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Erik Petkovic on Lake Erie Wrecks at the DC Dive Show

Erik Petkovic on Lake Erie Wrecks at the DC Dive Show #diveshow #diving #scuba #lakeerie #greatlakes #wrecks

1: Guide to Lake Erie Technical Wreck Diving

This weekend at the DC Dive Show in Washington, Erik Petkovic will present two seminars on the well-preserved shipwrecks in Lake Erie. The first, ‘Guide to Lake Erie Technical Wreck Diving’, is a seminar on his acclaimed new book Lake Erie Technical Wreck Diving Guide.  Erik will take the audience below the surface to explore the deepest wrecks in…

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Scuba Diving in the Fort Lauderdale area offers some of the best diving in North America. Ft Lauderdale has its own commercial inlet, Port Everglades, which gives quick access to the reef and wrecks laying just a mile off shore. The Fort Lauderdale area has more fish, more wrecks, better reefs and better boats than anywhere in the U.S.

Greater Fort Lauderdale is not only home to 23 miles of golden sand beaches but also to an array of dive sites and marine life. From Deerfield Beach in the north to Hallandale Beach in the south, a unique natural three-tiered reef system begins in 20 feet of water just 100 yards from shore at its closest point. And more than 75 artificial reefs have been placed on the ocean’s floor over the past 20 years as magnets for fish and reef life. Beginning in depths of 30 feet, there are more than 100 dive sites with permanent mooring buoys to reduce anchor damage.

The Fort Lauderdale coast is one the world’s premiere wreck diving destinations. Since 1982 the Broward County Department of Natural Resource Protection with the help of various private companies has created more than 75 artificial reefs sunk at various levels. Most are sunk at 65 feet or deeper and are intact and covered in soft corals. Many of them have a colorful history. Some available to visit are the Rebel, Mercedes, Jay Scutti, Robert Edmister, and Hog Heaven.

Drift Diving, also nicknamed “Valet Diving” is extremely popular. South Florida’s reef tract is linear and the warm Gulfstream current flows parallel to the shoreline creating perfect drift diving conditions. Unlike many dive destinations that make you swim out and back to the boat, in South Florida we simply drop you in with a flag and you drift until you are ready to surface, then we pick you up.

Once a year, there is a special dive called, Coral Spawning Night Dive. Approximately 6-8 days after the August full moon we should see star and boulder corals spawning about 3 hours after sunset. The corals have evolved a method of reproduction called ‘Broadcast Spawning’ which creates our future coral reefs. This wonder of nature only occurs once a year, you can’t miss it!

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Quick quiz – what do the Great Barrier Reef,  and Truk Lagoon all have in common?  While it’s true they are all unique and exciting dive destinations, each spot is also within the jurisdiction of a foreign country that requires a citizen of the United States to possess a passport for entry.  And while you may not be planning on a foreign jaunt, having a passport will prepare you just in case a great deal comes along.

In general, you will need a passport if you are planning on leaving the U.S. or one of its territories.  You will not be able to re-enter the country without one.  There are some exceptions to this rule:

If you travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, you may use a less expensive passport card to re-enter the United States at land border-crossings and sea ports-of-entry.  They, however, cannot be used for air travel to or from these destinations.  You may also use a NEXUS card for entering and leaving Canada by land, sea or air.

You do not need a passport if you are taking a “closed-loop” cruise which begins and ends at the same U.S. port, but are required to have a birth certificate and government-issued photo I.D.  You may need a passport, however, if you plan on disembarking in certain foreign countries.  Because of this possibility, many cruise lines strongly suggest obtaining one.

If you are under 16 and are traveling to and from Canada by land or sea, a passport is not required but you must have your birth certificate.

Passports are not required if you are traveling to and from the U.S. and a U.S. territory.

First time applicants must apply in person at a designated location (the state department website will help you find the closest).  You may download and print a DS 11  application from the state department website or obtain one from your post office.  Bring it and your birth certificate to the designated location along with a current I.D. and a passport photo.  Photos can be taken at most places where film is developed.

