[dropcap]T[/dropcap]his month begins a trend of mild cooling in our weather patterns. October’s average water temperature is 82°F, and most days the air temperature is near the same. Traditionally October is not that rainy, however, this year it seems like all of our afternoon showers started a little late in the summer, and we believe that trend will continue. Mild east winds are still the norm in October, with the exception of gusts in passing squalls. These conditions, coupled with a very low number of guests, can make October a stellar month to dive, snorkel, and spearfish around Bimini.
By October, even the “regulars” who bring their boats over almost every weekend, begin to visit much more sporadically. Places near Cat Cay and Ocean Cay are almost private diving paradises. The most beautiful reefs in all of Bimini will have virtually no one diving them. The crystal clear water is swarming with life this month. Groupers and snappers, as well as monster lobsters, begin moving into shallower depths. Big sharks start showing up again near the drop offs and walls. Pelagic fish, like wahoo, are even already showing up, and not uncommon to see during your safety stops while anchored or drifting some of the deep reefs.
Many of the commercially operated wild dolphin tour boats wind down or end their dolphin tours this month. The Atlantic spotted dolphins, however, are here all year round. October is also one of the greatest months to encounter these playful mammals in relative privacy. The water is still warm, and as far as big animals go, by far the most exciting and reliable encounter to have in Bimini all month.
If you have the time for last minute trips, October is your month! Virtually a private island awaits, with tons of uncrowded tours and activities to keep you engaged for the whole month!