Beginning just off the tip of Florida, and stretching southeast for about 600 miles, is a magnificent necklace of legendary diving islands that includes The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos. Separated from the Caribbean Sea by the large islands of Cuba and Hispaniola, The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos are technically in the Atlantic Ocean. Even so, no discussion of Caribbean diving could omit them.

THE BAHAMAS
Twenty-five islands, or island clusters, plus a multitude of smaller islets, make up the divers’ paradise known as The Bahamas. The underwater terrain includes numerous wrecks, lush coral reefs at all depths, dramatic walls and drop-offs. Breathtaking blue holes are found off many islands, especially Andros. Colorful sponges and tropicals are everywhere and encounters with large marine life include rays, groupers and dolphin experiences of many kinds. The shark diving ranges from predictable, yet casual reef encounters, to close-up feedings that will knock your fins off, such as those off Long Island, New Providence, Grand Bahama and Walker’s Cay.

TURKS AND CAICOS
A visit to the Turks and Caicos islands is a visit to a kinder, gentler time. Even on the most developed island of Providenciales, nature holds sway. The diving normally begins on shallow spur and groove terrain, leading to deeper water and the eventual wall. West Caicos diving features a potpourri of experiences, including encounters with sharks and Eagle Rays. Depending on where you dive off Providenciales, you can experience everything from walls to pinnacles to swim-throughs. South Caicos wall diving is just offshore, and huge, gentle stingrays frequent certain small coral heads. Grand Turk diving is also only minutes from shore, and groupers and black coral are specialties. You might even run into a Manta Ray or Humpback whale. Finally, there are live-aboard dive boats that can offer you the best of Turks and Caicos diving —all in one trip.