Greetings from San Jose (CA)!

[TheBullfrog]

Hello my fellow divers

New diver here, open water certified with 20 dives under my belt. All cold water in Monterey, CA, so I made sure to get dry suit certified as well. I've been waiting to get my certification for decades. Life just kept getting in the way. However, now that I've finally fulfilled that dream, I am in the water every chance I get.

Although I am a new diver, I am a stickler for safety and conservatism. If there is anyone out there who dives Monterey who wants/needs a buddy, please feel free to reach out. I may not be the "best" diver out there, but I'm a reliable buddy and I have a true passion for diving.

I'm especially interested in newer divers who want to work on skills. Don't get me wrong, I love to experience all the beauty and wonder under the water, but I'm happy to practice skills and improve habits along the way. So hit me up if you looking to dial in your set up or just want to get in the shallows and practice. I'm good with that too.

Thanks everyone!

 

[fatgeorge]

Hi neighbor, I'm also in SJ although I'm not diving in Monterey, its too cold for me. Curious if you have all the equipment already, as rental prices in Monterey are crazy (as pretty much everything here in Bay Area)?

 

[TheBullfrog]

Well hey neighbor.

Yes, Monterey is cold, however, I'm never cold. A dry suit combined with warm undergarments are a thing of beauty both in AND out of the water.

But yes, I did buy everything pretty early on. I did some budget calculations and the rental prices add up quickly if you are diving frequently. I always keep my eyes and ears open for good deals and equipment from people who bought the entire setup and then decided not to dive anymore. That sadly happens a lot.

EVERYTHING is crazy priced here. I'm from Baltimore, MD and have lived in the Bay Area for going on 18 years. I still am not, and will never get used to the expense of living here!

 

[runsongas]

check with the SJ flipper dippers, they used to meet near great america but might have gone remote