Down Under Dive Shop

Fantastic experience: Beth and her staff and crew are excellent, 4 trips and each was great. Safety and fun are priorities on the boat . The shop is clean and staff is friendly.

Negative experience: Walked in on a Friday at 1:25 PM. My husband and I are both in our early 60s and are certified divers. We were in the shop for 10 minutes and no one acknowledged us. I guess we’re not young enough to be considered scuba divers. Looking for another dive shop.

Fantastic experience: My dive master Jeff Robinson was fantastic! Bucket list! Open diver certification! Woohoo!

Fantastic experience: Down Under is fantastic. Everyone from the captain to DMs to dock workers were friendly and helpful. The boat is set up perfectly for diving and we had two killer dives on the New Venture. Will definitely book again with Down Under!

Fantastic experience: Update Oct 2025. Tried again with deep under dive shop and this time the trip was a go! I had an amazing time doing a two tank dive on New Venture. They even grilled hot dogs for us as a hot lunch. I think this might be my favorite dive boat on the Gulf Coast. We will definitely be back. Original review: Went on a scuba charter with Deep Under this weekend for what was supposed to be a 2-tank dive. Unfortunately the conditions didn't cooperate. At the first stop, the divemaster reported a ripping surface current and very low visibility, bordering on blackout conditions. We were not allowed to enter the water. The crew tried a second location but the result was the same. We were disappointed we didn't get to dive, but I truly respect the crew for prioritizing safety over any negative reason guests might have about not being able to dive. The boat was great, perfectly suited for diving, and even at full capacity it wasn't too crowded. The captain and divemasters were efficient and friendly. We were refunded 50% of the charter price which I think is fair given they used the same amount of gas and still had to pay their crew for the day, even though we didn't dive. I'll definitely be back and hopefully next time the conditions will be better!

Fantastic experience: These guys are the real deal. Professional and a dash of humor. We had two incredible dives on the New Venture. Incredible visibility and lots of marine life. We even had a cookout during our surface interval. We will be back!

Fantastic experience: Another awesome trip with Down Under!!!!!

Fantastic experience: What a great experience!!

Fantastic experience: The Captain and the Dive Masters were professional and entertaining. Great group.

Fantastic experience: Good experience! Staff was able to fit our snorkeling trip in on a rainy day. Great communication. Snorkeling experience was fun and we even got to see some dolphins. Would recommend!

Fantastic experience: I did a beach dive with Beth, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience with her. She was so fun and patient with me. I just certified and very inexperienced. Beth taught me a lot and we had a wonderful dive, she showed me a lot of hidden creatures.Thank you Beth for a very memorable time.

Fantastic experience: A TRUE FANTASTIC EXPERIENCE. Diving is something I've seen on tv since I was a child, and always wanted to do. Kay was our super cool dive instructor that let us all take our own pace. Would 100% recommend to anyone that is an experienced swimmer and has done some snorkeling. 15 out of 10. Thanks again Kay.

Negative experience: I've never wrote a review but I could not let this one go! Four Coast Guard personnel took their families with this dive shop on the worst snorkeling trip imaginable. Extremely disappointed doesn't come close to how bad this trip is! The dive boat went less than 500 yds from where they boat moores up. The boat never came out of first gear. We dived next to a public beach, we literally had several kids walk from the beach to where we were diving. Every single person that was on the boat got hit by jellyfish, the visibility was only about 2 ft. My 9-year-old son whom I have to beg to get out of the water, expressed to me how unhappy he was after 10 minutes of diving and asked to get out. After 15 minutes from when the boat stopped every single person that went on the boat stopped diving and return to the boat. I called to complain about the trip and was told that the dive boat was sub-leased out to the dive shop and they had no control over the dive. We went down in person to file a complaint. Was told the shop would pass the message along to the manager and I would receive a call back. I never did. I'm currently going through the bank to dispute the charges. This dive shop is running a Scam on tourist plain and simple! If the dive shop is advertising multiple locations, when the boat arrives on scene and that location is not up to par, they should take you to a different location. When you charter a dive trip, you expect to be carried to a location that is not easily accessible by land. We could have very easily went to Walmart and bought a cheap set of dive gear and walked from the public beach to the location that they took us. It is very upsetting that an American business would treat American military personnel this way. I would highly recommend you stay away from this business.

