Dive Site: Explorers Reef

About Explorers Reef

Explorers Reef is a captivating dive site located within the Man of War Shoal Marine Park in St. Maarten, a protected area spanning nearly 8,000 acres. This site is renowned for its diverse marine ecosystem and serves as an excellent introduction to Caribbean diving. It features extensive coral formations and a rich variety of reef fish, making it a popular spot for both novice and experienced divers seeking a relaxed underwater adventure. The reef primarily consists of healthy, coral-encrusted structures, offering a vibrant habitat for countless species. The average depth here makes it accessible for open water certification levels, while the good visibility ensures an enjoyable experience. Divers can explore various nooks and crannies within the reef, discovering hidden marine life. While the reef itself teems with smaller tropical species year-round, the protected status of the marine park contributes to a healthy population of larger creatures. Encounters with Caribbean reef sharks, various ray species, and sea turtles are occasional but add an exciting element to the dive. The best months for diving generally align with the island's drier season, offering optimal conditions. Diving Explorers Reef typically involves a relaxed pace, allowing ample time to observe the intricate details of the coral landscape and its inhabitants. The site is often combined with other nearby reefs as part of a multi-dive itinerary, providing a comprehensive view of St. Maarten's underwater beauty.

Dive site facts: Explorers Reef

Depth

5–18 m

Typical dive

12–18 m, 50–60 min

Current

Mild

Visibility

15–30 m

Water temperature

26–29°C

Entry

Boat

Level

All levels

Dive type

Reef, marine park

Region / port

St. Maarten

Coordinates

17.996, -63.044

Conditions & Currents

Explorers Reef typically experiences generally weak currents, contributing to its suitability for divers of all experience levels. Conditions are usually calm, which allows for relaxed exploration of the reef's features without significant physical exertion. Visibility at the site consistently ranges from 15 to 30 meters, providing clear views of the marine life and coral structures. Entry and exit procedures are usually straightforward boat dives, with surfaces often calm enough to facilitate easy transitions. While the site is generally sheltered, divers should always be aware of local conditions and follow their dive guide's instructions for the safest experience.

Marine life & sighting chances

Caribbean reef shark

occasional

Nurse shark

occasional

Green turtle

occasional

Hawksbill turtle

occasional

Barracuda

common

Grouper

common

French angelfish

common

Queen angelfish

common

Parrotfish

common

Sharp nose puffer

common

Trumpetfish

common

Stingray

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Explorers Reef typically begin with a backward roll entry from the dive boat directly onto the reef. Divers descend to an average depth of 12-18 meters, following the natural contours of the coral formations. The dive usually progresses with the mild current, allowing for a relaxed drift along the reef, exploring the various coral structures and searching for marine life. Guides often lead divers past areas with prominent coral heads and into small, sheltered sections where reef fish congregate. The turn point is determined by air consumption and bottom time, typically halfway through the planned dive duration. Ascent usually involves a gradual climb to a shallower depth for the safety stop, performed over the reef or in the blue, depending on boat positioning, before surfacing near the pick-up vessel.

Underwater photography

Explorers Reef provides excellent opportunities for wide-angle photography, capturing the expansive coral formations and schooling reef fish. A wide-angle lens with external strobes will effectively illuminate the vibrant colors of the hard and soft corals. For macro subjects, such as small gobies, nudibranchs, or juvenile fish hiding within the reef, a macro lens is essential. Buoyancy control is paramount to avoid damaging delicate corals and disturbing marine life, ensuring both ethical diving and clear shots. Patience is key when photographing the shyer inhabitants; often, waiting calmly will allow subjects to emerge from their hiding spots. Pay attention to ambient light, as the clear Caribbean waters offer beautiful natural illumination, especially at shallower depths.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Charlie's Shoal

  A fringing reef with calm waters, suitable for encountering turtles, rays, and nurse sharks.

• Fish Bowl

  A large circular reef known for fantastic marine diversity and coral arches to swim through.

• Big Mama's Reef

  A sandy expanse surrounded by coral, excellent for shark sightings and accessible for all levels.

• HMS Proselyte

  A popular wreck dive, now an artificial reef covered in corals and marine life, including anchors and cannons.

Getting there & logistics

The primary international gateway to St. Maarten is Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), offering connections from North America and Europe. Most dive operations depart from Philipsburg or Simpson Bay on the Dutch side of the island. Day trips typically involve two dives at different sites. Liveaboard options, such as the Caribbean Explorer II, occasionally include St. Maarten in their itineraries, often combining it with nearby Saba and St. Kitts for extended trips. St. Maarten does not currently have a separate marine park fee, as the Man of War Shoal Marine Park's protection is integrated into local regulations. It's advisable to confirm any potential fees with your chosen dive operator.

Safety & environment

For dive emergencies in St. Maarten, the nearest recompression chamber is located in Saba, requiring an emergency evacuation by boat or air. It is crucial for all divers to have comprehensive dive insurance that covers medical emergencies and potential evacuation, as local medical facilities may have limited advanced care capabilities for diving-related incidents. Divers should always follow their guide's instructions, maintain proper buoyancy control to protect the fragile coral environment, and never touch marine life. Given the typically mild currents, the primary hazard at Explorers Reef is often related to boat traffic, so proper surface signaling and awareness are essential upon surfacing.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Explorers Reef FAQ

Liveaboards diving Explorers Reef

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

Caribbean Explorer II

St. Maarten

18 guests

$224/day