Triple Anchors

Triple Anchors is a reef dive site on the western reef line of Turneffe Atoll, Belize, situated just south of Blue Creek. The site takes its name from the scattered remnants of an early 18th-century vessel, most notably three anchors that lie along a northwest-to-southeast line spanning several hundred yards. Two large anchors are cemented into the reef in an upright position, while a smaller one rests in the sand among the coral formations. All three are now heavily encrusted with corals and sponges, making them difficult to identify without a practiced eye; the large anchor southeast of the mooring is the easiest to locate.

The reef slopes gently across a broad base, with coral stacks scattered throughout. Large, wide coral formations dominate the terrain, with mountainous star coral being the most prevalent variety. Big coral heads and outcrops begin at around 35 feet (11 m) and extend down to 60 feet (18 m), the maximum depth reaching approximately 60 feet (18.3 m). Numerous tunnels, arches, nooks, and swim-throughs add variety to the layout.

Access is by boat, and a mooring has been installed at the site. One of the two large anchors sits a short distance northwest of the mooring, providing a straightforward reference point; the other two anchors lie in opposite directions from there. The site is rated for intermediate divers and is well suited to underwater photography, particularly around the large upright anchor.