Stavronikita Wreck
Dive into the SS Stavronikita, a majestic 111m freighter sunk in 1978, now a vibrant artificial reef teeming with marine life in Barbados' Carlisle Ba...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Calmer seas, better visibility
Stavronikita Wreck
Best Time
Calmer seas, better visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dive into the SS Stavronikita, a majestic 111m freighter sunk in 1978, now a vibrant artificial reef teeming with marine life in Barbados' Carlisle Bay.
"An unforgettable adventure exploring a sunken ship covered in corals and alive with fish!"
Book in Advance
Secure your dive trip with operators like Barbados Blue to ensure availability.
Beginner Friendly
Many operators offer 'Discover Scuba' for novices. Refresher courses are common.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
SS Stavronikita Wreck
Carlisle Bay Marine Park
Explore a 111m Greek freighter sunk in 1978, now a vibrant artificial reef teeming with marine life.
Abundant Marine Life
Carlisle Bay Marine Park
Encounter turtles, rays, and a kaleidoscope of colorful fish amidst the coral-encrusted wreck.
Coral Encrustations
SS Stavronikita Wreck
Witness the stunning transformation of the wreck into a living reef, covered in diverse corals.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dive into Carlisle Bay
Wreck Diving Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book in Advance
Secure your dive trip with operators like Barbados Blue to ensure availability.
Beginner Friendly
Many operators offer 'Discover Scuba' for novices. Refresher courses are common.
A really fun wreck to dive in (Barbados)
Respect Marine Life
Observe turtles and fish from a distance; avoid touching corals or disturbing the ecosystem.
Check Visibility
Conditions can vary; operators prioritize safety and may reschedule if visibility is poor.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book in Advance
Secure your dive trip with operators like Barbados Blue to ensure availability.
Beginner Friendly
Many operators offer 'Discover Scuba' for novices. Refresher courses are common.
Respect Marine Life
Observe turtles and fish from a distance; avoid touching corals or disturbing the ecosystem.
Check Visibility
Conditions can vary; operators prioritize safety and may reschedule if visibility is poor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Stavronikita Wreck dive for its abundant marine life and the impressive state of the wreck itself. Dive operators, particularly Barbados Blue, receive high marks for their professionalism, safety, and ability to cater to all experience levels, from beginners to certified divers. The experience is often described as unforgettable and highly recommended.
"We had a great time with Barbados Blue! We set up the dive 2 days before hand and the staff couldn't any friendlier and informative! My daughter and I are open water certified but they included a refresher course before the dive to make sure we were all caught up on safety, etc... They have several different packages so just talk with them and they will set you right up!"
Mike Velez
"Fantastic Experience! of 'Discover Scuba'! This was my first time diving ever, and it went really smoothly! First we had to study the skills and take a short quiz. Then there was practice in the hotel pool which was perfect, it got me comfortable, and the diving guy made sure we were clear on all the skills. Then we went out in the open water to dive. I was lucky to be the only one on this tour (several others were experienced and booked other tours and came on our boat) and so I had a dedicated diving master, Nicole, with me the entire time. She was wonderful! I saw a turtle feeding, a huge ray, and many wonderful colored fish. Worth it to get out of my comfort zone for this experience! Thanks Nicole and everyone at Barbados Blue!!"
Eileen Weed
"Had an amazing first-time scuba diving experience with Barbados Blue Water Sports! I booked the PADI Discover Scuba session as I was an absolute novice, which started with a morning training session in the pool to get familiar with the gear and all the safety essentials. The plan was to head out to Carlisle Bay in the afternoon to dive among the shipwrecks, but unfortunately, the weather wasn’t on our side.
Our instructor, Jay, was fantastic—super knowledgeable, patient, and reassuring. After assessing the conditions, he advised us not to go out that afternoon due to poor visibility, which I really appreciated because it showed how much they prioritize safety and making sure we have the best possible experience. The team was incredibly flexible and rescheduled our dive for a few days later when the weather improved—at no extra cost!
When we finally got to do the dive, it was absolutely stunning—exploring the shipwrecks and seeing all the marine life up close was an unforgettable experience. I felt completely safe and comfortable the entire time thanks to Jay’s guidance.
