Posted by: academyofscuba | May 16, 2013

Free Oceanic Transmitter with Dive Computer Purchase

Are you air-integrated? Do you want to be?

Let’s make this simple. For a limited time when you purchase any of the air-integrated hose-less wrist computer systems shown above we’ll include a wireless transmitter absolutely FREE. That’s a $400+ value!

This offer is good for a limited time, starting May 15 and running into July, with the purchase of VT 4.1, OC1, ATOM 3.1 or the new OCi (our new air-integrated OCS – available late May). Download cable is included. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers. This is a global promotion. These dates may vary slightly overseas.

Stop in at the multiple Phoenix area locations for Academy of Scuba – a premier Oceanic Dealer in Arizona.

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Posted in Scuba Equipment, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, arizona, computer, dive, diver, diving, equipment, gear, oceanic, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | May 1, 2013

Academy of Scuba Launches New Photo Diver Club

Underwater Photo Club Rallies Phoenix, Arizona Based Divers and Snorkelers Every Month

Underwater Photography Class at Academy of Scuba

Phoenix, Arizona: The Academy of Scuba is pleased to announce the formation of the Friday Night Photo Club for Underwater Photographers or folks who are interested in taking pictures while Scuba diving and/or snorkeling. Starting in May 2013, Academy of Scuba will host a monthly meeting of its newest dive club and will continue on the fourth Friday of each month. The first meeting will be on May 24^th, at 6pm. The intent of the club is to host meetings at both the Academy of Scuba Metro Center Location and Paradise Valley Location. Meetings are expected to be about 1 hour long.

While several of the Academy of Scuba staff is integral to the formation of the club, its chairperson is PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and Photo Pro, C.G. Durda. Durda has long been reputed as an expert in the area of Photography both above water and underwater in the Phoenix area.

“Whether you are a diver or a snorkeler, this is a place for you to ask questions, get answers and congregate with a lot of like-minded photographers, commented Durda. This club will be packed with great information and a lot of fun. We look forward to exciting diving events, classes, seminars, photo-trips, and providing opportunities for learning how to take and (hopefully) publish great photos.

Participation in the club has no cost and the Academy of Scuba Photo Diver Club is open to all divers and snorkelers either living in Phoenix, Arizona or just visiting. To learn more about the Academy of Scuba Photo Diver Club, go to http://www.academyofscuba.com/photo-diver-club.html

About the Academy of Scuba

Academy of Scuba Inc., with multiple locations in Arizona, is a PADI Five Star IDC Training Facility, a DAN Training Center/Business Member, a DEMA Member, and a member of the Better Business Bureau. The Academy of Scuba is an industry innovator for developing, implementing, and reinforcing advanced level Scuba diver training programs. The Academy of Scuba focuses on training with an emphasis to create “great divers”. The sole purpose of the Academy of Scuba is to not just put people in the water, but to keep people in the water. The Academy of Scuba assists divers in increasing enjoyment, adventure, and safety through better education and more frequent dive experiences.

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Posted in What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, diver, phoenix, photo club, photographer, scuba, underwater photography

Posted by: academyofscuba | March 26, 2013

New Women’s Scuba Diving Club in Phoenix Arizona

The Academy of Scuba is pleased to announce the formation of the Women’s Dive Club. Starting in April 2013, Academy of Scuba will host a monthly meeting of its newest dive club and will continue on the first Tuesday of each month. The first meeting will be on April 2nd, at 6pm. The intent of the club is to host meetings at both the Academy of Scuba Metro Center Location and Paradise Valley Location.

While several of the Academy of Scuba staff are integral to formation of the club, its chairperson is PADI Assistant Instructor Jamie Ritchey. Ritchey brings a breadth of dive experience and knowledge to the club. Additionally, Ritchey is a proven community organizer and leader.

“This is for all you lady divers out there. We’re putting together a fun group just for women to talk about all things scuba“, commented Ritchey. Our goals are to build the female dive community by organizing women’s diving events, classes, seminars, and trips and providing opportunities for fellowship with one another.

The Academy of Scuba Women’s Dive Club is open to all female divers either living in Phoenix Arizona or just visiting. To learn more about the Women’s Dive Club, go to http://www.academyofscuba.com/womens-dive-club.html

About the Academy of Scuba

Academy of Scuba Inc., with multiple locations in Arizona, is a PADI Five Star IDC Training Facility, a DAN Training Center/Business Member, a DEMA Member, and a member of the Better Business Bureau. The Academy of Scuba is an industry innovator for developing, implementing, and reinforcing advanced level Scuba diver training programs. The Academy of Scuba focuses on training with an emphasis to create “great divers”. The sole purpose of the Academy of Scuba is to not just put people in the water, but to keep people in the water. The Academy of Scuba assists divers in increasing enjoyment, adventure, and safety through better education and more frequent dive experiences.

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Posted in What's New @ The Academy | Tags: arizona, dive, divers, diving, phoenix, scuba, scuba diving, women

Posted by: academyofscuba | March 5, 2013

Introducing the Amphos Dive Computer by Sherwood Scuba

Sleek in design, affordable in price, and ready to dive!

Sherwood Scuba will soon be releasing the newest watch style wrist computer called the Amphos. Many divers favor slick, low profile dive computers that can be worn comfortably as a watch and used as a computer. Sherwood is delivering that very same design at a remarkably affordable price.

The most notable feature of the Amphos is its sporty design and size. Most folks would confuse the Amphos with a dive watch or just a regular “street watch”. Once you realize it is packed with the latest cutting edge features for a dive computer, it becomes very appealing for any diver looking for a dual purpose wrist computer.

The Amphos is a two gas wrist computer that can Gas Switch up to 100% on the second gas. Much like its sister computer, the Wisdom, the Amphos offers an easy to read interface and intuitive screen navigation. The Amphos is simple so a diver can focus on diving, not figuring out how to read their computer.

Other features for the Amphos include:

Four Operating Modes: (1) Watch Mode, (2) Dive Mode, (3) Free Dive Mode, (4) Gauge Mode.
DSAT Decompression Model (Modified Haldanean).
Safety Stop and Deep Stop Programs with Countdown (minutes and seconds).
24 Dive Logbook.
Selectable Audible Alarms with Flashing Icons.
Loading Bar Graphs (Oxygen, Nitrogen, Ascent).
Wet Activation
History Mode (tracks number of dives, maximum depth, total hours, and lowest depth)
Data Retention (maintains information during battery swap)

By comparison, Sherwood Scuba has set the stage for the Amphos to be a leading wrist computer on the market. However, the one feature not listed above is the cost. The anticipated suggested retail price is $399. At that price, the Amphos becomes one of the most affordable and functional watches on the market. The features make the Amphos a great primary computer. The cost makes the Amphos a reasonable backup computer or affordable for the diver wanting redundancy and having two of the same computer.

The one drawback of the Amphos is that it is not air integrated. Air integration allows a diver to track its tank pressure and remaining air time. Air integration is a convenient feature for most divers, but not a necessity. It is expected the Amphos Air will be released within the next several months and add these elements.

Look for the Amphos Dive Computer on the shelves of the Academy of Scuba this spring or in our online store at http://www.azdivers.com

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Posted in Scuba Equipment, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: computer, dive, diver, diving, equipment, scuba, sherwood

Posted by: academyofscuba | March 1, 2013

Five Things You Can Do to Protect Your Favorite Dive Site

Real world practices for everyday people

When it comes to protecting the environment, everyone wants to be politically correct and do the right thing. However, for most people, protecting the environment requires a change in mind-set that doesn’t always blend with their day-to-day life. We hear a lot about “your carbon footprint,” but for most normal people, that doesn’t always translate to real world action items. However, there are many things you, an Average Joe/Josephine can do, easily, to change the way you impact the environment and most likely protect your favorite dive site.

Your Mission: Small changes over a reasonable period of time

Less Plastic!!!
Take a look at how much plastic you use! Plastic cups, water bottles, coffee cups, to-go containers, shopping bags, and more. Take the next five weeks and implement a program that reduces your plastic. Week 1; replace all your plastic disposable cups with reusable cups or biodegradable cups. Week 2; go out and buy a reusable “Starbucks Look-A-Like” Coffee Cup and bring that into the coffee shop to be refilled. Week 3; go to the local grocery store and buy 20 reusable shopping bags (keep them in your trunk and use them). Week 4; set up recycling bins in your kitchen, bathrooms, garage, and other key rooms. Week 5; every time you buy something that is plastic, look for the recycled label.

