PNG here we come!  9/18/06
Bob Fenner,
<Keith>
Keith Rowley here.  check out the link below.  have you seen this yet?  when are we going?
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20060918/sc_afp/indonesiawildlifeenvironmentpapua_060918092916;_ylt=Av Wta7TI4by06ET42k6xxSUTO7gF;_ylu=X3oDMTA5bGVna3NhBHNlYwNzc3JlbA--
I put a link to WWM on my blog:  http://zenmarine.blogspot.com/
  check it out.
Keith
<Did see this... just today. Right there along the Wallace Line... Ahhh! Bob Fenner>

Here today, gone tomorrow or so... not to Maui, but just some 25 miles to the south  9/18/06
Hi Bob,
Just wanted to know if the invite to Hawaii still stands?
<Oh yes... always>
  We would love to come out for a visit.  If so, we need to know dates and we'd like to book airfare soon as prices seem pretty good right now.  Hope this finds you well.  We just returned from an awesome weekend!  Sanjay arranged a trip to Atlantis Marine World.
<Very nice place>
We went seining, had a behind the scenes tour and went snorkeling with the rays.  It was fantastic.   
Hope to hear from you soon,
Michelle and Kent
<Am out the next trip the sixth of November... till Dec. 6 I think... can/will extend... and there are some very reasonable fares currently. Hope to see you soon/there. BobF>

Re: Bodianus bimaculatus/Twinspot wrasse has a higher mortality rate when not sold in mated pairs? Getting out diving this time   9/15/06
Bob. Thank you for the insight.
<Glad to share>
This hobby is fascinating. Thank God for multiple sources of information. I only wish I had more time logged under the waves to observe the behaviors first hand.
<Mmm... up to you...>
I hope Jamaica was/is amazing. I imagine you know the good spots to go to see our underwater friends. Clue me in please.
James
<Better than this, please do come out with us... trips coming up to HI in Nov. and Dec... and cheap fares currently... and the WWM Crew is hauling out (well, some of us) to Bonaire in late Feb... BobF>

Let's go diving  - 09/14/06
where are you now?
<Just back from Jamaica...>
starting to plan for next year dive trips, hopeful one with you
<Oh yes! Hey Dan... are you going to MACNA? There's a trip out to the Flower Gardens just after that there's room on... Am going. And we're off for most
all Oct., including time in Bali and (finally!) Wakatobi, though that's an expensive go... And will be spending most of Nov. in HI if you can make it,
would like to haul out, dive... And the WWM folks plus are planning on a week or so in Bonaire in Feb. thus far... Where, when do you want to go eh?
BobF>
take care
Dan

Was: Re: coral propagation book Anthony, now, let's go on a dive vacation!  - 07/03/04
Well deserved, in fact, I have your book, "The Conscientious Marine Aquarist" on my coffee table and refer to it frequently.  On another
note, I recently spent a short vacation at the coast (Morro Bay, CA) with a couple of retired teacher friends.
<A beautiful, spiritual area>
  They have been dive certified and have become avid divers.  I am going to learn as well; old dogs (I'm 48) can learn new tricks;
<... am an even older dog/fish>
however, I am in education, and therefore must be prudent in getting cost effective dive trips.  We want to go somewhere next Easter break.  What would you recommend for a
budget conscientious neophyte diver?  And, where are the best dive places today?
<Someplace close to the west coast of the U.S.? Mmm... many possibilities... Do check with your frequent flyer programs re airfare offers... but Hawai'i (look for package deals with air, a car, hotel... and go with at least one friend to split costs...), Baja, particularly the Cabo, San Jose corridor sometimes has some good deals... If you're a bit adventurous, there are several "inland" possibilities with avid dive clubs going to lakes, quarries... in Arizona, Colorado... What defines a "best" dive experience is quite individual... some folks like topography, others large animals, some small, fun to photograph... Other people like to visit wrecks... For myself, being in relatively warm, clear water with something interesting to see is great! BobF>

Re: coral propagation book Anthony/Dive Adventura!  - 07/03/04
I forwarded your message to my 2 old dog/fish friends.  Thank you so
much for the advice.  I'm with you, warm water and lots to see:)  
Hawaii sounds good.  Margie likes Belize.
<Also very worthwhile... "Second largest barrier reef" on the planet... the most educated populace in N. S. or C. America... beautiful country to visit en toto... have been there numerous times>
  I am so excited to learn to
dive and go one new adventures.  Life is good.
<Ah yes... beats the alternative by a very wide margin...>
  Well, I need to go
outside and get my propagation tank cleaned out.  I eagerly await my
book.
Vicki
<Know you will enjoy, benefit from these experiences. Bob Fenner, living vicariously as usual>

Website correction  12/14/05
Bob,
What a great site!!!
You and the assembled staff have put together more info than I could believe.  Very cool
I found a small error in the Marine Book Review, Sources area.  Learn to dive
With regard to the Diving Certification agencies…
This is from the site
IDEA NASDS
International Diving National Association
Educators Association of Scuba Diving Schools
P.O. Box 8427 8099 Indiana Avenue
Jacksonville, FL 32239-8427 Riverside, CA 92504
904-744-5554 909-687-8792
NAUI PADI International
National Association Professional Association
of Underwater Instructors of Dive Instructors
P.O. Box 14650 1251 E. Dyer Rd., Suite 100 Santa Ana, CA 92705-5605
Montclair, CA 91763 714-540-7234
909-621-5801
PDIC International SSI
Professional Diving Scuba Schools International
Instructors Corporation 2619 Canton Ct.
1015 River St. Fort Collins, CO 80525
Scranton, PA 18505 303-482-0883
717-342-9434
They are all mixed up Bob,
PADI Stands for Professional Association of Diving Instructors, Their
address is:
PADI Americas
30151 Tomas Street
Rancho Santa Margarita CA 92688-2125
949-858-7234
www.padi.com <http://www.padi.com/>
NAUI Stands for National Association of Underwater Instructors, their
address is
Regional Office
1031 Guernsey St..
Orlando, FL 32804
(407) 245-7810 Voice
(407) 210-9462 Fax
www.naui.org <http://www.naui.org/>
SSI Stands for Scuba Schools International, Their address is
2619 Canton Court
Fort Collins CO 80525-4498
970-4820-0883
www.ssiusa.com <http://www.ssiusa.com/>
NASDS is currently handled thru SSI
PDIC stands for Professional Diving Instructors Corp, Their address is;
PDIC International
PO Box 3633
Scranton, PA 18505
570-342-1480
info@pdic-intl.com <mailto:info@pdic-intl.com>
Keep up the excellent work!!!
Carole Bloomquist
SSI Instructor #11391
Phoenix Scuba & Water Sports Inc.
619 Ridge Rd
Lackawanna NY 142187
dive@phoenixscuba.com
<Thanks much for your input, help here. Will correct. Bob Fenner>

DEMA 2005 6-28-05
You received this email because you are part of the scuba and action watersports industries and may benefit from this communication.
Dear Dive Industry Professional,
I invite you to attend DEMA Show 2005, the world’s only event for dive, adventure travel and action water sports professionals, this October 4-7
at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada. DEMA Show 2005 is the only event that understands your unique business needs and provides you with the resources to achieve your business objectives. Here is just some of what you will find at DEMA Show 2005 that you won’t find anywhere else:
? More than 600 exhibits of the hottest products, services and destinations the industry has to offer – and that your customers want to
see on your shelves.
? Dozens of exhibitor seminars where you get in-depth product demonstrations and training that increase your ability to sell these
products to your customers.
? Hundreds of hours of training-agency sponsored seminars keeping you up-to-date in the latest certification programs and policy initiatives
that are essential to maintaining your expertise and running a state-of-the-industry dive training operation.
? More than 25 DEMA sponsored seminars in a multi-tiered format designed for businesses of all sizes that provide you with the tools necessary to
better manage your business and to discover the latest in industry best-practices.
? The DEMA Retailer Resource Center offers you retail solutions from mold-free carpet to small business legal advice that is essential to any
successful retail operation looking to grow. No other event provides dive industry retailers with more resources to help your business succeed!
? Peer-to-peer connections with more than 10,000 industry colleagues.
? As an added value, if you register before August 1st you will be eligible to take advantage of our Early Registration Package. This package
includes admission to the Official DEMA Adventure Travel Symposium, a $75 value, for only $25 for DEMA members*. This offer more than doubles the value of a single Exhibits Only registration.
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PLUS- DEMA Show is back in Las Vegas. This incredible destination city is sure to provide you and your colleagues with fabulous opportunities to
connect after business hours on the show floor. Visit www.lcvb.org to learn more about our host city.
We look forward to seeing you at another exciting and successful DEMA
Show.
Best Regards,
Tom Ingram
Executive Director
Diving Equipment and Marketing Association
P.S. Hurry! Register Before August 1 and take advantage of the Early
Registration Package

Want to dive, hike the Galapagos? 1/7/05
We have two or one openings for an otherwise sold-out trip to the Galapagos coming up... at a discounted rate on the Aggressor... due to no commissions and being comp.ed two seats for selling all... Can you make it? The dates of the cruise are March 24-31. Need to be in Ecuador 1 day before and after the diving. The cost is $2246.25 for the diving, est. $400 for domestic air, plus international air. Hotel stay in Ecuador vary depending on the type of hotel you choose.
Bob Fenner, please write me here if you're interested.

