Dive Site: The Bridge

About The Bridge

The Bridge dive site in St. Maarten is a distinctive underwater environment formed from the remnants of the old Simpson Bay Bridge, which were deliberately sunk to create an artificial reef. This site is further enhanced by several scuttled boats, including the popular bar boat SV Nightingale, providing a diverse and expansive habitat for marine life. Located just west of Simpson Bay near the lagoon entrance, it offers a fascinating blend of man-made structures and burgeoning natural ecosystems. The topography consists of bridge debris, various wreck installations, seagrass beds, and sandy patches, all inviting exploration. Nature has reclaimed these submerged structures, creating an active and vibrant dive. Divers can expect to encounter a wide array of marine species, from various fish to eels, stingrays, and turtles. Reef sharks are also known to frequent the area, adding an exciting element to the dive. The site is shallow throughout the year, making it accessible and enjoyable in calm conditions. Diving at The Bridge typically involves exploring the various installations and the surrounding seagrass and sand. With light currents and a maximum depth of around 18 meters (60 feet), it's considered beginner-friendly, providing a safe and engaging experience. Access is usually by boat to managed moorings. Divers should be mindful of buoyancy when navigating around the structures and keep clear of any boat traffic near the lagoon entrance.

Dive site facts: The Bridge

Depth

8–18 m

Typical dive

16 m, ~48 min

Current

Mild to none

Visibility

12–30 m

Water temperature

25–30°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Beginner

Dive type

Wreck, Artificial reef

Region / port

Dutch St. Maarten

Coordinates

18.01, -63.028

Conditions & Currents

Most dive sites in St. Maarten, including The Bridge, feature little to no current, making for a very relaxed and enjoyable dive. This calm environment is ideal for observing marine life and exploring the intricate structures of the artificial reef without being concerned about drift. Visibility typically ranges from 12 to 30 meters, often reaching the higher end, which provides excellent viewing opportunities of the bridge remnants and associated wrecks. While the sea can occasionally be rough, especially in the wet season, the site generally remains quite calm. This predictable tranquility allows divers to comfortably spend ample time examining the unique topography and resident species, making it suitable for divers who prefer stable conditions and extended bottom times.

Marine life & sighting chances

Stingray

common

Sea Turtle

common

Moray Eel

common

Tropical Fish

common

Reef Shark

common

Octopus

common

Barracuda

occasional

Spiny Lobster

occasional

Spotted Eagle Ray

occasional

Nurse Shark

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Divers typically begin with a giant stride entry from the dive boat, descending directly onto the artificial reef structures. The dive often starts by exploring the old Simpson Bay Bridge remnants, which are covered in marine growth and provide numerous hiding places for small reef fish and crustaceans. Following the main bridge structure, you can weave among the deliberately sunk yacht wrecks, such as the SV Nightingale, observing how life has colonized these artificial habitats. The maximum depth of the dive is around 16 meters, allowing for extended bottom times. You can follow the contours of the structures, looking for octopus in pilings or stingrays on the sandy patches surrounding the wrecks. The turn point is determined by air consumption, after which a slow ascent is made along the reef, with the safety stop conducted hovering over the shallower parts of the structures, observing the final moments of marine activity before surfacing.

Underwater photography

The Bridge offers excellent opportunities for wide-angle photography due to its expansive artificial structures and abundant marine life. A fisheye or wide-angle lens will capture the scale of the bridge remnants and multiple wrecks, often with schools of fish hovering above. For macro subjects like octopus and smaller crustaceans, a dedicated macro lens will yield impressive detail, especially within the nooks and crannies of the pilings. Utilize strobes to bring out the vibrant colors of the corals and sponges encrusting the structures. Buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing the fragile ecosystems and to navigate smoothly around the underwater debris. Pay attention to the natural light filtering through the shallow waters, which can create dramatic effects. Patience is key for capturing elusive subjects like stingrays resting on the sand or a reef shark patrolling the area.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Tug Boat Annie

  Tug Boat Annie, located off the coast of St.

• Carib Cargo

  The Carib Cargo, also known as Carib Ghost or RoRo, is an inter-island trader that now serves as one of St.

• HMS Proselyte

  HMS Proselyte is a historic wreck site located just outside Philipsburg, within the protected Man of War Shoal Marine Park in St.

• Fish Bowl

  Fish Bowl is a highly-regarded dive site located within St.

Getting there & logistics

Accessing The Bridge dive site typically involves a short boat ride from various dive operators located in Simpson Bay or Philipsburg on the Dutch side of St. Maarten. The primary airport for arrival is Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). Most dive trips are scheduled as two-tank morning dives, often combining The Bridge with another nearby reef or wreck site. A marine park fee is usually included in dive package costs. While liveaboards are not common for St. Maarten itself, divers can incorporate St. Maarten diving into a broader Caribbean itinerary, sometimes flying to Saba after a few days. The island offers a mix of accommodations, from resorts to guesthouses, catering to various budgets. Consider that specific dive sites are chosen daily based on weather and sea conditions.

Safety & environment

Diving in St. Maarten is generally safe, but adherence to standard safety protocols is essential. Divers should always carry valid certification and dive insurance, such as DAN (Divers Alert Network), to cover potential emergencies. The nearest recompression chamber is approximately 10 kilometers away, so immediate evacuation for serious incidents is crucial. Site-specific hazards at The Bridge are minimal due to its relatively shallow depth and mild currents, but divers must maintain excellent buoyancy control to avoid contact with the artificial structures and marine life. Always dive within your training limits and comfort level. Pay attention to pre-dive briefings for any specific entry, exit, or route information. If you experience any health concerns, consult your dive operator; never dive while congested or feeling unwell. It is recommended to allow at least 24 hours between diving and flying.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

The Bridge FAQ

Liveaboards diving The Bridge

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

Caribbean Explorer II

St. Maarten

18 guests

$249/day