About Cathedral
Cathedral is a renowned dive site located within the Dog Rocks Reef, which is part of the extensive Exuma Cays in the Bahamas, specifically situated off the coast of Scotland Cay. This site gains its name from magnificent, cathedral-like swim-throughs, where shafts of sunlight penetrate the water, creating a mesmerizing spectacle akin to stained-glass windows. This underwater architecture is formed by a reef that begins at around 10 to 11 meters and gradually slopes to 15 meters before dramatically plunging into the depths of the Exuma Sound. The iconic swim-throughs are particularly captivating, often filled with thousands of shimmering silversides that reflect the light, resembling sparkling jewels. This abundance of baitfish attracts a high concentration of marine life, including various groupers and jacks that frequent the area to feed. The wall itself is adorned with vibrant black coral, orange elephant ear sponges, and tube sponges, indicating a thriving coral ecosystem. Keep an eye out for larger pelagic species such as graceful eagle rays and different shark species that are frequently observed just off the wall. The site's structure allows for exploring caverns and swim-throughs, offering diverse underwater landscapes. While the Exuma Cays offer a wide depth range, this particular site emphasizes the shallower reef and wall sections. Liveaboards typically visit Cathedral, providing multiple guided dives, including potential night dives. Divers should be comfortable with boat entries and navigating reef structures. Average water temperatures range from 25-28°C in summer to 24-27°C in winter, with visibility often being excellent.
Highlights
Dog Rocks Reef structureCathedral-like swim-throughsThousands of reflecting silversidesFeeding groupers and jacksLarge black coral standsOrange elephant ear spongesFrequent eagle rays sightingsVarious shark species
Best Season
The period from November to May is considered peak season for diving in the Bahamas, offering the best visibility which can extend up to 40 meters, along with generally calm seas. While this period is also known for sightings of tiger sharks and hammerheads in other areas, the consistent conditions are ideal for exploring sites like Cathedral. June and October represent shoulder seasons, still suitable for diving with reef sharks and nurse sharks, though seas might be slightly rougher.
Dive site facts: Cathedral
- Depth
- 10–15 m
- Current
- Moderate
- Entry
- Liveaboard only
- Level
- Beginner
- Dive type
- Reef, Cave & cavern, Wall, Drift
- Region / port
- Bahamas
- Coordinates
- 24.3312° N, 76.6575° W
Conditions & Currents
Currents at Cathedral are typically described as minimal or average, making it accessible for divers of all levels. However, moderate currents can occasionally be present, so divers should be prepared for potential drift entries and exits, and maintaining proximity to the group is advisable. Visibility is generally good, enhancing the experience of the light-filled swim-throughs and vibrant reef. There is no specific mention of thermoclines or significant surge. Boat entry is the standard method for accessing this site. Given the typical conditions, it's suitable for open water certified divers, though being comfortable with boat dives and potential mild drift is beneficial for maximizing enjoyment.
Why dive Cathedral from a liveaboard?
Cathedral is one of Bahamas's signature dive sites. A liveaboard sleeps you on the water and puts you in the water for three to four guided dives per day, including dawn and night dives that day-boat operators rarely offer. You skip the daily commute back to port and reach quieter, less-crowded sites in the same region on a single trip.
Below are the liveaboards that include Cathedral on their Bahamas itineraries.
Liveaboards diving Cathedral
These liveaboards may visit Cathedral on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.
All Star Blackbeards Morning Star
Bahamas
24 guests19.81 m
$156/day
Bahamas Aggressor II
Bahamas
20 guests33.5 m
$328/day
Blue Marlin
Bahamas
26 guests42 m
$318/day
All Star Aqua Cat
Bahamas
30 guests31.09 m
$312/day
All Star Cat Ppalu
Bahamas
12 guests20 m
$237/day
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© Esri — Maxar, Earthstar, GIS
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© Esri — Maxar, Earthstar, GIS
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© Esri — Maxar, Earthstar, GIS
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- Liveaboard or dayboat
- Depth
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