Four Blue Holes to Drop Into
Whether you call them vertical caves, sinkholes, or blue holes, one thing is for sure - they're unique, beautiful and interesting. Here are 4 beauties to explore.
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What Is a Blue Hole
The term Blue Hole is used for a sinkhole that's filled with water and has an entrance below the water level. It's generally used for water-filled sinkholes in the ocean, while the term cenote is used for freshwater-filled sinkholes.
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Great Blue Hole, Belize
Top of the list because it's the most famous. At the center of lighthouse reef, this circular blue hole is nearly 1000 ft across and 407 ft deep (124 m). It draws divers across the world for its often crystal clear waters, interesting stalactite formations, and the bull and hammerhead sharks that often circle its perimeter.
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Dahab Blue Hole - Red Sea
Notorious for diving fatalities, the Dahab Blue Hole is considered one of the most dangerous dive sites in the world. It's not as deep as others, but around 170 ft (52 m), there's a tunnel that leads to the open sea. Many divers that try to find it on their own, without proper guidance or training, end up dying in the process. As with any dive, stay within your training limits, and there's nothing to be worried about.
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Dean's Blue Hole - Bahamas
At 663 ft deep (202 m), Dean's Blue Hole holds the record as the deepest one. Located off Long Island, Bahamas, it has an initial diameter of 82-115 ft (25-35 m), but around 70 ft down it widens out to a gorgeous cavern with a 330 ft (100 m) diameter.
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Blue Hole - Gozo, Malta
Suitable for all levels of divers and snorkelers, the Blue Hole in Malta starts in an easy, 33 ft (10 m) wide pool alongside a scenic archway. On the way down, divers can access a crevice that leads to the open sea following cool formations. Morays, parrot fish, octopus, and more can be found inside and immediately outside the crevice.
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Pick One or Dive Them All
Each of the Blue Holes are unique in their own right. No matter which one you choose, you're bound to have a profound diving experience, capture some incredible images, and have amazing stories to tell.
