Learn to Dive in Jamaica
Jamaica’s Highlights
Most dive sites are uncrowded which makes a change from some of its neighbors. Most dive sites are close to shore at 5 to 40 minutes boat ride away. Eagle rays, turtles and tropical fish are common to be spotted during a dive. There are great dive sites located across Jamaica including Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, Montego Bay and Negril. The first marine park was established in Montego Bay in 1992 with subsequent protected parks established in Negril and Ocho Rios. The most interesting dive sites feature swim-throughs, caves and wrecks.
When is the best time to go diving in Jamaica?
It is possible to dive in Jamaica all year-round. June to September offer the calmest conditions and best visibility. Between December and April offers the best diving conditions. From May to November, there is the chance of rain. Hurricanes usually hit Jamaica in October and November.
Water Temperature: The water is always warm ranging between 24°C and 29°C.
Currents: None to strong
Visibility: From 10 to 40 meters.
Jamaica’s best dive sites
Throne Room, Negril
Located at a depth of 20 meters, the Throne Room is an underwater cavern with a huge throne-like elephant ear sponge, awarding this dive site its name. Nurse sharks and barracudas are some of the most interesting marine life at this site.
Widowmaker’s Cave, Montego Bay
This is a chimney-like dive site that can be started from either the bottom or the top. You can choose whether to swim down the chimney or enter the cave near 30 meters and exit around 10 meters. Black coral, schools of fish and barracuda can be found at this dive site.
SS Kathryn Wreck, Ocho Rios
One of Jamaica’s most popular dive sites, the SS Kathryn Wreck is a WWII mine-sweeper. A 43 long meter ship It was sunk in the 1950’s to create an artificial reef and is now home to coral and marine life. The wreck is in good condition and you can penetrate it at many spots.
About the country
Jamaica is so much more than beautiful beaches and reggae music. With a distinct history, culture and cuisine, Jamaica is a wonderful place to visit. It has some stunning waterfalls that are must-sees during your visit, Mayfield Falls, Reach Falls and YS Falls.
Recreational Courses in Jamaica
Dive Centers in Jamaica
Getting to Jamaica
With three international airports, Jamaica is accessible to the rest of the world. The Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay is one of the busiest. The Ian Fleming International Airport is the best for those wanting to visit Ocho Rio.
Other important information
- Capital: Kingston
- Official Language: English
- Demonym: Jamaican
- Currency: Jamaican dollar (JMD)
- Calling code: +1-876
- Driving Side: left
- Population: Over 2,726,000
- Pressure: Pounds/square inch (psi)
- First Stage: INT/Yoke
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One of the best things about diving in Montego Bay Marine Park is that there is something for everyone. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, you will find dive sites that are perfect for you. If you want to see some of the most beautiful reefs in Jamaica, then you need to dive in Montego Bay Marine Park.
The Blue Lagoon is a protected marine park that is home to an abundance of marine life, including over 50 species of coral.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot a turtle or two while you’re diving!
There are so many things to see when you’re diving in Ocho Rios. The reefs are teeming with life and the colors are absolutely incredible. You’ll see everything from reef fish to turtles and maybe even a shark or two!
If you’re new to diving, there are plenty of dive shops and instructors in South Coast that can help you get started. They will help you with everything from renting gear to taking classes. Once you’re certified, you can start exploring the amazing dive sites that Jamaica has to offer.