Tampa/St Pete dive shops

[spinin360]

I just moved to Tampa, and I am hoping some locals can tell me some of the "go" & "don't go" dive shops in the area?


I have learned the hard way that not all dive shops are created equal, and unfortunately that lesson involved a very serious problem that should have been caught during the equipment servicing. bottom line, I don't want to trust an amateur shop that doesn't know what they are doing.

 

[ScottZeagle]

Depth Perception is a great shop that I would trust my own gear to.

They are located in Brandon, so it should be close to you!

Thier phone # is 813-689-3483.

Welcome to the area!!

Scott

 

[Firebrand]

I'd have to agree with Scott (whom I think may have been my Nitrox instructor!) because I have gone through them for all my diving since I arrived here. They are on the corner of Adamo Drive and US 301 in Brandon, but WELL WORTH THE DRIVE!

 

[spinin360]

ok, but that is just one shop.... any other commentary on other local places??

 

[purduepete007]

Let see other dive shops, well there's Depth Perception. The only dive in Tampa.

 

[simbrooks]

Over in St Pete is Tackleshack, they havent got an extensive line of gear, not sure what other services. They were very helpful when i was rigging up my boat for supplies, i briefly glanced at their dive area and it had some stuff. Worth a look in if nothing else.

 

[ScottZeagle]

I said Depth Perception simply because you are in Brandon. Off of Hillsborough AVe in Tampa is EZ Scuba. In Clearwater is Mac's Sports. In St Pete is Aquatic Obsession....

All good dealers - take your pick!!

 

[spinin360]

thanks, that's more what I'm looking for. You never know what area of town you might find yourself with a half hour to kill.... any "don't go there" mentions?

 

[Firebrand]

Not really. Bill Jackson's comes to my mind though. They are priced higher than everyone else I know. It is an outdoor sporting goods store, and doesn't really specialize in scuba diving. But then again, some people swear up and down by Bill Jackson's. I'd stick to Aquatic Obsessions on Central Ave.