CUMULUS - St. Croix

Cumulus isn't your typical St. Croix dive, and we love that about it. This isn't a deep dive, not even close, topping out at a maximum of two metres. What it is, though, is a fantastic wreck for snorkelers and even freedivers looking to explore a piece of history right from the surface. The Cumulus, a motor vessel from 1959, went hard aground in 1977, carrying a cargo of construction equipment – think cranes, dump trucks, and a concrete pump. Today, those pieces of machinery are fused into a low-lying, broken-up hull. You'll see the skeletal remains of what was once a substantial ship. We particularly enjoy poking around the twisted metal, imagining the chaos as it settled. Schools of small grunts often shelter within the deeper pockets, and we've spotted some surprisingly colourful parrotfish grazing on the algae-covered structure. It's a shallow, sun-drenched site that’s perfect for a lazy afternoon; you can spend ages just floating above it, watching the light play on the rusting metal below. If you're looking for an easy, accessible wreck with a cool story, this is our pick.

Location
St. Croix, US Virgin Islands, Caribbean
Coordinates
17.783375, -64.751470
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Salt River Bay National Historic Park and Ecological Preserve

Best Time to Dive in St. Croix

The warmest water temperatures in St. Croix occur in January, averaging 27.0°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.0°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.0°C (air: 24.6°C)
  • February: 27.0°C (air: 24.3°C)
  • March: 27.0°C (air: 24.6°C)
  • April: 27.0°C (air: 25.2°C)
  • May: 27.0°C (air: 26.3°C)
  • June: 27.0°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • July: 27.0°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • August: 27.0°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • September: 27.0°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • October: 27.0°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • November: 27.0°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • December: 27.0°C (air: 25.5°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in St. Croix

Nearest Dive Centres to CUMULUS

Marine Life in St. Croix

Home to 465 recorded species including 391 reef fish, 38 hard corals, 9 sharks & rays, 6 seagrass & algae, 6 whales & dolphins, 5 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for CUMULUS

Based on average water temperature of 27.0°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 the CUMULUS dive site?
The CUMULUS dive site is quite shallow, with a typical depth of 2m. This makes it an accessible wreck dive, perfect for exploring the remains of the motor vessel. Its shallow nature allows for extended bottom times, ideal for detailed exploration.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at CUMULUS?
Divers at the CUMULUS dive site can expect to explore a fascinating wreck, a motor vessel that sank in 1977. The site features the remains of its cargo, including construction equipment, cranes, dump trucks, and a concrete pump. While specific marine life isn't detailed, wrecks typically become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time, which you can research in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the CUMULUS dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The CUMULUS dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. While the depth is quite shallow at 2m, wreck diving often requires specific skills beyond basic open water, making it less suitable for absolute beginners. Divers should have appropriate training and experience for wreck exploration.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at CUMULUS for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season for optimal diving conditions at the CUMULUS dive site. For general information on diving seasons in St. Croix, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section for broader regional insights.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at the CUMULUS site?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated, given that CUMULUS is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, it is highly recommended that divers possess appropriate wreck diving certifications or experience. This ensures safety and proper technique when exploring the 22.9m motor vessel. Always check with local dive operators in St. Croix for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current and water conditions experienced at the CUMULUS dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current or water conditions at the CUMULUS dive site. Divers planning a trip to St. Croix should consult local dive centers for up-to-date conditions before diving. Understanding local conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.