Setting Sail from Saga Haven Marina

The sun was just beginning to rise over the horizon as I made my way to Saga Haven Marina, the starting point for my latest adventure: Discover Scuba Diving in St Thomas. The air was filled with the salty scent of the ocean, and the gentle lapping of waves against the dock set the perfect backdrop for what promised to be an unforgettable day. As a former professional surfer, I’ve spent countless hours in the water, but the idea of exploring the depths of the ocean with scuba gear was a thrilling new frontier.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by the friendly crew of Aqua Marine, including our instructor for the day, Steph from Switzerland. Her warm smile and easygoing demeanor immediately put me at ease. After a brief lesson on scuba equipment and hand signals, we were ready to embark on our journey. The boat ride to Buck Island was filled with laughter and anticipation, as Captain Tommy regaled us with tales of the sea.

Diving into the Deep Blue

Our first dive was a shallow wreck dive, and as I descended into the water, I was struck by the vibrant colors of the coral reef and the myriad of tropical fish darting around me. It was a surreal experience, breathing underwater for the first time, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and awe at the beauty of the underwater world.

Steph was an incredible instructor, guiding us with patience and expertise. Her ability to make everyone feel comfortable and confident was truly remarkable. As we explored the wreck, I spotted a nurse shark gliding gracefully through the water, followed by a stingray and a reef shark. It was a mesmerizing sight, and I felt a deep connection to the ocean and its inhabitants.

After the first dive, we had the option to snorkel or upgrade to a second dive. Naturally, I chose to dive again, eager to see more of what the ocean had to offer. The second dive was equally breathtaking, with a plethora of beautiful fish of all sizes swimming in their natural habitat. It was a reminder of the incredible diversity and wonder that lies beneath the surface of the sea.

A Day to Remember

As we made our way back to the marina, the boat was filled with the sounds of laughter and excitement. The crew of Aqua Marine had gone above and beyond to make our experience truly special, and I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to scuba diving. Captain Tommy’s laid-back attitude and the professionalism of the entire team made for a relaxed and enjoyable day on the water.

Reflecting on the experience, I was reminded of the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and trying new things. As someone who has spent a lifetime riding the waves, diving into the depths of the ocean was a thrilling new adventure that reignited my passion for the sea. I left St. Thomas with a newfound appreciation for the underwater world and a desire to continue exploring its wonders.

For anyone looking to experience the magic of scuba diving, I highly recommend Discover Scuba Diving in St Thomas. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a complete beginner, the team at Aqua Marine will ensure you have an unforgettable experience. Until next time, keep riding the waves and exploring the beauty of the ocean!