Condo - Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve

Haapiti is one of those Bora Bora lagoon dives we always make time for, especially if we’re looking for something a bit different from the usual channel drifts. The name of the game here is exploring the coral plateau, which gives way to three distinct, large holes. Drop into these and you're surrounded by schools of snapper, all jostling for position. Move out of the holes and the reef opens up to a maze of smaller excavations and mini-caves. We often spot bluespotted stingrays tucked into the sand patches here, and the blacktip sharks cruise by with a relaxed indifference we appreciate. The average visibility is good, around 23m, but on a calm day, it really stretches out. We'd suggest aiming for a morning dive before the boat traffic picks up. The light filters down beautifully into those holes then, creating a really serene atmosphere. This isn't a high-adrenaline site; it’s more about a relaxed exploration, perfect for photographers or divers who appreciate the finer details of a healthy reef.

Location
Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve, Dominica, Caribbean
Coordinates
15.214100, -61.376300
Type
drift

Marine Protected Area: Soufriere/Scott's Head

Best Time to Dive in Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve

The warmest water temperatures in Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve occur in January, averaging 27.2°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.2°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.2°C (air: 24.7°C)
  • February: 27.2°C (air: 24.5°C)
  • March: 27.2°C (air: 24.7°C)
  • April: 27.2°C (air: 25.5°C)
  • May: 27.2°C (air: 26.6°C)
  • June: 27.2°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • July: 27.2°C (air: 26.6°C)
  • August: 27.2°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • September: 27.2°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • October: 27.2°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • November: 27.2°C (air: 26.1°C)
  • December: 27.2°C (air: 25.2°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve

Nearest Dive Centres to Condo

Marine Life in Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve

Home to 271 recorded species including 215 reef fish, 24 hard corals, 14 whales & dolphins, 3 other, 3 sea urchins, 3 sharks & rays.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Condo

Based on average water temperature of 27.2°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 Condo dive site?
The Condo dive site offers an exciting dive experience with a maximum depth of 22m. Divers can explore the unique features of this site, including a large rock formation and sandy areas, within this depth range.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at the Condo dive site?
At the Condo dive site, divers can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life, including lobsters, crabs, garden eels, sting rays, and schools of grunts and snappers. The site also features fascinating underwater topography, such as a large rock with many cracks and crevices, a sandy area full of garden eels, and exciting swim-throughs. It offers a great combination of life in the sand and around the rock pinnacle. For more on marine species, visit our Wildlife Database.
How challenging is the Condo dive site, and what skill level is recommended for divers?
The Condo dive site is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive. This site is a drift dive, which typically requires good buoyancy control and comfort with currents, making it suitable for divers with some experience.
When is the best time of year to dive the Condo dive site for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive the Condo dive site for optimal conditions and marine encounters is not available in the provided data. For general information on dive seasons, you can visit our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at the Condo dive site?
The provided data does not specify any particular scuba diving certifications required to dive at the Condo dive site. Generally, an Open Water Diver certification is a prerequisite for most guided dives, but it's always best to confirm with a local dive operator.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Condo dive site?
The Condo dive site is characterized as a drift dive, indicating that divers can expect to encounter currents. Visibility at this site is typically excellent, averaging around 22m, offering clear views of the diverse marine life and unique rock formations.