

Best for beginner divers, 9m, boat entry, mild current.
Frenchmen's Reef is a marine site located within the Man of War Shoal Marine Park in Sint Maarten. The reef maintains a consistent depth of 9 metres, making it a suitable location for beginner divers. Visibility at the site ranges from 10 to 30 metres. Access is by boat only, and divers should be prepared for mild currents that can vary in speed. When navigating the reef structure, exercise caution regarding hand and fin placement to avoid contact with sharp coral and sea urchins. Always monitor your position relative to the boat throughout the 45-minute dive duration.
18.01780, -63.09500
Watch where you place your hands and fins around the reef structure, as sea urchins and sharp coral are present at this depth and easy to brush against. Your operator can advise on current jellyfish and lionfish activity before you enter the water.
located just off the coast of Philipsburg
Recorded at this site
Depth
9m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Dec
Yes, the site is considered suitable for beginner divers due to its consistent 9-metre depth and generally mild currents.
The site maintains a consistent depth of 9 metres.
Frenchmen's Reef is accessible by boat only; you must arrange your trip through a local operator.
Divers should watch for jellyfish, lionfish, sea urchins, and sharp coral. Additionally, be aware of currents and monitor your position relative to the boat.
Diving at Frenchmen's Reef in Philipsburg requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Frenchmen's Reef in Philipsburg. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C.
The best months to visit Frenchmen's Reef in Philipsburg are January, February, March, April, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Frenchmen's Reef in Philipsburg typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Frenchmen's Reef in Philipsburg typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.