Dive Site: Carib Cargo

About Carib Cargo

The Carib Cargo, also known as Carib Ghost or RoRo, is an inter-island trader that now serves as one of St. Maarten's premier wreck dive sites. Originally damaged by Hurricane Luis in 1995, it was subsequently taken off its moorings by Hurricane Bertha in 1996, eventually settling upright on a sandy patch off Philipsburg. Its clear waters and position make it an excellent location for both wreck diving training and photography. Sitting at a depth of 18 to 20 meters, the wreck is easily accessible, especially through shore entry, providing a true shipwreck experience rather than a manufactured artificial reef. The structure offers various points of interest, including its open sections for exploration, though some interior areas are restricted for safety. Surrounding the wreck, a pristine sandy bottom contributes to excellent visibility, allowing divers to appreciate the structure and the diverse marine life it attracts. The site is bustling with activity, frequently visited by large schools of fish such as trevally, French grunts, and yellow snapper. Divers often encounter southern stingrays, reef sharks, green sea turtles, barracudas, and moray eels. Spiny lobsters are also commonly found both within and around the wreck, adding to the rich biodiversity. If fortunate, divers might even spot eagle rays or dolphins. Carib Cargo is well-suited for a calm morning dive, when conditions are typically optimal for visibility and exploration. It's part of the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area, which prohibits fishing and emphasizes the preservation of the site. Its straightforward nature and diverse ecosystem make it appealing to various diver levels, from those undergoing wreck training to experienced photographers.

Dive site facts: Carib Cargo

Depth

18–20 m

Typical dive

18 m, 43–60 min

Current

Mild to none

Visibility

12–30 m

Water temperature

25–28°C

Entry

Boat / shore entry

Level

Open Water, Wreck Diver for penetration

Dive type

Wreck, artificial reef, photography

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Coordinates

18.002, -63.062

Conditions & Currents

Dive conditions at Carib Cargo are typically characterized by little to no current, making it a comfortable site for divers of various skill levels. The relatively calm seas and absence of strong currents allow for relaxed exploration of the wreck. Visibility is generally excellent, ranging from 12 to 30 meters, but it can occasionally be influenced by Atlantic swells. Divers should be aware that while the site is usually placid, surface chop can occur, particularly during stronger trade winds in winter. The clear water and minimal current contribute to Carib Cargo being an ideal spot for detailed wreck exploration and underwater photography without significant drift or strenuous swimming.

Marine life & sighting chances

Southern stingray

common

Caribbean reef shark

common

Green sea turtle

common

Great barracuda

common

Moray eel

common

Spiny lobster

common

Eagle ray

occasional

Dolphin

occasional

Trevally

common

French grunt

common

Yellow snapper

common

Hawksbill sea turtle

occasional

Nurse shark

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving the Carib Cargo typically begins with a descent to the sandy bottom at approximately 18 to 20 meters, where the wreck rests upright. Divers can approach the wreck either from a boat or through a shore entry, with the open sand offering clear navigation. The initial exploration focuses on the exterior, observing schooling fish and other marine life that frequent the structure. As you circumnavigate the wreck, you'll find various open sections suitable for careful inspection. For those with appropriate wreck diving certifications, selective penetration into the wheelhouse and other internal areas is possible, though some sections are now closed. The dive often progresses along the length of the vessel, allowing close observation of marine inhabitants like lobsters and moray eels. A gradual ascent along the wreck or nearby sandy areas is recommended, concluding with a safety stop at 5 meters in the clear, often current-free waters before surfacing.

Underwater photography

The Carib Cargo offers excellent conditions for underwater photography, particularly for wide-angle shots due to its clear water and the wreck's upright, intact structure. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the entire vessel or large sections of it, especially when schooling fish like trevally and grunts are present around the deck. For macro enthusiasts, the wreck's nooks and crannies provide ample opportunities to find spiny lobsters, moray eels, and smaller reef creatures. Consider bringing strobes to enhance color and definition, as natural light can fade at depth, especially within the wreck's interior. When exploring internal sections, use a dive light to illuminate dark areas and reveal hidden subjects. Maintaining excellent buoyancy is crucial to avoid stirring up sediment from the sandy bottom or damaging the wreck, ensuring clear shots and preserving the site for future photographers. Patience is key for capturing the frequently seen stingrays, sharks, and turtles that visit the wreck.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• HMS Proselyte

  A historic frigate wreck in shallow water, known for its coral growth and artifacts.

• Fish Bowl

  A circular reef within Man O'War Shoal Marine Park, featuring a spectacular swim-through.

• Gregory

  A sunken transport barge lying upside down, attracting barracudas, eagle rays, and turtles.

• Charlie's Shoal

  An undisturbed fringing reef with calm waters, great visibility, and frequent turtle and ray sightings.

• The Bridge

  Features several yacht wrecks and bridge remains, now heavily colonized by marine life, with stingrays and reef sharks.

Getting there & logistics

Accessing St. Maarten usually involves flying into Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), which serves as a major hub in the Caribbean. From the airport, many dive operations are based in Philipsburg, where the Carib Cargo is located nearby. Dive trips to Carib Cargo are typically part of daily dive excursions offered by local dive shops, often combined with a second, shallower dive site. Most dive packages are resort-based, though the Caribbean Explorer II liveaboard occasionally includes St. Maarten in its itineraries. There is a marine park fee of approximately $3 per diver, as the Carib Cargo is situated within the Man O'War Shoal Marine Protected Area. Full dive gear rental is available from local operators, and some divers opt to bring only personal items like masks and computers. Trips are generally planned for the morning to capitalize on calmer conditions and best visibility.

Safety & environment

Diving the Carib Cargo requires careful attention to safety protocols, particularly due to its nature as a wreck dive. While the wreck itself is accessible and generally in good condition, some interior sections are restricted for safety reasons. Divers are advised to only attempt penetration if they possess appropriate wreck diving certifications and have received a thorough local briefing. Always stay within guide-approved areas. The nearest recompression chamber is in St. Maarten, located within a reasonable distance for emergencies, but divers should always carry adequate dive insurance, such as DAN, to cover potential evacuation and medical treatment. Standard diving practices, including monitoring air consumption, depth, and bottom time, are paramount. As with any dive, never dive beyond your training or comfort level, and consult with your dive operator regarding daily conditions, as Atlantic swells can occasionally affect visibility and sea state. The site is part of a marine park, so adhering to rules against disturbing marine life or artifacts is essential.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Carib Cargo FAQ

Liveaboards diving Carib Cargo

These liveaboards may visit Carib Cargo on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Caribbean Explorer II

St. Maarten

18 guests

$224/day