ISLAND SUN - Eleuthera & Harbour Island

The Island Sun wreck isn't about deep exploration or pristine corals. It's about history, plain and simple, and what the sea does to a steel ship over decades. This old carrier, originally from Sweden, ran aground back in '68 and was abandoned, left for the ocean to reclaim. We love how much of the superstructure is still there, slowly collapsing in on itself. You can swim through cargo holds, or what's left of them, and imagine the freight she once carried between Belem and Savannah. Visibility here can be a bit variable, especially if there's been some swell, but on a calm day, it’s a real treat. We’ve seen big schools of jacks swirling around the main deck, and parrotfish picking algae off the rusting bulkheads. Look closely in the shadowed areas, and you'll often find nurse sharks resting, blending in with the corroded metal. It’s a site that feels alive, even though it’s a wreck. We’d suggest going at slack tide for the easiest exploration; strong currents can make navigating the interior a bit of a workout. Dive guides often know the best times.

Location
Eleuthera & Harbour Island, Bahamas, Caribbean
Coordinates
24.460000, -75.535000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

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 ISLAND SUN

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 are the typical depths for diving at the 'ISLAND SUN' dive sites in the Solomon Islands?
The 'ISLAND SUN' dive site is located in Eleuthera & Harbour Island, Bahamas, not the Solomon Islands. This fascinating wreck, a carrier vessel sunk in 1968, is found at a depth of 0m, meaning it is at the surface. This makes it accessible for various water activities and exploration.
What marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at the 'ISLAND SUN' dive sites?
At the ISLAND SUN dive site, divers can expect to explore the remains of a carrier vessel, which was sunk on October 3, 1968. This wreck, measuring 66.3m x 10m, is classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided information, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging are the dives at 'ISLAND SUN' and what level of diving experience is recommended?
Dives at the ISLAND SUN wreck are classified as intermediate difficulty. This suggests that divers should have some prior experience beyond basic open water certification to comfortably navigate the site. Given its 0m depth, the challenge might stem from factors like surface conditions or the nature of exploring a partially exposed wreck.
What is the best time of year to dive 'ISLAND SUN' for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data for the ISLAND SUN dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on diving in the Bahamas, you might consult our When to Dive section for typical seasonal patterns.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving at 'ISLAND SUN' dive sites?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed, the ISLAND SUN dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. This typically implies that divers should hold at least an Open Water Diver certification and possess some experience beyond entry-level dives. For exploring wrecks, even at shallow depths, additional training like a Wreck Diver specialty course could enhance your experience and safety.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at 'ISLAND SUN' dive sites?
The provided data for the ISLAND SUN dive site does not include information on typical current conditions or visibility. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators in Eleuthera & Harbour Island for the most up-to-date site conditions.