Re: Speaker information
Bob, what dates are you going to be in Hawaii?
<I WILL go most anytime folks can/want to be there. Was planning on the month (as in the whole thing) of February>
Also, would it be possible to crash at your place to help keep costs down a bit?
<Oh yes, definitely. And I have a spiffy four door, four wheel drive truck... and some notion about where to go! Am proposing we have a bunch of friends over, hike, dive, photograph...>
And one last question for know, what airport is best to fly into, checking prices and dates to fly?
Thanks, Mike
<Keahole... the Kailua/Kona (dryside) airport. Let's go! Bob F, freezing!>

Re: Speaker information
Hi there again Bob.  I will try to work a week in for possible the end of February.
<Ah, good. Do keep me informed.>
I better ask to make sure, but is there places to rent diving equipment there, I'd hate to have to drag it all along for 1 week, easier to rent.
<There are a bunch of very good dive services. The one I mostly use is Big Island Divers... they have a website. I DO drag most of my gear there... have a couple of tanks on sight, and loose lead weights you may borrow>>
I've also CC Rick Wilson in, he was also with us that night at MACNA in the tent drinking away.  I'm trying to convince him to join me in a short
holiday at your place in February and do some diving and sight seeing.
<Great!>
Anyways, I will get back to you in the next few days to let you know for sure.
Thanks, Mike Hughes.  (thecoralreef)
<Real good. BobF>

Lost Scuba Certification
I am traveling to Italy in September.  I am an experienced, pre-certified diver since the 1960's , however, I misplaced my C-card and can't seem to get it replaced by NAUI.
<Quite a coincidence, I also lost (was stolen along with my wallet...) a cert. card from the National Association of Underwater Instructors (a scuba certification organization that was very much succeeded by the likes of PADI and others)... and had no luck getting same re-issued... PADI nowadays has such a service online!>
  They haven't been able to locate it.    Do I need the card to rent equipment in Italy?    Thanks,   Dennis
<Very likely you will need a "C" card to rent gear... You might try (I did this with no luck), locating your previous instructor... if they can be found, assert in writing that you passed years back, NAUI ought to come forward with a replacement card... otherwise (also what I did) you might be better (faster, more hassle free) just getting recertified... look around, there are some agencies that will grant you a renewal with some short exhibition of proficiency... and a hundred or two dollars. Bob Fenner>

Travel BCD
Can you help me with the name and manufacturer of a very  very light weight BCD for travel, Please.        Henry
<I like the Sea Quest line all the way around here... there are lighter products, but none with the combination of reasonable weight, size and features I like. Bob Fenner>

URCHIN GUY ETC.
Dear Bob,
<Hey Marty... I've got a cowry for you from the Red Sea...>
     I passed the urchin guy on to John Phillips - sounds like a lot of work - for?  However, one never knows!
<Indeed. May be a real gem... or...>
     I talked to Simon last week re a Solomon visit - he says things are actually going along quite well over there as of recent.  We've got October 8th to the 24th as the time slot, depends on flights, schedules, etc.  This doesn't mean we'll plan to be there that long, just that it will be one week or the other.  We'll figure things out in more detail towards the end of July.
Regards,     Marty
<Di and I are real keen to go. Will cc her. Bob F>
Marty Beals
Tideline
tideline@worldnet.att.net

Re: Oktoberfest at Reef Club 10/2 - 9, 2004!
Dear Bob, do you have a link for this deal? Thanks CR
<http://www.reefclubcozumel.com/... who's interested in going? Bob F>

Re: wet pets from Sri Lanka
Bob,
<Shan>
yeah we were these, wish we met before....yes just let me know when you are coming to Sri Lanka and we will arrange the MOST exciting Diving experience you have ever had ":)
Best regards,
Shan
<Outstanding! Thank you for your encouraging, exciting words! We are/were planning a trip to the Maldives (instead of the usual Egypt/Red Sea) after two May's hence Interzoo show... Perhaps we can re-direct the itinerary to visit abouts in Sri Lanka! Bob Fenner>

Re: wet pets from Sri Lanka
yes you must come to Sri Lanka...
have you ever been here to "Pigeon Island" in Trinco and "Pasikuda" ?
<No my friend. Have yet to visit your country>
I think it is one of the worlds best diving places with a vast diversity of marine species and beautiful and clear waters....we have the best diving
teams in the Island and will be more than happy to assist..... surely you must come and visit us sometime..
B Rgds,
Shan
<Thank you Shan. Will save your messages and hope to get on out to visit you soon. Bob Fenner>

Note From Marty
Dear Bob, 
<Hey Marty! I've got some shells to show/share with you from HI> 
How's it going? Assume you'll be over at INTERZOO! 
<Yes> 
Chris will be over there too - he'll have some of our new Decoral (synthetic coral) items - check them out, you'll be impressed! I wish I could make it over - especially your jaunt to the Sinai. I've got to hold down the fort though - not just Tideline - but also shipments of Decoral will be arriving. 
<Will do and wish you were going to. Really like the product name.> 
You also sent mention of a second Sinai trip in July. 
<Oh, actually, that one back out to the Big Island (HI)> 
Our annual COA Convention (specimen shell thing) happens for a week - the first part of July. I've then got Australians staying for a week or so afterwards - there goes July! 
<How about hauling out to Indo or even S. Africa (including Mauritius) in Sept.?> 
Since we're on diving - I'm working on a relatively short trip to the Solomon's this October (a bit over a week or so). I've got to meet with our coral supplier in Honiara and then spend a day or two over in Gela (Florida Group) - island style - Nipa Huts (we stayed in Gela a couple of years ago and had a great time). If we can work this out - it's then back to Honiara and down to Marau Sound (no flights now - so a 3 hour boat ride). There is the most fantastic place (don't know what else to call it) down in Marau called Tavanipupu. It's idyllic/romantic, incredible food/accommodations and not very frequented - three years ago, George and I were the only guests down there during our three day stay! George (my good friend), his wife, and possibly Paul & Deanna along with myself and Angela would be the group - maybe Harry as a tag along. There would be skin diving and we'd want to see about taking some tanks over to Gela & also down to Marau. Any scuba we could get in would be limited though - no compressors - just the fills we could bring along. 
<Mmm, does sound very inviting...> 
Our supplier is Simon Gower, who has been involved with Dave Palmer re invert/fish export - so you could do some investigating while over there too. Just a thought - if interested - let me know and I'll keep you posted. 
<Do please do so. Will pencil in the time to avoid overlaps in planning> 
Thanks for the tip re Jeff Whyman. We know Jeff - he already buys from us. Thanks though! 
Regards, Marty 
<Ahh, real good. See you soon. Bob F back from HI today after being here another month> 

- Diving in Destin, FL -
has anyone ever been diving in Destin, fl? <I'm afraid not... I'm on the south east coast... very different from the Gulf of Mexico. I'm sure there's some diving to be had, but would be careful of shore diving in the pan handle as the rip-currents are pretty severe around those parts. Likewise, due to the proximity to the Mississippi Delta, I'd think water clarity there might be a bit dodgy, as is much of the upper Gulf. Would think you'd need to take a boat well off shore to see anything.> if so, would anyone recommend a dive shop? <Would start in the yellow pages.> does anyone know about emerald coast dive shop? <Not heard of it, sorry.>
thanks,
robin
<Good luck - hope you find a shop and likewise have a good dive. Cheers, J -- >

Diving...
Hey Bob...
Almost forgot to ask you...
As you know, I am now deeply (no pun intended!) into the whole world of diving!
<Yes!>
Next week, I'll be making my first dives with Nitrox. I am curious if you find that Nitrox is a good idea? My instructors seem to think it's THE way to dive...Do you actually use, it yourself? Is it worth getting the certification?
<Good questions... I am NOT a big fan of Nitrox... for the nominal benefits I do not consider it "worth it"... but do know of many other folks who swear by the technology... I would like to skip ahead and plug rebreathers instead... but am content myself to dive with compressed atmosphere>
Yep- I'm fairly obsessed about this new-found hobby (great- ANOTHER obsession!)- even to the point of getting a dry suit to deal with the cold water off Catalina...I intend to get a bunch of dives in before hitting HI later this summer (assuming you'll be there!)...looking forward to diving in a "real" habitat!
<Thank you for reminding me as well Scott... of plans to return to our place on the Big Island for the month of July. I do hope you and Nadine can come out, and that we can dive together>
Other questions on diving HI-
Are you using a spring suit, or a full?
<Either... I would just dive with a long-sleeve rash guard here most months, but the thieves took that as well this last go. I have a new 3 mil short sleeve Spring suit for most days (easy shore-entry and boat dives) and a fuller 3/5 mil. for rough shore-entries... to avoid the lava!>
How deep do you usually go?
<Generally not more than 125 feet or so... not much to see beyond. I have gone briefly to two hundred plus on compressed atmosphere, almost four hundred on tri-mix...>
DO you generally go out on dive boats, or go off beaches?
<About half and half. Am good friends with some of the fine people who are Big Island Divers here... and the island is blessed with many other fine dive services... but/and there are many shore entry sites that are very fine on most days... and I have two single eighties with hundred fills here>
I'm trying to work on the skills I'll need to be a good all-around diver, but I want to really concentrate on those that I will use in places like HI...
<Ahhh! Am looking more the forward to sharing with you here>
Any feedback would be appreciated!
Scotter
<Perhaps you'd be interested in coauthoring a dive/photo guide to HI with me? Have been cogitating re for some time now. You no doubt have seen Randall, Hoover, Allison Kay, Jerry Crow... et al.s diving and natural history tomes re the islands... tis time for a newer, updated diver-oriented work in my estimation. Let us indeed chat this over... for your upcoming further delving, development into underwater photography/videography. Bob F>

