When you think of reef dives, it’s not terribly likely that you envision a typical temperate water reef. However, if you’ve never explored a reef like those found throughout the Channel Islands, you are likely to be surprised at what you’ll find lying just beneath the surface. Though the English Channel’s waters may be cool and a bit murky at times, the diving can be absolutely fantastic. Come along as we explore several wonderfully scenic dive sites just off the coast of Jersey.
The Castle Breakwater
An outstanding dive site with lots to see at depths of up to just 14 meters, the Castle Breakwater is at its very best during high tide. Shoaling Pollock can be seen swimming around the breakwater’s heads, and inquisitive little tompot blennies can be found poking their heads out of their hiding places along the rock wall. Prawns, lobsters, and lots of crabs live here too, making this a site that’s outstanding for watching marine life. If you’re looking for a nice night dive while visiting Jersey, this is an excellent site to enjoy after the sun goes down.
Hinguette Reef
Possibly one of the nicest dives the Channel Islands has to offer, Hinguette Reef is teeming with life. Cuttlefish are commonly encountered here, as are smoothound sharks and rays. Pollack and pouting school around massive rocks, while numerous crustaceans tuck themselves away in sheltered hiding spots. The boulders and crevasses here are covered in soft coral and anemones, creating an outstanding opportunity for photographing macro life and larger animals alike. Maximum depth is just 22 meters, and as there is plenty to see at shallower depths, this site is great even for less experienced divers.
Les Ecrehous Reef
An offshore reef that is only accessible by boat, Les Ecrehous Reef boasts a lovely mantle of soft corals and sea anemones; the fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates you’ll find here are equally impressive. If you are fortunate, you’ll come face to face with the seals that live nearby, and many divers report encountering dolphins here as well. With depths between 10 and 20 meters, this site is both simple and magical to explore.
The Island of Sark
This lovely little island hides some fantastic underwater surprises: The reefs here are covered in colorful soft coral, as well as some hard corals you might not expect to find in a temperate marine environment. Pouting, lingcod, Pollock, and other fish can be seen swirling through the water here, and on closer examination, the reef reveals some of its better-hidden residents including conger eels, large lobsters, and spider crabs. Depths range from 5 to 50 meters, making the Island of Sark a fantastic destination for novices and experts alike.
These are just a few of the many reef dive sites available around Jersey; besides these, there are numerous wrecks to explore. If you enjoy shore diving, you’ll find there is no shortage. Jersey’s dive operators are knowledgeable and well-equipped, and diver-friendly accommodations are available. If you’re ready for a different kind of scuba diving adventure, Jersey is certain to please.