

Best for beginner divers, 1-10m, boat entry.
Johnson's Reef is a shallow marine site located 805 metres offshore from Saint John. With depths ranging from 1 to 10 metres and an average of 6 metres, it is suitable for beginners. Divers and snorkellers can observe species including French Angelfish, Spotted Moray, Striped Parrotfish, Queen Parrotfish, Foureye Butterfly Fish, Whiptail Stingray, Reef Squid, French Grunt, Sea Bass, Yellowtail Snapper, Lizardfish, hard coral, and snails. Visibility typically spans 10 to 30 metres. Access is by boat only. Hazards include boat traffic, jellyfish, rip currents, sea urchins, sharp coral, surf, and surge. Always monitor local surge and swell conditions and use a surface marker buoy.
18.36088, -64.77133
Access is by boat only, so arrange a reliable charter before you go and confirm current pick-up and drop-off points with your operator. Watch for boat traffic on the surface at all times, keep your surface marker buoy ready, and take care entering and exiting over the reef as there can be surf, surge, and sharp coral near the surface.
Access is provided via custom dive boats departing from Cruz Bay, St. John.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 10m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-30°C
Current
None
Common sightings include Striped Parrotfish and French Grunt. You may also encounter French Angelfish, Spotted Moray, Queen Parrotfish, Foureye Butterfly Fish, Whiptail Stingray, Reef Squid, Sea Bass, Yellowtail Snapper, Lizardfish, hard coral, and snails.
Yes, the shallow depths of 1 to 10 metres make this an approachable site for beginner divers and snorkellers.
The site ranges from 1 to 10 metres in depth, with an average depth of 6 metres.
Johnson's Reef is accessible by boat only. You must arrange a charter to reach the site.
Yes, the shallow reef structure is suitable for both diving and snorkelling.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Johnson's Reef in Cruz Bay. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C.
Divers at Johnson's Reef in Cruz Bay should be aware of jellyfish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Visibility at Johnson's Reef in Cruz Bay typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.