Sunday, August 6, 2017

Bermuda Snorkeling Is Still As Popular As Ever

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 islands of Bermuda are able to brag with shipwrecks, coral reefs and underwater chambers all of which are teeming with a bewildering number of sea creatures. Described by some as near to perfection, the temperature for most of the time makes it pretty much possible to dive all year round. Some of the less hardy will claim that a wet suit is necessary during the November to March winter months but it is during these periods that underwater visibility is at its best.

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

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.

Of note is the added benefit of having alternative attractions close by such as the National Museum and the Quest Dolphin center. Swimming amongst and feeding the dolphins are amongst the great attractions. Coming back to snorkeling matters, fish such as Doctor Fish, Snappers and Angel Fish are frequently seen in this area. Unbelievably there is even a series of underwater signs marking a trail one can follow and adding descriptions to the underwater sights. Canon from a bygone age are often seen on the ocean floor.

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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