Dive Site: Jakes Hole

About Jakes Hole

Jakes Hole is a notable dive site located in the southern end of Eleuthera, an island within the Bahamas archipelago. It stands out among the many dive sites accessible via liveaboards exploring the northern Exuma Cays and Eleuthera. This site is characterized by its distinctive topography and vibrant marine ecosystem. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of fish and potentially larger pelagic species, typical of the rich Bahamian waters. The clear, warm waters of the Bahamas, often with minimal current, contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable diving experience at sites like Jakes Hole. The dive conditions in the Bahamas generally offer excellent visibility and comfortable depths, making sites such as Jakes Hole suitable for a range of divers. Liveaboard operations frequently include this site in their itineraries, providing ample opportunities for exploration. It's one of the destinations that highlights the expansive and diverse underwater landscape available beyond day-trip ranges.

Dive site facts: Jakes Hole

Current

Minimal to gentle

Visibility

24–30 m

Water temperature

22–29°C (72–84°F)

Entry

Liveaboard tender

Level

All levels

Dive type

Reef, wall

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Eleuthera, Bahamas

Coordinates

25.2150° N, 76.4380° W

Conditions & Currents

Currents in the Bahamas are generally described as minimal, especially in many reef and wall dive sites, contributing to an easy diving experience. However, conditions can vary, and some areas like the Exumas can experience swift drifts or tidal exchanges. Visibility is often exceptional, ranging from 24 to 30 meters (80 to 100 feet), but it can be reduced after heavy rainfall, particularly in nearshore environments. Water temperatures are consistently warm, ranging from 22°C (72°F) in winter to 28°C (84°F) in summer, minimizing the need for thick wetsuits. Divers should always be prepared for varying conditions, especially if a site is prone to tidal influences, but Jakes Hole typically benefits from the generally calm Bahamian waters.

Marine life & sighting chances

Caribbean reef shark

Year-round · common

Nurse shark

Year-round · common

Tiger shark

Occasional · occasional

Hammerhead shark

Occasional · occasional

Lemon shark

Occasional · occasional

Bull shark

Occasional · occasional

Nudibranch

occasional

Tiny crustacean

occasional

Sea turtle

occasional

Flamingo Tongue snail

occasional

Barracuda

occasional

Eel

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

A typical dive at Jakes Hole, often accessed via liveaboard, begins with a descent from the tender directly onto the reef structure. Divers usually follow the natural contours of the site, exploring the walls and coral formations characteristic of Eleuthera's underwater landscape. The dive progresses along a depth suitable for varied certification levels, taking advantage of the generally mild currents to minimize exertion. Turnaround is typically planned based on air consumption or depth limits, ensuring a safe ascent. The safety stop is conducted at 5 meters (15 feet) for three minutes, often providing an opportunity to observe smaller reef inhabitants in the shallower sections.

Underwater photography

Jakes Hole and similar sites in the Bahamas are excellent for wide-angle photography, especially given the consistently clear waters. A fisheye lens is recommended to capture the expansive reef topography or any larger pelagic encounters. While sharks are common throughout the Bahamas, bring strobes to enhance color and definition, particularly for reef scenes. Maintain excellent buoyancy control to avoid damaging the delicate coral structures, and be mindful of your fin kicks to prevent stirring up sediment, which can reduce visibility for both you and your fellow photographers. If exploring macro life, consider a dedicated macro lens, particularly during the wet season when smaller subjects are often a focus.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Cobia Cage

  Another dive site in Eleuthera

• Premo Wall

  Another dive site in Eleuthera

• Split Coral Head

  Another dive site in Eleuthera

• Monolith Wall

  Another dive site in Eleuthera

• Pillar Wall

  A top Exuma Cays dive site

Getting there & logistics

Accessing Jakes Hole typically involves flying into Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau. From Nassau, liveaboards such as the Aqua Cat depart, offering 7-night itineraries that explore the northern Exuma Cays and the southern end of Eleuthera, where Jakes Hole is located. It's recommended to arrive in Nassau a day prior to embarkation to avoid travel delays. Port fees of approximately $395 are typically payable on location for liveaboard trips. These trips combine multiple dives daily, including wall, reef, and drift dives, allowing extensive exploration of remote sites like Jakes Hole that are inaccessible to day boats.

Safety & environment

Diving in the Bahamas, including at Jakes Hole, is generally safe, but divers should carry comprehensive dive insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation. The nearest recompression chamber is likely in Nassau, emphasizing the need for robust medical coverage for any incidents occurring in more remote areas like Eleuthera. Liveaboard crews provide detailed briefings on site-specific conditions and safety protocols. Divers should always dive within their certification limits, maintain excellent buoyancy, and ensure proper gas planning. Given the presence of sharks, which are accustomed to divers in the Bahamas, always follow the dive guide’s instructions to ensure respectful and safe interactions with marine life.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Jakes Hole FAQ

Liveaboards diving Jakes Hole

These liveaboards may visit Jakes Hole 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