Key Largo/Islamorada Dive Op Recommendations.

[hul kogan]

I'll be back down in the Keys for another stint next month and I'm looking to hone in on a dive op. Normally when I'm down in the Keys I dive from a private vessel, but unfortunately, this time I'll be on my own. So that means I'll need to hook up with a dive op.

The only one I've ever dove with is Horizon Divers. They were great, but since I'll be by myself, I don't want to pay for a dive guide. From what I've heard with most of the ops, you're pretty much on your own once the boat is moored. I know HD requires you to pay for a guide if you're by yourself. So, just looking for suggestions of dive ops that include a divemaster/guide with your trips.

I'll be staying right up the street from Conch Republic, but I'm not sure how they operate. Any insights on them or other suggestions would be great! Thanks all.

 

[streetjudge79]

Rainbow Reef or Scuba Do... if you do Scuba Doo, ask for Suzette Truesdell.. She rocks.

 

[BarryR]

Ocean Pro in Key Largo has three boats and are very accomodating, but a bit on the high side...(Nitrox provided)

 

[nivram]

Rainbow Reef or Scuba Do... if you do Scuba Doo, ask for Suzette Truesdell.. She rocks.

+1 for Rainbow Reef

 

[Jaymeany]

I did my idc at ocean divers and they rock. Nice boats and great crew can't go wrong. I plan a trip there for about 20 people a least once a year and we stay at Marina Del Mar.

 

[stangd1909]

Silent Divers are a great outfit to use.

 

[Hannawa]

+1 for Rainbow Reef

+1 Rainbow Reef

 

[hul kogan]

Figured I would post the report I typed up on SB here, as well:

Just wanted to report back on my experiences with Key Dives (www.keydives.com).

These folks really understand great customer service. They make sure each and every diver is taken care of and as I was told, "It's your vacation, you shouldn't be doing the work." Their boat, the Giant Stride, is well-equipped with all the usual dive boat commodities and captained by Scott (helluva nice guy and former Ohioan, which I thought was neat). Each guide takes no more than 6 divers and their personal service throughout the trip is refreshing. Pre-dive briefs with your group are the norm and during the dive they are quick to point out interesting specimens, which is particularly nice for photographers. Even though you have your own guide, the other guides are quick to help and assist you when needed, even Captain Scott who sees nearly all divers off into the 'pool'.

After my first day of diving, I was pleasantly surprised that all the guides (not just my own), Scott and even employees in the shop greeted me by name. I know that's not something essential, but it really adds to the personal degree of service. So, if it's not already glaringly obvious, I highly recommend Key Dives for those who are looking for an excellent dive op with great customer service and guided dives in Islamorada, or anywhere in the Upper Keys for that matter.