Blue holes: underwater formations that deserve a stopover

© Malou MONTESINOS

The Bahamas archipelago is home to a large number of blue holes, astonishing originalities of nature. These fascinating geological formations are a powerful attraction for all diving enthusiasts.

A big blue dot on the map

The Bahamians have one of the largest herds of blue holes in the world. Only China has a deeper one! Although there is nothing particularly mysterious about these holes, they are the subject of some local legends.

What does a blue hole look like?

Sometimes called "marine hole", it is an underwater cell, almost circular in shape, which owes its name to the dark blue color of its deep water. This one has the singularity to contrast strongly with the turquoise or the blond sand of the surroundings. In some cases, it gives access to chasms or underwater caves.

Deans'Blue Hole à Long Island
Deans' Blue Hole in Long Island

Who dug these strange drillings?

These cavities appeared during the last ice age of our planet. The sea level was then lower than it is nowadays. Caves were formed slowly, by simple erosion due to bad weather and the intense acidity of the rains. Then the sea level rose and the hollows naturally filled with water. Seen from the sky, these deep blue spots are particularly easy to see.

Unparalleled attractions for diving enthusiasts

These amazing mineral formations are a delight for those who are passionate about the underwater world. Whether it is simply equipped with fins, masks and snorkels, or compressed air tanks, all fans of the silent world are interested in the show. It is true that swimming in the company of harmless nurse sharks in a labyrinth of stalactites and other sculptural geological formations is a great moment, which we enjoy. Ideal to fill your head and heart with unforgettable memories!

Must-see blue holes in the Bahamas

The Dean's Blue Hole of Long Island is undoubtedly one of the most interesting specimens. Located in a bay west of Clarence Town, it was for a long time considered as the deepest in the world, with its 220 meters below the surface. Since then, a deeper blue hole has been discovered in China. Located in a lagoon bordered by white sand and tree-lined cliffs, the place is stunningly beautiful and easily accessible. It is equipped with a special facility in its center, which is used to set snorkeling records.

Andros is the most abundant island of the Bahamas, with more than 200 blue holes that allow the observation of flourishing reefs in which rays, murales and turtles evolve: a fairy tale! The " âeuroslost blue hole new Providence's "Blue Hole" is on the long list of places of particular interest, as is the Treasure Cay, on the island Great Abaco.

Shrimp Hole à l'intérieur de Long Island
Shrimp Hole in the interior of Long Island

If the Bahamas archipelago conceals an astonishing quantity of blue holes, other regions of the world also offer the unforgettable spectacle of these natural cavities. You can find beautiful ones in Belize, Malta, Egypt or China.

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