All of the Open Water students decided to do their Advanced course which was great. I just feel for Clare the girl with the ear infection that couldn't continue but at least she's got her Scuba Diver certification.
In the Advanced course, the students have to do a 'Deep' (30mtrs) and 'Navigation' dive combined with another three, so the majority went for Peak Performance Buoyancy, Night, Wreck apart from one who chose Photography.
The Advanced course, two days of diving went really well apart from the night dive which I found the most challenging.
On the Night dive descent, one of the girls freaked just 1 or 2 meters down because her torch went out and managed to scramble to the surface between the rungs of the boats ladder ..which is near enough impossible but once I whacked her light, which then came on again, she was fine. I dread to think what might have happened if it had been choppy.
Once in the water there was a slight current which didnt help. Then to find an appropriate place and to communicate to them, to navigate a reciprocal heading (which I'd briefed and written down on a slate for them) was a complete nightmare, God knows what I would have done if Simon wasn't there. Then once that was over, I spotted a cuttle fish, my first since being on the island and what did one of the girls do? She nearly stood on it! Arrggggh!!! As you can tell, taking students out on a night dive for the first time is not one of my favourite pastimes.
Friday, 30 April 2010
Day 82- 26th April 2010
Morning dives went well and back on dry land we washed our dive kits and then gathered in the restaurant. All students apart from one girl who had developed an ear infection had sucessfully passed their Open Water. I completed their temporary Open Water Cards whilst Nathan took them up to retail to have their photo's taken. All in all they'd done brilliantly and were all hopefully going on to do their Advanced course.
That evening we arranged to meet up at the new 'Regal' hotel to watch their video. It turned out to be a great night as it was Crystal's bosses wifes birthday and they'd put on a band, dance performances and a free buffet. Everyone seemed to be there and as the night went on, people were being thrown in the Regal pool. I fortunately stayed dry :-)
That evening we arranged to meet up at the new 'Regal' hotel to watch their video. It turned out to be a great night as it was Crystal's bosses wifes birthday and they'd put on a band, dance performances and a free buffet. Everyone seemed to be there and as the night went on, people were being thrown in the Regal pool. I fortunately stayed dry :-)
Day 81- 25th April 2010
This morning the Open Water students did their final exam and swim tests, whilst Nathan, Simon and I headed out on the longtail to put down a new anchor line and to check out the coral nursery Junk Yard reef.
Around midday, we met with students with dive bags prepared and headed to the boat for dives 1 & 2 which were both at 'Mango Bay' Nathan briefed the dives and I led ..after dive 1 I felt pretty disheartened as it was like trying to herd cats. Dive 2 was much better, students were starting to find their buoyancy and I felt pretty proud of them.
Tomorrow, it's an early start, 7am for their final dives 3 & 4, so after a few beers at Crystal we headed home. I say home but we were actually dog, cat and house sitting for Alan & Heidi for the night, whilst they were in Samui. Riding up to their house on the bike reminded me of how I do not miss that hill...
Around midday, we met with students with dive bags prepared and headed to the boat for dives 1 & 2 which were both at 'Mango Bay' Nathan briefed the dives and I led ..after dive 1 I felt pretty disheartened as it was like trying to herd cats. Dive 2 was much better, students were starting to find their buoyancy and I felt pretty proud of them.
Tomorrow, it's an early start, 7am for their final dives 3 & 4, so after a few beers at Crystal we headed home. I say home but we were actually dog, cat and house sitting for Alan & Heidi for the night, whilst they were in Samui. Riding up to their house on the bike reminded me of how I do not miss that hill...
Monday, 26 April 2010
Day 80 - 24th April 2010
So today continued with more "roof work" in very hot conditions, and then in the afternoon we all jumped in the pool to train some new divers for the confined session of Open Water Diver.
Also, Rob (one of the "Sweet Transvestites in Rocky Horror") had arrived back from hospital where he had been since the Rocky Horror show, since he had a rather nasty meeting with a taxi while riding his bike home...
Here he is showing off his nicely repaired foot!
Also, Rob (one of the "Sweet Transvestites in Rocky Horror") had arrived back from hospital where he had been since the Rocky Horror show, since he had a rather nasty meeting with a taxi while riding his bike home...
Here he is showing off his nicely repaired foot!
Saturday, 24 April 2010
Day 79 - 23rd April 2010
More of the same today..
After completed the frames yesterday, we started working on the material of the "roof" which is made out of green plastic net, so we can transplant coral on to it..
All day long in the sun, doing this was incredibly draining, and we stopped about 6pm, grabbed a quick bite to eat and then home to bed...
After completed the frames yesterday, we started working on the material of the "roof" which is made out of green plastic net, so we can transplant coral on to it..
All day long in the sun, doing this was incredibly draining, and we stopped about 6pm, grabbed a quick bite to eat and then home to bed...
Friday, 23 April 2010
Day 78 - 22nd April 2010
Its time to renovate "The Junkyard".
Organised a week ago, we went in this morning to start building some new structures to expand the artificial dive site we created 1 year ago.
Sadly, due to miscommunication... Jen, Me, Nathan, and Debbie out of the 25 people who signed up for it.. were the only ones who turned up. It didn't matter... Jen and I had our own idea for a "Coral House" and went shopping for materials to build it.
After shopping all morning, we returned to the beach to start building our "house"
It took the rest of the day to plan, build, argue, debate etc. for Jen and I to finally build our frame.
We ended the day quite tired from all the sun and hard work, but we had to attend the islands 1st Eco Film Festival. I had created a film for the festival, basically just a neater version of a video I did last year here. Unfortunately, due to issues beyond my control, I had to pull the film from the festival.
Even though my film was not on, we went and watched the other 10 films showing. The standard of most of them was not great, but I guess the message was there... They were trying to do some good.
We left there asap, to go to bed!
Organised a week ago, we went in this morning to start building some new structures to expand the artificial dive site we created 1 year ago.
Sadly, due to miscommunication... Jen, Me, Nathan, and Debbie out of the 25 people who signed up for it.. were the only ones who turned up. It didn't matter... Jen and I had our own idea for a "Coral House" and went shopping for materials to build it.
After shopping all morning, we returned to the beach to start building our "house"
It took the rest of the day to plan, build, argue, debate etc. for Jen and I to finally build our frame.
We ended the day quite tired from all the sun and hard work, but we had to attend the islands 1st Eco Film Festival. I had created a film for the festival, basically just a neater version of a video I did last year here. Unfortunately, due to issues beyond my control, I had to pull the film from the festival.
Even though my film was not on, we went and watched the other 10 films showing. The standard of most of them was not great, but I guess the message was there... They were trying to do some good.
We left there asap, to go to bed!
Thursday, 22 April 2010
Day 77 - 21st April 2010
Marine Resouce Management - Final Day
An early start today as we were out on the 7.30am boat for a couple of observatory dives at 'White Rock' and 'Twins' Both dives were good, looking at coral types, formations, diffences of depth and shallow waters, bleaching etc At the end of both dives we all did some 'Coral Watch' basically noting the darkest & lightest parts of a coral against a colour chart which Nathan was going to log later.
