CAPTAIN ROKOS (ROCUS)

Best months: Jan–Dec

Protected Area

Virgin Gorda north

Why dive here

With 449+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda, blacktip reef sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales and eagle rays - CAPTAIN ROKOS (ROCUS) offers some of Virgin Gorda & Anegada's richest wreck diving. Water sits around 27°C.

Marine lifeBarracuda, Blacktip Reef Sharks, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales and Eagle Rays · 449+ species recorded

Water27°C · warmest January, February, March

CharacterWreck dive · max 5m

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

The Captain Rokos is a proper old-school wreck, no mucking about. She was a steamship, went down in 1931, and what’s left of her sits in just 5 metres of water, spread out across the seabed. It’s an easy dive, barely a swim really, but fascinating because you’re looking at history. You can trace the outline of her hull, pick out ribs and plating, and the prop shaft is still visible, which we think is pretty cool. Over the decades, the ocean has taken over. We love spotting the resident parrotfish nibbling algae off the metal, and nurse sharks sometimes snooze under the larger sections. Schools of snapper often hold tight to the superstructure. Because it's so shallow, you get fantastic light penetration, making it a great spot for photographers and really long bottom times. It’s a perfect chill-out dive, especially if you’ve had a few days of deeper, more demanding sites. Our favourite time to visit is mid-morning, before any strong thermals might stir up the sand a bit.

Typical CAPTAIN ROKOS (ROCUS) Dive Profile

Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

Safety Notes

Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

Today06:0218:3912h 37m daylightGolden hour 18:10

CAPTAIN ROKOS (ROCUS) Wreck History

Year Sunk

1931

Vessel Type

cargo ship

Cause

unknown

The waters between Virgin Gorda and Anegada in the British Virgin Islands are home to the historic remains of the Captain Rokos, a steamship that went down on February 20, 1931. Having rested on the seabed for nearly a century, this wreck is a true time capsule, offering a glimpse into the maritime world of the early 20th century. Its shallow grave at only 5 meters makes it an easily accessible site for divers and snorkelers of all levels.

After so many decades underwater, the Captain Rokos has been thoroughly reclaimed by nature. The ship's original structure is now heavily encrusted with a kaleidoscope of hard and soft corals, transforming the vessel into a spectacular artificial reef. Divers can explore the ship's scattered remains, including its boilers and steam engine components, while being surrounded by the rich marine life that thrives in the BVI's protected waters. It's a dive that beautifully merges history with natural wonder.