St. Eustatius
This quiet, laid back island is untouched by tourism with rich history, simplicity, friendly people and pristine nature, called Statia by the locals. The island is known for their blue beads that were given to slaves by the Dutch as payment in the 17th century. After emancipation in 1863, it has been said that the slaves threw the beads in the air and over the cliffs into the sea to celebrate. These beads are still found on the island today, and local legend says that you do not find the blue beads, the blue beads find you. If you do happen to find one of these tiny treasures the legend also says that you will return to the island again and again. Because mass tourism has not reached Statia yet the waters are immaculate and diverse, you can dive at an underwater archeological site, walls, wrecks, macro sites, lava flows, boulder slides and rock outcroppings all located in a protected marine park twice the size of the island itself. Known for the plethora of Flying Gurnards, Turtles and Stingrays, and if you’re lucky you may spot an Eagle Ray, Humpback whale or Caribbean Reef Shark. Statia is for the traveler that wants to forget about time and just go with the flow on this laid back, charming island.
dive and tour
St. Eustatius
Scubaqua Dive Center
The reefs surrounding St. Eustatius are flourishing in a protected marine park. Underwater you will experience what much of the Caribbean must have looked like many years ago. Most of the 36 official dive sites are located in the two reserves which cover a large part of the northern and southwestern waters. The eye-catching volcano “the Quill” dominates the island with its impressive crater and is responsible for the huge amount of lava flows and blocks under the surface. These old labyrinths of lava are now fully overgrown with coral and sponges. Combine these reefs with a numerous of historical dive sites and more recently sunk wrecks and you got yourself a divers paradise!
price $$
exploreLodging
St. Eustatius
Old Gin House
The Old Gin House hotel is a boutique historical waterfront hotel, located just a few steps away from Scubaqua Dive Center. The hotel has a beautiful restored historical bar, ocean terrace, lobby and pool. The pool with towel service is located in the garden next to the garden view rooms. All rooms are furnished with large king size mahogany beds, colonial style furniture and equipped with free WiFi and air conditioning and cable TV. Full American Breakfast is included at the seaside restaurant with a killer view. The chef prepares fresh fish, Caribbean lobsters and of course the famous chicken and ribs. Cocktails and a fully stocked bar and wine cellar are available.
price $$
exploreLive Aboard
St. Eustatius