Back on dry land Simon and I had a quick snorkel at the front of Crystal to look for a spot to place our coral nursery. Only meters away was a cordened off snorkel area and just infront of that, found a sandy area which would be ideal.
After lunch at 'Safety Stop' we gathered in the Crystal bar area just as the concrete pilars arrived. How perfectly timed was that?! So that meant we could now deploy our nursery.
The concrete pillars were really heavy and I struggled with mine but with them all in the water and coral nursary tied on top, we started to gather broken bits of coral. Our first study will be of Foliose coral. We collected 21 pieces which were put in order of size in 3 rows and then placed gently on the netting, which was cut to accomodate each piece to keep it in place.
It'll be really interesting to see how/if the broken bits of coral take. Nathan's taken some photo's so we'll post these soon.
Courses like 'Reef Check' and Marine Resource Management ..have enlightened us both, we look at the coral reef in a totally different light. as to how complex and important they are to us to the world, and our survival...
An early start today as we were out on the 7.30am boat for a couple of observatory dives at 'White Rock' and 'Twins' Both dives were good, looking at coral types, formations, diffences of depth and shallow waters, bleaching etc At the end of both dives we all did some 'Coral Watch' basically noting the darkest & lightest parts of a coral against a colour chart which Nathan was going to log later.
Back on dry land Simon and I had a quick snorkel at the front of Crystal to look for a spot to place our coral nursery. Only meters away was a cordened off snorkel area and just infront of that, found a sandy area which would be ideal.
After lunch at 'Safety Stop' we gathered in the Crystal bar area just as the concrete pilars arrived. How perfectly timed was that?! So that meant we could now deploy our nursery.
The concrete pillars were really heavy and I struggled with mine but with them all in the water and coral nursary tied on top, we started to gather broken bits of coral. Our first study will be of Foliose coral. We collected 21 pieces which were put in order of size in 3 rows and then placed gently on the netting, which was cut to accomodate each piece to keep it in place.
It'll be really interesting to see how/if the broken bits of coral take. Nathan's taken some photo's so we'll post these soon.
Courses like 'Reef Check' and Marine Resource Management ..have enlightened us both, we look at the coral reef in a totally different light. as to how complex and important they are to us to the world, and our survival...
Wednesday, 21 April 2010
Day 76 - 20th April 2010
Marine Resource Management - Day 3
This morning we completed all the theory covering:
The Effects of Marine Tourism
What Science says about divers
Marine Protected Area's
Sustainable Dive Practices
We had lunch and then our next task was to construct a coral nursery. It just had to be simple so we all popped up to the wholesalers with Nathan and bought pvc piping with connectors, netting and conctrete pillars. We cut the piping into 2 x150cm and 2 x 100cm lengths and joined them together with the connectors forming a large rectangle. Then covered that with netting, holding it in place with string. I must say our first attempt wasn't bad at all, we could have overlapped the netting to make it slightly stronger, but we'll see how it holds up when it's in the water and has coral on it.
So, with the nursery nearly complete, we just needed the concrete pilars, which will act as table legs. Unfortunately they're being deliverered tomorrow, so work came to a stop.
For a change we finished pretty early so headed home for a shower after a sweaty day in the Crystal workshop.
This morning we completed all the theory covering:
The Effects of Marine Tourism
What Science says about divers
Marine Protected Area's
Sustainable Dive Practices
We had lunch and then our next task was to construct a coral nursery. It just had to be simple so we all popped up to the wholesalers with Nathan and bought pvc piping with connectors, netting and conctrete pillars. We cut the piping into 2 x150cm and 2 x 100cm lengths and joined them together with the connectors forming a large rectangle. Then covered that with netting, holding it in place with string. I must say our first attempt wasn't bad at all, we could have overlapped the netting to make it slightly stronger, but we'll see how it holds up when it's in the water and has coral on it.
So, with the nursery nearly complete, we just needed the concrete pilars, which will act as table legs. Unfortunately they're being deliverered tomorrow, so work came to a stop.
For a change we finished pretty early so headed home for a shower after a sweaty day in the Crystal workshop.
Monday, 19 April 2010
Day 75 - 19th April 2010
Marine Resource Management - Day 2!
More classroom theory in the morning, with me being quite grumpy since I hadn't slept enough or eaten properly! Once we were done with that, it was time to grab the afternoon boat for a coral nursery observatory dive.
We dived at Aow Leuk on the other side of the island, and met up with New Heaven dive school to plant coral mushrooms.
Two weeks ago, they dive during a coral spawning (happens once or twice a year) and caught eggs in nets to grow on land (in aquariums) and transplant onto little concrete mushrooms, to see if we can assist in the growth of coral reefs.
Coral spawning
Using nets to catch the eggs
Larvae attached to the "mushrooms"
Today it was time to put them in the water and hope they grow.
It was a good dive, and due to the highly experimental nature of this project, I don't predict a high success rate, but trial and error can only improve it.
In the evening, after an exploratory night dive, we went to Muay Thai to see a few boxing matches, and then to bed.... super tired...
More classroom theory in the morning, with me being quite grumpy since I hadn't slept enough or eaten properly! Once we were done with that, it was time to grab the afternoon boat for a coral nursery observatory dive.
We dived at Aow Leuk on the other side of the island, and met up with New Heaven dive school to plant coral mushrooms.
Two weeks ago, they dive during a coral spawning (happens once or twice a year) and caught eggs in nets to grow on land (in aquariums) and transplant onto little concrete mushrooms, to see if we can assist in the growth of coral reefs.
Coral spawning
Using nets to catch the eggs
Larvae attached to the "mushrooms"
Today it was time to put them in the water and hope they grow.It was a good dive, and due to the highly experimental nature of this project, I don't predict a high success rate, but trial and error can only improve it.
In the evening, after an exploratory night dive, we went to Muay Thai to see a few boxing matches, and then to bed.... super tired...
Day 74 - 18th April 2010
Today, we had a lay in, of sorts...
8am we got up to sort stuff out, go back to the clinic, have breakfast, washing etc. All the domestic chores that we have been too busy to do recently.
Then at 11.30 we left home to meet the afternoon boat. Jen was still taking antibiotics for her ear and today was the first time it felt slightly unblocked.!! So she joined me on the boat to do some snorkelling while I joined Nathan to film him on the reef check.
We had a long 77 minute dive studying the coral, and returned to the boat to head to the next dive site.
Since everyone else was too tired to dive again (I was the only one who wanted to go in!), I joined Jen for a snorkel and we hunted for the Eagle ray, but did not find it this time...
Upon our return, we zoomed home to get changed for Tina's birthday! We went to the bowling alley in the evening and spent the whole night drinking and bowling... it was a good turn out of about 30 people... Much fun was had.. (I shall post pics, if I can find some!)
In bed at midnight ish....
SD
8am we got up to sort stuff out, go back to the clinic, have breakfast, washing etc. All the domestic chores that we have been too busy to do recently.
Then at 11.30 we left home to meet the afternoon boat. Jen was still taking antibiotics for her ear and today was the first time it felt slightly unblocked.!! So she joined me on the boat to do some snorkelling while I joined Nathan to film him on the reef check.
