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One of two liveaboards in the Turks and Caicos, the Turks and Caicos Aggressor II delivers divers to sheer wall ledges covered in colorful sponges and coral as well as sand flats featuring garden eels and stingrays. The itinerary’s diversity in dive sites also allows divers multiple opportunities to see and photograph megafauna such as sharks, turtles, and eagle rays.
Built in 2000 and renovated in 2013, the Turks and Caicos Aggressor II is a modern, 120-foot liveaboard yacht that sleeps up to 18 passengers and has lots of amenities that divers love. Favorite features include the hot tub on the top deck as well as hot, freshwater showers on the dive deck so that passengers can warm up after a long day of diving.
This ship departs from Providenciales, known as Provo, and completes a seven-day circuit in the Turks and Caicos between Provo, West Caicos, and French Cay. Dives begin Sunday morning and end Friday around noon. Divers will average around 27 dives, including night dives.
Let’s dive into our review of the Turks and Caicos Aggressor II.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Helpful crew -
Hot tub on the top deck
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Freshwater shower on dive deck
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Outstanding food
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Fresh towels provided after each dive
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Non-diver/snorkeler friendly
Things we don't like:
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Upper bed is close to ceiling in some staterooms -
Only one dive on Friday
Diving on the Turks and Caicos Aggressor II
The itinerary is packed full of beautiful dive sites, ranging from spectacular wall dives to sandy cliffs. The stellar visibility, typically ranging from 75 to 100 feet (23 to 30 m), means divers are in for a treat when it comes to all the colors that the Turks and Caicos’ reefs have to offer.
One of the best sites is Double D, known as the “Garden of Eden,” which showcases coral mounds and a resident scorpionfish. At each dive site, divers may see marine life including spotted eagle rays, colorful reef fish, sea turtles, sharks, and potentially even an octopus during the night dive. If planning a trip between January to April, there is a chance to see humpback whales during their annual migration for mating.
The Turks and Caicos Aggressor II departs on Sundays and arrives back to Provo on Saturday. Water temperatures range from 78 to 84 F (25 to 29 C). While catering to divers, the ship is also non-diver friendly and offers snorkeling equipment for passengers who aren’t ready to blow bubbles.
Highlights:
- Up to 27 dives per trip
- Hot, freshwater shower following dives
- Marine life including sharks, rays, and possibly even humpback whales
- Nitrox is available, although it is not included
Onboard the Turks and Caicos Aggressor II
The Turks and Caicos Aggressor II sleeps 18 passengers. Accommodations include a master stateroom, six deluxe staterooms and two twin staterooms, all featuring air conditioning, a TV, media player, and en suite bathroom. Cabins have plenty of storage space within a wardrobe and housekeeping occurs during the middle of the trip or upon request.
The Turks and Caicos Aggressor II has plenty of shared space for socializing with fellow divers, including the air-conditioned salon and dining room. The partially covered upper deck is a guest favorite, and features a hot tub, lounge, deck chairs, grill, and a computer for photo editing. Divers won’t be bored when they’re topside, with nightly entertainment including fish identification presentations, movie nights, a small library, and stargazing from the upper deck.
This 120-foot yacht was custom-built for diving, all of which takes place from the back deck. (A tender is available to take divers on a few optional land excursions). The shaded dive deck features storage lockers, a camera table, and two hot, freshwater showers to use after dives. If you don’t have—or don’t want to bring—your own gear, it’s available to rent.
Finally, nitrox is available for an extra fee, and if you’re not nitrox-certified yet, you can sign up for a course on the boat.
Highlights:
- Hot tub
- Private accommodations with AC, TVs, and media players
- Both sunny and shady decks for socializing
- Nitrox course is available
Dining onboard the Turks and Caicos Aggressor II
Just as with most liveaboards, you won’t go hungry on the Turks and Caicos Aggressor II. The menu is varied and includes both American and local cuisines. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style. Breakfast is typically a hot dish served with fresh fruit, cereal, and juice. Lunch consists of soups, salads, and sandwiches.
Snacks, coffee, tea, water, and soft drinks are available 24/7. Dinners are served plated and include a glass of wine, a meat choice, salad, vegetables, and a homemade dessert. The last night onboard features a popular wine and cheese party. Note—if you have dietary restrictions or allergies, alert the crew when booking for food accommodations.
Highlights:
- Excellent food
- 24/7 snacks and beverages
- Alcohol available from bar for an extra charge
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