Dive Site: Cowboy Reef

About Cowboy Reef

Cowboy Reef, located in the waters of St. Maarten, is a popular dive destination celebrated for its rich biodiversity and accessible diving conditions. This reef forms part of a larger protected marine area, contributing to the flourishing ecosystem found here. Divers can expect to encounter an abundance of colorful fish species, a variety of corals, and intriguing underwater topography. The site is characterized by its relatively shallow depths, making it suitable for a wide range of divers, from beginners to more experienced enthusiasts. The reef structure itself provides numerous hiding spots and feeding grounds for marine creatures, ensuring a dynamic and engaging dive experience. The clear Caribbean waters further enhance visibility, allowing for excellent viewing of the underwater spectacle. Marine life sightings are consistently impressive, with frequent encounters of reef sharks, stingrays, and various schooling fish. The warm water temperatures throughout the year create an inviting environment for both the marine inhabitants and divers alike. Cowboy Reef offers a quintessential Caribbean diving experience, combining vibrant reef exploration with comfortable diving parameters. Access to Cowboy Reef is typically by boat, with numerous operators offering trips to this well-regarded site. The generally mild currents and good visibility contribute to a relaxed dive, allowing ample time for observation and photography. It’s a site that showcases the natural beauty and ecological health of St. Maarten's underwater world.

Dive site facts: Cowboy Reef

Depth

12–18 m

Current

Mild to none

Visibility

12–30 m

Water temperature

25–28°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Open Water Diver

Dive type

Reef, marine life

Region / port

St. Maarten

Coordinates

18.015, -63.11

Conditions & Currents

Cowboy Reef typically experiences mild to non-existent currents, making it a comfortable dive for most skill levels. Divers can anticipate relaxed conditions that allow for leisurely exploration of the reef. However, occasional rougher seas can occur, particularly during the hurricane season from June to November, which might affect surface conditions and entry/exit. Visibility generally remains excellent, ranging from 12 to 30 meters, contributing to an unhindered view of the marine environment. Water temperatures are consistently warm, between 25°C and 28°C, eliminating the concern for thermoclines. Divers should be prepared for boat entry and exit, common for sites in St. Maarten, and always follow the dive guide's instructions for safe procedures.

Marine life & sighting chances

Caribbean reef shark

Year-round · occasional

Nurse shark

Year-round · occasional

Southern stingray

Year-round · common

Green sea turtle

Year-round · common

Barracuda

Year-round · common

Moray eel

Year-round · common

Grouper

Year-round · common

Lobster

Year-round · occasional

Angelfish

Year-round · common

Trumpetfish

Year-round · common

Parrotfish

Year-round · common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Your dive at Cowboy Reef begins with a boat entry, typically a giant stride, followed by a controlled descent to the reef at around 12 meters. The dive usually progresses along the vibrant coral formations, allowing you to observe the abundant marine life, including various reef fish, moray eels, and occasionally stingrays. You'll typically maintain a depth between 12 to 18 meters, exploring the contours and crevices of the reef. Towards the latter part of the dive, as air consumption dictates, you'll begin a slow ascent, often ending with a safety stop at 5 meters for 3 minutes. The boat will remain close by to pick up divers upon surfacing, ensuring a convenient exit.

Underwater photography

Cowboy Reef offers fantastic opportunities for underwater photography, particularly for wide-angle shots due to its expansive reef structure and excellent visibility. You'll want a wide-angle lens to capture the vibrant coral gardens and schooling fish, while a macro lens can focus on the smaller critters hiding within the reef. Natural light is usually sufficient for much of the dive given the shallow depths, but strobes will enhance colors and reduce backscatter, especially for subjects further away. Maintain impeccable buoyancy to avoid disturbing the delicate coral and marine life, ensuring clear shots and respectful interaction. Pay attention to resident Caribbean reef sharks or stingrays for compelling action shots, and always prioritize the well-being of the marine subjects.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Fish Bowl

  A circular reef with a swim-through, known for diverse marine life including nurse sharks and barracudas.

• Big Mama's Reef

  Famous for shark diving, offering encounters with Caribbean reef sharks in shallow waters.

• HMS Proselyte

  A popular wreck dive transformed into an artificial reef, covered in coral and marine life.

• Carib Cargo

  A penetrable wreck site often used for training, home to stingrays, reef sharks, and green sea turtles.

• Fuh Sheng

  A deep artificial reef wreck suitable for advanced divers, with schooling fish and eagle rays.

Getting there & logistics

To dive Cowboy Reef, you typically fly into Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten. Most dive operations depart from various marinas on the Dutch side of the island. Day trips usually combine Cowboy Reef with one or two other nearby sites, offering a full day of diving. Liveaboard options are rare for St. Maarten-specific itineraries, but some Caribbean liveaboards may include the island as part of a longer regional tour, often combined with Saba or St. Kitts. No special permits are generally required for recreational diving at Cowboy Reef, as dive operators handle access to the marine park, which may include a small fee embedded in your dive package. Trips are usually half-day or full-day excursions.

Safety & environment

For diving in St. Maarten, including Cowboy Reef, it is advisable to have comprehensive dive insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Saba, requiring a potentially lengthy boat transfer, highlighting the importance of preventative safety measures. Site-specific hazards at Cowboy Reef are minimal due to generally mild currents and shallow depths. However, always listen carefully to your dive brief regarding boat traffic and entry/exit procedures. Maintain proper buoyancy to protect the reef and avoid contact with marine life. Ensure your equipment is well-maintained and never dive beyond your certification or comfort level.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Cowboy Reef FAQ

Liveaboards diving Cowboy Reef

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

Caribbean Explorer II

St. Maarten

18 guests

$224/day