Cistern Point

Cistern Point is a reef dive site located off Salt Island in the British Virgin Islands, rated at novice level and reaching a maximum depth of around 13–15 metres (40–50 ft), with the shallowest areas beginning at roughly 3 metres (10 ft). The terrain is defined by boulders, canyons, small caves, and overhangs, along with shallow coral formations and rocky outcrops that offer plentiful nooks to explore. Tarpon move through the site, and just off the point there are fields of sea grass extending into the surrounding water.

Marine life at Cistern Point includes tarpon, hawksbill turtles, and green turtles attracted by the nearby sea-grass beds, as well as lobsters, eels, and schools of colourful fish sheltering in the caves and crevices. The site is also noted for juvenile reef life hidden among the coral.

Current can be present and tends to strengthen with depth, so staying closer to the shoreline keeps conditions more manageable. The combination of calm shallows, varied structure, and light current in the upper reaches makes Cistern Point well suited to beginner divers and snorkelers alike.