SANTO TOME - Aruba Leeward Coast

The *Santo Tome* isn't Aruba's deepest wreck, sitting in just 10 metres of water, but it’s an accessible dive with a surprisingly dramatic past. This 111-metre motor vessel met its end in 1980, after a fire raged for ten days while she was discharging cargo. What you get today is a substantial wreck, broken up in places but still offering plenty to explore for divers who enjoy poking around nooks and crannies. We often see barracuda patrolling the larger sections and schools of snapper darting in and out of the holds. It’s a good spot for newer wreck divers or those looking for a longer bottom time without deep decompression worries.

Location
Aruba Leeward Coast, Aruba, Caribbean
Coordinates
11.664166, -70.225830
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Best Time to Dive in Aruba Leeward Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Aruba Leeward Coast occur in January, averaging 27.7°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.7°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • February: 27.7°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • March: 27.7°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • April: 27.7°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • May: 27.7°C (air: 28.0°C)
  • June: 27.7°C (air: 28.4°C)
  • July: 27.7°C (air: 28.4°C)
  • August: 27.7°C (air: 28.9°C)
  • September: 27.7°C (air: 29.5°C)
  • October: 27.7°C (air: 29.0°C)
  • November: 27.7°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • December: 27.7°C (air: 27.4°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Aruba Leeward Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to SANTO TOME

Marine Life in Aruba Leeward Coast

Home to 92 recorded species including 55 reef fish, 7 sea snails & nudibranchs, 7 hard corals, 6 crabs & lobsters, 4 other, 4 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for SANTO TOME

Based on average water temperature of 27.7°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths at dive sites around Santo Tome?
At the Santo Tome dive site, divers can expect typical depths of 10 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for many skill levels. The relatively shallow depth allows for longer bottom times and ample light penetration.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see when diving in Santo Tome?
When diving at Santo Tome, divers will explore the fascinating underwater topography of a large motor vessel wreck. This 111.6m x 15.6m vessel, sunk in 1980, provides an intriguing structure for exploration. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided data, wrecks typically become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging are the dive sites in Santo Tome for different skill levels?
The Santo Tome dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it's suitable for divers with some experience beyond entry-level certification. Its 10-meter depth makes it manageable, but the wreck environment may present unique challenges requiring good buoyancy control.
When is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Santo Tome for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or marine encounters at Santo Tome. For general information on when to dive in the region, you might consult our When to Dive resource. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date seasonal insights.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving in Santo Tome?
Given that the Santo Tome dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, a minimum of an Open Water Diver certification is typically required. Divers with an Advanced Open Water certification or a Wreck Diver specialty may find the experience more rewarding, especially for exploring the 111.6m long vessel safely.
What are the typical water temperatures, visibility, and current conditions like for diving in Santo Tome?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical water temperatures, visibility, or current conditions for diving at Santo Tome. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators in Aruba for the most up-to-date conditions. These factors can vary seasonally and impact the diving experience.