Scuba Diving In Dominica

If you are interested in visiting Dominica, you’ll be pleased to know that this island country offers several attractions to immerse yourself in, from volcanic vents to walls covered in coral.

The north end of the island of Dominica is a protected area known as the Cabrits Marine Reserve. You can dive in this area, but there is a strict policy that bars you from touching anything. However, this is not unusual and is the policy of most marine reserves. There is a small fee associated with the park but this is important as it goes back into the reserve to help pay for upkeep costs. There are several dive sites on the Island and each of them are outfitted with moorings. The number of sites is always expanding when new potential areas are located.

Photo by Andrewl04

Scuba diving in Dominica is a unique experience due to the unusual nature of the island. For one example, the sand in the area is much darker than is usual at dive sites, so this creates an optical illusion that causes the water to appear much deeper than it really is in some areas. Diving may only be engaged in at approved locations. Each of these spots employs knowledgeable guides that can point out the especially rare sights and make sure you get back to land safely. Even so, you never know what types of creatures might be lurking so be certain to keep your eyes moving at all times.

There are several excellent spots that beginners can enjoy on the Island of Dominica. The Cabrits is a series of sites that features attractive reefs that drop down into a sandy bottom. Currents in these areas typically bring in large schools of Creole fish. The Soufriere Pinnacles feature deep water and a fascinating series of multi-colored coral. The most impressive sights are actually located within the first 50 feet of the water so you will not have to dive very far to find everything. This is a great spot for the inexperienced diver to spot seahorses and frogfish.

Photo by Andrewl04

The more experienced diver has plenty to experience when scuba diving in Dominica as well. Pinard features a long, 300 foot tunnel filled with reef fish and other impressive sights. For the wreck diver, Cottage Point may be the perfect spot. Here you can explore the remains of an eighteenth century sailing vessel. Or there is also Douglas Point which offers several excellent dive sites. It is possible to spot a wide range of fantastic creatures from these locations including barracuda, flamingo tongue snails, cero mackerel, and many other fantastic species of tropical fish.

For the highly experienced diver, the best place to visit in Dominica may very well be Five Finger Rock. This spot is located very close to the Cabrits Peninsula. Here you can spot many marine life species including squirrelfish, flounder, tobacco fish, and angelfish. These are just a few of the many excellent spots for scuba diving in Dominica.