Reef Appreciation 3/27/04
Just got back from Puerto Rico and my first time snorkeling!  Great to see reefs in real life!! Cant wait to take diving lessons! Thanks for all the help with my tanks!
<truly so... in shared admiration of the sea :) Anthony>

Dive friends looking for info. on the South Pacific
hi bob.....
my name is Fabio, from Italy.....
<Yes Fabio, good to hear from you>
i meet you with my wife last year at Kungungan resort.  i have a diving with you.... you are a fish, i am a turtle....:)
i have a question .... : the next august i would like spend some day in pacific area for scuba diving and summer holiday.... : do you have information about Uepi island resort in Solomon island and Vanuatu area?
can you help me?
<Have been to these areas but not with these services unfortunately. The Solomon's are still a bit "rough" politically and economically, though liveaboard diving is tops... and Vanuatu is still rather undeveloped, though definitely worth visiting. If you're looking for a bit more comfort I encourage you to look a bit wider to Fiji.>
have a nice day
Fabio
<Hope to see you about, underwater! Ciao, Bob Fenner>

Scuba diving in Thailand
Hi bob,
i am going to Thailand in a couple weeks to visit some friends. They are not divers and I was wondering if you've done any diving in Thailand or could recommend some dive sites, etc?
thanks,
john Kim
<I have dived in many places in Thailand... about what area will you be in? If time, do try to journey up the west coast, through the Similans... though there are many good day and resort and liveaboard services throughout islands in the south... Bob Fenner>

Re: scuba diving in Thailand
we are starting in Bangkok and visiting friends that used to live near us
here in Alaska.  after that, they were going to recommend some fun and sun
type places.  If its going to be hot, which I hear it always is in Thailand,
<Most all coastal areas, yes... there are mountains, highlands that folks retreat to during the hottest weather>
i would prefer to be near the water.  i have contacted them to see exactly
where they are thinking. but i also wanted to do some independent research
in case their choices aren't really dive suitable.
if you were only going
to recommend one dive site or beach or resort area for diving, what would it
be?
<Maybe Phuket... it has enough cultural attractions, population, public aquariums, access to day dive sites north and south... and good internet access (important to me...), and is an interesting place in its own right. Maybe check into the "Expat Hotel"... again, one of my favorites>
thanks, John Kim
ps. i loved conscientious marine aquarist and reef inverts.  they have really
influenced me and reef keeping in a positive way.  i am currently adding
ozone to my system based on your recommendation.  keep up the good work,
you're a real asset to the hobby.
<Thank you for your kind, encouraging words. Bob Fenner>

Upcoming Scuba, May 04 trip to Deutschland, Red Sea From:  
Hi Sabrina. I have very limited experience (one trip, 14 dives) but I'll chime
in on one thing - the near-sightedness.
I have a Tusa mask that was about $40, and the "prescription" lenses where
about $45 each. With this thing - I can see better under water than I ever
could above water with my glasses. Ask Bob. I was spotting all kinds of
amazing micro-stuff on the reef in Cozumel. Fit is definitely everything, but
at a good shop you can try on all the masks that offer interchangeable lenses
until you find the right one. Seems that helpful chap Paul would be great to
have along.
-Zo

Upcoming Scuba, May 04 trip to Deutschland, Red Sea From: "
<<Admittedly, I haven't done much but look at costs, > etc.  I doubt I'll be able to start lessons until > after Christmas, unfortunately.  I have about a > million questions and no one to ask, especially > regarding equipment and such. > <<<Ask away... at the dealers and Paul.M, Jas.C and > myself...>>> Oh gosh, I have so many questions, I'm not even sure where to start.... Gage and I have discussed for quite a while all of the things we're curious about, so a great majority of these questions apply to him as well, and I will CC him on this.  Well, I guess I'll get the naive, dumb little questions out of the way, first.... Uhm....  Are wetsuits even *made* in largish sizes? <<<<Paul M here. Many places to get custom fit wetsuits. No worries here. They're usually isn't even a surcharge anymore. Ask around. I know O Neils surf shop in Santa Cruz still makes 'em however you want 'em.>>>> <Oh yes... many brands nowadays... and often even better, and still reasonable, custom, to-your-measurements ones... you can send in your various called-for measures and folks will make one for you. The dive mag.s have offers from these companies all the time> I'm not exactly skinny, and have been somewhat worried over this....  on that note, assuming big round people like me do dive and wetsuits <<<<Paul M here -more like typed body sizes than you know. Very few look like the buffed and beautiful like in the mag.s!!>>>>> (and other size-dependant equipment) are made to fit us, are such wetsuits available for dive rental in areas (uhm, specifically where we'll be for the red sea trip)? <<<<Paul M here -Not so sure. It bears knowing what size you are and to check ahead of time.>>>> <Very likely Sharm El Sheik, in Egypt's Sinai> Or is this something that I should, without a doubt, have of my own? <For these sorts of warm weather/water areas I wear/use a "rash guard" by itself... some folks use a "skin" (Lycra based) instead... or a "shorty"... all these can be searched on the Net, ordered or tried on at dive and surf shops> <<<<Paul M here -You can always come down my way to San Jose and we'll take you around to the big three in our area. And if you would like we can even do a quick trek to Monterey as well. There are a lot of dive shops around. I wear a 3mil in warm water nuff said.>>>> Ideally, either way, I'd like my own, but I'm not sure how cost-prohibitive that would be. <<<<Paul M -Varies on the spectrum of beginner level to pro. How much use (how much diving you do etc.) Can be as little as 1500 to 8000 for a setup including tanks. That, of course, is all new gear. There is always used!>>>> Which brings me to my next question.  If I purchase a wetsuit, what type/style?  The type with long arms and legs, or the shorts-lookin' type? What thickness? Any particular brand(s) I should consider? <Mmm, actually, best to just try a bunch on... I assure you, all are fine for different bodies... and it's sweaty work putting them on, taking them off... but you have to do this to find out what's what. I do like the "nylon II" varieties, esp. the real stretchy material ones... the ultimate in comfort and ease of donning/doffing> <<<< Paul M -I agree with Bob here but it also depends on where you will do most of your diving.>>>> So, what is the bare necessities of equipment that I absolutely must have? <Mask, fins, snorkel> <<<<Paul M -Agreed>>>> I plan on fins, gloves, mask (I'm nearsighted, is this an issue?), <<<<Paul M - Nope. Not at all>>>> <Actually, you'll like being underwater better than above... take a few test snorkels in a pool with a mask, snorkel, and see how you like your vision. If it's way out, you can have lenses "ground in" to your mask (make sure it's one that fits you well of course first)> <<<<Paul M -Agreed and again not as expensive as you might think>>>> and snorkel; what else must I have?  What are 'extras' that I ought to consider? <Mmm, not really. Better to just rent a BC (buoyancy compensator) and regulator/console rig at the service... if you find yourself going more than let's say four weeks a year... then you can look into having all the gear yourself> <<<<Paul M -I feel it would be a good idea to be sure you know your size and then check the around in the dive area for rental gear in your size. Not all divers are the same so they go with baseline and have a few odd sizes but if that gets booked.......then.......well.......could affect the trip>>>> And what items are specifically unnecessary, that I can plan on renting? <Just those listed>   How much will dive equipment rental cost, say, at the Red Sea? Monterrey Bay? <Will ask Paul and Jas to chime in here. It/they are "not much" compared with buying, servicing your own... and lugging them about> <<<<Paul M -Diving Monterey is a different story. Anywhere from 45 to 75 bones. In some cases more depending on the shop. Often time the place you get certified through will cut you a deal>>>> Are such costs essentially universal, or very location dependant? <<<<Paul M -Vary on location>>>>  Have I driven you nuts yet? <Nope> Exactly what certification(s) do I need? <"Open water"... a "basic" "C" (for certification)> Definitely PADI's open water, yes?  What other(s) should I do? <IMO none... what is important is that you gain experience, comfort in being in and under the water> When one goes diving (let's say locally, like Monterey Bay), how must one plan it? <<<<Paul M -Call your dive buddy, gather equipment, diver down!!>  Must one be in groups? <<<< Paul M -It is preferred to dive in twos>>>> Must one have a "guide" of sorts? <<<<Paul.M -Nope. Doesn't hurt but not necessary>>>> How on earth does that work??  Are there limits to where one can dive? <<<<Paul M -Not really. Check out some of the Lonely Planet dive guides and there a lot of others that will have the popular areas. Ask local dive shops and check local dive clubs.>>>> Sort of a 'keep off the grass' issue?  Or is all this something that I'll learn in the class, and not have to hassle your patience with? <<<<Paul M - You will learn in class I should expect but you heard it here first!>>>> <Paul? You can go with a group, a club, just with a "buddy"> This next bit is more of a personal bit, so please, if you will, refrain from posting this portion in the dailies.... Gage and I have discussed it and are both more than a touch concerned - and please, I know it must sound very naive, etc.; I'm actually quite embarrassed asking....  Uhm, what is the political climate in the area where we'll be for the Red Sea trip? <An important issue, and one that no one should be ashamed to mention. I will not go (myself, let alone bring others) into an area/region that is at all "dangerous"... this part of Egypt has NO problems, never has had them... it is a very large tourist region, with many times more Italians (you may get pinched), Germans (you may have to drink a beer/bier with) and French (you may experience snobbery, make that for sure) and many other ethnic and national groups... there is NO trouble there... IF there is any sign that there might be, we will be going elsewhere (perhaps HI). If you and your husband would like to go to the big island and dive a while, visit there you  are welcome to use our place (up from Kailua)> I've heard/been led to believe that it's, well, shall we say 'inhospitable' to women foreign to the area, and Americans in general.  Is this fear unfounded, as I hope? <It is indeed unfounded. Will ask Di to give her opinion> Or is it quite a real concern, and shall I bring a barrel of rubber cement, and glue myself to somebody in our group, and start working out vigorously (not like that'd hurt me, anyway)? <No one will harm you in Sharm> <<<With not too much luck, very little (some money for gewgaws, drinks)... If WWM can only pay for part of all, you can likely pick either the Interzoo or Red Sea part...>>> Wonderful to hear!  Truly, I'm blown away by this. Wow.  Etcetera. <<So next weekend's the BARE/MARS thing, huh? <Is it next? I think it's the following... as in two Thursdays from now...> I'll definitely be at BARE, dunno about MARS, though that'd be fun (are your talks going to be the same?), and I intend to try to aim for the frag exchange.  Catch ya later,  -Sabrina>> <<<Was going to give the same pitch... or two if you and Gage might make both.>>> Well, looks like we'll both be at BARE, barring any major disasters or such. <And Paul Mansur et ux I think> <<<<Paul M -I will be at BARE to see your presentation and then bring you back to my place for sleepy time. The we have the behind the scenes at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Then I will gather you up on Saturday evening to bring you back to our house for Sunday's book signing in Milpitas on Sunday. Sabrina and Gage, please, let's chat about the diving Monterey while I'm there. Will gladly give you the scoop and work some time when you can come on down!>>>> I'm going to try to be at MARS, and plan to be there regardless of whether or not you give the same pitch (been wanting to go check out their group for some time), so no need to plan differently (though I certainly won't fight hearing two different talks!).  My hope is to overnight in Sac so I can go to the frag swap in Vacaville on Saturday. <<<Perhaps you should be giving one of them? Bob>>> Hah!  Not unless they want to hear about freshwater shrimp or bloaty goldfish!  ;)  -Sabrina <See you soon. Bob>

