Typical Depth Range:	Typical Current Conditions:	Expertise Required:	Access:
45 feet max	Surge, pay attention	Novice with instructor or divernaster	Boat
Just off the northwest point of Thatch Cay is a dive site considered by some divers to be the "piece de resistance" of dive sites - Tunnels of Thatch Cay. A relatively shallow dive averaging about 40 feet, it is an easy but wonderfully varied underwater experience to be enjoyed by all levels of divers. It is recommended that novices be accompanied by a divernaster or instructor only because the surge can be difficult to negotiate at times, especially for less experienced individuals. The Tunnels is visited by dive operators from both St. John and St. Thomas so no matter where you are based, you will have the opportunity to explore this site. The terrain is rocky, distinguished by a seriesof canyons and passageways, Seven arches and tunnels challenge the imagination of divers. Although most of the tunnels are short in length, one tunnel is a 60-foot, dog-legged passageway where divers enter on the bay side and emerge on the ocean side. Another square-shaped tunnel, which is somewhat protected from the surge, reveals bright orange tubastrea and delicate black coral. The high level of ambient light and the diversity and dramatic sculpturing of the terrain make this an excellent dive for underwater photography. For fish portraits or wide-angle photography, you will find tarpon, especially during the summer months, a host of tropical fish, expansive clouds of silversides, and interesting coral formations including the highly photogenic pillar coral. Clearly, variety is the spice, of this dive, which local dive operators rank with the best of them. It is not only a favorite of divernasters but of divers as well. Divers should note that, while this is not a difficult dive, the surge can on occasion become exceptionally heavy in the winter months. Pay extra attention to ensure that you do not inadvertently bang against the fragile corals and sponges that help to make this dive such a special one. Back to the dive page