Is wetsuit needed?

[lizajune]

My husband is planning on scuba diving on our cruise in 2 weeks and was wondering if anyone felt the need for a wetsuit this time of year or was just diving in a swimsuit okay. Thanks in advance for your input...

 

[DepCor0311]

I have dove in the western carribean in late September and did not wear a suit (went in shorts and BC only, water temp was in the high 70s/low 80s, and even that can get a little chilly after a prolonged time). I was off of Cozumel...I don't know about anything further north or east...Hope this helps, and have a great time.

 

[CM_Mom]

If you have one, especially if it's one of the short sleeved short legged ones, bring it. DD has starting taking scuba lessons when she can get time off in port and she asked us to send hers.

Possibly she wanted the suit because the tanks are more comfortable with the wetsuit on? BTW, not having a wetsuit didn't stop her from starting her dive lessons but she will be on the ship through the end of January so she might have been planning for cooler water later.

Have fun.

 

[zacsmom]

I brought mine for the western in February. Didn't need it anywhere except Castaway Cay which was chilly.

 

[Grumbo]

I think it depends if this is formal night.
Some folks wear wettuxedos but definitely not swim suits and t-shirts.
A wetsuit is perfectly acceptable for both casual and semiformal nights too.

Cheers,
Grumbo

 

[needAcruise]

Originally posted by Grumbo
I think it depends if this is formal night.
Some folks wear wettuxedos but definitely not swim suits and t-shirts.
A wetsuit is perfectly acceptable for both casual and semiformal nights too.

What about the ladies? If we go for wetdresses, this thread will start taking on a whole other meaning.

 

[CGC33A]

I was making arrangements to rent one for snorkeling in Grand Cayman, but now that we aren't going there, I don't have to worry about being cold. I hate cold water & would say get/bring the wetsuit for scuba b/c you are deeper & the water colder. You don't have to wear it if it is too warm. Are they available to rent with the scuba equipment (assuming you are renting equipment and not bringing your own)?

 

[1stNoel]

The temps should be ok to go without a suit, but I would recommend wearing a skin. Staying warm isn't the only reason to wear a suit. Surge happens, especially this time of year, and even those with excellent buoyancy control can end up on the rocks or coral. Chances of being cut and/or stung are significantly decreased if you are wearing a skin.

 

[hAm53]

what bout fins when snorkeling? we got a great deal ob the tube and mask, but couldn't find the fins. do we even need fins for snorkeling?

 

[MCazer]

We always bring our lycra suits, they are thin, but comfortable. 80 feet down gets cold after awhile. And when we use it for snorkeling, I don't get sunburned, and you are less likely to get any jellyfish stings.

On the fins question, YES I think you really need to have fins, you're legs will get mightly tired if you snorkel all the way out at Castaway and anywhere else. There is always the chance of waves and currrents and you will need the extra help that fins supply. Remember not to walk on the beach with them!