SHAKEM - Southwest Coast

The Shakem, a 58.9m carrier, rests upright at 30m on Grenada's southwest coast. Sunk in 2001, she's well on her way to becoming a proper artificial reef, with plenty of growth now adorning her decks and superstructure. We've seen schools of snapper holding in the holds and barracuda patrolling the mast. Penetration is possible for experienced wreck divers, with the engine room and bridge offering interesting exploration. It's a solid dive for those who appreciate a wreck with a bit of history and a developing ecosystem.

Location
Southwest Coast, Grenada, Caribbean
Coordinates
12.028017, -61.785484
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
30m

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 SHAKEM

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 SHAKEM

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 maximum depth of the SHAKEM dive site and what is the typical dive profile?
The SHAKEM dive site has a maximum depth of 30 meters. As a dedicated wreck dive, divers typically explore the exterior and potentially some accessible areas of this fascinating carrier vessel. This intermediate-level dive offers a unique opportunity to explore a historical wreck.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the SHAKEM dive site?
At the SHAKEM dive site, divers can explore the impressive features of a 58.9m x 8.9m carrier vessel, which was sunk on May 30, 2001. This historic wreck, built in 1956, offers a unique opportunity to witness a significant piece of maritime history beneath the waves. While specific marine life data is not provided, the wreck itself is the primary attraction. For more general information on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is the SHAKEM dive site, and is it suitable for advanced divers only?
The SHAKEM dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. While not exclusively for advanced divers, its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" suggests that divers should possess appropriate experience and training for wreck diving. It's an excellent site for those comfortable with deeper dives and wreck exploration in Grenada.
What is the best time of year to dive the SHAKEM wreck for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at the SHAKEM wreck. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in Grenada, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date information on seasonal variations.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the SHAKEM wreck?
Given the maximum depth of 30 meters and its classification as an intermediate difficulty and "Dangerous wreck," an Advanced Open Water certification is generally recommended for diving the SHAKEM. Divers should also consider specialized wreck diving training to safely explore this unique site. Always dive within your certification limits and comfort level.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the SHAKEM dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current conditions or visibility at the SHAKEM dive site. Divers planning a trip to the Southwest Coast of Grenada should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions. Conditions can vary, so local knowledge is key for a safe and enjoyable dive.