diving/snorkelling
diving
Providenciales is cited by dive experts as offering some of the world's best diving because of a barrier reef that runs the full length of the island’s 27km north-east coast.
The fully equipped Dive Pavilion at Amanyara is operated by Ocean Vibes. Their professional team of dive masters and instructors offer a range of dive courses from introduction to scuba diving, through to advanced and specialty courses.
Located directly in front of the resort, approximately 500m from the beach, are the remarkable coral reef walls of the Northwest Point Marine National Park. An eight kilometre long fringing reef system that runs parallel to the coastline, it is dominated by Boulder Star coral, Elkhorn coral and gorgonians of various species that are home to schooling fish, turtles, spotted eagle rays and much more. The reef supports a characteristic fish population that includes groupers, snappers, surgeonfish, butterfly fish, angelfish and jacks. A number of shark species including the scalloped hammerhead, reef shark and lemon shark have been sighted. An aggregation spawning site for the Nassau grouper has also been recorded, providing a critical area for the survival of this endangered fish. Also seen in this area are bottlenose dolphins and spotted dolphins. Humpback whales pass through during during their winter migration.
All dive sites in Northwest Point Marine National Park are, weather permitting, three to eight minutes’ boat ride from Amanyara’s beach. In slightly rougher water conditions, guests will be driven to a south side dock approximately 40 minutes away to board the dive boat. Alternative dive sites include West Caicos, Frech Cay and Sandbore Channel.
snorkelling
Snorkelling can be enjoyed just off the beach at Amanyara. The sandy bottom declines gradually until the reef wall falls away dramatically with its sheer vertical drop to 2,100m. Rock formations surrounding the resort are home to many small fish even in the shallow waters. Snorkelling equipment is available with tuition for novices. A complimentary snorkelling trip departs daily from the beach (weather permitting).