I don't want to tie up the board with issues not related to Bonaire, but I do have a question. Hubby and I are thinking about a short jaunt to the Bahamas this June to celebrate a significant birthday of his. My sister will also becoming. Any advice on the diving in Nassau vs., say, Eleuthera, or another out island? We're also looking for things for my sister, a non diver, to do. I looked at other newsgroups, but have been unable to find one as fine as this! So I don't tie this up, if you can help, please e-mail me at mkp2@earthlink.net
Thanks!

I've only done Freeport, Grand Bahamas, via UNEXSO (dive operator). Reef's not as lively and colorful as Bonaire's, but the shark dives and dolphin dives are pretty cool. Water's cold in December (70 degrees), not sure about June. I also got to do a very neat cavern dive - 300 foot visibility.

Jake

I have only dove Grand Bahama Island(Freeport)myself. There are several dive ops on the island. I agree with Jake the diving is not as good as Bonaire but it's not bad. It is all boat diving. There is quite a bit to do on the island so your non-diving companions should be able to find a lit to do. Water temp should be mid-hi 80's. I know of a good condo on GBI for a fairly reasonable price and it has a good location as well. Drop me an email if you want the details.

I wouldn't go back. Diving is better in the outer islands, but there is very little else to do. You have to rent a car or take taxi's (expensive)everywhere (hotels are not allowed to shuttle guests, however private tours can). Nassau is more of a "spring break" kind of a place with more shopping and the like and more buses. If you go, get an all inclusive. Even with a condo and doing a lot of our own cooking it got very expensive fast. Example $45-50 US for a case of beer, $4-5 for a box of cereal, $2 for a can of frozen juice, $4 for a gallon of milk. I like Puerto Vallarta or Puerto Rico lot's better.

I'm sure your sister is ALREADY becoming, as well the chance she may be coming on your trip.

May I recommend Stuart Cove's on New Providence Island at http://www.stuartcove.com? They also have out-island trips.

Grand Bahama Island has a shipwreck at about 100 ft. There was a moray eel you could touch. The vis was practically unlimited.