Bermuda Coral Reefs are some of the northern most reefs in the Atlantic. They are also quite unique being some of the largest that you will see anywhere in the world. Another amazing thing I learned was that whole of Bermuda Island itself was created as a result of a volcanic eruption from the ocean floor. But you won’t be able to make that out by looking at it. While most of this island is volcanic rock, the upper layer that people live on and dive from is all limestone.
Bermuda has 280 square miles (725 square km) of reef. The warm, nutrient rich waters of the Gulf Stream have led to the formation of the world’s most northerly coral reef. Bermuda’s reef is very healthy, and has not suffered the effects of Diver Damage or not suffered the effects of Global Warming like many Caribbean locations. Abundant hard corals and sea fans the size of blankets are common in Bermuda’s waters.
Bermuda is part of three mountains, Challenger, Argus and Bermuda. Bermuda is the only mountain that rises above sea level. Challenger is Bermuda’s closest underwater mountain which is approximately 13 miles (21 km) west of the island. The depth to the bottom is 100 feet(30+ meters). Argus Bank lies 28 miles (45 km) west of the island and the depth to the bottom is about 200+ feet (61+ meters).
Most of Bermuda’s dives are shallow, 30 feet (9 meters) to 60 feet (18 meters) on average, which makes it ideal for recreational divers. Deeper dive sites are also available for the more experienced diver.
During the winter months the water temperature drops as low as 64°F (17°C). In the summer months the water rises to a bath tub like 83°F(28°C). See our Bermuda diving temperatures table for full details. Bermuda, Coral Reefs.
