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Diving in Saint Barthélemy

Explore diving in Saint Barthélemy

Diving in the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean around St. Barts offers an unparalleled experience for underwater enthusiasts. Its vibrant coral reefs are a true explosion of color, thanks to the shallow depth of the channel between St. Barts and St. Martin (less than 30 meters) and the sandy seabed that beautifully reflects sunlight.

Marine life is abundant, with a dazzling array of small, colourful reef fish thriving among the corals. Beyond these stunning reefs, St. Barts is also home to a remarkable wreck dive: the Kaïali. Resting at a depth of 30 meters, this wreck features two entry points, making it a thrilling site for experienced divers.

For those seeking unique underwater adventures, the island’s underwater walls are dotted with large caverns that add a fascinating dimension to the dive experience. With 22 diverse dive sites located just minutes away, St. Barts is a diver’s paradise where luxury and nature blend seamlessly.

When to dive in Saint Barthélemy

The best time to dive in Saint-Barthélemy is generally from November to May, during the Caribbean dry season. Here are some key points to consider:

Ideal Conditions

  • Underwater Visibility: Excellent during this period, often between 20 and 30 meters.
  • Water Temperature: It ranges from 79°F to 84°F (26°C to 29°C), offering optimal diving comfort.
  • Weather: Sunny days with minimal rain ensure calm and stable conditions.


Other Considerations

  • Peak Tourist Season: From December to March, the island is highly popular, so it’s recommended to book your dives in advance.
  • Marine Life: You’ll have better chances of spotting certain migratory species, such as humpback whales, especially between February and April.

For a quieter experience, consider visiting in May or November, when the island is slightly less crowded but still offers perfect diving conditions.

Book your diving in Saint Barthélemy

More Information

How to Get to St. Barthélemy?

St. Barthélemy, a true gem of the Caribbean, is accessible by plane or boat. Here are the main options to reach this paradise:

By Air

  1. Via St. Martin (Princess Juliana Airport - SXM)
    • This is the most common route. From St. Martin, short flights (10 minutes) connect to St. Barth Airport (SBH).
    • Local airlines like Winair or St-Barth Commuter offer multiple daily departures.
    • Small aircraft are used, providing a breathtaking arrival over the island.
  2. Via San Juan (Puerto Rico - SJU)
    • Regional flights connect San Juan to St. Barth with carriers like Tradewind Aviation.
    • A great option for travelers coming from the U.S.
  3. From Nearby Islands
    • Guadeloupe and Antigua also offer connections to St. Barth.

By Boat

  1. From St. Martin (Marigot or Oyster Pond)
    • Ferries such as Voyager or Great Bay Express make the trip in 45 minutes to 1 hour.
    • A more affordable option, though the waters can be choppy at times.
  2. By Yacht or Private Boat
    • For those seeking luxury, arriving directly at Gustavia's sparkling harbor is an unforgettable experience.

Practical Tips

  • Getting Around the Island: Renting a car is recommended to explore its beaches and attractions.
  • Entry Requirements: As a French overseas territory, EU citizens do not need a visa. U.S. citizens can enter with a valid passport for short tourist stays.

St. Barthélemy takes effort to reach, but every step is rewarded with the island’s unparalleled beauty and warm hospitality.

Time Zone
UTC-04:00
Phone
+590
Currency
EUR
Voltage
230 V
Pressure
Bar (bar)
Plug
C, E
Languages
French
1st Stage
DIN
International airports
Saint Barthelemy Airport (SBH)
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