intermediate
    (189)

    Taunton - Bermuda Diving

    18m Max
    10-28m Vis
    boat

    Site Overview

    Taunton is a historic wreck resting at 10 to 18 metres on Bermuda south shore reef platform. The vessel has developed extensive marine colonisation with soft corals and sponges covering the hull structure transforming the metal surfaces into productive artificial reef habitat. Moray eels and lobsters shelter in the dark spaces between structural elements while schools of grunts and snappers gather around the larger hull sections. The wreck depth profile allows comfortable bottom times for thorough exploration while the south shore position benefits from generally excellent visibility and protected conditions. Taunton adds important diversity to Bermuda wreck diving portfolio offering a distinct experience from the more commonly dived West End Wreck Alley sites while maintaining the same high standards of marine ecological development and historical interest. The wreck diving environment at Taunton 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 wreck diving site.

    Dive Briefing

    "The dive boat navigates from the south shore departure point for approximately twelve minutes to reach the Taunton wreck. Descend the shot line to the main hull section at 14 metres. Swim along the hull structure noting the coral colonisation patterns that vary with depth and exposure. Explore the scattered debris field around the perimeter observing the transition from wreck to natural reef habitat. The 8 metre depth range provides options for both shallow and deeper exploration. Ascend the shot line completing standard safety stops. 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 Taunton ensures you experience the full range of marine habitats and species diversity available at this site."

    Signature Marine Life

    Moray eel

    common

    Gymnothorax funebris

    Best: April, May, June

    Stoplight parrotfish

    common

    Sparisoma viride

    Best: April, May, June

    Queen triggerfish

    common

    Balistes vetula

    Best: April, May, June

    Barracuda

    frequent

    Sphyraena barracuda

    Best: May, June, July

    Rainbow parrotfish

    occasional

    Scarus guacamaia

    Best: April, May, June

    Safety & Hazards

    • Sharp corroded metal edges on wreck structure requiring careful finning and buoyancy control
    • Fishing line and net entanglement risk on exposed wreck superstructure sections
    • Boat traffic from commercial and recreational vessels operating above dive sites
    • Variable Atlantic swell conditions creating surge at shallower wreck sections
    • Limited visibility during winter months and after heavy rainfall events
    Nearest Chamber
    King Edward VII Memorial Hospital Hyperbaric Unit, Hamilton
    10km away

    Traveler Notes

    Who is this for?

    Taunton suits divers of various experience levels with its accessible depth profile and interesting wreck environment. Underwater photographers appreciate the coral-encrusted structures while marine ecology enthusiasts enjoy the artificial reef development. The site works well as either a first or second dive in a south shore diving itinerary. Taunton 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.

    wreck-diving
    photography
    bermuda

    Quick Stats

    Difficultyintermediate
    Certificationadvanced_open_water
    Currentlight
    Water Temp18-29°C
    Best TimeMay - October

    Dive Logistics

    Operators
    • Dive Bermuda (South Shore)
    • Fantasea Bermuda
    • Blue Water Divers & Watersport
    • Bermuda Reef Divers
    • Aqua Explorers Bermuda
    Pricing Guide
    $140 - $200
    Per 2-tank boat dive

    Photography Info

    Recommended Gear
    16-35mm
    60mm macro

    Best for: wide_angle

    Nearby Stay

    The Loren at Pink Beach

    South Shore5km away

    Check Availability

    Rosewood Bermuda

    Hamilton Parish8km away

    Check Availability