Water temp in Abaco in April

[Bardstownsail]

Hey all,

My fam has been chartering in the BVI for several years. We wanted to try something a little different this year. Strongly considering Abaco in the Bahamas. We have 4 kids with us (ages 4-11). With the kids, swimming/snorkeling is a big deal. Some have warned me about water temps. My thought is that water temps along beaches in shallow areas should be acceptable (76-80)? We are likely going the second week of April. Can someone give me good info?

Other suggestions for a good family alternative to BVI. Many thanks.

[Vasco]

The shallow water should be fine on a sunny day. I seldom go in the water in the Bahamas without a wet suit.

[Bardstownsail]

What can we expect weather wise? One of the beauties of the BVI is steady weather and warm water - more important with kiddies. Any info on this subject is much appreciated.

[Vasco]

Originally Posted by Bardstownsail

What can we expect weather wise? One of the beauties of the BVI is steady weather and warm water - more important with kiddies. Any info on this subject is much appreciated.

Abaco even in April can be cloudy and cool. You have to remember it's further north than Ft. Lauderdale. The weather is iffy if you only have a week. A front might come through and bring cool windy weather. It's not like BVI where you're guaranteed 84 degrees and mostly sunny. The last two years in the Bahamas have been exceptional but this season it seems to be back to "normal" which means more fronts.

Here's a site to keep abreast of Abaco weather. Go to the site and check out "Barometer Bob". This week it's in the mid seventies. The winds are in the Northerly quadrant. For it to get real nice you need the wind in the SE.

[nautical62]

About 75 degrees according to these sites:

The Abacos

Elbow Cay and Abaco Island Bahamas Monthly Average Air Temperature, Water Temparature, and Rainfall

http://www.abacos.net/weather.html

I'm often there in the winter and find it can vary from year to year. Last winter, (January) I'd often snorkel with no wetsuit for a couple hours. The winter prior, I couldn't get out fast enough.

As mentioned,the bays can heat up in the sun, but I second what Vasco said about not counting on the Abacos for nice weather they way you an the BVIs

I sail in both the BVIs and Abacos. While I personally prefer the Abacos, for a fun family vacation in the Sun, I'd recommend the BVIs, at least that time of the year.

[Vasco]

Here's the site I omitted.
Abaco Message Board

[clifford sloan]

Vasco gave the best advice. I've lived in both places and found it to be true when it comes to early spring in the Abacos. Ever thought of Punta Cana (all inclusive pkgs)?