Would appreciate some advice on diving near Tampa Bay/St. Pete?

[victoriawtx]

hi everyone!

I am going to St. Petersburg, Florida for a residency interview either next week or the next. I think since I am going, that I would love to be able to get some dives in. I don't know if I will have a car (if they will provide one for me) and I'll probably only have one free day.

I would really appreciate any suggestions for diving spots/dive shops that you would recommend.

thank you so much,

 

[Walter]

What day will you have free?

 

[victoriawtx]

says that he is flexible. But the university there will only pay for two night's hotel stay.

And they also will not give me a car, they said that someone will come and retrieve me from the Tampa Bay airport and take me to the hotel. (I was thinking I'd just foot the bill and get one myself??)

So I was thinking that I could fly in one day earlier and do some diving?? Are there particular days that you would suggest I try to get there?

I am still waiting on the travel secretary to get back to me with options.

thanks!!

 

[Walter]

I have dive buddies in the area. If you'll be able to dive on a Saturday or Sunday, I'll contact them and try to set up some dives. Plan on an all day trip.

 

[victoriawtx]

I am looking forward to seeing the sights! I really appreciate all your help.

I can't wait to do some Florida diving tomorrow!!

thanks again everyone,

 

[victoriawtx]

to formally thank Walter for going above, and beyond, the regular call of 'host' to a travelling fellow scuba diver. (serene music playing.....) LOL

Not only did he take the time to arrange a spot for me on a great charter boat called the Narcosis (near West Palm Beach, Florida) he also took time out of his schedule to pick me up at my hotel and drive me CLEAR across the state to get there.

I am both amazed and touched by the hospitality I was shown.

The diving was fantastic! I saw my VERY FIRST SHARK!!!! I was SO excited. It was a beautiful reef shark that way just hanging out in the area. It was absolutely amazing, and the highlight of my entire trip. (It sure beat the rest of the trip, which was spent in all-day interviews for days!!) LOL

The charter had 21 of us divers on it, and we all had a great time. My dive buddies were Walter and Robert, an avid photographer. I am looking forward to seeing the photos that Robert took during the dives.

This was the first time I have been on a boat and gotten sea sick. YUCKY. I now understand what it feels like. LOL

They think that it was because I was sitting at the back of the boat, and I inhaled too many exhaust fumes. I was fine in other parts of the boat, and the seas were relatively calm.

But it is a bit embarassing, when this is the first time you are meeting people, and trying not to be sick all over them!! LOL But, I have to say, that there is a certain amount of fellowship and bonding that takes place when you are so sick, and other divers are sympathizing and taking care of you. I think I have made friends for life. LOL

Thank you again Florida and Walter! for being such great hosts to me. I look forward to diving with you again soon!

Thank you!

 

[jviehe]

nt

 

[victoriawtx]

They are down to two candidates right now, myself, and another person that is being interviewed this week.

They will make their decision next week, or so I am told.

But right now, I have to pack again. I have another interview starting tomorrow at a different university. WHEW!!

I am VERY tired...

(But the diving has been great!!) LOL