B l u e H o l e s
from Sandy Estabrook’s Guide to the Abacos, Bahamas
These blue hole photos were taken by myself at a location near Treasure Cay. From the Green Turtle Ferry dock head south on the main Abaco road. In approximately 2.6 miles there is turn off to the left. You will find the blue hole after about 500 yards. The water is sapphire blue and over 200 feet deep at this location. Now that we've told where it is, please respect the environment and don't throw anything in the blue hole.
The Blue Holes of Abaco
The Bahama Platform is composed primarily of limestones of shallow water marine origin. Add to this the entire region was considerably affected by sea level changes during the period of the Pleistocene Ice Age, The water level change encouraged the cave development that exists today. These numerous caves and sinkholes in the Bahamas and especially the Abacos occasionally reach depths of 300 feet, representing the lowest sea level from those times. These water-filled caves and cavities in the Bahamas are known as "Blue Holes" due to their predominant coloration. Such caves may occur in the interior of islands. (Inland blue holes which can be more greenish in color and reflective of their surroundings as seen in our photos shown here.) They are more common in shallow waters on the banks as marine or ocean blue holes. The Bight of Old Robinson near Little Harbour has quite a few in its shallows which are accessible by dinghy. Their perimeters make for some interesting snorkeling. Diving these holes is another story and although popular is only for the most experienced divers. Only a couple years ago in Abaco, there occurred two fatalities on just such a dive.
Paleontologist Gary Morgan took up residence in the Abacos to study the remains of prehistoric creatures found in the depths of one such Blue Hole called the Sawmill Sink located in south Abaco. He is assisted by diver Brian Kaluk and project coordinator Nancy Albury. While under exploration the area is off limits to the public. Marc Laukien produced a short movie, a journey to "The Crystal Caves of Abaco", it's linked below. It's mesmerizingly beautiful and in Hi Def. 2012 saw almost frenzied activity by scientists because it was determined that the deep microbial waters in blue holes could be similar to those on the outer planets and moons of our solar system. Want to know more, Google "Abaco blue holes similarity planets" and stay tuned.
ARTICLES:
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the Nat Geo.
◊ The underwater realm that inspired James Cameron's 3D film. Sanctum
◊ Tragedy strikes. Wes C. Skiles, freelance photographer
for National Geographic Magazine dies after filming.
◊ Research by Florida Museum ornithologistDavid Steadman
◊ Bahamas Caves Research Foundation.
◊ Bahama Caves, Key to Geologic timelines.
◊ Bahamas Underground - Technical Diving & Training.
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Abaco Friends of the Environment.
VIDEOS From our Video Page
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The Crystal Caves of Abaco - 16 minute HiDef Documentary from our video page.
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"Blue Hole Environmrnt - Chapter 2, of the "Three Park Story", a HiDef Documentary
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