Ginger Steps - Salt Island & Cooper Island

Larry’s Lair on Klein Bonaire gives you a real feel for the island’s quieter side. We love dropping in on the sandy patch first, letting the sun warm our backs as we float over the ripples. That flat stretch of sand, maybe 10 metres across, always seems to hold something unexpected – a Chain Moray peering out, or a Spinyhead Blenny doing its bobbing dance. Then the reef wall just drops away. It's not a dramatic sheer cliff, but a gently sloping wall, a deep blue fade into the distance. We often find ourselves drifting with a gentle current, spotting Boulder Brain Corals bigger than armchairs, and keeping an eye out for the Tiger Grouper that sometimes lurks in the overhangs. The maximum depth of 21 metres makes it a comfortable multi-level dive. We’d suggest going early; the light on the sand before the wall is just beautiful then, really highlighting the texture of the Shoalgrass. It's a peaceful dive, ideal for those who enjoy taking their time and searching for the smaller, less common residents like the Shark nose goby.

Location
Salt Island & Cooper Island, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean
Coordinates
18.384000, -64.480200
Type
reef

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 Ginger Steps

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 Ginger Steps

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 are the typical depths for diving at Ginger Steps?
The Ginger Steps dive site offers a versatile depth range, accommodating divers from 20 to 95 feet (3 to 30 meters). This makes it suitable for various experience levels, from snorkelers to advanced divers. You can explore different sections of the reef within these depths.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Ginger Steps?
At Ginger Steps, divers can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life, including schooling reef fish like Creole Wrasse, Black Durgeons, Bermuda Chubs, Sergeant Majors, and Chromis. Keep an eye out for Angelfish and Parrotfish, and you might even spot sharks at the drop-off. Lobsters are often found hiding within the unique giant mushroom-shaped coral structures.
How challenging is the Ginger Steps dive site for different experience levels?
The Ginger Steps dive site is remarkably versatile, welcoming snorkelers and divers of all experience levels. While it is officially rated as an intermediate dive, its step-like formation and varied depths allow for enjoyable exploration regardless of your certification. Beginners can stick to shallower areas, while more experienced divers can explore the deeper sections and drop-offs.
When is the best time of year to dive Ginger Steps for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive Ginger Steps for optimal conditions is not available in the provided data. However, you can generally find more information about seasonal diving conditions in the British Virgin Islands on our When to Dive page.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at Ginger Steps?
The Ginger Steps dive site is open to snorkelers and divers of all levels, making it accessible with a standard open water certification. While no specific advanced certifications are explicitly required, divers wishing to explore the deeper sections down to 30 meters would benefit from an Advanced Open Water certification. This allows for comfortable and safe exploration of the entire site.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions like at the Ginger Steps dive site?
Divers at Ginger Steps can typically expect excellent visibility, averaging around 19 meters. Information regarding the usual current conditions at this site is not provided in the available data. Always check with local dive operators for real-time conditions before your dive.