers can explore coral formations that host numerous species. Commonly observed fish include sergeant-majors, blue and gray chromis, damselfish, squirrelfish, snappers, porkfish, barracudas, stingrays, eagle rays, grunts, hamlets, groupers, parrotfish, hogfish, wrasse, and angelfish. This site is accessible from the shore, providing an easy entry point for divers.
Banc Médée
Banc Médée is a shallow reef dive site with a maximum depth of 8 meters, situated directly across from Marigot. The site features various breaks in the reef, ranging from 4 to 8 meters deep. Divers can expect to encounter barracudas, stingrays, and turtles, along with a variety of reef fish. Lobsters are also present in the area, contributing to the site's biodiversity.
Barracuda Point, Carriacou
Barracuda Point is located approximately 0.8 kilometers off the coast of Carriacou, featuring two volcanic peaks that rise from a sandy substrate. This dive site is known for its diverse hard and soft coral formations, which support a variety of marine life, including resident and pelagic fish, rays, turtles, and sharks. The site offers a unique underwater landscape that is characteristic of the Caribbean's best diving locations.
Barrel, Carriacou
Barrel is a shallow dive site characterized by a collection of small patch corals and substantial coral boulders. The maximum depth reaches 8 meters, allowing for extended dive durations. This site is particularly noted for its macro marine life, including seahorses, frogfish, and a diverse range of nudibranchs. Large sandy areas are interspersed among the coral formations, providing a unique habitat for various species.
Basse Espagnole
Basse Espagnole is a dive site located northeast of Saint Martin, featuring a reef that rises to a depth of 4 meters. The site is characterized by challenging conditions due to wind and swell. Divers can explore a canyon that measures 200 meters in length and 10 meters in width, which leads to a cave populated by glassfish and schools of creole fish. The marine life also includes sponges, corals, barracudas, sharks, and turtles. Access to this site can be difficult due to varying weather conditions.
Beacon
Beacon Reef in Anguilla features a diverse underwater landscape with a reef, steep cliffs, and small caves. The dive begins at a depth of 7 meters (22 feet) on a wide plateau with trenches that lead to a drop-off at 20 meters (70 feet), where you can explore the reef and observe various marine life, including small critters in the trenches.
Beauperthuis
Beauperthuis is situated just beyond Mahaut Point, heading towards Pointe Noire, at the base of the hospital sharing its name. This dive site is shallow, primarily within the 12-meter depth range, and is known for its diverse small marine life. Divers can encounter various species, including diodons and boxfish, as well as crustaceans like lobsters, which can be found on the sandy bottom or hidden in crevices. The site experiences low diver traffic, contributing to its well-preserved environment.
Bequia Head
Bequia Head is a challenging dive site characterized by steeply sloping reefs that reach a maximum depth of 40 meters (120 feet). This site is subject to strong currents and rough sea conditions, making it suitable only for expert divers and only under optimal conditions. A negative entry is required as there are no moorings available, and divers must utilize their own surface marker buoys (SMBs). The dive typically involves drifting along the reef, where divers can encounter a variety of marine life, including lionfish, rays, and sharks, as well as large schools of fish feeding in the area. Due to its distance from the dive shop, this site is accessed via private charter and is usually dived as a two-tank dive.
Bianca C (Wreck)
The Bianca C wreck, often referred to as the largest diveable wreck in the Caribbean, lies at a depth of 30 meters (100 feet) or deeper. This former cruise ship of the Costa line sank in 1961 following a boiler explosion that ignited a fire while it was preparing for departure. Divers can observe barracuda and schools of horse-eye jacks around the wreck. The shallower sections are adorned with coral and sponges, providing a habitat for various marine life.
Big Rock Market
Big Rock Market is a shore entry dive site characterized by a predominantly sponge-dominated reef with small coral formations. The area is an active site for scientific research, and divers are advised not to disturb any marine life or structures to avoid interfering with ongoing experiments. Typical marine life includes various reef fish and lobsters, making it a representative dive location for the region of Saba.
