Sub-Aquatic Sports & Service - BC, MI

: St. Eustasius

Date: Nov 3 - 10, 2012

James Michener’s novel, Caribbean, would never be described as a quick read, but it is a fascinating account of 17th century history of the West Indies. The book comes alive for anyone who visits St. Eustatius, a small 11 square mile island that was once an epicenter of the trade business during the era of sugar cane crops, rum running, pirates and slavery.

One can easily imagine tall ships anchored offshore where old building foundations now lay in ruin. Grab a moped to tour a dozen forts and outposts, explore old cemeteries and visit the restored old town for a unique view of history. Then grab your hiking shoes and climb the trails to two volcanoes that now house rainforest flora and fauna.

Most importantly, grab your fins and dive the reefs and wrecks of the island. Statia boasts 7 distinct eco-systems all with different structures and marine life. Coral encrusted lava flows emanate from the island’s volcanoes creating figure-like reefs. Walls and coral buttresses form canyons that start at 80ft and slope into the deep abyss. Artificial reefs, made by sinking modern ships, now are popular hangouts for horse eyed jacks, barracudas, sting rays, scads and blue runners.

Older historical shipwrecks are either buried under sand or have long since decayed away. However, ballast stones and anchors can still be found. Photographers will enjoy the macro opportunities. A popular site called Blue Bead Hole is a great place to find manta shrimp and blue beads. Blue beads or ‘trading beads’ were made in the early 1700's for trade with indigenous people/slaves around the world. They are a well known part of Statia's history, and some can be found in the sand at about 60ft in the middle of the harbor. While some divers look for macro critters, others look for beads. Locals say that once you find a bead you will always come back to Statia. It must be true; Kim found a bead last trip and can’t wait to return in November.

COST: $1095/person plus airfare.
Airfare for this trip should be available mid December 2011.

Package Includes:

7 nights accommodations in a garden view room based on double occupancy

10 boat dives

Airport transfers

Welcome cocktail

Full breakfast

1 seafood dinner at the Old Gin House (drinks not included)

Tanks and weights

1 night shore dive

1 free snorkel dive (non-dive day)

7 Night hotel taxes, payable on island only

SASS group leader and t-shirt

: Documentation:
You MUST HAVE A PASSPORT TO TRAVEL TO St. Eustasius.

YOUR PASSPORT MUST be valid for at least 6 months beyond travel.

Flight Schedule: TBD