AQUATIC ADVENTURES

Bermuda has a rich and deep maritime history, which is unsurprising considering no matter where you are on the island, you ’re never too far from the sparkling azure abyss.

BY ROBYN BARDGETT

From the traditionally built Bermuda sloops running trade across the open ocean to navigating vessels around the treacherous reef line that surrounds the island, the ocean has played a significant role in helping the island to flourish despite its seeming remoteness in the middle of the Atlantic. Here and now, though, any vacation to the island needs to include some form of aquatic adventure; and no matter what your fancy — whether relaxing, taking in the immeasurable undersea wonders, or participating in high-octane thrills — there is something for everyone on, near, or under the water.

Above The Blue

The island is a veritable playground for saltwater lovers, and one way you can get out on the ocean is with the aid of an experienced captain on any variety of vessel. With seafaring in their blood, there is no shortage of knowledgeable mariners to show off the island’s coastal delights. Maybe under sail on a 65-foot catamaran with a glass of champagne in hand is your pleasure of choice. If you’re more inclined to spend time in the water, charters can be organised with a variety of water toys such as kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear. Or, if you’d prefer to see the wonders down yonder without getting wet, a trip aboard a glass-bottom boat might be more your pace.

NOT SURE WHERE TO START?

THE INDISPENSABLE MAPS OF BERMUDA GUIDE IS AVAILABLE DIGITALLY AT WWW.VISITBERMUDANOW.COM.

With Bermuda’s temperate climate, there are year-round ocean-going offerings that will certainly delight just as much as a mid-summer’s sunny day. In March and April, humpback whales pass through the Sargasso Sea as they migrate north. During their passage, they often spend time playing along Bermuda’s south shore — oftentimes less than a mile offshore — so it is well worth a trip out to catch an aweinspiring glimpse of them. On a smaller scaler and a little closer to shore, though no less mesmerising, the sight of glow worms, which can be spotted dancing just under the surface of the water a couple of days after the full moon, can add a little sparkle to an evening cruise.

Bermuda’s waters are also teeming with marine life and game fish from wahoo to amberjack and tuna (both blackfin and yellowfin and, if you’re lucky, a rare giant bluefin) to blue and white marlin. Fishing charters are available year-round for half-day, three-quarter-day, or full-day trips; and no matter what your experience level, you’ll have no trouble getting hooked up with the wealth of knowledge from Bermuda’s fishing captains.

Those wishing to explore Bermuda’s bays and beaches on their own can head out in a rented boat, and most watersport outlets have a variety of vessels, whether you’re heading out with a larger gathering on a 23-foot pontoonstyle boat or you’re looking to dip in and out of some of Bermuda’s hidden coves and beaches on a 13- to 16-foot Boston Whaler.

Adrenaline Rush

For those who prefer to get their blood pumping, take a ride on the wild side on a banana boat adventure or zip around on a Jet Ski tour. Visitors can also use Bermuda’s prevailing winds to their advantage and speed along on adrenaline-fueled board sports, including wind foiling and windsurfing. You can also take a spin high above the Great Sound on a parasail, where you’ll catch panoramic views of the island and spy reefs, pink beaches, forts, and the colourful buildings that make the island of Bermuda so unique. Or maybe you want to take part in one of Bermudians’ favourite pastimes: cliff jumping.

To kick it up a notch and get a little more physical whilst enjoying the water, there’s no better way to explore the harbours, coves, and inlets than by kayak or paddleboard. Kayaks with glass bottoms can also be rented to really get a glimpse of the undersea life.

