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brent_j

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Hi all, I am on my way to the Mayan Riviera next month to complete my OW certification. I am really looking forward to diving a few times while there with a local dive shop. Can someone tell me what to expect when I go with them on a boat dive and anything I should remember? What do you do if you are going alone?
 
Hi Brent, the diving in the Yucatan area is very nice, who are you doing your certification with, Scuba Cancun?
 
Diving with Tank-ha from Playa Del Carmen
 
I dove with Tank-Ha in February. Good operation, fun DM. I'm sure Desiree will make sure that you're OK. She is very efficient when it comes to answering emails, so put together a list of questions. That way, you'll get the answers right from "the horse's mouth." There's no such thing as a silly question, if the answer makes you feel more comfortable.

We dove a site called Tortuga Reef, and one called Barracuda. The current at Tortuga may be a little much for a newbie, so I don't know if they'll take you there. We saw well in excess of 30 turtles on that dive, but the current was around 3 knots.

Most important thing is to have fun. PDC is a great town.
 
Try this topic, and the link inside it:
http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=134746&highlight=dive+boat+etiquette

In general, you tell the divemaster or captian you're alone and that you're a newly-certified diver, and they'll find you a suitable buddy, or maybe the divemaster will buddy with you. Some boats have a divemaster in the water 'guiding' the group, some do not. Be candid and forthcoming, and most reputable outfits will do what they can to match you up with someone.

It worked out for me. Ask questions, most divers are more that willing to help out. This is how you learn, especially in your first "no instructor" dives.
 
I dove with Tank-Ha last August. They run a great operation! Not sure if any of the same instructors and DM's are there...but Andy, Alessandro and Arjan are all awesome. They will take good care of you. And Desiree is great too...very helpful.

We dove Tortugas and it was AWESOME. So many turtles. I don't remember the current being very strong (and I am a new diver...even newer back then) but make sure you ask them before you sign up for something. Make sure you are comfortable.

Let us know how it goes!!
 
Bring sunscreen. Also, from my dive boat experience, I would suggest a plastic bag to keep your shirt and towel. Too many wet towels. Oh, and maybe this is just me, but sometimes the salt water and the lining of my shorts makes me itch. A second pair of shorts may be nice.

Money for tips also.
 

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