Dive Site: Hen and Chickens

About Hen and Chickens

Hen and Chickens, an intriguing dive site near St. Maarten, is composed of a main rock formation, the "Hen," surrounded by several smaller rocks, the "Chickens." This unique topography provides a varied underwater landscape, making it a compelling destination for divers exploring the Caribbean. The site's structure creates numerous crevices, overhangs, and swim-throughs that shelter diverse marine species. Depths at Hen and Chickens typically range from around 9 meters (30 feet) to a maximum of 20 meters (65 feet), allowing for extended bottom times and accessibility for various skill levels. Divers can explore the intricate rock formations, observing the vibrant coral growth and the abundant smaller marine life that seeks refuge within its nooks. The relatively shallow nature of the site also contributes to excellent natural lighting, enhancing visibility and making it particularly appealing for underwater photography. The site is home to a rich variety of Caribbean marine life. You can often spot lobsters, crabs, and schooling fish weaving through the coral structures. While specific seasonal aggregations are not detailed for this site, the general St. Maarten waters boast over 700 species, including green sea turtles, nurse sharks, and various reef fish such as surgeonfish, grouper, and trumpetfish. Lucky divers might also encounter moray eels and barracudas. Hen and Chickens is generally considered a suitable dive for all experience levels due to its moderate depths. Entry is typically made directly from the dive boat, with conditions usually calm enough for comfortable diving. The currents here are generally mild, making for a relaxed exploration of the reef's features. It's often included as part of a multi-dive itinerary, allowing divers to experience the breadth of St. Maarten's underwater offerings.

Dive site facts: Hen and Chickens

Depth

5–22 m

Typical dive

12–18 m, 50–60 min

Current

Mild

Visibility

20–36 m

Water temperature

25–30°C

Entry

Boat

Level

All levels

Dive type

Reef, coral garden, photography

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

St. Maarten

Coordinates

17.988, -63.048

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Hen and Chickens Reef are generally mild, making it suitable for divers of all levels. While the prevailing trade winds can cause some surface chop, especially during the stronger winter months, underwater conditions remain calm. Visibility is typically excellent, often reaching up to 36 meters in calm seas. Northerly swells generated by North Atlantic storms can occasionally reduce visibility between December and March, but these are usually temporary. Divers should always assess conditions before entry and be aware of any local guidance, especially during the hurricane season from June to November, although disruptions are typically short-lived.

Marine life & sighting chances

Yellowtail Snapper

Year-round · common

Grunt

Year-round · common

Barracuda

Year-round · occasional

Tarpon

Year-round · occasional

Eagle Ray

Year-round · occasional

Brain Coral

Year-round · common

Star Coral

Year-round · common

Green Sea Turtle

Year-round · occasional

Sponges

Year-round · common

Gorgonians

Year-round · common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Your dive at Hen and Chickens typically begins with a boat entry onto the reef. Given the shallow depths, you'll have ample opportunity for exploration. The dive usually follows the contours of the reef, allowing you to observe the impressive brain and star coral formations that give the site its name. You will navigate through areas teeming with schools of yellowtail snapper and grunts, keeping an eye out for barracuda and tarpon that frequent the site. The route often involves a leisurely exploration around the main coral heads and any remnants of the old iron barge. The dive typically maintains depths between 5 and 18 meters, maximizing bottom time. A safety stop can be performed directly over the shallow reef, enjoying the last moments among the vibrant fish life before surfacing.

Underwater photography

Hen and Chickens Reef is a photographer's paradise due to its shallow depths and abundant natural light. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the expansive coral formations, particularly the massive brain and star corals, and the large schools of fish. For macro enthusiasts, there are plenty of smaller reef inhabitants to discover within the coral crevices. The excellent visibility and shallow conditions mean that natural light photography is highly effective, though a strobe will enhance colors and reduce backscatter. Ensure good buoyancy control to avoid contact with the delicate coral structures while positioning for your shots. Patiently observe marine life; barracudas and tarpons are often seen, and with luck, an eagle ray might glide into frame.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Tug Boat Annie

  Tug Boat Annie, located off the coast of St.

• Pelican Rock

  Pelican Rock is a prominent and well-loved dive site in St.

• Molly Beday Reef

  Molly Beday Reef, situated off Geneve Bay on the eastern side of St.

• Charlie's Shoal

  A coral ridge with abundant marine diversity, known for stingrays and nurse sharks.

• Big Mama's Reef

  A shark diving site where divers can encounter Caribbean reef sharks.

Getting there & logistics

St. Maarten is easily accessible via Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), which serves as a major hub for the Northeastern Caribbean. Most dive operations depart from Philipsburg or Simpson Bay. A typical dive trip to Hen and Chickens is part of a two-tank dive excursion, often combined with another nearby reef or wreck site. There are no specific marine park fees mentioned for this site, but general marine park rules apply, prohibiting the removal of any marine life or historical artifacts. Liveaboards operating in the region may include this site in their itineraries, providing multi-day dive packages.

Safety & environment

Diving in St. Maarten is generally safe due to its calm conditions and shallow depths. However, standard dive safety practices are paramount. Ensure your certification card is valid and always dive within your limits. Comprehensive dive insurance, such as a DAN card, is highly recommended. The nearest recompression chamber is typically located in a larger medical facility on the island, though specific details should be confirmed with your dive operator. Marine park regulations strictly prohibit spearfishing or collecting any marine life; these rules are enforced to preserve the ecosystem. Always maintain proper buoyancy to avoid contact with corals, and stay hydrated, especially in the warm Caribbean climate.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Hen and Chickens FAQ

Liveaboards diving Hen and Chickens

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

Caribbean Explorer II

St. Maarten

18 guests

$224/day