This dive site, famously known as Pigeon Island, is a cornerstone of the Réserve Cousteau (Cousteau Reserve) located off the coast of Bouillante in Guadeloupe, a French Caribbean island. It offers a unique and highly versatile underwater topography, starting with a gentle plateau at just a few meters depth, which then dramatically transitions into steep drop-offs that plunge to depths of 40 meters. This varied structure allows for a wide range of dive profiles, from easy, shallow reef explorations perfect for beginners, to exhilarating wall dives catering to those specialized in deep diving. While historical shipwrecks are not its primary feature, the site itself is steeped in the history of marine conservation due to Jacques Cousteau's advocacy.
The vibrant coral reef ecosystem at Pigeon Island is a thriving habitat for a rich diversity of marine life, characteristic of the Caribbean. Divers can expect to encounter an extensive array of main Caribbean fish species, ranging from brightly colored parrotfish, angelfish, and damselfish to cleverly camouflaged groupers and scorpionfish. A particular highlight and frequent sight is the graceful hawksbill turtle, often seen foraging or resting among the corals. The reef itself is composed of various hard and soft corals, providing shelter and sustenance for countless smaller invertebrates and reef fish, making it a lively and visually stunning underwater environment.
The best time to visit Pigeon Island for diving is typically during Guadeloupe's dry season, which spans from December to May, offering calm seas, excellent visibility, and pleasant weather conditions. This site's inherent versatility makes it exceptionally suitable for both scuba divers and freedivers. The shallow plateau areas are ideal for snorkelers and introductory dives, while the deeper walls provide an excellent challenge and exploration opportunity for more experienced freedivers and advanced scuba enthusiasts. Divers are advised to be mindful of potential boat traffic, especially during peak seasons, and always adhere to responsible diving practices to preserve the pristine marine environment within the protected Cousteau Reserve.
