Learn to Dive in the Bahamas
The Bahamas’ Highlights
Divers tend to head to the Bahamas in the hopes they will spot sharks. Tiger Bay is famous for encounters with Tiger Sharks while hammerheads are often spotted at Bimini. There are a variety of sharks that can be spotted in the Bahamas. Many dive operators feed the sharks, if you’re against this be sure to check with some of the smaller dive shops who do not feed. Goliath and Nassau Groupers, eagle rays and the Queen Conch are common to spot on dives.
Known for its colourful reefs, dive sites make prime photographing spots. Diving in the Bahamas is accessible to everyone making it a good place to learn but also dive no matter your level. Boasting some of the most beautiful beaches, post-dive chilling will always be well spent.
Above water explore over 2,000 rocks and cays, and 700 islands. Snorkel with pigs and dolphins, try out different water sports, and tan underneath the Carribean sun. There are plenty of stunning wrecks for all levels.
When is the best time to go diving in the Bahamas?
The Bahamas are a year-round diving destination. May to July is known as the best time to spot Tiger sharks and March to June for Oceanic Whitetips. October to June offers the best weather and visibility. The summer months can have hurricanes which damages the coral and reduces visibility.
The March of the Spiny Lobster occurs in late October or early November when heavy rains cause the lobsters to leave their homes and march in single file to more settled water. The lobsters cover the rear section preventing the lobster in front from getting attacked.
Water Temperature: The water temperature is between 26°C and 31°C year round which makes diving without a wetsuit feasible.
Currents: Mild to strong currents
Visibility: Between 25 and 30 meters year-round.
The Bahamas’ best dive sites
Tiger Beach
The dive at Tiger Beach is world-famous. People fly from all over the world for a chance to see Tiger Sharks in their natural habitat. It’s a shallow dive of 10 meters and you will spend most of the time sitting on the sandy bottom. Watching as a professional feeds the majestic tiger sharks and other shark species.
Runway Wall, Nassau
Runway Wall is famous for its resident reef sharks. The reef sharks are quite tame and give you the opportunity to view them in their natural habitat.
James Bond Wreck, Nassau
James Bond made Nassau famous. Divers can explore a bit of the film-set including the Vulcan Bomber from the film Thunderball and the Tears of Allah shipwreck from Never Say Never Again. Found in as little as 12 meters of water, the dive offers healthy coral and a variety of marine life.
About the country
Famous for their white sandy beaches and crystal blue water, the Bahamas encompasses 700 islands of which 30 are inhabited. With many all-inclusive hotels, tourists flock there in their numbers to explore its beauty. It is a bird watchers paradise with over 370 species of birds to spot. Exuma is world renowned as you can swim with pigs in the crystal blue waters.
Recreational Courses in the Bahamas
Dive Centers in the Bahamas
Getting to the Bahamas
The Bahamas are a convenient 40 minute plane ride from most Florida airports. To travel between islands, it is best done by plane. There are cheap and affordable tickets if booked in advance. There are over 20 international airports across the Bahamas’ Islands, Lynden Pindling located in Nassau is the largest. The best routes are via the US, Canada or the UK.
The Bahamas’ are a popular cruise ship destination with ports located throughout the islands. Once you’re on an island, the best way to get around is to rent a car. There are also local buses, check out the schedule at your local stop. Taxis are available but discuss the price of the ride before you get in, most routes have set prices.
Other important information
- Capital: Nassau
- Official Language: English
- Demonym: Bahamian
- Currency: Bahamian Dollar (BSD)
- Calling code: +1 242
- Driving Side: Left
- Population: 385,000
- Pressure: Pounds/square inch (psi)
- First Stage: INT/ Yoke
