Firsthand reports from dive trips, with the details that matter once you are actually there: diving conditions, operators, travel logistics, gear, cost, surface time, and what worked or did not.
Upcoming · March 2027
Philippines
For the first time, we're heading to the Philippines with Crystal Blue Diving for world-class muck diving with volcanic sand and unmatched critter density. This is deliberate, shallow, camera-friendly diving focused almost entirely on rare and unusual marine life rather than scenery.
View trip details
April 2026 · Cozumel, Mexico
Drift diving · Resort based · Non-diver friendly
A return trip to Iberostar Cozumel. Six days of planned diving turned into a shorter week after travel delays and getting sick. Covers drift diving conditions, visibility swings, gear testing, and what the experience actually feels like both in and out of the water. Includes practical notes on the dive operation, resort tradeoffs, and travel logistics.
November 2025 · Waikiki, Oahu
Wreck + reef · Short dive add-on · Small operator
Two mornings of diving off Waikiki with Kaimana Divers, exploring the Sea Tiger wreck and Kewalo Pipe reef. Small groups, easy logistics, and efficient operation that makes short dive trips worthwhile. Includes notes on the Moana Surfrider as a dive base, a visit to Manoa Chocolate on the North Shore, and a few honest warnings about what to skip.
April 2025 · Fiji
Shark diving · Dive resort · Non-diver friendly
An in-depth review of a week at Beqa Lagoon Resort, Fiji, including legendary shark dives, cultural excursions, food, staff, and gear setup. I break down what to pack, how travel logistics are handled, and why this may be one of the most non-diver-friendly scuba resorts out there. Includes details on every part of the experience from arrival to departure.
December 2024 · Mexico
Cenotes + shore diving · Resort travel
This hybrid trip combined boat and shore dives in Akumal with stunning cavern dives in Tulum's cenotes. I share candid insights on lodging hassles at Hotel Xcaret, logistical tips for offsite diving, and personal stories from two very different dive environments including a drysuit mishap and a close look at cave diving etiquette.
October 2024 · Atlanta, Georgia
Aquarium experience · Whale sharks + manta rays
A behind-the-scenes look at diving with whale sharks and manta rays inside the Georgia Aquarium's “Journey with Gentle Giants” experience. This detailed walkthrough covers everything from check-in to gear fit, underwater choreography, and post-dive perks. VIP dive or controlled conga line? You decide.
April 2024 · Cozumel, Mexico
Drift diving · All-inclusive resort · Group trip
An all-inclusive dive week at Iberostar Cozumel with Dressel Divers. I share tips on rooms, resort layout, group diving logistics, and the benefits of staying close to the dive sites. Includes gear notes, travel advice, and reflections on celebrating a 50th dive milestone.
January 2023 · Key Largo, Florida
Florida Keys · Boat diving · Non-diver friendly
A relaxed diving getaway to the Florida Keys, centered around Sea Dwellers in Key Largo. I share tips on lodging, boat conditions, diver mix, and how to balance dive mornings with non-diver travel companions. Plus a scenic wrap-up in Key West.