Cayman Brac, part of the British Overseas Territory, the Cayman Islands, in the western Caribbean Sea, is a paradise for scuba divers. It provides excellent visibility, a myriad of marine life, and numerous fascinating dive sites, making it a must-visit destination for diving enthusiasts worldwide.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers
MV Captain Keith Tibbetts: This is one of the few dive-able Russian warships in the Western Hemisphere. The 330-foot-long wreck lies in two parts, and divers can explore the inside of the ship, making it an exciting dive for those with wreck diving experience.
East Chute: This wall dive plunges to a depth of more than 6000 feet. The wall is adorned with sponges, corals, and you might encounter eagle rays, turtles, and barracudas. This site is more suitable for experienced divers due to its depth and potential currents.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners
Inside Out: This is a shallow reef dive, with depths ranging from 20 to 40 feet, making it ideal for beginners. It boasts a healthy coral reef and an abundance of tropical fish.
Heddy's Reef: Another site suitable for beginners, Heddy's Reef is a shallow dive with the maximum depth being around 50 feet. The reef is home to vibrant corals, sponges, and diverse marine life.
Marine Life
Cayman Brac offers an incredibly rich marine life. Divers can spot a variety of creatures, including eagle rays, reef sharks, barracudas, turtles, moray eels, and a plethora of tropical fish. The coral reefs are vibrant, and the MV Captain Keith Tibbetts wreck is a hotspot for macro life such as nudibranchs and shrimp.
Dive Conditions
The Cayman Islands, including Cayman Brac, are known for their excellent dive conditions. The water is warm year-round, with temperatures ranging from 78°F to 82°F. Visibility often exceeds 100 feet, and the waters are generally calm, making it suitable for divers of all levels. However, as with all diving, conditions can vary, so it's always important to check with local dive operators.
Cost
The cost for a two-tank dive in Cayman Brac can range from $130 to $150, depending on the dive operator. This usually includes the dive guide, tanks, and weights. Gear rental and dive courses are extra. A PADI open water certification course typically costs around $450-$500.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, Cayman Brac offers an array of diving experiences that cater to all levels of expertise and interest, from vibrant reefs to fascinating wrecks.