Lesleen M and Vicky B Wrecks - Anse La Raye

Alright, North Shore Canoe Club. We know what you’re thinking: "A canoe club? Really?" But hear us out. This spot, tucked away in the Hauraki Gulf, has a surprising amount going for it if you're into something a bit different. Forget your technicolour coral. Here, the charm is in the unexpected. You gear up on the docks, which is pretty straightforward, then slip into the water. The first thing you'll notice are the thick aquatic reeds in the shallows, almost like an underwater meadow. We love poking around here; it’s a nursery for all sorts of juvenile fish and we've even spotted freshwater eels tucked amongst the stalks. Follow the rocky ridge gently sloping down, and you’ll hit the muddy bottom where, yes, visibility can drop, especially in summer with those thermoclines. But that’s when you slow right down and start looking for the small stuff. We've seen Black Stingrays gliding along the bottom and delicate White-striped Anemones clinging to the rocks. It’s a site that rewards patience, perfect for macro lovers or anyone keen to see the overlooked side of New Zealand's underwater world. It’s not for the faint of heart, or those chasing big pelagics, but for a quiet afternoon of exploring the overlooked, it’s our pick.

Location
Anse La Raye, St. Lucia, Caribbean
Coordinates
13.927100, -61.058100
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: West Coast (incl. Anse la Raye/Canaries Local Fisheries Management Area and Anse Cochon, Anse Galet and Anse la Verdures)

Best Time to Dive in Anse La Raye

The warmest water temperatures in Anse La Raye occur in January, averaging 27.7°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.7°C (air: 25.5°C)
  • February: 27.7°C (air: 25.5°C)
  • March: 27.7°C (air: 25.9°C)
  • April: 27.7°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • May: 27.7°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • June: 27.7°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • July: 27.7°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • August: 27.7°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • September: 27.7°C (air: 28.1°C)
  • October: 27.7°C (air: 27.8°C)
  • November: 27.7°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • December: 27.7°C (air: 26.2°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Anse La Raye

Nearest Dive Centres to Lesleen M and Vicky B Wrecks

Marine Life in Anse La Raye

Home to 261 recorded species including 232 reef fish, 11 whales & dolphins, 6 sharks & rays, 4 seagrass & algae, 3 sea snails & nudibranchs, 2 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Lesleen M and Vicky B Wrecks

Based on average water temperature of 27.7°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 are the typical depths for diving the Lesleen M and Vicky B wrecks?
The Lesleen M and Vicky B wrecks can be explored to a maximum depth of 21 meters. This makes them accessible for a range of certified divers looking to experience wreck diving in St. Lucia.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the Lesleen M and Vicky B dive sites?
Divers exploring the Lesleen M and Vicky B wrecks can expect to see two distinct wreck features: an old cargo ship (Lesleen M, sunk 1986) and an old fishing boat (Vicky B, sunk 2018). The Lesleen M Wreck has formed an artificial reef, providing a home to numerous species of coral and aquatic life. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level for diving the Lesleen M and Vicky B wrecks, and are they suitable for beginner divers?
The Lesleen M Wreck is considered an easy dive, ideal for novice divers, as it forms an artificial reef teeming with marine life. While the overall site is classified as intermediate, its accessibility makes it a great option for those new to wreck diving. These wrecks are located in Anse La Raye.
When is the best time of year to dive the Lesleen M and Vicky B wrecks for optimal conditions?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Lesleen M and Vicky B wrecks for optimal conditions. For general information on seasonal diving conditions, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What dive certifications are required to explore the Lesleen M and Vicky B wrecks, particularly for wreck penetration?
The provided data does not specify the exact dive certifications required to explore the Lesleen M and Vicky B wrecks, nor does it mention requirements for wreck penetration. Divers should always consult with local dive operators regarding specific certification needs for these sites.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions at the Lesleen M and Vicky B wreck dive sites?
Divers at the Lesleen M and Vicky B wreck dive sites can typically expect an average visibility of 16 meters. The provided data does not include specific information regarding current conditions at these sites. For details on essential dive equipment, visit our dedicated page.