Anguilla, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches also has a rich history in scuba diving that spans decades. From its early pioneers to today’s modern dive operators, the island has grown into one of the premier diving destinations in the Caribbean. Let’s explore Anguilla’s journey as a diving haven, as it relates to my personal journey and how these pionners help shape my love of Anguilla waters.
Tamarain Watersports (1984–2000)
Scuba diving in Anguilla began in 1984 when Iain Grummitt, a meticulous Scotsman, and his partner Thomas Peabody launched Tamarain Watersports, the island’s first PADI 5-star dive center. Known for its professional instruction and guided dive tours, Tamarain quickly became the go-to center for discovering Anguilla’s vibrant coral reefs and thriving marine life. One of their greatest contributions was pioneering the island’s wreck diving scene by sinking all seven artificial wrecks that divers explore today.
My journey with Tamarain began in 1991 when I started as a Divemaster before becoming an instructor. Tamarain not only shaped my career but also laid the foundation for Anguilla’s dive industry. When Iain sold his share to Peter Burling in the mid-1990s, the business was renamed The Dive Shop and continued with the same high standards.
Although it closed in 2000, Tamarain Watersports is forever credited with transforming Anguilla into a serious diving destination.
Shoal Bay Scuba & Watersports (1997–2004)
Founded in 1997 by Michel Faligant, Shoal Bay Scuba & Watersports made a significant impact on Anguilla’s dive industry. I had the privilege of working closely with Michel, gaining valuable experience during my time there. Shoal Bay Scuba played an essential role in promoting the island’s most famous wreck dive, El Buen Consejo, a Spanish galleon that sank in 1772. Although Shoal Bay Scuba closed in 2004, its legacy in shaping dive tourism around the island’s reefs and wrecks remains.
Shoal Bay Scuba ( Karma Charters) Limited - Known as the SCUBA SHACK (2004–Present)
In 2004, I founded The Scuba Shack, bringing with me decades of experience and a deep passion for Anguilla’s marine environment. Now, located at Roy’s Bayside Grill in Sandy Ground, We offer everything from reef and wreck dives to snorkeling trips and PADI certification and a full range of courses. With a strong focus on safety and personalized service, we’ve earned recognition as top-rated dive operator, receiving TripAdvisor awards in both 2023 and 2024.
My goal, has always been to offer more than just a dive—it's about creating a family of divers who share a love for Anguilla’s underwater world.and join us on any of the 20 reef sites, 7 wrecks and the 5 stunning wall dives off Scrub and Dog Island.
Anguilla’s Underwater Future Today is emerging as a premier diving destination in the Caribbean. Thanks to conservation efforts and a focus by the Government of Anguilla, we’re seeing growing populations of Southern stingrays, Turtles, and a diverse array of marine life. Anguilla and its operators, provide safe, enjoyable dive experiences across the island’s famous wrecks like The Oosterdiep, MV Sarah, The Commerce, and more.
My deep love for Anguilla has only grown stronger over the past 30 years, making this island not just my home, but also the place closest to my heart. Whether you’re exploring a vibrant reef, diving a wreck, or venturing out to offshore walls, you’ll experience firsthand the underwater wonders that make Anguilla so special. As we as an industry, continue to protect and cherish these marine treasures, Anguilla's future as a world-class diving destination shines brighter than ever, offering unforgettable adventures for divers of all levels.
