As the home of one of the longest running dive operations, Stella Maris, you know Long Island in the Bahamas must boast some great diving. The island itself features shallow reefs with some deeper sites on the western wall. It’s also home to the world’s deepest blue hole and a few historically important wrecks.
Additionally, Long Island is a great jumping off point for Conception Island and Rum Cay. These islands host coral walls populated by a colorful array of marine life. While it is possible to access a number of the shallow reefs from shore, the majority of diving around Long Island takes place from small speedboats.
Most of the dive sites are within a five to ten-minute boat ride from shore, but Conception Island and Rum Cay require a longer journey.
The Bahamas enjoys a hot and sunny climate year-round. Air temperatures during the summer months range from 75-91°F (24-33°C) while water temperatures are approximately 88°F (31°C). Air temperatures during the winter months range from 65-77°F (18-25°C) while water temperatures are 75-80°F (24-27°C).
November to May is the dry season in the Bahamas. During these summer months, you can expect sunny, hot and mildly humid conditions.In addition to great topside conditions, November to May is also the best time for shark diving. During these months, you have the best chance of encountering dozens of Caribbean reef sharks at Long Island.
There are two airports on Long Island, namely Deadman’s Cay Airport and Stella Maris Airport. Both welcome scheduled daily flights from Nassau. Charter flights are available from the United States.
Otherwise, you’ll need a boat to reach the island. Weekly mail boats travel between the Bahamas, and a ferry departs daily from Nassau.
Find. Book. Dive
Technical Diving
Freediving
Emergency First Response
FREE – Introduction to Scuba Diving Online
Marine Debris
Shark & Ray Protection
Adopt a Dive Site
