Diving on the Caribbean Explorer II
Let’s face it—you’re here to dive, so that’s where we’ll begin our review.
Water temperatures in this part of the Caribbean range from 76 F (24 C) in the winter to 85 F (29 C) in the summer. Visibility is usually 80 to 100 feet (24 to 30 m), with the greatest visibility off Saba and in protected areas, and lesser visibility near major ports. Currents are generally minimal, with the exception of some of the Saba sites.
Divers should be prepared for a giant stride entry off the back or side of the boat. Optional rental gear is available, including nitrox if you are certified. Dive courses are offered onboard, including Solo Diver Certification (SDI), and nitrox. You should contact the boat during your booking to confirm what courses are available and for updated prices.
The area is suitable for diving year-round, however, potential guests should take hurricane season into consideration when selecting dates. We recommend looking at your options one year in advance if you want the best price.
Overall, this trip is suitable for beginning divers, and the variety of dive sites appeals to divers of all levels. Whether you love intriguing wrecks, colorful reefs, unique seagrass beds, or dramatic walls, you are sure to see something new.
Shallow wrecks and coral reefs abound in St. Kitts and St. Maarten, with Caribbean reef sharks and turtles making common appearances. In addition to reefs, Saba is known for deep pinnacles like Eye of the Needle, steep drop-offs, and underwater hot springs that are exceptional for night dives.
During winter months, divers can hear (and occasionally see) whales underwater, and topside breach sightings are practically guaranteed.
Highlights:
- Dive site variety
- Diverse and bountiful marine life
- Big Caribbean reef sharks
Onboard the Caribbean Explorer II
Built in 1978 and recommissioned in 1999, this boat may not have all the bells and whistles of other liveaboards, but is well-designed with essentials for a comfortable and memorable voyage.
The 115-foot (35 m) vessel features a sun deck with loungers and a semi-enclosed area with an entertainment center, wet bar, and tables with seating. Guests can also peruse the unique “boat-ique” store.
Featuring nine staterooms with capacity for 18 passengers, the Caribbean Explorer II accommodates multiple needs. Couples? Check. Families? Check. Friends or solo travelers? Check-check! A variety of configurations feature queen beds, double beds, multiple twin beds, or queen/double-twin bunk beds for customized comfort. All rooms have private bathrooms and thoughtful, functional décor.
A separate vanity outside the bathroom in each room ensures convenience for everyone. Note that staterooms may not have individual temperature controls, so bring layers to ensure maximum coziness.
The dive deck houses individual gear lockers, a camera table with a low-pressure hose, recharging stations, separate freshwater rinses for dive equipment and cameras, and separate under-bench cubbies to stay organized. In addition to the usual tank racks and air stations, there’s also a wetsuit hanging area, two freshwater showers, a bathroom, and a drinking fountain.
A combined galley and lounge offer an entertainment center with a television and bookcase to relax after a day of diving. Grab a marine ID book and read up on that colorful shrimp you saw while you relax on one of the padded benches or chairs that wrap around the space and multi-purpose tables.
Unlimited drinks are available during your time onboard, including alcohol when you’re done diving for the day. The spacious top sundeck is stocked with lounge chairs to help you rest and warm up between dives, or take in the view while you relax.
In a world where connectivity is ever-more important, whether for social media posts or working remotely, the Caribbean Explorer II does not have Wi-Fi on board. A satellite phone is available, with additional charges for incoming and outgoing calls. If your mobile phone provider covers the area, you will be able to connect that way.
Highlights:
- Large sundeck with loungers
- Bathroom and two freshwater showers on dive deck
- Separate gear rinse for cameras
- Dive deck storage lockers
Dining on the Caribbean Explorer II
Fuel your dives with a warm breakfast, offered from 7 to 8 a.m. Prefer to sleep in? Cold fare is available after 8 a.m. Morning meals feature eggs, bacon, breads, pastries and fruit. Lunch offerings include soup, sandwiches, burgers, pasta, salad, or quiche. Dinner varies in protein options, with vegetables, rice, or pasta.
Depending on available ingredients, the chef will include local fusion with familiar favorites. Snacks are offered after dives, including hot cocoa après night diving. Unlimited drinks are available during your time onboard, including alcohol when you’re done diving for the day.
- Blend of local and familiar flavors
- Many snack breaks
- Unlimited drinks (including spirits, beer, and wine after diving)
