St Kitts and Nevis is an island country that I only had the opportunity to visit twice during my time working in the Caribbean. Lucky for its location, St Kitts and Nevis is north of the Lesser Antilles, surrounded by the Caribbean Sea to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east.
The fact that the islands are volcanic formations has created a rich underwater ecosystem with steep underwater slopes and coral reefs. In addition, the meeting of warm Caribbean waters and cool Atlantic currents has enabled St. Kitts and Nevis to host many marine creatures.
From shallow reefs to deep walls, the diving conditions are suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike. In addition, a unique geography combined with minimal pollution and strict conservation efforts will definitely make you happy diving in St. Kitts and Nevis.
A World Beneath the Waves
Diving in St. Kitts and Nevis offers the opportunity to encounter a variety of marine life. The coral reefs surrounding the islands are home to many species of hard and soft corals, sea sponges and a variety of tropical fish. Among the most common fish are parrotfish, butterfly fish, angelfish and sea bass. Schools of jackfish and tarpon gracefully glide around the reefs, while sometimes a curious barracuda may glance at you.
One of the most exciting things about diving here is the chance to encounter larger sea creatures. Sea turtles, especially hawksbill and green turtles, can often be seen feeding in the grass or swimming calmly on the reefs. Eagle rays and southern stingrays are also frequently encountered.
Several species of sharks are also present in St. Kitts and Nevis. Nurse sharks and the occasional reef shark are generally not a danger to divers. At certain times of the year, lucky divers may encounter whale sharks and dolphins for an unforgettable experience.
In addition to living natural reefs, St. Kitts and Nevis also has several shipwrecks. These wrecks turn into artificial reefs, attracting many sea creatures. The River Taw is one of the most popular wreck dives off the coast of St. Kitts. This sunken freighter now offers a fascinating underwater landscape of fish and coral. Other notable wrecks include the MV Talata and Coralita, each offering divers a different underwater adventure.
For more adventurous divers, the underwater caves and caverns around the islands allow for closer exploration of marine life. These intricate cave systems are home to unique species such as lobsters, crabs and moray eels.
Visibility and Water Temperature
One of the reasons why St. Kitts and Nevis is so attractive to divers is that it offers consistently excellent diving conditions throughout the year. The water is generally warm all year round, ranging from 25°C (78°F) in winter to 29°C (84°F) in summer. These temperatures ensure comfortable diving all year round.
Visibility is also a major advantage of this area, with visibility usually ranging from 15 to 30 meters, giving you a clear view of the beauty of the reefs, marine life and wrecks.
Diving Seasons: When to Go?
While St. Kitts and Nevis offers great diving opportunities throughout the year, some periods are more ideal for diving.
December-April: This is known as the dry season in St. Kitts and Nevis. The seas are calm and visibility is excellent. The cooler water temperatures attract larger pelagic species such as whale sharks and migrating dolphins. It is also a great time for sea turtles, as many turtles come to lay eggs on the islands’ beaches.
May-November: This is the rainy season and visibility can be slightly reduced during this period, but diving conditions are still very good. The waters are warmer and tropical fish, reef sharks and rays are more abundant. August to October is the peak of the hurricane season, although dives can be organized when weather conditions permit.
Diving in St. Kitts and Nevis offers something for every diver; from beginner-friendly reefs to exciting wrecks and caves. The islands’ rich marine biodiversity, warm waters and excellent visibility make it an ideal destination for beginners and experienced divers alike. Whether you’re exploring a sunken ship, swimming with sea turtles or fascinated by schools of fish, the underwater world of St. Kitts and Nevis will fascinate you.