We had a long 77 minute dive studying the coral, and returned to the boat to head to the next dive site.
Since everyone else was too tired to dive again (I was the only one who wanted to go in!), I joined Jen for a snorkel and we hunted for the Eagle ray, but did not find it this time...
Upon our return, we zoomed home to get changed for Tina's birthday! We went to the bowling alley in the evening and spent the whole night drinking and bowling... it was a good turn out of about 30 people... Much fun was had.. (I shall post pics, if I can find some!)
In bed at midnight ish....
SD
Sunday, 18 April 2010
Day 73 - 17th April 2010
Today, Jen and I woke up to head to Deep Down Productions, to continue teaching Andy about Documentaries..
After having takeaway brekkie, Jen went to Crystal, while I taxied Andy around to various points of the island so he could take some land based shots for his doco.
After a couple of hours of sweltering heat. Andy and I went to Crystal, to catch a longtail out to Mae Haad reef. Andy needed a shot of Collector Urchins... a pretty rare sight in Koh Tao... but luckily we had some inside information, and got the required shots..
After the dive, Jen and I went back to Deep Down Productions to pick up the laptop, and returned home, stopping back at Crystal for a couple of San Miguel lites..
Takeaway pizza, and a episode of Lost was our evening entertainment...! NICE!
SD
After having takeaway brekkie, Jen went to Crystal, while I taxied Andy around to various points of the island so he could take some land based shots for his doco.
After a couple of hours of sweltering heat. Andy and I went to Crystal, to catch a longtail out to Mae Haad reef. Andy needed a shot of Collector Urchins... a pretty rare sight in Koh Tao... but luckily we had some inside information, and got the required shots..
After the dive, Jen and I went back to Deep Down Productions to pick up the laptop, and returned home, stopping back at Crystal for a couple of San Miguel lites..
Takeaway pizza, and a episode of Lost was our evening entertainment...! NICE!
SD
Saturday, 17 April 2010
Day 72 - 16th April 2010
Today we started a Marine Resource Management course. It's a 5 day course and this morning we covered the following:
The Ecology and Biology of Coral Reef
The origin & characteristics of coral reefs
Differences Between Atlantic and Indo-Pacific Reefs
Coral Anatomy and Biology
In the afternoon, we went to 'Shark bay' to do quadrant surveys on the old Biorock. I didnt go in the water but sat on the rock for a couple of hours and waited. Once surveys were done, we headed back to Crystal to input the data onto a global database and then headed home, stopping onthe way for a takeaway.
I think it must be the heat as we were both feeling exhausted and ended up going to bed around 9pm
The Ecology and Biology of Coral Reef
The origin & characteristics of coral reefs
Differences Between Atlantic and Indo-Pacific Reefs
Coral Anatomy and Biology
In the afternoon, we went to 'Shark bay' to do quadrant surveys on the old Biorock. I didnt go in the water but sat on the rock for a couple of hours and waited. Once surveys were done, we headed back to Crystal to input the data onto a global database and then headed home, stopping onthe way for a takeaway.
I think it must be the heat as we were both feeling exhausted and ended up going to bed around 9pm
Day 71 - 15th April 2010
This morning both Si & I went to Deep Down Productions to meet Andrew, our guinea pig for Si's Underwater video documentary course.
We sat down and went through the course outline and talked about his treatment (what his documentary is going to be about) his first initial idea was sharks but due to the lack of sightings and limited timeframe we convinced him to think again, so changed to Symbiosis (Organisms that live together - Shimp & Goby) There are 3 types of Symbiosis
1. Parasitism – One organism derives nourishment from another causing harm (but not usually death) to the host.
2. Commensalism – One organism benefits from another causing no harm to the host organism.
3. Mutualism – Both organisms benefit from their association
Whilst the guys talked I ordered breakfast from 'Zest' (Coffee, Fried egg sandwiches) and then worked on the draft layout, schedule, tech requirements, taking notes on Andrews storyboard wants, needs and possible dive site location to capture these.
Breakfast arrived and we took a short break. We'd covered a lot and headed down to Crystal where we met Nathan who was going out on the longtail to 'Junk yard' dive site to move an anchor, just off of Mae Haad beach. As Andrew wanted shots of Decorators Urchins, it was an ideal opportunity to jump on the longtail to capture them. Half an hour later, the guy headed off on the Longtail with Nathan. Things being as they are, the boys ended up helping with the anchor and not getting much filming done, with Simon slicing 13 cuts into his hand grabbing a rope to save the boat capsizing, but getting barnacles like razor blades digging into his fingers.. No permanent damage.. In the meantime, I went for an awesome massage and met them on their return.
That evening we popped home to shower and headed back ito Crystal as there was a 'Snorkel Test' for the newly qualified Dive Masters, once the deed was done, we made a quick exit!
We sat down and went through the course outline and talked about his treatment (what his documentary is going to be about) his first initial idea was sharks but due to the lack of sightings and limited timeframe we convinced him to think again, so changed to Symbiosis (Organisms that live together - Shimp & Goby) There are 3 types of Symbiosis
1. Parasitism – One organism derives nourishment from another causing harm (but not usually death) to the host.
2. Commensalism – One organism benefits from another causing no harm to the host organism.
3. Mutualism – Both organisms benefit from their association
Whilst the guys talked I ordered breakfast from 'Zest' (Coffee, Fried egg sandwiches) and then worked on the draft layout, schedule, tech requirements, taking notes on Andrews storyboard wants, needs and possible dive site location to capture these.
Breakfast arrived and we took a short break. We'd covered a lot and headed down to Crystal where we met Nathan who was going out on the longtail to 'Junk yard' dive site to move an anchor, just off of Mae Haad beach. As Andrew wanted shots of Decorators Urchins, it was an ideal opportunity to jump on the longtail to capture them. Half an hour later, the guy headed off on the Longtail with Nathan. Things being as they are, the boys ended up helping with the anchor and not getting much filming done, with Simon slicing 13 cuts into his hand grabbing a rope to save the boat capsizing, but getting barnacles like razor blades digging into his fingers.. No permanent damage.. In the meantime, I went for an awesome massage and met them on their return.
That evening we popped home to shower and headed back ito Crystal as there was a 'Snorkel Test' for the newly qualified Dive Masters, once the deed was done, we made a quick exit!
Friday, 16 April 2010
Day 70 - 14th April 2010
Yet again Si was up ridiculously early and on the PC when I woke. I got up and made a cuppa and an egg sandwich.
The day was empty today so didnt have to do a thing. I got on with some washing and pottered about whilst Si was on the computer.
At some point we had to go to Mae Haad to collect the bike at Safety Stop after leaving it there (very wisely) after Song kran.
In the afternoon we watched 'End of the Line' a documentary about over fishing and then an episode of Eastenders before venturing out.
Down at Crystal we met a few people had a quick beer and then went to 'Pranees' for food and headed home.
It was a very quiet day after the events of Songkran...... thankfully.....!
The day was empty today so didnt have to do a thing. I got on with some washing and pottered about whilst Si was on the computer.
At some point we had to go to Mae Haad to collect the bike at Safety Stop after leaving it there (very wisely) after Song kran.
