Bimini, Bimini, Bahamas

Bimini Barge

The Bimini Barge is a 50-meter steel barge intentionally sunk off the northwest coast of Bimini as an artificial reef, sitting upright in roughly 25 to 30 meters of water. The flat deck and open hold are easy to navigate, and the structure has accumulated decades of marine growth — sponges, hard corals, and gorgonians cover the railings and deck plates. Resident life includes large grouper that have made the wreck their home, schools of horse-eye jacks circling above the deck, scrawled filefish, and barracuda patrolling the perimeter. Caribbean reef sharks are commonly seen along the surrounding sand, and the occasional bull shark or great hammerhead passes through during the winter season. The depth and current profile make it appropriate for intermediate divers with comfort at deeper recreational depths. Visibility is typically very good thanks to Bimini's proximity to the Gulf Stream. Penetration is possible for advanced divers given the open holds and limited internal hazards. The barge is a regular stop on Bimini multi-day liveaboard rotations and pairs well with shallower reef sites for the second tank of the day. Photographers enjoy the contrast between the encrusted geometry and the surrounding blue water.