The Wonders Of The Deep

If you prefer to get up close and personal with the underwater environment that surrounds the island, whether snorkelling or with a certified PADI diver, you can explore from closer to shore or go a little deeper by heading out on a charter boat. Several beaches across the island provide concession stands where you can rent snorkels, and you won’t have to swim too far before you are surrounded by yellow and black–striped sergeant majors, multicoloured neon parrotfish, and angelfish; and, if you’re lucky, you might even spy a sea turtle munching on seagrass or an octopus hiding out amongst the swaying purple sea fans. There are plenty of other wonders to delight in, including a profusion of vibrant corals. Take a tour out to one of Bermuda’s most epic coral reefs, North Rock, on the most northern edge of Bermuda’s reef platform 10 miles off the shoreline. There, you’ll get the chance to see some of the Bermuda water’s grander fish species and ancient undersea formations with the tops of the reef just a few feet below the water.

Jet Ski Adventures

• Rated #1 in Jet Ski Tours by visitors and locals alike. (Several Jet Ski Adventures to choose from + private tours)

• Charter your own private boat with Captain (23ft to 65ft) Swim, snorkel, cruise, watch a sunset, visit a beach, & more

• Parasail in Bermuda

• Bike Tours and Kayak Eco Tours

• Plan your own adventure on one of our Boston Whaler Boats or Pontoon Boats - Quality boats at great rates

• Snorkeling Tours

• Banana Boat Tubing for ultimate fun

• Reservations are advised

Outside of natural undersea wonders, Bermuda is considered the “wreck capital of the Atlantic,” laying claim to more than 300 shipwrecks that have succumbed to the island’s treacherous reefs that ring much of the island. There are about 40 of these iconic sunken ships, some dating back to the 1600s, that are worth exploring on a dive, including the Hermes, the Mary Celeste, the Cristóbal Colón, and the HMS Vixen www.kswatersports.com Call 441.232.4155 or BOOK ONLINE on Website

• Open daily from 8am-7pm

INSIDER’S GUIDE

With so many sporting adventures to fill your itinerary, you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for in Bermuda. Here are our top picks for what to do.

Bda Watersports

Robinson’s Marina, Somerset Bridge

Middle Rd., Somerset Tel: 234-0914 www.bdawatersports.com

At Bermuda’s longest-running watersport facility, they offer a vast array of waterbased activities that are bound to quench your thirst for adventure. Whether it’s traversing Bermuda’s turquoise waters at high speeds on their tailored Jet Ski tours, cruising the mangroves on a self-driven pontoon boat, or getting close to nature on one of their iconic clear kayaks and paddleboards, the choices are endless. Join them and bring the whole family for an experience you’ll be talking about for years to come.

CAPTAIN KIRK’S CORAL REEF ADVENTURES

Dockyard Watersports Centre

Royal Naval Dockyard, Sandys Tel: 232-KIRK (5475) www.kirksadventures.com

Captain Kirk’s Coral Reef

Adventures offers a huge range of boat tours and private charters. Daily tour options in the summer include snorkelling, glass bottom and sightseeing, fishing, evening cruises, and even a brandnew water park onboard the MV Longtail. These tours all depart from Royal Naval Dockyard, and there’s an option for any budget or any type of traveller. The fleet is also available for charter; with nine different boats to choose from — including a brand-new 65-foot catamaran, Good Vibrations; a 55-foot glass-bottom motor cruiser, Bottom Peeper; and, of course, for the royal treatment, step aboard MV Elizabeth Her simple elegance sets it amongst the most luxurious destinations in Bermuda, and she is equipped to make your experience both magical and memorable — your options are endless. Their smaller boats are perfect for intimate settings, and their larger boats come equipped with a full bar, stereo system, lights, and an upper- and lower-deck dance floor for a great party atmosphere. These boats are perfect for celebrating your special events like birthdays, weddings, themed parties, and even whale watching. Get in contact to start arranging your dream tour or charter today.

CASTAWAY CHARTERS

Tel: 505-0855 www.castawaybermuda.com

Join a tour or book a private charter. Castaway Charters offers regularly scheduled group snorkel tours, and they are available every day for private charters. They operate in the East End of Bermuda and frequent the secluded beaches and sandbars of Castle Island, an area that may be considered the most beautiful place in Bermuda.

