This dive site, Jan Thiel baai, is situated in a bustling bay in Curaçao, easily accessible directly from the beach, making it ideal for families. Underwater, divers will find a fascinating wreck and a platform to explore, providing shelter and interest. The predominant terrain is a sandy bottom, extending to approximately 15 meters, offering ample space for navigation and discovery. While no specific history of the wreck is provided, its presence adds a captivating artificial reef element to the dive, inviting exploration of its nooks and crannies.
The sandy bottom and structures at Jan Thiel baai provide habitats for a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to find numerous small creatures, including crustaceans, gobies, and blennies hidden in the sand or under the platform. The wreck serves as an artificial reef, likely attracting schooling fish, moray eels, and various invertebrates. While large pelagics are not typically expected, common Caribbean reef fish such as parrotfish, angelfish, and snapper are likely present, along with patches of hard and soft corals on and around the structures.
The best time to visit Jan Thiel baai for diving and snorkeling aligns with Curaçao's generally good weather, typically outside of hurricane season (June-November), with drier months being December to May. Its easy entry and shallow depths make it perfect for beginner divers and a great spot for dive training. Freedivers will appreciate the platform and wreck for practice and exploration within breath-hold limits. As it's a busy beach, early morning dives might offer quieter conditions and better chances to spot marine life before the area becomes too crowded.