Plastic bags, bottles, and more are littering thousands of square miles in the world’s oceans. It drastically impacts marine life and is killing important species. Your five week program will help save the ocean and your favorite dive site. Plus, you will feel great in the process.

Practice Safe Diving – Secure All Falling Equipment
As a SAFE diver, you are making a commitment to minimalizing your impact when you dive. That means you are taking only pictures and leaving only bubbles. As a SAFE diver, you are conscious that EVERY diver impacts a dive site when they visit. How you avoid damage depends on how you dive. Master your buoyancy through training and pool practice. Properly stow your gear on your person while diving. Be conscious of your surroundings and the environment.

Following are a couple of action items: Week 1; invest 15 minutes and set up your equipment at home or at your local dive shop. Step back from your equipment and look at all the “dangling lines and equipment.” Talk to your local dive shop about different clips, retractors, and tie downs that can help you streamline your equipment. Week 2; reserve your space in your favorite instructor’s Buoyancy Class and take it with environmental consciousness as a goal and objective. Week 3; grab your smart phone and schedule some practice time in the local pool or lake. The focus should be on keeping your fins off the bottom and playing the “no touch game.” See how long you can dive and not touch the bottom.

Be Aware When Ordering Seafood
Awareness programs like Banning Shark Finning have gone viral in today’s world of social connectivity. It’s still a worldwide concern, however very few people would walk into a restaurant and order a bowl of shark fin soup. However, sharks are not the only species under attack. Many of the world’s game fish are under attack by the appetite of the world. Making smart consumer purchases should be every diver’s responsibility. Two things you can do is (1) stay away from seafood that is on the endangered list and (2) whenever possible, you should order seafood that was bred in a fish farm. Consumption of farm bred fish is environmentally friendly.

Ready for your Seafood Aware action items? Week 1; download the Seafood Watch App or PDF Card from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Web site. Schedule a reminder on your personal calendar to update your Seafood Watch card every quarter and check for updates. Week 2; send out a personal email or share a link on your Facebook Page to your friends and family and ask them to make conscious seafood choices. Share the Seafood Watch card with them. Week 3; spend 3 hours and research local seafood restaurants (maybe make a few phone calls or send a few emails) and ask them if they have protocols in place to help protect endangered species on their menu. When you find a good restaurant, tell everyone about it and vote with your wallet. Week 4; establish a vegetarian night once per week. A great healthy and hearty way to save your favorite dive site.

Use environmentally friendly detergents
Detergents and soaps are filled with phosphates, dyes, bleach, and more. Some of these soaps and detergents are harmful to local waterways, rivers, and ultimately the ocean. Some effects of injecting these harsh chemicals into the waterways include algal blooms which reduce visibility and cover the reefs and other marine life. The real problem is there are no government regulations for disclosing contents of detergents and soaps and you will find many of the labels are misleading and contain terms that have little to no relevance. However, “going green” is not as hard as you think and can lead to some healthy options that extend far beyond just protecting your favorite dive site.

Week 1; find an “eco-friendly” washing detergent. Do some research on the Internet and check out your local market. Find one, at the store you usually shop at, that works for you. If you have to make a special trip for liquid detergent, you won’t practice this regularly. Week 2; change out your dish soaps and dishwasher detergents to a “green” alternative. Week 3; post your research to Facebook or your blog and talk about your experience in making the switch.

Be your own activist
One World – One Diver – One Change a Week – One Big Impact. If every diver had this philosophy, our oceans would be healthier! It’s your job to educate yourself on the environment concerns facing the oceans of the world. It’s your passion that will drive you to be an activist. You don’t need to march on Washington DC or give CPR to a whale to have a big effect. Make some small changes and then find two friends to do the same. In the end, you will be able to enjoy your dive sites for as long as you are diving.

Week 1; research various ocean driven and dive centric causes. Identify opportunities to help those foundations. Week 2; take a Project Aware course at a local dive shop. Help rally divers to join you in that class and participate with the dive shop in creating a greater concern for the underwater environment. Ask the dive shop to participate in donating a percentage of the revenues from that course to a greater cause. Week 3; host a charity night at a local restaurant/bar or at your house. Put a cover charge on the event and donate the proceeds to your ocean driven charity. Hold a raffle where people have to purchase the tickets and the proceeds benefit to the elected charity for the evening. Maybe your local dive shop will help with the raffle. Week 4; don’t quit after 3 weeks. Put a plan together to help the Marine Environment on a regular basis. One World – One Diver!

Links:
http://www.montereybayaquarium.org/cr/cr_seafoodwatch/sfw_consumers.aspx?c=ln
http://www.projectaware.org

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Posted in Environment, Scuba Training | Tags: activist, buoyancy, dive, diver, environment, environmentally friendly

Posted by: academyofscuba | February 28, 2013

Sidemount Diving: Fad, Phase, or Here to Stay?

If you’ve been on a dive boat lately, you’ve probably run into a configuration that is quickly gaining popularity. Two tanks hoisted to each side of a diver. A far stray from the traditional single tank, back mounted. It’s called sidemount diving. It’s not new as technical, wreck, and cave divers have been using a sidemount configuration for years. However, recently agencies and manufacturers have introduced training and equipment packages for the recreational diver. Sidemount is now in the mainstream diver’s curriculum and tool box. The question: Is sidemount diving a fad, phase, or here to stay?

When most divers first view someone sidemount diving, the misguided perspective is that sidemount systems are awkward and uncomfortable. However, a diver only needs to slip underneath the water to feel the streamlined effects and ease of use that is derived from sidemount diving. There are many benefits to sidemount diving and it is these benefits that are attracting mainstream divers from all around the world.

An alternative way to streamline in the water
For years, cave and wreck divers have been using sidemount systems to streamline through tight avenues in overhead environments. In open water, the principle remains the same. Sidemount diving has a streamlined, low drag effect that allows divers to use less energy and move easier when in open water.

Easier equipment transportation when topside
Sidemount systems are broken down into their individual components. Each component can be individually carried to the shoreline or to the swim step on a boat. For recreational divers who may not be as strong as other divers, this provides a low impact and less stressful way to approach and enter the water. Most sidemount divers don their tanks while in the water at the surface.

Reduced lower back strain
When your cylinder is moved from your back to your side, it instantly takes the pressure off of your back and gives you more flexibility to move and enjoy your dive. Comfort is a key component to relaxation, which lowers your respiratory rate and heart rate. Less strain on a diver physiologically lends to increased bottom time, increased safety, and increased enjoyment.

Provides redundant gas supply
Self-sufficient divers have realized the benefits of a redundant gas supply for decades. Having an alternative air supply, that is independent of a dive buddy, makes self-rescue the primary plan for an emergency bailout. A sidemount system has natural contingency built in for recreational and technical divers. Is sidemount diving safer because of this reason alone? Most dive professionals would argue yes.

Ability to monitor all equipment because it’s in front of you
Sidemount divers gain a whole new perspective on diving. With your breathing system and gas supply in front of you, divers can now monitor these very important components visually. Simply, a backmounted system is reliant on a buddy to monitor the breathing system underwater. A sidemount diver will have the ability to identify potential equipment failure earlier under this new configuration.

Increased gas supply for longer dives
If you are the first one out of air in your dive group, sidemount diving may be a solution for you. Nothing beats practice and cardiovascular shape when it comes to air consumption. However, this is a solution to quickly and easily increase your gas supply, possibly extending your bottom time and still staying within recreational dive limits. For some sidemount divers, this is not the biggest advantage. In fact, there is a trend where some recreational sidemount divers are purchasing smaller tanks (ie. 50 cubic foot and 40 cubic foot) to sling on each side. The smaller tanks are easier to transport, carry and “sling into place” at the surface.

There are obviously many advantages to sidemount diving. Some industry insiders say that it was not the advantages that drove the increased popularity in sidemount diving. Rather, it was the creativity and ingenuity of manufacturers and dive training agencies that needed to increase revenue by introducing some new products into what had become a stale line in a flat economy. Sidemount diving does have disadvantages including a need to purchase additional gear and training. Additionally, some dive boats and resorts are still trying to figure out how sidemount divers blend into their offerings and have not set up support systems for divers using sidemount. In fact, many dive boats and resorts consider recreational sidemount diving as a technical style of diving. Regardless, most new and experienced divers agree, sidemount diving is easy, fun, and the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages.