In the afternoon we watched 'End of the Line' a documentary about over fishing and then an episode of Eastenders before venturing out.
Down at Crystal we met a few people had a quick beer and then went to 'Pranees' for food and headed home.
It was a very quiet day after the events of Songkran...... thankfully.....!
Day 69 - 13th April 2010
Its Songkran!!! Basically a massive water fight on the island.
For the Thai's it's the traditional New Years day from 13 -15 April. Songkran falls in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season. Songkran was originally celebrated just in the North of Thailand but now it's spread across the whole country where in places it continues for 6 or more days but here in Koh Tao, it lasts 1 day.
Simon and I didnt go out until 2pm and on our journey into Mae Haad, we got absolutely soaked. Our first soaking was in Sairee where we had to stop at the cross roads, kids shot us with their water pistols and a couple of girls ran over with an iced bowl of water. So much for trying to stay dry.
There were taxi's (pickups) crammed full, travelling from one end of the island to the other, just firing water at everyone passing and when taxi's passed it was chaos :-D People on mopeds, bikes, foot armed up with supersoakers, such great fun.
Simon and I finally made it to Safety stop soaked to meet up with friends. After having a drink and standing in the entrance, soaking every dry person passing for an hour or so, we refilled our guns and a gang of us marched down to Crystal (2 mins walk away) to soak any dry person hanging around.
The Crystal taxi was headed back into Sairee, to 'Vibe' beach bar so we all piled in the back shooting as many people on the way.
At 'Vibe' a vast amount of soaked Crystal people were shooting each other, playing around in the sea and dancing along with the band that was playing. I just couldnt get over the warmth of the sea when I went to refil my supersoaker, it was like a bath. Thank goodness for Songkran ..just the way to cool down on a sweltering hot day..
Imagine the best water fight you've been in but having everyone in your village, town, city joining in.
We stayed at Vibe until 10pm and walked home for drying out and bed, while others partied the night away...!
For the Thai's it's the traditional New Years day from 13 -15 April. Songkran falls in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the dry season. Songkran was originally celebrated just in the North of Thailand but now it's spread across the whole country where in places it continues for 6 or more days but here in Koh Tao, it lasts 1 day.
Simon and I didnt go out until 2pm and on our journey into Mae Haad, we got absolutely soaked. Our first soaking was in Sairee where we had to stop at the cross roads, kids shot us with their water pistols and a couple of girls ran over with an iced bowl of water. So much for trying to stay dry.
There were taxi's (pickups) crammed full, travelling from one end of the island to the other, just firing water at everyone passing and when taxi's passed it was chaos :-D People on mopeds, bikes, foot armed up with supersoakers, such great fun.
Simon and I finally made it to Safety stop soaked to meet up with friends. After having a drink and standing in the entrance, soaking every dry person passing for an hour or so, we refilled our guns and a gang of us marched down to Crystal (2 mins walk away) to soak any dry person hanging around.
The Crystal taxi was headed back into Sairee, to 'Vibe' beach bar so we all piled in the back shooting as many people on the way.
At 'Vibe' a vast amount of soaked Crystal people were shooting each other, playing around in the sea and dancing along with the band that was playing. I just couldnt get over the warmth of the sea when I went to refil my supersoaker, it was like a bath. Thank goodness for Songkran ..just the way to cool down on a sweltering hot day..
Imagine the best water fight you've been in but having everyone in your village, town, city joining in.
We stayed at Vibe until 10pm and walked home for drying out and bed, while others partied the night away...!
Monday, 12 April 2010
Rocky Horror Footage
So, I finally got some footage from a drunken bum named John.
The video is below, 11 mins long... and not the greatest of quality due to the amount of booze John had consumed... but you'll be able to spot Mrs D in all her glory!
The video is below, 11 mins long... and not the greatest of quality due to the amount of booze John had consumed... but you'll be able to spot Mrs D in all her glory!
Day 68 - 12th April 2010
A day off !!!
After the Open water course, I was shattered last night.... although I was tired, I still woke up at the crack of dawn...DOH!
After watching the MotoGP from Qatar, I woke Jenny with a nice cup of tea and we went to Cafe Corner from some breakfast. After tasty grub, we went to Deep Down Productions to collect Jen's Nikon. It has been sitting there for a couple of weeks, and she wanted to take some photos of around the Crystal Dive office.
Reception Area
The Staff Room
The Kit Room
The Bar Area
We left Crystal, and went to the supermarket, for supplies, then returned home to wait for the delivery.
Later that evening we caught up with friend called Teresa. She has been unwell with Dengue Fever, and is just coming out the other side, and feeling much better. We had dinner with her, and then came back home to rest.
Jen has a bad chest, and her ear is now infected, so she is taking anti-biotics and hopefully will be good to go in the next few days.
SD
After the Open water course, I was shattered last night.... although I was tired, I still woke up at the crack of dawn...DOH!
After watching the MotoGP from Qatar, I woke Jenny with a nice cup of tea and we went to Cafe Corner from some breakfast. After tasty grub, we went to Deep Down Productions to collect Jen's Nikon. It has been sitting there for a couple of weeks, and she wanted to take some photos of around the Crystal Dive office.
Reception Area
The Staff Room
The Kit Room
The Bar Area
We left Crystal, and went to the supermarket, for supplies, then returned home to wait for the delivery.
Later that evening we caught up with friend called Teresa. She has been unwell with Dengue Fever, and is just coming out the other side, and feeling much better. We had dinner with her, and then came back home to rest.
Jen has a bad chest, and her ear is now infected, so she is taking anti-biotics and hopefully will be good to go in the next few days.
SD
Day 67 - 11th April 2010
Simon's students had a late start, 10am and I decided to go down to Crystal with him, hang around and go on the boat in the afternoon. As Si was doing a quick course with Liran, they were doing 3 short dives.
On the boat it was blistering hot and while Si was on dive 4, I decided to go for a snorkel to cool down. I borrowed a spare mask & fins and jumped in the water. Today, we'd been at 'Twins' and now we were at 'Japanese Gardens'. Probably around 5 minutes into my snorkel I spotted an Eagle ray and then another. I must have snorkelling along side them for at least 10 minutes and then they disappeared. Five minutes later I spotted another, just on it's own this time. I was looking for divers underneath me so I could point it out, but sods law, noone was around. It glided around me for ages until finally something must have scared it and zoomed off into the distance. Eagle rays are such graceful creatures and I hope they stay around for when I can get in the water with my camera.
After everyone was back on board, we headed back to land, dive kits washed & put away, we gathered at the bar and chatted. Si's Open Video wasnt on until 9pm, so we went to 'Safety Stop' for a Sunday roast. Si grabbed a spicy tofu burger.
After wolfing down the food and dashing back to Crystal, Si wanted to go home to bed as he was very tired.. The moment his head hit the pillow, he was out... Meanwhile, I watched an episode of 24.