Once applied for, it takes several weeks for your passport to be processed.  Keep in mind that some countries (as well as airlines) require you to have a passport in your possession for six months before entering or boarding.

Keep in mind that while airlines will allow air tanks (that have the regulator valve off) as well as dive knives and spearguns (properly sheathed and packed in checked luggage), these items may be forbidden aboard your cruise ship.  Make sure you check with the cruise line prior to booking passage.

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While Florida has long laid claim to the title of “America’s Playground”, those in the states wishing to head out on a foreign vacation often choose the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.  The nation, which is composed of 700 islands, is synonymous with tropical travel and can be reached via a quick trip from the U.S. mainland.  Millions of people worldwide visit each year to kick back and enjoy the balmy weather, white beaches and invitingly warm water.

Because of it’s location and history, the country is truly a diver’s paradise.  For most of the year the water temperature ranges from the upper 70s to the mid-80s, and the air is rarely below 70 degrees.  Numerous reefs abound with vibrantly-colored coral and fish.  And since they lay in the middle of shipping lanes, the islands were a major haven for pirates during the 17th and 18th centuries (Nassau was virtually ruled by them in the beginning of the 1700s).  The surrounding waters are filled with hundreds of vessels sent to the bottom due to plundering and storms.

The following is a brief rundown of some popular dive spots:

New Providence Island– Home to the capital city of Nassau, this island’s south side features the shark wall, a steep drop-off that’s turned into an underwater buffet.  When dive guides insert prepared baitfish into cracks and crevices, reef sharks swim in for a snack and present visitors with a one-of-a-kind photo op.

Bimini – Besides three miles of reefs, Bimini features several blue holes, unique formations common to the Bahamas that are the result of an underwater cave’s roof collapsing.  Divers can also explore the Bimini Road, a mysterious rock formation that some claim is part of the lost city of Atlantis.

Great Guana Cay – This small island is a nesting ground for several species of turtles as well as  a magnificent reef composed of elkhorn and staghorn coral.

Lucayan National Park – Within this Grand Bahama Island sanctuary, divers can experience the thrill of winding their way through six miles of subterranean freshwater caves, the longest complex of its kind in the world.

Harbor Island (Eleuthera) – Several wrecks lie at rest in the surrounding waters, including the remains of a steam locomotive sold by the Confederate States of America in order to fund its involvement in the Civil War.

Andros–  Off the eastern shore of this island lies a massive fringing-barrier reef, the third largest in the world.  Divers can swim among a plethora of marine life including French Angelfish, Nassau Grouper, Stoplight Parrotfish and view giant tube sponges, brain coral and Venus Sea Fans.

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Although some still consider it exciting, modern air travel can be severely trying at times.  Expensive tickets, lengthy layovers, cramped seats and sub-par meals are often the order of the day, not to mention weight limits for luggage and outright bans on certain items.  Yet if you want to explore far-off locales such as the Great Barrier Reef or Truk Lagoon, flying is usually the quickest and cheapest option.

Because scuba diving involves a good deal of equipment, the traveling diver should be well versed on the ins and outs of what to expect at the airport and how to prepare for a hassle-free trip.  While you can usually rent everything that you need when you get to your destination, this is not always the case with remote locations.  Besides, taking your own stuff is cheaper, and you won’t have to worry about not getting a proper fit when it comes to a mask and fins.  The following are guidelines set by the Transportation Security Administration regarding scuba gear.

Air Tanks –  By law, you may bring your tank as checked or carry-on luggage, but only if  the regulator valve has been removed and the tank is not sealed.  This allows for the authorities to inspect inside for hidden material.  Even if the tank is empty, it will not be allowed on board with the regulator valve attached.  Because this involves emptying your tank, then having a technician inspect and fill it before you dive, it may be wise to leave this particular item at home.

