Rhone National Maritime Park & RMS Rhone Shipwreck Dives

The Rhone National Maritime Park is a protected marine area located in the British Virgin Islands that is home to the RMS Rhone shipwreck, one of the most famous dive sites in the Caribbean. The park was established in 1980 to protect the shipwreck and the surrounding marine environment and has since become a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports.

The RMS Rhone was a royal mail steamship that was built in 1865 and was one of the most advanced and luxurious ships of its time. The ship was used to transport mail and passengers between England and the Caribbean and was known for its speed and comfort. In 1867, the RMS Rhone was sailing from St. Thomas to England when it was hit by a powerful hurricane and sank off the coast of Salt Island in the British Virgin Islands.

The shipwreck of the RMS Rhone has become a popular dive site due to the clarity of the water and the well-preserved condition of the ship. The ship lies in two main sections, with the bow section located in shallower water and the stern section in deeper water. The bow section is home to a variety of marine life, including schools of colorful fish and coral reefs. The stern section is more intact and is home to a number of artifacts, including the ship’s boilers and engines.

Divers can explore the shipwreck of the RMS Rhone and learn about its history through guided tours and dive programs offered by local dive operators. The Rhone National Maritime Park also offers a variety of other diving and snorkeling sites, including the wreck of the HMS Rhone, a British warship that sank in the same area as the RMS Rhone.

In addition to its diving and snorkeling opportunities, the Rhone National Maritime Park is also home to a variety of other marine life and ecosystems, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. These habitats provide vital habitat and support for a variety of marine species, including fish, sea turtles, and a variety of birds.

The Rhone National Maritime Park is managed by the British Virgin Islands National Parks Trust, which works to protect the park’s natural resources and provide educational and recreational opportunities for visitors. The park is open to the public and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Overall, the Rhone National Maritime Park is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors. Whether you’re a diver, snorkeler, or just looking to explore the beauty of the Caribbean, the Rhone National Maritime Park is a must-visit destination in the British Virgin Islands.

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