Referral Dives in Florida

[dive1973]

Hi,

We're planning a trip to Florida in the next two to three weeks (mid March to early April '07) to do our referral dives.

I would appreciate any input and suggestions on the dive shops and locations where we can go. We're open to any part of Florida.

Thanks,

D

 

[H2Andy]

you should probably concentrate on Key Largo ... some very nice, easy, shallow dives but with lots to see

Conch Republic Divers are very good, and offer private or semi-private (i.e. small) classes

http://www.conchrepublicdivers.com/

 

[Lamar Jr]

I suggest going to Boynton Beach and diving with Splashdown. Awesome drift diving and a first class dive boat. Boynton is about half-way between Boca Raton and West Palm Beach, so there's plenty to see and do when your not diving.

http://www.splashdowndivers.com/

 

[dldiver]

Contact Ranger Rick - he's based in Orlando but dives regularly out of West Palm and along the Southeast Florida coast.
http://www.rangerrickscuba.com/

Rick is an independent instructor and has excellent relationships with several shops and great boats and will even arrange for your transportation to and from Orlando (you have the option of being close to the springs if the Ocean isn't cooperating).

He will also meet you almost anywhere in Florida and tailor the classes/schedule to your needs. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions and I'll be happy to help out!

 

[Bob Vincent]

Key Largo Dive Capital of the World. If you want a big boat good staff modern big boats they have 2 50 ft Newton Dive boats but carry alot of passengers. 800.451.1113.

If you'd like smaller boats, small groups and personal attention then Silent World runs 2 boats with up to 12 divers. Ask for Captan Bob and Pat tell them Bob Vincent told you about them. 800.966.DIVE

 

[MsParamedic]

We at Silent World would love to help you out with your check outs if you choose The Keys and Key Largo as your destination.

Very often, you are the only ones doing the dives with the instructor and we try to insure a GREAT experience for you.


BTW...
Hi Bob!!! And how are things up in STL???? And get back down here again real soon!

Pat

 

[LI Diver]

I have to second Conch Republic Divers. Capt. Gary certified my children and myself they were great with the kids and patient with me! Real easy but beautiful dive sites and great boats! He's here on the board as Capt Gary.
Ed
PS ck out my gallery to see photo's of Capt. Gary and my daughter Nikki doing drills while surronded by beautiful marine life!
http://www.scubaboard.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=47785

 

[Mthelming]

http://americanprodiving.com/ They are in Crystal River, diving in the springs (Constant upper 70's), with the Manatees.....

 

[SeaLevelScuba]

We have OW dives on March 24 & 25 out of Deerfield Beach, and can accomodate both PADI & SSI affliations. If that time frame will for you we would be happy to accomodate your referral process.

Schott

 

[shakeybrainsurgeon]

agree with key largo --- consider larry gates (larrygates.com) for private checkouts with Ocean Divers (mm 100)...there is a reasonable motel adjacent to the dock (marina del mar). Larry is great, very helpful.

lots of good operators and easy fun diving in Key Largo and its just about an hour or so drive from Miami airport, just a little farther from Ft Lauderdale airport

good luck