North-West Point - St. Vincent

Richmond Beach is a pleasant surprise. Forget the typical Caribbean wide-angle show; this is a macro lover's delight, a real slow-dive spot. From the moment you slip in from shore, just ten metres out, you’re in a different world. We’re talking about a maximum depth of 16m, but don't let that fool you. The coral formations here are impressive, almost sculpted, layered with soft corals, gorgonians, and sponges that really pop with colour even when the visibility averages around 6m. We love spending time in these nooks and crannies. You’ll find Pearl Blennies poking their heads out, Stippled Clingfish clinging to the reef, and if you’re patient, a Saddle Stargazer buried in the sand, just its eyes peeking out. Keep an eye out for Spitlure Frogfish camouflaged amongst the sponges. It’s an easy dive, perfect for photographers wanting to spend time with their subjects, or anyone who enjoys taking things slow and really observing the smaller details.

Location
St. Vincent, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Caribbean
Coordinates
13.017800, -61.248900
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
10-25m

Marine Protected Area: Bequia Marine Conservation Area

Best Time to Dive in St. Vincent

The warmest water temperatures in St. Vincent occur in January, averaging 27.8°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.8°C (air: 25.7°C)
  • February: 27.8°C (air: 25.8°C)
  • March: 27.8°C (air: 26.1°C)
  • April: 27.8°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • May: 27.8°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • June: 27.8°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • July: 27.8°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • August: 27.8°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • September: 27.8°C (air: 28.2°C)
  • October: 27.8°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • November: 27.8°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • December: 27.8°C (air: 26.4°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in St. Vincent

Nearest Dive Centres to North-West Point

Marine Life in St. Vincent

Home to 271 recorded species including 237 reef fish, 10 hard corals, 7 whales & dolphins, 4 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 seagrass & algae, 3 sharks & rays.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for North-West Point

Based on average water temperature of 27.8°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 diving depths and maximum depths at North-West Point dive sites?
At North-West Point, the vibrant reef starts at 7m/25ft and extends down to 25m/82ft. Divers typically explore this site with a maximum depth of 20m.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at North-West Point?
Divers visiting North-West Point can expect to explore a healthy, vibrant reef with diverse marine life. You'll likely spot filefish, trumpetfish, trunkfish, and cowfish, while morays and spiny lobster can be found hiding under coral heads. Keep an eye on large boulders for the chance to spot elusive frogfish, adding to your wildlife encounters.
How challenging is diving at North-West Point, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
North-West Point is classified as an intermediate dive site, offering a truly memorable experience for those with some diving experience. Due to its intermediate difficulty, it is not typically recommended for beginner divers.
What is the best time of year to dive at North-West Point for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data for North-West Point does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. For general information on when to dive in the region, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at North-West Point?
As North-West Point is an intermediate dive site, divers should possess certifications appropriate for this level of difficulty. This typically means having experience beyond entry-level, ensuring you are comfortable with varying conditions.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like when diving at North-West Point?
Diving at North-West Point is conducted depending on the current conditions, indicating that currents can be a factor. Divers can generally expect excellent visibility, with an average of 20m (65ft), offering clear views of the vibrant reef and its inhabitants.