On the boat it was blistering hot and while Si was on dive 4, I decided to go for a snorkel to cool down. I borrowed a spare mask & fins and jumped in the water. Today, we'd been at 'Twins' and now we were at 'Japanese Gardens'. Probably around 5 minutes into my snorkel I spotted an Eagle ray and then another. I must have snorkelling along side them for at least 10 minutes and then they disappeared. Five minutes later I spotted another, just on it's own this time. I was looking for divers underneath me so I could point it out, but sods law, noone was around. It glided around me for ages until finally something must have scared it and zoomed off into the distance. Eagle rays are such graceful creatures and I hope they stay around for when I can get in the water with my camera.
After everyone was back on board, we headed back to land, dive kits washed & put away, we gathered at the bar and chatted. Si's Open Video wasnt on until 9pm, so we went to 'Safety Stop' for a Sunday roast. Si grabbed a spicy tofu burger.
After wolfing down the food and dashing back to Crystal, Si wanted to go home to bed as he was very tired.. The moment his head hit the pillow, he was out... Meanwhile, I watched an episode of 24.
Sunday, 11 April 2010
Day 66 - 10th April 2010
Si left just before 9am and I fell fast asleep till about 10am. It's not much fun not diving and having very little to do, so I read through the Open Water knowledge reveiws/answers and then compiled all the confined/open water skills onto a spreadsheet from both courses that I have assisted on. Just to compare how they differ and how I can maximize the order to save time in the future when teaching.
Around midday I received a call from Jace at 'Deep Down' who needed the port for Si's handicam. I was sure it was already down there but he insisted it wasn't and said he'd pop down in 10mins or so. In the meantime, I searched everywhere, the port was nowhere to be seen, Si must have it still in his bag. I did try calling and texting him but as he was assisting with confined water it was unlikely he'd even hear his phone.
As Jace had difficulty in finding our house, I stood out on the road waiting for him with a cuppa tea in one hand and my phone in the other. Finally he arrived and parked up. I told him I couldnt find the port but he asked if he could borrow Si's Z1 as they had no HD camera's to work from. I carefully packed Si's pride & joy in a towel and carefully put it into Jace's rucksack and told him to look after it as if it were a baby else he'd have to answer to Si ;-) After a quick cuppa, he headed off.
Later, after washing up, I headed into Sairee for a late breakfast of Museli, fruit and yoghurt and then headed to the clinic to get my ears checked as one is still blocked and Im sick of hearing myself talk and eat. The nurse took a look in both ears and said that they're both super inflamed and gave me some ear drops to use 3-4 times a day. I'll just have to wait and see as to whether this helps.
After the clinic I treated myself (Si suggestion) to a foot massage (reflexology) Boy was it good, I could have spent the whole day in there. Then to my surprise, once she'd finished, she massaged my neck and shoulders for 10 mins or so which was sheer bliss :-D I'll certainly be going back there again. It amazes me that in the UK you'd pay at least £45+ for an hours massage and here it averages around £6 and is far superior.
After my treat I walked home, stopping on the way for water. Si should be back in the next hour, so I think I might watch some TV to pass the time.
Around midday I received a call from Jace at 'Deep Down' who needed the port for Si's handicam. I was sure it was already down there but he insisted it wasn't and said he'd pop down in 10mins or so. In the meantime, I searched everywhere, the port was nowhere to be seen, Si must have it still in his bag. I did try calling and texting him but as he was assisting with confined water it was unlikely he'd even hear his phone.
As Jace had difficulty in finding our house, I stood out on the road waiting for him with a cuppa tea in one hand and my phone in the other. Finally he arrived and parked up. I told him I couldnt find the port but he asked if he could borrow Si's Z1 as they had no HD camera's to work from. I carefully packed Si's pride & joy in a towel and carefully put it into Jace's rucksack and told him to look after it as if it were a baby else he'd have to answer to Si ;-) After a quick cuppa, he headed off.
Later, after washing up, I headed into Sairee for a late breakfast of Museli, fruit and yoghurt and then headed to the clinic to get my ears checked as one is still blocked and Im sick of hearing myself talk and eat. The nurse took a look in both ears and said that they're both super inflamed and gave me some ear drops to use 3-4 times a day. I'll just have to wait and see as to whether this helps.
After the clinic I treated myself (Si suggestion) to a foot massage (reflexology) Boy was it good, I could have spent the whole day in there. Then to my surprise, once she'd finished, she massaged my neck and shoulders for 10 mins or so which was sheer bliss :-D I'll certainly be going back there again. It amazes me that in the UK you'd pay at least £45+ for an hours massage and here it averages around £6 and is far superior.
After my treat I walked home, stopping on the way for water. Si should be back in the next hour, so I think I might watch some TV to pass the time.
Saturday, 10 April 2010
Bangkok Tension
I have been watching the news regarding Bangkok, and thought I might give you a general round up of the situation.
There are 2 main groups... The Red Shirts and Yellow Shirts.
Red shirts consist of mainly poor people, Yellow being the middle and upper class.
The red shirts are not happy with the current government and are protesting against it. This is now being met with increased force to contain, and reading BBC reports this morning of at least 18 dead and 800 hurt, it seems to be getting to a explosive peak.
The yellow shirts are the opposite, their protests in 2006, and 2008 brought a new coalition goverment to power, and to date they are happy.
There seems to be no real solution to this problem in Thailand because you have 2 completely opposite point of views.... I hope that they managed to come to some agreement peacefully...
I have no opinion of the situation, as I am a guest in the country and cannot understand fully the position of both sides..
SD
There are 2 main groups... The Red Shirts and Yellow Shirts.
Red shirts consist of mainly poor people, Yellow being the middle and upper class.
The red shirts are not happy with the current government and are protesting against it. This is now being met with increased force to contain, and reading BBC reports this morning of at least 18 dead and 800 hurt, it seems to be getting to a explosive peak.
The yellow shirts are the opposite, their protests in 2006, and 2008 brought a new coalition goverment to power, and to date they are happy.
There seems to be no real solution to this problem in Thailand because you have 2 completely opposite point of views.... I hope that they managed to come to some agreement peacefully...
I have no opinion of the situation, as I am a guest in the country and cannot understand fully the position of both sides..
SD
Day 65 - 9th April 2010
Thankfully the intense throbbing in my ear and jaw has stopped after dosing myself with anticongestion tablets and sleep. I haven't felt pain like that in a long time. That'll be the last time I struggle to descend on a dive.
Im staying at home today as I've Open Water paperwork to complete and Simon is team teaching an Open Water course with Liran, at 1.30pm.
Before leaving, Simon popped out and bought breakfast, Museli, yoghurt & fruit and a large cappucino. It was just what I fancied.
After Simon had left I cracked on with completing my Open Water student files and sorted out all our slates for Open/Confined & Rescue.
Later on, I watched an episode of Eastenders, just to cheer myself up and then by the time that had finished, Simon text to say that he was finished and grabbing a quick beer, then dropping into Deep Down to see John and then finally coming home.
That evening, we popped down to 'Vibe' for beer and to wish Justine (Dive Master) a Happy Birthday and then stopped at 'El Gringo's' for a take away.
Im staying at home today as I've Open Water paperwork to complete and Simon is team teaching an Open Water course with Liran, at 1.30pm.
Before leaving, Simon popped out and bought breakfast, Museli, yoghurt & fruit and a large cappucino. It was just what I fancied.
