Diving in Jamaica offers a large variety of dive spots for divers of all skill levels. See rays, sharks, sea turtles, colorful fish and corals up close. Jamaica’s crystal clear waters invite scuba divers to come back again and again to explore and find new discoveries each time they dive.
There are more than 260 species of reef fish that have been recorded in the waters of Jamaica. Some of the marine life you are sure to see, including four-eye butterflyfish, sharpnose puffer, parrot fish, sea slugs, mackerel and barracuda. You might also spot bluehead wrasse, eels, sea turtles, a West Indian manatee, nurse sharks and more. Soft corals and sponges make delicate accompaniments to the large and fantastic corals they cling near. There is also a chance you might spot large sharks or even a whale on migration.
Beware of fire coral while on your dive, which will give you an irritating burn wherever it makes contact with your skin.
Getting to the island by air is an easy feat. Jamaica’s major airports are Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay and the Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) in Ocho Rios.
Another popular and soothing way to make your way to the island is via cruise ship.
Located among the calm and shallow Abaco Sea, the Abaco Islands feature easy diving in colorful environments. The coral reefs here are pristine and protected, giving them the added benefit of healthy marine life. They are also quite shallow. Consequently, this is a great place for beginners to get comfortable in their fins. Don’t worry. Advanced divers will have...