[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he busy Christmas season for boaters and divers on North Eleuthera is almost upon us! It would be wise to book ahead for any watersports activities to avoid disappointment. The weather will provide air temperatures around 72-85 degrees and ocean temperatures should average 75-78 degrees. It’s time to think of wearing wetsuits (3mm) for warmth and protection from stingy creatures. Boaters and divers/snorkelers will be rewarded with close encounters with larger gamefish and beautiful aquatic life such as turtles, eels, lobster, and angelfish as well as large animals like bottlenose dolphin, eagle rays, tarpon and sharks. Shipwrecks and coral reefs are also waiting to be explored by the inquisitive divers who will have an opportunity to see smaller creatures such as flamingo tongue, nudibranchs, squid, and more. The dock at Valentines Resort by the dive center boats is again hosting two manatees and we are providing fresh water to them as advised by the biologists in the area. For divers, keep in mind the great diving around North Eleuthera including the famous ‘Current Cut’ high speed drift dive that provides ample opportunity for larger animal sighting like eagle rays, jacks, sharks and turtles. Nearby there are shipwrecks, plane wrecks, pristine coral reefs for both divers and snorkelers. Many of you may simply want to enjoy a cruise to see the beautiful islands, perhaps visit a historic cave, enjoy a beach lunch and learn about the history of the area. The pink sand beaches on Harbour Island are a great idea for a walk after a tasty meal and beverage at many of the great hotels/restaurants, including some Bahamian music.