St. Eustatius (Statia), named by Columbus in 1493, was claimed 22 times by European nations before becoming a Dutch territory. The island, named after Saint Eustace, patron saint of merchants, became a major 18th-century trading hub, earning the nickname "The Golden Rock."

At its peak, up to 200 merchant ships anchored in Oranje Bay, which now hosts over 400 shipwrecks. Divers can explore remnants like anchors, canons, and coral-encrusted artifacts. One popular site, "Blue Bead Hole," still yields blue beads once used as currency during the slave trade.

The island also holds historical significance for the United States. In 1776, Dutch forces recognized America's independence and saluted the visiting Andrew Doria merchant ship, marking the "first salute" to the U.S. This event is commemorated annually on November 16th as "Statia Day," a national holiday with global ceremonies.

Statia diving offers a variety of dive sites, including wall, wreck, archaeological, lava flow, drift, and night dives, all within a short 5-20 minute boat ride. The sites range from 11 to 31 meters deep and are located on the island’s protected leeward side.

Divers can explore a rich marine reserve home to sea turtles, dolphins, and possibly migrating whales. The waters also teem with Caribbean lobsters, queen conchs, and macro species like sea slugs and nudibranchs. Sharks, stingrays, and rays are common, alongside vibrant schools of Caribbean fish.

Known as the "hidden gem" of the Caribbean, Statia was ranked #1 in several categories in the 2023 Scuba Diving Magazine Reader’s Choice Awards, including Best Wreck Diving, Best Macro Life, and Best Marine Environment.