Stoney Bay Marine Park
A marine park over the wreck of a Spanish ship lost off Anguilla in 1772.
Updated 3 September 2026
Stoney Bay marine park protects the wreck of El Buen Consejo, a Spanish ship carrying Franciscan missionaries to Mexico that went down off Anguilla's northeastern coast in 1772, and the site is one of the few underwater archaeological parks in the eastern Caribbean. Anchors, cannon and ballast lie on the sea floor. Access is controlled to protect the site and it is not a general dive.
What's there
- The wreck site - anchors, cannon and ballast on the sea floor.
- The 1772 loss - a Spanish ship carrying missionaries to Mexico.
- The archaeological park - one of very few underwater parks in the region.
- The controlled access - protection limiting who dives it and when.
When to go
December to April is calmest for the crossing. Access is controlled year round. Hurricane season runs June to November.
Things to know
Access is restricted and this is not a walk-up dive; arrangements go through the authorities. Visibility and conditions on this coast are variable. The remains are low and scattered rather than a standing wreck.
Nearby
Island Harbour is south, and Shoal Bay East is southwest.
What to pack for Stoney Bay Marine Park
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- Daypack with rain cover - 20-30 litres holds water, snacks, layers and a first-aid kit. Find on Amazon
- Offline maps + a power bank - Download the trail before you lose signal; carry backup charge. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
