I certified in Seattle in February in 44 degree water several years ago. We used 6.5 millimeter wet suits called farmer johns which have two layers over the body and one on the arms and legs. I dun even remember how much weight it took to get down but I know it was a lot. I dove with this comfiguation for several years and then moved to Asia and dove in a skin regardless of the water temperature.
Diving in the sound can be very good and very poor. One dive I got in the water and looked down and could not see my fins. Other times the visibility is better.....not great like 100 meters in Indonesia. A torch is always a good thing even in clear water to poke into holes and creavices.
Rental gear is supplied with the course fee typically and I would recommend diving with some rental gear until you decide scuba is for you and find out what you like. If you wanna PM me I can recommend some dive shops I know in the area that treated me well.
Diving in the sound can be very good and very poor. One dive I got in the water and looked down and could not see my fins. Other times the visibility is better.....not great like 100 meters in Indonesia. A torch is always a good thing even in clear water to poke into holes and creavices.
Rental gear is supplied with the course fee typically and I would recommend diving with some rental gear until you decide scuba is for you and find out what you like. If you wanna PM me I can recommend some dive shops I know in the area that treated me well.
