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Any feedback on dive operators on AC? We are looking for comfortable boats and prefer giant stride entry due to old back problems. We were looking at Gaz Cooper but we are not crazy about back roll entries after 20 -25 dives it takes its toll on you. Any help is appreciated, John.

John...Aqua Divers right in front of the Sunbreeze has a few boats that would permit a "giant stride" entry..the side is hinged.. I have never went diving with them tho, they tend to have big groups on big boats and I prefer the smaller groups Have had great times with Amigos del Mar as well as Coral Beach dive shop but never have seen a boat that would permit a stride entry.. have a fun time..

Hi,
I started diving about 20 years ago and find that the easiest entry is one that they usually don't teach in classes. Instead of back roll or giant stride, I set up my gear, put on my mask, snorkel and fins, inflate my bc and put it over the boat into the water. Then I slide into the water and sit on the tank, put my arms through the bc and it slips right on. It is so easy, unless there is a current. I hurt my back in Honduras a few years ago climbing onto the boat with a bc and integrated weights. I won't do that again. I find that most divemasters are very accomodating in Belize. Just explain to them what you want.

We have the only boats I know of that have a rear platform allowing a giant stride entry. Our primary boat for local diving is a 35 foot Bradley Pelican diesel inboard with a 10 x 4 foot platform on the back. We prefer to keep our groups smaller and attempt to take no more than 10 divers at a time, unless a group wants to dive together. We are awaiting delivery of a 40 foot offshore cruiser set up similarly to be used for large groups and trips to the atolls (this should be on the island early in March). Contact us at: [email protected]. You can visit our website (not fully complete yet) at: www.barefootwatersports.net.

[This message has been edited by barefoot (edited 02-19-2001).]