Taking the next step

[spectrum]

Sounds like SOME of the equipment can be cost prohibitive.......I expect some expense, but it's interesting to read which items tend to be slated for "later" purchasing.

I guess I always figured that I'd buy my own gear. What about those Flag Tubes that I've seen some divers use, to identify the fact that they are "in the water?" Is that a requirement these days?

I found it interesting for example that nobody talked about those watches that are depth meters, and weight belts, etc..

-Soupy1957

All of that other gearn will follow certification. Some complete certification and decide it's not for them. To get outfitted as a local dive plan on $2500 give or take $500 as a ballpark investment.


Dive flag requirements will vary from place to place. NH does require that you fly a flag. The DMR does patrol Winnie and will cite you if caught.

Pete

 

[Moebius]

Soupy1957 go for it. Your rates sound very reasonable but I would classify diving as an expensive sport with gear and trips etc. I too grew up around water. Became interested in diving about five years ago and was OW cert the beginning of this year for my 55th birthday. Have done fresh and salt water dives. Just love the world of water.
Moebius my hat is off to you with 72 degree water, my cert dives were at 40 degrees at surface and less after 25 ft. Brrrrrrr

I will no longer think I had it bad for my training dives.

My disclaimer is that now I have lived in Florida for 18 years, the water in our pool needs to be well above 80F before I will consider it comfortable. It just happens.

 

[jpwred]

i startted diving less than a year ago at 54. on my first dive trip there was a 65 year old woman that had been diving about 9 months. she was in fantastic shape. i say go for it. spend as much money as you are comfortable with, go dive where you are comfortable and just enjoy yourself! it is never too late and maybe you can convince your wife and/or children to join you.