Cane Bay Dive Shop

Located in Frederiksted, Cane Bay Dive Shop is a cornerstone of the diving scene in the US Virgin Islands. Since its founding in 1990, the centre has grown from a local passion for the Cane Bay Wall into a comprehensive PADI 5 Star IDC facility. Owners Hal and Suzanne Rosbach have been at the helm since 1996, ensuring a consistent, locally-run operation.

The shop is situated directly opposite the Frederiksted Pier, providing easy access to some of the island's most famous dive sites. From the steep drop-offs of the wall to the historic wrecks of Butlers Bay, the centre offers a diverse range of environments for every level of experience.

As a PADI 5 Star IDC, the centre is equipped to handle everything from initial Discover Scuba Diving sessions to professional instructor training. The teaching philosophy focuses on small class sizes and individualised coaching, ensuring that your skills are honed with precision.

The team is experienced in a wide array of specialities and certifications. They provide instruction in English and are well-versed in the local waters, offering expertise that spans over three decades of local diving.

The course catalogue is extensive, covering the full spectrum of PADI certifications. Beginners can start with Discover Scuba Diving or Open Water Diver, while more experienced divers can progress through Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and Divemaster.

For those looking to specialise, the centre offers numerous PADI specialties, including Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, Night Diver, and Peak Performance Buoyancy. They also provide professional training for those pursuing an instructor career, as well as courses in Coral Reef Conservation and Fish Identification.

The IBIS is a 36-foot Newton boat, described as one of the most comfortable vessels for diving in St. Croix. It is used for daily excursions to the Frederiksted Pier, the offshore reefs, and the deep wall sites.

On board, you can expect a relaxed atmosphere with homemade snacks, including cookies and fresh pineapple. The boat is configured to facilitate comfortable trips, whether you are heading out for a morning of wreck diving or a night dive.

The shop provides a full range of rental equipment for those not travelling with their own kit. This includes regulators, BCDs, and wetsuits, as well as masks, snorkels, and fins for those looking for basic snorkeling gear.

Nitrox is available for divers looking to extend their bottom time. The centre also maintains oxygen safety equipment on-site to ensure professional standards of diver safety.

The wall and reef sites are characterised by a rich tapestry of fixed life. You will encounter colossal sponges and undulating sea fans that cover the steep drop-offs of the Cane Bay Wall.

In the water column and around the reefs, look for large pelagics and common residents such as great barracuda, sharks, and various rays. Sea turtles are also frequently spotted navigating the reef flats and wrecks.

Macro life and smaller inhabitants include moray eels and various species of fish that frequent the crevices of the pier and the wrecks. The biodiversity of the area ensures that there is always something to observe, from large groupers to smaller reef creatures.

Diving in St. Croix is possible year-round. The centre operates daily, providing access to both boat-based and shore-based diving depending on the site and the conditions of the day.