Sharks do exist in Bermuda’s waters. Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, the islands are part of a vast, healthy marine ecosystem that naturally includes apex predators. While various species inhabit the deeper waters surrounding the island chain, they are seldom encountered near the shoreline. The vast majority of these animals remain far offshore, making sightings close to the popular pink-sand beaches uncommon. Understanding the unique marine geography is key to grasping why these powerful ocean inhabitants are present but largely stay out of sight.
Defining Bermuda’s Marine Environment
Bermuda sits atop a massive, submerged volcanic seamount that rises dramatically from the deep ocean floor. This structure is capped by a limestone platform, which supports the world’s northernmost coral reef system. The reef line acts as a natural boundary, where shallow waters extend only a short distance before the seafloor plunges rapidly into the abyss, a feature often called the “drop-off.”
This abrupt transition from shallow platform to deep oceanic water is a primary reason the area attracts large, pelagic marine life, including migratory sharks. The island also sits just east of the powerful Gulf Stream current. Eddies from the Gulf Stream frequently reach Bermuda, bringing warm water and a rich supply of prey species that fuel the local food web and attract larger predators. Offshore areas like Challenger Banks and Argus Banks become magnets for transient species due to the abundance of fish in these deep-water zones.
Common Shark Species Found Near Bermuda
The waters around Bermuda host a diverse range of shark species, categorized into those that inhabit the shallow reef system and those that migrate through the deep open ocean. Smaller, resident species include the Galapagos shark and the Caribbean reef shark, which are sometimes spotted near the outer reefs and deep banks. The docile nurse shark, a bottom-dwelling species, is also present in shallow coastal areas, though sightings are relatively infrequent.
Larger species typically travel through the open Atlantic, only occasionally passing close to the Bermudian platform. Tiger sharks are the most well-known large species, often spotted offshore, and they migrate to the Caribbean in winter, returning when the water warms. Other significant pelagic travelers include the oceanic whitetip shark, the blue shark, various hammerhead species, and Great white sharks. Great whites are recorded in the area, typically well offshore during the cooler winter and early spring months, preferring the deep water.
Shark Encounters and Human Safety
Shark encounters in Bermuda are rare because the animals’ feeding grounds and migration routes keep them well away from inshore swimming areas. The vast majority of species, particularly large pelagic ones, spend their time beyond the drop-off and the extensive outer reef system. Historically, the island has maintained a safe record; the last recorded shark attack was a spearfishing incident in 1975.
While occasional inshore sightings of species like hammerheads have occurred, these events are uncommon and the animals generally pose no threat unless provoked. Swimmers can reduce potential risk by following standard ocean safety protocols. It is advised to avoid swimming at dusk or dawn when many sharks are actively hunting. Also, stay clear of areas where fishermen are cleaning catches or discarding bait. Adherence to local warnings and being aware of your surroundings are sensible practices when enjoying the clear waters of Bermuda.