Cayman trip or Blackbeard's in Bahamas?

[khacken]

What would be a better trip? We want to do as many dives as we can fit in. I am intermediate, and my buddies are novice level. We really don't care about how nice things are topside. We want would like the best diving we can fit in for under 1500 from DFW.

 

[Willar]

I had a blast on Blackbeard's. Plenty of diving and nice relaxing cruise time. You have to like boats because the accomodations are pretty basic. The crew works hard to make it fun and the cooking is very good. I definitely want to go again, especially since they are in The Bahamas and there is no rough crossing from Miami to worry about.

 

[Vtdiver2]

What would be a better trip? We want to do as many dives as we can fit in. I am intermediate, and my buddies are novice level. We really don't care about how nice things are topside. We want would like the best diving we can fit in for under 1500 from DFW.

Go with Blackbeard's. We did 20 dives in a week in Feb '05, diving off their Cat Ppalu. The diving was amazing, the crew took good care of us, and I'm looking forward to putting together another trip with them as we all enjoy it so much.
C-Dawg

 

[Damselfish]

You're talking about 2 really different trips so it's kinda hard to say which is "better." I can't really compare Bahamas and Cayman diving since I have only done Cayman (though I'm under the impression Cayman is much better diving.) Cayman is not known as a cheap place though so you'd have to work at doing it on a budget, and do alot of shore diving to stay in your budget. Not that that is a bad thing, but alot of the dive sites Cayman is really know for are boat access. Sounds like for you Blackbeards is probably a good option.

 

[Scubasw]

Just got back from my second trip on Blackbeard's this year. Search this forum for my earlier trip report from January. The May trip was also a blast and I'm looking forward to going back next spring. Both trips the boat did 19 dives and 3 snorkels. Every dive was different and varied. They let you dive your own profile, which I love. My buddies and I are already planning on next spring's trip. I'm going to Caymen Brac with a large group in August, and we're only doing 17 dives for twice the price. If you want to go cheap then Blackbeard's is the way.

 

[rdmelton]

I've done both Blackbeards (Pirate's Lady) and their larger boat the Cat Ppalu. I can't say enough great things about both boats. The Blackbeards boats are basic accomodations but the diving is AMAZING. The crews are awesome and make the trip great. I am planning my second charter on Cat Ppalu in May '07 and everyone from last year's trip is going again. Cat Ppalu has nicer accomodations but you have to charter the whole boat, which is limited to 12 passengers. You can't beat the price and will definately enjoy some great diving. The food is great and there is always plenty of it. Our group plans on making it an annual event. Ron