ST. KITTS CELEBRATES 6 WINS AT 2026 SCUBA DIVING READERS' CHOICE AWARDS
St. Kitts has cemented its status as a premier global dive destination by securing an impressive array of top honours in the prestigious 2026 Scuba Diving Readers’ Choice Awards. Voted on by the magazine's dedicated and passionate worldwide community, the accolades recognize the destination’s commitment to sustainability, exceptional marine diversity, and outstanding visitor experience.
St. Kitts earned distinctions across six critical categories, highlighting the diversity and quality of its underwater offerings:
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Top 10 – Best Value
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One of the Best – Big Animals
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One of the Best – Wreck Diving
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One of the Best – Health of Marine Environment
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One of the Best – Macro Life
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One of the Best – Beginner Diving
The Honorable Marsha T. Henderson, Minister of Tourism, expressed her profound pride in the destination’s achievements. Minister Henderson is known for her advocacy of sustainable practices and elevating St. Kitts' tourism presence.
“This extraordinary recognition in the Scuba Diving Readers’ Choice Awards is a clear validation of our unwavering commitment to preserving the pristine beauty of our marine environment and delivering exceptional value to our visitors,” said Minister Henderson. “To be named among the best across so many diverse categories from Best Value to the Health of our Marine Environment, is an honor that belongs to every dive operator, marine stakeholder, and citizen dedicated to protecting our natural treasures. We invite the world to come and experience our Sweet Sugar City’s world-class diving firsthand.”
Kelly Fontenelle, Chief Executive Officer of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, commented on the impact of the awards on the destination’s global profile.
“The multiple wins in the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards are a tremendous boost to St. Kitts’ visibility on the global stage,” stated CEO Fontenelle. “Divers consistently praise the variety of our offerings, from the historic shipwrecks to the vibrant macro life, all of which are easily accessible. We see these awards as not only a celebration but a strategic reinforcement of our brand as a premier, sustainable, and unforgettable dive destination for every skill level, from beginners to seasoned explorers.”
Randel Thompson, Director of Marine Resources, commented on the impact of the awards on the destination’s global profile.
“The recognition for 'Health of the Marine Environment' is a direct result of the long-term, strategic work undertaken by our department, in partnership with the fisheries and tourism sectors,” stated Randel Thompson, Director of Marine Resources and Fisheries. “We are rigorously focused on conservation and the sustainable use of our marine assets, ensuring that the vibrant ecosystems praised by divers are protected for generations to come. This award affirms that our dedication to marine management and the establishment of Marine Managed Areas is making a tangible difference.”
Nestled at the confluence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, St. Kitts offers divers a rich tapestry of sites. Stunning shipwrecks lie off the island’s shores, with many remaining unexplored, offering unique historical diving experiences. The consistently high rankings in Marine Health and Macro Life are a testament to the island's proactive conservation efforts, which ensure vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine biodiversity, making it a haven for divers of all skill levels.
St. Kitts invites travelers to discover the unspoiled wonders that have captivated the global diving community.
About the Scuba Diving Readers’ Choice Awards
The Scuba Diving Readers’ Choice Awards are highly coveted industry accolades, recognizing the best diving destinations, operators, and experiences worldwide. The annual list is a trusted resource for divers planning their next adventure.