After Simon had left I cracked on with completing my Open Water student files and sorted out all our slates for Open/Confined & Rescue.
Later on, I watched an episode of Eastenders, just to cheer myself up and then by the time that had finished, Simon text to say that he was finished and grabbing a quick beer, then dropping into Deep Down to see John and then finally coming home.
That evening, we popped down to 'Vibe' for beer and to wish Justine (Dive Master) a Happy Birthday and then stopped at 'El Gringo's' for a take away.
Thursday, 8 April 2010
Day 64 - 8th April 2010
Today, was a day off.... so we went diving!
2 dives at Twins, with Jen using her camera... I got to play with it for 5 mins and have an encounter with a Triggerfish..
I have uploaded the raw footage so you can see how aggressive they can be.. (and this one is a small one!)
Plus, Jenny took some nice footage of a Porcupine Puffer Fish... bless.
At the end of the 2nd dive, Jen suffered with a "Reverse Block", which is trapped air in the sinuses... very painful.. We spent 15 minutes at 5 metres to try and ease it.. but to no avail.
She has taken some decongestion tablets and is resting in bed.. I doubt she will be diving for a day or 2...
Me, I start another Open Water Course tomorrow....
SD
2 dives at Twins, with Jen using her camera... I got to play with it for 5 mins and have an encounter with a Triggerfish..
I have uploaded the raw footage so you can see how aggressive they can be.. (and this one is a small one!)
Plus, Jenny took some nice footage of a Porcupine Puffer Fish... bless.
At the end of the 2nd dive, Jen suffered with a "Reverse Block", which is trapped air in the sinuses... very painful.. We spent 15 minutes at 5 metres to try and ease it.. but to no avail.
She has taken some decongestion tablets and is resting in bed.. I doubt she will be diving for a day or 2...
Me, I start another Open Water Course tomorrow....
SD
Wednesday, 7 April 2010
Sail Rock
Day 63 - 6th April 2010
Dives 3 & 4 - The visibility is brilliant today and and our first stop was 'White Rock'
After overseeing the students set up their equipment, Laura did the briefing. Tom, who was a bit freaked yesterday decided that he wanted to have another go and jumped in with Laura. I would have thought that with the visibility being so good that it would have helped with his feeling of claustrophobia ..but as soon as he popped his head in the water to look down, he was sure he didnt want to continue. I really take my hat off to him as he really tried but it just wasn't to be.
Once in the water there was an abundance of fish, students seemed to have improved no end on their buoyancy and completed all the required skills without any problems at all. Everyone came up with massive smiles on their faces and said the dive was amazing.
Dive 4 - I briefed the students, only a couple of skills to complete, mask removal and a hover.
Conditions were good and the students kept in their buddy teams really well. The rest of the dive was just a leisurely jaunt around 'Twins' which was most enjoyable.
Back on the boat, we filled in log books and the students were really happy to have completed the course of which nearly all of them signed up for their advanced.
Later in the afternoon after I'd completed all the paper work for the students temporary cards, I met Alex, the chap who freaked in the confined session and spent an hour or so in the sea, just trying to get him comfortable breathing for long periods underwater. Eventually he felt comfortable to do the confined skills session in pool which took me over an hour to do but at least he was feeling more confident within himself. Hopefully he'll join another group on the their dives 1 & 2.
That evening we popped back home for an hours sleep, showered and then went to Dirty Nellys for the students video which was really good. After the video we hoped on the bike and headed to 'Vibe' for a bbq and charity auction for one of the instructors who'd had a motorcyle accident.
We left around 11 as we were both pretty shattered...
That evening
After overseeing the students set up their equipment, Laura did the briefing. Tom, who was a bit freaked yesterday decided that he wanted to have another go and jumped in with Laura. I would have thought that with the visibility being so good that it would have helped with his feeling of claustrophobia ..but as soon as he popped his head in the water to look down, he was sure he didnt want to continue. I really take my hat off to him as he really tried but it just wasn't to be.
Once in the water there was an abundance of fish, students seemed to have improved no end on their buoyancy and completed all the required skills without any problems at all. Everyone came up with massive smiles on their faces and said the dive was amazing.
Dive 4 - I briefed the students, only a couple of skills to complete, mask removal and a hover.
Conditions were good and the students kept in their buddy teams really well. The rest of the dive was just a leisurely jaunt around 'Twins' which was most enjoyable.
Back on the boat, we filled in log books and the students were really happy to have completed the course of which nearly all of them signed up for their advanced.
Later in the afternoon after I'd completed all the paper work for the students temporary cards, I met Alex, the chap who freaked in the confined session and spent an hour or so in the sea, just trying to get him comfortable breathing for long periods underwater. Eventually he felt comfortable to do the confined skills session in pool which took me over an hour to do but at least he was feeling more confident within himself. Hopefully he'll join another group on the their dives 1 & 2.
That evening we popped back home for an hours sleep, showered and then went to Dirty Nellys for the students video which was really good. After the video we hoped on the bike and headed to 'Vibe' for a bbq and charity auction for one of the instructors who'd had a motorcyle accident.
We left around 11 as we were both pretty shattered...
That evening
Day 62 - 5th April 2010 (Jenny)
With the Final exam completed and dive bags ready we all headed out for dive 1, 'Mango Bay'. With everyone in the water we did a short surface swim into the shallows where we made our descent. One guy really didn't feel comfortable and on our descent, kept on bolting to the surface after a short chat he slowly came down and joined the rest of the group which were in the shallow doing skills.
For the students first dive, they did pretty well, it's really hard to find your buoyancy especially when you are used to immediate reactions. The chap who bolted on the first dive decided not to join us on the 2nd dive at 'Japaneze Gardens' and stayed on the boat.
The rest of the students had a really good dive and completed the necessary skills ..even from dive one you can see an improvement.
Back on the boat we filled in log books and discussed fish that we'd seen.
Tomorrow, we're meeting at 7am for the early morning boat
For the students first dive, they did pretty well, it's really hard to find your buoyancy especially when you are used to immediate reactions. The chap who bolted on the first dive decided not to join us on the 2nd dive at 'Japaneze Gardens' and stayed on the boat.
The rest of the students had a really good dive and completed the necessary skills ..even from dive one you can see an improvement.
Back on the boat we filled in log books and discussed fish that we'd seen.
Tomorrow, we're meeting at 7am for the early morning boat
Day 61 - 4th April 2010 (Jenny)
Yesterday I started team teaching my 2nd Open Water Course with Laura. Due to the influx of people from the Full Moon party on Koh Phangang its super busy with just under 40 new students starting their Open Water. As Crystal have only 4 classrooms and students were bundled together for the acacdemics portion of the course and then split into groups of 8 for the confined/open water section of the course.
I was responsible for reviewing chapter 3 with the students after they'd watched the video. I was pretty nervous as I'd not stood up infront of a large group for quite some time but it went pretty well considering it had been a long day and I could tell the students were tired.
Today the students met at 9am watched & completed the last 2 chapters of the Open Water Manual they were then split into small groups of 8, ready for the confined water in the afternoon.