Black Forest - Grenada
Black Forest is characterized by its distinctive Black Gorgonians, which are prevalent from approximately 12 meters down to the base at around 21 meters. The site features numerous crevices and is home to large Orange Elephant Ear sponges that contribute vibrant colors to the reef. Divers can observe Black Cyphomas residing on the Gorgonians, along with a variety of marine life such as shrimps, crabs, and eels found among the gorgonian bases. Additionally, lobsters and porcupinefishes can be spotted hiding in the larger holes throughout the area.
Black Rocks, Carriacou
Black Rocks is located at the southernmost point of Carriacou and is the most remote dive site on the island. The site features a rugged formation of volcanic rocks that extend from the seabed to just above the water's surface. Divers can expect to encounter strong currents, which are typical for this area. The marine life is diverse, with frequent sightings of large schools of triggerfish, barracuda, and various shark species, including nurse sharks, blacktip sharks, and Caribbean reef sharks.
Blonde Rock
Blonde Rock features two pinnacles rising from 18 meters to 5 meters beneath the surface, with a plateau at 12 meters covered in gorgonians. The site includes canyons, undercuts, ledges, and is known for its abundant fire coral. This dive is accessible by boat.
Blue Chromis Reef
Blue Chromis Reef is a shallow dive site ideal for beginner divers and snorkelers, with depths ranging from 20 to 50 feet (3 to 15 meters). The area features rock formations near the shore that create overhangs, providing shelter for various marine life such as fish and lobsters. The gently sloping reef is home to schooling fish, including tarpon, black durgeon, and sergeant majors, as well as a variety of parrotfish like queen, princess, striped, stoplight, and redband. Additionally, blue and brown chromis can be observed in abundance.
Bogles Ridge
Bogles Ridge is located on the western side of Jack-A-Dan, a small island situated in front of Hillsborough Bay. The dive site extends along the reef wall to the north of Carriacou Island. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of small reef fish, including butterfly fish, damselfish, surgeonfish, squirrels, and groupers, among others. The site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers to enter the water directly.
Boss Reef
Boss Reef, originally known as Bass Reef, is a shallow reef system located outside Grand Anse Bay. The depth ranges from 20 feet to an average of 70 feet (21 meters). The reef features a variety of marine life, with a notable presence of larger species that were historically abundant before overfishing occurred. As you move towards the St. Georges end of the reef, you will encounter more stony corals, while approaching Quarantine Point reveals a greater diversity of soft corals and sponges.
Bouée Anticyclonique
Bouée Anticyclonique is a notable drop-off located within Guadeloupe National Park, featuring depths that range from 10 to 45 meters. This site is characterized by various hot springs originating from the Montserrat volcano. Divers may encounter a variety of marine life, including lobsters, crabs, and moray eels, which find shelter in the numerous hiding spots available. Nitrox is recommended for this dive due to the depth and conditions.
Boulder City - Grenada
Boulder City in Grenada is characterized by its unique muck diving environment, featuring large star boulders scattered across a sandy slope. The site includes significant holes in the reef, providing ample opportunities for divers to explore. This dive is particularly suited for those interested in observing small marine life, as it is known for sightings of various critters. Notable species include frogfish, seahorses (such as lined, dwarf, and longsnout), as well as shrimps, eels, crabs, and lobsters. The dive is typically conducted at a slow pace to maximize the chances of spotting these creatures.
Brightledge
Brightledge is part of the outer Pinnacle reef, oriented in a north-south direction. The site features a jetty at a depth of approximately 16 meters, with a typical dive profile reaching 18 meters for about 40 minutes. Advanced and Deep diver certified divers can explore depths of up to 40 meters. The southern area of the site is generally deeper, averaging between 3 to 6 meters more than the northern section. Marine life commonly observed here includes barracudas, crabs, and turtles.
