.

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 potential disadvantage of snorkeling close to shore is that it can limit the size of fish that you are likely to see. Butterfly and Parrot fish are common sightings, but if spotting larger species is your thing, a chartered boating service may be preferable of which there are plenty to choose from. Tobacco Bay is such a beach offering an amazing snorkel experience and which is close to a castle called after Saint Catherine on the northern coast St George Island. Visitors with limited time available will enjoy this venue as it is relatively close to the Wade International Airport.

Another really worthwhile location for snorkelers is Elbow Beach located in Paget Parish on the central south of the main island. Considered by some to be among the top three beaches on the island Elbow Beach also boasts having a easily accessible shipwreck called the Pollockshields around 100 yards from the shoreline.

The wrecked ship is named the Pollockshields and the sinking took place in 1915 when the vessel became grounded on a reef after losing her way during a hurricane. Probably more suitable for snorkelers with experience, this is an amazing dive site where one can swim through parts of the remaining boiler assembly. Unpredictable currents can occur during rougher conditions so it might be a good idea to join an organized tour who have knowledge of local conditions.

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.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment