Flower Gardens

[Rockhound76]

DO NOT take a newly certifiied child to the Flower Gardens. I took my 16yr. old over the summer, but he had nearly a 100 boat dives, some in rough conditions, before the trip. He did fine, but it was very challenging for us both and I've been out there dozens of times.

That said, I'm going back in a few weeks. Woohoo. One more time before the pause until the sharks come in.

When I was a teen diver, my first openwater trips were to Key Largo. That's the ticket. Long, shallow dives, great viz and lots to see.

Note: To go to the Gardens, plan on at least $500pp. Besides the Fling, there are a few day boats that make the run, but those are fast and furious runs in open boats.

[Hugh McPherson]

A great live-aboard 3 or 7 day trip for Texans. I agree with Larry; it is strictly bluewater diving and you are totally responsible for your dives (no divemasters there to lead you). Cozumel, Cancun or Florida would work.