Fantastic experience: We recently dove with Down Under Dive Shop in Gulf Shores and had a fantastic experience overall. While we ran into a few hiccups with booking and tank rentals, the staff handled everything quickly and professionally. Their responsiveness and commitment to making things right really stood out. The dive crew was one of the best we’ve ever been with—friendly, knowledgeable, and extremely safety-focused. From pre-dive briefings to post-dive support, they made sure we felt confident and cared for throughout the trip. If you're planning to dive in Gulf Shores, definitely check out Down Under Dive Shop. Even with a few initial snags, they delivered a smooth and memorable experience thanks to their exceptional team. Thank you!

Negative experience: Do not waste your money! First they take you right off the beach.. you can swim there on your own as many others were doing during our “paid trip”. All we saw were jellyfish and baby bait fish. Second website advertises one price. You pay another one. When I asked for a refund was told the cheaper price and when I proved I paid the higher price was told the website (and person answering emails??) had the old price and they refused to refund the difference.

Fantastic experience: Beth was an exceptional Dive Master. Very detailed, patient, thorough, and had an excellent process for a guy who hadn't dived in over a couple of years. Check lists reviewed with safety being paramount importance, but fun being second. Thanks for a great outing even though we were under threat of jelly fish and an algae ceiling of around 15-20'. The barge dive and the goliath grouper under that was awesome! Thanks crew and team for great morning outing!

Fantastic experience: I can't say enough good things about these folks. They are very good and I appreciate them. Give them a try.

Fantastic experience: My son and I went on a near shore dive to The Allen Liberty Ship and Atlantis on June 11 with DUDS. While the surface currents were ripping and the viz was not the best the crew and dive masters put us at ease with very clear and direct instruction. Lila and Bethany were assigned to us and they were wonderful to dive with, Lila even found a sea turtle on the outskirts of the Atlantis and guided my son and I to him. This was my sons first time diving in the ocean and as a father I was very anxious taking him to 95’ but Lila and Bethany are rockstars and having them near by made all the difference to me and I was able to relax and enjoy a great dive. We will definitely book DUDS again. Thank you Bethany and Lila!!

Fantastic experience: The guys on the Down Under go out of their way to help anyone and everyone, they are great divemaster's with tons of experience. We dove on the New Venture recently and it was a great day, the weather was perfect, the Gulf was nearly flat and the boat was placed right on top of the pilot house. Diving in the Pensacola, FL area? I recommend Down Under! The boat is just a short drive away in Orange Beach and they go to all the same dive sites as the Pensacola boats.

Fantastic experience: We’ve visited this shop on multiple trips to Orange Beach. Scuba gear rentals, dive boat trips and kayak rentals; always great. The entire staff has always been pleasant, helpful & accommodating. My daughter & I did a fun boat dive w/Down Under to 3-mile barge today.

Fantastic experience: I dove with Down Under two years in a row now and always have a great time. They have several great dive locations a short boat ride from the marina. Most of the sites have tons of wildlife, including huge schools of fish. I have been very impressed with their focus on safety and efficiency. It's the best dive boat I've been on, perfectly setup for gulf diving. Captain Tara is strong presence on the boat and clearly in charge. They performed multiple safety checks throughout the dive process. The crew to divers ratio is very good and their dive masters are friendly, experienced, and helpful. If you are in the area, I would highly recommend you give them a try. I very much appreciate their dedication to excellence!

Fantastic experience: The crew were great and so was the dive. I was nervous at first but the crew made me feel welcomed and eased my nerves. I'll definitely be back!

Fantastic experience: Super friendly staff and really chatty to teach you about the local area. Had a great time!

Fantastic experience: Had a great weekend diving with them. Originally we were going to do 1 day but liked it so much we chose to do another day. The captain and crew were very knowledgeable and helpful. Would highly recommend them to everyone from beginner diver to advanced.

Fantastic experience: I did both a beach dive and a boat dive with Down Under Dive Shop. Everything from booking the dives, renting equipment, diving and making a few purchases in the shop was seamless. Great crew. Loved diving with Beth! She was great fun!