Regulators and BCDs – These may be brought as checked or carry-on luggage.  Keep in mind, however, that a buoyancy control device can take up a bit of space in an overhead compartment, so it may be best in your suitcase or dive bag.

Dive Knives, Spearguns and Assorted Tools –  Knives and spearguns must be packed in checked luggage only.  These must be properly sheathed to avoid harming baggage handlers (as well as your clothing).  Tools that do not have sharp edges such as wrenches, pliers and screwdrivers may be brought in carry-on luggage if they are seven inches or less in length.

Masks, Fins, Snorkels and Wetsuits – All can be brought in the cabin or cargo hold.  It is advised that you place your mask in a case or between clothing to ensure the lens is safe.

Remember to check the TSA website before traveling in order to be aware of any changes.

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There’s nothing like venturing out to uncharted waters for a change of pace.  A beautiful location such as Bali, Australia or Key Largo can offer a wealth of amazing undersea vistas.  Sure, you may have to travel quite a distance, but when you’re floating through a liquid heaven without a care on your mind the miles and time will vanish from memory.

Yet you still have to get where you’re going, and it’s usually not as simple as tossing your stuff into the trunk and heading out.  While you can often rent gear at your destination, many people prefer using some of their own items like masks and fins.   Fortunately there are a wide variety of items designed to make traveling easy for the diver.  Here are a few things to consider picking up before setting off on vacation:

Dive bag – Even if you do most of your diving locally, chances are you own some sort of  gear bag or duffle.  But if you have something simple and are planning on traveling via a plane, ship, or train, you may want to upgrade.  Many companies offer waterproof hard- and soft-sided bags with wheels and handles that will stand up to the rigors of packed cargo holds and keep your equipment safe from theft.  Some models even convert to backpacks for added convenience.  Keep in mind, however, that hard cases take up a good amount of space on a boat and can be unwieldy in the sand; if you use one, pack a soft bag as well to use when you reach your destination.

Travel BCD – Besides your air tank, a BCD is the largest (and heaviest) piece of your scuba setup.  Nowadays, however, you can beat the airline weight restrictions with a compact-sized travel model weighing only a few pounds yet just as effective as a full-sized version.  Available in both jacket and wing styles,  they often come with their own carrying bag yet can easily be stowed inside a suitcase as well.

Diving suit garment bag – To ensure that all-important perfect fit, divers often bring their wet or dry suit with them on vacation.  But a soaking suit can ruin a regular garment bag in the blink of an eye.  Thankfully, you can now choose a waterproof bag especially designed with your suit in mind.  Durable enough for the trip over, they feature venting and drains that allow water to dissipate thoroughly and quickly.

Dry pouch – When you’re far from home, the last thing you want to experience is a hotel room or bungalow break-in.  Theft can happen everywhere and cause you trip to come to a jarring halt.  Fortunately you can keep the important stuff on you while you dive with specially-designed vinyl pouches.  Able to withstand significant pressure, they’ll easily hold personal items such as passports, currency, cell phones and jewelry.

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When many of us think of scuba diving, one of the first things that comes to mind is the ocean. Perhaps we envision a coral reef, sunken ship or undersea canyon just waiting to be explored. And sure enough, plenty of dives have taken place in saltwater. But the earth has quite a bit of freshwater as well, much of which is just as wondrous.

One piece of popular culture that helped spur the early popularity of scuba diving was a TV show called Sea Hunt. Running from 1958 to 1961, it chronicled the escapades of Mike Nelson, a former navy frogman played by Lloyd Bridges who spent each episode swimming his way through an underwater adventure. From saving a downed pilot to rescuing a dog, Mike did it all with the ocean as a stunning backdrop. Except that many times it wasn’t really the ocean. For much of what was filmed had been done in an amazingly crystal-clear body of water named Silver Springs located in the middle of Florida.

