Warmwater Wank
Contributor
RoatanMan is spot on about small stuff and good buoyancy skills. I dove West End area for the first time in March and saw things that kept me plenty happy (hey, the water was warm--I was happy) but then I went back for 2 more weeks this summer and really saw things. Yeah, my buoyancy was better (practice, practice) but the real difference for me was dive ops. What a shock to see all that is there on the reef when you are shown where and how to look! I dove with Sea Grape Plantation Dive Shop, which is run by a great guy (Louis) who is a local and a former Anthony's Key DM. His knowledge of the waters and critters therein is exceeded only by his infectious enthusiasm to show you what he treasures. (How he keeps a reg in his mouth with the grin he always has is a mystery of the deep.) Seriously different diving compared to racing along with other dive ops just to cover a "route". You have time to stop and really SEE amazing things with Louis. They have great prices, new rental gear if needed, new boats etc. When I'm back there in March it will be with Sea Grape. And I'll bring some magnifying glasses. www.segraperoatan.com (And no, I have no affiliation with Sea Grape, just great memories!)