Big Mama's Reef Dive Site — St. Maarten
About Big Mama's Reef
A large coral ridge running parallel to the coastline, named after a famously large barrel sponge that once anchored the site. The reef wall drops from 8 to 22 metres and is riddled with overhangs sheltering lobsters, spotted drum, and juvenile spotted eagle rays. Night dives here reveal octopus hunting, basket stars unfurling, and bioluminescent plankton.
Site Information
- Depth: 12–50 m
- Difficulty: beginner
- Site type: Reef
- Current: The dive site experiences weak currents, making it suitable for a wide range of divers. Entry is typically via boat, with liveaboard cruises offering the most comfortable access to avoid potentially choppy seas.
- Best time: Diving in St. Martin/Sint Maarten is a year-round activity, with water temperatures ranging from 77°F (25°C) in winter to 81-84°F (28-29°C) in summer.
- Region: St. Maarten
Highlights
- Barrel sponge
- Night diving
- Lobsters