Wreck of the Rhone

The Wreck of the RMS Rhone is the preeminent dive site in the British Virgin Islands and one of its most visited attractions. The 310-foot twin-masted steamer, which sank during a ferocious hurricane in 1867, lies in three sections west of Salt Island and has beckoned underwater explorers for decades. In 1977 it was the primary filming location for the film The Deep, starring Nick Nolte and Jacqueline Bisset.

Lying in between 65 and 80 feet of water, the bow is the deepest, largest, and most intact section of the Rhone. Here divers can enter the interior of the vessel and will find the mast and crow’s nest still attached to the ship. The midsection, lying in about 60 feet of water, is dominated by a series of support beams—all that remains of the ship’s deck. The stern, the shallowest part of the wreck, can be explored by snorkelers as well as divers. It features the ship’s large rudder and 15-foot propeller.

Divers should not try to explore the whole wreck in one dive. It is too deep, and there is too much to see. The best way to explore the ship is to start with a dive on the deepest section, the bow, and follow that with another dive on the stern and midsection. If you really want to get to know this wreck, you will need to plan more than two dives, however, including one at night, when it comes alive with unusual and colorful sea life.

Visibility around the wreck is usually good—between 60 and 100 feet. The bow and midsection are sometimes susceptible to currents. For ease and safety, always go diving with a local dive company, since staff will be familiar with local conditions and dangers.

Local dive boats visit the Rhone every day of the year. In fact, many days it seems like a whole fleet make the journey. For the best experience, choose a dive boat that specializes in small groups and avoid the busiest times, 9 a.m.–noon and 2–4 p.m.