Abacos and Wetsuits?

[danielgoldberg]

We're chartering in the Abacos this coming February. Does it make sense to bring wetsuits for snorkeling, etc.? Me, the admiral and our two tadpoles, 7 and 5. That's my instinct, but just checking with others who may know better. Thx.

[Hud3]

I've only been there once, and it was in May. I found the water a tad chilly compared to the Caribbean, and wore my 2 mm shortie while snorkeling.

[Abaco]

I would bring wet suits for the full crew, but I'm a wimp when it comes to cold water. Expect water temps in the low 70's.

[svHyLyte]

You can check the sea water temperatures on Passage Weather at PassageWeather - Sailing Weather - Marine Weather Forecasts for Sailors and Adventurers . With water temp's in the 70's you'll want at least shorties (per Hud). The children, with lower body mass, will chill more quickly.

[Intentional Drifter]

In Feb, you're probably going to want full suits. By March/April, I found a 2mm shortie was OK for me, up to about an hour. The admiral, though, was very happy to have her full suit. This was for snorkeling and shallow scuba. If you're thinking you'll be on the outer reefs and 30+ feet, then just go ahead and do full suits for everybody. You can always cool off, but you can't get warmer.

ID

[Ram]

yes Full suits water is colder than normal now with all that cold weather thay had in the area a few weeks ago/ A friend who lives in Marsh Harbor told me last week the water temp was 70* and he had a full suit on and still was chilled, if he stopped swiming

[Cheechako]

I used a thin skin all the time in the Bahamas, by the time the water warms up some in april, the jellyfish invade...

[Beach Cruiser]

We are in Man-O-War, Abaco right now and I would not swim without a wetsuit.

Barry
s/v Beach Cruiser