Missing Link - Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve

Poor Knights Island itself might not be the flashiest site in the wider reserve, but we still really enjoy a dive here. It’s a solid entry point, particularly if you’re getting your sea legs or if the weather isn’t playing ball for the more exposed spots. The max depth of 19m keeps things comfortable, and we often find good visibility, around 15m, which lets you really take in the kelp forests swaying in the gentle surge. You'll spend most of your time poking around the golden fronds of kelp, looking for the smaller stuff. We’ve spotted plenty of common triplefins zipping between the stalks, and the drummers are always out in force. Keep an eye out for a cowfish, their odd shape always brings a smile. It's a calmer dive, a good one for photographers focusing on macro, or just to soak in that distinctive New Zealand underwater feel. We often suggest it as a second or third dive, a nice contrast to the drama of some of the deeper caverns elsewhere.

Location
Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve, Dominica, Caribbean
Coordinates
15.215500, -61.374000
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
10-30m

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 Missing Link

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 Missing Link

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 maximum depth for diving at the Missing Link dive site?
The maximum depth for diving at the Missing Link dive site is 20 meters. This site is known for its unique combination of walls and a flat shelf that extends into the crater, offering diverse diving experiences.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Missing Link?
At the Missing Link dive site, divers can explore a fascinating combination of walls and a flat shelf that extends into the crater. This unique topography supports a wide range of marine life, from macro creatures to pelagic species, making it possible to spot both frogfish and seahorses on the same dive.
How challenging is the Missing Link dive site for divers?
The Missing Link dive site is rated as intermediate in difficulty. This is primarily due to the potential for strong currents, which experienced divers can utilize for an exciting drift dive along the site's unique walls and shelf.
What is the best time of year to dive at Missing Link in Roatan?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive at the Missing Link dive site is not provided in the current data. Please note that Missing Link is located in the Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve, Dominica, not Roatan. For general guidance on dive seasons, you can visit our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at Missing Link?
Specific scuba diving certifications recommended or required for the Missing Link dive site are not detailed in the provided data. However, given its intermediate difficulty and potential for strong currents, divers should ideally be comfortable with drift diving techniques and have experience beyond entry-level certifications. Always consult with a local dive operator for precise requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Missing Link dive site?
The Missing Link dive site can experience strong currents, which divers often utilize for an exhilarating drift dive. Visibility at the site is typically excellent, with an average of 23 meters, allowing for clear views of its diverse marine life and unique underwater topography.