Tucker Shallow - St. Vincent

Bajo Negro, or Black Rock, is one of those spots that often gets overshadowed by the bigger names around Bat Island, but it’s a solid finish to a day of diving. We've often hit it on the way back from Big Scare, a convenient stop before heading all the way back to Potrero. Maxing out around 21 metres, it’s a rocky site where the action can feel a little unpredictable. One minute you're just cruising, then a sailfish streaks past or a big school of barracuda appears right beside you. Visibility averages around 11 metres, so it’s not always gin-clear, and you'll want to be ready for some current here and there. It’s a good, unpretentious dive for those who appreciate a bit of a wild card.

Location
St. Vincent, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Caribbean
Coordinates
13.357200, -61.210300
Difficulty
beginner

Marine Protected Area: Chateaubelair Islet Wildlife Reserve

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 Tucker Shallow

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 Tucker Shallow

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 is the typical depth range for diving at Tucker Shallow?
The typical depth range for diving at Tucker Shallow is between 5 meters (16 feet) and 12 meters (40 feet). While the reef extends to a maximum depth of 17 meters, the main area for exploration is within this shallower range, offering a bright and vibrant dive experience.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at Tucker Shallow?
Divers at Tucker Shallow can expect to explore a vibrant reef environment. Keep an eye out for nurse sharks, which are often found hiding under the overhangs of the reef structures. It's also common to encounter sea turtles during your dive at this site. For more information on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Tucker Shallow dive site for recreational divers?
Tucker Shallow is classified as a beginner level dive site, making it an excellent choice for new or less experienced recreational divers. Its shallow depths, ranging from 5 to 12 meters, contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable diving experience.
What are the best months or seasons to dive Tucker Shallow for good conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best months or seasons to dive Tucker Shallow for optimal conditions. For general guidance on diving seasons in the region, you might consult our when to dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive Tucker Shallow?
The provided information does not specify any particular diving certifications required for Tucker Shallow. However, as a beginner-friendly site, a basic open water certification is generally sufficient for recreational diving. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the usual water currents and visibility like at Tucker Shallow?
At Tucker Shallow, divers can expect an average visibility of 8 meters. The provided data does not include specific information regarding the usual water currents at this site.