What training to take next

[RandomGuy1]

Not referring to AOW, but more beginner type technical instruction. I currently have AOW, and will have rescue, nitrox and deep recreational training by the time I am thinking of starting down the this route, but I am not sure really where to start. I have a vacation coming up in October where I will have a few days I can slip away from the family to go diving while in Orlando Florida, and since I would be diving with an instabuddy, I am thinking I may as well take a class and learn something. My long term goal is to get more time on deeper wrecks, but I also like the idea of possibly doing some cavern dives to see if I like that direction. My buoyancy is decent, but not to the point where I am perfectly happy with it. I have thought about taking while I am there either a cavern course, or intro to tech. I am limited to probably 3 or at most 4 days and would like to stay withing 2 hours of Orlando. I am open to other suggestions though. I currently have 30 dives and will probably have over 50 by the time October rolls around. I am open to suggestions?

 

[tomfcrist]

If you have yet to get really comfortable with buoyancy, I would suggest an intro to tech class, GUE fundies, or a hardcore buoyancy mentoring session with someone who has a clue. AN/DP would give you the extra time on recreational depth wrecks and slightly beyond, but you will be shelling out a considerable sum for new gear(you will have to do this if you want to get into tech any way you look at it).

My opinion is that you should be comfortable with buoyancy and trim prior to starting any decompression related training.

 

[tbone1004]

where in NC are you? There are a lot of divers that are diving regularly in Raleigh/Gboro/Charlotte that will be able to kick your butt to get you where you need to be to get the full benefits out of a cavern/intro class. PM if if you want contact info or get on the facebook groups where these guys are posting regularly. Previous posts say you're in Hickory, so get with the Charlotte area divers that are at Lake Norman Quarry regularly, if you want to get serious you need a PDRA membership. These guys can actually help get you to the point that you'll really appreciate cave training.

 

[RandomGuy1]

My opinion is that you should be comfortable with buoyancy and trim prior to starting any decompression related training.

I agree, that is why I am not looking to get into decompression yet. I am really looking to get more fundamentals so as I practice on my own I don't develop any bad habits and not realize it.

tbone - PM sent

 

[TSandM]

It sounds as though GUE Fundamentals would be right up your alley. If you are looking at the kind of diving you are, you will need a technical type setup anyway (the class has gear requirements). The class can be taken in a single tank, and focuses on creating a stable platform in the water which allows tolerance of significant task-loading. There are a number of GUE instructors in Florida, although none precisely in Orlando.

 

[PfcAJ]

I can't recommend a GUE Fundamentals course enough. Its literally the best scuba class I've ever seen.

The level of instruction is top notch and the course content is extremely relevant to all types of diving, no matter what you decide to do post-class. Really its great.

You've got a number of Florida based instructors like Doug Mudry, Kyle Harmon, Mer Tanguay, Mark Messersmith, and Bob Sherwood (not sure when he's going back to NY). I know all of them personally and they're all fantastic people and excellent divers. You really can't go wrong.

 

[tbone1004]

I think Mer is teaching fundies at Fantasy Lake in Raleigh at some point soon. Get on facebook and request to join here
https://www.facebook.com/groups/RADivers/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/carolinawreckdivers/
That's another good group

regarding the PM
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/members/tony-chaney-161571.html
that will be one of your better resources for dive buddies. He is a DAMN good diver and a great guy in general. He dives up at Lake Norman regularly and as he's a Marine, he'll have no problem kicking your ass prior to any technical courses

 

[kensuf]

Fundies is supposed to be good, I also think Cavern can be a great course. But I am also going to say just go do some diving. Experience is a great teacher.

 

[uncfnp]

From what I know of fundies, I don't think I would plan that during the relatively short time you have on vacation. You are staying in Orlando in October. Do Cavern.

 

[KevinNM]

I think Mer is teaching fundies at Fantasy Lake in Raleigh at some point soon. Get on facebook and request to join here
https://www.facebook.com/groups/RADivers/

She'll be there in July. She's running a split weekend fundamentals course and a regular fundamentals course. I'm taking fundamentals from her in June.
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