P.O.S. (Cockroach Island) - Virgin Gorda & Anegada

Simons Town, or Chimney as some call it, is a decent enough dive if you're looking for something different in Bazaruto. It’s a shallow spot, topping out around 17 meters, and the main draw is the rock formations. You’ll find these large chimneys, riddled with cracks and crevices, where all sorts of smaller critters like hatchet fish and boxer snipe eels like to hang out. We've seen diamondback puffers tucked into the overhangs, and if you’re lucky, a green-eye spurdog might eye you from a dark corner. Visibility averages around 11 meters, so you'll want a good day to really appreciate the contours of the reef. It's a nice easy dive, good for taking your time and poking around.

Location
Virgin Gorda & Anegada, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean
Coordinates
18.493800, -64.464800
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Cockroach Island

Best Time to Dive in Virgin Gorda & Anegada

The warmest water temperatures in Virgin Gorda & Anegada occur in January, averaging 26.8°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 26.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.8°C (air: 25.6°C)
  • February: 26.8°C (air: 25.3°C)
  • March: 26.8°C (air: 25.3°C)
  • April: 26.8°C (air: 25.8°C)
  • May: 26.8°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • June: 26.8°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • July: 26.8°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • August: 26.8°C (air: 28.2°C)
  • September: 26.8°C (air: 28.4°C)
  • October: 26.8°C (air: 28.1°C)
  • November: 26.8°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • December: 26.8°C (air: 26.4°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Virgin Gorda & Anegada

Nearest Dive Centres to P.O.S. (Cockroach Island)

Marine Life in Virgin Gorda & Anegada

Home to 462 recorded species including 371 reef fish, 39 hard corals, 11 sharks & rays, 9 other, 6 seagrass & algae, 6 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for P.O.S. (Cockroach Island)

Based on average water temperature of 26.8°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 P.O.S. (Cockroach Island)?
The dive site at P.O.S. (Cockroach Island) features a steep coral and sponge covered pinnacle that rises from 24m/80 feet to 5m/15 feet. The maximum depth for diving at this site is 23m. This offers a good range for exploring the various features of the reef.
What marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at P.O.S. (Cockroach Island)?
Divers at P.O.S. (Cockroach Island) can explore a steep coral and sponge covered pinnacle with interesting ledges and overhangs. The site boasts an impressive array of marine life, including Barracuda and Jacks often found at the peak. Schools of Snappers, Grunts, and Goatfish can be seen under the ledges at the base, and divers should look for Sharks, Rays, and Turtles passing by.
What is the difficulty level for diving at P.O.S. (Cockroach Island), and is it suitable for beginners?
The difficulty level for diving at P.O.S. (Cockroach Island) is rated as intermediate. Due to this rating and the potential for currents, it may not be suitable for beginner divers. Divers should have appropriate experience to safely navigate the conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive at P.O.S. (Cockroach Island) for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions or visibility at P.O.S. (Cockroach Island). However, the average visibility is noted as 14m. For general information on dive seasons in the region, you can consult our When to Dive guide.
What dive certifications are recommended or required to dive at P.O.S. (Cockroach Island)?
The provided data does not specify recommended or required dive certifications for P.O.S. (Cockroach Island). Given its intermediate difficulty and potential for currents, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience with similar conditions would generally be advisable. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements before planning your dive.
What are the typical current and sea conditions like at P.O.S. (Cockroach Island) for diving?
Divers should be aware that P.O.S. (Cockroach Island) can be prone to current. While specific sea conditions beyond this are not detailed, the potential for currents indicates that divers should be prepared for varying water movement. The average visibility at the site is 14m, offering clear views of the impressive marine life and underwater features.