Upcoming Scuba, May 04 trip to Deutschland, Red Sea From:  
 <<Admittedly, I haven't done much but look at costs, > etc.  I doubt I'll be able to start lessons until > after Christmas, unfortunately.  I have about a > million questions and no one to ask, especially > regarding equipment and such. > <<<Ask away... at the dealers and Paul.M, Jas.C and > myself...>>> Oh gosh, I have so many questions, I'm not even sure where to start....  Gage and I have discussed for quite a while all of the things we're curious about, so a great majority of these questions apply to him as well, and I will CC him on this.  Well, I guess I'll get the naive, dumb little questions out of the way, first.... Uhm....  Are wetsuits even *made* in largish sizes? <Oh yes... many brands nowadays... and often even better, and still reasonable, custom, to-your-measurements ones... you can send in your various called-for measures and folks will make one for you. The dive mag.s have offers from these companies all the time> <<JasonC: I'll just third this... come in all shapes and sizes. Off the rack models are often a close fit - mine is with the exception that it bunches up behind the knees... which in retrospect would have been worth getting the custom fit.>> I'm not exactly skinny, and have been somewhat worried over this....  on that note, assuming big round people like me do dive and wetsuits (and other size-dependant equipment) are made to fit us, are such wetsuits available for dive rental in areas (uhm, specifically where we'll be for the red sea trip)? <Very likely Sharm El Sheik, in Egypt's Sinai> <<JasonC: Again a second for this - as I recall, Sinai Divers [the company we used last time] had a large selection of suits available to their customers. I'm sure it's the same at Camel Dive and so on... I wouldn't be too concerned.>> Or is this something that I should, without a doubt, have of my own? <For these sorts of warm weather/water areas I wear/use a "rash guard" by itself... some folks use a "skin" (Lycra based) instead... or a "shorty"... all these can be searched on the Net, ordered or tried on at dive and surf shops> <<JasonC: I wouldn't make this the first thing you buy... and really, a suit that would work in this area might be too much for Egypt. At this point, I would nail down the shop where you want to get your C-Card and then work with them to find a rental suit that fits. Once you've been in the water, you'll be able to gauge how cold you get - everyone is different in these ways. Bob can get away with just a rash guard because he just doesn't get cold very easily - my friend and WWM cohort Kevin gets cold wearing a full 5mm suit in tropical water, so it's something you'll want to investigate. At the very least, I think a 3mm shorty for Egypt will be adequate - the water temp there last time was about 75F.>> Ideally, either way, I'd like my own, but I'm not sure how cost-prohibitive that would be.  Which brings me to my next question.  If I purchase a wetsuit, what type/style?  The type with long arms and legs, or the shorts-lookin' type?  What thickness? Any particular brand(s) I should consider? <Mmm, actually, best to just try a bunch on... I assure you, all are fine for different bodies... and it's sweaty work putting them on, taking them off... but you have to do this to find out what's what. I do like the "nylon II" varieties, esp. the real stretchy material ones... the ultimate in comfort and ease of donning/doffing> <<JasonC: my recollection was that the suits at Sinai Divers were 5mm. I have a two piece 7mm suit for diving off the coast here and in New England where the water is significantly colder than it will be in the Red Sea.>> So, what is the bare necessities of equipment that I absolutely must have? <Mask, fins, snorkel> <<JasonC: true dat. Great place to start.>> I plan on fins, gloves, mask <<JasonC: gloves are like wet suits, they come in different thicknesses for different conditions. Don't bother with getting gloves for the Red Sea because they won't let you wear them there... encourages/emboldens one to touch things they shouldn't be touching.>> (I'm nearsighted, is this an issue?), <Actually, you'll like being underwater better than above... take a few test snorkels in a pool with a mask, snorkel, and see how you like your vision. If it's way out, you can have lenses "ground in" to your mask (make sure it's one that fits you well of course first)> <<JasonC: Lorenzo chimed in on this, and I was going to relate his story before he did so. Do look around, you have many options.>> and snorkel; what else must I have?  What are 'extras' that I ought to consider? <Mmm, not really. Better to just rent a BC (buoyancy compensator) and regulator/console rig at the service... if you find yourself going more than let's say four weeks a year... then you can look into having all the gear yourself> <<JasonC: well... if you decide you really enjoy diving and want to go more often than the couple of times a year trip, then I suggest the BC be the first thing you buy. Typical to rental situations is that you might get a different BC every day, and that can include one that leaks. Buoyancy is one of the hardest tricks to master as a new diver and throwing in a variable like changing BCs every day could make you miserable. Likewise, while dive shops actual go through their gear all the time, I look at regulators as life support, so I like owning my own. I know who repairs it, I know who dropped it on the ground. Both of these, though will make for more stuff to haul about so there's much to consider.>> And what items are specifically unnecessary, that I can plan on renting? <Just those listed> <<JasonC: You can rent just about everything including cameras and underwater scooters, but as already stated - a mask that fits is a must.>> How much will dive equipment rental cost, say, at the Red Sea? Monterrey Bay? <Will ask Paul and Jas to chime in here. It/they are "not much" compared with buying, servicing your own... and lugging them about> <<JasonC: Varies from place to place but is often 'included' in package deals - and very often with certification classes, the assumption being that you've not ever been diving before and wouldn't know what to buy. Use the class as an opportunity to try different fins and whatnot to your satisfaction.>> Are such costs essentially universal, or very location dependant?  Have I driven you nuts yet? <<JasonC: Costs are not universal and do vary from location to location.>> <Nope> Exactly what certification(s) do I need? <"Open water"... a "basic" "C" (for certification)> Definitely PADI's open water, yes?  What other(s) should I do? <IMO none... what is important is that you gain experience, comfort in being in and under the water> <<JasonC: that's all true.>> When one goes diving (let's say locally, like Monterrey Bay), how must one plan it?  Must one be in groups?  Must one have a "guide" of sorts?  How on earth does that work??  Are there limits to where one can dive?  Sort of a 'keep off the grass' issue?  Or is all this something that I'll learn in the class, and not have to hassle your patience with? <Paul? You can go with a group, a club, just with a "buddy"> <<JasonC: never been to Monterrey, but certainly here in La Jolla and also in Gloucester... it's best, and certainly your dive agency will strongly recommend that you always dive with a buddy. Likewise, if you're diving in an unfamiliar area, it can be helpful to hook up with someone who has been there before and can at the very least give you and idea what to expect. In La Jolla and Gloucester, there'd be no one there to stop you from going into the water alone, but this probably isn't wise until you get really comfortable under water and likewise have some redundant equipment... when things go wrong underwater and you're by yourself, you can end up in a lot of trouble if you don't have much in your bag of tricks, so to speak. Personally, I've been diving with buddies that have melted down on me during the dive, and it's not a fun place to be. I had asked Bob a question like this a while ago and his statement to me was something on the order of this: even when diving with a buddy, you should suit up with the attitude that you are solo diving - you should learn to be completely independent, to rely on yourself - I've seen and I'm sure others have seen people who couldn't function without their diving partner. In a situation like this, the dependant buddy would be screwed if something happened to their partner underwater. It is very important to develop the skills to take care of yourself first. Just keep these things in mind when you learn how to assemble/don/doff your gear, etc... there is no race, take your time and become as familiar as you can with the process. The bottom line is to learn to relax, be comfortable underwater.>> This next bit is more of a personal bit, so please, if you will, refrain from posting this portion in the dailies.... Gage and I have discussed it and are both more than a touch concerned - and please, I know it must sound very naive, etc.; I'm actually quite embarrassed asking....  Uhm, what is the political climate in the area where we'll be for the Red Sea trip? <An important issue, and one that no one should be ashamed to mention. I will not go (myself, let alone bring others) into an area/region that is at all "dangerous"... this part of Egypt has NO problems, never has had them... it is a very large tourist region, with many times more Italians (you may get pinched), Germans (you may have to drink a beer/bier with) and French (you may experience snobbery, make that for sure) and many other ethnic and national groups... there is NO trouble there... IF there is any sign that there might be, we will be going elsewhere (perhaps HI). If you and your husband would like to go to the big island and dive a while, visit there you are welcome to use our place (up from Kailua)> <<JasonC: common misperception about Egypt for certain, and I've invited a number of people on this trip who've tossed it out as being unsafe. People take risks every day - driving on the freeway is probably the largest one, and going to Egypt is certainly safer than being in your car in the middle of traffic.>> I've heard/been led to believe that it's, well, shall we say 'inhospitable' to women foreign to the area, and Americans in general.  Is this fear unfounded, as I hope? <It is indeed unfounded. Will ask Di to give her opinion> <<JasonC: I was wondering about similar issues, but it turns out that Sharm El Sheikh is a tourist Mecca [pardon the pun] where all bets are off. There are whole sections of beach - usually around the Italian resorts - that are topless, which for a Muslim person would be absolute sacrilege. No, Sharm is an area unto itself, and you need not be concerned about having to cover your arms or wear a burka. No worries.>> Or is it quite a real concern, and shall I bring a barrel of rubber cement, and glue myself to somebody in our group, and start working out vigorously (not like that'd hurt me, anyway)? <No one will harm you in Sharm> <<JasonC: indeed, if you go to the State Department's web site, they will tell you... Egypt relies heavily on tourism for income. Back in the late 90's a tourist bus was shot up in Khartoum [not very close to where we will be], I think nine Germans were killed. Bob said that while he was in the Red Sea later that same year, there were roughly 14 people in the hotel - Egypt simply can't afford that kind of vacancy rate, so as a result they have the Tourism and Antiquities Police, who are armed to the teeth. No one gets out of line, and the vacationers are left alone. As an extra aside, you may or may not recall that Sharm shows up in the news every so often as a place where large Middle Eastern summits occur - Clinton, Cheney, Bush have all been there - this place is pretty isolated at the base of the Sinai peninsula and you know our presidents wouldn't be going there is there wasn't a modicum of guaranteeable safety. Again, no worries.>> <<<With not too much luck, very little (some money for gewgaws, drinks)...  If WWM can only pay for part of all, you can likely pick either the Interzoo or Red Sea part...>>> Wonderful to hear!  Truly, I'm blown away by this. Wow.  Etcetera. <<So next weekend's the BARE/MARS thing, huh? <Is it next? I think it's the following... as in two Thursdays from now...> I'll definitely be at BARE, dunno about MARS, though that'd be fun (are your talks going to be the same?), and I intend to try to aim for the frag exchange.  Catch ya later,  -Sabrina>> <<<Was going to give the same pitch... or two if you and Gage might make both.>>> Well, looks like we'll both be at BARE, barring any major disasters or such. <And Paul Mansur et ux I think> I'm going to try to be at MARS, and plan to be there regardless of whether or not you give the same pitch (been wanting to go check out their group for some time), so no need to plan differently (though I certainly won't fight hearing two different talks!).  My hope is to overnight in Sac so I can go to the frag swap in Vacaville on Saturday. <<<Perhaps you should be giving one of them? Bob>>> Hah!  Not unless they want to hear about freshwater shrimp or bloaty goldfish!  ;)  -Sabrina <See you soon. Bob> <<Cheers, J -- >>