Fantastic experience: New Venture dive trip with Down Under Crew was great. Excellent customer service from the shop and dive boat crew too!

Fantastic experience: We had a great time on our kayak tour with Amanda! She and Hunter were very friendly, and kept us entertained! The two hour tour was perfectly timed - just enough to be interesting without wearing out. Loved it!

Fantastic experience: Went out with them for an oriskany trip a friend booked, very enjoyable. Spacious and comfy boat! Would dive with them again for sure!

Fantastic experience: My 13YO daughter and I had a wonderful time, visibility was poor due to weather but Beth made sure our experience was still magical! Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Me and my husband had a wonderful experience kayaking here! Staff was very friendly and we will be back ❤️

Negative experience: It's been months since I've gotten certified and I still haven't received my card, paper or digital.

Fantastic experience: We purchased rentals ahead of time on the website! Older guy behind the counter was very nice and gave recommendations on where to go! Nice atmosphere and e-bikes lasted a long time!! Highly recommended this place to rent equipment!!

Fantastic experience: The crew From the dive shop to the crew on the boat makes up a great team to help you to have a great and safe experience on every dive. I am hoping to make many more dives with the Down Under Dive Shop !!!

Fantastic experience: We went on snorkeling trip and the crew was great. Beth was awesome and even got our teen to participate. We will be back to dive next time.

Fantastic experience: Me and my partner came in and got fitted for goggles and snorkels. The lady that helped us was so personable and professional!!

Fantastic experience: Awesome Boat and crew. Great job guys.

Negative experience: The only reason I’m giving this a one star is because of the one worker we had to deal with. Our previous experience was wonderful but the last one was a train wreck from hell! When I came into the shop looking to get a mask and a snorkel as it was my first time trying to do some snorkeling the older lady working there (Kay) didn’t really help me with anything. She honestly seemed bothered that she even worked there and that people were in the shop. She stated to us that they never close not even for Labor Day where if she was still a federal employee she would have the day off with pay. We tried talking with her about dive trips and which one you can see the most stuff and which one she would recommend and she couldn’t even be bothered to answer that. She tried to get me to buy a mask that was too big for me, then wouldn’t even help me find a mask that properly fit or explain to me how a mask is supposed to be put on as I had never worn one before so I had no clue but thankfully my boyfriend and his brother were there to guide me after many failed attempts and her just walking to the back grabbing a mask without me saying I wanted it when I was struggling. That wasn’t even the worst thing that happened that day… my boyfriend and his brother were trying to go on a dive trip that was the next morning with only two spots left, they were standing there talking with her about going on the trip and she answers the phone in front of them and gives their spots away to whoever had called in. This is a complete 180 from our pervious experience last July when we were in there being helped by Jeremy who did a phenomenal job with my boyfriend when he came in to buy all his scuba gear. We came back in because of the service we had received while Jeremy was working but I can say after this last experience I’m not sure we will ever be back with the way she treated all 3 of us.

Fantastic experience: Great shop and staff. Bryan and Ethan are amazing instructors. We had an absolute blast!

Fantastic experience: We had a great dive trip with Down Under. The shop staff and boat crew were very professional and helpful / the boat was roomy and comfortable and the divemasters very safety conscious. I highly recommend this dive shop

Fantastic experience: Excellent staff on and off shore. Great equipment and energetic crew members. I did the offshore 80’-100’ dive and had a blast.

