Dive Site: The Strip

Dive site facts: The Strip

Depth

12 m (40 ft)

Current

Strong current possible

Visibility

20–30 m (65–100 ft)

Water temperature

22–29°C (72–84°F)

Entry

Boat access

Level

All experience levels

Dive type

Reef, night dive

Night dive

Possible, excellent

Region / port

Bimini, Bahamas

Coordinates

25.7361° N, 79.3328° W

Conditions & Currents

The Strip can experience strong currents, a factor divers must consider during planning and execution. It is crucial to monitor local current guidance and keep a clean, streamlined profile while navigating the reef. Dive operations typically employ a clear pickup strategy, which is essential given the potential for water movement. Divers should be mindful of staying close to the dive plan to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at this reef line, which is usually accessed via boat with guided trips.

Marine life & sighting chances

Barracuda

common

Moray Eel

common

Lionfish

common

Angelfish

common

Spiny Lobster

common

Butterfly Fish

common

Parrotfish

common

Crab

common

Snapper

common

Grunt

common

Nurse Shark

common

Green Turtle

occasional

Bottlenose Dolphin

occasional

Octopus

March · occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving at The Strip typically involves a boat entry, leading to a shallow reef at 12 meters (40 feet). The dive route usually follows the elongated, low-profile coral strip, allowing divers to explore its numerous ledges and overhangs. These features are rich with concentrated fish life, including large schools of grunts and snappers, various eels, and macro subjects. Divers often spend time scrutinizing these nooks and crannies, especially during night dives to observe nocturnal crustaceans and nudibranchs. The turn point is determined by air consumption and current conditions, ensuring a relaxed exploration. The safety stop is conducted in the shallow surrounding waters, typically over the sand and algae beds, before returning to the boat for pickup.

Underwater photography

The Strip offers diverse photographic opportunities, from wide-angle shots of schooling fish to macro capture of elusive critters. For wide-angle photography, a fisheye or wide lens is ideal to capture the dense aggregations of grunts and snappers, as well as the overall reef structure and occasional passing turtles or nurse sharks. Strobes are beneficial to bring out the vibrant colors of the coral and fish in the relatively shallow but often shaded ledges. Macro enthusiasts will find a wealth of subjects, including various eels, crustaceans, and nudibranchs, particularly during night dives, where focus lights and snoots can highlight individual organisms. Buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing the low-profile coral and to position correctly for shots.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Bimini Barge

  A deep wreck dive for advanced divers near the Gulf Stream.

• Turtle Rocks

  Shallow rock formations popular for diverse marine life, accessible to snorkelers and novices.

• The Sapona

  An iconic shallow wreck popular for snorkelers, beginners, and photographers.

• Tuna Alley

  A seven-mile wall featuring sloping terrain and pelagic sightings.

• Rainbow Reef

  Shallow ledges within a protected marine sanctuary, ideal for beginners.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Bimini is convenient, with major international airports in Nassau (Lynden Pindling International Airport) and Freeport (Grand Bahama International Airport) serving the Bahamas. From these, commuter planes or private speedboat transfers can reach Bimini. Many liveaboards exploring the Bimini area depart from Florida ports like Riviera Beach (near Palm Beach International Airport), offering easy access for travelers. Alternatively, resort-based diving is popular in Bimini, with local dive shops organizing daily boat trips to sites like The Strip. Trips can range from day excursions to week-long liveaboard itineraries, often combining several Bimini dive sites. Most dive sites do not require permits, but it's advisable to check with operators for any specific park fees or requirements.

Safety & environment

For diving in the Bahamas, a recompression chamber is available in Nassau. In case of a diving emergency at The Strip, evacuation would typically involve transport by boat to Bimini, followed by air evacuation to a medical facility in Florida or Nassau, depending on the severity and specific needs. Divers are strongly advised to have comprehensive dive insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation. Site-specific hazards at The Strip include potentially strong currents, requiring divers to adhere strictly to the dive plan and local guidance. Maintaining excellent buoyancy control is crucial to prevent contact with the low-profile coral formations. Always dive with a reputable operator, follow your guide's instructions, and ensure your dive skills are appropriate for the conditions encountered.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

The Strip FAQ

Liveaboards diving The Strip

These liveaboards may visit The Strip on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

All Star Blackbeards Morning Star

Bahamas

24 guests20 m

Bahamas Aggressor II

Bahamas

20 guests34 m

Blue Marlin

Bahamas

26 guests42 m

All Star Aqua Cat

Bahamas

30 guests31 m

All Star Cat Ppalu

Bahamas

12 guests20 m