scuba diving trips in caribbean

10 Best Places for SCUBA Diving in The Caribbean

Travel Advice

Updated: June 8, 2023

Prepare for your next Caribbean vacation by learning about the best places and islands to go scuba diving in the Caribbean that offer the most tantalizing underwater views and diving experiences.

While the beaches and restaurants are enough to draw tourists to the Caribbean, you may want to take your sightseeing to the next level by diving in the Caribbean. The breathtaking underwater views of tropical fish and coral reefs will make your Caribbean vacation an unforgettable experience.

When you go scuba diving in the Caribbean, you will have the opportunity to see the remains of shipwrecks, the colorful coral reefs, varieties of exotic marine life, and the underwater landscape. The warm, clear waters of the Caribbean make it the perfect place for scuba diving. While you can enter the deepest waters by dive boats and boards, novice divers have the option of diving right from the shoreline.

Even if you have never gone scuba diving before, you can still have an amazing experience by keeping it simple with drift dives that provide equally spectacular views. Scuba diving is an activity that you won’t want to miss out on your next Caribbean vacation. Here are some of the best places for diving in the Caribbean:

If you really want to connect with a variety of marine life, including sea turtles and whales, you should check out the scuba diving on Dominica Island, which is otherwise known as Nature Island. You can enjoy the unique jacuzzi-like experience of diving in warm bubbling waters courtesy of the geothermal vents caused by underwater volcanic activity. When you dive or snorkel in Dominica, you will get to observe and experience vast marine life, including seahorses and urchins.

Belize

This Central American country offers an amazing scuba diving experience due to the deep waters of the iconic Blue Hole which is one of the deepest holes in the Caribbean that drops down 400 feet into the darkest depts of the Caribbean.

While the Blue Hole is a diving location that’s best suited for more experienced divers, the views include unique marine life that you won’t find on any other dive. If you aren’t thrilled with the idea of plunging that deeply into pitch black water, the Half Moon Caye Wall is another awesome place for diving in Belize that provides views of eels and brightly colored coral reefs.

Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is the most popular destination for diving in the Caribbean out of all three of the Cayman Islands. If you are brave enough to dive deeply, the North Wall is a diving locale that’s loved by many, going as deep as six thousand feet and offers views of rarely seen marine life, such as the spotted eagle ray.

Once again, divers who aren’t keen on deep dives have the option of shore diving on Grand Cayman which offers spectacular views of coral reefs. If you are fascinated by history, then you may want to check out the notorious Kittiwake shipwreck that can be found fifty-five feet beneath the surface of the Grand Cayman waters. Another famous feature of the Grand Cayman diving experience is Stingray City where you can swim alongside thousands of tropical stingrays.

Of course, the Bahamas has made the list with its seven-hundred islands that offer several of the best places for diving in the Caribbean. If you are interested in underwater shipwreck tours, then New Province Island is the perfect place for you to dive as there have been numerous shipwrecks that occurred in the waters over the span of three centuries.

The Shark Wall is another great place to dive in the Bahamas that offers divers the opportunity to be amazed at the sight of some of the most beautiful coral in the Caribbean. Alternatively, you can swim through the vast barrier reefs of Andros, which includes the famous Tongue of the Ocean.

If you have become enchanted by the historical sight of shipwrecks and are fascinated by underwater landscapes, then Grenada is the ideal place for you to dive in the Caribbean. The view is the underwater equivalent of touring the Grand Canyon with its plateaus and drop offs that make it amongst the best locales for underwater exploration.

Shipwreck fanatics can investigate the wreckage of the Blanca C cruise ship, while marine life loving divers can swim through the waters of Isle De Ron to enjoy the sight of tropical fish and breathtakingly beautiful reefs and caverns.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

If you love exploring underwater landscapes and unique coral reefs, then you will thoroughly enjoy diving in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. In addition to traditionally colored corals, you can have the experience of taking in the sight of black coral reefs, and some of the most remarkable underwater cliffs and drop offs at Anchor Reef.

The Japanese Garden offers the most relaxing diving experience of the Caribbean that offers breathtaking views of sea fronds and corals as you swim along a naturally winding white sand path and take in the sight of tropical fish.

Although Bonaire is the smallest of its sister islands, the volcanic roots of this island resulted in the most pristine reefs that you will ever find in the Caribbean. If you are looking for a simplistic, yet beautiful and eco-friendly diving experience, you may want to try scuba diving in Bonaire.

When diving at Bonaire’s Front Porch you can swim alongside jawfish and eels as you follow the fifteen-foot reef and explore a historical sunken tugboat. While Bonaire may not seem to offer much when it comes to diving, most of its coral reefs have been virtually untouched by man making it one of the most natural diving experiences.

Turks and Caicos

If you are enchanted by the sight of coral reefs, then Turks and Caicos is the ideal place for you to scuba dive in the Caribbean as it boasts the largest coral reef system that includes expansive views of pristine reefs, tropical fish, shipwrecks, and even glimpses of whales during certain seasons at the Princess Alexandra National Park. The perimeter of this vast reef system spans sixty-five by two hundred miles making Turks and Caicos a scuba diving locale that you can continue to explore year after year.

The Virgin Islands

The Virgin Islands is another great place for diving in the Caribbean, especially if you appreciate the historic value of investigating and exploring notorious shipwrecks. The 1867 wreckage of the HMS Rhone is amongst the most popular diving destinations in the Caribbean, making it a wreck that you will definitely want to add to your sightseeing list.

Alternatively, you may want to check out the tiny island cluster, known as the Dogs, that offers views of a unique underwater landscape that includes reefs and caverns. However, the HMS Rhone is the attraction that draws the most scuba divers to the Virgin Islands.

Puerto Rico

A United States territory, Puerto Rico consists of a large island surrounded by tinier islands that are set aside a continental shelf. In addition to gorgeous coral reefs, the underwater caves make Puerto Rico the perfect place for diving and exploration in The Caribbean. If you are brave enough, you can even take the bold chance of swimming with the nurse sharks that lurk in the waters of Cayo Lobito.

But swimming alongside sharks isn’t for everyone. If you prefer to play it safe, you can enjoy the sight of the one of most colorful coral reefs in the Caribbean, known as Candyland. This highly recommended scuba diving destinations will leave you speechless once you witness the beautiful array of colored corals and sponges.

Candyland is a must-see attraction to add to your list on your next vacation to Puerto Rico . Although Puerto Rico provides some of the best beaches and most tasteful Latin cuisine, the true gem lies deep beneath the waters.

Final Thoughts

If you thoroughly enjoy scuba diving or are an amateur diver seeking to maximize the experience of your next Caribbean vacation, these locales are hands-down the best places for diving in the Caribbean. Although you can find stellar hospitality, beautiful white sand beaches, luxurious hotel accommodations, and delicious ethnic foods at many destinations throughout the Caribbean, there is only a handful of places that are perfect for scuba diving.

Sure, you can try scuba diving in any body of water throughout the world, and given the tropical location of the Caribbean, you will catch glimpses of coral reefs and tropical marine life at most Caribbean diving spots, but there seems to be a little compromise when it comes to the best places for diving in the Caribbean.

So, when you are packing your bikinis and swimming trunks to head out on your next Caribbean vacation, don’t forget to pack your scuba gear or at least inquire about places that rent out scuba gear at your desired destination. While there is much to love about Caribbean vacations, you are missing out on the full experience unless you tour the depths of the Caribbean waters.

The 10 Best Diving Spots in the Caribbean

So, you want to know where’s the best scuba diving in the Caribbean?

The white sandy beaches, swaying palms and sound of the ocean crashing on the shore make the Caribbean one attractive vacation destination. But, to top it off, it’s a paradise for scuba divers. The warm, crystal clear waters are home to hundreds of species of colorful fish and corals. Oh yeah, there’s also plenty of big ocean creatures to spot and sunken ships to explore. These are some of the best scuba diving destinations in the Caribbean.

GLOVERS REEF – BELIZE

Glovers reef is an unspoiled island off the coast of Belize. Being remote, it’s not a beaten tourist destination so it has some of the healthiest coral reefs in the country. There’s a wide variety of dive sites that are filled with hundreds of species of marine life and colorful corals to keep you entertained for a weeks worth of diving.

FREE DIVING WITH HUMPBACK WHALES – DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The clear and warm waters off Dominican Republic’s Silver Bank offers close encounters with humpback whales. Pregnant humpbacks come here every spring to give birth and to mate. Baby humpbacks are extremely curious and love to cruise alongside swimmers. While there are other places in the world to dive with these singing ocean giants, nothing compares to the quality and consistency of the encounters at Silver Bank.

TENT REEF – SABA

Tent Reef wall is one of the most popular dive sites off the tiny Caribbean island of Saba. Clinging from the wall you’ll see colorful mollusks, large barrel and dropping sponges. The sandy bottom of this wall is home to hundreds of garden eels, southern stingrays and razor fish.

DIVING WITH GREAT HAMMERHEAD SHARKS – BAHAMAS

Each February giant Great Hammerheads come to the waters of the Bimini Island. While these creatures are usually shy and reclusive, the ones that come to Bimini are curious and come close to divers. It’s no wonder that the Bahamas is the best destination in the world to see Great Hammerhead Sharks.

SHORE DIVING AT BONAIRE ISLAND

Bonaire Marine Park has a total of 86 dive sites, which are home to over 57 species of soft and stony coral and more than 350 recorded fish species. Bonaire is famous for being a great shore diving destination. That’s because the sites are very accessible and are a close driving distances apart. Some of the most popular sites are 1000 steps, Alice in Wonderland and Bari Reef.

FREE DIVING WITH WHALE SHARKS – UTILA, HONDURAS

Utila is one of the best places to swim with the world’s biggest fish, the Whale Shark. The months that they are sighted most frequently are March-April and August-September. Having said that, they are regularly seen all year around. There’s nothing like seeing this giant ocean creature appear out of the blue.

WRECK DIVING ON THE USS KITTIWAKE – GRAND CAYMAN

The USS Kittiwake is a 251 ft long, decommissioned ship that was sunk off the coast of Grand Cayman Island. The ship is in relatively shallow water and it’s upright. This accessibility makes the Kittiwake one the best purposely sunk wrecks in the world. Divers only have to travel 5 minutes by boat from Seven Mile Beach to explore this historic submarine rescue vessel.

DIVING IN COZUMEL – MEXICO

Amazing visibility, wall dives and abundant sea life makes Cozumel one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world. Palancar Reef, Colombia Wall and Punta Tunich are a few of the most popular dive sites around this island. There’s a good variety of both shallow, easy dives and deep, challenging drift dives which makes Cozumel a great choice for groups of divers with different experience levels.

DIVING WITH CARIBBEAN REEF SHARKS – ROATAN, HONDURAS

While spotting a shark is rare when diving off the island of Roatan in Honduras, there is one site, Cara a Cara, is full of Caribbean Reef Sharks. Cara a Cara means face to face in Spanish, and that’s just what you’ll experience at this dive site. Unlike some species of sharks, these guys aren’t shy and love to swim very close to divers.

FREE DIVING WITH SPERM WHALES – DOMINICA

Photo by Amos Nachoum from Big Animal Expeditions

Year around you can spot female Sperm Whales with their offspring along the coast of Dominica. In January and February, the males come as well, which make these months the best time to spot these ocean beauties. You aren’t allowed to use scuba but if you float on the surface, the whales might come close.

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Discover Our World-Class Caribbean Diving Holidays

Diverse locations that will make for life-changing dive trips

Diving in Caribbean

Scuba diving holidays in the Caribbean offer excellent diving opportunities for almost any skill level. As a premier dive destination of the world, the Caribbean has an eclectic range of dive sites, many types of marine life and consistent diving conditions. These three benefits make the Caribbean a place where you can enjoy some of the best diving experiences possible.

