Divemaster Training in the Galapagos?

[SFdeckhand]

Hi all,
I am planning a trip to Ecuador this spring with the intention of learning Spanish and pursuing my divemaster certification. I am looking for a 5 star Padi affiliated dive institution that offers divemaster courses in the Galapagos. I found Sol y Mar Diving Academy online.... Does anyone have any experience with this outfit? Should I bring my dry suit or will the water temp. be warm enough for 5/6mm wet suit? I have roughly 100 dives logged in Monterey/Carmel Bay area.

Thanks for your feedback

 

[cavew0man]

I have absolutely NO useful information for you, but I am totally jealous.

 

[whaleshark09]

You do not need a drysuit, temperature ranges between 62 F (the coldest in the Central Islands) to 70's in the summer season, in theory any active PADI instructor should be able to give the course, and there are a few in the islands (at least 10 or more).

I will just name some of the shops that advertise themselves as PADI, probably there are more, so my list is not exclusive, as new diving operations are begining to work in the islands: Scuba Iguana (amongst the oldest dive shops), Nauti Diving, Subaqua.

When you arrive to Puerto Ayora in Santa Cruz Island just visit them and decide based upon your impression of their operations, that can help you to decide for one or another, go diving with them and that can show you a lot about how well organized someone is, as it will probably be reflected in the course and training you get.

Life in a little expensive on the islands for Ecuador's standards, fruits are very expensive even the "green bananas" that you fry, rent is higher than in the mainland also (around 400-500 USD/month for a nice room and restroom with a galley and refrigerator included).

Check the internet, just type the words and they pop-up, and start your initial contacts from that.

Have fun and enjoy your dives