Visiting San Diego

[MCL]

Well, I've been checking out the SoCal group for a while now trying to glean as much info as I can and I've been pretty impressed. I'm coming to San Diego for business in March and am going to do a day of diving. I've not signed up yet, but I'm planning on going out with Dive Connections on Sunday, March 13 for a couple of dives in the Kelp. I dove at the Marine room with a friend last year (who no longer lives there), so I'm somewhat familiar with the conditions you all have out there. Actually, if you take away the surf and the salt and it is a lot like an Ohio Quarry! Anyway, I've never dove kelp and I was thinking of hiring a divemaster/guide to buddy with through DCI. So, my question is, if I was to just buddy up with someone on the boat, how have peoples experience been with that, and does anyone have any experience with the divemasters through DCI? Any info will be appreciated.

Mike

 

[ScubaSeanMaui]

I recall the divemaster taking a group of guys around the Coronados. Both were very new, and one didn't make it on the dive. The other guy had an awsome time and was very excited with his dives. I don't think they arranged anything special, but perhaps you should give them a call. Although the kelp can be great, I personally would go to Los Coronados since the visibility can be up to 80 feet at times. The kelp can also be a great dive, but you're almost guarenteed to get at least 20 feet at the 'nados.

Sean

 

[mdsd]

I've dived with DCI numerous times over the last year. Excellent operator. Boat capt. found good spots to dive in Pt. Loma kelp beds each time I was on board.

Good point above about Coronados Is. Viz is better and there are larger critters like seals and sea lions. DCI goes there too.

What the heck. Do 'em both.

re: buddies on boat ... flip a coin ... you'd be better off posting a call for participation on scubaboard