Dominica has received 11 recognitions in Scuba Diving magazine’s 2027 Readers Choice Awards, with international divers placing the island among the Caribbean and Atlantic region’s Top 5 destinations for Health of Marine Environment.
The Nature Island also secured Top 10 rankings in three other categories: Macro Life, Best Value and Wall Diving.
The results represent an improvement over the 2026 awards, when Dominica placed 10th in the region for Health of Marine Environment and 14th for Best Value.
The awards, now in their 34th year, are determined by ratings submitted by Scuba Diving subscribers and website visitors. Participants assess destinations they have visited across several categories, with final scores calculated from the average ratings. Only destinations receiving the minimum required number of responses qualify for inclusion.
In addition to its four leading rankings, Dominica was recognized among the region’s best for Best Overall, Beginner Diving, Advanced Diving, Underwater Photography, Big Animals, Shore Diving and Snorkeling.
Tourism Minister Denise Charles-Pemberton welcomed the results, crediting the island’s marine attractions and the people who support its diving industry.
“Dominica continues to make waves on the international stage,” said the Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton, Minister for Tourism. “These accolades speak to the quality and diversity of our marine tourism product: our dramatic walls, vibrant marine life, pristine waters and the incredible experiences we offer both first-time and experienced divers. I want to sincerely thank the divers who voted for the Nature Island and congratulate our dive operators, tour guides, hoteliers, fisherfolk and all stakeholders who work every day to protect our marine environment and deliver memorable experiences to all visitors. As we look ahead to the opening of Dominica’s international airport, these international recognitions become even more significant. Dominica is ready to welcome the world, above and below the surface.”
The awards come as Dominica continues efforts to safeguard its marine resources. In 2025, Parliament passed the Sperm Whale Reserve Bill, formally establishing the world’s first marine reserve dedicated to sperm whales. The reserve covers approximately 1,231 square kilometres along the island’s west coast.
Further south, the Soufrière-Scotts Head Marine Reserve protects several of Dominica’s well-known diving sites.
The DDA said the latest diving accolades add to a series of international honors for Dominica. In August 2026, readers of Travel + Leisure named Dominica the No. 1 island in the Caribbean and No. 9 worldwide in the magazine’s 2026 World’s Best Awards.
