Snorkel· Sint Eustatius (Statia)· Leeward Islands
Lower Town Underwater Ruins (Oranje Bay)
17° 28.8′ N · 62° 59.3′ W · approximate
Snorkel straight off Lower Town over the scattered walls and debris of 18th-century waterfront buildings that slid into the sea when Statia was 'the Golden Rock' trading hub - history in 2-6 m of water.
Practical
Approximate: placed just off the Lower Town waterfront (OpenStreetMap Lower Town 17.47891,-62.98637); the ruins lie along the shoreline of Oranje Bay. Wikipedia notes parts of the bay-side 18th-century buildings were swept into the sea and make snorkelling in the bay interesting. Stay well clear of the pier and dinghy/ferry traffic. No taking of artefacts - the bay is within the St Eustatius National Marine Park; no gloves, no touching (STENAPA). This is outside the two marine reserves, so unguided snorkelling is allowed here; snorkelling inside the reserves requires a dive-shop guide. Visibility drops after northerly swell.
Best for
An easy history snorkel from the boat
Nearby
Place data includes © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).