Is sidemount diving here to stay? Yes it is! Sidemount systems are being offered by many mainstream vendors. Dive agencies and instructors are offering recreational classes that someone with just a few dives can enroll into. Divers are always looking for easier ways to dive, be more self-reliant, and increase their bottom time. Sidemount diving is a step forward to helping most divers achieve those goals and more.

Photo credit to CG Durda, Underwater Photo Professional.

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Posted in Scuba Equipment, Scuba Training | Tags: diving, recreational diving, scuba, sidemount, training

Posted by: academyofscuba | February 26, 2013

Phoenix Scuba Socials Announced for March 2013

Phoenix based Academy of Scuba with dive shop locations in Metro Center and Paradise Valley today announced its calendar for its Scuba meet and greets and diver socials for the month of March 2013.

Academy of Scuba’s dive socials and Scuba meet and greets are a great way to meet local divers, mingle with a variety of dive professionals, learn about upcoming dive outings, and discuss equipment with divers actively using it.

Academy of Scuba’s Elephant Bar, or East side, social is one of the most popular and oldest running dive socials in the Metro Phoenix area. Consistently on the first Thursday of each month, divers from all over the Phoenix area travel to the Elephant Bar on the corner of Scottsdale Road and Mayo Boulevard (just south of 101). The Meet and Greet starts at 630pm and generally runs to about 9pm.

For more information: https://www.facebook.com/#!/events/331221283645111/

Academy of Scuba’s West side social is quickly becoming the Valley’s most exciting new dive event. The social is held at Nino’s Pizzeria. Local Diver Joe Previte makes a great East Coast Style Pizza. Nino’s is located at 58^th Avenue and Peoria. It starts at 630pm and runs to approximately 9pm. Nino’s is a casual place to hang with friends, which makes for the perfect environment for divers and non-divers alike.

For more information: https://www.facebook.com/#!/events/585759014786944/

The East side social takes place on Thursday, March 7th. The West side social takes place on Thursday, March 21st. The Academy of Scuba promotes a designated driver friendly environment and encourages everyone to avoid drinking and driving.

If you wear your Academy of Scuba T-Shirt, you may win a $10 gift certificate to use at any Academy of Scuba location.

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Posted in What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, dive shop, dive social, elephant bar, local diving, nino's, phoenix, scuba, scuba social

Posted by: academyofscuba | February 3, 2013

Phoenix Based Scuba Divers Win with Superbowl Special

Announced today, all Scuba divers in the Phoenix area win at the final second of Superbowl 2013!

Superbowl Special!!!! Valid on Monday February 4, 2013 only! If the 49ers win the Superbowl, all training purchased on Monday February 4th is 25% off the suggested retail price. If the Ravens win the Superbowl, on February 4th, it is buy one training course and get one of equal value or less for $1.

Cannot be combined with any other specials and/or discounts. Management reserves the right to restrict or rescind this deal at any time. All specials expire at 7pm on Monday February 4, 2013.

Check out all our Courses at http://www.academyofscuba.com/courses

About the Academy of Scuba

Academy of Scuba Inc, with three locations in Arizona, is a PADI Five Star IDC Training Facility, a DAN Training Center/Business Member, a DEMA Member, and a member of the Better Business Bureau. The Academy of Scuba is an industry innovator for developing, implementing, and reinforcing advanced level Scuba diver training programs. The Academy of Scuba focuses on training with an emphasis to create “great divers”. The sole purpose of the Academy of Scuba is to not just put people in the water, but to keep people in the water. The Academy of Scuba assists divers in increasing enjoyment, adventure, and safety through better education and more frequent dive experiences.

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Posted in Scuba Training, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: arizona, diver, phoenix, scuba, superbowl, training

Posted by: academyofscuba | January 29, 2013

Academy of Scuba Hosts Handicapped Scuba Instructor Program in March 2013

Handicapped Scuba Association at Academy of Scuba

Phoenix, Arizona: Academy of Scuba Inc. announced today it will host an Instructor Program for the Handicapped Scuba Association (HSA) on March 15th. Instructor Trainer Captain Curt Jablin will lead successful candidates on a challenging, adventurous, and exciting journey as they learn to adapt to students with special needs.

Founded in 1981, the Handicapped Scuba Association has dedicated itself to improving the physical and social well-being of people with disabilities through the sport of Scuba diving, and in doing so has become the worldwide leading authority in this field. Made up of over 4000 underwater educators, Scuba divers with disabilities, and supporting members located in over 45 countries, the Handicapped Scuba Association is dedicated to assuring that people with disabilities are given the same opportunity to receive quality training, certification, and dive adventures as the able-bodied population.

To learn more about the Instructor Training Course in March, go to http://academyofscuba.com/hsa-itc.html.

About the Academy of Scuba

Academy of Scuba Inc, with three locations in Arizona, is a PADI Five Star IDC Training Facility, a DAN Training Center/Business Member, a DEMA Member, and a member of the Better Business Bureau. The Academy of Scuba is an industry innovator for developing, implementing, and reinforcing advanced level Scuba diver training programs. The Academy of Scuba focuses on training with an emphasis to create “great divers”. The sole purpose of the Academy of Scuba is to not just put people in the water, but to keep people in the water. The Academy of Scuba assists divers in increasing enjoyment, adventure, and safety through better education and more frequent dive experiences.

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Posted in Scuba Training, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, divers, handicapped scuba, hsa, instructor program, phoenix

Posted by: academyofscuba | January 28, 2013

The Weather Outside is Frightful, but the Diving is Delightful

Lake Pleasant Dive Report – January 27, 2013

When you walked out the door this past weekend, early in the morning, everything seemed to be a motivator to go back and climb into bed. It was dark, rainy and cold. Three things that make Phoenix feel more like Alaska than Arizona. However, there were several groups of divers that threw their Scuba gear into the back of the trucks and trunks in their car and braved the adverse weather conditions and headed to Lake Pleasant for a dive or two. The mantra, “it doesn’t rain underwater”.

Lake Pleasant is currently 62% full and continuing to move to the 100% mark. The current water temperature at the surface is 51 degrees farenheit. Visibility ranges at the surface from 20 to 30 feet. Visibility at depth appears to be better, however ambient light is reduced. Currently, there is ambient light down to 100 feet (although visibility reduces below a thermocline at 80 feet).

As many people state, this is the beginning of Arizona’s local dive season. While the water temperature is a bit colder than most would like, it is easily overshadowed by the great conditions and visibility.

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Posted in Local Diving | Tags: arizona, dive, diver, diving, lake pleasant, local diving, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | January 27, 2013

Sealife DC1400 Maxx Duo Earns Sport Diver Magazine Editor’s Pick

In the March 2013 issue of Sport Diver Magazine, the Sealife DC1400 Maxx Duo with Fisheye Wide-Angle lens earns the acclaimed Editor’s Pick. The Sealife DC14o Maxx Duo combines a 14-megapixel camera, fisheye wide-angle lens, flash strobe video light and easy to use tray. There is also a nice inventory of attachments and accessories availbale as well. With the DC1400, you will never get caught between shooting cool underwater video or photos again. At the flick of a very user friendly button, you can switch between environments and document your dive!

With the Sealife DC1400, divers are finding this to be the easy choice to take underwater photos and videos. Easy to use and even easier on the wallet, this system compares quite nicely to systems 4 or 5 times it’s price.

The staff at Sport Diver Magazine added, “the DC1400 Maxx Duo offers the dual light capability of a digital pro flash and a photo/video light all ina bag the size of a laptop computer, so you are always ready to take photos or HD Video … Sweet“

Interested in trying the Sealife DC1400, contact the Academy of Scuba at 602.971.3483 or 602.995.5926 and set up your Try Underwater Photo for Free Workshop. Interested in buying the Sealife DC1400 Maxx Duo or other Sealife Camera Systems, check out our online store.

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Posted in Scuba Equipment | Tags: dive, diver, diving, magazine, padi, photo, scuba, sport diver, underwater photography

Posted by: academyofscuba | January 25, 2013

Oceanic launches the new ProPlus 3

As Academy of Scuba President, Jeff Varner says, “No more squinting”.

Oceanic belives that a dive computer should deliver crucial data quickly & without confusion. Hence why our new console dive computer ProPlus 3 has a huge display area, the largest, most legible, digits on the market, an intuitive user interface and a host of other major enhancements that are sure to impress divers at any skill level.

“The ProPlus series of Air-Integrated Dive Computers has always been one of the best sellers in this product category. The new, updated PP3 has the looks, and features, to make it the leader in this group for years to come.” Says Dan Emke, Oceanic Worldwide President.

