Dominica

Most diving on Dominica takes place off the island's southwestern corner between Roseau and Scotts Head, the lip of a sunken volcano. This produces a varied underwater topography, from the bubbling volcanic vents at Champagne to the walls near Soufrière to pinnacles at Danglebens. Boat rides to these sites take no more than 15 to 30 minutes from dive operations around Roseau. While really big fish and pelagics are virtually nonexistent, there are enough critters to keep you thumbing through a reef ID book for days. You have a decent chance of seeing a whale or two here, including sperm, pilots and false orcas.

Dive conditions

Like most islands in the region, runoff degrades visibility to just under 100 feet year-round, though some sites can experience bouts of 100-plus. Water temps range from 78F in winter to 83F in summer.

Topside at a glance

Despite its popularity among divers, the diversity above water may be Dominica's strongest suit. Many divers trade afternoon tanks for backpacks, scrambling up mossy rocks to swim in cool, clean waterfalls. The island has a certain raw beauty, with banana plantations and fields of vanilla, limes and coconuts.

By the numbers

Area - 290 square miles, among the largest of the Lesser Antilles.
Population - 70,000.
Currency - Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$). EC$2.70 is equivalent to US$1.
Departure tax - EC$30.

Phone: 630-941-0355 · FAX 630-359-4024
e-mail: lisa@changeofscene.com