A tiny uninhabited coral cay about 1.5 kilometres off the south shore of Grand Bahama, Peterson Cay is surrounded by what many local dive operators consider the best snorkelling near Freeport. The reef fringing the island is shallow, clear, and accessible to swimmers without scuba gear — brain coral, star coral, gorgonian fans, and a dense population of reef fish including parrotfish, angelfish, and sergeant majors.
Boat trips to the cay depart from Port Lucaya and take about 20 minutes. The island itself is bare coral with a few shrubs; the attraction is entirely the water. Bring a picnic, snorkelling gear, and sun protection — there is no shade and no facilities. The trips typically spend two hours at the island, which is enough for thorough snorkelling and a swim. Morning departures have the calmest water and best visibility.