Equipment Testing Specialists (ETS), the industry arm of the team behind the ScubaGear Reports, agrees.

“The PP3 was very easy to use with all the features I would look for in a computer. The digits are large and easy read. The two button design is intuitive and easy to learn. Navigation through menus and settings can be learned quickly and with very little need for the owners manual. The upgrades from the PP2 are substantial and make this a computer I would definitely purchase.” From the independent evaluation of the ProPlus 3 done by Equipment Testing Specialists (ETS).

Main features:

Largest, easiest-to-read display available – anywhere.
Patented Air Time Remaining algorithm provides extremely accurate time based on current depth and your personal air consumption.
Dual Algorithm – choose the decompression algorithm that best suits your diving needs or match your buddy’s without compromising safety. Choose between Pelagic DSAT (Spencer/Powell data basis) or Pelagic Z+ (Buhlmann ZHL-16C data basis).
Custom alarms
Optional quick disconnect
Smart Glow – when you activate your backlight in a low light level environment like a night dive – it stays on. Smart right?
Fresh and salt water calibrations
3 gases – 21 to 100%
Deep stop
Adjustable safety stop settings
Log saves detailed dive data for last 50 dives
Data Retention – maintains calculations indefinitely when the battery is changed

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Posted in Scuba Equipment, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: dive, dive computer, diver, diving, equipment, oceanic, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | January 21, 2013

Dive Show in Chicago Attracts Phoenix Area Divers

As a Phoenix area diver, your “dive show” options are fairly limited and usually require travel. While it may seem absurd to travel just for a dive show, you have to look at the value packed itineraries and incredible display of vendors that coincide with these events. In many cases, these venues are the highlight of people’s dive season. And, traveling to Chicago in the middle of February may seem a bit crazy, but wait until you see what they have planned!

Our World Underwater 2013 is scheduled between February 15 through February 17. Known as a “key show” for Scuba industry manufacturers, the halls of Our World Underwater will be packed with displays, Scuba equipment, and industry veterans keen on educating divers on the latest and greatest they have to offer. Divers from all around the region, and many from outside the Chicago area will be flowing through the aisles with eyes like little children on Christmas morning. Local Phoenix diver, Mark Moran, attended Our World Underwater in 2012 and said, “the electricity at the show was amazing.” Moran continued, “throngs of divers walked up and down the aisles and even in the middle of winter, in the middle of the United States, you felt like you were in the water.“

The exhibition is held at the Donald E Stephens Convention Center, just minutes from O’Hare Airport. Most divers coming from outside the Chicago area will stay at the host hotel - The Hyatt Regency O’Hare, which Our World Underwater has negotiated rates for its attendees.

The weekend starts off on Friday morning with “in-depth” workshops that tend to be suited for dive professionals and individuals looking to “go deeper” with their knowledge of the diving world and industry. The Exhibition Hall, which hosts all the trade show booths and displays, opens promptly at 5pm, for all the eagerly waiting Scuba enthusiasts. At the end of the first day, show attendees can relax with the ever-popular Scuba film festival which lasts until 10pm. Truly a day of excitement in diving.

Saturday tends to be the busiest day of the weekend long event. And, with the Exhibition hall open from 9am to 6pm, there would seem to be enough time to see every Scuba vendor at the show. If you are looking for a break to relax the feet, throughout the day presentations, seminars, and workshops are hosted by vendors and guest speakers. Visitors to the show will have the opportunity to listen to industry insiders like Stan Waterman, Jill Heinerth, Robert Marx, and Dan Orr. Saturday evening includes a fun “Presenter Meet and Greet” and the finale of the Film Festival. Don’t forget to find some time and eat!

Sunday winds down at 4pm and is packed full of seminars and workshops. This is the opportunity to hit those vendors that have been on your list all weekend. Whether you are looking to shoot pictures like a pro or try your chance at winning a free dive vacation, Our World Underwater offers a great opportunity all weekend long.

As a Phoenix based Scuba diver, we have the opportunity to travel throughout the world and play in the world’s oceans. With shows like Our World Underwater helping educate Scuba divers, it only makes diving safer and more fun. Think about Chicago in February and jump into our world … underwater.

For more information, go to http://www.ourworldunderwater.com/

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Posted in Scuba Equipment, Scuba Travel | Tags: chicago, diver, our world underwater, phoenix, scuba, scuba film festival, scuba vendor

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 21, 2012

Lake Pleasant Dive Report – 20 Dec 2012

The dawn of “Dive Season” is here! Arizona divers are getting excited as lake levels are starting to rise, conditions are improving, and visibility is expanding every divers view. Lake Pleasant is up to 1661 feet above sea level, a little over 57% capacity. This is well off its October lows. Lake Pleasant water temperatures are in the high 50s. Visibility in the shallows is approximately 25 feet and down at 60 feet the visibility is about 15 feet with plenty of ambient light.

Keep an eye on http://blog.academyofscuba.com for up to date Lake Pleasant Conditions.

Looking for a great drive and dive opportunity? Lake Mohave conditions are continuing to improve. Visibility, at times, can reach up to 60 or 70 feet. Water temperatures are in the mid 50s. Lake Mohave is on the Arizona/Nevada Border about 5 miles North of Laughlin, Nevada. For more information on diving Lake Mohave, check out http://www.lakemohavescuba.com

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Posted in Local Diving | Tags: arizona, dive, diver, diving, lake pleasant, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 20, 2012

Go Diving with the Academy of Scuba

Academy of Scuba in Florida!

Academy of Scuba Florida has arrived! Don’t miss out on our trips to Florida in 2013. Currently we have 4 trips to Key Largo and there will be trips to Key West and Pompano Beach announced soon. Key Largo forms an integral portion of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, creating an absolute paradise for underwater photographers. Key Largo is also home to some incredible wreck diving. We’ll be diving wrecks like the Spiegel Grove, the Duane, the Bibb, and the Eagle. For more information on these amazing long weekend getaways, Click Here. Sign up soon as space is limited!

Become a Stronger Diver

Are you ready to get more enjoyment from your dives and to take your diving to the next level? Then check out this incredible opportunity to up your scuba fitness. Academy of Scuba is teaming up with Alex Gilman of Helix Wellness Solutions to bring you health and fitness training by a certified and qualified expert. Alex offers fully customized in-home personal training and he will also be hosting an action-packed wellness seminar in January. Start the New Year off right! Click Here to learn more about these fantastic opportunities and to take advantage of the great specials for Academy of Scuba divers!

Bonaire… The Ultimate Dive Adventure

This past November, Academy of Scuba traveled to Bonaire, and it proved to be an epic trip. In October 2013 we’re heading back with even more adventure planned. Not only will there be unlimited shore diving on the more than 60 different sites around the island, but we’ll be boat diving on lesser known sites and even throwing a technical dive in the mix for those who are certified. This is definitely one trip you don’t want to miss! Click Here for more information and to sign up.

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Posted in Scuba Travel, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, bonaire, diving, fitness, florida, key largo, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 15, 2012

Be A Scuba Instructor – New Year, New Adventures

Are you looking for something extraordinary? To do something others can only dream of? To help people transform their lives? To open doors you didn’t even know existed? All of this, and more, awaits you as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor.

The Academy of Scuba will be hosting a PADI Go Pro Night on Monday, December 17, 2012 at 6pm at its Metro Center location. If you are a diver, or looking to become one and think being a Scuba instructror is a goal for you. This is a night, you won’t want to miss. It’s free, sign up online at http://www.academyofscuba.com/go-pro-night.html

It’s about life transformations—both yours and those around you.

Be a Scuba Instructor. For more information, attend our Go Pro Night and check out http://www.beascubainstructor.com

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Posted in Scuba Training, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: dive, diver, diving, go pro, instructor, padi, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 14, 2012

Scuba Diving Lake Pleasant – 14 Dec. Dive Conditions Report

Vista Point Lake Pleasant Update:

Great surface conditions. Water temperatures are 60 degrees with 15 to 20 foot visibility. There was no noticeable thermocline, however as you go deeper it does get progressively colder. Dive professionals and area shops are recommending 7mm Wetsuits or, even better, a dry suit with hood and gloves.

Ambient light was prevalent at 80 feet.

