Point Cistern, Carriacou - Carriacou

Shark Reef, sitting off Grenada’s southwest coast, often delivers exactly what the name promises: sharks. We've often found small nurse sharks tucked into the ledges here, sometimes just a tail fin visible, other times lazily cruising by. It’s a shallow stretch of reef, around 10 to 18 metres, but don't let the depth fool you; there’s a lot to peek at. We always keep an eye out for the Masked Goby, tiny and often overlooked, and the oddly named Suspicious Lizardfish. The reef itself is a maze of nooks and crannies, perfect for spotting lobsters waving antennae from dark corners or king crabs scuttling away. Visibility averages around 17 metres, generally quite good, but the Atlantic influence can bring strong currents – we’re talking four knots sometimes. Dive operators are usually good about timing dives to avoid the strongest pushes, but be ready for a drift. It’s a lively spot, good for divers who enjoy taking their time and searching out the smaller stuff, with the added bonus of those nurse sharks.

Location
Carriacou, Grenada, Caribbean
Coordinates
12.479700, -61.496700
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-20m

Marine Protected Area: Sandy Island-Oyster Bay

Best Time to Dive in Carriacou

The warmest water temperatures in Carriacou occur in January, averaging 27.6°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.6°C (air: 25.8°C)
  • February: 27.6°C (air: 25.6°C)
  • March: 27.6°C (air: 25.7°C)
  • April: 27.6°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • May: 27.6°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • June: 27.6°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • July: 27.6°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • August: 27.6°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • September: 27.6°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • October: 27.6°C (air: 27.8°C)
  • November: 27.6°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • December: 27.6°C (air: 26.5°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Carriacou

Nearest Dive Centres to Point Cistern, Carriacou

Marine Life in Carriacou

Home to 296 recorded species including 258 reef fish, 13 hard corals, 11 whales & dolphins, 3 seagrass & algae, 2 jellyfish, 2 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Point Cistern, Carriacou

Based on average water temperature of 27.6°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°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 Point Cistern, Carriacou?
The maximum depth for diving at Point Cistern, Carriacou is 16 meters. This relatively shallow dive offers excellent opportunities for exploring marine life closer to the surface.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Point Cistern, Carriacou?
Divers at Point Cistern can expect to explore a vibrant reef environment. The site is particularly renowned for its macro life, including slugs, shrimps, and various juveniles, making it a paradise for photographers. Additionally, you might encounter stingrays, octopus, and lobsters hiding among the rocks.
How difficult is the Point Cistern dive site in Carriacou, and is it suitable for beginners?
The Point Cistern dive site is rated as intermediate in difficulty. While it is a relatively shallow dive, its intermediate rating suggests it might not be ideal for absolute beginners without proper guidance or experience. Divers should have appropriate equipment and certification for intermediate dives.
What is the best time of year to dive at Point Cistern, Carriacou for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Point Cistern, Carriacou for optimal conditions. For general information on diving seasons in the region, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Point Cistern, Carriacou?
The provided information does not explicitly state the specific scuba diving certifications required for Point Cistern, Carriacou. However, given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers should possess at least an Open Water Diver certification, with advanced training recommended for comfort and safety. Always check with local dive operators in Carriacou for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Point Cistern, Carriacou?
At Point Cistern, Carriacou, divers can typically expect excellent visibility, averaging around 18 meters. The provided data does not specify the typical current conditions for this dive site.