Opinions wanted

[LSUkiter]

I'm definitely going to do a little more research as to who to go out with. I called subtropic and they were exceptionally helpful and great, but because of my recent lack of diving, they require I take a refresher course and go with a divemaster. I have absolutely no problem diving with a divemaster for the minimal extra price($30). I actually think its a benefit as I'll be diving alone on what sounds like an advanced dive, and it's nice to know my buddy would be a DM and not some random dude that doesn't watch my back. Plus I'll be taking pictures and it would be nice to basically get a guided tour of the wreck. The requirement of a refresher course is a little excessive I feel though. I completely understand that their goal 100% is safety, but I think its a little much. I was certified about 15 years ago and advanced OW certified 12 years ago. Since then I have about 50 dives to 60 dives. I also took a refresher course 2 years ago because I was going on a trip out of the country and didn't want to be surprised by being told I couldn't dive at the resort. The concern that subtropic had was that I haven't had any dives deeper than 65-70 feet in about 4 years. Most of my dives have been about 50-60 lately, simply due to the location. I again understand their concern for safety but feel as though I have enough experience to safely dive guided by a divemaster without also having to take a refresher course there.
I actually considered just going on one of the shallow reef dives instead to avoid the whole headache, but I think I'll be disapointed.

[ricki]

You might talk to Atlantis and see what they have to say if you could fit a dive in on the Speigel Grove first. That would give you one or more recent dives on your log book. That may or may not alter Subtropics perspective. They run a ton of divers out there, know the wreck and conditions well. They have to place the line somewhere. Sorry for the hassle but ultimately they are trying to look out for the security of everyone.

[LSUkiter]

I may do that. I definitely agree with and understand their position on safety, and its nice to see a company stand by their decisions, but their requirements seem much higher than the other companies. I'll let you know who I choose to go with and how it goes.