Aqua Cat: Cruising In Style

Image by Bill Harrigan

''Walls dropping into the Exuma Sound, drifting on the tidal flood, and a weekly shark feed await adventurers'' This Web Exclusive article is a supplement to the March 2002 Sport Diver Travel News brief on page 99 GREETINGS FROM THE BRIDGE: by Captain Ron McCaslinAfter 8 months of operation in the Northern Exumas, I'm pleased to report that the AQUA CAT has developed a warm personality inspired by her guests, crew and beautiful surroundings.Walls dropping into the Exuma Sound, drifting on the tidal flood, and a weekly shark feed await the AQUA CAT adventurers below the surface. Recent highlights include hammerhead and manta ray sightings. Most diver log notes include reef sharks, hawksbill turtles and eagle rays. Divers on the lookout will spot such tropical delights as nudibranch, jawfish blennies, black coral, and neck crabs. I have witnessed the glee that our passengers experience when we come upon whales, the fun they experience when they hand feed the iguanas, the awe they feel when they kayak into stunning sunsets, the adventure they feel when they hike the hidden trails on uninhabited islands.Fortunately, our diving photographers, both guests and crew, catch these sightings and experiences on film. These digital and E-6 photos, as well as video clips become part of the Thursday evening entertainment when they are entered into our fun photo contest. The week is also captured on a commemorative video that is enjoyable to share.The week goes quickly as passengers spend their surface intervals in various states of rest! Decisions are to be made- should one sun on the top deck, lounge in a swinging hammock on the alfresco deck with a good book, catch up on the latest movies in the main salon, or opt for a cozy nap in their cabin? The more energetic snorkel, kayak or fish when the birds signal a nearby school of fish by hovering above the surface hitting on the baitfish that surely mean mahi mahi are near. The catch of the day is offered at the next meal. Fish not edible by humans are saved for the shark-kebob.At the end of the week, divers are gearing up for the Blue Hole. This will be an exhilarating spiral dive that nicely caps off the trip. Upon our return to Nassau, passengers excitedly plan their evening ashore. The crew offers advise on local hotspots, eateries and such at the Captain's Farewell Cocktail Party. Many times, we join the passengers out on the town to enjoy the nightlife in Paradise Island and Nassau.Saturday mornings are busy on the Aqua Cat. As Captain, I bid farewell to the departing passengers and prepare for the next week's adventure.Call now to reserve passage aboard the April 13-20 Bill Harrigan U/W Photo Week. This is a $150 added value including a free photo instruction book. Space is limited !!!! toll free: 1.888.327.9600local: 305.888.3002fax: 305.885.3323email: sp@aquacatcruises.comwebsite: www.aquacatcruises.com

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