Negative experience: Had a horrible experience with DUDS last Saturday. Tried to email them twice to get a partial refund based on their own cancellation policy and got no response. So now I'm leaving a 1 star review for their lack of response, the disappointing and irresponsible trip. The Blue Angel dive we went on was a one tank dive and then supposed to be lunch off the Pensacola pier to watch the air show from the water. Upon departure from the pier on the way out to a dive location we're briefed on the dive. Many of the divers on this trip were only open water certified with a 65' depth limit, including two in my party. We were told the dive was a wreck sitting at 100' of depth with the top of the wreck at 80'. Why would a dive shop take open water divers on a dive to 80-100'? Well, it was because they had some Advance open water students who needed their deep dive check dive. Irresponsible IMO. I briefed my open water divers and we set some depths to stop and communicate their comfort and if we were to proceed deeper. As the advance open water diver in my group I took the lead on monitoring them and managing their skills at depth and they knew that if I was uncomfortable with any of their performance I would terminate the dive. Thankfully they did great. But, none of this was briefed by the dive master. The dive master didn't poll how many open water divers there were, nor did the dive master give any specific attention or briefing to these divers. The dive was initiated in some current and me and my buddies descended per our plan and did one orbit around the wreck. At the anchor line we decided to do another orbit since we had enough air. At that time, I noticed the anchor line becoming disconnected (not sure if it wasn't attached securely or if it broke. We weren't told). On his way back down the anchor line the one dive master signaled to the few of us on the fantail to ascend immediately. Dive master had gone to the surface to inform the captain that the line was looking like it was going to give way leaving the divers unattended besides the instructor managing the Advanced students. So we started our surface ascent, at the surface the boat was drifting away and there appeared to be some panic on the boat and yelling. We swam to the boat and boarded. Some tense minutes pass and all divers are recovered, many roll calls were called out to confirm. But the dive was cut short, and most divers had a lot of air left in their tanks. Since it was a one tank dive, we had no other choice but to head to the Pensecola pier to watch the airshow. Upon anchoring up, some thunder in the distance signals some weather moving in. Captain pulls anchor and heads back to the pier without letting us know that she's cancelled the rest of the trip. They try and cook the "lunch" while we sail back "because we paid for it". Their cancellation policy says that a partial refund will be given if a trip is cancelled for weather. This qualifies but they have not yet responded. Won't be back to this shop, if they respond to this review or my emails with a partial refund to compensate for this really disappointing dive I may delete this or change the star rating. At $200 a person this was an expensive 1 tank dive and given the challenges they had, a good, reputable company would try to make it right, not respond with radio silence.

Fantastic experience: The staff here is impeccable. They are always ready to assist you in all of your dive needs. They treat you like family. Wouldn't go anywhere else .The crew of the Dive Boat Downunder are amazing. They are helpful and among the best we have experienced. Looking forward to our next trip with them.

Fantastic experience: The best place ever.. I took scuba training.. very thorough.. safe. And yet made it so fun to learn.. ALL of the staff is amazing.. Definitely RECOMMEND!!

Fantastic experience: WE have been on dive boats around the world! The Down Under Dive Boat and crew are at the top of the game. Their efficiency, training and attention to detail are some of the best we have experienced in our 20+ years of diving. We are local here and have the great fortune of being able to utilize this awesome boat and crew frequently. If you are vacationing in the area, don't hesitate to book a trip with these folks today!

Fantastic experience: We rented the e-bikes and road in the park. Staff super duper nice!! Had a great time!! We loved how nice and fun the staff were as well. Lots of fun and great prices!!

Fantastic experience: Been on the Down Under Charter boat a few times. Captain Bert, DM Shannon, and other crew members were always very professional and accommodating, couldn't really ask for a better crew. Boat is very spacious, clean and seems well maintained. Booking online was pretty straight forward and easy. Would definitely recommend down under charter.

Fantastic experience: Went on a guided snorkel tour today, and even though the water wasn't as clear as one would hope for ot was an amazing experience. Beth pointed out things that I would have never noticed. Electric stingrays, jellyfish, and several types of fish were seen. Needless to say I can't wait to be scuba certified. Thanks to Beth and everybody else that I encountered at the shop, you were great.

Fantastic experience: My husband had a great time diving with Beth. She was very knowledgeable and made the trip very fun. We also rented kayaks there and were well taken care of in that department as well. It was very convenient, as you could put into the water right on site.

Fantastic experience: Fermé le lundi et le mardi, y a l'air d'avoir du matériel! Ont ils des compresseurs ? Mystère ?

Fantastic experience: This shop is very well organized inside and clean. They have a few wetsuits and other equipment on-site for sale. You are able to order other equipment if they do not have it there. Their rental prices are very reasonable. They do offer an assortment of classes. I got to meet the owner and one of the dive instructors. They were so helpful, very welcoming and knowledgeable. I was able to do the Gulf State Pier Clean Up Dive with them. They did an excellent job with everything. I am so grateful for their hospitality. I would love to do business with them in the future.

