Dive Site: Lucy's Barge

About Lucy's Barge

Lucy's Barge is a shipwreck dive site located in the waters of Sint Maarten, a Dutch territory in the Caribbean. The barge, which sank in 1991, rests at a depth of approximately 55 to 60 feet (16.7 to 18.3 meters). While the wreck is significantly broken apart due to storm damage over the years, key components like the engine block and propeller are still recognizable, offering distinct points of interest for divers. The site has transformed into a vibrant artificial reef, supporting a rich diversity of marine life. Soft corals now encase the fragmented structure, providing shelter and sustenance for numerous species. Divers can expect to find a variety of creatures seeking refuge or hunting among the wreckage and corals. Lucy's Barge is particularly known as a sanctuary for various eels and crustaceans, making it an excellent spot for observing these creatures in their natural habitat. Green, Hawksbill, and Loggerhead turtles are also frequently seen here, often gliding gracefully through the water or resting near the wreck. Additionally, the wreck's proximity to Proselyte Reef allows for potential combined dive experiences, offering an extended exploration of St. Maarten's underwater landscape. This site caters to certified divers who can comfortably navigate its moderate depth. The calm conditions typically found in St. Maarten's protected areas make it an enjoyable and accessible wreck dive, providing ample opportunity for observation and underwater photography amidst its rich ecosystems.

Dive site facts: Lucy's Barge

Depth

16.7–18.3 m / 55–60 ft

Typical dive

16.7–18.3 m, 55–60 min

Current

Mild to moderate

Visibility

20–36 m / 65–120 ft (variable)

Water temperature

25–30 °C / 77–88 °F

Entry

Boat / negative entry possible

Level

Open Water Diver

Dive type

Wreck, reef, photography

Region / port

Sint Maarten (Netherlands Antilles)

Coordinates

18.0333° N, 63.0957° W

Conditions & Currents

St. Maarten's dive sites, including Lucy's Barge, are typically located off the coast and are considered open ocean, although the Man of War Shoal Marine Park area often provides protected conditions. Surface chop can be more pronounced in winter due to stronger trade winds from the northeast, while summer months generally bring calmer seas. Northerly swells from December to March can temporarily reduce visibility and influence surface conditions. Divers should always check local forecasts and dive conditions, as site selection is weather-dependent and may change based on wind and wave patterns. Average visibility can reach up to 120 feet (36 meters) in calm seas, but it can be reduced during periods of stronger currents or swells. Light to moderate currents are generally expected, making for comfortable diving for most certified divers. Divers should plan their gas consumption factoring

Marine life & sighting chances

Barracuda

common

Green Turtle

common

Eagle Ray

occasional

Moray Eel

common

Hawksbill Turtle

occasional

Loggerhead Turtle

rare

Caribbean Reef Shark

occasional

Angelfish

common

Parrotfish

common

Pufferfish

occasional

Blacktip Reef Shark

occasional

Butterfly Fish

occasional

Surgeonfish

occasional

Nurse Shark

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Lucy's Barge typically begin with a descent directly to the wreck, which lies between 55 to 60 feet deep. The wreck is broken up, so the dive plan usually involves exploring the various sections of the scattered barge, including recognizable features like the engine block and propeller. Divers will circumnavigate the wreckage, paying close attention to the soft coral growth and looking for resident marine life such as lobsters and moray eels hiding within the crevices. The relatively shallow depth allows for extended bottom time, often around 50 to 60 minutes, enabling thorough exploration. The dive typically concludes with a slow ascent, including a safety stop, often performed in the surrounding clear waters before returning to the surface boat. This site's proximity to Proselyte Reef means that some itineraries may integrate parts of both sites.

Underwater photography

Lucy's Barge, with its scattered wreck components and abundant marine life, offers excellent opportunities for wide-angle and macro photography. For capturing the overall structure and scale of the wreck, a wide-angle lens is ideal. The soft corals draped over the wreckage create a colorful backdrop, and natural light penetrates well due to the site's moderate depth. When focusing on the smaller inhabitants like lobsters, moray eels, and various reef fish, a macro lens will be beneficial. Ensure proper buoyancy control to avoid disturbing the delicate coral and stirring up sediment. Using strobes can enhance colors and bring out details in darker areas of the wreck. Be patient and observe marine life to capture natural behaviors, especially the often-shy eels and crustaceans. For turtles, a medium wide-angle lens works well.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Proselyte Reef

  Close to Lucy's Barge, allowing for potential combined exploration.

• The Gregory

  A purpose-sunk wreck lying upside down, surrounded by soft coral and sponges.

• The Bridge

  Features multiple sunken installations on a sandy bottom, attracting varied marine life.

• The Porpoise

  A tugboat wreck sitting upright on a sandy bottom, with sponge growth and abundant wildlife.

Getting there & logistics

To reach Lucy's Barge, divers typically fly into Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten. Dive trips usually depart from various dive centers located on the Dutch side of the island. Most dive operators in St. Maarten offer daily two-tank dive excursions, which often include sites like Lucy's Barge. There are no specific marine park fees mentioned for this particular site, but some dive operations may include general marine park contributions in their pricing. Trips can vary from single-day excursions to multi-day dive packages, often combining wreck dives with visits to nearby reef sites. The convenient boat access to dive sites ensures efficient transfers and maximizes underwater time.

Safety & environment

St. Maarten does not have a recompression chamber directly on the island, meaning any serious decompression sickness cases would require evacuation to a facility in a neighboring island or territory, such as Puerto Rico or Saba. Therefore, comprehensive dive insurance, like that provided by DAN, is strongly recommended for all divers visiting Lucy's Barge. Divers should always be medically fit to dive and carry proof of certification. Although Lucy's Barge is not a complex wreck, its fragmented nature means divers should avoid attempting penetration. Always dive within your training limits and comfort level. Pay attention to your dive guide's briefing regarding local conditions and emergency procedures. If you feel unwell or congested, it is advisable to postpone diving. Plan for 24 hours between your last dive and flying.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Lucy's Barge FAQ

Liveaboards diving Lucy's Barge

These liveaboards may visit Lucy's Barge on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Caribbean Explorer II

St. Maarten

18 guests

$249/day