THE SCUBA SHOP |
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LOCAL WEATHER |
The area experiences pleasant warm temperatures year round, with sunny skies, minimal rainfall and steady easterly trade winds. 85% of the time the prevailing direction is between north-east in winter to south-east in summer. Wind velocity is stronger during the winter months and weakest during late summer. The average air temperature varies from a low of 28°C/82°F from December to February, to a high of 31°C/88°F from July to September. The average sea water temperature varies from a low of 25°C/77°F from January to April, to a high of 28°C/82°F in September. VISIBILITY - All this means is that you will experience very pleasant scuba diving conditions with excellent visibility. This will be as much as 120 feet or 36 meters in very calm conditions. NORTHERLY SWELLS - Northerly swells are generated mainly by north Atlantic storms, usually between December and March. These conditions do affect certain dive sites, as noted in the guides. WETSUITS - Although the water is relatively warm, it is advisable to wear at least, a 3mm "shorty" wetsuit. Ideal comfort would be provided by a 0.5mm Scubapro or 1mm Mares neoprene full suit which also give full body protection against stings. |
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| While you are scuba diving, let your
motto be take only photographs and leave only bubbles. Spear fishing and the removal of
any items from the sea while scuba diving is generally prohibited, and this is very
strictly enforced in Anguilla, St. Barths and Saba in particular. It is only with this
strict conservation that we can maintain healthy fish populations around our islands. St.
Martin, St. Maarten and St. Barths all have Marine Parks which protect the reef systems
with rules and regulations which specifically prohibit spear fishing and removal of any
items from the sea while scuba diving and in many cases while snorkeling. In addition, the
CITES International Treaty has severe penalties for the transportation of Turtle Shells,
Conch Shells and many other sea shells and corals. CIGUATERA WARNING - Unfortunately, ciguatera fish poisoning does exist in the areas described in this guide. If transmitted to humans by the consumption of affected fish, it can be very serious. This in itself is a very sound reason for shooting only photographs. DEEP SEA FISHING - Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Tuna and Marlin can be caught and are delicious to eat. If you are chartering a yacht you can rent a trolling rod or purchase a hand line and lures from our store in Oyster Pond. If you are staying in a hotel on St. Martin / St. Maarten you can join a half or full day deep sea fishing trip. |
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The alternatives of getting wet in St. Maarten/St. Martin and the surrounding islands. |
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The reefs and waters surrounding our islands are all protected by Marine Parks. While some Park's rules are stricter than others, the idea is to conserve our natural resources not to harass you the diver. We do ask that you comply with all Park rules so that you too can enjoy the beauty of our tropical waters for many years to come. |
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GENERAL MARINE PARK RULES
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