Dive into the vibrant world of Stetson Bank during the iconic coral spawning event under a full moon. With abundant marine life and geological marvels, this adventure offers a truly unforgettable underwater experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, comfortable with night diving and handling gear.
Wildlife
History
The area has been a favored fishing and diving site for decades, due to its rich biodiversity and geological formations.
Conservation
Texas Caribbean Charters emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including reef-safe products and responsible diving to protect the delicate marine environment.
Texas Caribbean Charters, LLC
Dive into the vibrant world of Stetson Bank during the iconic coral spawning event under a full moon. With abundant marine life and geological marvels, this adventure offers a truly unforgettable underwater experience.
Texas Caribbean Charters, LLC is a professional dive charter operator based in Freeport, Illinois. The company organizes liveaboard-style and multi-day diving trips to the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary and Stetson Bank in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Trips feature encounters with manta rays, turtles, sharks, and abundant reef life around coral reefs and offshore oil platforms.
Trip lengths range from two-day weekend trips to three- and four-day adventures; itineraries include day dives and dedicated night dives, and some schedules focus on coral spawning events such as Madracis and other gamete releases during full-moon cycles. Each itinerary lists the number of dives and specific highlights: the Coral Spawn Experience includes 16 dives over four days with four night dives; the Stetson Coral Spawn Adventure centers on night spawning dives at Stetson Bank during a three-day schedule; the Three Day Extended Flower Garden Tour and the Weekend Flower Garden Tour offer multiple dives at Flower Garden Banks, oil platforms, manta cleaning stations, and turtle habitats.
Texas Caribbean Charters, LLC operates from Freeport, Illinois, providing surface support and logistics for these offshore excursions. The operator promotes safe, guided diving with experienced crews familiar with Gulf of Mexico dive sites. Booking follows published schedules and seasonal calendars, and divers should consult the operator's itinerary announcements for exact dates and availability.
Departure
Freeport, Illinois
Local boarding and logistics point
Trip Lengths
2–4 days
Weekend to four-day itineraries
Max Dives
16 dives
Coral Spawn Experience includes 16 dives
Primary Sites
Flower Garden & Stetson
Sanctuary reefs and oil platforms
Check schedules and availability from Freeport, Illinois to secure space for seasonal spawning windows, manta encounters, and night dives.
Night Dive Safety
Always dive with a qualified guide, especially during night dives and spawning events.
Gear Up Properly
Bring a powerful dive light, wetsuit, and reef-safe sunscreen for comfort and safety.
Check the Moon Phase
Schedule your trip around the full moon to witness the coral spawning spectacle.
Book Early
Popular dates fill quickly, so reserve your spot well in advance.
Full wetsuit
Keeps you warm during night dives in cooler waters.
all
Dive light
Essential for night navigation and observing marine life.
all
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin without harming the delicate marine ecosystem.
summer|fall|spring|winter
Surface marker buoy (SMB)
Helps signal your location during dives for safety.
all