News
Lovin’ Saint Lucia: Kids and Critters (Part 2)
Whilst we have been lucky enough to dive in much of the Caribbean, Saint Lucia was still on our wish list. Until November when we got a chance to visit this beautiful island on a 6-night diving trip that would see us enjoy with incredible scenery both above and below the waves. We were able to sample three different hotels, dined at a host of local eateries, spoke to local school kids about the ocean and even took a tour into the rainforest canopy. Find out all about this trip over this series of three blogs on Scubaverse.
After our first two days of diving in the south of the island, below the magnificent Piton mountains, it was time for a day off. Usually we would pack in a much diving as possible on a short trip like this, we had been invited to speak at a local school. Our hotel, Bay Gardens Beach Hotel and Spa, already support the school with a breakfast club to ensure the kids start the day with a good meal. They asked us if we might go and speak about the ocean, marine life, conservation and our work. As the school did not have a room big enough to hold all the kids, we setup in the local church. The kids filed in and sat in rows of pews and we chatted about the marine life that can be found both in the waters surrounding Saint Lucia and further afield. Their knowledge of shark species was incredible! They even identified a Basking Shark correctly! We were stunned when they presented us with a huge box of local fruits they had picked from their gardens as a thank you. Our driver then took us for a drive around the north of the island to show us some of the plentiful beauty spots.
Back diving again, we still headed south, but to sample some different diving from our first two days. We were delighted to dive over a healthy seagrass bed that was home to a host of marine life. Snake eels skimmed along through the blades of grass, flounder lay camouflaged, and several species of crustacean could be found once you got your eye in. A huge Southern Stingray lay buried in the sand and our guide, Mervin, was delighted to find a seahorse (that did not want to be photographed). Dotted throughout the seagrass bed, coral bommies were a haven for small marine life critters. Eels and lobster hid in the crevices, while small juvenile fish darted through the coral and sponges.
Whilst we were on an all-inclusive basis at our hotels, we love to get out and about to try local establishments where we can. So each evening we would take a stroll to the waterfront to sample some excellent food and a local beer or cocktail, whilst watching the sun go down. The perfect way to finish off a great day of diving.
Nick and Caroline were hosted by:
The DEMA Show offers many opportunities for dive leaders and dive center owners to organize and plan their coming year’s activities by taking advantage of unprecedented deals from the industry. Based on the popularity and success from the DEMA Show 2023, Professional Scuba Schools will once again offer an instructor crossovers at its booth #6180 during DEMA Show 2024.
There will be two available sessions each day, one starting at 10:30AM and 3:30PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of the Show. There is no charge for the crossover, but a $75 registration fee will apply that covers instructor dues through December 31, 2025!
Crossover candidates must provide proof of active teaching status with an RSTC recognized agency and verification of a current (within last 12 months) physical. Those who do not have proof can still attend the crossover, but additional requirement and delays in completing the crossover may apply. In addition to attending the booth session, crossover candidates must complete all e-Learning requirements before certifications will be issued.
Take advantage of this offer, and start your instructor crossover at DEMA Show 2024, by simply completing the required pre-registration at https://www.pssworldwide.org/en/registrazionexOver.aspx?lang=en and selecting your DEMA Show Booth Crossover day and time. A Professional Scuba Schools Course Director will then contact you to explain the next steps. You can also register at the PSS DEMA Show booth #6180 but space is limited each day, so you are strongly encouraged to register today! Last year all slots were filled via pre-registration, so don’t delay.
To find out more about joining the PSS Evolution email pssnorthamerica@pssmail.org or call 813-344-2868.
Dive Leaders and Dive Center owners who are attending the DEMA Show 2024 should make sure to stop by the PSS Worldwide booth #6180 to learn more about the benefits of PSS affiliation!
Nestled deep within the jungle of Quintana Roo, Mexico, lies Cenote El Pit, a hidden natural wonder that captivates adventurers, especially those with a love for diving. Known for its striking depth, crystalline waters, and surreal geological formations, Cenote El Pit is more than just a hole in the ground—it’s a portal to an otherworldly underwater realm.
Located within the famous Sac Actun cave system, just a short drive from Tulum, El Pit offers a thrilling experience for divers and nature enthusiasts alike. Its towering walls, pristine water clarity, and mesmerizing light effects make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Yucatan Peninsula’s cenote-rich landscape.
What makes Cenote El Pit unique?
Cenote El Pit is one of the deepest cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, plunging over 120 meters (393 feet) into the earth. Unlike other cenotes which are open and wide, El Pit has a more cavernous vertical drop that gives the impression of plunging straight into the earth’s core.
Located just a short distance from Tulum, this cenote is surrounded by dense jungle providing a sense of adventure even before you enter the water. Below the surface, crystal-clear water allows the light beams to pierce through letting you see the unique underwater formations.
Why you should dive Cenote El Pit?
For those passionate about diving, Cenote El Pit is one of the most exciting and visually captivating cenotes in Mexico. Here’s why:
1. Incredible Depth and Visibility: The water visibility is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, allowing divers to see deep into the cenote’s vertical shaft. The clarity provides an almost dreamlike sensation as you descend into the depths surrounded by shades of blue and green.
2. Spectacular Light Shows: A very famous feature of Cenote El Pits is the way the sunlight penetrates the cenote. During the middle of the day, when the sun is directly overhead, its rays cut through the water creating a natural laser-show effect. Divers can witness these light beams illuminating the underwater formations and halocline layers.
3. Halocline Phenomenon: El Pit is famous for its halocline. This is where freshwater meets saltwater at a certain depth, creating a blurry shimmering effect in the water. When passing through the halocline, the water becomes clouded, almost like swimming through a layer of fog, only to clear up again as you ascend or descend beyond it.
4. Hydrogen Sulfide Cloud: At around 30 meters, divers encounter a thick, eerie layer of hydrogen sulfide that forms a milky cloud at the bottom of the cenote. This cloud is formed by the natural decomposition of organic matter and creates a mystical, fog-like layer. As you descend into this cloud, it feels like you’re diving into another world, with the forest of dead branches and tree roots adding an extra touch of otherworldliness.
5. Stalactites and Stalagmites: The walls of Cenote El Pit are adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, ancient formations that hint at the cenote’s history when it was once a dry cave. These formations, created over thousands of years, offer a glimpse into the geological past and add an element of exploration as divers navigate through the cavern’s intricate landscape.
6. Peaceful and Pristine Environment: Unlike some of the more popular cenotes that can become crowded with swimmers and tourists, Cenote El Pit retains a more secluded and tranquil ambiance. Its remote location and the challenge of access—often only via dirt roads—mean it’s mostly visited by dedicated divers. This makes for a serene and immersive experience, where you can truly appreciate the silence of the underwater world.
Practical Considerations for Diving in Cenote El Pit
Cenote El Pit is suitable for both intermediate and advanced divers. For those interested in cave diving, additional certification is required. Following local regulations, we recommend that divers first explore a more accessible cenote before diving in El Pit. This ensures both safety and an optimal experience for our guests.
You can dive at El Pit all year round! Pro Dive International provides guided diving tours with experienced instructors.
Contact Pro Dive International now to book your dive or request more information!
Cenote El Pit stands out as one of the most unique and stunning cenotes in Mexico, especially for divers seeking an extraordinary experience. Its combination of crystal-clear water, incredible depth, natural light displays, and geological formations creates a magical and mystical environment unlike anywhere else in the world. Whether you’re looking to explore the mysterious halocline layers or marvel at the sheer beauty of the underwater cathedral of light, diving in Cenote El Pit is guaranteed to be an unforgettable adventure.
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