need a dive operator recommendation near Key Largo

[BillM777]

I will be visiting the Key Largo this weekend and would like to get a recommendation for a dive operator. Not looking for a large crowded boat and I would prefer not to "follow-the-divemaster". Are there any operators who will take us to a dive site, brief us on what to look for, and then let my buddy and I explore?

Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks!

Bill

 

[CajunDiva]

We have been diving with Rainbow Reef Dive Center Dive Key Largo, Florida Keys with Rainbow Reef Dive Center;scuba diving:diving, Florida keys, florida diving for the past 10 years. We've never been disappointed. They do provide dive guides at no additional charge, but it's not mandatory that you follow them. You can just listen to the dive briefing and do your own thing - just be sure to let them know so they won't be trying to keep track of you...

They are a very safe and friendly dive operation.

 

[sportxlh]

Silent World will let you do your own thing: I had a nice day of diving with them in May. With proper training/certification, they'll let you dive anyway you want on the double dips they do on the deep wrecks (e.g. deco, solo, etc. etc.).

Conch Republic has a really big boat and a moderate sized boat. This time of year, neither seems to be filled to the gills so you can get a really stable ride on the big one without being elbow to elbow with other divers. I had a nice 3 days of diving with CRD last month.

Neither operator puts DM's in the water: both provide good pre-dive descriptions.

 

[kelemvor]

I second silent world. Rainbow Reef isn't bad, either. RR has a three boats, one of which is about the same size as the Silent World IV. I say silent world, because they seem much less used to babysitting divers and will be more likely to let you mind your business.

On the other hand, the big boats are really nice if they're 3/4 full (or less).

 

[opie712]

AKA diving in taveriner just south of key largo is a great op they are a 6 pack boat but when we went out with them it was just me and the wife great op and great people they don't do any baby sitting we have went out with several ops and no one compares to them

 

[BillM777]

Thanks for the suggestions. Rainbow Reef is fully booked this weekend, so it looks like Silent World is the way to go so we booked them.

Thanks for the help!!
Bill

 

[muzikbiz22]

I third Silent World. Also, give Quiescence a nod

 

[kwinter]

Keep in mind that Silent World is under new ownership since Chris moved back to England. I'm sure it hasn't changed much, but you never know. I use Conch Republic.

 

[muzikbiz22]

Keep in mind that Silent World is under new ownership since Chris moved back to England. I'm sure it hasn't changed much, but you never know. I use Conch Republic.

The employees bought the shop/business from Chris. They are as "on their game", as ever

 

[FaithC]

Has anyone used Horizon Divers? I'm thinking about a trip early next year.