When you book your holidays with our great value dive packages you will also get the following benefits of our fantastic services:

PADI-certified instructors : All of our instructors have extensive experience of diving in the Caribbean and can offer first-class guidance for a fun and safe trip. You can also prepare for your scuba diving experience by taking one of our accredited training courses, which will fully prepare you for your holiday.
Amazing value for money : Our relationships with hotels and local dive operations enables us to give you the best value for money. With handpicked destinations we arrange everything on your behalf, so you can always make sure that your diving holiday includes the best experience at a great price.
All skill levels and groups welcome : Whether you are a beginner or an advanced diver, or perhaps would prefer snorkelling or another activity, we can cater to your needs. We accommodate single people, couples, families and groups of all experience levels and ages in a fun environment for all.

Scuba diving holidays in the Caribbean are easily accessed by UK airports, and dive boats can take you to a range of hidden destinations. Get a smooth and convenient booking with ATOL protection. After you get in touch with us we can find the ideal Caribbean diving location for your holiday, as well as other possible destinations.

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Places fill up well in advance so please contact us to book your place today. Here we will explore in more detail the best scuba dive sites available, the types of fish you can expect to see and the water temperatures and conditions you are likely to experience.

What Are the Best Scuba Diving Sites in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean offers amazing dive sites across a range of countries, including Belize , Bahamas , the U.S. Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands and many more destinations. As there are so many countries, dive sites and a vast geographical area it can be difficult to find the best ones – but we know the best dive spots in the region.

We include these sites on our magnificent trips, which include thrilling wreck dives, fascinating shore diving, exquisite coral reefs and many other amazing locations:

holiday spot in popular scuba diving location in belize

Cayman Islands : One trip takes you to the Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort in the Cayman Islands. Explore the Kittewake Wreck, which is a great first-time wreck dive and get to Stingray City, located just off the coast in 4 meters of water – ideal for beginners getting used to marine life.
Belize : The Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort in Belize is an astoundingly beautiful location above water, with many exceptional facilities and accommodations. Dive experiences include Glovers Leaf Atoll, a dive boat trip with incredible biodiversity, and The Blue Hole, an amazing sinkhole dive site.
Tobago : Another fantastic trip is to Blue Waters Inn, Tobago – a premier resort destination with a perfect blend of adventurous Caribbean diving holidays and a relaxing stay in paradise. With a 5 star PADI dive facility you can visit several safari, wall and wreck dives in one luxurious location.

While there is no official best dive site in the region, we visit some of the most iconic and pair them with the relaxed island life and friendly local charm of Belize, Tobago, The Cayman Islands and many other Caribbean destinations – such as Mexico. The best thing about Caribbean diving holidays is that they pack a lot into one package.

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What Types of Marine Life Can I See in the Caribbean?

As the Caribbean has a distinct ecosystem close to the equator, you can easily see a wide range of types of fish, plankton, coral and many other kinds of marine life when diving in the Caribbean. The tranquil waters are teeming with life and rife for diving, with a picturesque feel that allows you to connect with marine life.

There is a lot of room for a variety of experiences when it comes to safari diving in the Caribbean, with extensive onshore and offshore potential. You can expect to see some, but probably not all, of the following types of marine life:

Bahama sea stars
Blue marlin
Bull sharks
Caribbean reef sharks
Coral reefs
Great hammerhead sharks
Green sea turtles
Hawksbill sea turtles
Humpback whales

Nassau Grouper Feeding On Lobster In Belize Coral Reef

EVEN MORE..

Leatherback sea turtles
Lemon sharks
Loggerhead sea turtles
Minke whales
Nassau groupers
Nurse sharks
Pilot whales
Queen conch
Spiny lobsters
Tiger sharks
Various types of coral
Whitetip reef sharks

There are plenty of creatures to see out of the water too, including the world-famous Komodo dragons. The Komodo National Park will blow The interesting marine life is undoubtedly a major part of the Caribbean’s appeal when it comes to diving. You can get up close and personal with such an impressive range of species, from gentle giants of the ocean to the tiniest crabs. You will probably not see such a diverse range of species so consistently anywhere else.

Not sure where you want to travel to?

Compare diving locations and activities from all over the world, with our destination finder .

What Are the Conditions Diving in the Caribbean?

As a massive region with an exceptionally diverse range of cultures, counties and other variations, there are changeable conditions – depending on the dive sites you visit. However, overall Caribbean conditions are exceptional and will provide some of the best diving experiences possible – another key reason for its appeal to divers.

The following is some further information on the conditions you can expect during scuba diving holidays in the Caribbean:

Temperatures : The Caribbean’s equatorial position means that it has a quite consistent temperature outside of rainy seasons, which averages around 27°C, or 80°F. This very comfortable water temperature can allow even the most temperature-sensitive divers to enjoy their dive in total comfort.
Currents : The shielded position of the Caribbean makes currents much less vigorous than dives in other parts of the world. Expect exceptionally gentle currents at mild periods of the year in most shore dives, while dive sites that are offshore by way of dive boats are naturally stronger.
Visibility : One of the best experiences of Caribbean diving holidays is how far you can see. In good conditions in gentle waters of shore dives, you can expect visibility of around 30 meters! Wreck dives have less visibility due to obstacles, but many are quite shallow. Winter dives also tend to have better visibility.

Most popular diving sites including shore dives and open water dives have moderate conditions suitable for divers who have some experience. However, most beginners will thrive when expanding their skills in one of the most amazing diving destinations on the planet – with its favourable conditions and reputable dive sites.

Book Your Life-Changing Caribbean Diving Holidays

Ultimately the fusion of amazing dive sites, diverse and downright awe-inspiring marine life, favourable conditions and the friendly local culture of many Caribbean countries make it a dream destination. You can experience a huge range of diving holidays to fill a lifetime in the Caribbean, as it is a region so very rich in biodiversity.

We are experts in delivering dream holidays with great value diving packages, when you are on your trip after booking you will have no worries about the travel plans or accommodations – we take care of it all. Please feel free to get in touch with us regarding the trips we have discussed and other fabulous scuba diving holidays.

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The Best Diving in the Caribbean – 12 Islands to Explore

Picture white sandy beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, crystalline turquoise waters, and a wealth of exciting ocean creatures waiting to meet you. Sounds like something you’d enjoy? Then the Caribbean islands are calling your name.

If you’re looking for the top scuba diving destinations in the Caribbean, you’re in the right place. With so many countries and islands to choose from it can be overwhelming trying to pick just one. We’re narrowing it down to scuba diving around Caribbean islands.

Whether your ideal dive holiday includes sharks galore or off-the-beaten-track Caribbean authenticity, one of these 12 islands will definitely catch your eye!

1. Roatán

For those who like a hassle-free approach to dive travel, Roatán offers some of the best Caribbean dive resorts . Roatán, alongside similarly popular Utila, is part of the Bay Islands off the coast of Honduras .

Like a number of the other islands on this list, Roatán is located on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. It’s the second largest barrier reef in the world, with an abundance of incredible marine life to discover. The island offers a vast array of corals sprawled across shallow reefs and deep walls. Critter hunters will love searching for seahorses amongst other macro creatures.

Whale sharks can be seen whilst scuba diving in Roatan in the Caribbean

Fans of big underwater life won’t be disappointed, though. Whale sharks are known to visit the island between February-April and August-October. Wreck lovers must not miss the El Aguila.

If liveaboard travel is more your style, the Roatán Aggressor allows you to explore the best of both Roatán and Utila. This includes offshore sites Coco’s Sea Mount and Cayos Cochinos. These are considered some of the best sites in the area but aren’t usually covered by land-based operators.

Cozumel is an island located to the east of Playa del Carmen on the coast of Mexico. It offers dive sites for all experience levels, with crystal visibility down to the depths of stunning walls.

Countless reef fish inhabit colourful coral gardens, with spotted eagle rays, turtles and nurse sharks commonly sighted. There’s even the possibility of seeing bull sharks between November and March.

Yellow, orange, green, red, purple and brown sponges seen underwater whilst scuba diving in Cozumel in the Caribbean

Cozumel is well known for drift dives. It’s worthwhile brushing up on your drift diving knowledge if you’re a beginner to diving in currents. Newer divers could benefit from taking an Advanced Open Water Course or a speciality course to build confidence in their skills.

Bonaire is often hailed as the shore diving capital of the world, and it’s the perfect Caribbean island if you’re looking to curate a DIY diving holiday . Part of the ABC islands of the Dutch Caribbean (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao), Bonaire is located 50 miles north of Venezuela.

Rent a truck, head to one of the many drive-through tank collections offered by dive operators, and seek out the 80+ yellow stones which mark the island’s official dive sites. Top sites include Alice in Wonderland, Salt Pier, and the Hilma Hooker.

Octopus on a reef in Bonaire in the Dutch Caribbean

The Hilma Hooker is Bonaire’s only wreck dive, and although it’s possible to dive from shore, it’s often tagged on to boat dive trips to neighbouring island Klein Bonaire. Our full guide to diving in Bonaire tells you everything you need to know, including where to stay, what to pack, tips for diving independently, and how much it will cost.

4. St Croix

St Croix is the largest of the US Virgin Islands and is quieter than many other Caribbean destinations. With more than 50 dive sites to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice. Situated close to an incredible drop off, St Croix is perhaps best known for some of its plummeting wall dives.

Woman scuba diving alongside a bait ball of small silver fish being chased by tarpons in St Croix, Caribbean

Frederiksted Pier is another standout dive – divers of all levels will be enthralled by the macro life on the coral encrusted columns. For an extra level of excitement, why not try it as a night dive?

When you’ve seen all you can see under the pier, head to Butler Bay to experience wreck diving in St Croix. There are ships at multiple depths for different experience levels, the deepest of which is the Rosaomaira (also known as the Rosa Maria) laying at 35m/117ft.

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If you’re looking for sharks in the Caribbean, there’s one group of islands that should be top of your list. The Bahamas offer unbelievable visibility, stunning stretches of white sandy beaches, and if that’s not enough, an enormous variety of shark experiences.

Polaroid images show a tiger shark, a great hammerhead shark, and a Caribbean reef shark all photographed whilst scuba diving in the Bahamas

Depending on the season, you could easily hop from island to island and encounter a different shark species in each new location. Grand Bahama is home to Tiger Beach, which offers up – you guessed it – tiger sharks. You’ll also meet lemon sharks and the occasional great hammerhead.

For more guaranteed sightings of great hammerhead sharks, head to Bimini. If Caribbean reef sharks in huge numbers are more your thing, take a trip to Nassau.

6. St Vincent

The islands of St Vincent and the Grenadines which offer great scuba diving in the Caribbean

Located in the south of the Caribbean, St Vincent (along with the smaller islands of the Grenadines) is well known for macro diving. It’s often referred to as “muck diving”, although the Caribbean twist of incredible visibility makes it a little different from muck dives elsewhere in the world.

You can expect to find longlure frogfish and longsnout seahorses on these Caribbean muck dives, whilst other sites may still offer larger visitors such as Caribbean reef sharks, eagle rays, or even manta rays if you’re lucky.

Trinidad and Tobago both have a lot to offer underwater, although Tobago perhaps has the edge on its larger sister island as the visibility can be much better. Tobago also boasts over 50 dive sites to enjoy.

Most of eastern Tobago is a UNESCO “Man and the Biosphere” designated area including the Main Ridge Forest Reserve, the oldest protected forest reserve in the western hemisphere. With this in mind, it’s an ideal destination for the eco-minded divers amongst us.

Manta ray swimming in bright blue water seen from above

Gliding over the unspoilt reefs, you can expect to encounter plenty of schooling fish, lobsters, moray eels, and sea horses. Fans of larger underwater residents should be on the lookout for tarpons, barracuda, rays, nurse sharks, and turtles.

Underwater must-sees include the giant brain coral at the site Kelleston Drain (close to Speyside), and the Maverick Wreck. Since being sunk for divers in 1997 the wreck has become a thriving artificial reef. There’s even the chance to see manta rays in Tobago – sites around Speyside offer the best chance of these sightings.

