We have boat coats that we put over our wetsuits once we are back on the boat, that keeps us warm enough even if the skipper wants to try another spot, because you get warm again once you are back in the water.
It's very difficult to rent a drysuit anywhere in that area, not even sure you can. You don't need it, necessarily. The captains wear them because they are in the water hours ever day, day after day. It is the cumulative loss of energy with wetsuits that makes them go dry. But, for a couple of dives, it's just not cold enough to rent one.
---------- Post added January 24th, 2014 at 12:00 PM ----------
They now have a no-strobe rule until at least one hour after sunrise. Also, no video lights allowed at any time. These are sensible rules and, most times, strobes are not necessary for a good shot. If you want a backlit manatee with light rays, with fill light on the animal, then the sun needs to be high, anyway.
If you have a good camera rig, you will be asked if you are a professional, as any pro photography requires a permit.
Bird's also told us that no-touch was under consideration. Personally, I would regret that, as being still, having one come up and roll over for belly scratch is truly a joy. We stopped the fin rubbing a long time ago. But, bad actors can ruin things for all of us, how often have we seen that happen . . .
It's very difficult to rent a drysuit anywhere in that area, not even sure you can. You don't need it, necessarily. The captains wear them because they are in the water hours ever day, day after day. It is the cumulative loss of energy with wetsuits that makes them go dry. But, for a couple of dives, it's just not cold enough to rent one.
---------- Post added January 24th, 2014 at 12:00 PM ----------
They now have a no-strobe rule until at least one hour after sunrise. Also, no video lights allowed at any time. These are sensible rules and, most times, strobes are not necessary for a good shot. If you want a backlit manatee with light rays, with fill light on the animal, then the sun needs to be high, anyway.
If you have a good camera rig, you will be asked if you are a professional, as any pro photography requires a permit.
Bird's also told us that no-touch was under consideration. Personally, I would regret that, as being still, having one come up and roll over for belly scratch is truly a joy. We stopped the fin rubbing a long time ago. But, bad actors can ruin things for all of us, how often have we seen that happen . . .
