Events | FinLifeDiving.com

May 25 - 29, 2019

Truth Aquatics

Overview
FAQ

Dive the kelp forests of the Channel Islands

Diving in kelp is like moving through a lush forest with plants growing more than 120 feet high. This rare aquatic ecosystems is home to more than 800 species of marine life. We'll start in the Southern Channel Islands at San Clemente, then dive the Northern Channel Islands on our way back to Santa Barbara.

San Clemente is the southernmost Channel Island and boasts world-class conditions. At San Clemente you will find pristine kelp forests, steep drop-offs, all while enjoying some of the warmest, clearest waters California has to offer. Located 55 nautical miles south of Long Beach, San Clemente gives divers the chance to catch a glimpse of pelagic species such as yellowtail, barracuda, and tuna.

San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, and Anacapa Islands comprise the northern chain of the Channel Islands, situated approximately three hours off the coast of Santa Barbara. The islands accommodate some of the densest kelp forests in the world.

Common sights while diving in the lush kelp beds include Garibaldi’s, giant black sea bass, seals and sea lions, bat rays, spanish shawl, sea hares, lobsters, sheepshead, senorita, blacksmith, opaleye, halfmoon, and giant kelp fish.

We'll limit this to ~23 divers (boat holds 40) so we have room to spread out. May 27 is Memorial Day. Board the boat in the evening on Saturday May 25. Dive May 26, 27, 28, and 29. The last dive is ~ 2 pm on Wednesday the 29th, and we return to dock ~ 5 pm. Fly to Santa Barbara (SBA) or drive.

Trip Includes

4 nights on boat
4 days of diving
All meals

Trip Excludes

Airfare, tips, gear (available for rent)
Tanks and weights
Airport transfers
Nitrox
Trip cancellation and dive insurance
Alcohol is BYOB

Diving

Dives/day: about 4 dives/day (fewer on the last day)

Nitrox: Nitrox available $6 per fill or you can buy a 20-fill card for $100.

Expected water temp: low to mid 60's

Expected viz: Visibility can range from 40 to 100 feet and on rare occasions sometimes even up to 150 feet.

The viz can be impacted by storms, but the storm season should be over by mid April. The southern islands in May are less affected by storms than the northern ones and, if conditions are good, viz is fantastic (80-100+ ft). If conditions are bad (whichis possible but unlikely at the end of May) it may be around 10-20 ft viz. Plankton boom, if they occur, happen more during summer months when water temp rises.

Tanks, weights: Available for rent, Steel Tank - 85 cf. or 95 cf for $12/day

Other gear: The SEA Landing Dive Center, where the boat is located, is fully equipped with scuba diving equipment available for rent for the duration of your trip.

Dive guides: Dives are not guided. Dive in buddy teams.

Expected diving:

Nearest hyperbaric chamber:

Boat

Style/Comfort: Basic but comfortable. Its about the diving!

Alcohol: BYOB

Food: Meals included

Linens: Blankets and pillows are provided, however it is recommended to bring a sleeping bag.

Towels: Bring your own towels!

External Communication:

Elecricity: 110 V

Logistics

Airport: SBA, Santa Barbara

Flights: NOT INCLUDED.

Getting here, Saturday May 25th:

Board in the afternoon/evening. Depart at 10 pm.

Money

Terms

Initial deposit $100
Balance due February 25, 2019
Non-refundable, unless cancelled spot is booked by another person

Travel insurance: We strongly recommend travel insurance. The guest or their insurance must shoulder the costs of cancellations, losses and disruptions caused by reasons outside of the Dive Operator’s control or responsibility. This includes but is not limited to: inclement weather, health problems, family emergencies, lost luggage, cancelled or postponed flights (including those we book for them) and any other unforeseen reasons that can change travel plans and/or cause financial losses. This is available several places, including DAN, Dive Assure, and www.csatravelpro.com.

Dive insurance: Required.

Airfare: Not included

Other fees:

How settle bill for on board expenses:

Tipping: Paid in cash. Note: sometimes the ATM at the dive center runs out of money. If you feel the service was exceptional, a 15%, or $20 per person per day, gratuity is appropriate.

Before you go

Bring: Cert cards (including Nitrox)!

Forms:

Passport: Please ensure your passport is valid at least six months after your return date to the US.

Miscellaneous

Caveat: The dives are subject to the current and weather conditions that day, and can be changed at the Captain’s discretion.

South Channel Islands May 25-29, 2019

May 25 - 29, 2019

Truth Aquatics