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For those of you who don't dive...
The famous pink sand beach on the Atlantic side of Harbour Island exists largely thanks to the barrier reef that runs from the south end of the island all the way around to Spanish Wells and beyond. The same reef that protects the beach also provides incredible snorkeling opportunites for those wanting to see what lives beneath the surface. Ancient coral structures rise up for the sand, providing shelter and food for thousands of fish. Huge elk horn corals reach for the surface, and large purple sea fans can be seen breaking the surface at low tide.
Between Pierre Island and Spanish Wells, parallel to the north shore of Eleuthera, lies the section of reef know as 'The Devil's Backbone'. The 'Backbone' is so named because it is long and thin (like a backbone!), and has claimed so many ships (hence the 'Devil'!). On the inside of the 'Backbone' are large reefs in shallow water that provide great snorkeling opportunities for beginner and experienced snorkelers alike. Outside the reef lie three wrecks that are great for proficient snorkelers and novice divers. The Carnarvon is a Welsh freighter that serviced the lighthouses in the Bahamas for the British Admiralty. It went down in 1918 after striking a shallow reef head, and lies in 35ft of water. The top of the steering quadrant is just 8 feet below the surface, and the huge bronze propeller is still attached to the shaft. The 'Potato and Onion wreck lies just over the Backbone, with the bow in 6 feet and the stern in just 28 feet of water. This freighter (that was carrying...wait for it...potatoes and onions!) is popular with both divers and snorkelers. The Cien Fuegos is a steam passenger ship that went down in 1898 and lies broadside to a large, shallow reef-head (see why it is called the Devil's Backbone?!) in 35 feet. The boilers are home to a couple of large green morays, and eagle rays are regularly seen cruising overhead.
For those of you who prefer to appreciate the ocean from a distance, or simply like the idea of enjoying being out on a boat without being too energetic, we offer island-hopping and beach-picnic charters (have your hotel prepare you a delicious packed lunch and we will provide the setting!), and sunset cruises. Beach picnics are popular with families as you have the boat to yourselves and can hang out on a beach, go snorkeling, hang out on the beach some more, all at your own pace. Sunset cruises are popular with wedding parties and reunions looking to have cocktails out on the water as the sun sets over Eleuthera.
Call or email us to discuss options. It is your vacation: do what you want, at your own pace!
We offer two Eco-tours for those wishing to discover the incredible marine life that inhabits the waters around North Eleuthera. Our two-hour tour takes you to one of the beautiful coral systems close to Harbour Island. Our four-hour tour takes you to two coral systems, and includes a picnic lunch on a secluded beach.
Your in-water guide will show you the incredible diversity to be found, and will gladly help those for whom this is a first-time snorkel experience.
Sunset cruises run for approximately 2 hours starting at $350 for the boat.