This dive site is the world-renowned wreck of the RMS Rhone, a Royal Mail Steamer that tragically sank during a hurricane on October 29, 1867. As the British Virgin Islands' most famous wreck dive, it offers a fascinating journey through history, with numerous artifacts still visible today. Divers can explore the intact bow section, which includes a notable swim-through, and visit the actual filming location for the 1977 movie "The Deep" offering a unique blend of history and pop culture.
The Rhone is teeming with marine life, making it a vibrant ecosystem. Expect to encounter large schools of soldier fish congregating around the wreck's structure. Other common sightings include graceful stingrays gliding over the seabed, various turtles, and the occasional Caribbean reef shark patrolling the area. For those undertaking a night dive, the wreck transforms, revealing a vibrant ecosystem of eels, lobsters, and crabs emerging from their daytime hideouts.
While the RMS Rhone is an exceptional dive at any time, night dives offer a unique opportunity to witness its nocturnal inhabitants in a different light. This site is suitable for a wide range of divers, from beginners to advanced, thanks to its accessible maximum depth and average depth. Its historical significance and abundant marine life make it an essential stop for any diver visiting the British Virgin Islands, providing excellent opportunities for both wide-angle and macro photography.