Diving friends
Hello
I see from previous FAQs that Mr. Fenner has a "diving friends" email list.
I would certainly appreciate being added to the list - I would like very
much to dive with some people who understand the subtleties of a reef.
I am just getting back into aquaria after years away - my 90 g tank should
be arriving in about 2 weeks. I am hoping to establish a reef tank, and am
trying to read everything I can get my hands on. I have really enjoyed "The
Conscientious Marine Aquarist" and the Wet Web Media.
Thank you very much.
John Mathieson
Victoria, BC Canada
<Have added your email address John. Look forward to diving with you. Bob Fenner>

Re: diving friends
Thanks for the prompt reply - do you have any trips coming up in the next
few months?
Cheers
John
<Yes. A few of us are off to the Marquesas for a week at this months end and the first week in November... you could have come with more notice. A very good time and/but I would like to explain how these trips fit into a few "types" of categories. This one is mostly a "shell collectors" venture (not me but my friends/cohorts)... some folks in the trade (Marty Beals of Tideline, and was going to be John Jackson of Odyssey Publ. but he has had some medical trouble) and some "old timers" who are college professors (malacologists) with Di and I tagging along taking pix of fishes and all sorts of sessile invertebrates... Ho-boy. And let's see, an indefinite trip out to Hawai'i next month (Big Island) to do a bit of diving, looking for some other property, and touristing in general. You're welcome to not only join us, but goose whoever is going (Pete and I... maybe Di, Big Wave Dave... a bunch of the WWM crew...) into a given time frame (a prime designator is the availability and price of flights)... so, if interested, get looking on the Cheap Flights, Expedia... and make it known if/when you want to go. And in December am hauling out to Fiji and Tonga with Walt Smith (you're welcome to go as well). Am not set on the dates yet, but Anthony (Calfo) is coming to S. Cal. re scanning for the next title in a book series... and so need to find out his schedule, and I'm going back to NJ to visit my in-laws for Xmas... Walt and family will be in Fiji for the duration, so all we need to do is coordinate the time over to Tonga with them.... Should we talk over 04? We're definitely going to the Red Sea in May after the Interzoo show in Germany... Are you a photographer, videographer? Mind trying to make pix? Bob Fenner>

Re: diving friends
You have a remarkable itinerary coming up!
<Mmm, I/we go out most months... I am a "content provider" in the ornamental aquatics and dive/adventure genres>
I am a moderate level diver, have been diving several places in Hawaii,
Cozumel, Curacao, and a bit here in the Pacific NW - I am a very poor
photographer, but have always wanted to learn UW photography - by profession
I am a radiologist.
<Ah! We'll have to keep those interests separated!>
I have had a lifelong interest in aquatic life and
oceans, and only recently had the possibility of diving more, and now
getting back into aquaria.
<Very good>
I am possibly free for a week in December - perhaps 12-20th, but not quite
sure- perhaps even the week prior - I have 4 kids and will have to be home
before Xmas, and will be at a conference in Chicago the first week of
December. I could definitely get time in January and February. Red Sea in
May - wow - sounds like a great opportunity.
<Take a look at the Interzoo site: May 13-16 we'll likely be in Nuremberg, shortly thereafter in Sharm el Sheik for about a week, some of us a few days more. You can go to the show if you'd like or just meet up with us in Egypt's Sinai>
Some of the diving I have enjoyed most has been times I could just sit
still, and watch a small patch of a reef, and see what comes out after I
have been still for 5, 10 and more minutes. Most dive groups I have been
with are in too much of a hurry, and don't take the time to appreciate small
things. I am certainly not very knowledgeable about invertebrates, but I am
trying to learn a bit.
<We definitely "take our time". Are there to enjoy, make pix, chat over what we've seen. Not interested in "a race">
I have a Nikon D100 camera, but no UW case for it. I think I will be getting
a small Canon which is easier to pack around (and less of a tragedy if an
o-ring gets a hair in it!). I have rented / borrowed some other cameras and
made a number of decidedly below average photos, but would hope to improve.
<Sounds good. We can/will help you if you'd like to become a better underwater photographer>
I look forward to exploring this further.
Cheers
John Mathieson
<Be seeing you, Bob Fenner>

