Diving and snorkeling

Piia · Post by **Piia** » Fri Aug 29, 2003 5:32 am

Hi!

I have never done any diving and was thinking of having a PADI open water course in Tobago. But I have read a lot that Tobago isn't really the place for beginners, becauce of the strong currents.

Is this true or is there still a chance that I could learn to dive in during our holiday? How much does these PADI courses cost there? Are there any sites for snorkeling ,where I could see manta rays or is it only possible to divers to see mantas?

Post by **Steve Wooler** » Fri Aug 29, 2003 8:31 am

Hi Piia

There are lots and lots of divers that learn to dive in Tobago. Yes, some of the advanced diving in Speyside and other areas is definitely not for beginners, but the dive schools simply wouldn’t take you to those places anyway.

I can’t tell you about costs – you best bet is to have a look at some of the diver operator’s websites and contact them if necessary.

You will regularly see manta rays when snorkelling in some areas. I remember seeing several when snorkelling in Castara Bay while on a trip with Kalina Cats last year.

Bren Tierney · Post by **Bren Tierney** » Thu Sep 18, 2003 12:06 pm

Hi Piia,

I am, for my sins, what's referred to as a self-avowed 'dive slut', i.e. I go around the world diving so I can see for myself precisely what these places have to offer (dive sites - good and bad -, facilities for divers, accommodation, other 'above the surface' attractions etc.) and I can whole-heartedly recommend Tobago for learner or any other divers!

If you want a dive centre with its act very much together, then I can recommend World of Watersports (see link below), based at the Tobago Hilton - you don't have to stay at the Hilton to use them either, AND they will come and collect you from which ever hotel you're staying at in the area on their free shuttle-bus and take you to the dive boat.

http://www.worldofwatersports.com/

They also have an on-site pool so that your initial lessons can be conducted in a safe environment before you go and do some relatively shallow/safe diving off the beach so you can get used to divng in the ocean.

Tobago has some truly awesome diving, from its one good wreck (the 'MV Maverick') to the plethora of reefs, fish, coral and other sealife, octopi etc. All of it massively colourful and all a privilege to see.

Hope this helps. Please let me know if you'd like to know more and I'll be happy to help.

Cheers,

Bren.

Deborah Marzohl · Post by **Deborah Marzohl** » Mon Nov 17, 2003 3:08 pm

We have been diving many times in Tobago and can highy recommend Eco Adventure Diving - based at Stonehaven Bay. The folks there are so friendly and they go out of their way to make your dives unforgetable. we have dived in many places around the world but have found Andrew and his team to be top of our list - from every aspect.

Katie · Post by **Katie** » Mon Mar 29, 2004 7:01 pm

i would reccomend taking a first dive with the dive centre at the hilton hotel. it is a brilliant experience for first time divers

Katie · Post by **Katie** » Mon Mar 29, 2004 7:03 pm

i forgot to say that the hilton is where i took my first dive, the staff are very friendly and care for every divers needs. i succsefully was awarded my padi!