MV Maverick (Scarlet Ibis) - Tobago Scuba Diving Site

Lying in 100ft of water is the wreck of the M.V Maverick, once a passenger ferry between the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago. The Scarlet Ibis as it was then called served for many years before being replaced with a bigger faster ferry.

The Maverick is an old car ferry, which was deliberately sunk in April 1997 to create an artificial reef. She lies in an upright position on the seabed. One major attraction on this dive is Jacob, the oversized grouper who took up residence on the Maverick five months after she went down. Every boat which takes divers to this wreck carries a treat for Jacob. He obviously knows this, and makes it his business to meet and greet them with his friendly nudges.

The top of the Wreck is 55ft and decent is down a line attached to the bow usually passing though a school of bait fish with Bonito fish darting in and out upon reaching the bow "Jacob" a resident Jew fish comes to greet the divers, weighing approx. 150lbs he is an impressive host to the ships tour.

Because of the depth the dive usually lasts 30-35 mins and it is possible to penetrate the ship even as far as the diesel engine rooms. Reef building crabs, sennet fish and clams add to this interesting dive site.

Jacob the 'wrecked' Jewfish!

These huge fish can reach 8ft in length and weigh hundreds of pounds. Despite their size, they have been known to become very friendly to divers.

Scarlet Ibis - At a Glance:

• Location: Caribbean Sea
• Depth: 100ft / 33m
• Dive time: 30-35 mins
• Time to site: 20 mins
• Level: Intermediate