The third largest of the Caribbean islands, Jamaica's reefs feature caverns and overhangs, not to mention plenty of beautiful corals. Along the island's coastline, there are also several wrecks to explore, including accidental wrecks and artificial wrecks, all of which combine to add excitement and outstanding habitat for Jamaica's marine life. Here are just seven wrecks to help you begin planning your dive vacation in Jamaica.
Ann Bonnie
The Ann Bonnie is, alas, not a pirate ship, but she is an interesting dive nonetheless. This 50 foot long boat was deployed as an artificial reef by a local resort, whose design team did their best to make the boat over to resemble an old buccaneer's ship. With reproduction cannons made of molded concrete mounted to her decks, and sitting in just 30 feet of water, the Ann Bonnie is a fun wreck dive for everyone.
Cayman Trader
A Norwegian cargo ship that caught fire and sank in 1977, the Cayman Trader now lies between the South and Southeast Keys in Kingston Harbor. Easily accessible, as she lies at depths between just 60 and 70 feet, this wreck is home to a splendid array of marine life. Due to her position, Cayman Trader often suffers from poor visibility, but she's worth a visit nevertheless.
La Dominica
Suitable only for experienced divers, the La Dominica is a three masted schooner wreck. This ship is located just beyond the old airport runway, and has been here since the 1951 hurricane caused her demise. While depths are only between 20 and 30 feet, there are many entanglement hazards here and visibility is poor at just 2 to 3 feet most of the time. Be sure to carry a sharp knife when you visit.
Planes
Two Cessnas lying off the western shore near Negril make for an exciting dive. The first one is intact and lies at a depth of 50 feet, while the second is in decent condition and is at a depth of 90 feet. These planes didn't get her by accident - after being damaged by Hurricane Gilbert, they were left abandoned at the Negril Airport. In 1988, local divers deployed them to act as artificial reefs and dive attractions.
Pete
Located near the Planes, the Pete is an old tugboat that was deployed to act as habitat for marine life and as a dive attraction. 50 feet long and cleaned prior to being sunk, the Pete wreck can be penetrated, and is covered in swathes of soft coral and sponges. Look for the turtles that sometimes visit this wreck!
Texas
Located southeast of Port Royal, the Texas was a British mine layer that was lost after a collision in 1942. 100 feet long and sitting upright, the Texas features magnificent black coral growth and is home to a spectacular array of fish, invertebrates, and crustaceans. You'll find the stack at a depth of 80 feet, and the ship's propeller at a depth of 110 feet. In addition, you can visit the anti-aircraft gun, which is still mounted to her deck at the bow. While there is little current, the Texas wreck is located in shipping lanes. Use caution and follow harbormasters' regulations when planning a trip, particularly if you rent your own boat out of Port Royal to access it.
Kathryn
Located just off Ocho Rios, the Kathryn is a 140 foot steel mine sweeper, which was deployed to act as an artificial reef in 1991. Located just 50 feet below the surface, the ship can be penetrated and features a surprising amount of black coral as well as friendly fish that have become accustomed to divers feeding them by hand.
With a rich history and plenty of topside attractions, Jamaica is a popular destination you and even non-diving friends and family members are certain to enjoy. There are plenty of Jamaican travel specials on offer most of the time, so planning this trip is almost as simple as relaxing once you arrive!