Snorkel the crystal-clear waters at Champagne Reef, one of Dominica’s top spots to observe marine life. A leisurely drive along the coast and through the village of Pointe Michel will bring you to the unusual reef, which lies just offshore. It is named for the champagne-like bubbles that continuously rise around it. Subterranean geothermal activity causes gas to be released through small vents in the ocean floor there, forming streams of rising bubbles. In those areas, the water temperature can reach 90? Fahrenheit and the ocean floor will be warm to the touch. The abundant marine life will be just as mesmerizing, as you can expect to spot sergeant majors, angelfish, white-spotted filefish and schools of soldierfish. In all likelihood, you will also see hawksbill and green turtles and perhaps divers in the deeper water. The remains of a 17th-century shipwreck, including cannons and chains, lie scattered about the ocean floor.