Highly recommend Barbados Blue Water Sports to anyone looking to try scuba diving—top-notch team, excellent instruction, and an unforgettable adventure! 🤿🐠🌊"
Stephanie H
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Stavronikita Wreck is located in Carlisle Bay Marine Park, on the south coast of Barbados, near Bridgetown. Access is typically via boat organized by dive operators. Most dive centers operate out of Bridgetown or nearby marinas.
Barbados Blue Water Sports is frequently recommended for their excellent instruction and flexible rescheduling. Other reputable operators also offer trips to the wreck.
Yes, Carlisle Bay is very close to Bridgetown. Many hotels and accommodations are within easy reach, and taxis are readily available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, a special permit is not required for divers. However, Carlisle Bay is a marine park, and dive operators will handle any necessary park fees as part of their package.
Costs vary depending on the dive operator and package. A 'Discover Scuba' experience or a certified dive trip usually ranges from $100-$200 USD.
Dive centers typically operate in the mornings and afternoons. It's best to check with your chosen operator for their specific schedule and to book your dive in advance.
While same-day bookings might be possible during off-peak times, it's highly recommended to book at least a few days in advance, especially during tourist season, to guarantee your spot.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The Stavronikita Wreck sits upright at a maximum depth of approximately 36 meters (120 feet). This makes it suitable for certified divers with appropriate experience.
Expect to see a variety of marine life including turtles, rays, large schools of fish, and various coral species that have encrusted the wreck.
While the wreck itself is a deeper dive, many operators offer 'Discover Scuba' programs in shallower areas of Carlisle Bay, or guided dives with experienced instructors for beginners.
Visibility can vary depending on weather and sea conditions, but it's generally good in Carlisle Bay. Dive operators will advise on conditions and may reschedule if visibility is poor for safety.
Yes, Carlisle Bay is known as a 'shipwreck graveyard' and has five wrecks in total, all within easy reach of each other, offering diverse diving experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the wreck and its surroundings. Natural light filtering through the water can create dramatic effects. Get close to marine life for detailed shots, but always maintain a respectful distance.
Yes, if you have an underwater camera or phone case, you can take photos. Your instructor will ensure you are comfortable and safe, allowing you to focus on capturing memories.
An action camera like a GoPro with a dive housing is popular. For more advanced photography, consider a dedicated underwater camera with strobes to bring out the colors of the coral and marine life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Snorkeling is also a great option for families, offering a chance to see colorful fish and potentially sea turtles without needing certification. Look for operators who offer family-friendly tours that cater to different comfort levels. The clear, warm waters make it an enjoyable and memorable experience for all ages.
🤿 Certified Divers
Beyond the Stavronikita, Carlisle Bay boasts four other wrecks, providing ample opportunities for multiple dives. Divers can expect to encounter a rich variety of marine life, making each dive a unique experience. It's advisable to book with reputable dive shops that prioritize safety and offer well-maintained equipment.
📸 Underwater Photographers
Photographers should aim for morning dives when light penetration is often best. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the scale of the wreck and the schooling fish, while macro lenses can be used to focus on the intricate details of the corals and smaller marine creatures. Be prepared for varying visibility and consider bringing strobes to enhance color saturation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Diving the Stavronikita: A Deeper Look
Divers often report seeing a diverse array of marine life around the wreck, including large schools of fish, moray eels, and even the occasional sea turtle or ray. The sheer size of the vessel allows for exploration of different sections, from the deck to the cargo holds, though penetration is generally recommended only for highly experienced wreck divers with proper training and equipment.
For those new to diving, many operators in Carlisle Bay offer 'Discover Scuba' experiences in shallower waters nearby, or guided dives on other wrecks in the bay. The Stavronikita is a testament to how sunken vessels can transform into vibrant underwater habitats, offering a unique glimpse into marine conservation and the beauty of the underwater world.
Carlisle Bay Marine Park: A Protected Underwater Haven
The bay's calm waters and relatively shallow depths (most wrecks are within 15 meters/50 feet, except for the Stavronikita) make it accessible for all levels of divers and snorkelers. Visitors can expect to encounter a wide variety of fish species, sea turtles, and even seahorses. The protection measures in place have contributed to the area's reputation as one of the best places for marine encounters in Barbados.
Dive operators frequently organize trips to Carlisle Bay, often combining dives on multiple wrecks or offering snorkeling tours. The park's accessibility from Bridgetown and its abundance of marine life make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring Barbados' underwater treasures. Remember to always follow responsible tourism practices to help preserve this beautiful ecosystem.
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