04 août 2017

Bermuda Snorkeling Remains A Thriving Activity

By Jessica Thomas


The islands of the Caribbean are still a major attraction for lovers of water sport and for obvious reasons. For example very few other destinations have the combined features of ideal weather, sparkling clear water and the massive variety of locations that Bermuda snorkeling has to offer.

The Bermudan islands offer an incredible array of coral reef attractions, numerous shipwreck dives that are easy to access, submerged caves plus the most incredible marine environment reported by many to be perfectly unique. The weather is sufficiently warm to allow diving for most of the year while some prefer to wear wetsuits in the November to March winter period. Divers benefit, however, during the cooler period as it is possible to see further underwater.

As a first-time visitor it is important to know what the various locations offer in order to best match ability, areas of interest, time available and of course budget. For example there are many great times to be had just diving off some the sun drenched beaches and for many the combination of snorkeling and just lounging around is ideal

Diving off a beach can limit the size of sea creatures one is likely to come across. Typically Butterfly and Parrot fish are commonly sighted close to shore. Those hoping to see larger species may prefer to dive off boats to access deeper waters. Many organized charters can be found in most areas. Tobacco Bay is typical of the fine beaches where good snorkeling opportunities abound. Located along the north coast of St George Island and adjacent to the historic fort of Saint Catherine, it is close to the airport so visitors will lose little time reaching this remarkable dive site.

Elbow Beach is another brilliant snorkel diving location. Known as amongst the finest in Bermuda, it is located on the southerly coastal region of Main Island, part of Paget Parish. Shipwrecks are the major attraction here and there is one that is reasonably easy to access about a 100 Yards from the beach.

Sunk in 1915 after being blown off course by a hurricane and striking a reef, this is reported to be a really fascinating dive site suited to more experienced snorkelers, and it is even possible to swim right through the massive ship boilers. Best avoided during rough weather due to unpredictable surges the wreck is also visited by dive boat tours.

Snorkel Park is a beach located towards the Western End of Main Island which is oriented with families in mind. Renowned for the purity of the sand and tranquil sea that does not get very deep, it is also close to other places of interest.

The National Museum has been established within a fort close by and the Quest Dolphinarium is another famous attraction in the same complex. It is possible to go swimming amongst the dolphins as well as assisting at feeding times. Under the water, Grey Snappers, Angel Fish and Doctor Fish are common sightings. There is actually a system of signposts under the water to describe what is being observed. Keep a sharp lookout for the old canons that lie on the seabed.

New comers and experienced divers will find they are spoilt for choice when it comes to the amazing snorkeling locations available in Bermuda. The three discussed here are really just the tip of the iceberg or should one rather say tip of the reef.




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