December diving is outstanding as the visibility continues to improve with the cooler water temperatures, typically in the mid-70’s with visibility better than the water in your backyard pool. Hurricane Sandy that passed by Eleuthera at the end of October knocked the water temperature down to 76 to77 degrees by early November. That is typically the December temperature range. The reefs survived Hurricane Sandy’s turbulence with no visible damage and it appears to have stimulated coral growth and increased the fish population. With the cooler water, the various species of grouper like black, gag, Nassau, tiger and goliath are coming up over the wall seeking warmer water. Since they are not subject to spear fishing, they are quite curious and will allow you to get very close, allowing for some great photography.
Marlin have 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. If you are headed to the Islands of the Bahamas for a December dive trip and bringing your own gear, especially regulators, remember to have the annual service done prior to your trip as most of the Out Island dive shops do not have traditional repair shops. We typically stock only repair kits for the regulators used at our shops. Be sure to bring your underwater camera as the opportunity for outstanding photographs is excellent in December.
From all the friendly folks on Eleuthera we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
FORECAST BY: Al J Curry
Ocean Fox Cotton Bay Scuba Diving and Deep Sea Fishing
Davis Harbour Marina
PADI Instructor # 287249
Email: al@oceanfoxcottonbay.com
www.oceanfoxcottonbay.com
Shop Phone: 242-334-6300