The OP wants “west” which CCV is not, and CCV doesn’t accept walk-ins. AKR is an AI and not in the West End sphere, It is sometimes known as West-North.
That said, to the OP:
> You were “
told the visibility was amazing”. That’s the first time I’ve
ever heard that phrase in conjunction with the Bay Islands. What we have, the best? It’s quite visible even suffering the worst viz. You gotta be pretty close to any given reef structure to even begin to see the macro critters exclusive to this locality.
> “
Drift diving” isn’t much done. Rarely utilized in the BI, certainly nowhere served by any West or West-North dive ops.
> IF one were seeking to use a dove-op’s tanks away from their direct supervision, never heard of it, not in the BI. Just thought I’d throw that in.
> The 100+HP thing. (I own two). They are a tool in my Chicago garage. They do not fit into the norm of BI diving.
-If you envision an extended range capability?
— Time? Do understand that you’re limited in time by the other divers along on your typical west end day-dive op boat. Most are
done in 45 minutes. A few want you back on board at 60 minutes. Very few allow “whenever”.
— Depth? The BI are known for giving you their best stuff
very shallow. Stay above 60fsw and you will see what’s unique in this environment, stuff you can’t easily find elsewhere. Why go deep to seek otherwise common critters?
— Air Consumption issues? That extra 20cf will certainly give you an equalizing advantage to those who are born with gills. So will a simple 1/2 day Peak Performance Buyancy type course. This can be helpful.
-If you are wanting non-ditchable weight, I understand that, but you’re just going to have to adjust.
There are bunches of day dive ops on West End. I wouldn’t worry too much about advance reservations. Have a look on the internet, when you get there...you’ll find someone who will take your money.