Re: FW: diving friends
I forgot to mention one area of aquatic imaging I do have some experience
with. When I worked at the University in Vancouver, we were sometimes called
to the Vancouver Aquarium, to bring an ultrasound machine along, and do
various things. We used it to look at some problems the Belugas had, and
also did a whole series of obstetric ultrasound studies on the Orcas. (now
that was a patience tester!) We ended up giving an older ultrasound machine
to the aquarium staff on permanent "loan", and after teaching them to use
it, they were able to do daily studies throughout a successful Orca
pregnancy. Unfortunately, the calf died a few weeks after birth, but it was
a fascinating experience.
John
<Interesting. In the early eighties I worked with (Dr.) Sam Ridgeway, and they utilized ultrasound in investigating sound-making mechanisms in dolphins of a few species and "Sea Canaries". Bob Fenner>

Phoenix 6/28/03
Bob,
Just wanted to drop you a quick note of thanks for taking the time to
meet with us in Phoenix. I came out to the meeting for the chance to hear
your presentation. Additionally, I greatly enjoyed the opportunity to speak
with both yourself and Anthony in a casual setting over cocktails afterward.
<A pleasure meeting you as well>
I look forward to sending you more of my questions regarding the
planning of my first marine tank- a 72x24x24 180gal while I await
construction of my new home. I will be starting my diving certification next
month as we discussed, and will likely draw on your knowledge of diving
travel destinations in addition to Sulawesi.
<Please do. In fact, if you'd like, I'll add you to our "diving friends" email list and/or you can check on WetWebMedia occasionally for news of where we're headed off to and join us>
I am a California native and
traveled extensively but never made my way to Hawaii-sad isn't it? So I'll
probably start there.
<Mmm, not sad to me, but exciting in terms of anticipation of your experiencing the venture there>
Again I can't tell you what a pleasure it was to speak personally with
someone whose opinion I value so greatly on a topic I have really developed
a passion about.
Thanks Again-Keith
Keith Mullins
<Be chatting, diving, planning your new system. Bob Fenner>

Diving trip
Hi Bob,
<Hey Kirk>
Remember me from Froggies last year? 
<Yes>
Well I just got back from Lembeh and Bunaken. 
<How nice>
I just had to go back to make up for the disaster last time. I got some excellent bargains on airfare and diving. This time my camera equipment performed nearly perfectly. I shot 25 rolls of film. I haven't got my slides back yet, but I know I got some great pictures of some rare and unusual creatures (mimic octopus, yellow pygmy seahorse, etc.), mostly with a 105 mm macro. Just wanted to see how you were doing and if you were planning any dive trips next fall. I am planning a trip in October. I am thinking about maybe going to Komodo or Bali.
Kirk Cantrell
<Do keep me in mind. Will add your e-addr. to our May to June trip plans... Would you go back to Sulawesi? Would you encourage others to? Be chatting, diving. Bob F, oh, whose better pix from the area can be seen here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/macron_sulpp1.htm>

Diving in Hawaii - 2/13/03
Hey guys, <Hiya Jeremy. Paul at your service>
Since many of you guys have been diving in Hawaii, <Oh yeah> I was wondering if you could recommend the best place to go for someone with no diving and only a little snorkeling experience (besides the Waikiki Aquarium;)). <I have enjoyed diving on both Oahu, Maui, and Lanai. I have snorkeled all over all the islands except the big island of Hawaii. I really liked them all for various reasons. I feel though, if I had that one place out of the three I have dived and snorkeled, I would choose Molokini from Maui. Mike Severn's is a very attentive and informative dive outfit. Marine Biologists owned and operated. Ecology is taught and practiced. I feel no one has more intricate information about the various marine life and island dive spots en toto like Mike and his wife Pauline.> My fiancée and I are going to Hawaii for our honeymoon in July, and we were hoping to see some coral reefs (reeves?) <coral reefs> up close in their natural environment. <Good for you. A blessed jewel to behold!> There are inexpensive diving lessons offered for faculty and students at our local university's rec center pool that we are planning on taking, if we ever get the time.<I recommend doing it on the mainland before going. Not only does it cost you a fair amount of money on island but it takes time to do, thus wasting valuable trip time (As well as diving time.) Get comfortable with being and breathing underwater so you can enjoy the dive. Most new divers tell me that they never get to enjoy the dives because they are looking down at their air gauge instead of enjoying their surroundings (Not that you shouldn't check your air gauge though, heheh)> I don't want to have to resort to the submarine tour (although it may be pretty cool). <Cool, but nothing like diving!!!!>
Jeremy M. Dawson, Ph.D. <Have a great time.>

Re: Diving in Southern California
Hi Bob,
Thank you for your quick reply. We will be in LA for 14 days.
<I saw this... sorry for the lack of clarity... what I mean/t is "how much time do you want to dedicate to the diving adventure? It will take a couple of days to outfit the crew (you and daughter)... and at least another day getting on/off a boat (don't shore dive here please unless you have a good deal of experience and likely a good guide... it's cold, there are waves (conditions can change quickly), kelp, poor visibility off the coast generally... I want you and your family to have a "good experience", not one of possible danger, disappointment... pls cc your daughter on our conversations... has she seen Jay Hemdal's small book (new) on "Aquarium Careers"? I have a short review of this on WWM....>
We were
already going to take in the public aquariums and maybe even drive down to
San Diego to see Sea World. 
<See the Birch Aquarium, associated with UCSD as well... and perhaps a short trip to Boulder Point (at the end of Pt. Loma) to do a bit of tide-pooling... we have 72 miles of beaches... much of it worthwhile combing...>
I thought that this time of year would not be a
good diving time...
<Most of the time is not good off our shores... some worthwhile spots, times (not predictable...) like off Monterey Bay, various points up and down the entire California coast... depends on local weather, what you want to see, do...>
How far out are the channel islands? Are there dive
shops that take you there?
<A day's trip... and yes>
How far south along the coast do we have to go to
get acceptable diving? Do we have to get into Mexico?
<Define "acceptable"... subjective... e.g. if it's the beginning of lobster season and you "really got to have a fresh one", you might put up with getting up at midnight, getting tossed about, hung up in the kelp... I go to the grocery store the next day and buy them>
One day, we will dive
in Hawaii again and maybe even Fiji. I was just hoping we could do a little
while in So. Cal.
<You can... buy, read some of the local dive magazines, travel guides...>
As always, thanks for your quick replies and your valuable advice. Both are
greatly appreciated.
Take care, be well
Rick
<Keep studying. Bob Fenner>

Diving in Southern California
Hi Bob and WWM crew,
My family is extremely excited about our trip to Los Angeles next week. We
will be there for two weeks and we were hoping that you could help us out.
You see, my 15 year old daughter has her sights set on being a marine
biologist and would really like to experience her first dive in California.
However, we are land-locked prairie people from Canada and have no idea if
we can even find decent diving opportunities in LA this time of year, (Late
October).
<Not really... w/o getting off the coast... do you have time to haul out to the Channel Islands?>
Please help by recommending a reputable dive shop who can take two
newbies on a dive experience near LA that we will remember for the rest of
our lives.
<You'd remember it... but likely not for good reasons...>
I have dived in Hawaii but my daughter never has dived. Bob, I
know you enjoy diving very much and have dived THE BEST places our world has
to offer, please, can you suggest a dive shop that can give my daughter her
very first introduction to all the great possibilities of pursuing her
dream.
<Not here... not this time of year... you'd be better off visiting the new/er public aquarium in Long Beach (Pacific...)... or getting about to Museums, visiting Colleges...>
Of course, I want to go along for the ride. And of course, you are
welcome to come along and enjoy the experience with us.
Your Canadian friend,
<Thank you for your kind offer... how much time do you have here? Bob Fenner>
Rick
AKA Dafishguy

Re: Up and at em, it...
That reminds me... I have this Aqua Lung mouthpiece... you know the one with
the bridge for the roof of your mouth? I got one and found it to be
uncomfortable as can be and a not so good fit either... want it as a spare?
<Yes, pls... had to buy a replacement (w/o the palate-rubbing bit) in Indo... agreed the halter thang is a pain... but I should be disciplined (sound of cat o nine tails and scream in backgd) for/by carrying about such gear (and a panduit/zip tie)... As a matter of... last week saw, read a pc. in Asian Diver you could have penned (that similar) on "save a dive kits"... that had a hundred or more bits to it! Bob>
I'll send it along or bring it to TX.
<Hotay! Will buy you beers! Bob again>
J --

Open spot
Bob,
There is an open spot in La Paz on a 65 foot dive boat. Ned De Loach and I
were going but I had to cancel because my Mom is sick. It departs on the
22nd of Sept and returns on Oct 3rd. six people on a 65 foot luxury boat.
Know anyone who can go? call Ned at 1-800-737-6558
<Thanks for the heads-up Lee. I can't make it (rats!), other commitments and am still blurry from just having come back from N. Sulawesi. Will send to dive friends and post on WetWebMedia.com
Bob Fenner>
lee Peterson

