Snorkeling and diving in the Bahamas, with its crystal clear water and striking diversity of marine life, is unlike anywhere else in the world. Just off the east side of the Little Bahamas Bank, the primary reef structures are seldom deeper than 30 to 40 feet. Plus, there are open cavern systems and shallow wrecks you can explore. Whether you’re a beginning snorkeler or an experienced spearfisherman, you’ll create memories from your underwater adventures that last a lifetime.
BAHAMAS
SNORKELING & DIVING
A SPECTACULAR WORLD OF UNMATCHED BEAUTY
CREATE UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES
FAMILY FUN
A world of discovery
BLUE HOLES
These intriguing phenomena can be found both on land and out to sea. While on the surface they can be a summer’s delightful swimming hole – dive a little deeper and you’ll find a world of discovery (and danger). Unless you’re a very experienced diver and are bringing backup, you’re probably best off to sign on with a guide. Bahamas Underground is a highly recommended operation specializing in cave and technical diving. For those who choose not to dive, National Geographic Magazine’s article “Deep Dark Secrets” from August 2010 offers a spectacular look inside these mysterious treasures.
Destinations
HOT SPOTS
The Towers: Huge coral pinnacles 60 feet tall, pierced with tunnels and caverns.
Grouper Alley: 40ft. Numerous tunnels beneath monstrous coral heads.
Wayne’s World: 70ft. A tour of the outside of the barrier reef.
The Cathedral: Huge cavern where shafts of sunlight dance on the floor.
Tarpon Reef: High profile corals for a school of tarpon and a huge green moray.
Coral Caverns: A series of winding caverns filled with clouds of shiny silversides.
San Jacinto: 40ft. The wreck of a large steamship sunk in 1865.
The Catacombs: A shallow, sun-splattered cavern with abundant tropical fish.
KEY INSIGHTS
THINGS TO KNOW
Diving in the Bahamas is incredibly fun and exciting, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t have a lot of experience. The safety of you and your family is always a top priority.
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The water temperature averages an amazing 80 degrees fahrenheit year-round. That makes it perfect for diving and every other underwater adventure. If you’re planning to dive, always dive with a buddy and make sure you drink plenty of fluids. After your last dive you should avoid flying for at least 24 hours to avoid the bends. Always tie your vessel to a mooring to prevent anchoring onto or damaging marine reefs. The Bahamas Dive Association cautions against shark diving with any operator other than its members as they adhere to approved guidelines to maximize safe shark interaction. Lycra skin and/or 3 to 5 millimeter wetsuits are recommended when diving; however, your thermal protection should be based on your personal comfort.