8. Cayman Islands

If you’re looking for tech diving in the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands are where you need to be. Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac offer incredible topography in the form of deep drop offs and seemingly never-ending walls. Cayman Brac in particular is known for its walls, and is quieter and less touristy than the other two islands.

A woman scuba dives the walls of the Cayman Islands in the Caribbean

It’s not all deep dives with multiple cylinders, though. One of Grand Cayman’s standout sites bottoms out at only 6m/17ft. Stingray City is perfect for underwater photographers and those looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife .

Another not-to-be-missed site is the USS Kittiwake which was sunk for divers in 2011. Sitting at around 18m/60ft, this enormous wreck is crawling with life and is at the perfect depth for Open Water Divers .

Turquoise water and white sandy beach with lush green palm trees in Grenada in the Caribbean

Grenada and smaller neighbouring island Carriacou are quiet, volcanic islands in the south of the Caribbean with lots to see underwater. Carriacou is especially quiet and relatively untouched by mainstream tourism.

Grenada is often referred to as the wreck diving capital of the Caribbean, with 12 wrecks spread around the south west corner of the island. The Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park curated by artist Jason deCaires Taylor has also become a popular underwater attraction.

10. Turks & Caicos

The Caicos islands and the smaller Turks islands sit to the south east of the Bahamas. Expect incredible visibility, epic walls encrusted with sponges and corals, and a healthy population of Caribbean reef fish.

Whilst you’re examining the walls for macro critters, don’t forget to glance out to the blue. Open ocean species often cruise on by, including sharks and barracuda.

If you’re looking for a particularly special experience, travel between January and April and add a trip to nearby Silver Bank for the opportunity to snorkel* with humpback whales.

*(Diving with whales is prohibited in many locations).

11. Dominica

Dominica (not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, also in the Caribbean) is another quieter Caribbean island, perfect for those who love a more culturally authentic travel experience. The north is particularly untouched by commercial tourism, and has some incredible diving which shouldn’t be missed.

The Soufriere-Scott’s Head Marine Reserve in the south west of the island has the largest concentration of dive sites, with enticing volcanic pinnacles and sweeping swim throughs. Amongst the exciting topography, expect to see jewel toned reef fish and turtles cruising by.

Two women scuba divers on the side of a boat in between dives in Dominica, Caribbean

With a resident population of around a dozen sperm whales, Dominica is one of the best places in the world to see these gentle giants. However, like the aforementioned humpbacks they are protected, so can only be seen from boat tours.

For some of the best scuba diving Caribbean islands have to offer, holiday in St Maarten and tag on a trip to Saba. Saba lies to the south west of St Maarten, and is the smallest island in the Dutch Caribbean.

This volcanic island offers more than 30 dive sites to explore, with an assortment of drop offs, seamounts and pinnacles. Some of the offshore sites may be better suited to experienced divers due to strong currents.

Saba can be a sharky paradise, with common sightings of Caribbean reef, black tip and nurse sharks. If you’re lucky, you may even have a rare encounter with a bull shark, hammerhead, or tiger shark.

If you’re staying on St Maarten, you can even dive Saba as a day trip. Either take an early morning ferry, or a low-altitude flight which takes approximately 15 minutes. Although flying after diving is not usually recommended , countless divers taking this low altitude flight suggest that this particular flight after diving is safe. However, you should always dive conservatively and take the flight at your own risk.

St Maarten and Saba can also be explored by liveaboard .

Other Caribbean Countries

The diversity of countries around the Caribbean Sea is enormous, and it would be impossible to cover every single destination and island in one guide. Other larger Caribbean countries to explore underwater include Cuba, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Belize , and the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica .

Have you dived around any of these Caribbean islands? Which is your favourite, and which are you making note of for your future travels? Share your adventures with our Girls that Scuba Facebook community!

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Where to go diving in the Caribbean, from Belize to the Bahamas

The Caribbean is a haven for divers of all experience levels, offering diverse marine life, mysterious submerged wrecks, teeming coral reefs, year-round warm temperatures and excellent visibility.

There are few better places in the world for diving than the Caribbean. The clear waters teem with kaleidoscopic corals, vast shoals of tropical fish and iconic marine creatures, from whales and rays to turtles and sharks.

Add the glistening white beaches and alluring tropical vibes found across over 7,000 islands, and you’ve got the ultimate escape. Divers have the region’s unique geology to thank. The Caribbean Sea loops around a tectonic plate created by ancient volcanic eruptions, resulting in rich biodiversity and habitats woven through corals, currents and underwater canyons — from Belize’s Barrier Reef to the Cayman Trench. For all the life on the Caribbean’s islands, there’s a lot happening in the deep blue in between.

Whether you’re new to diving or looking for more challenging adventures, the Caribbean provides options for all ages and levels. Visitors can gain their PADI Open Water Diver qualification in two to four days in Cayman Islands’ balmy waters, while more experienced divers can opt for shark diving in the Bahamas, exploring Belize’s offshore lagoons or drift diving off the stunning coast of Honduras.

1. The Cayman Islands

Best for: beginners

The Cayman Islands are perfect for less-experienced divers due to a choice of hundreds of dive sites and the relative lack of strong currents. There will almost always be access to flat, calm stretches of water, and the reef is just 100 feet from the shore.

Where are some of the best spots for newcomers?

The west side of Grand Cayman is popular with families and travellers wanting to try scuba. Sunset Divers and Divetech scuba dive centres are located at either end of Seven Mile Beach, and are mere feet away from the reef. These short distances make wearing and managing unfamiliar and cumbersome dive equipment an easier prospect for beginners.

How long does it usually take to learn to dive?

The PADI Open Water Diving qualification is a two-to-four-day course, depending on whether theory is completed online or at a dive centre. Becoming an open-water scuba diver enables you to dive most places, as long as you’re accompanied by a qualified diving buddy. Visitors often complete the course at the beginning of their stay, then experience the freedom of boat and shore diving across the islands afterwards.

Where should I head to once I am certified?

The islands are surrounded by the Cayman Trench, so qualified divers can experience breathtaking topography from this undersea mountain range, as the seabed drops off dramatically into the deep. Looking over the wall on the west or north side of Cayman will take your breath away. Alternatively, the shallow dive sites in Cayman offer an abundance of marine life; you’ll feel like you’re swimming around in a tropical aquarium.

The USS Kittiwake, one of the best-known wrecks in the Caribbean, rests 64ft below just off Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach. Accessible for divers and snorkellers due to its relatively shallow depth, the 250ft vessel, which served in the US navy for nearly 50 years, houses an artificial reef and is a diver’s playground. Little Cayman is also a world-class scuba destination, flooded with dive sites in its Bloody Bay Marine Park. A shallow 20ft dive along the reef is an enchanting introduction to coral, fish and rays. Finally, there’s Stingray City off the north of Grand Cayman, one of the most impressive shallow dives in the world with hundreds of rays hovering around the sand bar.

2. The Bahamas

Best for: shark diving

The sprawling islands of the Bahamas offer culture, food, history and sharks — lots of sharks. In high season, between December and April, divers flock here to see imposing tigers and hammerheads, hoping to also spot some lemon, nurse, blacktip, blacknose and Caribbean reef sharks. This big fish magnet presents an adrenaline-charged challenge for new and experienced divers alike.

What are the best shark dives in The Bahamas?

Tiger Beach, located two hours north of Grand Bahama island by boat, attracts daily gatherings of sharks, which are safe to swim among on expert-led tours. At just 40 feet you’ll find yourself amongst scores of Caribbean reef sharks, up to 8ft long, plus a small handful of tiger sharks, 6.5-10ft long. It’s an amazing sight, watching them interacting with each other in open water.The Bimini Hammerhead dive off Bimini Island is one of the most unique underwater experiences. Instantly recognisable by their distinctive mallet-shaped heads and bulging eye sockets, hammerhead sharks glide and swerve in a graceful dance.

What certification is needed for these spots?

To join any dive tour or trip you’ll need to have your PADI or SSI Open Water Diver qualification. To feel more confident in open water, at depth, or on multi-tank trips you might also want to complete the Advanced Open Water Diver course.

What other kinds of diving are on offer?

The SS Sapona, just off Bimini, is a great first wreck dive for newly certified divers due to its shallow depth. Since being struck by a hurricane in 1926, its striking silhouette stands up out of the water. Divers can weave through the haunting hull structure, which now resembles a hollowed-out rib cage, spotting trigger fish, grunts and lobsters.

3. Belize & Honduras

Best for: a challenge

While stronger currents provide exciting diving in the eastern Caribbean, the western pocket of the region — next to Belize and Honduras — is not to be missed. This is where you can find challenging drift diving, wall drop offs, whale shark spotting and seamount (underwater mountain) diving. Three atolls and the longest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere means lots of scuba tank refills, full log books and dive fever.

What’s drift diving?

Put simply, it’s diving with the current, a potentially daunting experience that’s best attempted with a PADI Advanced Open Water certification under your belt. The Morat Wall, in the Bay Islands of Honduras, carries divers along three spectacular miles of offshore reef through huge kaleidoscopic brain corals. Then there are the seamounts of Cayos Cochinos — 18 miles off the coast of the Honduran island of Roatán — which offer a dizzying deep reef dive with strong currents. These spectacular underwater mountain ranges have become an enchanting shelter and refuge for massive eagle rays, Creole wrasse and abundant pelagic life.

What’s the best way of diving the three Belizean atolls?

Belize is home to the great Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and some of the healthiest coral in the Caribbean. From the mainland, divers ride out to the deep blue lagoons of Lighthouse Reef Atoll, Glover’s Reef Atoll and Turneffe Atoll.

A multi-dive day at Lighthouse Reef Atoll starts at the famous Great Blue Hole. The 100ft-wide marine sinkhole plunges into oblivion and divers come face to face with some of the largest underwater stalactites on the planet. At Half Moon Caye, divers will find swim-throughs dotted with tiny silverfish, black corals, eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, vivid sponges and, occasionally, even dolphins. The Aquarium dive site at Long Caye is a popular final destination, where colours deepen at sunset as you peer over the edge of the underwater abyss.

At Glover’s Reef Atoll, dive trips start at the Pinnacles site where enormous coral heads rise 4o feet from the seabed, creating multicoloured, extraterrestrial-like statues. Long Caye Wall dive site then descends to a platform of bright white sand where stingrays and garden eels await.

The Turneffe Islands Atoll, closet to the Belize mainland, is known for its mangroves and shallow sea gardens, making it a gift for scuba divers. Another full day here takes in the Elbow, a spot where two currents meet, resulting in abundant marine life, unique coral formations and underwater walls. These three atolls offer packed days of energetic diving for experienced divers.

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Liveaboards in The Caribbean

With an area of over 1 million square miles, the warm clear waters of the Caribbean offer a breathtaking array of underwater adventures and are an excellent first-time liveaboard option. Just as each of the 30-plus island nations enjoys its own individual charm, so the diving varies widely to suit all levels and tastes.

Find out why the Caribbean is one of our Best Liveaboard destinations.

There are dozens of liveaboards available throughout the Caribbean, offering everything from 6-night to 14-night itineraries to suit all manner of budgets. Here are some of the most popular liveaboard areas in the Caribbean.

The Bahamas archipelago is a popular year-round liveaboard destination. Known for its excellent visibility, great coral reefs, and dive site diversity, we also consider Tiger Beach in the Bahamas to be one of the world's best locations for shark diving . With over 700 islands to discover, visiting by liveaboard is the best way to experience the Bahamas.

Interested in corals? Read about the best coral reefs in the world .

Belize is a lesser-known dive destination offering enormously varied diving on fringing reefs, protected within the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System . It is described as one of the most pristine reef ecosystems in the Western Hemisphere, and the best way to experience this country’s unique coastline is by liveaboard.

