The Thunderdome

The Thunderdome was one of the first dives we did during our Turks and Caicos trip and is worth a mention. The structure was originally built in the early 90's for the "Survivor" style French TV show "Le Tresor de Pago Pago".

Contestants had to dive into the dome and collect "pearls" while holding their breath before getting air from a mermaid. You can find clips from the original show online.

Apparently the show didn't last long after some contestants developed lung injuries when surfacing after breathing compressed air at depth. For non-divers: compressed air expands as the surrounding water pressure is reduced.

After suffering hurricane damage, the remains of the structure now lie on the bottom of the ocean at a depth of about 30 feet making an interesting dive site and home to lots of sea-life.