The word 'Bermuda' is mostly associated with Bermuda Triangle, the supposedly dangerous shipping lane that 'swallows' ships and aircrafts that by-pass it. A lot of paranormal/extraterrestrial activity is associated with the region. US government does not recognize the name 'Bermuda Triangle' and has discounted the stories associated with it as mere fabrications by people with creative imaginations.
On the Northern tip of this popular triangle in the North Atlantic is the Bermuda Islands that were discovered by a Spanish sailor, a Juan de Bermudez after whom the Islands are named. They are also called the 'Somers Isles' and are part of the British Overseas Territory. The nearest land to the Islands is Cape Hatteras in North Carolina, about 1030 kilometers away.
The Islands are in the North Atlantic Hurricane Belt and this might perhaps explain the rumors about the Bermuda Triangle. There have been a lot of shipwrecks in the area due to hurricane. In fact, Bermuda thrives on two industries - tourism and offshore insurance. It has the highest per capita income in the world.
The major tourist activity is wreck diving where tourist dive in shipwreck areas where ships such as Cristobal Colon(1936), The Sea Venture(1609), Taunton(1902), Constellation(1943), San Pedro's cargo(1596) and many more are located.
The most famous dive sites include; Madiana, Xingda, Cristobol colon Tauton, Iristo, Rita Zovetta, Pelinaion, The Kate, Pollock Shields, Hermes, Minni Breslauer, Mary Celesta, Noth Carolina, Blanche King, Darlington, L'Hermine, Constellation, Montana, Latington and Caraquet. Note that all these sites are named after the ships that sank there.
Divers are always advised to be in the company of the local divers. You do not want to dive into these waters just when the hurricane is approaching. Always make sure that you are safe. It is also important to ensure that you have all the gear that is required for wreck diving. Most of the wreck dive areas are not easily accessible and may require for you to have an oxygen tank and protective clothes that are above average. Make sure that you also carry an underwater camera. If you cannot afford one, there are numerous shops in Hamilton, Bermuda’s Capital, that are willing to rent them. A wreck dive is a good history lesson in sea travel safety.
