By John Lidington Contributing Writer
At the time of this writing, this spring’s coronavirus shutdown is just beginning to release its hold on the South Florida dive scene. By the time you are reading this, hopefully, our sport will be back close to normal—although social distancing and a few other precautions will most likely be with us for a while.
But, as you get back into the swing of things, take a step back. This is the perfect time to assess where you are in the world of diving and where you would like to go. Are there new skills you would like to learn? New activities you would like to pursue? Do you need a refresher dive to help you shake off the cobwebs after a month or more out of water? Check out the myriad opportunities for enhancing your SCUBA abilities under the “Training” tab at www.puravidadivers.com.
Pura Vida offers a coherent set of PADI-approved courses that address just about any topic related to Palm Beach diving. PADI pioneered the concept of breaking diving education into a tiered series of courses building skills and knowledge as students move from course to course. Now, with over half a century of experience under their belts, PADI has a diverse set of offerings that can be customized to whatever level of knowledge and type of activity you hope to perfect.
Some students may pursue the bragging rights of earning a Master SCUBA Diver rating. Some may seek the professional opportunities of becoming a SCUBA Instructor. But even if “going pro” is not your ultimate goal, you will likely find some courses of direct benefit to the diving you do or want to do.
Is most of your offshore diving done on dive charter boats? Essentially, all Palm-Beach-County-based boats assume you’re diving Nitrox. If you do not have your Enriched Air certification, you’re losing bottom time. Drift diving is the norm here, and many of those dives are in the 70- to 90-foot range. It is amazing how the tips and techniques learned in a Drift Diver, Deep Diver, or Wreck Diver course can make for a smoother, more enjoyable dive.
Do you dive from your own boat, or from other private boats? Pura Vida offers a Boat Diver specialty that teaches useful local skills such as setting up your boat for drift diving and safe methods of entry and exit. Training as a PADI Rescue Diver or Emergency First Responder is always useful and can be a true lifesaver when professional back-up is not readily available.
Naturally, courses developing and perfecting general skills—such as Underwater Navigation or Peak Performance Buoyancy—never go out of style. The AWARE Fish ID and AWARE Coral Conservation, as well as Underwater Naturalist, will definitely strengthen your appreciation of the underwater world.
Take a couple of minutes to explore the offerings at www.puravidadivers.com. There are a lot more recreational dive courses there—and we haven’t even touched on tec diving. It’s time to get back in the water! Do it with a purpose.
John Lidington, Pura Vida Divers
561-840-8750 • www.PuraVidaDivers.com