intermediate
    (147)

    Whale Bone Bay - Bermuda Diving

    22m Max
    12-28m Vis
    boat

    Site Overview

    Whale Bone Bay features a productive reef slope descending from eight to twenty-two metres with diverse coral formations and regular pelagic encounters. The bay name references historical whaling activity but today the site supports thriving marine biodiversity with green sea turtles and seasonal eagle rays among the highlights. The reef diving environment at Whale Bone Bay 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. The marine communities at Whale Bone Bay demonstrate the remarkable resilience of Atlantic reef ecosystems with coral formations providing essential habitat structure for the diverse fish and invertebrate populations that characterise Bermuda underwater environment. The site position within Bermuda extensive reef network ensures regular water exchange delivering fresh nutrients and planktonic food sources that sustain the abundant marine life throughout the year.

    Dive Briefing

    "The shore entry at Church Bay places you at Whale Bone Bay where the reef structure is apparent as you descend along the reef slope. Explore the slope noting the diverse coral communities and tropical fish populations. The 8 to 22 metre depth range provides varied exploration opportunities at different depths. Complete safety stops in the shallower sections among the abundant reef life. 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 Whale Bone Bay ensures you experience the full range of marine habitats and species diversity available at this site. Take time during the dive to observe the smaller details of the reef ecosystem including the invertebrate communities encrusting organisms and juvenile fish that utilise the habitat for protection and feeding. These observations enhance the overall diving experience and provide additional photographic subjects for those carrying underwater cameras."

    Signature Marine Life

    Stoplight parrotfish

    common

    Sparisoma viride

    Best: April, May, June

    Queen angelfish

    common

    Holacanthus ciliaris

    Best: April, May, June

    Green sea turtle

    frequent

    Chelonia mydas

    Best: May, June, July

    Spotted eagle ray

    seasonal

    Aetobatus narinari

    Best: June, July, August

    Barracuda

    common

    Sphyraena barracuda

    Best: April, May, June

    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
    Nearest Chamber
    King Edward VII Memorial Hospital Hyperbaric Unit, Hamilton
    10km away

    Traveler Notes

    Who is this for?

    Whale Bone Bay suits intermediate and advanced divers seeking productive reef diving on Bermuda south shore. The site appeals to underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts with its diverse species populations and good visibility conditions. Whale Bone Bay 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.

    reef-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