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) , officially the Virgin Islands, are a British overseas territory located in the Caribbean to the east of Puerto Rico. BVI are a collection of 60 unspoiled islands that pack the best of the Caribbean into one convenient destination. From the culture and history of BVI’s four largest islands to the pristine natural splendor of more than 50 smaller isles, every place offers its own special magic.

The Cayman Islands offer a fantastic diversity of diving to suit all levels, with some of the best marine life in the Caribbean. The largest of the three islands, Grand Cayman lies the furthest west, while Little Cayman and Cayman Brac sit 75 miles to the east. As such, exploring via liveaboard is the easiest way to discover the best of all three islands in one trip.

Year-round diving is possible amongst Saba ’s intriguing underwater volcanic topography. The marine life around Saba Marine Park’s 30 dive sites is unique and diverse, and divers can expect to spot hawksbill turtles, stingrays, sharks, and lots of colorful tropical fish. The island is characterized by steep cliffs and a lack of beaches, so access by liveaboard is a great option.

Click here to read about the Best Shark Diving in the World .

Silver Bank, Dominican Republic

One of only three places in the world where visitors can safely snorkel with humpback whales , trips to the Silver Bank are tightly regulated to protect these awesome giants. As such only a few liveaboards visit between January and April each year, and places onboard are heavily contested.

Interested in whales? Learn all about diving in Moorea .

Turks and Caicos is a year-round scuba diving destination, boasting some of the best wall dives in the Caribbean. One of the islands' main draws is the abundance of sea turtles. This group of islands also hosts a thriving underwater ecosystem with marine species such as orange elephant ear sponges, grey reef sharks, angelfish, eagle rays, and nurse sharks, not to mention great macro life .

Interested in macro photography? Check out our article on the "Macro Heaven," Anilao .

Start planning your perfect liveaboard trip!

1. Already know where to go? Use our live availability search tool , and select your date range and boat to find your next trip and click on ' Booking Request' to submit your booking.

2. Want to pick a boat first? Go to full list and reviews of liveaboards in Caribbean available at Bluewater Travel.

3. Not sure where to dive or when to go? Go to our liveaboard diving season and area guide .

4. Need assistance? Contact us . Our travel advisors can recommend the right destination and boat based on your requirements and preferences.

Looking for a land-based option? View our selection of dive resorts in Caribbean .

Find a Liveaboard in THE caribbean

Best price guaranteed. No credit card fees. Live chat support available!

Need more options? Can't see the boat you're looking for? Scroll down for the full list of liveaboards available at Bluewater Travel.

Please contact us for the availability of the following liveaboards: MV Shear Water and Phoenix Liveaboard .

Email us or write to us through the live chat box for booking assistance.

The rates shown below are per person in USD. Some of the operators quote in other currencies and the pricing at the time of booking may vary depending on the latest exchange rates.

caribbean liveaboard diving

DIving season

The majority of Caribbean destinations are diveable year-round, however, hurricane season runs from June through to November, and only the southernmost islands fall outside the hurricane belt. While there is quite a low chance of being affected by a storm, rates tend to be cheaper and there are fewer visitors during this time, so don’t discount it as an option.

Peak tourist season is from December until April, and many of the big tourist resorts such as Cozumel and Grand Cayman can be pretty crowded. If you are planning to spend some time ashore before or after your trip, make sure to research and book ahead so as not to be disappointed.

Liveaboards in The caribbean

Bluewater Travel can help you book a liveaboard in the Caribbean and 40+ destinations worldwide at the same price or even lower than booking any other way. We know the boats, cabins, diving, and logistics better than anyone else in the industry. Email us today or leave us a message through the live chat box to start planning your dream dive vacation in the Caribbean!

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10 Best Caribbean Diving Spots

Clear blue water, stunning wall dives, and colorful marine life are some of the biggest reasons why the Caribbean is such a popular area for diving adventures. If you’re an avid diver, you’re probably wondering which is the best Caribbean diving spot.

This depends on what you’re looking for, as you can find shore diving options for beginners, deep wrecks for adventure seekers, and plenty of marine life for animal lovers. To help you find the perfect one for you, here is our list of the 10 best Caribbean diving spots.

The Bahamas

The Bahamas is a top Caribbean diving spot for all types of scuba divers, offering more than 700 islands. Located close to the U.S. and between the Caribbean and the western Atlantic Ocean, The Bahamas has a variety of diving options.

If you’re an animal lover, you can see swimming pigs and flamingoes as well as a variety of sharks across the area. You’ll find tiger sharks swimming around the aptly named Tiger Beach and hammerheads over at Bimini, located on the same strip.

Are tiger sharks and hammerheads a little too much? Those looking for a dive site with a little less marine life in the area can see Jeep wrecks down in Jeep Reef, or head off on a drift dive near Harbour Island.

Cozumel, Mexico

Situated on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Cozumel is an excellent diving destination all year round. Easily accessible and offering a range of diving resorts plus 45 different dive sites, it’s a good spot for all budgets and skill levels.

The southern area of Cozumel is a protected marine park that contains a plethora of colorful marine life including a variety of fish species. Whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced diver, you’re sure to have a great time in the waters here.

If you’re looking for marine life that is more than just pretty fish and coral, Cozumel will not disappoint. Divers frequently encounter an array of sea life, including the rare splendid toadfish, as well as more common species such as turtles, nurse sharks, eagle rays, and green moray eels.

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

The largest of the US Virgin Islands , St. Croix offers opportunities from beginner-friendly shallow reefs to thrilling wall dives and gorgeous swim-throughs. This is one of the best Caribbean diving spots for American citizens, as you can travel here without a passport.

If you’re looking for a truly exhilarating experience, head to Cane Bay Wall, which drops from 40 feet to over 3,000 feet and has plenty to see within the recreational limits, including 300-year-old anchors and marine life such as stingrays and seahorses.

Divers who love exploring wreckages should definitely try St. Croix . With shipwrecks at Butler Bay, tugboats, and giant oil barges accessible to even newer divers, there truly is something for everyone.

St. Croix is a popular spot for night divers too. Head over to Frederiksted Pier, where you may be able to encounter frogfish, crustaceans, squid, octopi, and other nocturnal marine life.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Re public is home to five highly notable diving locations: Santo Domingo, Juan Dolio, Airport Wall, Bayahibe, and Paradise Reef.

Bayahibe is arguably the most popular dive location, as it offers interesting wrecks and caves and is a good spot for deep dives. Beginners are able to access the Atlantic Princess Wreck at 43 feet, but if you’re a more experienced diver, you can explore Saint George at 120 feet down.

For a fun diving day trip, head to Silver Bank. Located just north of the Dominican Republic, this sunken bank is one of the very few locations in the world where you can experience swimming with humpback whales. Try to visit between January and April, as it is a dedicated breeding and calving zone so you may be able to swim alongside some humpback babies!

The Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands also offer a variety of scuba diving spots. At Grand Cayman , the largest and most popular of these islands, you will be able to see one of the best wrecks in the Caribbean: the USS Kittiwake at around 65 feet deep. Even if you’re a beginner, you can access this breathtaking site.

One of the biggest draws to Grand Cayman for divers is Stingray City . This is a collection of sandy banks that are home to giant stingrays, where both divers and snorkelers can swim alongside these majestic animals.

If you get a chance for a day trip to Little Cayman, you will have the opportunity to visit the world-famous Bloody Bay Wall, a dream destination for many divers.

Turks and Caicos

Located just southeast of The Bahamas is Turks and Caicos . This secluded archipelago houses 40 islands split by the Turks Island Passage, a 7,200-foot underwater trench, well worth exploring if you get the chance.

Many tourists choose to visit Providenciales, which is also a popular spot for divers looking to explore reef walls and gatherings of nurse sharks between the months of July and September.

Arguably one of the best Caribbean islands for scuba diving, Turks and Caicos is well worth a visit between January and March. During this time, the trench separating the islands serves as an underwater passageway for migrating marine life. You can encounter some truly magnificent species here, including turtles, humpback whales, and even dolphins.

There is also a great range of unbeatable wall dives with submerged cliffs. With a variety of drop-offs and caverns, where you can see colorful and exciting marine life such as nudibranchs.

If you are looking for a beautiful destination where you can see some truly amazing shipwrecks, then Grenada is the spot for you. Located just north of Venezuela, this relaxed and laid-back island has a huge range of wreck dives on offer for all levels. Be sure to visit the Bianca C, which sits between 100 and 165 feet deep. This world-class cruise liner is a truly magical sight to behold deep beneath the waters.

Hoping to encounter some marine life? Grenada doesn’t hold back in this respect either. At Fisherman’s Paradise, where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic, you can find an array of animals such as octopi, nurse sharks, eagle rays, and moray eels.

Be sure to take a trip to the world-famous Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park ; you don’t even need to be in the water to experience this one. It is also a popular spot for snorkelers and guests traveling on glass-bottom boat trips.

Situated just between Mexico and Guatemala, Belize is home to the world’s second-largest reef system. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the best Caribbean diving spots you can find.

Scuba divers in Belize can enjoy gentle conditions for shore diving, which are great for those just starting out, as well as amazing whale shark encounters if they visit between the months of April and June.

If you get a chance, head to Half Moon Caye. One of the most popular dive sites in Belize, here you can see a range of corals and underwater plants. It is also frequented by animals such as reef sharks and sea turtles.

A large island in the Dutch Caribbean , Curacao is known for being home to a great variety of marine life and colorful coral reefs. It also offers gentle conditions, making it one of the best Caribbean diving spots for beginners.

There is also a selection of wrecks to be explored here, including the Superior Producer, where you can enter the ship’s cargo holds and wheelhouse and can find marine life such as groupers and barracudas making themselves at home.

One of the most famous dive locations in the Caribbean is located just a 10-minute boat ride from the shores of Aruba : the Antilla wreck. This sunken wreckage is split into two and rests at 60 feet deep, but some parts still stick out above the water. If you choose to visit this area, you may encounter marine life including lobsters, turtles, and moray eels.

The fun doesn’t stop there, however, as Aruba is actually home to 14 reef dive sites, seven wrecks, and seven dedicated drift sites. Plus, it’s a comfortable location to visit all year round, as it sits outside of the hurricane belt. This makes it one of the best Caribbean dive spots for summer trips.

After reading our list of 10 best Caribbean dive spots, which is your favorite? Let us know in the comments. And if you would like help planning a scuba diving trip, reach out to one of our experienced travel advisors via our Contact Us page.

15 Best Liveaboards in the Caribbean: EPIC Scuba Diving Trips

Planning a trip to the Caribbean? Why not try a Liveaboard? These are the 15 best Liveaboards in the Caribbean…

Have you ever dreamed of sailing around the Caribbean on a yacht or ship, never having to leave? Spending your days diving and snorkeling and taking in the sunset onboard with a cocktail in hand? If so, Liveaboards are the perfect getaway for you!

More and more Liveaboard experiences are popping up across the Caribbean all the time, and currently, you can spend time on Liveaboards everywhere from The Bahamas to Mexico and Costa Rica to the Cayman Islands. I’ve done the legwork for you and shortlisted the 15 Best Caribbean Liveaboard Diving trips for your bucket list!

Let’s dive in!

Also, I’ve included tons of fun videos for some of these scuba liveaboard Caribbean trips, so be sure to watch them for inspiration!

1) Belize Aggressor III

Location: Belize

Price: From $350 USD per day

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/belize/belize-aggressor-iii

The Belize Aggressor III is simply one of the best luxury liveaboard diving Caribbean trips! It’s on a 36m yacht that offers impeccable service at some of the best diving spots in the Caribbean. The onboard rooms are sparkling clean, the food delicious and the dives numbering up to five a day!

Meet and greet with some of the most fascinating marine life on this yacht that travels around some of Belize’s most spectacular dive and snorkel spots. The itinerary includes iconic dive sites Painted Wall, Half Moon Caye Wall, and Quebrada — as well as an opportunity to dive the famous Blue Hole , which is a jaw-dropping collapsed freshwater cave system that you need to explore for yourself!

