Bermuda Coral Reef
The Blue Hole
Viewed from above, the circular area of sand that makes up the heart of this coral reef site looks like a Blue Hole. Blue hole coral reef is one of the most pristine of all Bermuda's reef sites as well as a favorite of most divers.
The Blue Hole coral reef is located at the end of Eastern Blue Cut, where the shallow waters meet the North Atlantic. This is a classic multi-level site, with a maximum depth of 55 feet. The top of the reef can be often seen above the surface during low tide.
Depending upon weather and sea conditions, the boat may be anchored within the "hole" or in the deep sandy section to the south of the main hole. A permanent anchor system was recently fitted to this Blue Hole coral reef site.
Try to get there early. This site is always very special, but by getting in first you improve your chances of seeing some of Bermuda's rare marine life. Eagle Rays are seen feeding in the large sandy area. A cave marks the entrance to the hole. You can find Groupers and Trumpet Fishes here. You can also see the Lobsters and other predator fish feeding.
It's not unusual to see as many as 30 Spiny Lobsters during a single dive especially during rough sea conditions. During this time the lobsters leave the more exposed shallow reef and seek shelter on the isolated reef heads in the deeper sandy section.
The reef surrounding the hole comes within a few inches of the water surface. As you come to the shallows, it becomes a photographer’s dream. The crystal clear water with great visibility, light and color retention gives an ideal setup for a great photography.
Overhangs provide cover for Lobsters and large number of Blue Angel fish. You can see massive Sea Fans all across. If you look closely in the sand, you can find Leopard Flat Worms and Trumpet Triton's.
The edges of the sand are a favorite spot for Golden Crested Sea Goddesses and other Nudibranch which are shell-less marine snails. During the winter months this is a popular hide out for some large size Tarpons, could be in excess of 5 feet. Parrot fish in hundreds would pass through regularly.
I suggest that you take a guided tour to best experience this reef site, as there are so many things to be seen here. It can be otherwise quite confusing once you are in the water.
For Snorkelers
While Blue Hole reef is a great scuba diving site, it is also excellent for snorkeling. Since the water is so clear and the reefs near the hole come so close to the water surface, you can easily snorkel and get amazing experience of the reefs and colorful fishes all around. You can see beautiful Gorgogians, Purple Fans and Brain Corals. Usually there are lots of Parrotfish, Damsel fish, Sergeant Majors, Blue Tangs, and Butterfly fish that will surround you as you snorkel.
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 By Raj Bhattacharya
Raj, a seasoned travel writer and Bermuda destination expert, has extensive global travel experience. This website reflects his profound insights, garnered over nearly two decades of dedicated findings and research on the island. Raj has assisted countless Bermuda-bound visitors by providing direct, personalized responses to their queries and imparting his wealth of knowledge through this platform. This site serves as an indispensable guide for those seeking informed and reliable insights into Bermuda's treasures.
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