An island of mythical charm and tranquil beauty, Andros is the largest in The
Bahamas chain. It has possibly more dive and snorkeling spots than anywhere else
in the country, fantastic bone fishing and an abundance of diverse marine life,
flora and fauna. The Spaniards arrived in the 16th Century and called it 'La Isla del Espiritu Santo', the island of the Holly Spirit. Sometime in the 17th
century the Seminole Indians migrated from South Florida to Red Bay, on the West
Coast. Even today, a Seminole Indian tribe exists in this area, along with the
myths and legends.
Quiet and unpretentious, Andros has evolved into a virtual haven for scuba
divers and fishermen. The island is home to the oldest dive resort in the world,
the second largest reef in the western hemisphere and crystal clear waters,
which maintain a year round temperature of 80+ºF. The sheltered waters of the
reef average 6 to 15 feet, but eventually drop off into the depths of the Tongue
of the Ocean. Geologists speculate that this area was once a prehistoric
riverbed, similar to the Grand Canyon of Arizona.
Blue holes, found both inland and in the ocean waters off the coast, were formed
by water erosion and flooding at the end of the last ice age. The oceanic holes
connect to the intricate inland underwater cave system. The rushing tides create
a wet world of prolific and diverse marine life ideal for some tremendous diving
opportunities. Andros folklore tells of the Chickcharnee, a half man, half bird
like figure that protects against evil, but also of the island's own Loch Ness
Monster, the Lusca, a dragon like creature believed to lurk in the watery depths
of the blue holes.
For those who wish to explore the artistic side of the island, local Androsians
are known to create the only straw baskets that are actually waterproof. Locals
also pride themselves on the art of producing Androsia batik - a colorful print
fabric.
