Diving Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe has over 150 miles of coastline, and although not all of it offers good diving, the extent of the coastline means that there are several discrete diving areas. Basse Terre has the most diving and the largest number of operators. The west coast of Basse Terre is steep sided and almost every headland is a possible good dive.
Pigeon Island is the site of the Cousteau Marine Park. Despite its diving popularity, the marine life is in good condition. All the sites are buoyed and this has obviously contributed greatly to the preservation of the reefs. There are also two wrecks near Pigeon Island.
Grand Cul de Sac Marin has several miles of reef that developed in the sheltered waters in the north between the two sides of Guadeloupe. Much of the area has been declared a marine park and access is restricted.
Iles des Saintes has a full complement of diving, which is quite separate from the rest of Guadeloupe’s sites. One of Guadeloupe’s most spectacular dive sites is Sec Pate north of Iles des Saintes.
Best time to dive
February through June because this is the drier time of the year, but it’s also when more tourists visit the area.
Visibility
Visibility can be up to 100 feet.
Water temperatures
The water temperature ranges from 78°F to 84°F.
Weather and climate
The temperature is pleasant throughout the year. The air temperature varies between 72°F in winter and 90°F in summer. Average humidity is 77%. There are two “seasons”: a dry season between February and June (with some showers especially in the mountains) and a rainy season from July to January. There are occasional hurricanes in September and October. Trade winds make the climate pleasant year-round.
Language
French and Creole
Passport/Visa requirements
French citizens can enter with a valid passport or government-issued ID card. Citizens of all other nations need a valid passport. All travelers should have a round-trip or onward ticket.
Currency
Euro – Get exchange rates at http://www.xe.com/ucc/
Electrical current
220/240 volts at 50 cycles. Adaptors or transformers are necessary for North American appliances.
Capital
Pointe-à-Pitre
General information
Guadeloupe is located in the Lesser Antilles and is 700 square miles in size. Guadeloupe proper comprises twin islands divided by a narrow mangrove channel, the Rivière Salée. The islands are volcanic in origin. Guadeloupe has been a French possession since 1635. The island of Saint Martin is shared with the Netherlands; its southern portion is named Saint Maarten and is part of the Netherlands Antilles and its northern portion is named Saint-Martin and is part of Guadeloupe.
Guadeloupe is the center of the Caribbean’s Creole culture, boasting a spirited blend of French and African influences. As well known for its sugar and rum as for its beaches and resorts, the archipelago offers an interesting mix of modern cities, rural hamlets, rainforests and secluded beaches.
Map
Get a map of Guadeloupe from WorldAtlas.com.