Whibbles Reef - Southwest Coast

Aquarium lives up to its name with generally calm conditions, making it a good spot for newer divers or those looking for an easy, relaxed dive. You'll find a gently sloping reef with plenty of small fish, often schooling fusiliers, and sea bream darting between the rocks. It’s a comfortable depth, perfect for extending your bottom time and working on buoyancy, though experienced divers might find it a bit sedate.

Location
Southwest Coast, Grenada, Caribbean
Coordinates
12.023200, -61.799500
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
25-40m

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 Whibbles Reef

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 Whibbles Reef

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 Whibbles Reef?
Diving at Whibbles Reef typically ranges from 25 to 40 meters (82-131 feet). While the reef structure itself extends deeper, with its top at 17 meters (50 feet) and dropping to 51 meters (150 feet), the recommended diving profile is within the 25-40m range. This deep-water reef offers a unique experience for divers.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at Whibbles Reef?
Divers at Whibbles Reef can expect to encounter a rich variety of marine life, including large pelagics, stingrays, turtles, large jacks, and barracuda year-round. During July and August, a special highlight is the adult male Quillfinn blenny, which can be seen in full colors in the sand looking to attract a mate. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at Whibbles Reef, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
Diving at Whibbles Reef is rated as intermediate difficulty. Due to its deep water nature, with typical depths ranging from 25-40 meters, it is not suitable for beginner divers or those without appropriate deep diving experience. Divers should possess the necessary skills and certifications for intermediate-level dives.
What is the best time of year to dive Whibbles Reef for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify a "best time of year" for optimal diving conditions at Whibbles Reef in terms of general visibility or currents. However, for wildlife enthusiasts, July and August are particularly special as this is when the adult male Quillfinn blenny can be observed in its full mating colors. For general guidance on diving seasons, you can check our when to dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Whibbles Reef?
Given the intermediate difficulty and typical depth range of 25-40 meters (82-131 feet), divers will need at least an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. This ensures you have the necessary training and experience for deep diving and managing potential currents. Always dive within your certification limits and comfort zone at Whibbles Reef.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at Whibbles Reef?
At Whibbles Reef, divers can expect an average visibility of 15 meters (50 feet). While specific current strengths are not detailed, the presence of currents is indicated as a factor influencing the sighting of smaller creatures. Divers should be prepared for potential currents, which are common in deep-water reef environments.