Boat Charter For Coral Research

[Ruminari]

A little background - My wife is pursuing her Ph. D in Chemistry at the University of Idaho and is doing a portion of her research on coral bleaching. For part of the study she will need to sample specimens in their natural environment. Currently she is writing a grant proposal for her research and needs to get an estimate for chartering a dive boat for 4-5 days in the Keys.

Can anyone recommend a good dive boat charter service in the Keys? The boat does not need to be large as it will only need to carry my wife and myself as divers, possibly a DM as well. She is currently looking into chartering an entire boat so that it will provide her the freedom to perform her research.

Thanks for your replies.

 

[KeyLargoBrent]

You can rent a small boat from ~$200/day plus fuel, and hire a divemaster for ~$100/day. Dive boat charters start at ~$300/half-day, including fuel and crew, and vary according to vessel capacity and amenities.

 

[Ruminari]

Thanks for the info.

 

[PapaBob]

I support any research that will help us understand and preserve the marine environment, and I support your wife's research. Before you come, it is against Florida law to take live coral in Florida waters and it is against federal law to take coral in a marine sanctuary. I'm sure there are research exeptions and permits available. Please make sure your wife has the necessary permits. Good luck.

---Bob

 

[Ruminari]

Bob - She's aware of the restrictions on coral harvesting and she has looked briefly into acquiring specimens for scientific purposes. From the surface there doesn't appear to be any major concerns, but I think that she feels that will be something to deal with a little later. But thanks for the heads up, this could have been an easily overlooked, fundamental concern.

I support any research that will help us understand and preserve the marine environment, and I support your wife's research. Before you come, it is against Florida law to take live coral in Florida waters and it is against federal law to take coral in a marine sanctuary. I'm sure there are research exeptions and permits available. Please make sure your wife has the necessary permits. Good luck.

---Bob