halocline
Contributor
I've done several trips with Roberta's Eco-dive cozumel, (AKA bluebubble divers) and I can attest that this would be a good dive op for a newbie; typically she has three or four small boats going out and makes a real effort to group people together on experience. Plus, the woman instructor that works for Roberta (can't remember her name) is fantastic. I did one dive with blue angel and was not as impressed with the dive master or "vibe" on the boat, although this is a really subjective thing and it was only one dive. So I would not be in a position to say 'don't dive with them" especially when so many others on this forum have had good experiences with them over the long run. Christi at blueXTsea has a stellar reputation on this forum which I'm sure is well deserved.
Regarding the sunblock, I believe it's prohibited or at least frowned upon for environmental reasons, or at least I know I've read something about that. Maybe it's "suntan oil" that's prohibited. Anyhow, I use "bullfrog" gel which I've found to be fairly waterproof and greaseless through years of high altitude hiking; that's a real test for sunblock. Just apply it well in advance of exposure and it soaks in pretty well, which should minimize any pollution run-off in the marine park. I would try to minimize your reliance on sunblock with a nice big goofy hat, maybe with an even goofier drawstring to keep from losing it on the fast boats, light weight long sleeves and pants for the surface interval if you're really pale, and a dive skin or full length wet suit while diving. I've definitely felt the sun on safety stops.
You're going to have a great time; the only problem is that you'll be pretty spoiled for any other diving after doing your OW dives there.
Regarding the sunblock, I believe it's prohibited or at least frowned upon for environmental reasons, or at least I know I've read something about that. Maybe it's "suntan oil" that's prohibited. Anyhow, I use "bullfrog" gel which I've found to be fairly waterproof and greaseless through years of high altitude hiking; that's a real test for sunblock. Just apply it well in advance of exposure and it soaks in pretty well, which should minimize any pollution run-off in the marine park. I would try to minimize your reliance on sunblock with a nice big goofy hat, maybe with an even goofier drawstring to keep from losing it on the fast boats, light weight long sleeves and pants for the surface interval if you're really pale, and a dive skin or full length wet suit while diving. I've definitely felt the sun on safety stops.
You're going to have a great time; the only problem is that you'll be pretty spoiled for any other diving after doing your OW dives there.
A hat on the boat is a good idea, but be sure you have some way of securing it to the boat if not wearing. (and to YOU if wearing) Those small boats go pretty fast, and things get blown around. Some sort of dry bag is not a bad idea either, if you want to keep a dry towel or somesuch available, as everything can get pretty wet if the boat is hitting waves and throwing spray. :burnout: But its all worth it, and then some. Just go, and you will do fine. Pretty much everyone does. One last word- If you are prone to sea sickness, taking something beforehand might benefit you greatly. I have little or no problem ( at least with this, anyway 
) but my wife would be lost without her meclizine. I know that some consider medications like this rather controversial, but she has been depending on this for years, and our doctor has no problem with it. Just be sure that you get the generic equivalent from a well stocked pharmacy. The brand name stuff you can buy most everywhere is WAY overpriced. 
