Expert: Michael - 8/10/2006

Question
Do you recommend snorkeling from the beach or taking a boat to snorkel in Bermuda?  Also, which
areas to you think are the best?

Answer
Hello Diane,

If you desire the best Bermuda has to offer in snorkeling I would recommend an operator.  Someone like Jesse James Tours (www.jessiejames.bm), Bermuda Barefoot Cruises (www.bermudabarefootcruises.com) or Charter Bermuda (www.charterbermuda.com).  Jessie will take you to reefs and shipwrecks as will the Barefoot . That's right, ship wrecks too!  They would of course supply all the equipment.

If on the other hand you seek casual snorkeling and you bring your own mask, fins and snorkel, you could  put in from a beach and enjoy the depths.  The most highly rated area from the beach is Church Bay on the Southshore.  I would also recommend Tobacco Bay out beyond the bay where the ocean meets it.  It is more colorful with tropical fish and urchins and coral reefs.  Tobacco also rents equipment.

I enjoy Whale Bone Bay down Ferry Reach but this is a bit out of the way and easily accessible by moped.

There is also an underwater trail at the dockyard.  I have never snorkeled this trail so I can only make you aware of it.

Happy planning!
Michael