Bronco Billy
Bronco Billy is situated at the northwestern tip of George Dog, approximately 12 minutes by boat from Spanish Town on Virgin Gorda and a few minutes more from Scrub Island. The site reaches a maximum depth of around 55 feet (16 meters). Divers can explore a colorful canyon along with various boulder formations, ledges, and mini walls. Marine life such as lobsters, eels, and shrimp can often be found hiding among the rocks.
Brown’s Bay
Brown's Bay offers a dive experience suitable for beginners and intermediate divers, with depths ranging from 5 meters (15 feet) to 15 meters (45 feet). The site features a gently sloping reef characterized by boulders, sea fans, and various coral types, including pillar and staghorn corals. Common marine life includes scorpion fish, moray eels, porcupine fish, trumpetfish, cowfish, and octopus. The current typically flows from south to north, making it ideal for a drift dive along the reef.
Buccaneer Molinere Bay (Wreck)
Buccaneer Molinere Bay features a sailing yacht wreck that was intentionally sunk in the early 1980s to create an artificial reef. The wreck lies on its starboard side, with the deck planking removed but structural supports remaining, allowing for swim-through opportunities for certified divers. The site is adorned with coral growth and serves as a habitat for schools of baitfish, along with sightings of invasive lionfish. Divers may also encounter barracuda and French angelfish in the area.
Buck Island Point (Submarine Alley)
Buck Island Point, also known as Submarine Alley, offers divers the option of a stationary dive returning to the mooring or a drift dive leading into Shipwreck Cove, concluding at a different mooring. The dive site features a maximum depth of 80 feet, with an average depth around 65 feet. The reef structure transitions from a westerly to an easterly orientation. Divers can expect to encounter large southern stingrays and curious Caribbean reef sharks during their exploration.
Cables
Cables is characterized by a patch reef that features an intricate network of cables interspersed among coral and sponge formations. The surrounding sandy bottom attracts a variety of marine life, which tends to gather around the reef. Common species in this area include nurse sharks, angelfish, barracuda, butterflyfish, sea turtles, and triggerfish.
Cabrita
Cabrita is a dive site located in Great Bay, characterized by an abundance of colorful fan corals. The site is relatively uncrowded, providing a tranquil diving experience. Divers can expect to see marine life such as nurse sharks and eagle rays. The maximum depth at this site is 15 meters (50 feet), and divers should be aware that currents can be present, particularly on the cross course. Access to Cabrita is by boat, with an overview picture indicating the anchor location.
Cabrita Pinnacle
Cabrita Pinnacle is located in Great Bay and is characterized by its shallow depths, making it accessible for divers of all experience levels. The site features a prominent pinnacle structure and is not widely known, resulting in fewer visitors. Marine life commonly observed here includes nurse sharks and stingrays, along with various macro species. The reef slope has several larger rocks that provide opportunities for exploration and discovery of smaller marine creatures.
Calf Rock
Calf Rock is situated within the Calf and Cow reef system and features a variety of underwater structures including overhangs, ledges, and canyons. The site is particularly noted for its shallow canyons, which contribute to its rich biodiversity. Marine life observed here includes lobsters, eagle rays, horse-eye jacks, and nudibranchs. Additionally, sharks are frequently seen resting beneath the ledges, enhancing the site's ecological diversity.
Cane Bay
Cane Bay is accessible from the north shore road at Cane Bay Beach. Divers will need to swim approximately 200 meters to reach the buoy, where the depth is around 7.5 meters. The dive site features a steep slope that descends to 20 meters, leading to a vertical wall that drops to depths exceeding 600 meters. Marine life includes occasional sightings of reef sharks near the drop-off. Divers should remain vigilant for juvenile drumfish in shallower areas and may also encounter the notable Carousel Horse. The site is adorned with black coral, barrel sponges, and sea fans.
Cap Salomon
Cap Salomon features a unique reef structure characterized by large boulders that descend into varying shades of blue water. This underwater landscape creates a sense of scale for divers. The site is frequented by large turtles and is known for the spawning of snappers. Additionally, spotted eagle rays and large puffer fish can often be observed in this area.
