Shark Hole - Corn Islands

The Tian Xiang is the newest addition to Mauritius’ artificial reef programme, and we’re pretty excited about it. Sunk in 2015, this fishing vessel sits upright at 36 metres, making it a proper deep dive. Dropping down, the first thing you notice is the sheer size, a dark shape emerging from the blue. It’s got a good penetration route, too. We’ve enjoyed exploring the bridge and engine room, feeling the cool hush inside, though always with a good light. What really makes the Tian Xiang special for us is how quickly it's become a thriving habitat. Already, its railings are thick with honeycomb corals and swaying staghorn. You’ll weave through clouds of yellowstriped cardinalfish, and we’ve spotted plenty of orbicular batfish circling the mast. Keep an eye out for the resident reef margin blennies peeking from crevices – they’re our favourite. It's a prime spot for experienced divers looking for a challenging wreck and a glimpse into how quickly a new reef can form.

Location
Corn Islands, Nicaragua, Central America
Coordinates
12.291200, -82.969400
Type
wreck

Best Time to Dive in Corn Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Corn Islands occur in January, averaging 28.3°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.3°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • February: 28.3°C (air: 26.4°C)
  • March: 28.3°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • April: 28.3°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • May: 28.3°C (air: 27.7°C)
  • June: 28.3°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • July: 28.3°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • August: 28.3°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • September: 28.3°C (air: 27.8°C)
  • October: 28.3°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • November: 28.3°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • December: 28.3°C (air: 26.9°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Corn Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Shark Hole

Marine Life in Corn Islands

Home to 209 recorded species including 173 reef fish, 21 hard corals, 3 other, 3 sharks & rays, 3 sea snails & nudibranchs, 2 starfish.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Shark Hole

Based on average water temperature of 28.3°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 maximum depth for diving at the Shark Hole dive site in Belize?
The maximum depth for diving at the Shark Hole dive site in Nicaragua is 15 meters. This site, located east of Little Corn Island, offers an interesting underwater landscape. For more details on diving in the region, visit our Nicaragua country page.
What types of sharks and other marine life can divers expect to encounter at Shark Hole?
While the name suggests otherwise, the provided data for Shark Hole does not list any specific shark species. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of other vibrant marine life, including Parrotfish, Angelfish, Damselfish, Grouper, Snapper, Barracuda, and Butterflyfish. The site also features beautiful soft coral formations and stretches of sand, contributing to its interesting underwater landscape. Explore more about marine species in our wildlife database.
What is the required skill level or experience for diving Shark Hole?
Diving at the Shark Hole dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty. Divers should have appropriate experience and training for this skill level to safely enjoy the unique underwater landscape. This ensures a rewarding experience exploring the arm of sand and soft coral formations.
When is the best time of year to dive Shark Hole for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive Shark Hole for optimal conditions is not available in the provided data. We recommend checking general when to dive resources for the Corn Islands or Nicaragua to determine the ideal diving season.
What specific diving certifications are needed to dive Shark Hole in Belize?
The provided data does not specify particular diving certifications required for Shark Hole, which is located in Nicaragua, not Belize. However, given its classification as an intermediate dive site, divers should possess standard certifications appropriate for this skill level. Always consult with local dive operators in the Corn Islands for their specific requirements before planning your dive.
What are the typical underwater conditions, including currents and visibility, at the Shark Hole dive site?
At the Shark Hole dive site, visibility is generally good, ranging from 10-20 meters, with an average visibility of 15 meters. The topography features an interesting underwater landscape resembling an arm of sand with a narrow path, complemented by soft coral formations. Information regarding typical currents at this site is not provided in the available data.