For up to date conditions for Arizona dive locations, go to http://www.academyofscuba.com

Not a Scuba diver? A variety of stores offer Discover Scuba or Try Scuba events. A great free resource for trying out Scuba diving is http://www.tryscubaforfree.com

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Posted in Local Diving, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: arizona, conditions, dive, diver, diving, lake pleasant, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 13, 2012

The Heart of a Solo Diver…

I’ve taught many divers to be self-sufficient and written several articles on Solo Diving. Several years ago, this topic was taboo and even scorned by many. The buddy system was rooted firmly in most divers’ minds and only radical non-conformists would even dare think about breeching this tried and true practice. However, as time grew on, the debate took on a depth outside of the normal constraints that solo diving was figurative practices more than a literal practice. Even with a diver right next to you, there was still a possibility that you were a solo diver. The concept of solo diving evolved to a higher level and the pundits, while still holding firmly to their buddy system, even agreed that the idea of practicing emergency drills without the aid of a buddy was a good idea.

(Click Here for the Complete Article on Arizona Diver Magazine)

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Posted in Scuba Training | Tags: dive, diver, diving, scuba, solo diver

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 7, 2012

Ruby E – Wreck Alley’s Sweetheart!

The Ruby E was commissioned as the “B” Class Coast Guard Cutter Cyane (WPC-105) on October 25th, 1934 and based in Ketchikan, Alaska. The Cyane was named for the fresh water nymph (naiad) in Greek mythology who opposed Hades when he raped Persephone. She was built by Lake Union Dry Dock & Machine Works of Seattle, Washington and designed for the enforcement of Prohibition.

During World War II, The Ruby E conducted anti-submarine and search and rescue patrols. She also served as an escort for convoys, mostly along the West Coast of the United States.

The Cyane was decommissioned on August 1, 1950 and placed in storage at the Coast Guard Moorings in Kennydale, Washington. She was sold to Birchfield Boiler, Inc., of Tacoma, Washington on December 7, 1954, to commence a new life as a fish-processing vessel. Before her last years of topside service as a salvage vessel, she was renamed Ruby E. On June 18, 1989, the Ruby E. was intentionally sunk as an artificial reef in San Diego’s World Famous Wreck Alley. The history of the Ruby is checkered at best. During its final years, there is speculation that it was used for illegal racketeering coming up from Mexico into the United States.

The Ruby E is the second most popular wreck in San Diego’s popular Wreck Alley. It is frequented by locals, folks visiting San Diego and new “Wreck Divers” looking to hone their skills on something a little shallower and a little smaller (unlike its Wreck Alley neighbor, the Yukon). The Ruby E is known for its many invertebrates that have covered the deteriorating wreck. The Ruby E is 165 foot paradise for photographers looking for Macro topics.

While the Ruby E does offer several easy penetration points, they should only be attempted by qualified divers and divers undergoing wreck certification under the instruction of an Expert Wreck Diving Instructor. The easiest point to enter is the wheel house; however the years and conditions have been harsh on the thin metals outlining this ole Coast Guard Cutter. Extra care should be taken when entering the wheel house, especially for silting and sharp edges.

Another popular entry point on the wreck is the engine room. The boat still carries its large twin diesel engines. You can still see the old rocker arms and other parts of the engine if you close enough. While the engine room is easy to enter, all divers should be certified for wreck penetration when entering. There are lots of places to bang a head, get caught in the metal riggings, cut yourself or get caught in a silt out making it troublesome to find even the large entrance.

It is common mistake to think if the Yukon has poor conditions that the Ruby E may be a better dive. While it is not impossible it is generally not the case. The Ruby E is about 10 minutes from the Yukon and is a bit more exposed to swells and currents. Visibility can range from 2 feet to 20 feet on most days. Water temperatures can run from the high 40’s in winter time to the low 60’s in the summer time. The ruby E sits in about 70 feet at the sand and the deck of the boat is generally a 65 foot dive which makes this a nice second dive to the HMCS Yukon. Generally, one long dive is enough to see the whole boat, however it is also long enough to get you hooked on it as a favorite dive. The Ruby E generally invites most divers back for a second date.

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Posted in Scuba Travel, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, california, dive, diver, diving, ruby e, san diego, scuba, wreck alley, yukon

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 6, 2012

Lavacore FAQs

Interested in Lavacore?

Find out what some of our customers are asking.

Q – Is there a warranty on my Lavacore garment?

A – Yes there is Limited 1-Year Warranty!

If the garment is found to be defective under normal use and proper care, Lavacore International will repair or replace the garment at their sole discretion. The decision to replace or repair a product is made by the Lavacore Warranty Department after receipt of the defective garment. At no time does Lavacore offer refunds. Defective garments should be returned to Academy of Scuba and we will assist in your warranty claim. Please note, Academy of Scuba does not charge for warranty returns, however you are responsible for postage and shipping fees.

For more Warranty Information, go to http://www.lavacoreinternational.com/support/warranty/

Q – What kinds of activities are ideal for using Lavacore?

A – Whether you are Scuba diving, surfing, skiing, kayaking, wakeboarding, windsurfing, kite boarding, snorkeling, jet skiing, boating, sailing… Lavacore is the essential exposure protection needed to enhance your performance on, in, or around the water.

Because of Lavacore’s thermal and neutral buoyancy properties it is the ideal garment under a neoprene wetsuit for added insulation and warmth or as a stand-alone exposure protective garment. The unique make-up of the materials eliminates constriction and allows for extreme movement and flexibility all the while protecting and enhancing your inner core.

Lavacore garments are ideal for any journey that your sport takes you on.

Q – How do I take care of my Lavacore garment?

A – In order to ensure the greatest comfort and longest life of your new Lavacore product, it is important that you take care of it properly.

A few simple tips will ensure that your product continues to provide you with the ultimate in thermal protection and comfort for many years to come.

Care should be taken when donning and doffing your garment. Be careful not to unduly snag or stress your garment, it should not easily slide on or off.
Do not machine wash.
Hand wash in cool water after each use.
Do not tumble dry.
Avoid contact with Velcro.
To dry – hang your garment inside out, on a padded plastic or wooden hanger, and away from direct sunlight.
Avoid storing Lavacore product folded.
Store on a padded hanger or flat.
Zippers and sliders should be thoroughly cleaned after each use and lubricated regularly with a suitable wax.

Q – Are the seams strong?

A – All of the Lavacore seams are overlapped during flat lock sewing to ensure maximum water integrity and reduced water flow through the seams. Maximum heat retention is therefore achieved when worn in colder water conditions. To ensure maximum integrity and longevity of your Lavacore garment the seam cross-overs on the inside of the suit are locked under the threads of the adjoining seam. The seam construction being doubled and flat-locked allows for maximum stretch out of the four way stretch fabric technology without compromising at seam edges.

Q – Tell me more about the Polytherm Technology

A – Close to the skin, this soft internal fleece combined with high 4-way stretch produces the ultimate comfort / warmth / weight ratio, a true leader amongst artificial/man-made fabrics within the water sports industry. Wet or dry, hot or cold, Polytherm helps control your core temperature longer and, when wet, maintains neutral buoyancy, crucial to divers and any high activity water sports enthusiast.

Due to water weight being eliminated the garment becomes an ultra-performance piece of equipment – essential to your body’s needs of maintaining a safe and secure temperature. Whether worn as a stand-alone garment, under your wetsuit or even clothing, Polytherm is guaranteed to keep you well insulated, flexible, lightweight, and free from windchill.

Q – Is Lavacore Unisex or made differently for men and women?

A – The Lavacore range includes female and male specific cuts and unique designs. Lycra panels with contemporary lines and graphics are incorporated into all garments. You’ll also find a Full Under the Arm Gusset. This ensures there is no rub or irritation on the sensitive under side of the arms and side of the body. It also reduces restricted movement considerably and allows for extra reach without seam strain and damage.

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Posted in Scuba Equipment, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, dive, diver, lavacore, polytherm

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 5, 2012

December (Holiday) Diver Social and Scuba Meet and Greet

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 5, 2012

Lavacore – The Hottest Product for Cold Water Diving

It’s not a dive skin and it’s not a wetsuit, the Lavacore line of exposure suits has the characteristics of both, and actually a bit more. Brought to you by the manufacturers of Oceanic and Hollis Scuba Gear, Lavacore is designed to give scuba divers “the best of both worlds”.

Lavacore changes the status quo and adds some “heat” to the wetsuit and drysuit world – literally. Lavacore is designed to be lightweight like a traditional dive skin, but the soft, fleece lining inside provides an extra level of comfort. In essence, it works like a wetsuit to let water in, but unlike a skin, the water is retained adding warmth and comfort. For those wearing a Lavacore suit, it was not only warm, but comfortable without all the “bulk” and added buoyancy of a traditional wetsuit.

