ATLANTIC PEARL - Eleuthera & Harbour Island

The Atlantic Pearl isn’t your typical Caribbean wreck. We’re talking about a serious piece of steel, an 80-meter cargo carrier that ran aground off James Point in '79. What makes it special? It sits *right* on the surface, its hull often breaking above the waves, then dipping to nothing. It’s an unusual sight, a ghost ship half-submerged. Because it’s so shallow, it’s not about deep penetration, though you can poke around some of the more accessible deck structures. Instead, we love it for the light and the sheer amount of life that has taken hold. Schools of snapper dart through the shadows of the twisted metal. It's an easy drift along the hull, often with a gentle current, letting you take in the scale. You’ll find parrotfish munching algae from the encrusted hull and often a curious barracuda hanging out in the darker sections. It’s a photographer’s dream on a sunny day, with shafts of light piercing the water, illuminating the wreck. We'd suggest getting there earlier in the morning for the best light and fewer boat wakes. If you like your wrecks dramatic and easily accessible, this is a standout.

Location
Eleuthera & Harbour Island, Bahamas, Caribbean
Coordinates
25.349167, -76.349724
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Wreck History - ATLANTIC PEARL

Year Sunk
1979
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
grounding

The Atlantic Pearl was a Dutch-built carrier vessel constructed in 1963. In February 1979, while on a passage from Miami to Guadeloupe, the ship encountered treacherous conditions off the coast of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. On the 11th of that month, the Atlantic Pearl ran hard aground at James Point, where its hull was breached, sealing its fate.

Today, the remains of the Atlantic Pearl are a landmark for locals and an exciting exploration site for visitors. Lying at a depth of 0 meters, the wreck is partially submerged and constantly battered by the Atlantic surf, creating a dramatic and picturesque scene. Its accessibility makes it a fantastic spot for snorkelers and photographers, who can explore the rusting superstructure and the shallow marine life that has colonized the hull without needing full scuba gear. The wreck serves as a stark reminder of the power of the sea and a unique habitat in the shallows.

Best Time to Dive in Eleuthera & Harbour Island

The warmest water temperatures in Eleuthera & Harbour Island occur in January, averaging 26.0°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 26.0°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.0°C (air: 23.6°C)
  • February: 26.0°C (air: 23.6°C)
  • March: 26.0°C (air: 23.9°C)
  • April: 26.0°C (air: 24.5°C)
  • May: 26.0°C (air: 25.7°C)
  • June: 26.0°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • July: 26.0°C (air: 28.5°C)
  • August: 26.0°C (air: 28.8°C)
  • September: 26.0°C (air: 28.6°C)
  • October: 26.0°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • November: 26.0°C (air: 26.1°C)
  • December: 26.0°C (air: 24.4°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Eleuthera & Harbour Island

Marine Life in Eleuthera & Harbour Island

Home to 275 recorded species including 239 reef fish, 10 whales & dolphins, 6 sharks & rays, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 other, 3 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ATLANTIC PEARL

Based on average water temperature of 26.0°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°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 is the typical depth range for diving at the Atlantic Pearl dive site?
The Atlantic Pearl dive site is noted for a depth of 0m. As a wreck showing a portion of its hull or superstructure, it offers a unique shallow diving experience. You can explore more about diving in Eleuthera & Harbour Island.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to encounter at the Atlantic Pearl?
Divers at the Atlantic Pearl can expect to encounter the impressive structure of a carrier vessel, which ran aground off James Point Eleuthera Island. This substantial wreck, measuring 80.8m x 10.4m, offers a fascinating underwater feature to explore. For more information on various underwater features and marine life, visit our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level of the Atlantic Pearl dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Atlantic Pearl dive site is classified with an intermediate difficulty level. While not suitable for absolute beginners, divers with some experience will find it a rewarding exploration. We recommend ensuring you have the appropriate certifications for intermediate dives before planning your trip to Atlantic Pearl.
What is considered the best time of year to dive the Atlantic Pearl for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and marine encounters at the Atlantic Pearl dive site is not available in our current data. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in the region, please consult our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at the Atlantic Pearl dive site?
Given the Atlantic Pearl dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, it is recommended that divers possess certifications beyond entry-level, such as Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent. This ensures divers have the necessary skills and experience to safely navigate the wreck environment. Always dive within your certification limits and consider additional specialty equipment for wreck diving.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions experienced at the Atlantic Pearl dive site?
Specific information regarding the usual current and visibility conditions at the Atlantic Pearl dive site is not provided in our current database. Divers planning to visit this site should consult local dive operators in Eleuthera & Harbour Island for up-to-date conditions before diving.