There are multiple decks on board, comfortable staterooms with luxury bedding, delicious cuisine, unlimited food and drink (food and wine included), personal gear bins, air/nitrox fills, and so much more! Belize offers some of the coolest and best Caribbean liveaboard diving experiences, and if you book a spot on board the Aggressor III you are guaranteed satisfaction!

View Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability

2) Caribbean Explorer II

St Maarten - best caribbean liveaboard diving

Location: St Martin

Price: From $150 USD per day

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/st-maarten/caribbean-explorer-ii

With multiple trips available per month, life on the Caribbean Explorer II is simply divine. The 35m luxury yacht sleeps up to 18 in its spacious staterooms, which are air-conditioned and feature private ensuites.

On top of enjoying multiple dives per day, including mind-blowing night dives and followed by warm towels & hot chocolate — you can also expect plenty of time to laze in the sun or to head onto the islands of Saint Maarten and St Kitts to explore. With a continental breakfast to fuel you up each day, you’ll have a blast on this Caribbean Liveaboard.

Itineraries for the Caribbean Explorer II visit pretty much all of the most magical dive sites near St. Martin & St. Kitts, and are famous for offshore pinnacles, deep underwater seamounts, finger reefs, shipwrecks, coral labyrinths, and of course tons of wildlife sightings including reef sharks, turtles, rays, and tons more! You’ll also have the opportunity to go diving in Saba Marine Park , which was founded in 1987 to ensure the park’s thriving aquatic life remains healthy near St. Martin.

I’ve actually just returned from a trip St. Martin, and I absolutely loved it! I can’t wait to get back and experience a liveaboard out here, ideally on the Caribbean Explorer II!

3) Avalon II Liveaboard

Location: Cuba

Price: From $450 USD per day

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/cuba/avalon-ii

One of the most highly rated Liveaboards in Cuba, the Avalon II spans four decks, with room for up to 40 guests on each trip. In addition, there’s ample living and dining space, a bar, and a kitchen serving up traditional (and delicious) Cuban cuisine.

There’s even a hot tub on the sun deck! Swim with sharks and barracuda in Cuba’s turquoise waters, explore hidden caves, or tick diving at the incredible Jardines de la Reina (Gardens of the Queen) off your bucket list. Dance to salsa with locals, head to the beach for a grill, and immerse yourself in all that makes Cuba so unique.

While there are a ton of amazing reasons to visit Cuba, I’d argue that this luxury liveaboard is among the best for fellow scuba-diving addicts!

View Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability

4) Cayman Aggressor V

Location: Cayman Islands

Price: $350+ USD per night

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/cayman-islands/cayman-aggressor-v

The picture-perfect Cayman Islands make the ultimate backdrop for a week-long diving adventure on a Liveaboard. Offering trips departing year-round from this island chain, the Cayman Aggressor V offers the opportunity to dive at all three of the Cayman Islands: Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac!

There are rooms to suit all budgets and sizes, in addition to a spacious dining area, cocktail lounge, main deck with music, entertainment room, sundeck with deck chairs, a hot tub, and bar service (beer and wine included).

The crystal clear waters of the Caymans are full of native turtles and friendly sharks & stingrays, and you’ll get to experience world-famous dive sites such as Trinity Caves, Stingray City and Bloody Bay Wall – Plus you’ll get to experience viewing the Kittiwake Wreck , an ex-submarine rescue vessel (which deserves a place on every scuba diving bucket list!

During the seven nights on board Cayman Aggressor V, you’ll be treated to up to 27 dives! What are you waiting for?

5) Nautilus Belle Amie

Location: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Price: From $250 USD per night

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/mexico/nautilus-belle-amie

Setting sail from the sunny Mexican shore in Cabo San Lucas, the Nautilus Belle Amie promises a five-star diving experience you’ll never forget. While it’s not technically in Caribbean — I wanted to mention it since it’s fun, affordable, and will be a fun excuse to hop down to Cabo!

Offering a large and spacious ship with space to sleep up to 32 lucky guests traveling on a range of budgets, the Nautilus features roomy ding areas, magnificent food, two bars, and a sun deck with a hot tub. The trip will take you over to the Socorro Islands and to Guadalupe, where diving is world-class. Brush shoulders with dolphins, mantas, and humpback whales in the Mexican sunshine!

The Nautilus Belle Amie ship is also the largest of the entire Nautilus Liveaboard’s fleet, and the views you’ll get from the rails while you cruise around these underrated Mexican destinations will be truly spectacular and worth every penny!

6) Cuan Law

Location: British Virgin Islands

Price: From $500 USD per day

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/virgin-islands/cuan-law

The Cuan Law is a relaxed Liveaboard experience that will show you the best of the British Virgin Islands as you want to see it. Without a set itinerary, this six-night dive tailors each day to the interests of the guests onboard, and offers three-dives per day.

There are over 100 dive sites spread about this Caribbean paradise, or you can snorkel or kayak. The Cuan Law features great rooms (all with outside views), a main salon with chill-out areas and a bar, an activities/ dining deck, and of course a sun deck to work on your tan. The buffet breakfast/ lunch, and full-service dinner are all exceptional – as guests truly do rave about the food on board the Cuan Law!

While most of the Caribbean liveaboard diving trips listed here are on yachts, Cuan Law is actually a trimaran and one of the largest in the entire world! The clear blue waters and unique island views of the BVI’s are simply breathtaking, and it’s a world-class destination for scuba divers that’ll keep you coming back every year!

7) Turks and Caicos Aggressor II

Location: Turks & Caicos

Price: From $300 USD per day

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/dominican-republic/turks-and-caicos-aggressor-ii

Head down to the magical tourist hotspot of Turks and Caicos and board the five-star Aggressor II for the trip of a lifetime. Each day on board you can expect to be treated to up to five dives or snorkels, checking out the humpback whales, lobsters, and other marine life that call this area home.

Offering 6,7, and 10-day night trips with space for 18 divers in 9 en-suite cabins, booking a trip on board the Aggressor II is guaranteed to be a highlight of your scuba-diving life!

And time out of the water is so enjoyable too. The ship boasts deluxe staterooms, a salon and dining room, and a top deck with sun loungers, a hot tub and a bar and grill. Over seven nights you will explore Providenciales, West Caicos and French Cay and there’s a sunset cocktail party on the final night.

8) Blackbeards Sea Explorer

Location: Bahamas

Price: $150+ USD per day

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/bahamas/blackbeards-sea-explorer

A budget-friendly Caribbean Liveaboard, Blackbeards Sea Explorer hosts a young, fun crowd on the 65ft sloop. Cruise around the perfect waters of the Bahamas on this relaxed trip that has no set itinerary, as each day is tailored perfectly to the weather.

This area boasts over 250 dive sites to explore. Onboard, Blackbeards sleeping quarters are dormitory style, with air-conditioning and privacy curtains. All meals are included, and just like their tagline says, this Liveaboard experience promises to show you “the best of The Bahamas”.

It’s one of the coolest and most affordable Bahamas Liveaboards available and would make for a perfect experience for younger divers looking to meet other travelers in this world-class destination. There are also plenty of other activities offered on board, so if you’re traveling with a friend who doesn’t scuba dive, they could still join for an epic sailing trip!

9) Okeanos Aggressor II

Location: Costa Rica

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/costa-rica/okeanos-aggressor-ii

If you find yourself down in the paradise of Costa Rica, treat yourself to a trip on the Okeanos Aggressor II.

The Aggressor team has pulled out of the stops to ensure that your experience on the 36.5m modern yacht is second to none. You’ll dive up to four times per day. share the water with sharks and rays and discover the sheer beauty of Cocos Island . The staterooms onboard are fully equipped with an ensure bathroom, and you’ll enjoy the sunset from the deck with a drink from the bar in hand!

This is a pretty niche and hidden gem among the best liveaboard dive trips! If you’re planning a trip to Central America, then I’d highly recommend adding this to your travel itinerary!

10) Roatan Aggressor

Location: Honduras

Price: $300+ USD per day

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/honduras/roatan-aggressor

With some seriously stellar reviews from many happy Liveaboarders, the Roatan Aggressor sets sail from Honduras and explores the Bay Islands of the region. This seven-night trip promises up to five dives per day in the turquoise waters of the islands, where there’s not only local marine life buzzing about, but also many wrecks to explore.

After each dive, the Aggressor team has even added the personal touch of warm towels to dry off. Onboard, there are nine ensuite cabins, featuring TV’s with movies and a nightly turndown service, and all beverages and meals are included in the price.

11) Socorro Aggressor

Location: Mexico

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/mexico/socorro-aggressor

Another exceptional Mexico Liveaboard that sets sail to the Socorro Islands and Guadalupe, the Socorro Aggressor promises something for everyone. Dive in the Pacific with dolphins, whales, sharks and rays, or seasonally cage dive with great white sharks.

Onboard, you can expect all of the epic inclusions of any Aggressor Liveaboard. There’s a salon and dining room on the main deck where you’ll enjoy your delicious local cuisine, an outdoor terrace and bar and a top sundeck with loungers. In addition, there’s a range of staterooms to suit any budget.

12) Argo

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/costa-rica/argo

With a trip each fortnight, the Argos will take you out to the pristine Cocos Islands, which are considered one of the best places to scuba dive in the world.

With a highly trained, skilled crew and five-star staterooms, meals and amenities, your days on the Argo consist of diving or snorkelling with native marine life, sunning yourself on the deck loungers or simply relaxing far away from civilization.

13) Valentina

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/mexico/valentina

Another Mexico Liveaboard option, the Valentina’s itineraries sails out to the Baja California Peninsula, the Sea of Cortex or to the Socorro Islands, where fascinating sea creatures and dive sites are aplenty. The 38m Valentina is fresh from a refit, and features air-conditioned cabins, a dining room that serves up epic Mexican and European meals, a sun deck to relax on and an open bar – the place to order a beer or cocktail. With five or nine night sails available with varying itineraries, the Valentina comes highly rated and recommended.

14) Bahamas Master

Location: Bahamas

Price: From $400 USD per day

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/bahamas/bahamas-master

Brand new and super impressive, the Bahamas Master spans 35m and offers varying itineraries to suit your own interests, time and budget. The ship itself sleeps 16 guests, with three cabin types on offer.

Unwind between dives in the indoor lounge with entertainment on the main deck, order a drink in the upper deck outdoor bar, laze on the sun deck or have a meal in the dining room. Itineraries on offer include trips to meet tiger sharks, to dive down to wrecks or massive ultimate trips to a range of islands. Regardless of where you end up, The Bahamas has beauty at every turn.

15) Galapagos Aggressor III

Location: Galapagos Islands

Price: From $600 USD per day

https://www.liveaboard.com/diving/galapagos/galapagos-aggressor-iii

The Galapagos Islands are a staple on almost everyone’s travel bucket list, and there’s no better way to do it than on a seven night Liveaboard diving trip. The Galapagos Aggressor is outfitted with modern, spacious rooms, socials areas and decks, and the meals range from buffet breakfast and lunch to chef-prepared dinners serving up local cuisine. At the end of the day, the top deck is the place to be. Here, there’s a sun deck, hot tub, lounges, a bar and a grill. Here, you can share dive stories with your fellow Liveaboarders. After all, sailing around the Galapagos Islands and swimming with sea lions, sharks and turtles will give you a lot to talk about!

Did I miss any of the best Caribbean Liveaboard experiences?

More and more Liveaboard trips are popping up across the Caribbean, so in time, you can expect to see more destinations on offer. Have you been on a Caribbean Liveaboard that didn’t make the cut? Send through the details and I’ll check it out to see if it has the goods to be added to the list!

