Stuart Cove’s Snorkeling Excursion | Atlantis Bahamas Insider Tips

I had heard glowing reviews about snorkeling in the Bahamas, so I decided to roll the dice on an adventure during my recent summer trip to Atlantis. I booked a half-day excursion with Stuart Cove’s Snorkel Bahamas for my 15-year-old daughter and me. The trip came with free hotel pickup and drop-off and included three snorkel sites in one excursion—definitely a winning hand!

We were picked up at 8 AM from Atlantis. I didn’t expect the bus ride to take nearly an hour, as it made stops at several other resorts to pick up fellow “players.” The lively crowd and Nassau scenery made the ride enjoyable, like a scenic jackpot of island views.

At the dive shop, registration was quick, and we boarded the boat. The crew was friendly and helped us with fins and snorkel masks. I had originally bought our own gear but opted to use Stuart Cove’s thinking it might be “upgraded.” Lesson learned—all snorkel sets are pretty much the same! The provided equipment was clean and fine, but next time I’ll bring my own to avoid the “shared gear” factor.

About 15 guests were on board as we set off to our first snorkeling site: the famous Hollywood Bowl. The boat ride was choppy—an open boat, not the standard double-decker—and yes, we got soaked! But just like a high-stakes spin at the casino, the thrill was worth it.

The water at Hollywood Bowl was breathtaking: shades of turquoise that shifted with every step, sparkling in the sun like a sea of emeralds and sapphires on a roulette table. As we jumped off the ladder, fins in place, we were surrounded by colorful fish of all shapes and sizes—truly a jackpot of nature. The clarity and beauty of the water made it feel unreal, like hitting a perfect hand against all odds.