Abaco SCUBA Diving Conditions and Forecast: March 2014

Flamingo tongues---they seem to be everywhere! PHOTO CREDIT: Keith Rogers, DIVE ABACO!
Flamingo tongues—they seem to be everywhere! PHOTO CREDIT: Keith Rogers, DIVE ABACO!

March – and the beginning of Abaco’s tourism season. Spring breakers will visit yet again and many of them will enjoy diving and snorkeling in our beautiful turquoise waters. The snowbirds, desperate for an early start to their own summer, will continue to escape the snowbound north for a week, maybe two.

Warmer, longer days are on the way! The last full moon of winter will occur at 1:10 p.m. on Sunday, March 16. It is known as the Full ‘Worm’ Moon due to the sightings of earthworms in the thawing ground in colder climates. For us, that means air temperature varies from 67°F during the night to 78°F during the day. Water temperature is warmer this year than last and is currently at 76°F.

We continue to recommend wearing a shorty wet suit, thereby adding a layer of thermal protection and avoiding the possibility of getting chilled. However, we have true northerners who choose to go without. With the moderate water temperature, the absence of algae results in super visibility – usually exceeding 100 feet. If you’ve been thinking about taking up underwater photography, this is a great time to start.

There has been an increase in eagle ray sightings lately, which will undoubtedly continue through March. Our amazing grouper friends have been performing admirably, leading our tour around the mountainous coral columns. They swim right up, look into your face mask and you can almost hear them say, “Is anybody in there?”  Beautiful, live flamingo tongue (shells) seem to be everywhere, perfect for macro!

Whether you want to relax on an unpopulated, white sand beach or dive in to our clear, blue water, come on, beat the crowd, pack your bag and jump on a plane.  Set your course for 26°32’48″N and 77°03’06″W.  Come enjoy the warmth of Bahamian hospitality and bask in the sunshine of Abaco!