mi000ke
Contributor
- Messages
- 1,143
- Reaction score
- 1,735
- Location
- Massachusetts & Grand Cayman Island
- # of dives
- 200 - 499
I’m going to be in the Caribbean next month for a few days of diving, and some of the dive ops I’ve contacted about a 2-tank boat dive typically do the first dive to about 100 fsw, and a second shallow dive. I have only the basic OW certification and have avoided doing dives much deeper than 60’ on all of my 25 previous dives, and that’s worked out fine with the other divers. I’ve actually been to a bit over 70’ on a couple of dives, and really did not notice any difference. A couple of the ops I contacted said I could stay up at 60’ while they are down at 100, but I will be diving as a single and usually buddy with the DM. Being 40’ more shallow would make me essentially a solo, and I won’t do that. But other than faster air consumption, shorter NDL, and possibly some narcosis (I don’t know how I’d be affected having not gone that deep yet, but feel nothing at 60’) why not go to 100’ with the DM? I tend to be very relaxed when I dive, not at all anxious, check my air and NDL frequently, have pretty good buoyancy control, and a fairly low rate of air consumption (after years of playing sax and practicing controlled breathing). So why not go for it? I suppose I could arrange for some deep dive instruction first, but really don't want to spend the money if going to 100' is not that a big deal.
Your opinions are greatly appreciated.
Your opinions are greatly appreciated.