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Diving on Blackbeard’s Morning Star liveaboard
Diving in the Bahamas is pleasant year-round, with water temperatures ranging from 73 to 87 F (23 to 30 C) depending on the time of year. Note that June through November is the wet season, which coincides with the hurricane season. August and September are the most storm-prone months, although dive sites tend to be the least crowded between June and October.
The Exuma Cays have gained internet popularity due to swimming pigs. This may be the only place you can log hogs in your divebook. Shore excursions during the trip are at the discretion of the captain.
Established in 1958, the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park promises clean, clear water and healthy marine life. In addition to splashing swine, five out of the seven species of sea turtles in the world live here. Stay alert for rays and goliath grouper as you explore this underwater playground.
Eleuthera is known for its pink sand beaches, but the underwater geology is equally dramatic. Caves and swim-throughs make up most of the dive sites here, with wrecks dotting the Devil’s Backbone, the reef with the most wrecks in the Bahamas.
Although Caribbean reef sharks and nurse sharks appear on most dives, Cave Rock is one of the best locations to see hammerheads. Other shark species include bull, lemon, and tiger sharks. Divers can observe sharks feeding during a planned “passive feed.” This shark feeding technique suspends food in the water while divers observe.
Onboard, you’ll find individual dive lockers and a separate camera rinse. Depending on the dive site, prepare for giant strides off the deck or delivery to sites via tenders. A dive guide will be in the water every dive. Rental equipment is available onboard, though it should be requested in advance. Multiple PADI courses are offered as well.
Non-divers are welcome on Blackbeard’s Morning Star as most sites are suited for snorkeling. The last night is spent in port, and guests are welcome to explore Nassau. If you crave luxury after this salty journey, this resort is a treat.
Highlights:
- Sharks and goliath grouper
- Dive site variety and quantity
- Stellar visibility
Onboard Blackbeard’s Morning Star
Clocking in at 65 feet (20 m), Blackbeard’s Morning Star holds up to 22 divers if couples are willing to share a double bed. Otherwise, 18 guests are standard. Life aboard this vessel, renovated in 2016, can be compared to camping at sea or a hostel with a sail and motor.
Although guests do sleep in bunk beds, the lower deck is air-conditioned. Privacy curtains for each bunk add to the group sleepover feel. Each bunk has a shelf for storing personal items, and beds are either a double mattress or single mattress. Guests are encouraged to pack light to ensure maximum space and comfort in the berths.
All three bathrooms are shared, and the one shower has limited freshwater capabilities. This requires that most showering take place with salt water, with a brief freshwater rinse.
The communal kitchen table also serves as a lounge area, but the camaraderie will make you want to raise a glass of grog with your comrades as you discuss your underwater adventures.
True to the back-to-basics style of this trip, there is no internet—but it’s also a great opportunity to unplug, disconnect, and soak in the views and company.
Highlights:
- Camaraderie with fellow passengers
- Break from screen time and tech
- Feeling like an old-timey sailor
Dining Onboard Blackbeard’s Morning Star
Meals are served at the communal table below deck, and special diets can be accommodated with advanced notice. If you ever feel peckish, a hammock of fresh fruit always hangs within reach.
Expect three daily meals, snacks, and unlimited beverages including tea, coffee, water, soda, and rum punch. Crew will sometimes catch lobsters and fish for meals and guests can assist with fishing if desired. And don’t skip dessert—the key lime pie is almost as famous as the ship’s namesake.
Highlights:
- Family meal feeling
- Round-the-clock fruit availability
- Complimentary beer, wine, and rum punch
- Freshly caught seafood and famous key lime pie
Things we like:
- Very affordable price tag
- Dive variety and quantity
- Camaraderie with fellow divers
- Complimentary alcohol (beer, wine, and rum punch)
Things we don't like:
- Close quarters with traveling sound
- Mostly saltwater showers
- Clothespins not provided for drying line
- No nitrox
Key Facts
| Year Built | 1984 |
| Max Divers | 22 |
| Price Range | Budget |
| Trip Length | 5-7 Nights |
| Internet | No |
| Nitrox | No |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | No |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | No minimum |
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