Bermuda Snorkeling Remains A Thriving Activity

By Jessica Thomas


Activities in and around water are amongst the main reasons people visit the islands of the Caribbean. Bermuda snorkeling is one such activity and there are not many other places on earth that can boast having such clear water, fine weather and mind boggling choice of amazing sites to snorkel.

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.

Those making their first visit will benefit from doing a little prior research to learn where their snorkeling ability, interest and financial circumstances can best be satisfied. Many visitors are delighted to snorkel off some of the abundant heavenly beach locations and spend the rest of their time simply lying around and simply just chilling out.

One drawback is that from a beach one is only likely to see smaller marine species like parrot and butterfly fish. To see larger game fish it may be better to go on an organized boat diving tour. Some beaches have nearby offshore rocks and reefs which increases the variety of creatures likely to be seen as well as revealing the wonders of coral. A good example is Tobacco Bay Beach located close to an old fort named after Saint Catherine. Found on the northern most point of St George Island relatively close to the airport, this could be a good option for those with limited time as traveling time could be minimized.

An equally renowned area offering great snorkeling is Elbow Beach, located centrally on the southern coastal region of Main Island within Paget Parish. Some opinions rate Elbow Beach as among the very best in Bermuda. A major attraction is the proximity of a shipwreck, approximately one hundred yards offshore that is quite easy to access.

A hurricane in 1915 caused the vessel Pollockshields to go off course and sail into the reefs off this shoreline. This site may be suited to more practiced divers, or possibly by going with a knowledgeable tour led group, as it has a reputation to occasionally produce a strong surge current in rougher weather conditions. Nevertheless it offers breathtaking sights of the sunken vessel and it is even possible to swim within the old boiler house of the stricken ship.

If your visit is geared around a family experience then Snorkel Beach could be the ideal location to visit. Situated on the west most tip of Main Island, initially it is the brilliantly white and fine sand which captures the attention. Calm waters and shallows are also what make this a terrific dive location for those with younger families.

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.

Whether a beginner or an old hand at snorkeling, Bermuda has something to offer everyone. There is always something new to be discovered. The sites mentioned are but a small sample from the myriad number of memorable locations where all tastes and styles are accommodated.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment