UNDERWATER
EXPLORERS
SOCIETY
UNEXSO is known as the most established dive center in The Bahamas. We will be relaunching our diving program, alongside a new education and research lab.
UNEXSO LAB PACKAGES
If you are interested in seeing what happens backstage, you can sign up for one of our UNEXSO Lab packages.
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Educational Visits
At Sanctuary Bay, we offer immersive educational experiences for schools, where students can explore marine biology, wildlife conservation, and the fascinating world of native Bahamian wildlife.
Contact us for information
STORIES FROM THE LAB
Keep up to date with latest news from The Lab.
Anyone who loves the ocean in Grand Bahama will inevitably find their way to UNEXSO.
Alannah Vellacott, Marine Scientist
PERRY INSTITUTE FOR MARINE SCIENCE
UNEXSO has partnered with the Perry Institute of Marine Science to support coral restoration efforts in The Bahamas through the planting of coral domes. This collaboration aims to enhance local marine ecosystems and promote long-term reef recovery, ensuring a sustainable future for the region's coastal and marine life.
Guests of Sanctuary Bay will have the exclusive opportunity to witness the coral restoration efforts firsthand, experiencing the beauty of these growing reef ecosystems up close.
DIVING PACKAGES
We specialize in crafting concierge diving itineraries designed to offer you a truly exceptional underwater explorer adventure. Returning soon!
Wreck Dive
RETURNING SOON!
Shark Dive
RETURNING SOON!
UNEXSO Concierge Diving
RETURNING SOON!
UNEXSO HISTORY
PIONEERING DIVING EXPERIENCES
Opening its doors in 1965, UNEXSO was one of the first organizations to offer recreational scuba diving in the Bahamas. UNEXSO wasn’t just ahead of its time—it set the standard, becoming the prototype for the modern dive resort.
INNOVATIVE ATTRACTIONS
UNEXSO introduced a series of groundbreaking experiences that set it apart as a leader in marine adventure tourism. Since 1982, they have pioneered marine experiences, launching a cave diving course, the region’s first Dolphin Experience in 1987, and Ben Rose’s groundbreaking Shark Encounter course in 1991.
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
Peter Benchley completed his diving certification at UNEXSO in 1970, where he saw his first shark—an experience many believe inspired him to write Jaws. However, he later regretted the film's negative impact on shark reputations and became a passionate advocate for their protection.
CUTTING EDGE INNOVATION
On 1971, an underwater habitat called the ‘Hydrolab’ was installed a mile off the Lucayan Beach, manufactured by Perry Oceanographics. Its purpose was the study of undersea ecology, biology, geology and medicine. Aldrin returned to the island to spend the night in the underwater pod.
A GLOBAL CREATIVE INSPIRATION
Paul Mockler came to film the Hydrolab, made the island his home, and later produced Zeus and Roxanne (1997) while contributing to several dolphin and wildlife films, including Flight of the Aquanaut (1992) and Free Willy 1 & 2 (1993).
The exploration of the seas is not the private domain of the scientist, nor the industrialist, nor the military, nor the diving sportsman. Its pursuit belongs to all people.
UNEXSO, Al Tillman 1966
DECADES OF MEMORIES
UNEXSO carries the legacy of being one of the first seven places in the whole world to introduce the concept of recreational scuba diving, the first to create the alternate air source supply and the first to invent the discover scuba diving, allowing thousands of people to experience the underwater world and inspire them to pursue a full certification.
Cristina Zenato
PADI Course Director,
Shark Ecologist & Behaviorist