Dive Site: Stargate Blue Hole

About Stargate Blue Hole

Stargate Blue Hole, located in South Andros, is a renowned inland blue hole celebrated for its distinctive light effects, where sun rays penetrate its wide opening to illuminate the underwater environment. This geological wonder is part of the extensive network of blue holes found throughout the Bahamas, particularly concentrated on Andros Island, often called 'the holy grail of blue hole diving.' Blue holes are vertical underwater caves formed over millennia by rainwater dissolving limestone, offering a glimpse into ancient cave systems. Stargate features interconnected chambers and passages that have been documented in underwater films, making it a captivating site for exploration. While the main shaft is accessible for advanced divers, horizontal tunnels extending from it require technical cave diving certification. The entrance is a hole in the ground, about 20 feet above the water level, requiring a giant stride entry. Below the surface, divers encounter a hydrogen sulfide layer before reaching clearer depths. Diving in blue holes like Stargate varies, often involving a descent through a freshwater layer before encountering saltwater, creating a shimmering halocline effect. Unlike ocean blue holes, inland sites are protected from wave action, offering consistent conditions. However, reaching Stargate, especially from Central Andros, can involve light aircraft travel and local ground transport, highlighting its remote, pristine nature. Visibility inside blue holes can range dramatically, with surface layers sometimes murky from decaying vegetation, but becoming 'gin clear' at deeper levels, potentially exceeding 200 feet in some Bahamian blue holes. Water temperatures remain warm year-round, typically ranging from 24-29°C (75-84°F). This site offers a distinct challenge and reward for divers seeking unique subterranean exploration.

Dive site facts: Stargate Blue Hole

Depth

Unknown, multiple chambers and passages

Typical dive

Variable based on certification

Current

None

Visibility

Variable, clear at depth

Water temperature

24–29°C (75–84°F)

Entry

Giant stride from ledge

Level

Advanced to Technical Cave Certified

Dive type

Blue Hole, Cave

Night dive

Possible (with appropriate certification and guide)

Region / port

South Andros Island

Coordinates

24.71, -77.76

Conditions & Currents

Stargate Blue Hole, being an inland blue hole, is largely unaffected by ocean currents, tides, or surge, providing a relatively stable diving environment. However, due to its vertical shaft, rapid pressure changes during descent necessitate frequent equalization. Water clarity can vary; surface layers might exhibit murkiness from decaying vegetation, while deeper sections are typically crystal clear, offering visibility that can extend beyond 200 feet in the wider Bahamian blue hole context. There are generally no thermoclines in Bahamian waters, though a slight temperature difference between surface and deeper water (around 2-3°F) might be noticed. Divers should be prepared for a halocline, a shimmering visual effect, where freshwater meets saltwater at certain depths. Entry is a giant stride from a ledge 20 feet above the water, and exit involves climbing out, potentially with local as

Marine life & sighting chances

Remoras

occasional

Barracuda

occasional

Caribbean reef sharks

rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Entry into Stargate Blue Hole is a distinctive giant stride from a ledge approximately 20 feet above the water. Upon entering, divers descend into the main shaft. The initial descent may pass through a layer of hydrogen sulfide and a halocline where fresh and saltwater mix. The dive typically involves exploring the wide opening and the various interconnected chambers that branch off. For those with appropriate cave certification, the horizontal tunnels extend further into the system. The route allows for an exploration of the unique lighting effects created by the sun's penetration. Depth progression depends on certification and planned exploration, with deeper sections requiring technical training. The turn point is determined by gas limits and diver comfort within the overhead environment. Safety stops are conducted in the open-water section of the blue hole near the surface, allowing for decompression in the calmer upper layers before exiting the water, often with assistance for gear retrieval.

Underwater photography

Stargate Blue Hole presents exceptional opportunities for underwater photography, particularly for wide-angle shots to capture the unique sunbeam effects and the vastness of its chambers. Photographers should bring powerful external strobes and constant video lights to illuminate the darker sections and bring out the textures of the limestone formations, especially when venturing into the interconnected passages. Due to the wide entry, ambient light is strong at the surface, but rapidly diminishes with depth, making lighting crucial. A fisheye or wide-angle lens is ideal for conveying the scale of the blue hole and its dramatic lighting. Buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing the fragile environment and silting up the water, especially in enclosed spaces. For capturing the halocline effect, a focus on the interface between water layers can yield ethereal images. Consider using models to add a sense of scale to the massive formations and light shafts.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Guardian Blue Hole

  A technical cave dive reaching 436 feet with extensive passages.

• Cousteau's Blue Hole

  A deep hole with an overhang at 50 feet, suitable for gear checks.

• Andros Barrier Reef

  The world's third-largest barrier reef, offering diverse marine life and wall dives.

• Tongue of the Ocean Wall

  Dramatic wall dives accessible from Andros, plunging into deep abyssal trenches.

• Great Blue Hole Andros

  One of the many blue holes scattered across Andros Island.

Getting there & logistics

Accessing Stargate Blue Hole typically involves travel to Andros Island, often via smaller domestic airports after flying into major Bahamian hubs like Lynden Pindling International Airport (Nassau) or Grand Bahama International Airport (Freeport). From Central Andros, reaching Stargate in South Andros often requires a short flight via a light aircraft, as there are no direct road connections between the two regions. Local taxis or guides then provide ground transport to the blue hole, which is often a short walk from the road. Liveaboards operating in the Bahamas may include Andros on their itineraries, but direct blue hole dives often necessitate land-based operations for specific access. It's advisable to factor in the time and logistics for these internal transfers and ensure local guides are arranged, especially given the remote nature and potential for unmarked trails leading to inland blue holes. There are no explicit park fees mentioned for Stargate, but local guide fees apply.

Safety & environment

Diving Stargate Blue Hole requires a strong emphasis on safety due to its overhead environment and potential depths. Divers must possess appropriate advanced or technical cave diving certifications and experience. Redundant lighting systems are essential for any cave penetration, adhering to standard cave diving protocols. Equalization should be frequent due to rapid pressure changes in the vertical shaft. It is crucial to dive with a local guide familiar with the specific blue hole to navigate its passages and for general safety. The nearest recompression chamber is located on San Salvador Island, highlighting the need for robust dive insurance and emergency preparedness, as evacuation from remote South Andros could be complex. All divers should ensure their training aligns with the dive site's demands and follow all instructions from their guide. Maintain excellent buoyancy control to prevent silting and damage to the environment.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Stargate Blue Hole FAQ

Liveaboards diving Stargate Blue Hole

These liveaboards may visit Stargate Blue 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