Cistern Point: A Snorkeler's Delight

Cistern Point, situated on the southern end of Manchioneel Bay off Cooper Island, is a premier destination for snorkelers and divers in the British Virgin Islands. The rocky point is teeming with marine life and boasts stunning coral formations. The waters are known for their clarity and calm conditions, making it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced snorkelers.The underwater topography features a series of shallow craters and ledges, providing diverse habitats for a variety of marine species. Snorkelers can expect to see schools of colorful fish, including queen angelfish, blue tangs, sergeant majors, and goatfish. Other commonly spotted marine life includes spot shrimps, damselfish, snappers, grunts, anemones, and the occasional sea turtle. During the late spring and early summer, schools of tiny silvery fry attract larger predators like tarpon.Cistern Point gets its name from the large cistern-like holes in the reef. The site is relatively shallow, ranging from 20 to 60 feet, making it accessible for divers of all levels. The vibrant coral reef system is home to a variety of corals and sea fans, adding to the underwater spectacle. The site is also known for its active cleaning stations, where smaller fish help keep larger fish free of parasites.