Christopher Columbus landed on the Bahamian Island of San Salvador; now it’s for divers to explore

When Christopher Columbus finally made landfall on San Salvador, he was so grateful for the 63-square-mile island that he named it “Holy Savior.” More than 500 years later, this beautiful Bahamian isle remains as remarkable as when the famous explorer first set eyes on it.

The welcome wagon is waiting when I splash down with Seafari International (seafaridiving.com). Upon descent, I’m greeted by a host of ­Nassau grouper eager to make my acquaintance. From rocky, coral-capped ledges, lobsters and crabs wave. Then the reef sharks arrive. They come in close to say hello, gliding between divers, as cool as a sea cucumber. After introducing themselves, they hang out, accompanying us like dutiful divemasters throughout the dive.

San Salvador has more than 35 moored dive sites, many of which are part of the national park system of the Bahamas. The island is the tip of an ­underwater mountain that rises from 15,000 feet below. Its geography gives its underwater terrain a rocky texture filled with crevasses and outcroppings that eventually give way to a stunning drop-off.

Besides the wall, San Sal is also well-known for hammerheads — they’re the main subject of conversation between divers. We didn’t spot any on our morning dives, but my guide, Chloé Desilets, offers some advice. “Before going into the water, I like to pray for turtles and hammerheads,” she tells our group. “So let’s take a moment to pray and then go look.”

Our piety pays off. Within 10 minutes of ­starting the next dive, our group swims through a crack in the reef toward the wall. Upon exiting, I turn back to check on my buddy when I see it: a 5-foot ­scalloped hammerhead approaching from behind. He casually eyes our group as he passes, and we all watch in awe as he disappears into the blue. When I reflect on our good fortune, I can only wonder: Is this how Columbus felt when he sighted this tropical oasis?

Treat Yourself

For the perfect ­complement to an adventurous dive vacation, unwind and relax with an appointment at the resort’s luxurious L’Occitane spa. Choose from a wide array of soothing facial and body treatments, and feel all of your travel stresses melt away.

Getting Wet

Diving is an additional fee (single dives start at $85), but the convenience of Seafari’s on-site dive center is well worth it. The knowledgeable crew and two catamarans make trips twice a day. Rent gear, or stow yours in a provided locker by the dock.

Out and About

With so much to do and see, you’ll never have a boring surface interval. Excursions are available for those who want to venture beyond the resort. Follow in Columbus’ footsteps while touring the island, go deep-sea fishing, or enjoy a barbecue lunch on a private island.

Dive Conditions

Temperatures range between 75 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit; visibility averages more than 100 feet.

When To Go

Diving in San Salvador is year-round, but Columbus Isle closes in September and October during hurricane season.

What To Wear

In the cooler months, a 3 to 5 mm suit will be more than enough for most scuba divers.

Travel Tip

Club Med offers a direct flight to and from Miami on Saturdays; stay the whole week and take advantage of this arrangement both ways.