mike_s:
We just booked a cruise that will go there in June... so instead of starting a new thread asking the same question, I'd like to ask the same here also...
(yeah, I know it's bumping it, but better than a new thread).
Will most likely take my and the wifes snorkle gear but since I think it's a shore dive, will pay the extra $10 bucks and just use their dive equipment if I dive. I just don't figure it's worth hauling it to/from the cruiseboat, etc.
Any information would be appreciated.
-mike
Well, I wish that I could help you with answers here, Mike. We got home from our cruise last week, but we didn't get to go to CocoCay. We ended up just spending a rather windy and cool day at sea, as the waves were just too much to be able to tender safely to the island. The captain determined that it wasn't worth the risk. We had a nice day, though. Hung out by the pool as long as we could, until we got too close to that Florida norther. Played bingo, didn't win the $3160 championship pot. We consoled ourselves by consuming many CocoLoco's in memory of what might have been...
Be sure and dive at every port that you can- you may not make it to the next due to unforeseen circumstances (has happened to us twice this year.) You should have much better weather in June, however. We did have some great dives in Nassau. Which ports will you be going to?
Also, regarding the gear- if you are only diving at Cococay, you might consider just taking your reg and mask. I'm kinda particular about using my own gear, so for me, it would be worth carrying it. If you're diving at more than one port, it would definately be worth it. But, I'm a creature of habit, and I really like knowing how my BC, reg, etc., works, and that it DOES work.
One thing about a cruiseship stateroom- they have lots of hooks, rods, etc. for hanging your gear. They're built for efficiency, so that's helpful to a diver when it comes to rinsing and stashing gear between dives. We've never had a problem with our room steward, we try to be considerate about where we hang things when we know they will be in our room, cleaning, etc. We have never spent the extra $$ for a balcony room, but hear that it's the way to go. I guess we're too cheap.
Or too poor!
Foo