Looking for fellow scuba divers

Looking for a buddy or group to go diving with to different
sites around the island starting with Boca Chica this
weekend.

I live in Santo Domingo and got my PADI Open Water
certification a few months back from Northern Coast divers
in Sosua. The friend I got certified with has moved back
to the States so I'm looking to meet up with other people
interested in diving. Any takers?

Thanks,
Steve

Steve,

I can't help you with that, but I would like to impose upon you with a few questions about North Coast Divers in Sosua. How would you rate them for instruction? Do they speak English? Do you remember the cost? Myself and some girlfriends have been wanting to get certified and Sosua is convenient for us. Thanks!

While you're asking I'd also like to ask if you or anyone can recommend a dive shop on Samana Peninsula (Las Galeras). Is the diving there decent??

Thanks

I have nothing but the highest praise for Northern Coast
Diving (although my particular instructor who was outstanding
has left). They are an extremely professional operation--
no skipping over the basics which I think is important.
By far the best facilities in Sosua, in my opinion.
(Note: in no way am I connected to these guys, I'm just
one happy customer, a rare things these days).

They give classes in English, German and possibly a few
other languages.

does anybody knows a divingschool which teach also kids - 8 years old?

chris

Contact Michael at Coral Sea Divers. He must have some connections in Santo Domingo. Or better yet, try Barahona.

I would not recommend teaching an 8 yr. old to dive. There lungs are not fully developed yet. Might be ok with a non-pressured system and not below 30'. I would wait until they are at least 12-13 years old. And still not below 30'.

Capt. Rob

ok thanks to all.
its moreless for him to get a feeling and sure not so deep.

chris

you might want to check out www.padi.com for details about diving courses for children.

minimum 10 yrs. old for lessons leading to certification-maximum depth 40 ft. must be accompanied by PADI certified parent or instructor. 12-15 years must be accompanied by a PADI cert. adult.

however "free" introductory courses offered at resorts are not for PADI certification and minimum age is 8 yrs. diving will only be in hotel pool and will probably only last 5 minutes or so depending on how well they adapt to breathing. what they really want to do is sell the PADI lessons so will spend more time on someone who is a potential student.

7yr old son(8 in april) tried it 3 weeks ago and had a great time.

Have been diving for over 25 years and still would not advise anyone to teach a young child to dive there lungs are not fully developed. And not over 30' one atmosphere. Ask your doctor first. Always a good rule before you child enters any type of sport.