Experience snorkelling on pristine reefs and shipwrecks inside the Nonsuch Island nature preserve or enjoy sunsets whilst hanging out with the turtles in Bailey’s Bay. Please call them for more information or to make a booking.

HAKUNA MATATA

CHARTERS

Tel: 505-1611

Facebook: Hakuna Matata

Fishing Bermuda

Instagram: @hakuna_matata_charters

Welcome to Hakuna Matata Charters, Bermuda’s top charter boat. A 51-foot custom Carolina, Hakuna Matata will get you out to the fishing grounds fast and in comfort. With over 55 years of experience between Captain Scott Barnes and his father,

Michael Barnes, their team knows how to get you on the fish! Hakuna Matata Charters also offers cruising charters, birthday parties, booze cruises with friends, office parties, or just a fun day out on the beautiful waters of Bermuda. Hakuna Matata will give you the best day on the water with the best crew and on the best charter boat in Bermuda.

Hakuna Matata: it means no worries!

Island Tour Centre

Dockyard Watersports Centre

Royal Naval Dockyard, Sandys Tel: 236-1300 www.islandtourcentre.com

This is Bermuda’s No. 1 provider of recreational sightseeing tours, activities, and charters. With over 25 years of local tour experience, countless options, easy online reservations, and a conveniently located booking office, Island Tour Centre is the first stop for your best Bermuda vacation experience ever. Choose from unbeatable snorkelling opportunities, awardwinning eco- and adventure tours, leisurely sightseeing excursions, informative island explorations, and boat cruises to suit every taste imaginable. If you prefer to explore on your own, their knowledgeable staff can assist you with boat rentals and private charter options — from pontoon boats to yachts, they have it all. Visit their website, call, or drop by their booking office, which is conveniently located within walking distance of the bus, ferry, and Dockyard cruise ship terminals. cocktail cruises glass bottom tours snorkeling fishing shipwreck snorkel sunset cruises catamaran sailing private parties sightseeing weddings floating water park speedboat rides booze cruises call: 441-232-KIRK info@kirksadventures.com www.kirksadventures.com kirksadventuresbermuda kirksadventures captain kirk’s coral reef adventures

K.S. WATERSPORTS (TOURS, RENTALS & CHARTERS)

Dockyard Watersports Centre

Royal Naval Dockyard, Sandys Tel: 441-238-4155

Waterlot Inn Dock

Middle Rd., Southampton Tel: 441-236-4155

Hamilton Princess & Beach

Club Marina

76 Pitts Bay Rd., Pembroke Tel: 441-232-4155

On the waterfront at the White Horse Pub & Restaurant

8 King’s Square, St. George’s Tel: 441-297-4155 www.kswatersports.com

Get ready to have the time of your life with K.S. WaterSports, Bermuda’s No. 1 watersports company for fun and adventure and awarded the Tripadvisor “Travellers’ Choice” award eight years in a row. They offer Jet Ski tours, parasailing, boat rentals, private boat charters, kayak and bike ecotours, snorkelling excursions, banana boat tubing, and more out of four locations across Bermuda.

Jet Ski Tours and Safaris: Experience a thrill of a lifetime on their amazing Jet Ski Adventures, rated one of the best tours and fun activities to do in Bermuda. Their friendly, fun, and knowledgeable guides will show you shipwrecks, historic landmarks, beaches, and more. Some of their Jet Ski tours explore hidden coves to spot sea turtles, snorkel vibrant coral reefs and underwater marine life, or take you to popular cliff jumping spots around Bermuda’s coastline. With the best Jet Ski rates in Bermuda, several exciting Jet Ski adventures to choose from daily, plus two-hour and threehour private Jet Ski tours available, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Instructions are provided to all participants to ensure a safe and memorable experience. All ages welcome. Must be 16 years or older (by law) to drive a Jet Ski.

Parasailing: Experience the high-flying thrill, panoramic views, and pure excitement of parasailing. Soar over Bermuda’s crystalclear waters aboard the Thrill Seeker. This powerful winch boat allows you to take off and land without getting wet, unless, of course, you request a dip. The professional crew assures you of a safe and memorable experience. Suitable for ages 5 years or older.

