Liveaboard diving in
Riu Garden
Riu Garden has several options available for divers of all levels of experience since it is a quite shallow dive site and snorkeling area, situated close to the shore. The reef here is formed by staghorn, brain and star corals that are full of various marine life. The typical flora and fauna here are presented by grunts, eels, snappers, parrotfish, lionfish, starfish, lobsters, crabs, shrimp, tobaccofish and many more. The larger species are barracudas, reef sharks, sting rays and morays. The sea floor is full of sponges of different colors, fragile purple fans, anemones, gorgonians and algae. The currents range between mild and moderate.
When To Go Diving
Riu Garden is a beautiful dive site located in the north-west of Jamaica close to Montego Bay. Diving here is possible throughout the year. High water and air temperatures allow comfortable diving at all seasons with the experience being the best in July, August and September. Divers should, however, keep in mind that these months might also fall within the hurricane season. The average water temperature stays around 26C/78F-28C/82F, while the air temperature ranges between 26C/79F and 29C/84F. The water visibility is good throughout the year and stays within 51ft/16m-60ft/18m range.