Designed by water sports professionals who know the demands and challenges of delivering consistent exposure protection, the Lavacore line can easily be worn as a primary exposure suit in warmer waters or as a supplemental undergarment (underneath a wetsuit or a base layer for a drysuit) in colder waters. Lavacore suits are made from an exclusive POLYTHERM™ material. This tri-laminate material retains water next to the body, allows the fabric to breathe, and yet resists the wind and other natural forces that lead to heat loss.

Divers we spoke to also liked the flexible designs and combinations that Lavacore has made available. The many different styles include full suits, tops, shorts, long-sleeve and short-sleeve options and even matching vests, hoods, and socks. “Female divers like the two-piece Lavacore option which enables them to relax in between dives without having to deal with heavy wetsuits,” said Mark Moran, Academy of Scuba Master Instructor.

During some recent test dives at the Bonne Terre Mines (just outside of St. Louis, MO), the Academy of Scuba staff discovered what everyone is talking about first-hand. The water temperatures in the mine are a stable 56 to 58 degrees. Dives can last upwards of an hour, and generally, you do your surface at the water’s edge (60 degree air temperature) in lieu of walking up and down the many stairs to the surface. With this much cold weather, even the heartiest cold water diver will feel some chill doing multiple dives. For Academy of Scuba, the Bonne Terre Mines is an annual trek. However, this most recent year, many of the divers were wearing Lavacore for the first time. The results: Staggering!

This year, people who felt chilled or mildly cold doing repetitive dives last year were more than comfortable wearing a Lavacore full suit underneath their wetsuit this year. Several of the drysuit divers were wearing it as their sole base layer and actually had to wear their drysuits around their waist to “cool down” during surface intervals. One diver, who the year previous got so cold had to cancel a couple of dives, was not only able to complete all the dives this year, they also came out of a 60 minute dive stating they weren’t cold at all.

Conclusion: Whether you wear it under your wetsuit or drysuit as a base layer to help stay warmer, or you are using it as a sole layer of protection in warmer water, Lavacore will help you stay warmer … longer! Diving is more enjoyable and safer with Lavacore.

Head to your favorite Academy of Scuba location today and suit up in Lavacore!

About the Academy of Scuba

Academy of Scuba Inc, with three locations in Arizona, is a PADI Five Star IDC Training Facility, a DAN Training Center/Business Member, a DEMA Member, and a member of the Better Business Bureau. The Academy of Scuba is an industry innovator for developing, implementing, and reinforcing advanced level Scuba diver training programs. The Academy of Scuba focuses on training with an emphasis to create “great divers”. The sole purpose of the Academy of Scuba is to not just put people in the water, but to keep people in the water. The Academy of Scuba assists divers in increasing enjoyment, adventure, and safety through better education and more frequent dive experiences.

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Posted in Scuba Equipment, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, dive, diver, diving, drysuit, equipment, lavacore, scuba, wetsuit

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 4, 2012

Atomic’s Cobalt Computer Just Became More Colorful!

Get yours online or in one of our stores! Arrives December 10th!

Phoenix, Arizona - Academy of Scuba, an Authorized Dealer for Atomic Aquatics, today announced it will be carrying the new color option for the Atomic Cobalt Computer. If you are looking to spice up your color scheme on your Computer Console, this quick and easy replacement is the perfect complement to your gear’s color palette. The Atomic Cobalt Console Cover replaces the current black cover and adds a splash of blue, red, yellow and/or pink. These covers will be available at ALL Academy of Scuba locations, on December 10th, and in our online store at www.azdivers.com. Pre-order yours today as inventory on the 10th will be limited to these hot, in time for Christmas, items!

Interested in buying your cover right now, go directly to our online store in pick one up today!

Don’t own one of the hottest dive computers in the water today? Learn more about the Atomic Cobalt Computer.

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Posted in Scuba Equipment | Tags: atomic, cobalt, dive computer, diver, diving, equipment, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 3, 2012

Academy of Scuba hosts Handicapped Scuba Instructor Program

Phoenix, Arizona: Academy of Scuba Inc. recently hosted an Instructor Program for the Handicapped Scuba Association (HSA). Instructor Trainer Captain Curt Jablin led our successful candidates on a challenging, adventurous and exciting journey as they learned to adapt to students with special needs. Dive Professionals including Doss Powell, Randall Medders and Amanda Barrier are now certified to work with these students. Academy of Scuba would like to take a moment to recognize and congratulate Doss, Randall and Amanda on all their hard work and dedication.

Founded in 1981, the Handicapped Scuba Association has dedicated itself to improving the physical and social well-being of people with disabilities through the sport of Scuba diving, and in doing so has become the worldwide leading authority in this field. Made up of over 4000 underwater educators, Scuba divers with disabilities and supporting members, located in over 45 countries, the Handicapped Scuba Association is dedicated to assuring that people with disabilities are given the same opportunity to receive quality training, certification and dive adventures as the able-bodied population.

Medders, Jablin, Powell and Barrier. The December 2012 Class for HSA at the Academy of Scuba

Both Powell (through his college program) and Medders will be hosting courses in the first quarter of 2013. Additionally, the Academy of Scuba will be hosting another HSA Instructor Course in January 2013. Please contact training@academyofscuba.com if you are a divemaster or instructor and are interested in participating. For more information on the Handicapped Scuba Association, please go to http://www.hsascuba.com/

To learn more about the College Programs offered by Academy of Scuba and Professor Doss Powell, please go to www.scubaforcollegecredit.com

About the Academy of Scuba

Academy of Scuba Inc, with three locations in Arizona, is a PADI Five Star IDC Training Facility, a DAN Training Center/Business Member, a DEMA Member, and a member of the Better Business Bureau. The Academy of Scuba is an industry innovator for developing, implementing, and reinforcing advanced level Scuba diver training programs. The Academy of Scuba focuses on training with an emphasis to create “great divers”. The sole purpose of the Academy of Scuba is to not just put people in the water, but to keep people in the water. The Academy of Scuba assists divers in increasing enjoyment, adventure, and safety through better education and more frequent dive experiences.

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Posted in Scuba Training, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, diver, handicapped, handicapped scuba, hsa, instructor, scuba, training

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 1, 2012

Academy of Scuba Collects Over 100 Towels for Turtle Hospital

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon, FL (http://www.facebook.com/#!/turtle.hospital.3?fref=ts) put out the call that it was in need of donated white towels to assist with their rescue and

Dominic Diodato with the Towel Donations for the Marathon Florida Sea Turtle Hospital

treatment of sea turtles. Academy of Scuba’s own Dominic Diodato (PADI and Project Aware Instructor) echo’d that call and the Phoenix Dive Community came together to help our friends over 2,000 miles away. Over the last two weeks, the Phoenix Dive Community has dropped off over 100 towels that are being packaged and shipped to Marathon, Florida. The Marathon Turtle Hospital uses white bath towels for the daily care and rehabilitation of the Sea Turtles.

Diodato stated, “I am really excited and proud to be part of such a healthy dive community that cares about the planet’s marine life. I am truly impressed and humbled by how a desert dwelling, landlocked state can respond so quickly and devotedly to a call from Florida. I am glad we can help out.”

Academy of Scuba is committed to helping the Sea Turtle Hospital and will work closely with them to analyze their needs and orchestrate future Towel Drives. Academy of Scuba Inc. would like to personally thank everyone involved in the recent efforts.

Diodato will be teaching a Sea Turtle Awareness Course in February 2012.

Academy of Scuba Inc, with three locations in Arizona, is a PADI Five Star IDC Training Facility, a DAN Training Center/Business Member, a DEMA Member, and a member of the Better Business Bureau. The Academy of Scuba is an industry innovator for developing, implementing, and reinforcing advanced level Scuba diver training programs. The Academy of Scuba focuses on training with an emphasis to create “great divers”. The sole purpose of the Academy of Scuba is to not just put people in the water, but to keep people in the water. The Academy of Scuba assists divers in increasing enjoyment, adventure, and safety through better education and more frequent dive experiences.

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Posted in Scuba Travel, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, arizona, az, marathon fl, phoenix, project aware, Sea Turtle

Posted by: academyofscuba | December 1, 2012

FREE Classes and HUGE SAVINGS for Scuba!

THIS WEEKEND ONLY, don’t miss these incredible deals at Academy of Scuba!

