Last minute Nekton Cay Sal Bank question

[divematt]

Anyone know what water temperatures to expect top to bottom down on the Cay Sal Bank area of the Bahamas this coming week? We're diving from Oct 20 thru 27.

Also, can anyone give me an idea of the difference of this area and usual Caribbean or West Palm Beach diving? Other than more sharks and Blue Holes are there any other notable differences?

Thanks

 

[robint]

water temps in the low 80s most likely, just guessing.

other than the Blue Holes and sharks??? No, nothing special other than the drift dives at Elbow (100' deep before you even reach the reef and the current is blowing you at Mach 3.) The reefs you will visit are very much like W. Palm Beach but not as lush as places like Bonaire. Fish life good but not as good as places like Bonaire. Vis average for Caribbean. But - Tons of fish from juvies to adults. Lots of rays and turtles, etc. Night dives are fantastic. If you are a photographer you will have plenty of willing subjects.

The diving at Cay Sal Bank is more "adrenaline junkie" diving - deep, lush blue holes, swim-throughs in pitch dark at 90' or deeper at times, very mysterious and unique sites, reef sharks following you around like puppy dogs, etc.

robint
if you haven't read my trip report, it is here: RnR Scuba
there are also videos for you to check out.

 

[Trwmodela]

I did the 10 day Cay Lobos trip a few weeks ago on the Rorqual. This trip included dives at the Big Hole in Cay Sal Banks. The water temps averaged 84 at depth and 86 near the surface during the trip. Some people dove in skins and some liked 3 mm wet suits. I wore a 3 mm shorty over a full length dive skin the entire trip. The visibility and current change in the Bahamas quickly.

I believe Captain Tucker is running the boat now. Also, Chef Kimberly, DM Christine, DM Brandt, DM Josh, Engineer Greg or Billy, DM Curtis and new DM Aaron. Most of the Dive Master's are also PADI instructors.

You will see sharks swimming around the Rorqual at the Big Hole once they connect to the mooring line!
SHARKS EVERYWHERE.....

Have Fun & Dive Safe!

 

[robint]

You will see sharks swimming around the Rorqual at the Big Hole once they connect to the mooring line!
SHARKS EVERYWHERE.....

yeah, its really funny how as soon as we got to the Big Hole, sharks started circling the boat. When I signed up for the trip, Pam told me that you practically have to kick them out of the way to jump in, and she wasn't kidding! LOL
I really loved that trip and may do it again soon.

robint