Notable Shipwrecks of the Caribbean

Submerge yourself and discover a different realm!

Experiencing a shipwreck up close is like stepping into another world. You’ll find the corroded metal, the enigma of its sinking, and often vibrant coral enveloping the hull or swaying on the deck with the ocean's flow. Plus, there are sea creatures calling it home!

It takes a daring adventurer to dive or snorkel around these spectral vessels, especially when you might encounter nurse sharks or large groupers making the wreck their sanctuary—but it’s truly a unique adventure that will gift you a memorable tale! History enthusiasts and naval fans will relish uncovering the stories of submerged submarines and battleships.

Here are the premier shipwrecks to explore in the Caribbean:   

Bimini, Bahamas: The SS Sapona

Let’s begin with a shipwreck visible above the surface! Just a few miles from the coast of Bimini in the Bahamas, the haunting silhouette of the S.S. Sapona emerges from the water. You can easily set sail to this tropical paradise and indulge in some snorkeling or diving among the remains of its rusting structure. 

Constructed during World War I, it ran aground following a hurricane. Today, it serves as a sanctuary for tropical fish and a beloved spot for snorkeling and diving. Looking for a more thrilling adventure? Try a night dive for a chance to encounter nocturnal sea creatures like octopuses!

Barbados: The Berwyn

Barbados offers thrilling underwater explorations, boasting one of the healthiest reef ecosystems in the Caribbean. The abundance of shipwrecks adds to the excitement of snorkeling and diving adventures.

The Berwyn is a tugboat that sought refuge near Bridgetown during World War I after an attack, but it was mysteriously sunk by its own crew shortly thereafter. Whatever the motive (perhaps they were tempted to stay for the stunning beaches?), this coral-encrusted wreck remains in remarkable condition, proudly resting on the ocean floor.   

St. Thomas: Numerous

Did you know that St. Thomas is home to more shipwrecks than any other U.S. Virgin Island? Each wreck presents its own unique charm, such as the WIT Concrete, which serves as a refuge for lobsters, nurse sharks, and southern stingrays resting on its deck.

Then there’s the Miss Opportunity, which lies on its side, allowing adventurous divers to navigate between its decks—if they dare!

Grand Cayman: The MV Captain Keith Tibbetts

With over 350 dive sites, the Cayman Islands are home to a remarkable variety of sunken vessels, including US submarines and ships from the UK, making it an exciting destination for underwater exploration.

One of the most sought-after dive spots is the MV Captain Keith Tibbetts, a 330-foot frigate from the Soviet Union. Its turret guns still protrude from the submerged deck, providing an eerie yet captivating atmosphere for divers.

Roatan, Honduras: Odyssey

The Odyssey, a 300-foot shipwreck, was purposefully sunk in 2002 off the coast of Roatan after suffering fire damage. Designed as a dive site, it features cut-out openings on its sides for easy exploration by divers!

Being one of the largest diving locations in the Caribbean, surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, it's unlikely you'll be able to explore it all in just one visit!