Fantastic experience: We recently had a chance to go diving with Down Under Scuba and came away genuinely impressed with their commitment to safety and professionalism. The captain was on point with his safety briefings and approach to diving. The DMs were competent without being arrogant. We also appreciated some of the little extras, like the DMs laying out route lines in the maze of bridge spans.

Fantastic experience: Great service knowledgeable people

Fantastic experience: My daughter and I did a beginner beach dive and had a blast. We were able to rent all the equipment and our guide Andrew was great and took care of us. Thanks again.

Fantastic experience: The owners and staff are amazing! Very friendly and accommodating. Me and my fiancé did a 2 tank dive with them, they did everything for us, switching our tanks over for the 2nd dive to cleaning our equipment at the end of the dives. They even accommodated any equipment issues we had. We will absolutely dive with them again!

Negative experience: Good luck scheduling a dive charter or getting anyone to call you back. I called Sept 29th, Oct 4th, Oct 11th, Oct 18th. I talked to somebody once named Ethan at the dive shop and he said he would have someone call me back. That was back in Sept. I've tried calling the owner, the boat Captain and the dive shop.

Fantastic experience: Friendly staff. They gave very helpful guidance on where to dive and had good rates on rented equipment.

Fantastic experience: Very friendly staff

Fantastic experience: Excellent experience. Parking and location to the dock was with-in eye view of the boat.Boat was clean and in good order. All dive equipment was up to date and also in excellent condition. Crew was very friendly and highly knowledgeable. Dive was excellent and time spent on The vessel was outstanding. Would definitely recommend there service.

Fantastic experience: We went to 3 Mile Poseidon and the captain and crew were great! The dive site was lackluster though, hardly anything to see there as the very small "statues" are in the sand with nothing else around. Unfortunately the place was swarming with jellyfish at the time of our dive too which almost requires you to wear a wet suit for the protection alone. Not the shop or crews fault though, but try a different dive instead!

Fantastic experience: Absolutely amazing crew! Loved diving with them today!

Fantastic experience: Booked scuba lessons for my daughter. Paid an additional fee to get her trained and certified in a short period. Hugh was her instructor and was stellar. She was excited after each lesson or check dive telling me the details. We booked s family dive on The Down Under dive charter a couple of days later. She did so well. Never got over anxious, i watched her to see how she controlled her buoyancy. Wow, Hugh you did a great job. Bryan worked with us on scheduling, getting her gear, and getting them paid! Everyone we interacted with were friendly and customer service minded. Can't brag enough. The Down Under dive and crew were so good, had to go again the next day. Thanks to all.

Fantastic experience: Excellent Five Star PADI Dive Shop! Personable and detailed instructors, staff, and owner!! Highly recommended for your underwater exploring!!

Fantastic experience: Awesome shop and friendly crew stopped in to check out gear while I was in for a wedding answered any questions we had will definitely be back I think my local shop in Columbus need lessons from them

Fantastic experience: Great dive outfit. Professional and courteous. Dive was as expected. Was a little cold and far out, but that was not their fault. It was also the first of the season for us. Will definitely dive with them again

Fantastic experience: This place is awesome. Bryan is an outstanding owner. Would highly recommend stopping in.

Fantastic experience: Went to Down Under Thanksgiving week to rent some snorkel gear. Service and knowledge by Doc was outstanding. Gear availability and prices were great!

Fantastic experience: Amazing experience. My fiancé and I love coming here with my fiancé. We have so much fun exploring and trying to tip each other over.

Fantastic experience: Awesome place with great people that are ready to help! Love renting kayaks from them!!

Fantastic experience: Great service and experience dive team!

Positive experience: As a new dive shop owner I am always looking for what other shops are doing right and taking note of what other shops are doing that we want to avoid. When I first walked into the dive shop I was a little turned off by their laid back attitude, I felt like I had to pull answers out of the shop staff and they didn't really take interest in the fact I was in the shop. That said, after diving with Down Under and their amazing DM Bryan Ensalva I had a complete 180. He was very good, very complimentary to the new divers that I brought with me and meeting back up with him at the shop, he was the energy that it had been lacking. He made the shop. If I had one recommendation for Down Under, catch the energy that Bryan brings to the table.

