SARBO - Lighthouse Reef

The SARBO, a carrier vessel sunk in 1978, rests in just two meters of water on Lighthouse Reef. It's a surprisingly accessible wreck, perfect for a shallow dive or even a snorkel if you're keen. Even though it's broken up quite a bit since its stormy end, the sheer scale of the 111-meter hull is still impressive, with large sections of twisted metal and machinery creating plenty of nooks and crannies to explore. We've often spotted big schools of snapper holding tight to the deeper parts of the structure, and it’s a good spot for spotting nurse sharks tucked away in the shadows. It’s a nice change of pace from the reef walls, offering a historical touch with some good marine life thrown in.

Location
Lighthouse Reef, Belize, Central America
Coordinates
17.470833, -87.466670
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Northern Two Cayes, Lighthouse Reef

Best Time to Dive in Lighthouse Reef

The warmest water temperatures in Lighthouse Reef occur in September, averaging 30.0°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 27.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.2°C
  • February: 27.1°C
  • March: 27.2°C
  • April: 27.8°C
  • May: 28.6°C
  • June: 29.2°C
  • July: 29.3°C
  • August: 29.7°C
  • September: 30.0°C
  • October: 29.9°C
  • November: 28.9°C
  • December: 28.0°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Lighthouse Reef

Nearest Dive Centres to SARBO

Marine Life in Lighthouse Reef

Home to 216 recorded species including 175 reef fish, 20 hard corals, 9 other, 6 sharks & rays, 2 jellyfish, 2 sea urchins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for SARBO

Based on average water temperature of 28.6°C, currents 22 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°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 diving depth at Saba's dive sites, especially around the pinnacles?
Information regarding typical diving depths at Saba's dive sites, including pinnacles, is not available in the provided data context. The data describes the SARBO wreck in Lighthouse Reef, Belize, which has a depth of 2m and is an intermediate difficulty dive.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see when diving in Saba?
The provided data context does not contain information about the marine life or underwater topography expected when diving in Saba. It details the SARBO wreck, a carrier vessel sunk in 1978, located in Lighthouse Reef, Belize.
How challenging are the dive sites in Saba, and are there options for both beginner and advanced divers?
Details on the challenge level of dive sites in Saba, or options for different diver skill levels, are not present in the provided information. The data describes the SARBO wreck in Lighthouse Reef, Belize as having an intermediate difficulty, with a depth of 2m.
What is the best time of year to dive in Saba for optimal conditions and marine life sightings, such as whales?
The provided data context does not offer information on the best time of year to dive in Saba for optimal conditions or marine life sightings like whales. For general advice on when to dive, you might visit When to Dive. The data focuses on the SARBO wreck in Belize.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving in Saba, particularly for deeper or more challenging sites?
Information regarding required or recommended scuba diving certifications for Saba, especially for deeper or more challenging sites, is not available in the provided data. The SARBO wreck in Lighthouse Reef, Belize is classified as intermediate difficulty, with a depth of 2m.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at Saba's dive sites, and how do they vary?
The provided data context does not include details about typical currents or water conditions at Saba's dive sites. The information focuses on the SARBO wreck, a carrier vessel located in Lighthouse Reef, Belize, which was pounded heavily in bad weather at the time of its loss.