FREE CLASSES

Yes, you read correctly…FREE tuition for the following courses:

Altitude Diver
Underwater Communications
Equipment Specialist

There are 3 upcoming dates in January for EACH course. Space is limited to 10 people per class. Must sign up IN STORE ONLY this weekend. First come, first serve. Does not include any materials, equipment, or manuals or the $25 certification fee. Check out our course calendar in January for specific dates.

Holiday Gift Certificates

Buy a $100 gift certificate for $90 or a $200 gift certificate for $180. You may buy multiple gift certificates.

Equipment Specials

OMS Headlamps only $19.99 OR spend over $200 (including gift certificates) and receive a FREE headlamp
Akona Carry-on Bags only $39.99 with any purchase OR $49.99 without another purchase
20% off Select Custom Drysuits

San Carlos is Selling Out!

Join us on one of our upcoming trips to the beautiful Sea of Cortez this winter. They’re filling up fast, so come in to one of our locations THIS WEEKEND to sign up. $150 secures your spot and the balance is due on January 15. Click Here for more information on these exciting weekend trips.

Holiday Equipment Service Special

Bring your regulator in THIS WEEKEND for its annual service and get a $20 Academy of Scuba gift certificate. Some restrictions apply.

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Posted in Scuba Equipment, Scuba Training, Scuba Travel, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, christmas, diver, equipment, free classes, gift, san carlos, scuba, shopping, specials

Posted by: academyofscuba | October 3, 2012

Patrick Hammer and Academy of Scuba Team Up To Train New PADI Instructors

Phoenix, AZ – The Academy of Scuba today announced that Pat Hammer will join its Professional Development Team. This November, the Academy of Scuba will offer two IDCs at both locations in the Phoenix Metro area. One PADI Instructor Development Course will be held at its Paradise Valley Location with PADI Platinum Course Director, Pat Hammer. The Second PADI Instructor Course will be held at its Metro Center Location, with PADI Course Director, Cynthia Frey.

Follow your dreams or expand your skills. No one in the valley can offer you as much as this team when it comes to PADI Instructor training. Patrick, a PADI Platinum Course Director has been conducting quality education since he became a Course Director back in 1975. Teaming up with Academy of Scuba, the fastest growing PADI Five Star Instructor Development Center in Phoenix, located at 4015 E. Bell Road, Phoenix, AZ, 85032, and TEL: 602-971-3483, allows everyone to share in his experience. Here is a great opportunity for you to expand your skills and become a PADI Assistant Instructor, Instructor, or learn to teach PADI Specialties with one of the most experienced and exciting Course Directors in the industry today. Sign up today. Space in Pat’s IDCs are limited and fill up fast!

We are really pleased to have someone with Pat’s experience and great attitude to be on our team, says Cynthia Frey, Director of Professional Development at the Academy of Scuba. When Pat is around, learning is infectious and his great sense of humor is an added bonus!

Dates for the PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) at the Paradise Valley location are November 3 – 9, and at the Metro Center location beginning on October 20 and covering 3 consecutive weekends. The instructor exam (IE) is on the 10 and 11 of November, in Phoenix. The Academy of Scuba will also be offering an EFR Instructor Program prior to the IDC and Master Scuba Diver Training Courses and DAN Instructor Courses immediately after the Instructor Exam.

Interested candidates should contact the Academy of Scuba and discuss program options, pricing, and required materials. Discount Programs, No Interest Financing, and Veterans Benefits may be available. If you would like to tour either of our PADI Five Star IDC Facilities in the Phoenix area, please contact training@academyofscuba.com or 602.995.5926 to set up an appointment with Ms. Frey.

PADI Course Director and Director of Professional Development, Cynthia Frey, can be contacted directly at cfrey@academyofscuba.com

PADI Platinum Course Director, Patrick Hammer, can be contacted directly at Patrick@scubaemporium.com

For more information about the Academy of Scuba, please go to http://www.academyofscuba.com or http://www.beascubainstructor.com

About The Academy of Scuba™

Academy of Scuba Inc, with three locations in Arizona, is a PADI Five Star IDC Training Facility, a DAN Training Center/Business Member, a DEMA Member, and a member of the Better Business Bureau. The Academy of Scuba is an industry innovator for developing, implementing, and reinforcing advanced level Scuba diver training programs. The Academy of Scuba focuses on training with an emphasis to create “great divers”. The sole purpose of the Academy of Scuba is to not just put people in the water, but to keep people in the water. The Academy of Scuba assists divers in increasing enjoyment, adventure, and safety through better education and more frequent dive experiences.

Press Contact: info@academyofscuba.com

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Posted in Scuba Training, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, arizona, idc, instructor, phoenix, scuba, training

Posted by: academyofscuba | October 2, 2012

Atomic Cobalt Dive Computer Recall – October 2012

Atomic Aquatics has recalled Atomic Cobalt Dive Computers. Scuba divers who purchased these units during the timeframe below should return them to Academy of Scuba for inspection and possibly to be sent back to Atomic for repair. Atomic deeply regrets this necessary action. Academy of Scuba will do everything possible to ensure Atomic Aquatics speedily returns your dive computer to you. If you have any questions, please contact one of our Dive Centers.

From Atomic Aquatics:

Atomic Aquatics have decided to initiate a recall on the Cobalt Dive Computer after discovering a possible assembly problem that could cause the high pressure sensor to leak. Although

Atomic Cobat Computer

Atomic expects the percentage of units with this problem is small, the defect is serious enough that we feel it is necessary to recall and inspect as many units as possible to ensure customer safety and satisfaction. Fortunately the defect is easy to identify and we hope that you will cooperate with us to minimize the inconvenience to the customer. The computer may be returned to Atomic for inspection, but doing it at the retail store is simple and will expedite the process for your customer. Having a Cobalt in the affected serial number range does not mean it is defective, but that it should be inspected for the defect. Any computers found with this defect must not be used and returned to the factory for repair or replacement.

On Cobalts that pass the inspection, change the top cover to the new style per the attached instructions. Report the serial number and owner’s information on the reporting form. Return the Cobalt to the customer.

This recall affects all units manufactured between May 31, 2010 and April 16, 2012. Serial Lots 2210-XXXX through 1612-XXXX.

Includes Lot Numbers (first 4 digits of serial number)

2210 / 2910 / 4010 / 4710 / 5010 / 1111 / 1711 / 2611 / 2811 / 3211 / 3311 / 3411 / 3511 / 3611 / 3711 / 3811 / 3911 / 4011 / 4111 / 4211 / 4511 / 4611 / 5211 / 0812 / 1112 / 1212 / 1312 / 1412 / 1612

Affected units: Affected units that require inspection can be identified by the first four digits in the serial number. To view the serial number, turn the unit on and go to “Main Menu/ Settings/System Information.”

The serial number is four numbers followed by a dash (-) and four more numbers. Example 2210-1234

The first 4 numbers of the serial number is the date of manufacture, week (2 digits) followed by the year (2 digits).

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter!

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Posted in Scuba Equipment | Tags: atomic, computer, dive, diver, diving, equipment, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | September 19, 2012

San Carlos Trip Report: August 27, 2012

As a diver, it’s hard for San Carlos not to creep into your heart. The Sea Lion interaction alone sets this tiny little hamlet apart from many dive destinations. San Carlos is a completely unique and highly interactive marine life experience. While it is impossible for any dive travel provider to guarantee a marine life interaction, the rookery at San Pedro Island in San Carlos makes it almost possible.

In June and July, Sea Lion pups start entering the waters of San Carlos. Followed by the playful mothers, the pups mimic their mother’s actions. It’s safe to say the Sea Lions of San Carlos grow up with divers making daily treks to their rookery. As divers giant stride into the various coves and bays surrounding San Carlos, bubbles from the divers become a virtual playground for the pups (and their moms too). Adding to the ambience, off in the distance you can hear the grumpy papa Sea Lions barking at the noisy charter boats and excited divers interrupting their late morning nap (quickly followed by their early afternoon nap).

As the divers planned out their routes, suited up with their buddy, and started their dive, it was clear a Sea Lion, or two, were going to hi jack their dive. Sea Lions often became unplanned members on the dive team. With all the excitement of the Sea Lion interaction, our divers still had time to swim along with turtles, seahorses, mating damselfish, and more.

With water temps in the mid to upper 80s, air temps in the high 90s, calm seas, and visibility that reached 70 to 100 feet in some places, this trip to San Carlos had all the makings of … “ the best trip ever.” San Carlos welcomed our 16 divers with open arms this weekend. The smiles on the faces of our dive vacationers were clear evidence of the quality of diving available.

