Left home 7:30 am Turkey Day for the long road trip to Florida. Surprisingly there was little traffic and we arrived just under 11 hours later in WPB. Got settled in the rental and packed our gear in hopes that the boat would be able to make the planned 10 am dive.
This morning things were looking preffy iffy with winds at about 20 mph and seas expected in the 6 to 8 foot range with occassional 10. Thought about BHB instead but decided to stick with the dive boat plan. Arrived at the marina to find the Narcosis crew getting the boat ready and two other divers so the trip was a go.
Turns out the marine forecast got it right but it was a sunny day with great conditions under the waves. First dive was South Doubles and it was wonderful. Lots of fish, several turtles and 2 nurse sharks beside all the other usual suspects. Moderate north current with mild surge with viz estimated at 80 feet. Temp 81 top and 78 at depth.
Second dive was Hammerhead and more turtles and nurse sharks. Still a mild north current with surge. Temp 82 to 79. Total lobster catch for the day was 4 spiny and one slipper (with a little help from the guide - thanks Finch). First time eating a slipper lobster and it was very good.
Can't wait for tomorrow. Hoping for better seas.
This morning things were looking preffy iffy with winds at about 20 mph and seas expected in the 6 to 8 foot range with occassional 10. Thought about BHB instead but decided to stick with the dive boat plan. Arrived at the marina to find the Narcosis crew getting the boat ready and two other divers so the trip was a go.
Turns out the marine forecast got it right but it was a sunny day with great conditions under the waves. First dive was South Doubles and it was wonderful. Lots of fish, several turtles and 2 nurse sharks beside all the other usual suspects. Moderate north current with mild surge with viz estimated at 80 feet. Temp 81 top and 78 at depth.
Second dive was Hammerhead and more turtles and nurse sharks. Still a mild north current with surge. Temp 82 to 79. Total lobster catch for the day was 4 spiny and one slipper (with a little help from the guide - thanks Finch). First time eating a slipper lobster and it was very good.
Can't wait for tomorrow. Hoping for better seas.