After 5 equipment set ups we finally got in the pool. Laura and I took it in turn to demonstrate skills and all was going well until one of the chaps decided that he couldn't continue as he felt dizzy, couldnt get his head around breathing underwater and sat by the pool for the rest of the session just breathing through the regulator.
Anyway, a few hours later, the remaining 7 students had completed their confined water section.
Tomorrow they got their final exam and Open water dives 1 & 2 which I could tell they were very excited about.
Jen
x
I was responsible for reviewing chapter 3 with the students after they'd watched the video. I was pretty nervous as I'd not stood up infront of a large group for quite some time but it went pretty well considering it had been a long day and I could tell the students were tired.
Today the students met at 9am watched & completed the last 2 chapters of the Open Water Manual they were then split into small groups of 8, ready for the confined water in the afternoon.
After 5 equipment set ups we finally got in the pool. Laura and I took it in turn to demonstrate skills and all was going well until one of the chaps decided that he couldn't continue as he felt dizzy, couldnt get his head around breathing underwater and sat by the pool for the rest of the session just breathing through the regulator.
Anyway, a few hours later, the remaining 7 students had completed their confined water section.
Tomorrow they got their final exam and Open water dives 1 & 2 which I could tell they were very excited about.
Jen
x
Tuesday, 6 April 2010
Open Water Course No.1 (Simon) Part 4
The final part... (see the guy jumping off the boat, almost killing himself!)
Monday, 5 April 2010
Sunday, 4 April 2010
Open Water Course No.1 (Simon)
Here is the video of my 1st Open Water Course.!!!
Its in 4 parts of 8 minutes each... so grab a cuppa... and chill...
Many thanks again, to Justine from Deep Down Productions...
Its in 4 parts of 8 minutes each... so grab a cuppa... and chill...
Many thanks again, to Justine from Deep Down Productions...
Jens Fishies
Jen had a couple of fun dives last week and took her housing out to capture some underwater life..
See below..... looks like I have some competition!!!
See below..... looks like I have some competition!!!
Saturday, 3 April 2010
Day 60 - 3rd April 2010
Up early (surprise, surprise!), and down to the dive school, where Jen was continuing her Open Water Course.
I arranged to start 2 students on an Adventure Diver course for the next day while Jen taught her students in the pool. Then Tina had issues with her Rescue Course (she had no-one to play the "victim") so since I was not too busy, I jumped in and helped her for the afternoon.
Jen and I both finished relatively at the same time, and had a couple of beers before going home for an early night... We both fell asleep, 5 mins after laying in bed watching a bit of TV...
SD
I arranged to start 2 students on an Adventure Diver course for the next day while Jen taught her students in the pool. Then Tina had issues with her Rescue Course (she had no-one to play the "victim") so since I was not too busy, I jumped in and helped her for the afternoon.
Jen and I both finished relatively at the same time, and had a couple of beers before going home for an early night... We both fell asleep, 5 mins after laying in bed watching a bit of TV...
SD
Friday, 2 April 2010
Pin Up of the Month
So finally, we have 3 candidates for you to peruse.
Our 1st contestant, from Finland is Katti..
She enjoys laying on sunny beaches, drinking cups of coffee and eco projects. As an qualified instructor... she is able to teach but cannot be bothered. She regards hersef as a bossy character, who likes to crack a whip in and out of the bedroom! She hopes for world peace and love of all animals.
Contestant No.2, hailing from Calgary, Canada is Tina. Also a qualified instructor, her favorite food is German sausages. She also sleeps without pillows, as she brings her own to bed! She hopes for more money and less ear infections. She hates the photo below, so it may be replaced in the coming week.
And finally, the dregs of the barrel, contestant No. 3 is Justine, from some weird island in Scotland. She works as a videographer, and enjoys all types of Italian meals... Salami being one of her most tasty meats. She has a love/hate relationship with Simon and has a lot of bruising as a result! She hopes to never be electrocuted by the boat again.
So get voting folks, the winner will get a very small beer as the 1st prize.! You have until the end of the month!
Our 1st contestant, from Finland is Katti..
She enjoys laying on sunny beaches, drinking cups of coffee and eco projects. As an qualified instructor... she is able to teach but cannot be bothered. She regards hersef as a bossy character, who likes to crack a whip in and out of the bedroom! She hopes for world peace and love of all animals.
Contestant No.2, hailing from Calgary, Canada is Tina. Also a qualified instructor, her favorite food is German sausages. She also sleeps without pillows, as she brings her own to bed! She hopes for more money and less ear infections. She hates the photo below, so it may be replaced in the coming week.
And finally, the dregs of the barrel, contestant No. 3 is Justine, from some weird island in Scotland. She works as a videographer, and enjoys all types of Italian meals... Salami being one of her most tasty meats. She has a love/hate relationship with Simon and has a lot of bruising as a result! She hopes to never be electrocuted by the boat again.
So get voting folks, the winner will get a very small beer as the 1st prize.! You have until the end of the month!
Day 59 - 2nd April 2010
Up early (AGAIN!) for the final 2 dives of my 1st Open Water Course, team teaching with Fred.
I met the tired students at the dive centre, and had the Divemaster Trainee pack their bags while I sipped a cup of coffee..
When the videographer turned up, we took our bags to the boat, set up our kit and briefed for the 1st dive to Chumphon Pinnacle.... Due to Chumphon being a deep dive site, we decided to move the remainder of their skills to Dive 4.
They all did very well, controlling their buoyancy and following me... sometimes I find it very difficult swimming backwards for nearly 45 mins, and being aware of where i am going!. They enjoyed the dive immensely, seeing some larger forms of life etc.
Next dive, we dropped down to Buoyancy World for skills, mask removals, fin pivots, hovering, and navigation, then Fred returned to the boat and I continued with with dive.
All done, they were now certified (after I filled out paperwork for 2 hours!)...
They all finished the video with a shot jumping from the top of the boat... this was where we almost had a big problem. The 1st guy who jumped in slipped as he jumped, rammed his foot on the top of the boat and went into the sea missing the boat by inches! I was extremely concerned... But he popped up, and besides some bruising to his foot, he was okay... It could have been so much worse... (Video to follow!)
We returned and I went back home to sort our laundry out, while Jen started an Open Water Course (academics)...
In the evening, once Jen was finished, we watched the Open Water video, and then returned home for an early night. Jen was particularly deflated by her day.. She is teaching academics to a class of 18.! A bit of backchat from students, and general confidence issues from Jen had her feeling very low... But a bit of focus, and she is back on top cracking the whip.!
I met the tired students at the dive centre, and had the Divemaster Trainee pack their bags while I sipped a cup of coffee..
When the videographer turned up, we took our bags to the boat, set up our kit and briefed for the 1st dive to Chumphon Pinnacle.... Due to Chumphon being a deep dive site, we decided to move the remainder of their skills to Dive 4.
They all did very well, controlling their buoyancy and following me... sometimes I find it very difficult swimming backwards for nearly 45 mins, and being aware of where i am going!. They enjoyed the dive immensely, seeing some larger forms of life etc.
Next dive, we dropped down to Buoyancy World for skills, mask removals, fin pivots, hovering, and navigation, then Fred returned to the boat and I continued with with dive.
