Dive Site: Maze

About Maze

The Maze is an exceptionally beautiful and relatively shallow dive site located within the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area in St. Maarten. It is renowned for its healthy coral structures and an abundance of labyrinthine swim-throughs formed by rock formations. These natural mazes provide an engaging experience for divers, guiding them through a landscape rich with marine life. Beginning at approximately 12 meters (40 feet), the site maintains a comfortable depth that makes it accessible to a wide range of divers. The vibrant corals and complex topography create an ideal habitat for numerous species, offering continuous visual interest throughout the dive. Visibility is often excellent, enhancing the experience of navigating the natural underwater corridors. The site is a haven for larger marine animals, with frequent sightings of various shark species and sea turtles navigating its intricate pathways. The mild currents typically encountered here further contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable dive, allowing ample time for exploration and observation of the diverse ecosystem. The Maze is a prime example of St. Maarten's commitment to marine preservation, showcasing thriving reefs within its protected waters.

Dive site facts: Maze

Depth

12–16 m

Typical dive

12–16 m, 48 min

Current

Mild

Visibility

15–30 m

Water temperature

26–29 °C

Entry

Tender

Level

Open Water Diver

Dive type

Reef, swim-throughs

Night dive

Possible at select sites in the region

Region / port

Dutch St. Maarten

Coordinates

18.008, -63.052

Conditions & Currents

Currents at the Maze are typically mild, making for a relaxed diving experience suitable for various skill levels. This allows divers to comfortably navigate the site's intricate swim-throughs and observe marine life without significant exertion. Entry is usually by tender, providing direct access to the dive site.

Marine life & sighting chances

Nurse shark

common

Hawksbill sea turtle

common

Green sea turtle

common

Spiny lobster

common

Great barracuda

occasional

Green moray eel

occasional

Spotted eagle ray

occasional

Caribbean reef shark

occasional

Tarpon

occasional

Longsnout seahorse

rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Your dive at the Maze typically begins with a descent to approximately 12 meters (40 feet), where you immediately encounter the site's defining rock formations and healthy coral. The route involves navigating through the natural, maze-like swim-throughs and around the vibrant reef structures. You will gradually explore the coral formations, observing the abundant marine life that inhabits these sheltered areas, including frequent sightings of sharks and turtles. The maximum depth of the site is around 16 meters (50 feet), allowing for extended bottom times. The dive concludes with a gradual ascent, often incorporating a safety stop at 5 meters along the reef, offering more opportunities for observation before surfacing.

Underwater photography

The Maze offers excellent opportunities for wide-angle photography due to its extensive coral formations and intricate swim-throughs. A fisheye or wide-angle lens will capture the grandeur of the maze-like structures and the healthy reef scape. Given the shallow depth of 12-16 meters, ambient light is usually sufficient, but strobes are recommended to bring out the true colors of the corals and fish. Focus on capturing sharks and turtles within the reef's natural arches. Maintain excellent buoyancy control when maneuvering through the swim-throughs to avoid disturbing the delicate coral.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• HMS Proselyte

  A historic wreck known for cannons and abundant fish life.

• Carib Cargo

  A wreck providing habitat for schools of trevally and snappers.

• Gregory

  An upside-down transport barge attracting barracudas and eagle rays.

• Fish Bowl

  A circular reef bustling with diverse fish species and large swim-throughs.

• Charlie's Shoal

  A quiet coral reef ridge with frequent turtle and stingray sightings.

Getting there & logistics

Diving the Maze is typically part of a day boat trip from St. Maarten, with most dive operators located on the Dutch side of the island. Philipsburg or Simpson Bay are common departure points. Liveaboards in the region, such as the Caribbean Explorer II, often include St. Maarten in their itineraries, though they may combine it with Saba and St. Kitts. Divers should be aware of a marine park fee, usually around $3, which supports the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area. Trips generally last for a day, with multiple dives at various sites. St. Maarten's Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) serves as the main gateway to the island.

Safety & environment

The nearest recompression chamber is approximately 10 kilometers away in St. Maarten, making prompt access available in case of a dive emergency. Divers are strongly advised to have comprehensive dive insurance, such as DAN, to cover potential medical evacuation and treatment costs. The Maze is considered a relatively safe dive with mild currents and shallow depths, suitable for Open Water certified divers. However, always dive within your training limits and follow your guide's instructions. Maintaining good buoyancy is crucial to avoid contact with the fragile coral formations and to navigate the swim-throughs safely. Never penetrate overhead environments without proper training.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Maze FAQ

Liveaboards diving Maze

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

Caribbean Explorer II

St. Maarten

18 guests

$224/day