Underwater Diving

This afternoon we went under water diving just off the island.

Generally, you need to get certified or go through a resort test in a dive pool to make sure you can breathe underwater with a regulator and mask.

I did the Scuba course in Cancun with Vicki and was able to handle the ocean dive without incident - even with my breathing problems.

Today we did something called SNUBA.  Essentially the tank you wear on your back sits in a raft on the surface.  You wear a weight belt and have a harness with the regulator and hose to the surface.  It is essentially all of the dangers of SCUBA and none of the convenience (or training).

My weight belt was too heavy and I struggled to keep from sinking which made me lose my breath and struggle badly in the water.  Eventually I lost the weight belt and stayed on the surface. 

TJ did OK until the pressure of the water cause a serious nose bleed.  When he surfaced his face was covered in blood.  My first reaction was to make sure he was OK followed by an immediate second reaction - SHARKS.

There was enough blood in the water for concern on my part - I watch Discovery Channel.  The Bahamiam guide said, "Chill Mon, we don't need to worry bout no shark.". To say that the guide's reassurances meant anything to me would be an overstatement.  As far as I was concerned, the guide had 5-7 bong hits of the finest marijuana available in the Caribbean before we sailed.

Anyway, we made it back to the boat safely.  The picture is of TJ climbing back on the boat after jumping into the water from the second deck.  I will post the jump on Youtube soon.