First Ocean Dive

[XXXLDiver]

Hi Everyone,
I am going on a cruise in a couple of weeks and I have signed up for two dives, one in Puerto Vallarta (dont trust my spelling) and one in Cabo. I have a lot of questions since this is my first ocean dive and will just list them here. I appreciate any and all suggestions and opinions.

1.) I have Atomic split fins, but have heard that split fins aren't that great in strong currents. Will I have problems diving with them at either destination?

2.) Has anyone heard about any problems since the Pacific side of Mexico has been hit with 2 hurricanes recently? Is it going to be worth it to dive?

3.) Will a 3mm shorty be okay to dive in these waters? Or should I get a thicker suit.

4.) I am going on Princess Cruises, has anyone had any bad experiences with taking a dive excursion from them?

5.) I would also appreciate any information on diving at either of these destinations.

Thanks in advance for any information,
Rick

 

[jbd]

Split fins may not work well when working aganist a current but if ther is a current you will probbaly be drift diving not working against the current.

Hurricanes can cause substantial damage to reefs. That doesn't necessarily make the diving bad though. It still withnessing Mother Nature in all her glory. If there is substantial damge to the reefs when you dive there make note of it. Write your observations in your log book. Then plan a trip back to the same sites 5 years later and see how much has been repaired by nature.

 

[rocketry]

Don't have much time to comment....but 3mm shorty should be just fine.

 

[mistressmotorsports]

According to the expers, split fins should be fine. I had the same question a month ago (you can search the fins section) and was directed here:

http://scubatoys.com/store/joelarry/splitcurrent.asp

The key, as was explained to me, is to kick small but quickly. I would also agree that a 3mm shorty is ok. Sorry, can't help with the other questions.

 

[BurBunny]

Princess' New Waves program is one of the better ones among the cruise lines. Talk with the instructor/DM onboard and let them know you're a brand new diver. Don't hesitate to repeat that to the dive op you actually go out with.

Remember, the key with splits when you need power is not big strokes, but smaller, faster strokes. Think flutter.

Generally, the dive ops will also have rental suits as part of their rental package if you need more exposure protection.