[dropcap]A[/dropcap]s February arrives, El Niño has had an impact on Abaco and the rest of the Bahamas as it has had on Florida – and everywhere else, for that matter. Winter air and sea temperatures have been warmer and we have received more than average rainfall. It seems the days with gusty winds have been associated more with the effects from El Niño coming in from the west rather than the normal nor’easters approaching from the north. On the days we deem the reef is not suitable for diving, we are fortunate to have other dive sites that are accessible by land transportation, including coastal drift diving and inland blue holes.
Air temperature this year has been ranging from a pleasant 68°F at night to a warm 82°F during the day. Water temperature is currently 76° F, yet a wetsuit is recommended for that little extra layer of thermal protection. In addition to the colorful tropical fish that call the coral heads home, we have also been seeing sharks, spotted eagle rays, barracuda, grouper and turtles. As a reminder, Nassau grouper season remains closed through the end of the month.
The Full Snow Moon, also known as the Full Hunger Moon, occurs on Monday, February 22, 1:19 p.m.
For those of you simply looking for some sunshine or needing to escape the frigid North, February is a great time to visit Abaco before spring breakers and summer crowds. We highly recommend making reservations in advance. When not diving or snorkeling, there are many other activities to consider—renting a car for a day to explore the beaches and pine forests of Great Abaco, bird watching, bone fishing, island hopping and catching a ferry to one of the offshore cays—or just relaxing in a hammock and reading your favorite book. There is plenty to do or not do. We look forward to seeing you ‘on island’ soon.