Chub Heads - Bermuda Diving
Site Overview
Chub Heads is named for the large schools of Bermuda chub that congregate around the reef system creating impressive schooling formations throughout the dive. The site spans ten to twenty-two metres with a coral-covered slope supporting productive reef ecology and regular pelagic encounters. The Bermuda chub schools number in the hundreds forming tight formations that shift and flow over the reef in mesmerising patterns. Green sea turtles are regular visitors grazing on the coral slope while spotted eagle rays make seasonal appearances during the summer months cruising the reef edge. The moderate currents create productive drift diving conditions delivering nutrients that support the abundant fish populations. Chub Heads offers reliable fish action and dynamic diving conditions that reward experienced divers with exciting encounters in Bermuda clear Atlantic waters. The reef diving environment at Chub Heads supports a productive marine ecosystem where nutrient-rich Atlantic waters sustain diverse coral communities and tropical fish populations throughout the diving season. Underwater photographers will find excellent compositions combining the natural beauty of the reef structure with abundant marine life in clear Atlantic waters. The site contributes important biodiversity value to Bermuda diving portfolio offering experiences that complement the more commonly dived locations while providing equally rewarding underwater encounters for visiting divers. Seasonal visitors including green sea turtles spotted eagle rays and migratory pelagic species add excitement to every dive with the possibility of unexpected encounters keeping divers engaged throughout their exploration of this productive reef diving site.
Dive Briefing
"The dive boat covers the twelve-minute crossing from the Dockyard to Chub Heads. Descend into the chub school which typically surrounds the dive site immediately upon entry. Allow the moderate current to carry you along the reef slope in a gentle drift observing the schooling fish and reef species below. The chub formations are most impressive when viewed from slightly below looking upward against the surface light. Throughout the dive maintain awareness of your buddy position and monitor air consumption regularly as the interesting marine life encourages extended exploration beyond planned bottom time limits. The return boat ride provides an excellent opportunity to review underwater photographs share observations with fellow divers and discuss marine species encountered during the dive. Planning your dive profile to include both the shallower and deeper sections of Chub Heads ensures you experience the full range of marine habitats and species diversity available at this site."
Signature Marine Life
Bermuda chub
Kyphosus sectatrix
Best: April, May, June
Green sea turtle
Chelonia mydas
Best: May, June, July
Stoplight parrotfish
Sparisoma viride
Best: April, May, June
Barracuda
Sphyraena barracuda
Best: April, May, June
Spotted eagle ray
Aetobatus narinari
Best: June, July, August
Safety & Hazards
- Fire coral contact burns on exposed reef surfaces requiring careful buoyancy
- Strong seasonal currents particularly during tidal changes near reef channels
- Boat traffic from fishing and recreational vessels in popular reef areas
- Variable Atlantic swell creating surge conditions on shallow reef tops
- Sea urchin spines on reef substrate requiring careful fin placement
Traveler Notes
Who is this for?
Chub Heads suits intermediate and advanced divers comfortable with moderate currents and drift diving techniques. The schooling fish and pelagic encounters appeal to experienced divers while the accessible depth range accommodates various certification levels. Chub Heads also appeals to marine ecology enthusiasts who appreciate observing the complex interactions between coral communities tropical fish populations and seasonal pelagic visitors in a natural Atlantic reef environment. The site works well as part of a multi-dive itinerary combining different habitat types and depth profiles for a comprehensive Bermuda diving experience that showcases the island diverse underwater offerings.
Quick Stats
Dive Logistics
- Dive Bermuda (South Shore)
- Fantasea Bermuda
- Blue Water Divers & Watersport
- Bermuda Reef Divers
- Aqua Explorers Bermuda
Photography Info
Best for: wide_angle
Nearby Stay
The Loren at Pink Beach
South Shore • 5km away
Rosewood Bermuda
Hamilton Parish • 8km away