Do I Need A Passport?
Passport Required for All US Citizens
Itinerary Ideas:
Beaches
Natural Landmarks
Snorkeling
Photography
Kid & Family Friendly Options
What to Bring
Cash
Identification
Food & Beverage (Optional)
Trip Time
6 Hours
Cost
$1800
Snorkel
Stopping to snorkel at the Wreck of the Chikuzen in Virgin Gorda offers a unique opportunity to explore a fascinating underwater world, where vibrant marine life thrives around the sunken shipwreck.
The clear, calm waters provide excellent visibility, allowing you to get up close to colorful coral reefs, schools of fish, and even sea turtles. This historic wreck site adds an adventurous twist to your day charter, combining natural beauty with a touch of maritime history.
Wreck of the Chikuzen
The Wreck of the Chikuzen offers a fascinating blend of history and marine life. This Japanese freighter, which sank in 1981, now serves as an artificial reef. You’ll get to explore the rusted remains of the ship while learning about its story and how it became part of the local ecosystem.
You’ll find the wreck just off the coast of Virgin Gorda, near the southern tip of the island. It’s an easy stop on a day charter, and it’s accessible for snorkelers. The shallow waters approaching the wreck (between 10 to 20 feet deep) ensure a relaxed and safe snorkeling experience.
The combination of the shipwreck, tropical fish, and the clear, bright waters offers amazing photo ops. No matter if you’re capturing the details of the wreck itself or snapping shots of the fish that have made it their home, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get some unforgettable underwater pictures.
Explore
Far from the well-worn paths of other dive sites, the Wreck of the Chikuzen sits in open water, isolated and alive. This remoteness has turned it into a magnet for marine life—reef sharks, barracuda, eagle rays, and dense schools of snapper weave through the ship’s skeletal frame.
Hovering above the wreck, you’ll notice how the silence hits differently here. With no shoreline in sight and no crowds around you, the experience feels almost meditative—a rare chance to drift weightlessly through history and nature at once.
The site is best for intermediate to confident snorkelers due to its offshore location and occasional current.
That said, conditions can vary day-to-day, and Captain Rob can gauge your comfort levels and decide if it’s the right stop for your group. When the water is calm, even newer snorkelers can enjoy the surface-level views and marine life floating near the wreck.
One of the draws of Virgin Gorda: Wreck of the Chikuzen is the surprising variety of sea life. You might spot reef sharks, eagle rays, barracuda, large snapper schools, and colorful reef fish.
The wreck acts like a magnet for marine activity, giving you the chance to see species you wouldn’t typically encounter near shore.
Although the initial waters approaching the wreck are shallow, they get deeper as you get closer to the Chikuzen. The wreck rests in about 75 feet of water, with its highest points around 50 feet. You don’t need a scuba certification to appreciate the site—on a clear day, snorkelers can easily spot the top of the wreck and the marine life surrounding it. Virgin Gorda: Wreck of the Chikuzen is one of the few offshore wrecks where snorkelers can still enjoy a great view from the surface.
We recommend a rash guard or wetsuit top for warmth and sun protection, plus a waterproof camera if you have one—this is a site you’ll want to capture.
Your charter will provide snorkel gear, but if you wear prescription goggles or fins, you’re welcome to bring your own. The area can be breezy, so a secure hat and towel are also helpful between dips.
Experience the beauty of the islands, from stunning beaches to vibrant marine life, all while enjoying personalized service. Let us help you create unforgettable memories on the water!