Some related travel reading…

Looking for some more Caribbean travel inspiration? Check out some more of my travel content…

50+ Mexico Quotes For Tequila, Tacos & Culture
The 19 Best Airbnbs In Mexico
The Top 16 Music Festivals In Mexico
Fun & Inspirational Beach Quotes
The Top 16 Things To Do In Cozumel
Top 21 Amazing Things To Do In Tulum
14 Amazing Airbnbs In The Bahamas
Where Is Hot In February? 20 Incredible Warm Destinations To Visit In February
66 Fascinating & Fun Facts About Costa Rica
Airbnb Turks and Caicos

Final thoughts on Caribbean Liveaboard life…

I can’t wait to spend some time on a Liveaboard in the Caribbean! The Liveaboard companies featured on my list are the best of the best, with highly skilled crew, fun and varied itineraries and some of the most impressive onboard amenities. I guess the only question is – which one will it be?

Thanks for reading about the best Liveaboards in the Caribbean,

Share this list with your scuba-loving travel crew.

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The Best Diving Destinations In The Caribbean For Families

Best SCUBA Diving Destinations In The Caribbean For Families

Are you searching for the best diving destinations in the Caribbean for a family SCUBA diving vacation? Discover Bonaire, Cayman Islands, Belize, and more!

Diving is something that Christina and I LOVE to do. And while we’ve traveled to destinations around the world for SCUBA diving, our kids normally watch from the boat or spend some time in a kids club. We dove with Manta Rays on the Big Island of Hawaii , swam with sea lions in Argentina , and even dove between continental plates in Silfra Iceland . But C is approaching 8-years-old, the entry age for him to start learning to SCUBA dive with bubble makers. And D won’t be far behind him. So I’ve started on a mission to find the best diving destinations in the Caribbean for families who want to SCUBA dive together.

What Makes For The Best Diving Destinations For Families?

Table of Contents

Family scuba diving vacations are all about having fun, being out in the sun, and having amazing things to see under the waves. This goes double if this will be among the first kids’ diving experiences. Just like any of the best family holidays , you want them to have the best time of their life and fall in love with SCUBA diving trips as much as you.

The Caribbean is among the best family dive destinations in the world, so finding the best places to SCUBA dive in the Caribbean should be easy. But, if it was only that simple. Diving destinations in the Caribbean vary greatly across the region. And if you are looking for cheap diving destinations or the top Caribbean dive resorts, what might be perfect for one family, might not be for another.

My family tends to forego the all-inclusive resorts and focus on diving into the culture, experiences, and adventures that make a family travel destination so special for us. But, if I’m looking at focusing solely on family SCUBA vacations, I’m not going to rule them out, because let’s face it, the best Caribbean dive resorts are built with that in mind.

The best diving destinations in the Caribbean for families have to have these key ingredients to make the list:

Calm and clear water
Amazing family-friendly activities for when you’re out of the water
Abundant underwater life
Excellent food

SCUBA Diving for famiiles Iceland Silfra Dive

What Destinations Offer The Best Diving In The Caribbean For Families?

The Caribbean is ripe with amazing family SCUBA diving destinations. And if you’re looking for kids diving destinations, it’s among the best in the world. But, there are a few destinations that stand above the rest, and, if you’ve traveled through the Caribbean, you might not be surprised at which Caribbean dive destinations for families made the list. So pack up the reef-safe sunscreen and climb aboard for the best diving in the Caribbean for families.

The island of Bonaire, one of the island nations off the coast of Venezuela near Curacao and Aruba is one of the top family diving destinations in the world. SCUBA diving in Bonaire is famous for its accessibility. There are countless areas for shore dives and the waters have a huge variety of undersea life. Bonaire is one of the world’s premier diving destinations.

Family dive vacations sea turtle in Bonaire

What Makes Bonaire One Of the Best Diving Destinations In The Caribbean For Families?

SCUBA diving is a way of life in Bonaire, and they allow children to start exploring undersea life as early as possible. Bonaire offers supplied air snorkeling for children as young as 5-years-old. Their Bubblemaker programs start at 8-years-old and the Junior Open Water program begins at 10-years-old.

Every reef in Bonaire has been declared a protected marine park since 1978. So, they are among the most pristine coral reefs in the Caribbean. And much of the best SCUBA diving in Bonaire is available as a shore dive, so you can forego the cost of boats. This level of accessibility means that family SCUBA diving vacations in Bonaire can be run at a relaxed pace.

Other Things To Do In Bonaire

The family fun in Bonaire doesn’t stop below the surface. Bonaire is lined with amazing beaches. Or head to Klein Island to mix beach fun with amazing shore dives. In town, stop into Cafe Cuba Compagnie and watch the Salsa dancers put on a show. For nature lovers, check out Washington-Slagbaai National Park which covers an astonishing 20% of the landscape of Bonaire.

Best Family Dive Resorts In Bonaire

If your family is just getting into diving, or if your children are looking to learn to dive in one of the junior programs than Buddy Dive Resort is a great option. Buddy Dive Resort sits right on Buddy Reef and is focused on family diving vacations. The Kids Sea Camp at Buddy Dive Resort is totally focused on fun, safe, and active dive education for children and adults alike. And if you are looking to explore more diving locations in Bonaire, you can use the drive-through oxygen and nitrox stations and make the short trip to the countless other diving spots on Bonaire.

Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos, which is north of Dominican Republic and west of Cuba is one of the best diving destinations in the Caribbean for families. Not only is Turks and Caicos very easy to get to from either the U.S.A. or Canada, but it’s a super popular destination for family travel to the Caribbean as well.

What Makes Turks And Caicos One Of the Best Diving Destinations In The Caribbean For Families?

Much like Bonaire, diving in Turks and Caicos is a big part of the island’s life. There are many reefs that are accessible as shore dives, and most dive resorts in Turks and Caicos offer unlimited shore dives. Diving in Turks and Caicos boasts an average of 150 ft of visibility and the variety of marine life in Turks is astounding. The waters off of Grand Turks are home to humpback whales, king crab, turtles, stingrays, trumpetfish and much, much more.

Other Things To Do In Turks And Caicos

SCUBA diving isn’t all that Turks and Caicos have in store for families. Exploring Grand Turks and the surrounding islands offer a treasure trove of great family-friendly adventures. We are big fans of exploring caves , so the Conch Bar Caves and Indian Caves are a big hit. The small islets and formations of Chalk Sound are great for an afternoon of exploring. You can also head over to Smith’s Reef for some of the best snorkeling in the country.

Best Family Dive Resorts In Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos have some great options for family diving holidays. Beaches Resort is one of the hot spots for families in the country. They offer SNUBA options and PADI Certification courses for those who are just learning to dive. All dives at Beaches resorts are guided, so it’s perfect for families who want to experience some of the best diving destinations in Turks.

Bohio Dive Resort is a favorite among SCUBA families in Turks and Caicos. The great restaurants, pools, and amenities make it a relaxing place where you can focus on SCUBA diving and still have lots to do when you’re out of the water.

Belize holds a special place in our hearts for SCUBA diving. Not only is Belize home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, but it is also where Christina and I got our open water certifications. Belize is an amazing country for family travel as well with loads of great activities both on the mainland and on the islands.

Best Diving Destinations In The Caribbean Belize Blue Hole

What Makes Belize One Of the Best Diving Destinations In The Caribbean For Families?

There is a lot to offer SCUBA divers in Belize. The barrier reef is just where the incredible diving begins in Belize. Whether you are staying on the mainland or Belize islands like Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, or one of the countless private islands dotting the Caribbean waters of Belize, you’ll be blown away by the waters. Belize is home to the famed Great Blue Hole, a sunken underwater cavern nearly 400 m deep. The quiet waters and abundant sea life also make Belize a popular destination for those new to SCUBA diving.

Other Things To Do In Belize

For those who can’t handle sitting still, there is a huge number of things to do in Belize for families . To start there are the massive Mayan ruin complexes like Lamanai. Belize is also a popular destination for cave tubing, and if you like caves as much as we do, you’ll love the tongue-twisting Actun Tunichil Muknal cave experience.

Best Family Dive Resorts In Belize

If you are looking for a chilled-out place to relax in Belize, then basing yourself in Caye Caulker is one of the best options for families in Belize. Don’t expect much other than a peaceful dive vacations, a nice day hike, great restaurants and LOTS of water if you visit Caye Caulker. But this small island is a wonderful place to experience life at a slower pace. The local Frenchie’s Dive Shop does PADI lessons as well as great dive tours to the most popular diving destinations in Belize.

But if you are looking for more action, head to Ambergris Caye in Belize. Ambergris is the largest of the Cayes in Belize and is located very close to the barrier reef, making it an ideal for families looking to do lots of dives. Ramon’s Village Resort in San Pedro is a popular spot for those who love amazing views but don’t want to be cut off from the nightlife.

The island of Grenada is a perfect family diving destination for those who love to explore more off-the-beaten-path destinations. Grenada is easy to travel within and offers an amazing amount of experiences for the whole family. Dubbed “ the Spice Island “, Grenada has a lot going for it both above and below the water.

Family dive vacations in Caribbean Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park

What Makes Grenada One Of the Best Diving Destinations In The Caribbean For Families?

The waters of Grenada are teeming with mysterious shipwrecks, colorful reefs, and exciting drift dives. Advanced wreck divers will be amazed by the site of the Bianca C, a 600-foot luxury liner that sank off the south coast in 1961. For young and beginner divers, a trip to the Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park is sure to capture your imagination. The site has 50 sculptures that are now becoming an artificial reef.

Other Things To Do In Grenada

Grenada is a mountainous island that is a treat to explore. The spice tours are very popular and offer great insight into the country’s history as a key trade island in the West Indies. Parents will appreciate a visit to the River Antoine rum distillery , the oldest rum factory in the Caribbean. Children will love all the waterfalls, and a visit to Grand Etang National Park where, if you come at the right time of day, the local Mona Monkeys swing by for a visit.

Best Family Dive Resorts In Grenada

True Blue Bay Boutique Resort is the resort of choice for most family vacationers to Grenada. They have learn to dive packages as well as multi-night dive specials that make it a great deal for SCUBA families.

Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands, which lie right in the middle of the Caribbean Sea is a jewel of thrilling diving locations in the Caribbean. The waters surrounding the Cayman Islands offer exciting coral walls, amazing wrecks, and unforgettable marine life. Grand Cayman Island, specifically, is where most dive families choose to base themselves in the Cayman Islands. Some of the walls here drop off an astonishing 1,800 meters (6,000 ft).

What Makes the Cayman Islands One Of the Best Diving Destinations In The Caribbean For Families?

The Cayman Islands have become popular for beginner divers due to the lack of current, making the shore dives off of Grand Cayman some of the easiest for new divers. There isn’t a lack of dive sites between the three main islands that make up the Cayman Islands. Little Cayman is popular for its vibrant corals, deep walls, and swim-throughs. Cayman Brac is the island with the most diving diversity. There are wrecks, corals, and walls to explore for all skill levels. A dive in Stingray City is sure to thrill young divers. The stingrays here have been called nearly tame for their love of interaction with divers.

Other Things To Do In Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are a full-fledged tourism destination in the Caribbean. Families will have a hard time being bored among all of the attractions in the Cayman Islands. Some favorites activities here are searching for the Cayman Brac parrot on Cayman Brac and the Red Footed Booby bird on Little Cayman. Skull Cave on Cayman Brac or the stunning Crystal Cave on Grand Cayman. A great place in the Cayman Islands to pick up some meaningful souvenirs is the home studio of Annalee Ebanks, one of the few remaining practitioners of palm frond weaving.

Best Family Dive Resorts In Cayman Islands

Compass Point Dive Resort on Grand Cayman is considered one of the top dive resorts for families in the Caribbean. Whether you are looking to try SCUBA diving for the first time or are an experienced diver looking for some great dive tours, they have you covered. Compass Point has both kids and youth diving programs.

Roatan Honduras

Honduras nearly didn’t make our list due to the crime issues on the mainland, but the island of Roatan is a far different place than mainland Honduras and deserves to be on this list. This picturesque island, that sits 30 km off of the mainland is a mecca for SCUBA diving in the Caribbean.

What Makes the Roatan Honduras One Of the Best Diving Destinations In The Carribean For Families?

