Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute & Ocean Discovery Centre

40 Crow Lane,
Hamilton
Bermuda
441-292-7219

http://www.buei.org

Type: Water Sports
Cost: $ 9.75 for adults, $5 for children aged seven to 16; children six and under are free; $7.80 for seniors over 65

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The institute opened in 1997 to give the public an opportunity to explore the oceans around Bermuda to a depth of 12,000 feet. It’s one of the most comprehensive and exciting exhibits of its type anywhere. The highlight is a simulated, sevenminute “dive” to the ocean depths, taking the plunge with all the sights and sounds you’d experience if it were the real thing. Although seen through video screens instead of windows, the creatures you’ll encounter on the journey downward seem real. Besides the dive, there are lots more exhibits to explore, many of them interactive. Some interpret the history of underwater exploration in the islands and some offer an unusual look at Bermuda’s many shipwrecks. Others take a look at various types of underwater vehicles, including a full-size bathysphere as used by the indomitable Dr. Charles Beebe in 1934 while making his recordbreaking dive of more than 3,000 feet. Also interesting is Jack Lightbourn’s collection of more than 3,000 seashells. It is, perhaps, the most complete collection of its kind outside the great natural history museums of the world. Lightbourn began collecting seashells – like most of us do – as a child. But, unlike most of us, he didn’t quit. He just kept on and on, gathering them from all corners of the world, until finally deciding to donate them to the institute. Expect to spend two to three hours exploring the institute and museum. While there, take time out for a cup of java and a snack in the coffee bar or enjoy a great lunch at La Coquille from 11:30 am until 2:45 pm. And don’t miss the gift shops – here are two – where you’ll be sure to find that little something for the folks back home. The institute is wheelchair-accessible, as are the restrooms. Hours are 10 am-6 pm, Monday through Sunday, year-round except Christmas Day. Admission is $9.75 for adults, $5 for children aged seven to 16; children six and under are free; $7.80 for seniors over 65.