Saint Lucia is anything but ordinary. This extraordinary island shines with radiant natural beauty, a rich and fascinating culture, and friendly and welcoming people. There is so much to appreciate on St. Lucia: the majestic Piton Mountains, the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano, spa-like sulphur springs, gorgeous waterfalls, spectacular hiking trails, golden beaches, tree-to-bar chocolate-making experiences, local street parties, restaurants featuring traditional Caribbean cuisine and international fare, and of course, scuba diving and snorkeling on its beautiful coral reefs.

Saint Lucia is not only among the most scenic islands in the Caribbean but it is also a destination that offers something for every kind of traveler — avid divers, fun-loving families, beach lovers and adventure seekers. You can vacation on this Eastern Caribbean island year-round, but this is the perfect time to plan a getaway during one very special week — Dive Fest 2023, which is being held September 16-23. After a hiatus, the annual celebration is returning in 2023.

“Saint Lucia: Let Her Inspire You” is one of the slogans of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, and one thing is certain during Dive Fest 2023 — visitors will be inspired by the island during the event. As one dive operator explained: “While Saint Lucia’s stunning natural beauty provides a kaleidoscope of rich experiences to enjoy, it is the captivating, engaging culture and lifestyle of her people that will draw you in and connect with you at your core every time.”

“We’ve begun the countdown to welcome Dive Fest 2023, and the return of this very popular festival is a high point in the annual calendar for the island,” said Lorine Charles-St. Jules, CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority.

Divers from around the world travel to Saint Lucia for this celebration of its captivating marine life across dozens of pristine dive sites, such as Superman’s Flight in the Pitons Management Area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Lesleen M wreck, a former 165-foot freighter. Whether you are a novice or advanced diver, there is plenty to explore underwater, both from a boat or from shore.

A number of the island’s dive operations and dive resorts are participating, including Anse Chastanet Resort, Scuba Steve’s Diving/Dive Saint Lucia, Scuba St. Lucia, Sandals Dive Centre, Scuba at the BodyHoliday, Action Adventure Divers, Eastern Caribbean Diving and Sugar Beach, a Viceroy resort.

Dive Saint Lucia is offering a 5% discount on dive packages when you book a Dive Fest 2023 package before July 31, 2023. To get the special rate, you must book directly with the dive center (email [email protected] or phone/WhatsApp at +17584890411); reservations made online are not eligible. Dive Saint Lucia does not have a minimum diver requirement for their dive excursions — they will make the trip with only one diver onboard.

Anse Chastanet Resort and its onsite dive operation, Scuba St. Lucia, have created a week of special activities to celebrate Dive Fest, including a week of boat and shore dives, PADI courses and photographic competitions. Divers can also earn the PADI Dive against Debris Specialty. Guests will be treated to rum cocktails while taking a sunset cruise that sails past the twin peaks of the Pitons twin peaks. For those with nondiving family or friends, Anse Chastanet offers an array of activities, including biking, kayaking, sailing, birdwatching, and sunrise and sunset yoga classes. Nondiving guests staying at the resort can sign up for a free “Discover Scuba” course.

“The week-long festival highlights exploration, education and conservation with activities, including our annual lionfish culling,” Charles-St. Jules said. Participants can opt to take a PADI course focused on the culling of these invasive fish. Anse Chastanet will offer a lionfish cooking demonstration and special dinner prepared by its talented culinary team.

For accommodation and dive packages offered by other dive operations and resorts, contact the specific operation or resort directly.

“We encourage dive enthusiasts of all levels to join us above and below the sea for a colorful and memorable week,” Charles-St. Jules said.

CONTACT

1-758-489-4645

[email protected]

Stlucia.org/en/divefest