Roatan has been made famous as one of the best dive locations in the Caribbean by its abundant sea life, dazzling corals, and plummeting sea walls. Roatan is also one of the most popular places in the Caribbean for swimming with Whale Sharks. The sandy bottoms, vibrant reefs, and shallow wrecks make Roatan a popular spot for both new SCUBA divers and veterans.

You can expect to see a range of undersea life in Roatan. From Giant Groupers and Eagle Rays to arrowhead crabs and fireworms, the life here is amazing and is sure to thrill divers of all skill levels.

Other Things To Do In Roatan Honduras

Roatan has a sleepy island vibe to it, but towns like West End are fun and full of life. West End has some great restaurants and art shops that are fun to explore for the whole family. There are also fun zip-line courses and mangrove forests to explore.

Best Family Dive Resorts In Roatan Honduras

Roatan offers some of the best diving in the Caribbean, so there is no lack of amazing dive resorts on the island. SCUBA kids will love Mayan Princess Beach and Dive Resort and Turquoise Bay Dive and Beach Resort for their Kids SCUBA diving camps. Both resorts can also offer dive-masters who can fun family-focused dive excursions into the waters surrounding Roatan.

What Is The Best Season For SCUBA Diving In The Caribbean?

The Caribbean covers a vast area, so it can be tough to nail down the best months for SCUBA diving in the Caribbean. If you want the best diving in the Caribbean, you also need great weather. If you are traveling to the southern areas of the Caribbean such as Bonaire and Aruba, there is almost no low-season and diving is great year-round. The further north you travel, the more the weather varies. Here is a breakdown of the weather in the Caribbean:

August to October is hurricane season, however, November and December tend to offer the least risk with the best price opportunities.
January to February generally offers cooler temperatures and higher waves, especially in the northern Islands and the Florida Keys.
April to July offers the best weather in the northern Caribbean with warm waters and calm seas.

Do you have a favorite family SCUBA diving destination in the Caribbean? Tell us about it in the comments or swing over to our Facebook Page and share a photo. We would love to hear about your travels.

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Discover Underwater Wonders – Top 10 Scuba Diving Paradises Globally

Posted: February 22, 2024 | Last updated: February 22, 2024

<p><strong>Scuba diving opens up a world of underwater wonders, from vibrant coral reefs to mysterious shipwrecks. Each dive site offers a unique window into the ocean’s depths, showcasing a variety of marine life and underwater landscapes. This guide takes you on a journey through 10 of the best scuba diving destinations in the world, each promising an unforgettable underwater adventure.</strong></p>

Scuba diving opens up a world of underwater wonders, from vibrant coral reefs to mysterious shipwrecks. Each dive site offers a unique window into the ocean’s depths, showcasing a variety of marine life and underwater landscapes. This guide takes you on a journey through 10 of the best scuba diving destinations in the world, each promising an unforgettable underwater adventure.

<p><span>You’ll encounter an underwater world teeming with life while diving in the Great Barrier Reef. This vast reef system hosts an array of marine creatures, including colorful parrotfish, imposing barracudas, and gentle sea turtles. Iconic dive sites like the Cod Hole offer encounters with massive potato cod, while Ribbon Reefs boasts vibrant coral gardens. At the SS Yongala wreck, a historic shipwreck, you can observe a rich ecosystem that has developed around the sunken vessel, home to sea snakes, octopuses, and groupers. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Visit the less frequented outer reefs for a more serene diving experience. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>June to October for the best visibility and weather. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Fly to Cairns, which serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.</span></p>

1. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

You’ll encounter an underwater world teeming with life while diving in the Great Barrier Reef. This vast reef system hosts an array of marine creatures, including colorful parrotfish, imposing barracudas, and gentle sea turtles. Iconic dive sites like the Cod Hole offer encounters with massive potato cod, while Ribbon Reefs boasts vibrant coral gardens. At the SS Yongala wreck, a historic shipwreck, you can observe a rich ecosystem that has developed around the sunken vessel, home to sea snakes, octopuses, and groupers.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the less frequented outer reefs for a more serene diving experience.

When To Travel: June to October for the best visibility and weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Cairns, which serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.

<p><span>At the Belize Barrier Reef, you’ll dive into crystal-clear waters to explore the famous Great Blue Hole, a massive submarine sinkhole. Surrounding this iconic spot, the reef’s diverse habitats support an abundance of marine life, including nurse sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, and schools of colorful fish. In areas like Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, you can swim with stingrays and nurse sharks, making for an unforgettable underwater experience. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Dive the Great Blue Hole in the morning for better light and visibility. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>April to June for optimal diving conditions. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Fly into Belize City and take a boat or small plane to the coastal towns or islands.</span></p>

2. Belize Barrier Reef, Belize

At the Belize Barrier Reef, you’ll dive into crystal-clear waters to explore the famous Great Blue Hole, a massive submarine sinkhole. Surrounding this iconic spot, the reef’s diverse habitats support an abundance of marine life, including nurse sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, and schools of colorful fish. In areas like Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, you can swim with stingrays and nurse sharks, making for an unforgettable underwater experience.

Insider’s Tip: Dive the Great Blue Hole in the morning for better light and visibility.

When To Travel: April to June for optimal diving conditions.

How To Get There: Fly into Belize City and take a boat or small plane to the coastal towns or islands.

<p><span>Raja Ampat, a remote and pristine archipelago, is a biodiversity hotspot. As you dive here, you’ll be mesmerized by the variety of marine life, from tiny pygmy seahorses to majestic manta rays. The Coral Triangle region, of which Raja Ampat is a part, is known for its unparalleled coral diversity, home to more than 75% of the world’s coral species. Sites like Cape Kri and Manta Sandy offer vibrant underwater landscapes teeming with life, including schooling barracudas, reef sharks, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Stay on a liveaboard to access the more remote dive sites. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>October to April for calmer seas and better visibility. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Fly to Sorong via Jakarta or Bali, and then take a boat to the islands.</span></p>

3. Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Raja Ampat, a remote and pristine archipelago, is a biodiversity hotspot. As you dive here, you’ll be mesmerized by the variety of marine life, from tiny pygmy seahorses to majestic manta rays. The Coral Triangle region, of which Raja Ampat is a part, is known for its unparalleled coral diversity, home to more than 75% of the world’s coral species. Sites like Cape Kri and Manta Sandy offer vibrant underwater landscapes teeming with life, including schooling barracudas, reef sharks, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.

Insider’s Tip: Stay on a liveaboard to access the more remote dive sites.

When To Travel: October to April for calmer seas and better visibility.

How To Get There: Fly to Sorong via Jakarta or Bali, and then take a boat to the islands.

<p><span>Palau’s unique underwater topography and rich marine ecosystems offer a thrilling diving experience. At the famed Blue Corner, strong currents attract sharks, rays, and large schools of fish, creating a dynamic diving environment. Jellyfish Lake, a marine lake, provides a rare opportunity to swim amongst millions of harmless jellyfish, a surreal and unforgettable experience. The diverse marine life here includes everything from mandarin fish in the shallow reefs to pelagic species in the deeper waters. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Get your advanced certification to fully enjoy the drift dives. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>November to April for the best conditions. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Fly to Koror, Palau’s largest city, via Guam or Manila.</span></p>

4. Palau, Micronesia

Palau’s unique underwater topography and rich marine ecosystems offer a thrilling diving experience. At the famed Blue Corner, strong currents attract sharks, rays, and large schools of fish, creating a dynamic diving environment. Jellyfish Lake, a marine lake, provides a rare opportunity to swim amongst millions of harmless jellyfish, a surreal and unforgettable experience. The diverse marine life here includes everything from mandarin fish in the shallow reefs to pelagic species in the deeper waters.

Insider’s Tip: Get your advanced certification to fully enjoy the drift dives.

When To Travel: November to April for the best conditions.

How To Get There: Fly to Koror, Palau’s largest city, via Guam or Manila.

<p><span>The Maldives offers a tranquil yet vibrant underwater world with its clear blue waters and extensive coral reefs. Diving here, you’ll encounter a variety of sharks, including whale and reef sharks, as well as manta rays, especially at Manta Point. The atolls’ channels and pinnacles (thilas) are teeming with life, hosting schools of colorful fish, eagle rays, and turtles. The Maldives’ diverse marine habitats provide a haven for pelagic and reef-dwelling species, offering a well-rounded diving experience. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Visit during the manta ray and whale shark seasons for an unforgettable experience. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>December to April for the best visibility and weather. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Fly to Malé International Airport and then take a boat or seaplane to your resort.</span></p>

5. Maldives

The Maldives offers a tranquil yet vibrant underwater world with its clear blue waters and extensive coral reefs. Diving here, you’ll encounter a variety of sharks, including whale and reef sharks, as well as manta rays, especially at Manta Point. The atolls’ channels and pinnacles (thilas) are teeming with life, hosting schools of colorful fish, eagle rays, and turtles. The Maldives’ diverse marine habitats provide a haven for pelagic and reef-dwelling species, offering a well-rounded diving experience.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the manta ray and whale shark seasons for an unforgettable experience.

When To Travel: December to April for the best visibility and weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Malé International Airport and then take a boat or seaplane to your resort.

<p><span>Cozumel is famed for its drift dives along spectacular coral walls and vibrant reefs. The Palancar Reef and Santa Rosa Wall are renowned for their stunning formations and diverse marine life, including moray eels, lobsters, and a multitude of tropical fish. The island’s currents make for exhilarating drift diving, allowing you to glide effortlessly over the reefs, observing the bustling underwater activity. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Try a night dive to see a different side of the reef’s marine life. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>May to September for calmer waters and better visibility. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Fly to Cozumel directly or to Cancun, followed by a ferry ride to the island.</span></p>

6. Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is famed for its drift dives along spectacular coral walls and vibrant reefs. The Palancar Reef and Santa Rosa Wall are renowned for their stunning formations and diverse marine life, including moray eels, lobsters, and a multitude of tropical fish. The island’s currents make for exhilarating drift diving, allowing you to glide effortlessly over the reefs, observing the bustling underwater activity.

Insider’s Tip: Try a night dive to see a different side of the reef’s marine life.

When To Travel: May to September for calmer waters and better visibility.

How To Get There: Fly to Cozumel directly or to Cancun, followed by a ferry ride to the island.

<p><span>Step into a world that’s both a living laboratory of evolution and a beacon of sustainable tourism. With its unparalleled wildlife and distinct ecosystems, this archipelago is fiercely protected by stringent environmental policies. As you explore these islands, you’ll have the opportunity for close encounters with species found nowhere else on Earth.</span></p> <p><span>Whether observing the unique behaviors of land animals or marveling at the marine life in the rich waters, your experiences are shaped by practices prioritizing sustainability. This responsible approach ensures that your visit contributes to the preservation of these extraordinary islands, allowing you to witness the wonders of the Galapagos while supporting their continued protection.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Choose certified eco-friendly tour operators for your visits to the islands.</span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>The cool and dry season from June to November is great for wildlife spotting.</span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Fly to Quito or Guayaquil, then take a flight to the Galapagos Islands.</span></p>

7. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

With their unique and diverse marine ecosystem, the Galapagos Islands are a haven for adventurous divers. The remote Wolf and Darwin islands offer some of the best chances to see schooling hammerhead sharks, while marine iguanas and sea lions provide unique encounters only possible in the Galapagos. The islands’ nutrient-rich waters attract a wide range of marine life, including dolphins, whale sharks, and a variety of rays, making every dive here an exciting adventure.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a liveaboard dive trip to reach the more distant and pristine dive sites.

When To Travel: June to November for whale shark sightings, though diving is great year-round.

How To Get There: Fly to Quito or Guayaquil, then take a domestic flight to the Galapagos.

