Moray Manor

The moray eels

Green moray eels are the undisputed stars of this reef, though their numbers have varied over time. These impressive animals can reach six feet in length, their muscular green bodies wedged into coral recesses with only their heads protruding. Opening and closing their mouths to breathe, they present a more menacing appearance than their typically docile behaviour warrants.

Morays are most active at dawn and dusk when they emerge to hunt. Daytime divers find them resting in the reef's many hiding spots, their presence revealed by a glimpse of green scales or the rhythmic gape of jaws. Spotted morays and goldentail morays also inhabit the reef, adding variety to eel encounters.

Coral architecture

The boulder star coral formations at Moray Manor rank among Grand Bahama's most impressive. These massive structures grow perpendicular to the coastline, creating walls of coral that slope from 60 feet to 80 feet depth. Their height and complexity provide habitat niches from the brightly lit upper surfaces to the shadowy recesses beneath overhangs.

Gorgonian sea fans and soft corals add colour and movement throughout the hard coral framework. Sponges in orange, purple, and yellow encrust the coral surfaces, creating a mosaic of colour that rewards wide-angle photography.

Marine life diversity

Beyond the moray eels, Moray Manor supports impressive biodiversity. Schools of yellowtail goatfish and grunts move through the coral canyons, while groupers claim territorial positions. French and queen angelfish display their spectacular colouration against the reef backdrop.

Loggerhead sea turtles visit the deeper sections of the reef, occasionally resting on the sandy patches between coral heads. The site's position on the south shore means relatively calm conditions most of the year, allowing leisurely exploration of the many reef features. The nearby La Rose wreck adds wreck diving options to visits.

Getting there

Moray Manor lies on Grand Bahama's south shore, reached by dive boat from Freeport operators in approximately 20 minutes. UNEXSO, Reef Oasis, and Grand Bahama Scuba include this site regularly on reef diving schedules. A permanent mooring buoy protects the coral from anchor damage. The nearby La Rose wreck allows combination reef-wreck dives when time and air allow.

Frequently asked questions

Will I definitely see moray eels at Moray Manor?

Green moray eels remain present throughout the reef, though populations have fluctuated over the years. Patient observation of coral crevices typically reveals at least one or two morays during a dive, but sightings cannot be guaranteed.

How big are the moray eels at this site?

Green morays can reach six feet in length, though most individuals observed are between three and five feet. Their thick muscular bodies make them appear even more substantial when wedged into reef openings.

Can the La Rose wreck be combined with Moray Manor?

Yes. La Rose sits approximately a five-minute swim south of Moray Manor. Many dive guides incorporate both sites into a single dive, though this requires good air management at the 80-foot-plus depths.