Red Bouy - Grenada - Southwest Coast

Steps isn’t about huge pelagics or dramatic drop-offs, though we have seen the occasional white-tip cruising past. For us, this site shines as an absolute masterclass in macro life and coral detail. We love drifting along, following the subtle terraces that give the site its name, eyes peeled for the little guys. Our favourite trick here is to find a patch of branching coral and just hover. You’ll spot zebra eviotas peeking out, or maybe a tiny high-hat triplefin doing its nervous dance. The light plays beautifully on the hard corals, creating these shifting patterns of shadow and illumination that are just hypnotising. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially for those who appreciate the smaller stuff. We’d suggest going in the morning; the light is softer and the current tends to be gentler, making it easier to really slow down and appreciate the intricate detail. Keep an eye out for eroded cowries tucked away, their shells almost blending into the reef.

Location
Southwest Coast, Grenada, Caribbean
Coordinates
12.049400, -61.762700
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Grand Anse

Best Time to Dive in Southwest Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Southwest Coast occur in January, averaging 27.4°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.4°C (air: 25.9°C)
  • February: 27.4°C (air: 26.0°C)
  • March: 27.4°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • April: 27.4°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • May: 27.4°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • June: 27.4°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • July: 27.4°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • August: 27.4°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • September: 27.4°C (air: 28.3°C)
  • October: 27.4°C (air: 28.0°C)
  • November: 27.4°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • December: 27.4°C (air: 26.5°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Southwest Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to Red Bouy - Grenada

Marine Life in Southwest Coast

Home to 267 recorded species including 231 reef fish, 13 hard corals, 10 whales & dolphins, 3 seagrass & algae, 2 jellyfish, 2 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Red Bouy - Grenada

Based on average water temperature of 27.4°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 Red Bouy dive site in Grenada?
The typical depth range for diving at Red Bouy in Grenada extends from the reef top at 8 meters (25 feet) down to a maximum depth of 21 meters. While the channel itself drops to 30 meters (100 feet), the primary dive profile for the site is generally within the 21-meter limit. This offers a good range for exploring both shallow reef life and deeper channel features.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Red Bouy, Grenada?
Divers at Red Bouy can expect to encounter a vibrant reef covered in all types of coral and sponges, hosting usual reef subjects. Keep an eye out for Lobsters and barracuda along the channel wall. Unique underwater features include old anchors along the channel edge and, if you're lucky, vintage Bakelite telephones that were historically dumped here.
How challenging is the Red Bouy dive site in Grenada for different skill levels of divers?
The Red Bouy dive site in Grenada is rated as having an intermediate difficulty level. This suggests that divers should have some prior experience beyond entry-level certifications to comfortably navigate the site, which is a deepwater entry channel to the port. It's suitable for divers looking for a slightly more challenging and rewarding experience.
What is the best time of year to dive the Red Bouy site in Grenada, considering local conditions and restrictions?
Diving at the Red Bouy site is specifically restricted to periods outside of Cruise ship season due to its location as a deepwater entry channel to the port. To plan your trip, it's advisable to consult local dive operators in Grenada for the exact dates of the cruise ship season. This ensures you can experience this unique site without operational conflicts.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at Red Bouy in Grenada?
Given that the Red Bouy dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty and has a maximum depth of 21 meters, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is generally recommended. This level of certification ensures divers have the necessary skills and experience for deeper dives and potentially varying conditions in a port entry channel. While not explicitly stated as required, it will enhance your safety and enjoyment.
What are the typical current strengths and visibility conditions at the Red Bouy dive site in Grenada?
The Red Bouy dive site in Grenada typically offers an average visibility of 14 meters. While specific current strengths are not provided, its designation as a deepwater entry channel to the port suggests that currents could be present and variable. Divers should be prepared for potential currents, which aligns with its intermediate difficulty rating.