I'm planning on an eastern caribbean cruise for January. Since it is during winter months am I going to have to worry about cold waters? I'm debating if I should move it to a warmer month before hurricane season. Any input is gteatly appreciated

I am a total whimp, so if the water is below 90F, I'm cold. The water temperatures in January usually range between 80-86F. I wear a short wet suit when snorkeling and am usually fine. We went to Stingray city this past January and even with my wet suit, I was cold. For most normal people, the water is fine.

The water is a little cooler in Jan but still acceptable for me & we're used to the water here in Florida where the temp in the summer in our pool is over 90. There hasn't been a time when we didn't go in the water - except for the pool on board the ship since they usually change it in Florida & it doesn't heat up for a few days.

RichC, I was born and raised in Ft. Lauderdale. I used to laugh at the snow birds in the ocean during the winter. I'd be on shore with my sweater or coat on. I told you, I'm a whimp!

Growing up in Hudson, NY, I used to question the sanity of local Polar Bear members who'd jump into the Hudson River in the winter. Not me!

Of course, I wouldn't go in that river in the summer because of the pollution.

My wife is sitting in our unheated hot tub as I type & it's around 80 degrees & she's usually the one to complain about how cool the water is. I've got to invest in a solar heater or take more cruises to the Caribbean this time of year until our water heats up a bit more.

quote:

Originally posted by Dave Beers:
Growing up in Hudson, NY, I used to question the sanity of local Polar Bear members who'd jump into the Hudson River in the winter. Not me!

Of course, I wouldn't go in that river in the summer because of the pollution.

When I was a kid they were still fishing in the Hudson for shad - Jersey side (where the Yonkers ferry used to dock) & we used to get fish from the guys to use for crab bate. They say the fish are coming back but I wouldn't want to eat any.

Don't worry--The good folks in Jamaica will tell you the water isn't cold, it's "refreshing"

Been in Carrib in May, Feb, June. I always use a 1mm/2mm spring suit (That's 1 and 2 millimeter neoprene with short sleeves and short legs). Even in May and June I use it. I spend a lot of time in the water. Our May trip (not a cruise) I was in the water for around 4 hours at a time every day and would not have been able without the suit. It cuts way down on my suntan lotion use as well. In Feb. the suit was welcomed but not at all neccesary if you are only going to jump in for a short dip. If you are going to be in for more than an hour it is good to have. I love the water and want to be comfortable. So why not wear the suit? You can pick these kinds of suits up for about $50.00. Just make sure you get a good fit. It should be tight when dry. It will loosen some when you get in the water. Once you have one it opens up other activities that you might not have done because of "bad weather". (When the temp is low and the water park is open, you will have the place to yourself).

Interesting. Where can you buy one such suit? A sports supply store?

MamaofEnS

Around here (New Jersey) all surf shops have them. Some sporting goods stores (Dicks and Sports Authority), most boating stores (Boat US, West Marine and Boaters World). The in -person stores are the best because you can try them on. If all else fails there is always the net. Make sure there is plenty of time for mailing, fitting and re-fitting if you go that way. My Wife just got a 1MM top from LL Bean. First try was way to tight. Next size was much better. Oneil and Body Glove are good suits. There are many more out there. The suit type is called a spring suit.

If you have dive shops in your area, they should carry them as well.