6-10 AND 6-11-00
West Palm
Saturday was rather windy. The seas were big and tight. We were on the vessel “Spellbound”, a 45’ cattle boat. The students were excited, and the rough seas didn’t dampen the spirit. When we hit the water, I rolled and looked down. In plain sight was the reef 60’ below. What a relief to see such good vis as I am used to 15’ or less out of Daytona. The students were fantastic. Everybody kept off the reef and maintained proper buoyancy. There were beautiful patches of reef and rock with sea fans and coral. Fish were plentiful, but painfully lacking was any large tasty snapper or grouper. Upon return to the dock it became apparent why. A party boat docked next to us with a catch that would embarrass a Seahunter. Who in their right mind would keep a grunt?
Sunday looked to be just as bad as Saturday when I walked to the store for coffee at 7:30 AM. The palm trees were bending, urban tumbleweeds, and thunderheads above. We made the decision to go, and as we left the inlet it seemed certain that somebody was going to do the multi-colored yawn. The Captain put us in the water in a hurry, which helped avoid any problems, My hats off to you Captain, what a wonderful job. Our divemaster was a distraction for The Moose on Sunday, my concentration lost in those deep blue eyes and flowing blond hair. There I go again. The current was ripping, and it became impossible to stay on the wreck. We drifted past everything so fast that you couldn’t really check anything out. I thought it was a terrible dive and it was due to the speed of the current. After the first dive, we motored south to the breakers reef. I couldn’t help but notice that our divemaster wasn’t wearing a wedding ring. There I go again. One student opted out on the second dive, which is perfectly ok for anyone to do at any time. She missed a fantastic dive. There was still a current, but not as fast.
I really enjoyed myself with the students this weekend. I hope that everybody continues to dive this summer while it is fresh on his or her minds. You guys and gals need to send me reports once in a while. I would love to hear some of your stories. If anyone happens to get Angie’s phone number for me, I’ll be your best friend.
The Moose