All done, they were now certified (after I filled out paperwork for 2 hours!)...
They all finished the video with a shot jumping from the top of the boat... this was where we almost had a big problem. The 1st guy who jumped in slipped as he jumped, rammed his foot on the top of the boat and went into the sea missing the boat by inches! I was extremely concerned... But he popped up, and besides some bruising to his foot, he was okay... It could have been so much worse... (Video to follow!)
We returned and I went back home to sort our laundry out, while Jen started an Open Water Course (academics)...
In the evening, once Jen was finished, we watched the Open Water video, and then returned home for an early night. Jen was particularly deflated by her day.. She is teaching academics to a class of 18.! A bit of backchat from students, and general confidence issues from Jen had her feeling very low... But a bit of focus, and she is back on top cracking the whip.!
Day 58 - 1 April 2010
Today I was supposed to start Team teaching but it was put back a day so I put myself on the afternoon boat for a fun dive. Luckily enough, Simon was doing the Open Water exam with his students and swim test and was then also on afternoon boat doing open waters dives 1 & 2 YAY!
On the boat I was talking about last years trip and mentioned that it was just typical that as soon as we left koh Tao, Whale Shark were being spotted nearly every day, then I looked up and just shouted WHALE!!!!!! .I'd spotted two Bryde's whales 150mtrs from the boat ...there was a wave of excitement and the boat changed direction heading towards them. People were kitting up and ready to jump in, especially the videographer group on the boat but the whales changed directions several times, once surfacing just infront of the boat which was amazing and then headed out to, so be abandoned the chase and continued onto 'Twin' dive site.
I was so happy to have spotted them and on the first fun dive kept on checking the deep, just on the off chance that I might see them again. That would have been amazing.
The Dive itself was great, a few of us decided to go and look for the Secret Pinnacle and managed to find it with some vague directions from one of the Instructors. It made a nice change and obviously there was no one else there. On the way back to the boat I found a 0.8kg weight and some rubbish so just stuffed that in my pocket.
The 2nd dive was a 'Japanese Gardens' a very relaxed and cool dive. I spotted a tiny baby sweetlips and saw the resident eagle ray a couple of times. Humphrey, the resident Trigger Fish was about but seemed to be pretty chilled. I also found another weight! A day of finding things!
On dry land, kit washed and packed away I met Si in the bar and we grabbed a coke and chatted about the days events.
Later in the evening it was the IE party (newly passed instructors) so we went to Dirty Nelly's to have a beer to congratulate everyone and then headed home for an earlish night! It had been a long day and we were both very tired....
Jen
On the boat I was talking about last years trip and mentioned that it was just typical that as soon as we left koh Tao, Whale Shark were being spotted nearly every day, then I looked up and just shouted WHALE!!!!!! .I'd spotted two Bryde's whales 150mtrs from the boat ...there was a wave of excitement and the boat changed direction heading towards them. People were kitting up and ready to jump in, especially the videographer group on the boat but the whales changed directions several times, once surfacing just infront of the boat which was amazing and then headed out to, so be abandoned the chase and continued onto 'Twin' dive site.
I was so happy to have spotted them and on the first fun dive kept on checking the deep, just on the off chance that I might see them again. That would have been amazing.
The Dive itself was great, a few of us decided to go and look for the Secret Pinnacle and managed to find it with some vague directions from one of the Instructors. It made a nice change and obviously there was no one else there. On the way back to the boat I found a 0.8kg weight and some rubbish so just stuffed that in my pocket.
The 2nd dive was a 'Japanese Gardens' a very relaxed and cool dive. I spotted a tiny baby sweetlips and saw the resident eagle ray a couple of times. Humphrey, the resident Trigger Fish was about but seemed to be pretty chilled. I also found another weight! A day of finding things!
On dry land, kit washed and packed away I met Si in the bar and we grabbed a coke and chatted about the days events.
Later in the evening it was the IE party (newly passed instructors) so we went to Dirty Nelly's to have a beer to congratulate everyone and then headed home for an earlish night! It had been a long day and we were both very tired....
Jen
Day 57 - 31st March 2010
Simon has academics this morning so I booked myself the morning dive boat. We got down to Crystal around 6.45am and I got my dive kit whilst Simon got my underwater housing & camera ready.
I dove with Katti today, she too had her camera and had a couple of really nice relaxed divesl. One at 'White Rock' and the second dive at 'Japaneze Gardens' The visibility was much better today which I was really please at. We both managed to get some really good footage of a porcupine puffer, moray eel and a huge starry puffa. Unfortunately we didn't find the Eagle ray which has been hanging around in Japanese Gardens but felt satisfied with what we saw.
On dry land I bumped into Si, his class had just broken for lunch which was perfect timing, so I ordered a delivery from 'Zest' for two fried egg sandwiches with lots of HP sauce on wholewheat baguette and we caught up on our mornings activities.
After lunch, Si was doing confined water with his group, so I dried off my housing and walked up to 'Deep Down' to drop it off and bumped into Katti. We then decided to treat ourselves to a Thai massage which I really needed as my back has been niggly ..an hour later, feeling relaxed and knot free I walked back to Crystal and read for a while and had the odd visit from a dripping wet Simon when they broke for their loo breaks.
There were a couple of Open Water video's and a film by one of 'Deep Downs' videographer students who's just completed the course which we had to stay for as there was going to be a presentation and they wanted Simon in the photo. Si's in so much demand.
On the way home we came across an accident, a woman laying in the middle of the road unconscious with blood everywhere. Didnt really know whether to go and help as the majority of people who had stopped were Thai and seemed to have everything in hand. Hopefully she will make a full recovery....
Takeaway food, and an early night!
I dove with Katti today, she too had her camera and had a couple of really nice relaxed divesl. One at 'White Rock' and the second dive at 'Japaneze Gardens' The visibility was much better today which I was really please at. We both managed to get some really good footage of a porcupine puffer, moray eel and a huge starry puffa. Unfortunately we didn't find the Eagle ray which has been hanging around in Japanese Gardens but felt satisfied with what we saw.
On dry land I bumped into Si, his class had just broken for lunch which was perfect timing, so I ordered a delivery from 'Zest' for two fried egg sandwiches with lots of HP sauce on wholewheat baguette and we caught up on our mornings activities.
After lunch, Si was doing confined water with his group, so I dried off my housing and walked up to 'Deep Down' to drop it off and bumped into Katti. We then decided to treat ourselves to a Thai massage which I really needed as my back has been niggly ..an hour later, feeling relaxed and knot free I walked back to Crystal and read for a while and had the odd visit from a dripping wet Simon when they broke for their loo breaks.
There were a couple of Open Water video's and a film by one of 'Deep Downs' videographer students who's just completed the course which we had to stay for as there was going to be a presentation and they wanted Simon in the photo. Si's in so much demand.
On the way home we came across an accident, a woman laying in the middle of the road unconscious with blood everywhere. Didnt really know whether to go and help as the majority of people who had stopped were Thai and seemed to have everything in hand. Hopefully she will make a full recovery....
Takeaway food, and an early night!
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