Captain Turtle
Captain Turtle is a dive site primarily known for sea turtles and nurse sharks. The site features a depth range from 6 meters (20 feet) to 20 meters (65 feet), making it suitable for both novice and experienced divers. Expect to see sleeping nurse sharks among the marine life.
Car Pile - Grenada
The Car Pile dive site in Grenada features a collection of abandoned vehicles that were intentionally submerged by the government in the early 1980s. This site is enhanced by the addition of used car tires, which help to stabilize the sandy slope. The dive reaches depths of 75 feet (24 meters) to 145 feet (42 meters), making it a deep dive location. Due to its depth and location near a Marine Protected Area, this site is not frequently visited, resulting in marine life such as Mahogany snapper being less cautious around divers.
Carib Cargo (Wreck)
The Carib Cargo, also known as the Carib Ghost, is a RoRo wreck located off the coast of Philipsburg. This vessel was damaged by Hurricane Luis in 1995 and subsequently moored for a year before being displaced by Hurricane Bertha in 1996. Today, it serves as a notable dive site in St. Maarten. Divers can explore the wreck and encounter various marine life, including schools of Trevally, French Grunts, and Yellow Snapper. There is also a possibility of spotting Stingrays, Reef Sharks, and Green Turtles, along with Spiny Lobsters residing in and around the wreck. The site is accessible via shore entry.
Carval Rock
Carval Rock is a prominent dive site located between Ginger and Cooper Islands, characterized by its exposure to ocean currents. The site features a large rock structure that attracts various marine life. Divers can expect to see Caribbean Reef Sharks, along with schools of Bermuda Chub, Creole Wrasse, Black Durgeons, and Sergeant Majors. The surrounding boulders are frequented by larger pelagic species, including barracuda and mackerel. This site is accessible from the shore.
Cathedral
Cathedral is a dive site characterized by a steeply sloping reef that begins at a depth of 5 meters and descends to a sandy bottom at 30 meters. Divers can navigate the site in either direction, depending on the current conditions. The reef is home to a variety of marine life, including nimble spray crabs that take shelter behind sea urchins, as well as juvenile trunkfish seeking protection. Schools of southern sennet, chromis, and jacks are commonly observed in this area.
Catheley H
Catheley H is a partially intact cargo ship wreck located at a depth of 18 meters in Crocus Bay, near Sandy Island. The 33-meter long steel structure has created a habitat for various marine life, including fish, spiny lobsters, octopus, and rays. The wreck was intentionally sunk in 1993 following a fire in 1992.
Caye verte
Caye Verte is a small islet situated within a nature reserve near Orient Bay beach in Saint-Martin. The dive site features depths ranging from 0 to 10 meters. It is known for its diverse pouting corals and is a habitat for various marine life, including fan gorgonians and stingrays. The area is protected and primarily utilized for scientific research.
Cement Plant
Cement Plant is a dive site located on the West Coast of Barbados, featuring a maximum depth of 30 feet. The site is accessible from the shore, allowing divers to navigate easily from the pier in a north-south direction, with options to explore eastward as well. It is suitable for both novice and experienced divers. Notable marine life includes seahorses, lobsters, tarpon, octopuses, turtles, stingrays, and lionfish, making it an interesting spot for underwater photography.
Champagne
Champagne is a notable dive site characterized by volcanic vents that release bubbles at a depth of approximately 5 meters (15 feet). This site offers a variety of diving experiences suitable for all skill levels, including a muck dive in sandy areas and the presence of an old cannon in the shallows. Divers can observe squid near the bubbling vents, while the sandy regions are home to species such as flying gurnards, razor fish, sailfin blennies, and nudibranchs. Seahorses can also be spotted in this area, making it a diverse location for marine life observation.
