Diamond Reef - Salt Island & Cooper Island

Ilha das Cabras feels like a secret garden, a calm little pocket just off the main Arraial bustle. We love it for its sheer chilled-out vibe and how much you can soak in without ever feeling rushed. At a maximum of seven metres, this isn't about crushing depth records; it’s about slow exploration. We're talking about poking around a truck chassis and a Neptune statue that have become home to a lively cast of characters. Keep an eye out for the Planehead Filefish, they’re often hanging around the crevices, and we’ve had some fantastic encounters with Key Worm Eels tucked into the sand. The Brazilian red anemones are particularly striking here, often hosting a Green Porcelain Crab if you look closely enough. Visibility averages around six metres, which, for such a shallow site, means you get really intimate views without feeling overwhelmed by distance. It’s perfect for new divers building confidence or photographers who want to spend ages framing a shot of a Spinyback Spider Crab.

Location
Salt Island & Cooper Island, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean
Coordinates
18.464200, -64.527100
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-18m

Marine Protected Area: Lee Bay

Best Time to Dive in Salt Island & Cooper Island

The warmest water temperatures in Salt Island & Cooper Island occur in January, averaging 27.1°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.1°C (air: 25.5°C)
  • February: 27.1°C (air: 25.1°C)
  • March: 27.1°C (air: 25.2°C)
  • April: 27.1°C (air: 25.7°C)
  • May: 27.1°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • June: 27.1°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • July: 27.1°C (air: 27.8°C)
  • August: 27.1°C (air: 28.1°C)
  • September: 27.1°C (air: 28.3°C)
  • October: 27.1°C (air: 28.0°C)
  • November: 27.1°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • December: 27.1°C (air: 26.3°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Salt Island & Cooper Island

Nearest Dive Centres to Diamond Reef

Marine Life in Salt Island & Cooper Island

Home to 504 recorded species including 410 reef fish, 39 hard corals, 13 sharks & rays, 9 other, 7 whales & dolphins, 6 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Diamond Reef

Based on average water temperature of 27.1°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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Diamond Reef?
The maximum depth for diving at Diamond Reef is 13 meters. This site features a small wall reef, approximately 200 yards long, making it suitable for exploring at various depths up to its maximum.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Diamond Reef?
At Diamond Reef, divers can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life, including angelfish, barracudas, and squid. You might also spot stingrays and eels exploring the reef. The underwater features consist of a small 'wall' reef, stretching approximately 200 yards, providing an interesting structure to explore.
Is Diamond Reef suitable for beginner divers, or is it considered more challenging?
Diamond Reef is an excellent choice for divers of all experience levels, including beginners. It is specifically described as ideal for all levels of divers and snorkelers. Furthermore, the site is accessible in nearly all weather conditions, making it a reliable option for your dive plans.
What are the best months or times of year to dive at Diamond Reef for optimal conditions?
While specific best months for optimal conditions at Diamond Reef are not detailed in our current data, the site is noted for being accessible in nearly all weather. This suggests it's a reliable dive destination throughout the year. Divers can generally expect an average visibility of 12 meters.
What level of scuba diving certification is required to dive at Diamond Reef?
Given that Diamond Reef is ideal for all levels of divers, an entry-level certification such as Open Water Diver should be sufficient. This allows certified divers to explore the maximum depth of 13 meters. Always confirm specific requirements with your local dive operator.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at Diamond Reef?
Specific details regarding typical current conditions at Diamond Reef are not provided in our data. However, the site is noted as being accessible in nearly all weather, which generally indicates manageable conditions. Divers can anticipate an average visibility of 12 meters, offering clear views of the reef.