Dry Rocks East - Salt Island & Cooper Island

Jam is a good option when you want a relaxed dive with a bit of everything. We often start deep, around 20m, exploring a series of reef patches, but the real highlight is the small wreck in the shallows. It’s a pretty unassuming boat, maybe 10 metres long, completely covered in soft corals and sponges. You’ll find dwarf morays peeking from the nooks, and we’ve spotted blotchfin scorpionfish perfectly camouflaged on the hull. It’s an easy swim around the structure, a perfect spot to spend some time looking for smaller creatures before heading back. Visibility hovers around 15m, making it a comfortable dive for most.

Location
Salt Island & Cooper Island, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean
Coordinates
18.383400, -64.501400
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10-30m

Marine Protected Area: Ginger 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 Dry Rocks East

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 Dry Rocks East

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 Dry Rocks East?
The main dive site at Dry Rocks East typically ranges from 20 to 70 feet. While the maximum depth for the site is 14 meters (approximately 46 feet), the rock walls and boulders create beautiful views across this range for divers.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Dry Rocks East?
Divers at Dry Rocks East can expect to encounter a huge variety of schooling fish, including Sergeant Majors, Grunts, Goatfish, Snappers, Horse Eye Jacks, and Chromis. This mini pinnacle also offers opportunities to spot pelagics like sharks and eagle rays passing through. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Dry Rocks East, and what skill level is recommended?
Diving at Dry Rocks East is considered intermediate in difficulty, making it a great site for divers with some experience. However, its beautiful rock walls and boulders are enjoyable for divers of various skill levels. We recommend appropriate equipment and training for the conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive Dry Rocks East for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at Dry Rocks East. However, the British Virgin Islands generally offer excellent diving year-round. For general guidance on seasonal conditions, please consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for Dry Rocks East?
The specific certifications required or recommended for diving at Dry Rocks East are not detailed in the provided information. Given its intermediate difficulty, an Open Water Diver certification is typically a minimum, with Advanced Open Water or equivalent recommended for deeper sections. Always check with local dive operators in the Salt Island & Cooper Island area for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at the Dry Rocks East dive site?
Divers at Dry Rocks East can expect an average visibility of 15 meters, offering clear views of the mini pinnacle and its abundant marine life. While specific current conditions are not detailed, it's always wise to consult with local dive guides for real-time updates.