Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas - Sosua & Puerto Plata

Grape Escape is one of those Roatán sites we never skip, especially if we’re looking for a relaxed, critter-focused drift. It’s not a dramatic, upright wreck, so ditch any expectations of exploring cabins. Instead, think of it as a historical scattering of a small cargo ship, spread over a sandy channel between coral walls. The pieces are mostly ribs and plating, now encrusted and serving as miniature habitats. We particularly love cruising that sandy path, eyes peeled for the resident Pygmy Morays and countless blennies – Rosy, Four-fin, Dusky, Saddled – each peeking out from tiny holes in the debris or the surrounding coral. The Banded Jawfish are always a treat to watch, often suspended just above their burrows, eyeing us with suspicion. If you take it slow, you’ll spot Needlefish gliding just above the sand and often a Great Barracuda or two patrolling the deeper edges of the coral. Visibility is usually excellent here, making it perfect for photographers who want to get up close with the smaller residents. It’s a gentle drift, well-suited for divers who enjoy a slower pace and appreciate the subtle beauty of a wreck reclaimed by the reef.

Location
Sosua & Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, Caribbean
Coordinates
19.335000, -69.568400
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Bancos de La Plata y La Navidad

Nearby Dive Sites in Sosua & Puerto Plata

Nearest Dive Centres to Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas

Marine Life in Sosua & Puerto Plata

Home to 238 recorded species including 212 reef fish, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 4 hard corals, 3 other, 3 seagrass & algae, 3 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas?
The dive site Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas typically begins at 2 meters deep and slowly goes down to 6 meters. While it's a relatively shallow site, the maximum depth reached here is 12 meters. This makes it suitable for various diving activities, from introductory experiences to more relaxed dives for certified divers.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas?
At Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas, divers can expect to encounter abundant fan coral and brain coral, creating a vibrant underwater landscape. The site is also home to schools of snappers, surgeonfishes, and parrot fish. There are also opportunities to spot fascinating creatures like octopus, sea cicada, lobster, and giant crabs, making for a diverse marine life experience.
Is Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas a good dive site for beginner divers or those doing their first dives?
Yes, Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas is an excellent choice for beginner divers and those undertaking their first dives. Its shallow depths, starting at 2 meters and gently descending to 6 meters, make it a perfect and safe environment. It is also highly recommended for snorkeling in the Sosua & Puerto Plata area.
When is the best time of year to dive Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas for the calmest conditions?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas for the calmest conditions. For general information on optimal diving seasons in the region, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What level of scuba diving certification is needed to dive at Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas?
Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas is described as a perfect place for first-time dives, meaning it's suitable for introductory experiences under direct supervision, which do not require prior certification. For certified divers, its shallow depth range makes it very accessible. While the site is classified as intermediate difficulty, likely due to its wreck type, it remains suitable for those with entry-level certifications like Open Water Diver.
Are there strong currents or challenging water conditions typically found at Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas?
The provided data for Cinco Metros, Las Ballenas does not contain specific information regarding strong currents or challenging water conditions. However, its designation as a "perfect place for snorkeling and first-time dives" suggests generally calm and manageable conditions. The average visibility at the site is 13 meters.