Horseshoe Reef

Horseshoe Reef extends southeast from Anegada for around twenty kilometres, one of the larger barrier reefs in the Caribbean, and it has taken an extraordinary number of vessels: several hundred wrecks are recorded on it, from the eighteenth century onwards, because Anegada is low and the reef gives no warning. Charter companies generally prohibit their boats from sailing here for that reason. It is a protected area and anchoring on the coral is banned.

What you actually see

• The reef - around twenty kilometres of barrier coral southeast of Anegada.
• The wreck record - several hundred vessels lost on it since the eighteenth century.
• The low island - Anegada's flatness, which gives approaching ships no warning.
• The protection - the restrictions on anchoring and access.

When to go

December to May is the calmest. Access is restricted and most charter contracts prohibit sailing here. Hurricane season runs June to November.

Honest expectations

Most charter companies forbid their boats from this area and independent navigation is genuinely dangerous. Diving requires a licensed operator. Removing anything from the wrecks is prohibited.

Nearby

Anegada is northwest, and Virgin Gorda is southwest.