FROM KEVIN CHO (Diving, fun, photography in Northern Sulawesi)
Dear Bob,
<Hey Kevin!>
I am back home now in Seoul like you.
I t was a great pleasure to meet you.
Meeting you, I learned a lot about marine creatures. Maybe I remember you
Bill Murray who is omniscient about marine biology.
<Keun, you're cracking me up>
How was Bunaken?
<Warmer, clearer, with nice guides and fellow guests, and much lower cost, but no where near the comfort of KBR>
I will visit Lembeh this year again.
Since I live in Korea, it is not easy to join the trip based on USA.
But , I am sure I can meet you again in Singapore next May.
<Great! And maybe back over in KBR as part of the same trip>
If you come to Asia again, please let me know,
I like to dive with you again.
<Outstanding. Will do so my friend>
Hope everything going alright.
KEVIN CHO
<Yes, fine. Many nice images (thus far from the 48 rolls sorted). Will send you along a few scans. Bob Fenner>

? About Virgin Islands
Bob
Kara and I are heading to the Virgin Islands from August 27 until September 7. Is there any chance of you making a get away and going diving with us? 
Let me know.
<Rats! Would love to... will be in St. Thomas first part of Nov... but during the above time off to Indo. (Lembah Strait, Sulawesi)... so no crocodilian tears for me! Bob F, just back from Coz>
Brad
Any recommendations on places to dive? 
<Mmm, no. Never been there... would suggest you do what I do... check out the latest travel books (I get mine at the library if they have recent editions), magazine articles and the Net. Bob Fenner>

Subject: Lost???
Bob, Missed you at the tank tour. Heard you had computer problems.
<Am still working on these ding dang computers... beat. Sorry to have missed
you, the tour>
Maybe
next time... Your always welcome to come see my tank anytime. Was wondering
if you were up for an evening/night dive at the LJ Shores on Tue, say around
6:30 or so? I hope you got your computer fixed. Looking forward to seeing
you underwater. Brett L.
<Let's keep chatting. I'll pull my gear out. Do you have interest in dive
traveling with us? We're out to Cozumel next month, KBR/Sulawesi in
September, Mazatlan in Oct., St. Thomas/BVI in Nov.... Not fancy goings
generally, but you're welcome to haul out/around with us. Bob Fenner>
I'd love to go sometime... but need to pay off some bills and raise credit
rating to buy a house.( Hopefully) Maybe if the trip isn't too expensive. I
need to be very frugal (read cheap) I've got two little kids and a wife that
think that they can't live without for more than a few days also. How long
are you going to be Cozumel and what do you think I'd need to save to go???
<About a week. The info. re costs, itinerary are posted here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/WWMAdminSubWebIndex/cozumel8_02.htm
Bob Fenner>

Dive 
Bob, I'm going diving tomorrow night and would like to invite you to get
used to the cold. I also am thinking about a trip to Coronado isles on the
11th Sun. You are welcome on both/either. Brett L.
<Have a bunk foot (honest) so will skip tomorrow night, thank you though. And will be in Cozumel on the 11th... hopefully with my foot in good repair. Do keep shooting for the Coronados. Have many fond memories/stories re the "Enchanted Islands". Bob F>

Dive date
Bob, How does Sunday Aug.4 work? (Didn't know if you got the last e-mail.
Had problems.) Do you want to do kelp, the wrecks or the Coronado's?
<Given a choice... the Coronado's for sure>
Also we
are having a tank tour on this sun. 28th. I'm on the tour if you would like
to go? Brett L.
<Yes, hoping to make it. See you then Bob Fenner>
"Nods" it is. I'll see what is open on the cattle boats. See you sun.;)
<Roger that. Bob F> Bob, Sorry all boats in S.D. going to the Coronado's
are full. Do you want to go another time or another place???
<Either one. What do you prefer? I can wait for the Coronado's... even
Catalina or San Clemente (if folks are still hauling out there), or we can
even do a shore entry if you'd like. Even just L.J. Cove to become
reoriented to local conditions suits. Bob F>
How long has it been? 
<Last month was in the Red Sea diving for a couple of weeks, the month before that 24 days off Queensland, Australia... but a few years of avoiding the shore here... too polluted, too little vis... but mainly just no friends to bug, be bugged by to get on out>
How about a warm-up dive off the shores then a real
dive? Do you like night dives?
<Okay, and yes. Bob F>

Squeezing into that same old wetsuit!
Bob, Call me on my cell the number has been changed to 858-414-0003 I'll be
in and out.
<Call re? Bob F>
Day, time and gear. I have a dry suit you can use and I could use my
friends, also I have tanks...But I don't have but one that is yolk fitting.
<Ohh! No worries... I'll tell you my story re not-getting cold when we're together... But I do have a wetsuit about (and hood!) that should work for off the coast...>
The others are DIN fittings and are steel. The boats do provide tanks and
weights if needed. Sundays and Tuesdays are the best days for me. we'll talk
soon.
<All days are fine for me... am "self-employed" (so work all the time...). Bob F>

Maiden's Hair and a diving question.... (Goin' to California with an achin' in my heart)
Hello Mr. Fenner, 
Phil here, I have a patch of Maiden's Hair in my 12 gallon Eclipse. It's getting bigger everyday. I plan to remove it and cut it down to size today. Its about the size of a baseball, my Tomato Clown seems to think its an anemone. 
<Neat>
Should I remove most of it or just trim it?
<I'd try cutting away about half... see how the Clown does... keep the patch at about what you consider manageable size/shape, attractive>
Thanks! BTW I will be in LA area from Aug 15 through Aug. 24. I am a certified open water scuba diver. Could you point out any good diving sites? Thanks again! 
<Mmm, well... I'd make it on down to Laguna Beach if you could... Scotchman's Cove... and there's a couple other sites near there (that might be better depending on the day's tides, currents, waves). If you can spare the time to drive up north, there are many fabulous sites (with a 7 mil suit or dry) in and around Monterey... Jade Cove all the way to off of the Aquarium... Do chat this up with the local dive shops, do take care in planning your dive/diving your plan... and DO dive with a local buddy who "knows the terrain". Bob Fenner>

Hi! Southern Cal. Diving...
Just wanted to tell you that I read your book The Conscientious Marine
Aquarist finally. It was great!! Sorry I missed the pet show this
weekend...it was my sons first B-day. Maybe next time! 
<Yes>
Is Anthony Calfo
still in town? I was hoping to talk to him more about the "coral" I found
locally or do you know someone I send it to find out what it is? Talk to ya
later Brett Lind
<Antoine is long since ret'd to beautiful Pittsburgh. Will send him your note/regards. Bob Fenner>

Southern Cal. Diving...
Thanks for the more than prompt response. I was wondering if you were
interested in doing some local wreck diving???
<Yes... not so much for the looking at, swimming about or photographing
these artifacts, but just to ding dang get out to the local waters and see
if I can squeeze like a giant sausage into any of my old wetsuits! Have
three alum. 80's that are so out of hydro, would be worth hauling down to
the Nicklin's for a laugh ("free air for life"!) but maybe rent locally for
a go. Do you have a boat, or is there a regular svc. out to?
Bob F, shivering w/ anticipation>

Re: Southern Cal. Diving...
Bob. I have tanks and some gear. Too much if you ask my wife. Do you know
how to dive a dry suit?
<Yes... but don't have one presently... Used to work for a co. that made/makes them>
Don't have a boat but the midweek trips are cheep at
some small cattle boats.
<Okay. Let's sign up sometime. Bob F>

Solo diving
So... I gather you've done a fair amount of this... as you might guess PADI
discourages this constantly. And I know what you think about buddies and how
we need to be responsible for our own gear. My question is this: with the
camera on the way, tanks in my garage, and a mellow river down the road, the
temptation is there to head down and shoot some stuff... this time of the
summer it's not even really more than chest deep in places that I would go
with the dog after work - and very clear. But... our channel swimming man
and his bath tub... yes, you know, I know.
<Yes>
Also... I've noticed that photo/video divers seem to be pretty much solo
divers... just curious to know what your thoughts on this.
<Am a big fan, and have always been of so-called solo diving... I do it, have done so for decades... One must ultimately be responsible for oneself... almost never will "buddies", "dive masters", "cards of different colors" save you... only training, practice, common sense in action will. Bob Fenner>
Cheers,
J --

FATHOMS - adventure for the serious divers
You've seen these guys - right?
http://www.fathomspub.com/index.html
<< FATHOMS-adventurefortheseriousdivers.url >>
<Nope. Thanks for sending this along. Will fwd, post to WWM. Bob Fenner