This is just one of many beautiful freshwater springs located throughout the north and central portion of the state. A perfect merger of pristine water and lush vegetation, each one is a unique sub-tropical oasis. Many are just an hour or two from the Jacksonville area and, as an added bonus, the average year-round temperature of spring water is 72 degrees. Please note, however, that scuba diving is prohibited in many springs, so be sure to check before you head out.

A list of diver-friendly locations in Florida are featured below:

Devil’s Den – An amazing natural phenomenon, this large sinkhole just south of Gainesville sits below a massive cave and features plenty of underwater caverns lined with numerous fossils.

Blue Springs – Located in Orange City, this spring is just thirty minutes north of Orlando and features several caves. Diving is prohibited when manatees frequent the area during the winter months or when there is a large bloom of algae.

Alexander Springs – Roughly an hour’s drive north of Orlando, Alexander Springs is located in the Ocala National Forest and is a great spot for the beginning diver. The spring has a large basin and a small cavern, and is home to many different types of fish.

Crystal River – Featuring three separate springs, this dive spot lies on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico, so visitors often encounter ocean fish such as snapper and tarpon. This is also the only location in the U.S. where you can swim with manatees.

Troy Springs – This spring can be found in the northern part of the state not far from Lake City and sits upon an offshoot of the Suwannee River. Very accessible, the spring is large and deep (68 feet at the bottom) and one may view fossil formations embedded within the walls. Divers who enter the river run will come upon the remains of the Madison, a steamboat that was sunk during the early days of the Civil War.

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It is not know exactly when the first human caught a fish with some sort of spear, but we’ve been doing it for a very long time; cave paintings featuring depictions of the act have been found dating back nearly twenty thousand years.  And its popularity was widespread as well – whether standing in a stream gigging trout or on the deck of a whaler harpooning bowheads, people all over the world were involved with the practice in some way or another.

You didn’t have to actually be in the water to catch fish, but it often bettered your chances and increased your range.  In the ‘20s this “total immersion” form of spearfishing gained popularity in the Mediterranean, practiced by divers who donned little more than swim goggles.  With the invention of the speargun and SCUBA system, the sport came into its own and grew in popularity.  Individuals could now pursue their quarry for longer periods of time with more accuracy and range.

With it’s large coastline, Florida is truly a spearfishing enthusiast’s paradise.  From  north to south, a massive variety of different species can be taken in deep and shallow water.  And some of the best spearfishing grounds lie off of the state’s west coast.  Below is a listing of prime (and interesting) spots to try in the region:

USS Oriskany: 22 miles off of Pensacola lies this Essex-class aircraft carrier, the largest artificial reef in the world.  At 157 feet long, the Oriskany  is home to various fish including grouper, amberjack and tuna.  With the top deck level of the island at 68 feet and the flight deck midsection at 135, there’s plenty of good hunting for divers of all experience levels.

“Jeff A” Hovercraft: If you’ve got a taste for flounder, this prototype navy landing ship is a “must-dive”.  Lying upside-down in 72 feet of water off of Panama City, the craft is a temporary home for scores of the migrating flatfish.

Bendickson Tank Reefs: One of the state’s most unique reef systems consists of ten U.S. Army M60 main battle tanks sunk in 20 to 30 feet of water 18 miles off of Hernando County.  Plenty of fish – including snapper, mackerel and barracuda – frequent the area around the armored vehicles.

Veterans Park: This artificial reef chain can be found 12 miles northwest of Clearwater.  Made up of three steel barges, construction debris and pyramid-like concrete structures, the site is under 43 to 37 feet of water and attracts species such as mackerel and grouper.

Edison Reef: Although appearing to be a natural reef, this structure is actually the remains of the Edison Bridge that once crossed the Caloosahatchee River. Plenty of cobia and amberjack can be found throughout the 25,000 tons of concrete, which sits at 40 feet deep 15 miles off of Sanibel.

Before heading out on a dive, please be sure to check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website for information regarding rules, regulations and protected species.

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