Cayman Brac or Little Cayman?

[chibracdiver]

Yes, the Brac has recovered. Just got Brac last week from diving four days and we are headed Brac late March and early July. The snorkeling on the northside took a bit of a hit, but the diving is very good. Greenhouse Reef was in great shape and Double Wall was fine. End of Island has never been better. That was one of the best shallow dives I have ever been on. Schooling fish everywhere, rays, turtles, tons and tons of reef fish, saw a few lobsters, etc. Vis was about 80' and temp. at surface was 80ish.

Dove the 356 and Capt. Javan had to coax a rather large grouper out of the way as we went into the mid section of her. Still a great dive, the 356. A fair amount of large angels on this dive along with nice sized groupers make it a "must" dive.

The Brac Reef is open, but the Grand Re-Opening is not until mid Feb. Plenty of homes, condos and the Alexander are ready to serve the dive crowd. The Brac could really use the dive community's help right now. Paloma has cost the island plenty of $$$ and the small guys on the island are really feeling it. We will be forgoing our yearly visit to GC to spread a little more green around the Brac. Besides, we think Brac is better anyway.

If anyone is considering a dive trip in the near future, please consider the Brac as the great people of this isle would greatly appreciate it and you will not be disappointed.

 

[Rocketmahn]

I'm looking to stay within about 500nm South Florida (Bahamas, Turks, Caymans etc..) the 1st week in April.
Small and out of the way is ideal, if it has a cruise ship port it's likely too big.
All I need is a runway!

So I'm considering the Brac for a 4 person family trip as we've never been.

If we go should we stay on the north side or south side?
Should we rent a car?
3 of us are certified OW or AOW, and 1 wants to get OW and 1 wants to get AOW, - any dive shop recommendations?

This is NOT really a "dive" trip - but a trip with a lot of diving (a couple of dives on most days) and just hanging out!

We may want to rent a house for the week too.
Being able to snorkel or shore dive in the shallows near the house would provide hours of entertainment.

However, I'm concerned that the prices might be a more than normal if they are trying to recoup lost revenue (on top of the the 120% exchange rate #$%^&).

I haven't started look at prices yet but do you find that they are offering incentive deals to lure ppl back?

Any thought or recommendations would be appreciated.

Also - ChiBracDiver - I've heard the Mid Feb. "ourworldunderwater" in Chitown is suppose to be a good show.
Is it worth the effort/hotel etc. to drive over from Ohio to attend?

 

[chibracdiver]

Rocketmahn,

The Brac would be a great place for you and your party. I cannot recommend a dive shop as I have good friends at both, Indepth and Reef. That would have to be your call. Let me try to answer your questions from here:

I have stayed on both sides of the island and have enjoyed both sides. The south side is a little closer to the dive shops, but the north side has more easy access snorkel sites. If you like sunrises go south, for sunsets, go north. Or just drive to the other side for both. Either way it might add another 5 minutes to your trip. No cruise ships here, so no problem. And yes, you will have to rent a car. Dwayne over at B and S will meet you at the airport and you will be on your way 5 minutes later.

I was just there two weeks ago and the prices have not increased noticeably. The dive prices are still the same. Regarding staying on island, check out on line rental sites for condos or homes. If the date is open the owner might be in a "dealing mood", just ask. We did, and saved a fair amount. If anyone in your party can prep fresh fish, head out to one of the boat docks, Cemetery Dock, between 4-5 in the afternoon. When the fishermen come in, ask what they have and how much. We had a dinner of fresh trigger and snapper for well under $10.00 a man. The fishermen will fillet everything right there as you wait. You can watch the rays come in for the scraps and sometimes, fairly big sharks make their way into the area. Always have your mask ready.

I haven't been to that show, but might be attending this year. Several other boat and rv shows along with the recent fishing show in Chicago have been way down in attendance and vendors. The economy is most likely the culprit.

You will love the Brac. Great, friendly locals, laid back vibe, and some pristine diving. You will not be rushed anywhere at anytime. The pool is open. I will be returning two more times in the next 5 months.

PM if you need any housing picks.