Just back from the trip. The snorkeling in Homosassa was lots of fun. Were quite a few manatees that wanted to play. Went out very early (on the water by 6:30). Few people or boats and friendly manatees. Was there with my son (4 y.o.) who had a great time. Re. manatees heading out, I was told that end of this month they'll start to leave Homosassa River. Also told that some hang around during the summer in Crystal River.
Drift dive in Rainbow River was a great experience! Went with American Pro Dive, which I liked very much. Thanks to the springs, the water was extremely clear -- great vis. As Bison indicated, depth changed constantly (often going shallow enough to have my computer shut off -- said I only dove 40 minutes when it was really about an hour and five minutes). Saw everything from snapping turtles, gar, an otter and some diving bird ('fraid I don't remember the name) that shot past me like a torpedo. Probably the best part was going near the shore where the brush from the shore extended over the water creating a canopy of sorts -- diving under the canopy was great.
I also share Bison's warning -- although my dive buddy and I tried to stay close to the dive boat, which served as our flag, still had a relatively close call with a motor boat. Since the depth changes and it is necessary to come fairly close to the surface, really is a need to be careful. I think that, next time, I'd prefer to carry the dive flag rather than just rely on the boat that floated with us.
Overall: two thumbs up
Drift dive in Rainbow River was a great experience! Went with American Pro Dive, which I liked very much. Thanks to the springs, the water was extremely clear -- great vis. As Bison indicated, depth changed constantly (often going shallow enough to have my computer shut off -- said I only dove 40 minutes when it was really about an hour and five minutes). Saw everything from snapping turtles, gar, an otter and some diving bird ('fraid I don't remember the name) that shot past me like a torpedo. Probably the best part was going near the shore where the brush from the shore extended over the water creating a canopy of sorts -- diving under the canopy was great.
I also share Bison's warning -- although my dive buddy and I tried to stay close to the dive boat, which served as our flag, still had a relatively close call with a motor boat. Since the depth changes and it is necessary to come fairly close to the surface, really is a need to be careful. I think that, next time, I'd prefer to carry the dive flag rather than just rely on the boat that floated with us.
Overall: two thumbs up
