Bermuda Scuba Diving - Dangerous Denizons of the Deep

As always, there are dangers, natural and manmade, that you should take into consideration when stepping out of your natural environment. The following are some that you should be particularly wary of:

Sharks. The most feared predator of the deep, with a bad and, for the most part, undeserved reputation. Peter Benchley’s graphic movie, Jaws, based upon a fantasy of his own, has done much to enhance our natural fear of the shark. The truth is, the shark, like every other life-form on earth except man, kills only when hungry and rarely will it attack a human. Shark attacks are rare, especially in Bermuda. They say you have more chance of being struck by lightning, twice, than of being attacked by a shark. Even so, especially if you are unable to identify them, it’s best that you steer clear of all sharks you might see.

Note: Speaking of Peter Benchley, you might be interested to know that two of his books, "The Deep," and "Beast," are set in Bermuda.

Moray eels are nocturnal creatures and like very much to be left alone inside their chosen lair. There are a few that have become used to humans and their handouts, but most morays can, if disturbed or threatened, give you a very nasty bite. Stay at a respectful distance.

Barracuda. Not really dangerous, just scary-looking, especially their
rather frightening, ever-present grin. The sleek, silver tiger of the ocean is curious, however, and will often follow you around. If someone is feeding the local reef fish (which they shouldn’t),
be on the lookout for something bigger. A barracuda after his share of the pie attacks like lightning and, although he’s only after a handout, it might be a hand he takes.

Reef fish, such as the Black Hamlet, tend to be curious and, while they’re not dangerous, you might find them nipping at your fingers, toes and hair.

Rays, on the whole, are not dangerous. Tread on a stingray buried in the sand, however, and you’re probably in for a trip to the local hospital. The ray’s first reaction is self-preservation, and its natural instinct is to lash out with that murderous tail. Unless threatened or trodden on, rays are pretty much harmless and are fascinating to
observe as they flap over the sandy bottom. Watch where you put your feet.

Scorpionfish can often be found lying in wait on coral heads or close to the ocean floor. The thick spines on its back can inflict a nasty sting, but this will happen only if you startle one.

Sea urchins are the spiky little black balls that lie on the sandy ocean floor or in the nooks and crannies of coral heads in shallow water. Step on one with your bare feet at your peril. The spines are brittle, often barbed, and will give you a very nasty and painful experience. Fortunately, they are usually easy to see and can be avoided. Keep a sharp look out and don’t touch.

The stonefish, often hard to see due to excellent camouflage, can also give a nasty sting.

Jellyfish, transparent and often difficult to see, are mostly harmless. There are, however, some that are not and it’s best if you avoid them all.

Coral is often sharp and can become dislodged in cuts and abrasions, which will leave you in pain for a couple of days. Fire coral can be a problem, but only if you’re foolish enough to handle it. Try not to touch coral at all. Not only can it be dangerous, but it’s a delicate, living organism that can easily be damaged.

If you do happen to get stung by coral, jellyfish, orurchin, you can treat the sting first with vinegar,whichwill neutralizethe stingingcells. You shouldthen get ointment from the local drugstore to ease the pain.

Check here for a list of qualified dive operators

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Bermuda - How to Get There:

For visitors arriving by air, Bermuda is served by most US airlines and by international airlines from Canada and Europe. Bermuda is also a major destination for the cruise ship industry
 

Look for the best airline and car rental deals, and hot travel offers, with these three aggregators, which provide travelers with an up-to-date search tool to compare prices on travel, airfares and accommodations:

Look for the best deals and hot travel offers with these aggregators, which provide travelers with an up-to-date and comprehensive search tool to compare prices on travel, airfares, car rentals and accommodations:

Compare Rates for Flights to Bermuda.

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You can also use this link to check for Hot Travel Deals to Bermuda.

 

Know Before You Go!