Humpback Whales
Bob-
<Howdy>
Several years ago, you helped me with a long time problem I was having of fish not living more than a few weeks in my tank. With your help, I found I had a piece of rusted metal (part of a valve the LFS sold me) that was poisoning the fish. Since that time, I have had very few deaths and have watched an Emperor Angel progress from juvenile stage to full adulthood. To return this favor, I would like to tell you of a trip I took in the winter of 2001 that may be of some interest to you and the readers of this fabulous site.
<Ah, good to hear of your success>
Having grown up, and once been an avid SCUBA diver here in San Diego, it had been a long time dream of mine to see a whale underwater. At one point, this became a life Goal¹ of mine, and it was how I found out about Aquatic Adventures, based in Florida. Tom Conlin, the owner and naturalist of Aquatic Adventures, runs an excellent operation that specializes in soft -in-water¹ encounters of humpback whales of the Silver Bank, an area of ocean approximately 75 miles off the Dominican Republic. These Œsoft-in-water¹ encounters are made using a mask, snorkel and fins, so you don¹t need to be a certified SCUBA diver. The week we spent on the boat, The M/V Wind Dancer, we would go out twice a day in smaller boats in search of whales. There was only one time that we were unable to get in the water with them. Our encounters consisted of individuals, mothers with calves, mothers/calves with an escort, and males chasing after and hoping to become an escort. Once, we were able to get in the water when a whale was Œsinging¹ and it turned out to be right under the boat. What an incredible sensation to not only see and hear, but also to feel the song of the whale
while floating above it! I could go on and on but let me finish by saying, THIS TRIP WAS AWESOME!!! The food, crew and boat are very professionally run.
<Thanks for the lead>
Bob, I realize that what you photograph underwater tends to be a bit smaller than a humpback, but I would highly recommend this trip to anyone that has any interest. For more information go to their website: www.aquaticadventures.com.
<Will post to WWM>
Thank you so much for all you have done for everyone interested in aquatic life.
Andy Lange
<Be chatting, diving my friend. Bob Fenner>

Snorkeling in La Jolla
Bob,
I have recently starting snorkeling at La Jolla Cove about 3x a week. Yesterday I decided to try the shores. I saw 20-30 leopard sharks (3-5 ft) and was wondering if they pose a threat of any sort (to me)? 
<Nope... Triakis semifasciata are at times VERY abundant where you were on up to the Sea Lodge (just shy of the Shores)... but don't bother people in the least>
I enjoyed watching them, but not enough to put myself in harms way. I also saw many sting rays in 3+ ft. water.
<Have seen thousands of Guitarfishes there seasonally...>
if one gets spooked could it surface enough to make contact with me or will they stay strictly to the
ocean floor?
<They do get up, swim about at times... but aren't interested in people>
I guess I feel a little out of place/helpless in their beautiful world. It's one thing to look through my aquarium glass, another to swim with them. Is there a good location that I can look to find the means to classify the fish I run across here in S.D.? 
<Miller and Lea Bulletin 157 Cal. Fish and Game... go to the S.I.O. (Birch) Aquarium book/gift store (you don't have to pay to just go in the side door there. And ask for this Bulletin... Green cover, you can't miss it... a dichotomous key to all fishes off our coast>
For example, I saw a "fish" that was about 3' long and looked like a cross between a ray (round, flat body) and a shark (tail). It remained on the bottom until startled, and then swam away like a shark (as opposed to the swimming motion of the rays).
Thanks for the help,
Mark
<Ah! Likely one of those Guitarfishes... Please see here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/rays.htm
Bob Fenner>

Re: Diving in the Fall
hey bob,
no problems, it is just really saber-rattling and the only prob.s are on the border area, everyplace else is normal. I will try to keep the week after our Goa trip free so we can go diving after that unless u guys want to do things differently. did u want to travel somewhere else in India and then dive? let me know.
Parvin
<Will query, and let you know. Thanks Parv. Any new movie projects coming up for you? Bob F>

Trips
Bob,
Hopefully you are enjoying the Red Sea right now. How was Interzoo? Some day I may go back to Interzoo, but not likely as a Marineland representative.
<Go as I/we do... "as ourselves". Consider coming along with us sometime Tom... continuing on to a bit of dive/travel adventure>
I just got your post cards from Cancun and Heron Island via Aquarium Systems (Letters tend to not get forwarded promptly), Thanks. They look wonderful. By the way, to get mail to me in a timely fashion use my home address.
Tom Frakes
7344 Demshar Dr.
Mentor, OH 44060
440 974-8795
<Thank you>
I still would like to get to Pohnpei (or possibly Fiji) sometime but family pressures continue to mount. Going to Bonaire in July and may have to be in Florida in Aug for my daughter who might attend U. South Florida and will be moving in. This is subject to change when she finally decides where she is going. 
<I understand>
Also possibly early/mid Sept. but after that my travel will be limited for the fall.
Regards,
Tom
<Let's keep dreaming, scheming re Pohnpei. Know you will have a great time in Bonaire. Chat with you soon. Bob Fenner>

Greetings (Diving in Sri Lanka)
Good evening Robert et al. Hope you are all well.
<Yes my friend>
My tank is still overgrown with hair algae and diatoms :( but the fight
continues.
<Yes>
This is however not my query this evening. I am off next week for a 10
day business trip to Sri Lanka and was wondering if you had any
recommendations as to the snorkeling/ diving in this part of the
world. We shall be in Colombo for the most part but I shall have two
days free when I get there. Just curious.
<Mmm, have yet to visit there... have chatted with folks in the trade there at shows... and did want to travel, dive about Colombo later this year... But don't know first-hand what the conditions are, where one might go. I would "search the net" for several hours to gather ideas at this point, visit with dive services over cyber-space... Plan on arrival. Bob Fenner>
Thanks for any advice/suggestions.
Cheers.
Julian Hunt

Have you seen this?
https://www.h2oinsurance.com/
<Sort of. DAN's about everywhere now... the PADI of insurance. Bob F>

Re: have you seen this?
Well, ok... I mean, I didn't pay cash for the universe. I'm just working off
my own lost-luggage, insufficient airline payback experiences. It really
sucks to get to a ski vacation without your skis and everything else.
I'll take your word for it.
<Am not much "into" insurance schemes... Buy such policies if they suit you. Bob F>
J --

Scuba Cert.
Is there any problem with getting a NAUI certification vs. PADI?
<None at all... A "C" card is a "C" card... and both organizations programs are worthwhile, worthy>
The NAUI one is pretty inexpensive around here, at the local community
college. -Steven Pro
<Go with them. The outfit I was certified with in... 66... No worries... How to make what I mean known (is it impossible to state exactly what I mean?)... The instruction you receive and what you come away with will be/is a function of what the instructor offers, what you are interested, capable and able to receive... you do understand. Bob F>

Sherwood Scuba Recalls Regulators (washingtonpost.com)
I thought this might be of interest to you and some readers of WWM.
Ann
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A11425-2002Apr30.html
<Thank you. Will post. Bob Fenner>

Diving in theory, reality, coming up soon!
Jas, go with light models, hauling the crap around the world is the pits, in fact I don't take fins, just as easy to rent at the dive shop-----no lugging the smelly things about. Yes Bob is right the big boys are OK for cruising but if your gonna be looking about going thru tunnels, you don't wanna be kicking up dirt in folks face. If the dive boat is small platform wise, people with their big ass fins are the pits and we cruise by em anyway, technique is the answer, you'll pick it up fast, too many folks get too excited and thrash about using air, and scaring animals, then having to surface whilst other people still have a ton of air. The best advice I can give you is to watch the experienced divers. Am getting excited about the trip, really want to get the trade show on video, as well as get a Sharm story above and below water, so we can at last be up and running with video on WWM.

Vacation
Bob,
We are flying into LAX Wednesday night and plan to rent a car and drive to
a friends place in Pacific Beach. We have no set plans as of yet. Do you
have any suggestions of places we should visit? 
<In PB or the whole of Southern California? Many!>
We intend to check out the
area with the intent of possibly moving there in May of 2003 after Kara
graduates.
<A very spread-out town, big place... and very worthwhile to do the investigating as you propose... in advance. Some nice areas, some not so... a lot dependent on area, the actual neighbors nearby...>
We will probably take you up on your offer to let us stay at your place. I
know that my friend Kurt has to work during the week so I am sure he wants
us to stay at his place on the weekend. Maybe we can get together with you
Thursday or Friday. What area of San Diego do you live in.
<About in the middle: Mira Mesa. On the north rim overlooking Penasquitos Canyon>
Is there any point to us bringing our dive gear? Or is it way to cold for
diving? How about surfing?
<... I don't dive very often off the coast... not much "vis", lots of pollution... You're welcome to borrow any/all of my gear, and/or a surfboard if you'd like. Bob Fenner>
Brad

Fiji-2003
Hi
We have listened to you speak at several organizational meetings
including Ann Arbor and MACNA and a few years ago you came over to see
John's tank set-up. Was 180 gallons then-up to a 300 with a 130 sump
now. Anyway, after your last engagement in Ann Arbor in March, your
photo's got us hooked on wanting to go scuba diving in the Fiji
Islands. We are hoping to go in 2003. Do you already have any planned
trips to the Fiji's and if so-on what dates?
<None yet... but will very likely be going there (do so once to thrice a year generally), and you're welcome to "come along" with me and friends to dive, make pix, video. Mmm, I like to make "dive lists" for folks who have gone, might go in future. Will add your e-mail address to this, otherwise, do check in periodically. No specific dates at this time. Off to the Red Sea in a few weeks (after Interzoo in Germany), is all that is penciled in in ink. Be chatting, diving. Bob Fenner>
John and Pam McDougall

Re: check out dives, Jack will you look into combined dive rates?
oh man...
http://www.sinaidivers.com/sd/english/index.htm
<What an absolutely fabulous website! Will add to our WWM... Bob F>