Dip n Scrub - Salt Island & Cooper Island

We love Alcatrazes for its sheer feeling of discovery. After decades of closures, diving here still feels like exploring somewhere truly new. Drop into the sheltered cove off Ilha do Farol and the first thing you notice is the colour of the water – that almost unbelievable blue-green that only comes from deep, clean ocean currents. It’s relatively shallow, maxing out at 14 metres, which means you get excellent light penetration, illuminating the rocky slopes. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff here. We’ve seen plenty of Delalande blennies darting into crevices, and the goldspot gobies are always a treat. Those large schools of black margate are a common sight, and if you’re patient, you might spot an eyed flounder camouflaged against the sand. Visibility averages around 11 metres, which is decent for the region. It’s a calm, easy dive, perfect for photographers or anyone who just wants to soak in the atmosphere of a truly protected space.

Location
Salt Island & Cooper Island, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean
Coordinates
18.465700, -64.518900

Marine Protected Area: Scrub Island

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 Dip n Scrub

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 Dip n Scrub

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 the Dip n Scrub dive site?
The wall at Dip n Scrub runs eastward, dropping from approximately 25 ft (7.6m) to 60 ft (18.3m). The maximum recommended diving depth for this site is 16m. Divers can explore this vibrant reef within this range.
What kind of marine life and coral formations can divers expect to see at Dip n Scrub?
Divers at Dip n Scrub can expect to encounter impressive marine life and coral formations. The site features large mushroom-shaped pillar coral formations and plenty of soft corals. Keep an eye out for schools of Creole Wrasse, Blue Chromis, and Sergeant Majors, along with various parrotfish species like Queen, Princess, Striped, Stoplight, and Redband, plus the occasional large lobster and nurse shark. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Dip n Scrub dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Dip n Scrub dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it offers a rewarding experience, it may not be ideal for absolute beginner divers due to its characteristics. Divers should have appropriate certification and experience for intermediate-level dives.
What is the best time of year to dive at Dip n Scrub, considering weather and sea conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Dip n Scrub regarding weather and sea conditions. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in the region, please consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required or recommended for diving at Dip n Scrub?
Given that Dip n Scrub is an intermediate-difficulty dive site, divers are typically recommended to have at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. This ensures divers are comfortable and competent in navigating the site's conditions and depths.
What are the usual current and water conditions like at the Dip n Scrub dive site?
The average visibility at the Dip n Scrub dive site is 14m, offering clear views of the vibrant reef. However, the provided data does not include specific information about typical current strength or water temperature. Divers should always check local conditions with their dive operator before entering the water.