Blue Water Divers & Watersports (Robinson’s Marina, Somerset Bridge, tel. 441/234-1034, www.divebermuda.com [1]) has been leading dive expeditions for more than 30 years. Its qualified guides lead a two-tank dive ($105), which departs at 9 a.m. daily, followed by a one-tank dive ($65) in the afternoon. Scuba enthusiasts often want to do both, with a soup lunch at the marina in between. Dive packages can also be arranged (5 two-tank dives, or 10 dives, $400). There are numerous interesting shipwreck dives off the West End, many in shallow reef-laden waters, including the 1881 North Carolina, the 1943 Hermes, and the Maria Celestia, a U.S. Civil War blockade-runner that sank in 1864 (the vessel’s paddlewheels remain intact).
Somerset Bridge Watersports (Robinson’s Marina, Somerset Bridge, tel. 441/234-0914) rents Boston Whaler motorboats and personal watercraft by the half and full day, great for exploring the West End by water.
Bermuda Waterski Centre (Robinson’s Marina, Somerset Bridge, tel. 441/234-3354 or 441/335-1012, open May–Sept.) is run by Bermudian über-athlete Kent Richardson, an accomplished triathlete and expert skier. He gives group or individual lessons aboard his Ski Nautique in the Great Sound or off the West End, depending on the weather. Lessons are $90 for a half-hour and $180 for an hour-long session. Richardson also offers snorkel tours and general sightseeing outings.
Run by Fantasea Bermuda, Surfshack at 9 Beaches resort (tel. 441/239-2999, www.9beaches.com [2]) boasts kiteboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, motorboat rentals, personal watercraft, sailboats, snorkeling gear, rafts, pedal boats, and floating lounges. Located off Daniel’s Head, a stunning peninsula with, yes, nine beaches, the area boasts shallow bays and crystal-clear water perfect for any of these activities. A waterside restaurant and bar are also located here.
Links:
[1] http://www.divebermuda.com
[2] http://www.9beaches.com