Statia—affectionately known as “The Golden Rock”—is one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets. Its waters cradle more than 400 historic shipwrecks, coral-encrusted anchors, and the legendary blue beads once used as currency, offering divers a rare glimpse into centuries of Caribbean history. The island’s marine environment and diving experiences have earned top accolades, including #1 Wreck Diving, #1 Macro Life, #1 Underwater Photography, and #1 Health of Marine Environment in the Scuba Diving Magazine Reader’s Choice Awards.

At Gas Divers, we’re always on the lookout for hidden gems—destinations that are off the beaten path, packed with unique experiences, and worth every extra mile to get to. Statia—The Golden Rock—is exactly that.

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.

Known as the “hidden gem” of the Caribbean, Statia was ranked #1 in several categories in the 2024 Scuba Diving Magazine Reader’s Choice Awards, including Best Wreck Diving, Best Macro Life, and Best Marine Environment.

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.

2024 & 2025 Scuba Diving Magazine Reader’s Choice Awards

🏆 #1 Wreck Diving
🏆 #1 Macro Life
🏆 #1 Underwater Photography
🏆 #1 Health of Marine Environment
🏆 #1 Advanced Diving
🏅 #4 Beginner Diving

Golden Rock Resort offers a serene getaway with modern accommodations, sustainable amenities, and modern comforts. Guests can enjoy activities like tennis, board games, swimming, and spa treatments, as well as explore the Caribbean through hiking a dormant volcano or diving in protected marine parks.

We’ll be staying in One-Bedroom Cottages: Beyond the elegantly appointed living area, separate bedroom, large bathroom and kitchenette, each cottage comes with a little garden and a private porch

Golden Rock Resort is one of the Caribbean’s leaders in sustainable hospitality—recognized with multiple international certifications:

Green Globe Certification

Acknowledges excellence in energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and community engagement.

Green Key Award

One of the world’s most respected environmental certifications in hospitality, awarded after rigorous evaluation of eco-practices and sustainability education

Michelin Key Awarded Resort

A major highlight: the resort now holds a Michelin Key, recognizing exceptional quality and guest experience.
This is huge—and makes this trip an even greater value:

Bragging rights: You get to stay at a Michelin-awarded property before the rates inevitably rise.

• The easiest way to get to Statia is to fly into Saint Marten (Airport Code SXM) and then book a flight to and from Statia via WinAir.  There is a flight from SXM to EUX (Statia) that flies out at 6pm.

• We will share our flight details when you book so we can arrive around the same time.

  • GAS Arrival to SXM: Around 3:30pm on American Airlines coming from Miami

  • Wait at airport and then take the WinAir flight to Statia at 6pm.

• You need a valid passport for at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay.

• If the WinAir flight does fill up (the plane is very small) there are options to book a ferry. Please talk to us directly about the best route if you're planning to use the ferry.