2m
    Ocho Rios, Jamaica
    Palisadoes- Port Royal Protected Area

    PILAR DE CARIBBEAN

    Best months: Jan–Mar

    Protected Area

    Palisadoes- Port Royal Protected Area

    Why dive here

    With 361+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda, bull sharks, eagle rays, nurse sharks and seahorses - PILAR DE CARIBBEAN offers some of Ocho Rios's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 27-31°C, warmest August, September, October.

    Best timeJan–Mar
    WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit
    Marine lifeBarracuda, Bull Sharks, Eagle Rays, Nurse Sharks and Seahorses · 361+ species recorded
    Water27-31°C · warmest August, September, October
    CharacterWreck dive · max 2m
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    The Pilar de Caribbean isn't one of those deep, technical wrecks; it’s practically a snorkel site, resting in just two metres of water, but don't let the shallowness fool you. This isn't some broken-up junk pile. We love how surprisingly intact the motor vessel remains, especially the bow. You can still make out the lines of the deck and the wheelhouse, giving it real character. Exploring it feels less like a dive and more like an archaeological stroll. This wreck, even at its shallow depth, has become a proper home. Look closely at the hull and you'll spot juvenile parrotfish picking at algae, and we've regularly seen banded coral shrimp tucked into crevices. The light plays beautifully through the superstructure, casting dancing patterns that make for fantastic wide-angle photos. Our favourite part? The way the soft corals have started to colonise the exposed metal, adding splashes of purple and orange against the rust. It's a perfect spot for newer divers to experience a wreck without the anxiety of depth, or for anyone wanting a relaxed second dive that still feels like an adventure. Head out in the morning before boat traffic picks up for the best light and calmest conditions.

    Typical PILAR DE CARIBBEAN Dive Profile

    Safety Stop0m2m max~60 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Today06:0017:5011h 50m daylightGolden hour 17:21

    Reviews for PILAR DE CARIBBEAN

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for PILAR DE CARIBBEAN

    PILAR DE CARIBBEAN Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for PILAR DE CARIBBEAN, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (17.95, -76.78) (14km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    31°C

    87°F · Range: 28.7–31.9°C

    Air Temperature

    27°C

    81°F

    Wind Speed

    3.66 m/s

    7.1 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1012.6 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive Ocho Rios, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in Ocho Rios

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near Ocho Rios.

    Search stays in Ocho Rios

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near PILAR DE CARIBBEAN

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to Ocho Rios