1st Dive without instructor

[on_two_wheels]

Went to catalina yesterday with a friend that is as new to diving as I am. Scary concept, right? We both got a little ill on the boat ride....pretty rough water. Still got three dives in but didn't go below 40 feet except for about 2-3 minutes at 60. I didn't want to lose my buddy so we spent a limited time in the kelp beds. First dive was GREAT!! 40 ft of viz I'm guessing and lots of life. That's the most I've experienced so far. Then the boat moved to calmer waters and the viz dropped to less than half that. If that wasn't enough, there was nothing there for the beginner really. If we wanted to spend the whole time in the kelp, sure. I figure I'll play it safe until my skills get to be more second nature. Still, a good day underwater!!

 

[El Orans]

Any day underwater is a good day.

 

[Walter]

Went to catalina yesterday with a friend that is as new to diving as I am. Scary concept, right?

Absolutely not. Assuming you are certified, you should be qualified to make such dives with others who are equally experienced.

 

[b1draper]

Take it slow and don't forget if your not comfortable with a dive don't do it.

 

[talonraid]

Congratulations on your "cherry" dive!

Now, the harassment will begin: I dive in Texas lakes and 2-3 foot vis is a normal day! 10-20 foot vis is unheard of and 40 foot vis is a fairytale. No more griping about vis!

Seriously, I'm just jealous of your location. Have fun diving.

Cheers.

 

[PinkPADIgal]

It sounds like you are cautious and doing what your instructor told you...diving within your limits. I wish more students would do that.

I have heard the Catalina Kelp beds are fantastic. Congrats on 3 great dives.

 

[pir8]

Good job
Keep it up and your confidence will grow as you build up your experience level.

 

[fisheater]

As long you keep the distinction between fear and caution, you'll do great.

Sounds like you're doing a great job of thinking through the potential dangers of your dives and planning around them. Keep it up!

 

[Blackwood]

Congratulations. Keep it up.

Whereabouts in SoCal are you?

 

[grumpie]

Congratulations. The first dive is always a little frightening, but as you go along they get better. Im in minn. where we are still ice diving. we had some snow this morning and we have 24-30 inches of ice on the lakes. just keep diving and have a good time and maybe some day yoy will be up here ice diving. the regulars dsive almost every week end.
grumpie.....