First ocean dive ever at Hanks / Hustler - any tips?

[dstrout]

All--

I'm signed up for a trip to Hanks wreck and the Gulf Hustler with Divequarters out of Virginia Beach on June 28. This will be my first dive after getting my cert in Millbrook quarry. My dive partner has ~100 dives, but most are tropical.

Any hints or things we should watch out for would be greatly appreciated.

thanks,
dave.

 

[Wil]

Dave,

You'll enjoy diving the Hanks and Gulf Hustler. The Gulf Hustler is intact, upright, and has lots to see. The Hanks isn't in quite as good shape but still has lots to offer. Both wrecks aren't that big so navigation isn't a problem. I've got a scanned image of the Gulf Hustler on my profile. You can see the Gulf Hustler is upright, pilot house and aft dredge rig visible.

A dive light and wreck reel are always good advice to have on any dive. The water temp a few weeks ago was about 47-48deg. Probably a few degrees warmer now but still requires using a hood and gloves. The best advice; plan your dive with your buddy, dive your plan, and have a great time!

Post a dive report when you get back.

Safe Diving,
Will

 

[jl_va_21]

I dove the Hanks last year and was disappointed. It was my 2nd ocean dive (first wreck dive) and I had this picture in my mind of seeing something identifiable as once having been a boat of some sort. That is not the case. Its basically a trash heap. That said though, it was a nice dive trip and got some good experience. Up to that point, the depth (68' I think) was about the deepest I'd done... and it was my first time going out such a long distance on such a large boat..etc... (done with Lynhaven Dive Center... great boat and staff). The vis was about 8 feet at best and the temp (memorial day) was in the low 50's.

Despite it not quite living up to my expectations, it was still fun. I think it is impossible to dive without having fun somehow, or learning something new - especially when you are new. I've been diving in more challenging conditions since then and I think this dive was a good preparatory step in the process.

So in summary - I think you will enjoy it, but don't set your expectations too high for what you will see when you get there.