Exuma Cave Diving: Into the Deep

If undersea exploration and adventure is what you crave, then Great Exuma is your ultimate destination. Diving aficionados of all types believe that the Bahamas is the prime location to not only experience the excitement of the unknown, but also revel in the spectacular beauty of the ocean’s underwater scenery. Exuma cave diving is famous for its diversity; it offers numerous caves varying in shape, depth and splendor, showcasing Bahamas’ versatile and colorful marine life.

What is it?
Cave diving consists of exploring natural and artificial caves that are partially or fully filled with water with the aid of scuba equipment. Exuma cave diving allows divers to investigate caves that were formed during the Ice Age, a time when much of the ocean’s water was frozen which caused the sea level to drop significantly, leaving many of the shores of the Bahamas dry. Rain falling on the exposed limestone filtered down to sea level, eroded the surface, resulting in the formation of caves. Eventually, when the ice melted and the sea level rose again, the caves were claimed by the sea.

A sight to see
Aside from being able to discover the many varieties of flora and fauna of the briny deep, Exuma cave diving allows you to observe what is called halocline. The water in the caves is fresh, pure, and salt-free. It consists of the rainwater that seeps through the limestone and sits on the under layer of the sea water. At a depth of approximately 30 feet, it is possible to see where the fresh water meets the salt water. If something is passed through the interface, there is a momentary blurring as the two types of water are mixed.

Places to dive

Angelfish Blue Hole is located just outside Georgetown and is the most popular Exuma cave diving site. It is a tidal marine cave that opens up into numerous caverns and grottos. It is known for its abundant population of barracuda, coral, sponges and, of course, angelfish.
Mystery Cave extends beneath Stocking Island and the surrounding area. The cave begins at a depth of 15 feet, but soon drops off to a heart-pounding 100 feet. Its intricate and extensive cavern network was revealed when divers released dye into the mouth of the cave and it resurfaced 4 miles offshore.
Crab Cay Crevasse is situated not far from Angelfish Blue Hole and is approximately 30-90 feet in depth. Its opening is only 15 feet below the ocean’s surface and it is a prime location to view crabs, spiny lobsters, anemones, and round sting rays.

Cave diving should never be done alone or without the proper equipment or training. Always be sure to carry enough oxygen and a first aid kit. Also note that it is illegal to carry a spear gun, harvest starfish, or break off coral. To learn more about Exuma cave diving and the locations of certified training facilities, please consult the Bahamas Diving Association website.

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