Fantastic experience: Had a great day of diving yesterday!! Kudos to captain Bert, Shane, Shannon and the rest of the crew. Very professional and super friendly!! Downunder Dive shop is the way to go on the gulf!!

Fantastic experience: Been on two dives and in store several times for fills, browse and local advice. Exceptionally helpful on the boat and in-store. Did excellent job patiently and proactively helping me overcome in-water difficulties in order to make a dive I was about to scratch for my son and I. Very helpful shore spearfishing advice. Stock the always welcomed, banked 32! Thanks Down Under Team!

Fantastic experience: Awesome dive with Down Under Dive Shop. My husband, son, and I dove with them 9/07/2019, it was a self guided dive to the New Venture. The crew - Captain Bert, dive master Shannon, and boat hand Derek were exceptional. Bert gave us a run down of the boat (safety protocols..etc), Shannon prepared us for our dive - descending and ascending along the lead rope that she would secure to ship for us, as well as advising us about currents and what to do if we get caught in one. She was a wealth of information and tips. She and Derek assisted us in and out of the water, changed our bottles between dives, and even rinsed our gear when we were done. Everyone was very professional but personable. Couldn't have asked for a better dive, only draw back is you need several dives to see all of this HUGE ship. Emerald green waters, 50ft visibility, lots of fish, and sea life. We'll be back to dive with them again!! Thanks for the awesome experience!

Fantastic experience: Grabbed a Thursday dive while I was in the area. Ship captain was very clear, the dive masters and crew were knowledgeable and intent on ensuring you were safe and had a good time. I'll be back. Wish I had taken time to pick up a shirt or sticker. Can't seem to find them online.

Fantastic experience: Great shop, Great service, Really Great Boat Crew, and Great diving. Couldn’t have asked for more during my trip! Will use again when visiting the area!

Fantastic experience: The very attentive and thoughtful staff made our kayaking experience awesome.

Positive experience: People were great, knowledgeable, crew was sharp. Snorkeling was pretty murky, cloudy . Didnt see much for the 2 hours we were out.

Fantastic experience: Dave and his staff were absolutely amazing to us new snorkelers. He and his staff were kind, understanding, and knowledgeable about everything in the shop and where to go for the best wildlife views. We went in spring 2018 and are looking forward to the next time we can visit! We highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: My first experience with lessons. Wow they made it easy and quite a learning experience for a Mark Spitz rookie! Looking forward to getting approved for my first dive. Thanks.

Fantastic experience: Had a really great time with Down Under. My dive buddy and I drove all the way from New Orleans to try them out, and were not disappointed. The crew were very professional, and accommodating. The whole experience is luxury compared to most dive charters. When you arrive at the dock, parking is 50 ft. or less away. The boat is loaded up with all of the tanks, nitrox labeled and analyzer nearby if needed to double check. Once the boat is under way, there is ample seating area on the bottom level, and some up top. This keeps the boat from feeling claustrophobic on fully booked dive days. Water and pineapple were provided on the trip, along with the full line of first aid materials. Once you complete your first dive and you are back on the boat, they will even switch your gear from one tank to the next for you if you would like. I was the least tired i ever was after a dive trip, that speaks to how much they do for you on the boat! I (and i believe they will too) recommend booking one of the offshore dive trips. The visibility is best the farther out you go.

Fantastic experience: Nice and knowledgable staff. I learned a lot in both Freediver and Advanced Freediver Courses. Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: Always a good stop at down under. Dropping if equipment for annual servicing.

Fantastic experience: Had a great time diving the Lulu. Very impressed by the dive masters and the dive shop staff were very helpful.

Fantastic experience: WOW !!! Absolutely awesome time on board the Down Under. Could not have asked for a better boat / crew to go out on. Everything from boat, dive masters, and captain were top notch. Down Under was the perfect charter for my wife's first ocean dive. The dive masters went the extra mile to make sure she was comfortable and had a great experience. We will definitely be back !!!

Fantastic experience: Went in looking for a simple snorkeling setup, they listened to what I was looking for and got me exactly what I was looking for. Much better quality mask and snorkel for just a few bucks more than the cheap ones at the beach places down the street.

Fantastic experience: Very friendly and helpful, I will visit again

Fantastic experience: Great dive facility, crew, boat and dive sites. Highly recommend

Negative experience: Very rude will never visit again.