<p><span>The Red Sea is renowned for its warm, crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Diving in the Red Sea, you’ll explore world-class dive sites like Ras Mohammed National Park and the Thistlegorm Wreck, an accessible World War II wreck. The region’s reefs are bustling with life, home to over 1,000 fish species and more than 200 species of coral. The Brothers Islands, another highlight, offer the chance to see oceanic whitetip sharks and large pelagics. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Explore the lesser-known southern reefs for a more exclusive diving experience. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>April to October for warmer water temperatures. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Fly to Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada, the main diving hubs in the Red Sea.</span></p>

8. Red Sea, Egypt

The Red Sea is renowned for its warm, crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Diving in the Red Sea, you’ll explore world-class dive sites like Ras Mohammed National Park and the Thistlegorm Wreck, an accessible World War II wreck. The region’s reefs are bustling with life, home to over 1,000 fish species and more than 200 species of coral. The Brothers Islands, another highlight, offer the chance to see oceanic whitetip sharks and large pelagics.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the lesser-known southern reefs for a more exclusive diving experience.

When To Travel: April to October for warmer water temperatures.

How To Get There: Fly to Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada, the main diving hubs in the Red Sea.

<p><span>The Similan Islands in Thailand are known for their stunning underwater visibility and diverse marine life. The islands’ granite boulders create fascinating underwater landscapes teeming with life. Elephant Head Rock and Richelieu Rock are particularly notable for sightings of manta rays and whale sharks. The reefs here are vibrant and healthy, providing a home to a wide array of fish, from tiny clownfish to majestic leopard sharks. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Book a liveaboard trip for access to the more remote northern dive sites. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>November to April for the best diving conditions. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Fly to Phuket or Khao Lak and join a liveaboard or day trip to the islands.</span></p>

9. Similan Islands, Thailand

The Similan Islands in Thailand are known for their stunning underwater visibility and diverse marine life. The islands’ granite boulders create fascinating underwater landscapes teeming with life. Elephant Head Rock and Richelieu Rock are particularly notable for sightings of manta rays and whale sharks. The reefs here are vibrant and healthy, providing a home to a wide array of fish, from tiny clownfish to majestic leopard sharks.

Insider’s Tip: Book a liveaboard trip for access to the more remote northern dive sites.

When To Travel: November to April for the best diving conditions.

How To Get There: Fly to Phuket or Khao Lak and join a liveaboard or day trip to the islands.

<p><span>Fiji, the “Soft Coral Capital of the World,” is a diver’s dream with its underwater kaleidoscope of colors. The Rainbow Reef and the Great Astrolabe Reef are highlights, offering expansive coral formations and the chance to dive with sharks and manta rays. Taveuni’s Great White Wall is a must-dive site, famous for its luminescent soft corals. The Fijian waters are rich in nutrients, attracting diverse marine life making every dive here a unique and vibrant experience. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Dive the Great White Wall at Taveuni for a spectacular soft coral experience. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>April to October for the best visibility. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Fly to Nadi International Airport and take a domestic flight or boat to your chosen island.</span></p>

Fiji, the “Soft Coral Capital of the World,” is a diver’s dream with its underwater kaleidoscope of colors. The Rainbow Reef and the Great Astrolabe Reef are highlights, offering expansive coral formations and the chance to dive with sharks and manta rays. Taveuni’s Great White Wall is a must-dive site, famous for its luminescent soft corals. The Fijian waters are rich in nutrients, attracting diverse marine life making every dive here a unique and vibrant experience.

Insider’s Tip: Dive the Great White Wall at Taveuni for a spectacular soft coral experience.

When To Travel: April to October for the best visibility.

How To Get There: Fly to Nadi International Airport and take a domestic flight or boat to your chosen island.

<p><span>Scuba diving is an adventure that takes you into an entirely different world, one of silence, beauty, and wonder. Each of these top diving destinations offers something unique, whether it’s swimming with manta rays in the Maldives or exploring historic wrecks in the Red Sea. As you plan your diving journey, remember that the underwater world is a fragile ecosystem that requires our respect and protection. Dive responsibly, cherish every underwater moment, and return with stories of the incredible world beneath the waves.</span></p> <p><span>More Articles Like This…</span></p> <p><a href="https://thegreenvoyage.com/barcelona-discover-the-top-10-beach-clubs/"><span>Barcelona: Discover the Top 10 Beach Clubs</span></a></p> <p><a href="https://thegreenvoyage.com/top-destination-cities-to-visit/"><span>2024 Global City Travel Guide – Your Passport to the World’s Top Destination Cities</span></a></p> <p><a href="https://thegreenvoyage.com/exploring-khao-yai-a-hidden-gem-of-thailand/"><span>Exploring Khao Yai 2024 – A Hidden Gem of Thailand</span></a></p> <p><span>The post <a href="https://passingthru.com/top-scuba-diving-havens-around-the-world/">Discover Underwater Wonders – Top 10 Scuba Diving Paradises Globally</a> republished on </span><a href="https://passingthru.com/"><span>Passing Thru</span></a><span> with permission from </span><a href="https://thegreenvoyage.com/"><span>The Green Voyage</span></a><span>.</span></p> <p><span>Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Patryk Kosmider.</span></p> <p><span>For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.</span></p>

The Bottom Line

Scuba diving is an adventure that takes you into an entirely different world, one of silence, beauty, and wonder. Each of these top diving destinations offers something unique, whether it’s swimming with manta rays in the Maldives or exploring historic wrecks in the Red Sea. As you plan your diving journey, remember that the underwater world is a fragile ecosystem that requires our respect and protection. Dive responsibly, cherish every underwater moment, and return with stories of the incredible world beneath the waves.

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The Best Diving in the Caribbean: 13 Top Destinations
1. Belize. Between Mexico and Guatemala lies Belize, holding a UNESCO World Heritage Site title as the world's second-largest reef system.As well as the world-famous 410ft-deep (125m) Blue Hole, this astounding location holds over 400 islands and is one of the best places for scuba diving in the Caribbean.Above all, the country boasts shore diving, gentle conditions for beginners, and likely ...
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Isla Cozumel, in Mexico's Caribbean Sea, is a terrific year-round scuba diving destination, with excellent yet easy drift dives, stellar visibility, colorful sponges, lots of fish, and a great variety of marine life. On a typical Cozumel dive trip, you will likely see turtles, moray eels, nurse sharks, and lots of colorful tropical fish.
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Scuba diving is an activity that you won't want to miss out on your next Caribbean vacation. Here are some of the best places for diving in the Caribbean: Contents hide. Dominica. Belize. Grand Cayman. Bahamas. Grenada. St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
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WRECK DIVING ON THE USS KITTIWAKE - GRAND CAYMAN. The USS Kittiwake is a 251 ft long, decommissioned ship that was sunk off the coast of Grand Cayman Island. The ship is in relatively shallow water and it's upright. This accessibility makes the Kittiwake one the best purposely sunk wrecks in the world.
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Browse, compare and book 38 dive resorts in the Caribbean.Read divers reviews, check prices and verify amenities before booking. ... scuba travel experts are available 24/7 to assist you in planning and book' + 'ing a fantastic scuba diving vacation' %} Links. Liveaboards; Dive resorts ...
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Dive level: Advanced Available from: Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals Regency La Toc, Sandals Halcyon Beach Keyhole Pinnacle is the spot you want to go to if you want to experience a dive site that has been voted as one of the top 10 in the Caribbean.There are four intriguing volcanic peaks at this location that are encrusted with gorgonian and other types of coral.
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Explore diving in the Caribbean. The area has long attracted explorers and, in more recent times, adventuresome scuba divers. With hundreds of islands, each with a special charm, the Caribbean and scuba exploration go hand-in-hand. You'll find old wrecks, new wrecks, coral reefs, sheer walls, gentle drop offs and fabulous pinnacles to ...
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Dive experiences include Glovers Leaf Atoll, a dive boat trip with incredible biodiversity, and The Blue Hole, an amazing sinkhole dive site. Tobago: Another fantastic trip is to Blue Waters Inn, Tobago - a premier resort destination with a perfect blend of adventurous Caribbean diving holidays and a relaxing stay in paradise.
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Only Beaches all-inclusive Caribbean resorts offer the most comprehensive resort diving program, and best of all, it's all included. Our introductory resort program* is perfect if you've never dived before, with all the instruction and equipment you need for dives up to 40 feet. You'll be able to experience a whole new underwater world the next ...
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For some of the best scuba diving Caribbean islands have to offer, holiday in St Maarten and tag on a trip to Saba. Saba lies to the south west of St Maarten, and is the smallest island in the Dutch Caribbean. This volcanic island offers more than 30 dive sites to explore, with an assortment of drop offs, seamounts and pinnacles.
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Osprey Beach Hotel (Turks and Caicos) This cozy resort sits on the stunning white sand beaches of Turks and Caicos. The onsite dive center, Blue Water Divers, can take you to over 35 dive sites, all within a ten-minute boat ride from Osprey Beach Hotel. You can expect to see sting rays, hawksbill and green turtles, reef sharks and more.
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The Best Liveaboard Trips in the Caribbean. Cecily Russell. Get onboard with the unsurpassable dive sites that the Caribbean holds. Cruise through Turks and Caicos for humpback whale watching. Or, chill out in an onboard hammock after hammerhead sightings in The Bahamas. The Caribbean holds underwater secrets like no other region, with an ...
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Like water temperature, visibility can vary from island to island in the Caribbean. Because you'll be diving from a liveaboard, you'll experience the best visibility in this part of the world. Visibility at remote dive sites can reach up to 100 feet (30m) although more often you'll have visibility between 50-65 feet (15-20m).
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The Belize Aggressor III is simply one of the best luxury liveaboard diving Caribbean trips! It's on a 36m yacht that offers impeccable service at some of the best diving spots in the Caribbean. The onboard rooms are sparkling clean, the food delicious and the dives numbering up to five a day!
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Certified Divers. At Sandals when we say we include SCUBA, we mean it! If you're a certified diver, we let you dive every day (except your departure day) - twice a day with one tank or once a day with two tanks. We provide you with the most comprehensive diving programme, voted by PADI as one of the Top 5 in the Western Hemisphere.
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Free dive insurance. With incredible, off-the-beaten path itineraries that take guests to St Kitts, Saba and St Maarten, this leading liveaboard spoils divers with five dives each day, scenic geography and a unique slice of Caribbean culture. From USD 237. per day.
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Build your ideal Caribbean trip. Call 1.406.541.2677. Experience the best SCUBA diving around Caribbean on one of these 3 diving trips organized by Adventure Life. Explore the top dive spots near Mayreau, Pigeon Island, Jost Van Dyke, Soufriere, and Fort de France as you dive among coral reefs, myriad fish species, and an abundance of marine life.
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10 Best Places for SCUBA Diving in The Caribbean

Belize

Grand Cayman

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Turks and Caicos

The Virgin Islands

Puerto Rico

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The 10 Best Diving Spots in the Caribbean

GLOVERS REEF – BELIZE

FREE DIVING WITH HUMPBACK WHALES – DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

TENT REEF – SABA

DIVING WITH GREAT HAMMERHEAD SHARKS – BAHAMAS

SHORE DIVING AT BONAIRE ISLAND

FREE DIVING WITH WHALE SHARKS – UTILA, HONDURAS

WRECK DIVING ON THE USS KITTIWAKE – GRAND CAYMAN

DIVING IN COZUMEL – MEXICO

DIVING WITH CARIBBEAN REEF SHARKS – ROATAN, HONDURAS

FREE DIVING WITH SPERM WHALES – DOMINICA

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The Best Diving in the Caribbean – 12 Islands to Explore

1. Roatán

4. St Croix

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8. Cayman Islands

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11. Dominica

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Where to go diving in the Caribbean, from Belize to the Bahamas

1. The Cayman Islands

2. The Bahamas

3. Belize & Honduras

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15 Best Liveaboards in the Caribbean: EPIC Scuba Diving Trips

1) Belize Aggressor III

2) Caribbean Explorer II

3) Avalon II Liveaboard

4) Cayman Aggressor V

5) Nautilus Belle Amie

6) Cuan Law