The reefs off Grand Turk are noted for their walls. We heard them compared to Grand Cayman and Bonaire. Our experience was that the reefs were extremely healthy and lush.

Increasingly rare on Caribbean reefs, there are several species of black coral growing at relatively shallow depths here. I guess the jewelers didn't discover it before it was protected.

Here our divemaster, Mackey, points out three varieties growing together under an overhang on the appropriately-named reef, Black Forest.

This was our first dive off Grand Turk. It was the first of many extremely relaxing and satisfying dives.