Banana Boat Tubing: Looking for the ultimate thrill ride? Hop aboard the inflatable banana tube and be pulled by a high-speed boat around the Great Sound. You’ll be surrounded by spectacular views and turquoise waters, but you’ll probably be more concentrated on holding on tight whilst your banana boat bounces on the waves and twists and turns on this adrenaline-packed ride! Fun for all ages and great for groups and families looking for adventure.

Snorkelling Excursions: Join one of their popular two-stop snorkelling boat excursions, offshore snorkelling adventures, or two-hour Jet Ski and snorkel safaris. All great for beginners and experienced snorkellers who want to explore Bermuda’s amazing underwater marine life and coral reefs. Private snorkelling tour and charter options are also available. Quality snorkel gear is provided, and group sizes onboard are mostly smaller compared to other tour providers, giving you a more personalised snorkelling experience.

Kayaking and Biking Ecotours:

Join one of their popular kayaking tours or bike tours where adventure and discovery of Bermuda’s history and uniqueness are at the forefront. Whether paddling around the coves and bays on a double kayak or pedalling the railway trails and paths to see key landmarks and hidden gems, these tours give you and your family a fantastic way to experience and learn about the many wonders of Bermuda. Suited for all ages and skill types.

Pontoon and Boat Rentals:

Plan your very own adventure by renting a brand-new 13-foot or 16-foot Boston Whaler boat or a larger 23-foot premium pontoon boat. Whether half- or full day, beginner or experienced driver, their instructors will have you up and ready to captain your own boat in no time so you can head out on the water and explore Bermuda at your own pace and leisure. A detailed map with routes and points of interest to see is provided. Enjoy quality boats at the best rates, from multiple locations.

Private Boat Charters:

Are you looking for that amazing Bermuda on-the-water experience? Then privately charter one of their premium charter boats ranging from 23 feet to 65 feet long, which are perfectly priced for groups, families, and friends who want to relax, cruise, and explore Bermuda’s waters, islands, and beaches in style and comfort. Swim, snorkel, cliff-jump, tour the coastline, picnic, spot sea turtles, enjoy a sunset, and more. Your dedicated captain will customise your charter experience to suit all your needs.

Kayaks and Paddleboard Rentals:

For something a little slower paced and still very fun and exciting, try renting one of their brand-new kayaks or paddleboards, which are perfect for all ages and skill levels.

INSIDER’S GUIDE

Longtail Water Park

Heritage Wharf

Royal Naval Dockyard, Sandys Tel: 747-2204 / 234-2193 www.kirksadventures.com

Spend a day aboard the MV Longtail floating water park on Heritage Wharf. With three waterslides, a brand-new floating obstacle course, and, of course, a three-storey diving board, what’s not to love. The kids will have endless fun all day long. They also offer a full cash bar, so the adults can stay hydrated, too! Fun for the whole family. Need a breather for an hour or two? No problem. Check out the rest of Royal Dockyard and what it has to offer, have a bite to eat, then head back and enjoy even more fun. Your entry ticket is for the day, and you may go back and forth as much as you please. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., May through September.

SNORKEL PARK BEACH CLUB & NIGHTCLUB

Royal Naval Dockyard, Sandys Tel: 705-2582 www.snorkelparkbeachbermuda.com

Conveniently located one block or two minutes from the Dockyard cruise ship port. Spend an amazing, relaxing day sunbathing, swimming in beautiful turquoise waters, or snorkelling in the crystal-clear lagoon. Dip into the shallow reefs as you explore undersea marvels, including sunken British cannons and a variety of colourful fish and sea life. Enjoy their DJs and/or live music, games, and attractions for both kids and adults of all ages. Snorkel Park Beach Club truly is your destination for everything you need for the day — from beach bars serving a variety of local specialities and exotic refreshments

BY NICK BAILEY