The Aquarium at O'Brien's Cay

The underwater scene

The site features a miniature wall formation dropping from shallow water to around fifteen feet, with healthy coral heads, sea fans, and sponges covering the structure. Fish congregate here in remarkable density — you may find yourself surrounded by schooling yellowtails, curious sergeant majors approaching within arm's reach, and parrotfish grazing on coral.

Eagle rays, green turtles, and octopi are regularly sighted in the area, adding to the sense of snorkeling inside a living exhibit.

Park protection and etiquette

The Aquarium lies within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, the oldest marine protected area in the Caribbean. Fishing, feeding fish, and removing anything from the water are strictly prohibited. These regulations explain the exceptional fish density and their willingness to approach snorkelers.

Mooring balls are provided — use them rather than anchoring to protect the reef. Snorkel gently, avoid standing on coral, and take only photographs.

Timing and access

The site is best snorkeled at slack tide when currents are minimal. Strong tidal flows move through the Cambridge Cay area, so plan accordingly. Visibility is typically excellent, often exceeding fifty feet.

Access is by dinghy from nearby anchorages at Cambridge Cay (about 2.3 nautical miles) or Bell Island (about 1.2 nautical miles). Look for the mooring balls marking the snorkel site.

Getting there

The Aquarium lies on the northwest side of O'Brien's Cay, accessible by dinghy from the Cambridge Cay mooring field (approximately 2.3 nautical miles) or the Bell Island anchorage (approximately 1.2 nautical miles). Navigate carefully around coral heads and use the provided mooring balls rather than anchoring. Plan your snorkel for slack tide to avoid strong currents.

Frequently asked questions

Why are there so many fish at The Aquarium?

The site lies within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, where fishing has been prohibited since 1958. Decades of protection have allowed fish populations to thrive and become habituated to snorkelers.

Do you need to be an experienced snorkeler?

No. The Aquarium is shallow (around 15 feet) with calm conditions at slack tide. It suits beginners comfortable swimming in open water. Strong currents occur away from slack tide, so timing matters.

Can you anchor at The Aquarium?

No. Use the provided mooring balls to avoid damaging the reef. Anchoring on coral is prohibited within the marine park.