Snorkeling in the Bahamas - The Underwater Treasures of Abaco

Abaco, which is located in the Northeasternworld.
Bahamas, offers several great spots forSimilar to Fowl Cay, the site at Sandy Cay can
discovering the world beneath the waves. Thealso be troublesome with its current, and the large
sites vary in depth, sea life, accessibility, androllers that move towards the reef. The reef is
difficulty, opening up the world of snorkeling tolocated on the backside of a small cay, and is
everyone.technically located in the Sea of Abaco, although
Just off the mainland lies Mermaid's reef. Thisone side is open to the Atlantic Ocean. Elkhorn
small reef is great for beginners, and can becoral is popular at this site, as are the number of
reached from land or water. Under the water,large creatures. Eagle rays, Barracudas, and
several large ball-shaped reefs are home to manysharks are often seen cruising by the area.
colourful species of fish. Parrot fish are the mostSmaller fish tend to get comfortable swimming
interesting, as their beaks are reminiscent ofbeneath the snorkelers, following their every
teeth. Those who listen carefully will be able tomove.
hear the crunch from the Parrot fish munching onThese are only a few of the many sites to visit
the reef.throughout the waters of Abaco. These places
When the waters are calm on the Atlantic side ofare great for snorkeling, although Fowl Cay and
Fowl Cay, the underwater world is spectacular.Sandy Cay are just as great for diving. For those
Protected by the Bahamas National Trust, Fowlwishing to see these underwater havens on their
Cay's marine life is abundant. It is not uncommonown, it is important to pay close attention to the
to see fish of all sizes, sting rays, and evenweather. The waters often have strong currents,
sharks! This is a popular spot for many day tripsand can often be dangerous -- even for the most
that are offered by local dive centers.experienced swimmer. It is also imperative to tie
For a more relaxing excursion, the reef behindup to a mooring, and avoid using an anchor.
Elbow Cay is a great place to snorkel. The reef,Anchors can cause deadly damage to the reefs,
which peaks above the water at low tide, iswhich destroy the homes of many sea creatures.
accessible by foot from the beach. Although thisAnother option is to join a local dive company on
location is shallower than the others, it is inhabitedone of their scheduled excursions. Excursions vary
by many species of coral and small fish. A similarin length, and are a great way to discover the
reef is also located behind Great Guana Cay.local secrets.
These locations are great for those who love theThe underwater worlds of Abaco are waiting to
beach, as the day can be spent soaking up thebe discovered, so grab those masks and fins, and
sun, and cooling off while studying the underwaterjump right in!