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Cistern Point: A Snorkeler's Paradise

Explore the underwater wonders of Cistern Point, a vibrant snorkeling and diving site off Cooper Island in the British Virgin Islands.

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Cistern Point, off the coast of Cooper Island in the British Virgin Islands, is a renowned snorkeling and diving destination. Its clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a must-visit for underwater enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Cistern Point

  • VG

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best visibility for snorkeling.
  • Bring an underwater camera to capture the colorful marine life and coral formations.
  • Check the weather conditions before heading out, as the visibility can be affected by rough seas.
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Getting There

  • Boat

    Cistern Point is best accessed by boat from Cooper Island Beach Club. Dinghy dockage is available at the jetties flanking the Cooper Island Beach Club. From there, it's a short ride to the snorkeling site. There are moorings available for a fee. Check with your boat operator for specific drop-off and pick-up arrangements.

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Discover more about Cistern Point

Cistern Point, located south of Manchioneel Bay on Cooper Island, is a stunning snorkeling and diving site in the British Virgin Islands. The point is marked by a large rock rising out of the water, signaling a vibrant coral reef system beneath the surface. The underwater topography includes craters, ledges, and rocky formations that provide shelter for a diverse array of marine life. The clear, shallow waters around Cistern Point teem with tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasional reef sharks. Snorkelers can explore colorful coral gardens and encounter species such as queen angelfish, blue tangs, damselfish, snappers, grunts, and sergeant majors. Anemones, silvery fry, tarpon, southern stingrays, moray eels, and nurse sharks can also be spotted. During late spring and early summer, schools of tiny silvery fry congregate in the shallows, attracting larger tarpon. Cistern Point is accessible by boat, a short dinghy ride from the mooring field at Cooper Island Beach Club. Its sheltered location provides calm and clear waters, ideal for snorkeling. While other dive sites like RMS Rhone and Painted Walls may draw larger crowds, Cistern Point offers a more private experience for those seeking a tranquil underwater adventure.

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