Negative experience: Wife and I were very excited about this trip that we plan for long time. We were suppose to go snorkeling at the end September but they call us told us at last min that it was cancel and i was really disappointed heard about that.

Fantastic experience: Great place

Fantastic experience: The captain and the dive masters were awesome. They answered any questions about the gear, boat, and dive locations. They were easy to approach. Been diving fresh water for along time, this was my first salt water dive and I was a little nervous. They explained all thoroughly. Will definitely use them again.

Fantastic experience: The crew and boat were great. Will dive with again for sure.

Fantastic experience: Very helpful in getting us set up for a kayak trip on the Little Lagoon.

Fantastic experience: Staff was very helpful with everything i needed. Got exactly what i wanted and prices where more than fair.

Negative experience: I would not recommend this dive ship for referral dives or for anyone who wants to take a scuba course but needs a little extra time/consideration. I booked instructor Jim for referral dives for 3 teenagers, my son and two nieces all three are 17 years old and had never been in the ocean. Jim was gruff and mean to these kids. My son is on the autism spectrum, which I told him (Jim the instructor) before the first dive. He needs to be shown what is expected of him because he doesn’t always catch verbal ques, I explained this to Jim and he never indicated that he was not willing/capable of doing this for my son. He is comfortable in the water, started swimming lessons at 18 months with never an issue. He did well on all of the skills testing during the course. The kids did well on the first dive, which was a shore dive. We went back the next day to complete the rest of the certification process, and were talked into letting them do a boat dive in the gulf instead. My son was relaxed and happy prior to the dive. When the boat got anchored in open water, Jim was the first in the water, followed by my son. There were about 10 additional divers on the boat, but these kids were made to go in the water first so my son did not get the opportunity to “see” how everyone else was doing things. He jumped in and swam to the anchor line to wait for his cousins. Not one of these kids had any air in their BC’s (as an instructor with students jumping into a choppy sea for the first time, wouldn’t you think he would remind them to add air in their life vests to keep them afloat while they waited?) so they were fighting to stay on top of the water while getting beat up by waves. My son lost his regulator twice, at one point I yelled he is drowning, the instructor helped him the first time but the second time he crammed it in my son’s mouth and yelled at him to bite down on it. So here is this boy, in cold water, fighting to breath, with this person who is supposed to help him yelling, all of his senses were on overload and he was stressed but he still went down. I need to add the girls were not fast enough for Jim getting off the boat and into the water so they were also yelled at about that. I watched them descend until I couldn’t see them any longer. Within 5 minutes my son back on top of the water, crying hysterically with blood pouring out of his nose. He said he couldn’t figure out how to use the regulator built into the BC and was running out of air. Jim had asked them when he was gearing them up if they had ever used one and they all said no. They were taught with an octopus, a separate regulator that your buddy can use. Another instance where he was made to go first and did not have the opportunity to watch the girls to see how it worked. One of my nieces said that Jim actually pulled my son's regulator out of his mouth to get him to do the maneuver. If that isn’t enough to convince you to go somewhere else then please keep reading. For the second dive that day, the girls were asking lots of questions (my son did not go back in the water) about the maneuvers that needed to complete to finish the certification process. Again Jim became very agitated, and yelled at them that they shouldn’t even be on that boat if they didn’t know the answer. He had an instructor in training on the boat helping that tried to explain to the girls, he was told he needs to shut up and to not help them at all. I would rather they ask the questions and be comfortable with the expectations above water than not know at 40 feet and suffer the same panic and fear of drowning that my child felt.

Fantastic experience: Great Shop, awesome dive boat and experienced crew. Best on the coast.

Positive experience: I like the shop, the guys are knowledgeable, friendly, wish they were a little bit more punctual on times they opened. Waiting to get some gear before we go out -20 minutes past 10 AM

Fantastic experience: Great Dive and Crew , the ship already has life on it even tho it was sank May 26, 2013 , it is in approximately 115 feet of water, 23 miles offshore .it is a steel-hulled cargo ship that is 217 feet long, Beam: 39 feet,Profile: 57 feet, four top decks definitely one I will do again so get off the path it is Adventure Bums Approved Visited July 2013