Ouanalao Dive

Located in Gustavia, Ouanalao Dive operates in the heart of the Saint-Barthélemy marine reserve. The local underwater topography is defined by a volcanic landscape, offering a diverse range of environments from shallow reef flats to deep canyons and rocky pinnacles.

Because much of the area is protected, the marine ecosystems have benefited from decades of preservation. This results in a high density of life across varied sites, including underwater arches, tunnels, and submerged caves that are characteristic of the island's coastline.

The centre is run by a professional team of three instructors, providing a personalised approach to both training and exploration. They are multi-certified, offering courses through SSI, PADI, and the French FFESSM/CMAS systems, making them a versatile choice for divers from different certification backgrounds.

With over 20 years of experience in the region, the team is deeply integrated into the local diving community. They also maintain an environmental commitment through their involvement with the Ouanalao reef association, ensuring that diving activities respect the local marine reserve.

Divers can complete a full range of certifications at the centre. This includes entry-level programmes such as Discover Scuba Diving and the standard Open Water Diver courses, moving through to advanced levels like the Advanced Open Water Diver.

The centre is equipped to teach via SSI, PADI, and FFESSM/CMAS curricula, ensuring that whether you are a recreational diver or looking for specific agency certifications, your training is handled by qualified instructors.

The centre provides 12L cylinders to allow for longer bottom times during excursions. For those looking for more than just scuba diving, they also offer nautical equipment hire including sea kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

For those wishing to explore the Grand Cul de Sac lagoon, snorkeling equipment is available. The centre also partners with the local Ti’ Corail restaurant to provide snacks for divers between outings.

The marine life at Saint-Barthélemy is remarkably diverse due to the protected status of the surrounding reefs. On the deeper walls and pinnacles, you can encounter eagle rays, southern stingrays, and large tarpons. The rocky areas and canyons are frequently visited by turtles and various species of sharks, including nurse sharks, grey sharks, and sleeper sharks.

Macro life and crustaceans are abundant throughout the sites. You will find large numbers of spiny lobsters tucked into crevices, alongside various tropical fish and boxfish.

For those interested in larger predators, the area offers sightings of hammerhead sharks and tiger sharks, particularly around the more exposed rocky sites like Roche Roube. Barracudas are also commonly seen patrolling the reefs.

The diving environment is characterised by varied topography, including canyons and pinnacles. Some sites, such as the Colombier wall, are subject to moderate currents, which provide excellent opportunities for drift diving.

While most of the island is accessible year-round, the centre notes that September is a month to avoid for diving activities. The volcanic landscape creates a variety of habitats, from calm lagoon areas to more exposed offshore sites.