The Bahama Platform is composed of 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.
Recently Paleontologist Gary Morgan has taken 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. More recently, 2010, Marc Laukien produced a short movie, a journey to "The Crystal Caves of Abaco". It's mesmerizingly beautiful and in Hi Def. Link below:
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The Crystal Caves of Abaco - 16 minute HiDef movie
from our video page.
◊ Aug 2010 National Geographic - some picts.
◊ Tragedy strikes. Wes C. Skiles, freelance photographer
for National Geographic Magazine dies after filming.
◊ Bahamas Caves Research Foundation.
◊ Bahama Caves, Key to Geologic timelines.
◊ Bahamas Underground - Technical Diving & Training.
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Or check out this July '07 Miami Herald Article.
