Surrounded by some of the northernmost coral reefs in the world with the giant, beautiful purple sea fans, Bermuda is a great diving destination for beginners and those who have a keen interest for shipwrecks.
When is the best time to dive in Bermuda?
It all depends on the diving goals. For the warmest water consider diving May through September. For the best visibility, you might want to consider the winter months: November through February.
What can you see?
Some of the healthiest reefs in the world that create a beautiful home to a variety of fish. Including parrotfish, angelfish, groupers, and snappers, as well as vibrant corals, sponges, and other invertebrates.
Bermuda is commonly referred to as the shipwreck capital of the Atlantic. So you can of course see many shipwrecks.
Popular Dive Spots
Hermes Shipwreck
In 1943, the US Navy constructed a 165-foot steel-hulled ship named Hermes. After serving in WWII, the ship was converted to a Panamanian freighter. While on a mission to the Cape Verde Islands the crew ran into engine troubles around Bermuda.
With help from Bermudians the crew attempted to repair the vessel. However, when they learned the cost to repair the issues exceeded the ships worth, the vessel was abandoned. Hermes was later awarded to The Bermuda Divers Association. Then in 1985, Hermes was safely modified for recreational diving and placed at the bottom of the ocean.
North Rock Reef
North Rock Reef thriving with corals, sea fans and large groups of fish. This is largely due to the protection and the strict no fishing zone.
The maximum depth is around 30 feet making it an excellent location for new divers.
What are there so many shipwrecks?
First, for an unfamiliar captain Bermuda’s pristine reefs are tricky to navigate. The reef system sits as far out as 16 miles. The reef combined with unsuspecting shallow waters is the perfect invitation for a crash.
Second, prior to the installation of the historic Gibbs Lighthouse in 1846 there was no navigational assistance. Making the occurrence of shipwrecks frequent.
Lastly, intentional misdirection was employed during wartime, deliberately directing ships towards the reef systems to cause harm and ensure their destruction in Bermuda’s treacherous waters.
Recommended Dive Shops
Blue Water Divers
Dive Bermuda Grotto Bay
Snorkeling in Bermuda
If you are not certified for scuba diving but would still like to explore the ocean, with over 30 beaches there are numerous places to snorkel around Bermuda. A few of my favorite snorkel spots are Church Bay where you can see giant parrotfish, Tobacco Bay, Shelly Bay,
Planning a trip to Bermuda? Check out my Ultimate Bermuda Travel Guide.
Hey there! My name is Ashley and I am the adventurer behind the wheel of a Toyota Tacoma Overland rig, driving around the world with my four-legged bestie, Porter da explorer.
This once-in-a-lifetime adventure is not only fulfilling my dreams, but also paying homage to my late father. His free spirit of exploration continues to guide me every mile of the way.
Check out current videos on Instagram
Join the adventure!
Once you sign up, I will email you a free gift and from the road, I will send you monthly updates. Excited for you to explore the world with me, no matter where you are.