Charles L. Brown, wreck
The Charles L. Brown wreck is a notable dive site located off the coast of Sint Eustatius. This 100-meter-long vessel, originally an AT&T boat, was repurposed and sunk to create an artificial reef. The wreck features a 30-meter-wide passage, providing divers with ample exploration opportunities. Marine life commonly observed at the site includes various shark species, cubera snapper, and a resident barracuda known as 'Charlie.' The dive site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers to reach.
Charly shoal
Charly Shoal is situated in Simpson Bay and features a break in the rock formation with an average depth of 15 meters. The area is surrounded by sandy banks and is home to various barrel sponges. It serves as a habitat for a range of Caribbean fish, as well as reef sharks and turtles. At the end of the dive route, divers can explore a small wreck.
Cherry Hill
Cherry Hill offers a diverse underwater experience, starting at a depth of 2 meters and descending to over 30 meters. The shallow areas are characterized by Porites corals and regrowing Elkhorn corals. As divers venture deeper, they can observe seaplumes and a variety of hard corals. This site supports a wide range of marine life, including nudibranchs, stingrays, and barracudas, making it suitable for both divers and snorkelers.
Chico 1
Chico 1 features a series of small rocky canyons, with depths ranging from 12 to 21 meters. This dive site is suitable for divers of all experience levels and offers a chance to explore the diverse marine life of Tintamarre. Under the rocks, divers can find numerous lobsters, while barracudas, reef sharks, nurse sharks, turtles, and various Caribbean fish are also commonly observed in the area.
Chico 2
Chico 2 is situated on Tintamarre Island, approximately 30 minutes from Anse Marcel. This dive site features a coral garden that reaches a maximum depth of 23 meters. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including sleeper sharks, turtles, and rays, showcasing the diverse ecosystem of Saint Martin.
Chico 3
Chico 3 is a dive site characterized by depths ranging from 10 to 20 meters, making it suitable for multi-level diving. Divers can explore the drop-off or navigate through the Japanese Coral Garden. The site is notable for the presence of nurse sharks and gray reef sharks, as well as turtles that often rest within the Coral Garden.
Chien Tong, wreck
The Chien Tong is a 30-meter long wreck of a former Taiwanese trawler, which was intentionally sunk by the government after it was deemed irreparable. The wreck lies at a depth of 22 meters, providing a unique dive experience. This site is also notable for the presence of Hawksbill Sea Turtles, which can be observed resting here during night dives, making it a recommended time for divers to explore the area.
Chimney
Chimney is a notable dive site located in the Dog Islands, characterized by its unique underwater formations. This site features a long swimthrough that is home to a variety of marine life, including red-banded coral shrimp, eels, and numerous reef fish. Divers are encouraged to bring a light to fully appreciate the vibrant colors present in the area. The entry to this site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its rich biodiversity.
Christmas Cove
Christmas Cove, situated on Great St James, is an ideal location for novice divers. The dive site features a reef located in the center of the cove, which extends from a small rocky island. This area is designated as a No-TAKE zone, ensuring the protection of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of fish species, including southern stingrays, queen triggerfish, spotted moray eels, and blue tang. The site is accessible via shore entry, making it convenient for training and exploration.
Chromis Reef (middle)
Chromis Reef is a shallow dive site ideal for beginner divers and snorkelers, with depths ranging from 20 to 50 feet (6 to 15 meters). The area features rock formations near the shore that create overhangs, providing shelter for various marine life, including fish and lobsters. Divers can observe schooling species such as tarpon, creole wrasse, and a variety of reef fish, including blue and brown chromis, as well as different types of parrotfish. The gentle slope of the reef enhances the visibility of the diverse aquatic life.
Circus
Circus is situated on the northern side of Tintamarre Island and is known for its exposure to varying weather conditions. The dive site features a depth range of 15 to 20 meters, characterized by rocky formations, crevices, and caves. It is recognized as a habitat for nurse sharks, particularly during their breeding season, and is also known to host Caribbean hammerhead sharks.
Cistern Point
Cistern Point is characterized by its distinctive large, cistern-like formations within the reef. This site is often chosen for a second dive during morning trips due to its ample light, which provides excellent conditions for underwater photography. Divers can expect to encounter various marine life, including eels, nurse sharks, and tarpon. Additionally, it is advisable to look into the blue water for the possibility of spotting rays and sharks passing by.
Coki Point Beach
Coki Point Beach is located approximately 15 minutes from Charlotte Amalie and features a sandy beach entry. The dive site extends to the east with a maximum depth of 60 feet (18 meters) and to the west with a maximum depth of 50 feet (15 meters). This area is home to a variety of marine life, including Angelfish, Eagle Rays, Moray Eels, Triggerfish, Stingrays, Flounder, Reef Squid, Nudibranchs, Trumpetfish, Octopus, Tarpon, Jacks, and Parrotfish, making it suitable for both snorkeling and scuba diving.
Condo
Condo is characterized by a prominent rock formation situated on a sloping seabed, believed to have been displaced by volcanic activity during the island's formation. The site features numerous cracks and crevices within the rock, providing shelter for various marine life, including lobsters and crabs. Divers can also explore a sandy area populated by garden eels, along with swim-throughs that add to the site's diversity. Marine life highlights include sting rays, schools of grunts, and snappers, showcasing a mix of species associated with both sandy and rocky environments.
Coral Bowl
Coral Bowl is a natural depression filled with sand, surrounded by volcanic boulders. The area is rich in marine life, featuring gorgonians, corals, sponges, sea rods, and sea fans that are typically found in deeper waters. The dive reaches depths of over 21 meters (70 feet), making it suitable for intermediate divers. During dives, it is common to encounter resident sharks, stingrays, spotted eagle rays, lobsters, and octopuses, among other marine creatures.
Coral Gardens, Great Dog, BVI
Coral Gardens, located on the southern side of Great Dog Island near Virgin Gorda, features three airplane wrecks designed to resemble sharks, along with an artistic installation known as 'The Cathedral,' which is made from retired mooring lines and forms a sponge-adorned floating archway. Divers can expect to encounter various marine life including barracudas, turtles, and a variety of reef fish. Additionally, flounder and garden eels can be spotted in the sandy areas. This site is accessible from the shore.
Coral Gardens, Saint Lucia
Coral Gardens is a notable reef characterized by significant coral formations and a diverse array of marine species. This site is accessible from the shore and is known for year-round sightings of stingrays. Divers may also encounter eels, various reef fish, and vibrant coral structures during their exploration.
Coral Nursery
Coral Nursery is the location of the Saba Conservation Foundation's coral propagation efforts, featuring over a dozen coral trees primarily cultivating staghorn corals. The sandy bottom reaches a depth of approximately 16 meters (50 feet). Divers may encounter various marine life, including trunkfish, turtles, and rays. Access to this site is restricted to those with permission from the Saba Conservation Foundation.
Coral Nursery
Coral Nursery is located a short distance from the dive shop, accessible via a shore entry. This site features PVC structures designed to mimic trees, where coral fragments are secured with fishing line to promote growth. This artificial reef attracts various marine life, including trunkfish and shortnose pufferfish. Visitors can inquire about ongoing coral restoration initiatives or participate in Coral ID certification.
Coral Nursery, Carriacou
The Coral Nursery is situated on the southern side of Jack-A-Dan, with a depth of 11 meters (33 feet). This site features five tables where Elkhorn coral fragments are cultivated for future replanting efforts. It is an ideal location for macro enthusiasts, offering a variety of small marine life including shrimps, crabs, nudibranchs, and juvenile reef fish.
Coralita
Coralita is situated directly across from Philispburg within the Dutch reserve's golden triangle. The dive site begins at a depth of 12 meters (40 feet) and extends to approximately 18 meters (60 feet). The underwater landscape is characterized by a mix of hard and soft corals. Divers may encounter various species of turtles and sharks while exploring this site.
