Why the SS Benwood is my favorite wreck...

[CajunDiva]

CajunDiva, I've been doing a lot of diving with Rainbow Reef. They are so helpful, courteous and fun to be around. One of the most professionally run ops I have ever been associated with. Can't wait to see their new digs... they move in tomorrow from what I understand.

I saw a quick video clip on Facebook that Rainbow Reef operations manager Billy Wise posted. Things are looking great at Rainbow Reef His post said their opening date was August 12th. I can't wait to see what the new place looks like - may just have to come on down for a visit :banana:

 

[Cajuncru Diver]

So why is it my favorite dive?

Might have something to do with the bait ball that was on the bow last year. Burned up an 80 just hanging there motionless and letting a giant school of silversides surround me and move in and out.:biggrin::biggrin:

 

[AdivingBel]

Might have something to do with the bait ball that was on the bow last year. Burned up an 80 just hanging there motionless and letting a giant school of silversides surround me and move in and out.:biggrin::biggrin:

Pardon the image. It doesn't do it justice (image capture from a compressed vid), but here's a shot. The real thing was fun to watch.

 

[Cajuncru Diver]

Pardon the image. It doesn't do it justice (image capture from a compressed vid), but here's a shot. The real thing was fun to watch.

View attachment 214455

Nice shot AdivingBel! Here's a video clip we shot of the same subject:



As always, best viewed full screen...

 

[Humpinit]

My son and I were supposed to dive the Benwood on our open water cert but never got to. Looks and sounds like we might need to come down soon. Does rainbow reef have guided dives?

 

[The Chairman]

Humpinit, they do and most of them are instructors or instructor candidates. All of them have been more than capable, at least in my estimation. Jim and I were the only ones on the boat not diving with a guide.

 

[Cajuncru Diver]

Does rainbow reef have guided dives?

Yes, they do. They have a dive guide at no extra cost. Check out all the particulars at their web site;
Scuba Diving Florida Keys | Rainbow Reef Dive Center | Key Largo, FL

 

[The Chairman]

Bait balls are always fantastic and they can be found in different places here in Key Largo. Here's a video I shot on the Speigel Grove this past month:

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[CajunDiva]

I agree with NetDoc. All of the guides are completely capable. Not only that, they are tons of fun. We have been on hundreds of dives in Key Largo with Rainbow Reef. We really have no need for a dive guide. But the fact is...we have so much more fun when we dive with the guides that we don't want to miss out!

 

[Humpinit]

I should probably dive with my instructor. I think I get a discount through him anyways.