The month of February on Alphonse Island has been nothing short of extraordinary, offering guests a combination of picture-perfect weather, exciting wildlife sightings, and the perfect conditions for water-based activities. The island’s diverse natural beauty, combined with its favourable weather patterns, created a truly magical environment for those who visited. Guests were treated to mild winds, calm seas, and clear skies, providing an ideal setting for diving, snorkelling, and other outdoor adventures. The temperature remained comfortable throughout the month, and the shifting tides ensured optimal conditions for activities.

MARINE LIFE ENCOUNTERS

February saw a fantastic array of marine life, with manta rays continuing to be a highlight of the month. One of the most remarkable sightings occurred on Thursday, February 19th, when a group of six manta rays was spotted at Trigger Hill during a dive. The majestic creatures glided effortlessly through the water, offering guests a rare and unforgettable sight. Additionally, mantas were seen regularly throughout the month during dives at locations such as the Theatre and Western St. Francois, where guests were able to observe these magnificent animals in their natural environment. These manta ray encounters were an exciting feature of the month, showcasing the rich biodiversity around Alphonse Island.

The waters also offered plenty of shark activity throughout February. Nurse Sharks and Grey Reef Sharks were frequently observed during dives, providing guests with thrilling underwater encounters. One particularly memorable moment occurred on Thursday, February 12th, when three large Bull Sharks were sighted during a dive at the Samora dive site, a rare and exhilarating experience for all who were present. Adding to the excitement, a rare sighting of a Tiger Shark was reported during a dive at Back Row later in the month. Dolphin sightings were also abundant, with a large pod of Spinner Dolphins spotted almost daily, including a rare sighting of Bottlenose dolphins on February 14th. These incredible marine creatures provided guests with memorable experiences and brought the island’s waters to life.

OCEAN WONDERS

The calm seas and favourable conditions allowed guests to enjoy a wide range of activities, including snorkelling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Many guests took the opportunity to explore the island by kayak, completing full laps of the island with the help of the optimal tidal conditions. SUPing was particularly popular, with guests venturing out on calm waters, enjoying the scenic beauty and wildlife of Alphonse Island from a new perspective. Surfing also made a strong return, with several guests, including Norina, Aaron, and Pascale, participating in their first surf lessons and catching their first waves. The calm conditions and small swells made it an ideal time for beginner surfers to get on the water, with some even venturing out to Channel Lefts to catch long, beautiful waves.

WILDLIFE MAGIC 

February brought a magical turtle moment, as turtle hatchlings emerged on the evening of February 19th. Unfortunately, the event occurred late at night, and no guests were present to witness the hatching. Despite this, the event was captured by the security team, adding to the rich tapestry of wildlife experiences that Alphonse Island offers. Birdwatching on Alphonse Island also provided some exciting moments. Red-footed Boobies were spotted roosting on St. Francois, providing an excellent opportunity for guests to observe these beautiful birds up close. Birdwatching enthusiasts were also able to spot several species of eagle rays. The island’s commitment to wildlife conservation remains a central part of its appeal, and the various bird and marine life sightings only add to the island’s allure.

EXPLORE ANOTHER WORLD

Diving continued to be a major attraction this February, with numerous guests participating in courses and enjoying the clear waters. Several guests completed their Discover Scuba Diving programs, including Joanne Prest, Matthew, and Byron Fox. The diving conditions were particularly excellent during the last week of February, when the neap tides provided some of the best visibility of the season—up to 40 meters in some areas. The Lawson family also earned their Nitrox certifications during the month, adding to their underwater adventures. This was a month filled with diving milestones, with both beginners and seasoned divers enjoying the waters around Alphonse Island.

February  on Alphonse Island was a month to remember, marked by perfect weather, incredible marine life encounters, and exciting water-based activities. From the majestic manta rays to the thrilling shark sightings and turtle hatchlings, the island’s diverse wildlife provided guests with unforgettable experiences. The combination of calm seas, clear skies, and favourable tides made it the perfect setting for diving, surfing, kayaking, and other outdoor adventures. February proved to be another remarkable chapter in Alphonse Island’s ongoing story as a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.