December diving is outstanding as the visibility continues to improve with the cooler water temperatures, typically in the mid to upper 70s with visibility better than pool water. The cooling waters bring explosively clear water as the temperature drops below the warmth required for algae to grow. With the water temperature continuing to drop, it is time to bring out the 3mm wetsuits, especially as we approach New Years. The cooler water brings various species of grouper like black, gag, Nassau, tiger and goliath, up over the wall seeking warmer water. Since they are not subject to spearfishing, they are quite curious and will allow you to get very close and do some great photography. The marlin has arrived along with the sailfish and they tend to cruise the wall. With any luck, you might just get to see a few along with the spotted eagle rays. Of course the sharks are always around to make sure “you take only pictures and leave only bubbles.”
Safety tip for December: There is no hospital or emergency (after hours) medical facility or hyperbaric chamber on Eleuthera, so get trip insurance with medical evacuation just in case you have a problem in the water or on land. Divers Alert Network (DAN) is an excellent choice, very affordable and can be accessed through our website.
Fun tip for December: Don’t forget your underwater camera, the photography opportunities are limitless.
Diver tip for December: Too long a surface interval is not good for your health, dive early and dive often. Endless visibility awaits the adventuresome divers, who treasure un-crowed diving, un-crowed beaches and endless dive sites on South Eleuthera.
From all the friendly folks on Eleuthera we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.