A novel water sport of its kind, Helmet diving in Bermuda has been entertaining the tourists for over sixty years. It provides a vivid picture of the underwater marine life of Bermuda. Bronson Hartley popularized helmet diving , first starting it in 1947. It is said that Bronson Hartley first built his diving helmet when he was only 10 years old. Subsequently he improved his invention to create the famous Hartley Diving Helmet.
Helmet Diving expeditions in Bermuda are usually of two types:
Bermuda Bell Diving : In this type of helmet diving , the divers first board the Cameron, a Admirals launch. Once a shallow sea site is reached, a ladder assists the divers to enter the sea equipped with a dive helmet. The expedition usually lasts for 25-30 minutes while the diver walks across the sea bed, witnessing the marvelous underwater world.
Hartley's Undersea Walk, Bermuda : This type of helmet diving is run by Greg Hartley, son of the reputed marine biologist Bronson Hartley. The entire trip is for three and half hours with thirty minutes underwater exploration. The Hartley's Diving Helmet functions like a glass inverted upside down. The open end is held down by the lead. Divers can also wear glasses or their contact lenses. The divers can easily walk on the sea floor with the helmet on.
Helmet Diving in Bermuda can be a unique adventure, calling for the experience of a lifetime. Bermuda angelfishes and Tropical parrotfishes swimming amidst the azure blue crystal clear water and the beautiful coral reefs is sight to treasure.
