sk290 - 7/18/2008 11:39 AM
I’ve done both the Nekton and Blackbeard’s in the Bahamas. Liveaboards are awesome. You do nothing but dive, eat and sleep. The captain will ask the guests which type of diving they would like to do (deep vs. shallow) and take the boat to different dive spots according to weather conditions.
The difference between the boats are the size and type of accomodation such as deck space, bathrooms, eating and sleeping quarters. The Nekton had cabins with showers, a sun deck with a hot tub and a nice "cafeteria" area with a large tv where we could watch some of the videos shot by the divers. Weekly trips are priced at right below 2k.
The Blackbeard’s was also nice but not as spacious or luxurious. No sun deck, berth style accomodation (4 people per sleeping area) sharing one bathroom, small eating area so we mostly eat at the deck. This is more like "camping" and so was the price ($929).
The dive sites for both were pretty much the same, food was okay and plentiful, the crew always helpful and friendly. Shark dives are also included in the schedule which is way cool.
Another thing I also consider on my dive trips is the cost of getting there. The Nekton took off from Ft. Lauderdale and sailed all night. For the Blackbeard’s I had to fly to Freeport, Bahamas and is sailed all night to get to it’s destination.
So, total cost to consider is the cruise, flight, tips (10 - 15% of cruise cost), fuel upcharge and incidentals for a night in the island off the ship.
I know of other liveaboards that can get up to 5 or 6k which goes to more exotic places, bigger ships, more service, etc... Either way you choose, this is a must do experience.
Happy diving!