Montego Bay is justifiably famed for its deep turquoise waters and abundant reef systems, some close enough to swim to from the main beaches.

Discarded rum bottles and tyres can be disconcerting, but the deeper reefs are alive with fish, rays, urchins and the occasional turtle and nurse shark.

There are hosts of similarly priced watersports operators on each beach and within the larger hotels; we've listed the most reputable. Information is available from the Montego Bay Marine Park office at Pier One (phone 876/971-8082).

Diving and Snorkeling

The following offer guided dives (around US$50), certification courses (from US$350) and equipment rental (from US$15). Like every other water sports operator in Montego Bay, they also rent snorkel gear for around US$10 a day; some also offer guided snorkeling tours of the best reefs.

Captain's Watersports and Dive Centre   Round Hill Hotel, Hopewell phone76/956-7050 ext 378.

Fun Divers Wyndham, Rose Hall phone76/953-3268.

Jamaica Scuba Divers   Half Moon Hotel, Ironshore phone76/953-9266.

Resort Divers   Jack Tar Village and Holiday Inn phone876/940-1183 or 953-9699

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