The United States Virgin Islands

Strictly protected throughout the islands, sea turtles are a constant presence. They are frequently seen grazing in the seagrass beds or resting on the healthy reefs of St. John.

Green and Hawksbill Turtles

Majestic eagle rays are a signature sight, often seen gliding gracefully in small groups along the vertical walls of St. Croix and the outer reefs of St. Thomas.

Spotted Eagle Rays

The Frederiksted Pier is a world-renowned haven for macro life; sharp-eyed guides can find a huge variety of colorful seahorses and camouflaged frogfish.

Seahorses and Frogfish

Large stingrays are commonly found resting in the sandy plains near the wreck sites or gliding gracefully across the shallow coral gardens.

Southern Stingrays

The United States Virgin Islands (USVI) are an unincorporated territory of the United States that offers a diverse and accessible scuba diving experience in the heart of the Lesser Antilles. Comprising three main islands—St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John—along with dozens of smaller cays, the USVI provides a unique blend of Caribbean beauty and American convenience. The diving here is characterized by a high density of shipwrecks, dramatic vertical walls, and vibrant coral reefs protected within the Virgin Islands National Park. St. Croix is home to the legendary 'Cane Bay Wall,' where the reef drops from just 40 feet into the 13,000-foot-deep Virgin Islands Basin, and the iconic Frederiksted Pier, world-renowned for its macro life and night diving. St. Thomas and St. John are famous for their labyrinthine rock formations, such as 'The Tunnels' off Thatch Cay, and a series of historic and purpose-sunk wrecks like the 'WIT Shoal II.' The water is exceptionally clear, with horizontal visibility often exceeding 30 meters, and the marine life is characterized by its high density of sea turtles, rays, and large schools of reef fish. With a highly professional diving industry that follows US safety standards and no passport required for US citizens, the United States Virgin Islands provide a serene and effortless underwater sanctuary for divers of all experience levels.

The United States Virgin Islands are primarily a land-based diving destination, with a high concentration of professional dive centers located in Charlotte Amalie, Christiansted, and Cruz Bay. However, the archipelago is a popular start or end point for regional liveaboards transiting the northern Leeward Islands. These vessels typically operate itineraries between the USVI, BVI, and Saint Martin, often including the spectacular walls of St. Croix as a highlight. For those who prefer a land-based stay, the islands' dive centers offer daily boat excursions that cover the main National Park sites and the iconic wrecks. Diving from a land-based center allows for a perfect blend of underwater exploration and enjoying the islands' world-class beaches and hiking trails.

The Westin Beach Resort & Spa at Frenchman's Reef

The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort

Gallows Point Resort

Internal transport in the USVI is efficient and varied. Car rentals are the most popular choice for divers on St. Thomas and St. Croix, providing the flexibility to explore the remote trailheads and dive shops. Driving is on the left side of the road, and the terrain can be very steep and winding. St. John is primarily accessed via a frequent and reliable car and passenger ferry from Red Hook, St. Thomas. Within the islands, 'safari' buses (open-air trucks) provide an affordable and colorful way to get around on fixed routes. Taxis are plentiful but operate on fixed government rates that can be relatively expensive. Private water taxis and charter boats are also available for inter-island travel.

Liveaboard Diving in The United States Virgin Islands

Experience Overview

Featured Operators

Remote Reach

Booking Advice

Where to Stay in The United States Virgin Islands