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Published: Friday, January 16, 2004 at:8:32 PM


Snorkeling at BEYC
Norman Island
Among the variety of snorkeling options offered at the Bitter End, the Norman Island trip consistently ranks at the top of the group. Climb aboard Corinthian for the hour long trip down the Sir Francis Drake Channel to reach Norman Island. As you enjoy the morning cruise you will see almost all of the major islands of the BVI: on your right-hand side Tortola describes the northern edge of the Drake Channel; on your left you will see Fallen Jerusalem, Round Rock, Ginger, Cooper, Salt and Peter Islands, as well as the infamous Dead Chest where pirates used to maroon mutineers. Rounding the western tip of Peter Island you will see Water Point on Norman Island and Pelican Island and the distinctive Indians slightly further west.
Your first stop will be near the Norman Island Caves. The waters here are teeming with fish. You can get in close to the caves along the Island, exploring the coral and rock formations. Youll likely see Sergeant Majors, Parrot Fish, Blue Tangs, Angel Fish, Squirrel Fish and maybe, if you are very perceptive, an octopus. After your first snorkel you will climb back on board and head over to the Indians or up to Kellys Bight for more time in the water. The Indians boast fantastic hard and soft corals and an abundance of marine life. It is not unusual to see turtles, eels, lobsters or rays in addition to more fabulous fish life.
After snorkeling you can enjoy lunch aboard Corinthian and head over to the Willy T for some Caribbean attitude adjustment before the trip home. For an unparalleled day of snorkeling, relaxing and fun, make sure you dont miss the Norman Island excursion on your next trip to the Bitter End. Well see you there!
Top Rated Destination
Last year, Rodales Scuba Diving magazine ranked the BVI the best snorkeling destination in the Caribbean, and Bitter End offers the best quality and variety of snorkeling in the BVI. With four different snorkeling options you can choose whatever suits you on any given day. On one of our full day excursions you can board Paranda, our 48' Spronk design racing catamaran, or Corinthian, our 59' double decker power catamaran, for a trip to Anegada, the Coral Gardens, Norman Island, Diamond Reef or the world famous Baths. Our trips go to the best of the BVI and youre sure to be taken to the finest spots by our knowledgeable and experienced crew.
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| Ponce de Leon |
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11 foot Boston Whaler |
If youre feeling a little less ambitious and want to stay closer to home, you can join Captain Kinto aboard Ponce de Leon for one of our shorter daily snorkel trips to any of the great destinations near the Bitter End. Eustatia Reef, Oil Nut Bay, Necker Island, the Invisibles, Cactus Point, and Mosquito Island are just some of the fantastic spots. The regular snorkel trip will take you out for just over an hour to any one of these given spots, or you can join the super snorkel that will take you to three different stops on one trip. There is no shortage of marine life to enjoy and Captain Kinto will make sure you have a great time.
Almost all of these local stops are also available to you if you choose to take out one of our 11 foot Boston Whalers instead. You can go snorkeling on your own, pack a lunch and a few cold refreshments and take a day to yourselves. Stop at Watersports and ask for a map of the local area. Well show you the great snorkel spots as well as some of the BVIs nicest beaches for relaxing.
Finally, if you dont feel like getting on a boat or youre just a beginner, why not head down to Wedding Point, on the South End of the property, and do a little snorkeling there? A very sheltered spot, Wedding Point has some colorful fish hiding in the rocks and coral. Dont forget to look toward the deeper water where you may see a tarpon cruising by.
Regardless of which option you choose, snorkeling at Bitter End Yacht Club is always great. Remember, we have fins available for all of our guests at the Watersports Center. You can either bring your own mask and snorkel or rent them from Kilbrides Dive Shop. Get ready to get wet on your next visitwell see you under the water!

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