Corridors
Corridors is a dive site characterized by a finger ridge structure featuring soft corals and sea fans. Divers can enter from the shore and begin their descent at a shallow depth of 10 feet, progressing down to the sandy bottom at around 50 feet. While exploring, divers may encounter stingrays resting in the sand and eagle rays swimming along the reef. The area is also home to lobsters that can be found hiding beneath coral heads. Notably, divers will come across a significant expanse of Staghorn coral on their return journey.
COUCOUNE TOMBANT DE BARRERE
Coucoune Tombant de Barrère is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates 14.780900, -61.210300. The site features a sandy plateau interspersed with rocky areas, leading to a vertical drop-off that begins at a depth of 12 meters and descends to over 50 meters. Marine life commonly observed here includes garden eels, tropical live eels, yellow-tailed sardines, gorettes, squirrel fish, lobsters, and occasionally green or hawksbill turtles. This site serves as a fallback option in case of strong currents heading south.
Courier
The Courier site features sections of a wreck located approximately 1.5 miles from the shore, resting upright on the seabed at a depth of 45 feet (15 meters). This wreck, which sank in the early 1980s, is encrusted with coral and situated on a rubble bottom, providing a habitat for various small marine creatures. Divers can expect to encounter a range of unique critters, making it an interesting muck dive. Additionally, angelfish and cowfish are commonly observed around the wreck, highlighting the diversity of marine life present at this site.
Cow and calf
Cow and Calf is a dive site located in front of Guana Bay beach, characterized by its remote location in the Atlantic Ocean. The dive begins at a depth of 60 feet, featuring unique rock formations and expansive fields of gorgonians. During the winter months, divers may hear the songs of migrating Humpback whales while exploring this site.
Cow And Calf
Cow and Calf is a dive site located off the southeast coast of St. Thomas Island. The site features two large rock formations above the surface, with depths reaching 12 meters (40 feet) and excellent visibility of over 40 meters (130 feet). Divers can explore canyons, caves, and ledges, with possible current conditions to consider.
Cow Rock
Cow Rock is a notable dive site located in St. Thomas, characterized by small caves and swim-throughs, along with prominent elkhorn corals. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including lobsters, crabs, nurse sharks, turtles, and numerous tropical fish. The site is accessible via shore entry.
Craters Edge
Craters Edge is the final accessible point of the volcanic crater, featuring a prominent pinnacle that extends into the crater. This site is known for attracting a variety of pelagic species and large schools of fish. Divers can observe bar jacks, yellowtail snappers, creole wrasse, horse eye jacks, and occasionally tuna. Black margates and barracuda are also frequently seen. The surrounding wall is adorned with sponges and gorgonians, providing an interesting backdrop to the dynamic marine life. The entry to this site is from the shore.
Crazy coral
Crazy Coral is situated approximately 15 minutes from the central area, featuring a maximum depth of 20 meters. The site is characterized by extensive coral valleys, particularly a significant area of stag coral (Acropora cervicornis), which provides shelter for yellow tail damselfish. Divers can also observe a variety of marine life, including butterflyfish, sergeant majors, balloonfish, trunkfish, barracuda, lionfish, wrasse, grouperfish, gruntfish, squirrelfish, lobsters, shrimp, Eiffel crabs, and flamingo tongues.
Cross Over
Cross Over is a training dive site located in Guadeloupe, featuring a flat sandy bottom at a depth of 5 meters. This site is known for its seasonal presence of starfish, along with various fish species and green turtles that often approach divers. Additionally, the area contains old, sunken boats which serve as habitats for juvenile fish. It is advisable to use a surface buoy while diving here for safety.
Customs House
Customs House features a unique reef formation resembling a rectangular loaf of bread. The dive site begins with a sandy area that is home to garden eels and both southern and roughtail stingrays. As the reef slopes down, it transitions to deeper waters where drooping sponges and gorgonians are present. Divers should be attentive to the blue waters, as reef sharks can often be spotted passing by.