AMERSFOORT - Barbuda

The *Amersfoort* isn't about depth; it's about story. Sunk back in 1927, this old steamship lies spread across the seafloor in just three metres of water, making it a dream for snorkelers and divers who want to take their time. We love drifting over the scattered remains of its hull, imagining the ship's final moments. You’ll see the outlines of bulkheads, twisted metal plates, and where the superstructure once stood, all now encrusted with sponges and soft corals. It’s not about big pelagics here, but rather the smaller, more intricate life – parrotfish grazing on algae, tiny blennies peering from crevices, and juvenile snapper darting through the shadows. The shallow depth means fantastic light penetration, especially around midday, painting the wreck in blues and greens. It’s our favourite spot in Barbuda for a truly relaxed exploration, perfect for photographers or anyone who just wants to soak up a piece of history without worrying about bottom time. Go early to avoid any afternoon chop.

Location
Barbuda, Antigua & Barbuda, Caribbean
Coordinates
17.625284, -61.731335
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
3m

Wreck History - AMERSFOORT

Year Sunk
1927
Vessel Type
unknown
Cause
storm

The wreck of the Amersfoort is one of Barbuda's most accessible and intriguing historical sites. This vessel met its end on September 20, 1927, likely falling victim to a powerful hurricane that swept through the Leeward Islands that year. Today, it lies in the crystal-clear shallows at a depth of just 3 meters. Because it is so shallow, parts of the hull and superstructure are often visible from the surface, breaking the waves and serving as a constant reminder of the sea's power. Its accessibility makes the Amersfoort an ideal location for snorkelers and novice divers, offering a safe and fascinating introduction to wreck exploration.

Marine Protected Area: Two Foot Bay Sanctuary

Best Time to Dive in Barbuda

The warmest water temperatures in Barbuda occur in January, averaging 27.0°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.0°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.0°C (air: 25.4°C)
  • February: 27.0°C (air: 25.1°C)
  • March: 27.0°C (air: 25.4°C)
  • April: 27.0°C (air: 26.0°C)
  • May: 27.0°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • June: 27.0°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • July: 27.0°C (air: 28.0°C)
  • August: 27.0°C (air: 28.2°C)
  • September: 27.0°C (air: 28.3°C)
  • October: 27.0°C (air: 27.8°C)
  • November: 27.0°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • December: 27.0°C (air: 26.1°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Barbuda

Marine Life in Barbuda

Home to 157 recorded species including 142 reef fish, 5 other, 3 whales & dolphins, 2 sea snails & nudibranchs, 1 octopus & squid, 1 sharks & rays.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for AMERSFOORT

Based on average water temperature of 27.0°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 27°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories