Bermuda’s Niobe Corinthian: An Unforgettable Wreck Dive
- Written:
- By Christian Llewellyn
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Introduction to the Niobe Corinthian wreck
The SS Corinthian/Niobe Corinthian is a purpose-sunk wreck located 12 miles northwest of North Rock Beacon off Bermuda’s northern coast, resting at 70 feet (21 meters) depth. Originally a 175-foot oil-rig support vessel built in 1967, it later served as a controversial floating casino before being deliberately sunk in 2017 to create an artificial reef. Now part of Bermuda’s protected dive sites programme, it offers divers an accessible wreck with intact structures, contributing to marine conservation and tourism.
The Story Behind the Niobe Corinthian
Constructed in 1967 by Shell Oil as a 1,000-ton oil-rig tender, the Niobe Corinthian was refitted in 2005 to operate as a casino ship 12 miles offshore, exploiting international waters to circumvent Bermuda’s gambling laws. After police raids in 2006 seized illegal gaming machines and subsequent legal disputes, the vessel fell into disrepair. A 2007 fire and failed business ventures led to its abandonment until the Bermuda government seized it in 2014.
In April 2017, following a $300,000 preparation funded by the Stempel Foundation, the ship was towed to its current location and sunk upright after controlled flooding. Though it tilted precariously during sinking, it settled correctly on the seabed northwest of North Rock Beacon at 32°27’31.46″N, 64°47’8.16″W. The site now forms part of the Bermuda Dive Sites Programme, with a 200-meter no-fishing zone to protect Marine life.
The Stats: Depth, Conditions & Accessibility
12m
Minimum Depth
30m
Maximum Depth
Boat Dive
Dive Type
30m
Visibility
Mar – Nov
Season
22°C - 28°C
Water Temp
Where Is The Niobe Corinthian?
The Niobe Corinthian wreck is located 12 miles off the northern coast of Bermuda, a popular region for diving due to its rich marine life and numerous shipwrecks. Divers typically access the site via boat from one of Bermuda’s ports, with Hamilton City being the closest major city. The nearest airport serving the area is L.F. Wade International Airport, which has regular flights from the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe. Divers planning to visit the site often arrange dives through local dive shops, which offer full services including gear rental, boats, and guided tours.
My Experience Diving The Niobe Corinthian
Diving the Niobe Corinthian with a diverse group from Bermuda, USA, Canada, UK, and South Africa, hosted by Dive Bermuda At Grotto Bay, was an unforgettable experience. The giant stride entry from the boat into the clear waters signposts the beginning of an intriguing dive. The visibility was unusually good, around 40 meters which is exceptional for this location. As this is one of the newest wrecks in Bermuda, the clean and intact exterior of the wreck, still lacking significant marine growth, made for impressive wide-angle photographs. This dive is not just about visuals; navigating through the wreck poses a slight challenge due to fine silt within, making delicate frog kicks essential to avoid disturbing the silt. The internal structure, full of restrictive corridors and stairwells, was exploratory, though I would recommend keeping to larger groups outside or entering with a local guide or specific wreck diving training.
We had a surface interval of around 45 to 50 minutes, enjoying tea, coffee, and lovely cookies, discussing the wreck’s colourful history as a casino and even a bordello operating offshore to evade authorities. Our journey back was marked by stunning views of Bermuda’s coastline, featuring colonial forts and luxurious yachts, enhanced by sightings of dolphins and the iconic long-tailed tropicbirds.
My Experience Photographing the Niobe Corinthian
Photographing the Niobe Corinthian was as challenging as it was thrilling. Using a Nauticam housing paired with two Inon Z240 strobes and 4600k filters, I managed to capture some stark contrasts and vibrant scenes. Particularly noteworthy was capturing the signal light on the top deck, enveloped by yellow fire coral—a challenging shot due to its shallow position and brilliant natural sunlight filtering through the blue waters. The clear conditions and lack of significant marine growth allowed for stark, unobstructed images that truly showcase the wreck’s imposing presence.
What You’ll See: Wreck Features & Marine Life
Upon diving the Niobe Corinthian, divers are greeted by its largely intact structure. Rather than the typical coral-encrusted surfaces, you will find cleaner lines and an almost pristine condition of the walls due to its relatively recent sinking. Notably, the wreck serves as a safe haven for numerous lobsters, which are protected under Bermudan law; my personal count exceeded 25 on this dive alone! Although few corals have established themselves, the wreck is already becoming home to diverse marine life. Seasonal visits might unveil further progress in this burgeoning underwater ecosystem.
Recommendations for Diving the Niobe Corinthian
1. Get certified for wreck penetration beforehand if you plan to explore inside the wreck.
2. Use delicate frog kicks inside to avoid disturbing the silt.
3. Dive in smaller groups when penetrating tight spaces.
4. Begin your dive by exploring the open areas like the bridge for easy navigation.
5. Watch for the abundant lobsters but remember not to disturb them as they are protected.
6. Consider diving with a local guide who knows the wreck well.
7. Ensure good buoyancy control to prevent damage to the wreck and to the visibility around you.
8. Look out for different marine life that is starting to make the wreck their home.
9. Keep an eye on your air supply, especially when exploring inside due to the depth.
10. Always carry a torch even during daytime dives for better visibility inside the wreck.
Tips for Photographing the Niobe Corinthian
1. Use wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur of the intact wreck.
2. Employ strobes with color filters to enhance the natural colors submerged.
3. Plan your shots ahead to avoid kicking up silt and ruining visibility.
4. Take advantage of the natural light for shallow shots.
5. Be patient and wait for the sediment to settle if disturbed.
6. Focus on smaller, intricate details like fire coral on deck features.
7. Always respect the environment and avoid touching or moving any part of the wreck.
Practical Dive Info & Booking a Trip
Dive Bermuda At Grotto Bay offers trips to the Niobe Corinthian starting around GBP £110 (approximately USD $135 or EUR €125). For those passionate about marine conservation, it is important to adhere to rules set to protect the biodiversity of this site, including no-fishing zones and respecting local wildlife statutes.
My Rating & Final Thoughts
Diving the Niobe Corinthian was an extraordinary experience that balanced historical intrigue with exceptional underwater photography opportunities. Although it is a new addition to Bermuda’s diving scene, it promises great potential for both ecological growth and diver enjoyment. My rating for this dive site is a strong 9 out of 10, primarily for its pristine condition and vivid marine activity.
9/10
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The visibility around the SS Corinthian wreck site tends to be good, usually ranging from 50 to 80 feet, making for clear underwater exploration. Currents can vary, so checking local conditions or consulting with your dive operator right before the dive is advisable.
Due to the wreck’s location in deeper waters, it’s recommended for advanced divers. Always dive with a buddy, monitor your depth and air supply closely, and be mindful of your no decompression limit. A dive light and a knife can be useful for safety and navigating the wreck.
Divers can expect to encounter a plethora of marine life including large groupers, schools of snappers, and colorful parrotfish. The structure of the wreck itself serves as an artificial reef, attracting various species of corals and sponges.
Due to the depth and potential for strong currents, a dive computer, suitable wetsuit for thermal protection, and an underwater flashlight are essential. A redundant air source like a pony bottle could enhance safety.
Divers should avoid touching or taking anything from the wreck to preserve its historical value. Be cautious of your fins to prevent disturbing sediment or marine life. Always follow the guidelines outlined in your dive briefing.
The best time to dive the wreck is during the Bermuda summer, from May to October, when the water temperatures are warmer and the sea conditions are most stable.
Many reputable dive operators in Bermuda can provide guided tours to the SS Corinthian wreck. It’s best to choose operators who are experienced with deep and wreck dives, as they will provide necessary support and briefings.
Diving this historic wreck can be a profound experience, stirring a sense of connection to maritime history and the passage of time. The ambiance of the ocean and the life thriving in and around the wreck adds to this unique and reflective dive experience.
Yes, the SS Corinthian/Niobe Corinthian offers excellent opportunities for underwater photography, particularly the structural details of the wreck and the vibrant marine life it supports. Good lighting is key, so a strobe or underwater light is recommended.
Night diving is possible but should only be undertaken by those with extensive experience in night and deep wreck diving. The wreck takes on a different character at night, and divers can observe nocturnal creatures and bioluminescent phenomena.
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