As the sun goes down in San Carlos, this tiny beach resort town is open to plenty of fun, excitement, and adventure. Whether you prefer a quiet walk on the beach, a live band at a beach bar like the Soggy Peso, or a great local meal at one of the many restaurants in town, San Carlos is not just a great dive destination, it is a great vacation.

San Carlos is just 240 miles south of the Arizona border with Mexico on the Sonora Coastline. An American Friendly town, it should be on the perennial list to visit for every diver in the Southwest United States. Interested in going to San Carlos? Check out our upcoming San Carlos trips in 2013 at http://www.underwatervacations.com.

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Posted in Local Diving, Scuba Travel | Tags: academy of scuba, desitination, dive, diver, diving, san carlos, scuba diving, travel, trip, underwater vacations

Posted by: academyofscuba | September 5, 2012

Academy of Scuba’s THREE Arizona Locations Named PADI 5-Star IDCs

Growing dive training and retail facility continues to be a force in the Southwest United States

(Phoenix, AZ) – Responding to a growing demand for quality scuba diver and professional level training in Arizona and the desert Southwest, the Academy of Scuba has announced that its three locations in Arizona have been designated PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Centers. With facilities at Metro Center in Phoenix, Paradise Valley/Scottsdale and the latest location in Bullhead City/Laughlin/Lake Mohave, Academy of Scuba has aggressively grown to meet consumer demand in the region.
According to Academy of Scuba Chief Operating Officer, John Flanders, “We are pleased to have been recognized by PADI, the industry’s training leader, as facilities that are worthy of this prestigious rating. The entire Academy of Scuba team is dedicated to providing a higher level of professional training, service and opportunities.”
Flanders points out that innovation is a major part of the Academy of Scuba plans. To that end, the technology team has recently unveiled http://www.beascubainstructor.com as a portal for divers looking to advance their education and realize the dream of becoming a Scuba instructor.

About The Academy of Scuba™

Academy of Scuba Inc, with three locations in Arizona, is a PADI Five Star IDC Training Facility, a DAN Training Center/Business Member, a DEMA Member, and a member of the Better Business Bureau. The Academy of Scuba is an industry innovator for developing, implementing, and reinforcing advanced level Scuba diver training programs. The Academy of Scuba focuses on training with an emphasis to create “great divers”. The sole purpose of the Academy of Scuba is to not just put people in the water, but to keep people in the water. The Academy of Scuba assists divers in increasing enjoyment, adventure, and safety through better education and more frequent dive experiences.

Press Contact: info@academyofscuba.com

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Posted in Scuba Training, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, dive, diver, diving, instructor, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | August 29, 2012

Demo Gear from Hollis, Sealife, Bladefish and more on Academy of Scuba’s Catalina Liveaboard Trip

Next month Academy of Scuba’s liveaboard trip to Catalina Island will be filled with some amazing demos!

Our trip to Catalina a couple weekends ago was outstanding, and in September we’re heading back. We’ll be diving off the Great Escape liveaboard dive boat and there will be an extra special treat on this trip. You’ll have the opportunity to try out equipment from Hollis, SeaLife, and Bladefish.

Hollis will have a large variety of gear on board. You’ll be able to try regulators, computers, BCDs, backplate and wing systems, and our featured trial of the trip will be sidemount systems. See for yourself what it’s like to dive with two tanks in a sidemount configuration.

If underwater photography is something you’re interested in, then this is a great chance for you to learn more. We’ll have plenty of SeaLife cameras and camera packages available for you to try and buy. There will be trip specials if you purchase your own camera that weekend on the boat. Additionally, we will be holding a raffle for a SeaLife DC1400 Underwater Camera. If you’re on the trip roster, you will be automatically entered into the raffle.

Finally, we’ll have the Bladefish diver propulsion vehicle on board. Go a little farther and a little faster when you feel what it’s like to effortlessly cruise around the kelp forests.

This will be an incredible trip. Join the Academy of Scuba crew and don’t miss out on the spectacular diving, unique product demos, and the camaraderie with fellow divers! Click Here to sign up today! Space is limited.

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Posted in Scuba Equipment, Scuba Travel, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: catalina, demo, dive, dive gear, diver, diving, equipment, scuba, scuba equipment

Posted by: academyofscuba | August 18, 2012

Phantom Braided High Pressure Hose Recall

Academy of Scuba was not a major seller of these hoses. However, we feel obliged to share this important information with the diving community.

Innovative Scuba Concepts distributes braided high pressure hoses under the “Phantom” brand name. We have been notified by the hose manufacturer that they are initiating a Consumer Products Safety Commission Recall for braided high pressure hoses that they manufactured during certain date code ranges listed below. The failure mode is that the hose can burst at the crimp fitting that attaches to the first stage. When this occurs breathing gas is let out of the tank at an uncontrolled rate and may result in severe injury or death due to drowning.

Note this recall applies only to the specific 11Q3, 11Q4, and 12Q1 lots of double braided flexible high pressure SCUBA hoses that are intended for use with submersible pressure gauges (SPG). This recall does NOT affect other double braided low pressure regulator hoses, BCD inflator hoses, even those that have the same date code stamps as the high pressure hoses, and does NOT apply to any rubber hose nor to any Miflex brand hoses.

Rather than wait for the CPSC recall to go into effect, and while only a small number of hoses have actually been returned with this defect, we are proceeding with an abundance of caution to notify all Innovative Scuba Dealers who may have purchased these hoses to check their inventory of Phantom High Pressure hoses as follows:

Examine the high pressure hose male fitting that screws into the regulator first stage. The hex is stamped with a manufacturing date code (see picture below) . The following manufacturing date codes are subject to recall: 11Q3, 11Q4 and 12Q1.
If your braided high pressure hose has any of the above 3 date code stamps immediately remove the hose from your inventory. To return the hoses for free replacement please visit our web site: www.innovativescuba.com and download the Return Authorization Form, fill it out and send it to us with the affected hoses. Or, feel free to contact us (see below) at any time.
Contact any customers who may have purchased Phantom High Pressure hoses from you from August 1, 2011 until now and advise them to check the date stamp and immediately remove the hose from the tank if it is subject to recall. They too may visit our website and fill out the Return Authorization Form and return it to us with the affected hose for free replacement. Or they can contact us directly if they prefer. If consumers return affected hoses directly to you we will of course send you free replacements upon return of the hose(s) to Innovative Scuba Concepts, Inc.
We are currently working with the manufacturer to determine when replacement hoses will be delivered and will let you know as soon as we have a firm delivery date.

Questions? Please contact retail@academyofscuba.com

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Posted in Scuba Equipment | Tags: dive, diver, equipment, innovative, phantom, recall, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | August 3, 2012

Academy of Scuba Opens Third Location in Bullhead City, Arizona / Lake Mohave

Phoenix, AZ / Bullhead City, AZ – The Academy of Scuba and Lake Mohave Scuba have jointly announced today that the two companies have merged to form Academy of Scuba – Lake Mohave.

For over two years Lake Mohave Scuba and Academy of Scuba have enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship sharing resources, cooperating on trips, and ushering eager divers into the underwater world. The merging of the two corporate entities is just a natural progression to the continued growing relationship.

Lake Mohave Scuba and Academy of Scuba have the highest quality training programs in the industry. Since Lake Mohave Scuba has opened, the two companies have worked closely on developing these training programs. Because of this close working relationship, there are no plans to make any major changes to the training curriculum.

The New Academy of Scuba – Lake Mohave will provide added benefits to local Lake Mohave divers by adding new vendors, broader resources to advanced level training, more trips to more exotic locations, and access to the same folks with whom you enjoy diving with already.

The New Academy of Scuba – Lake Mohave will also benefit divers from the Phoenix Metro area and other points around Arizona. Now, Phoenix based divers have a hub or gateway in which they can easily and affordably access the great diving and more high quality training opportunities just a few hours North.

Lake Mohave offers some of the finest fresh water diving in the United States. With clear waters, interesting dive sites with plenty to see, professional service from our dive shop, and just minutes from Laughlin Nevada, Lake Mohave is a perfect destination for you to visit on your next weekend dive trip or training course!

On September 29^th, 2012, Academy of Scuba – Lake Mohave will be hosting a block party and BBQ to celebrate this new partnership.

About The Academy of Scuba™

The Academy of Scuba, with three locations in Arizona, is a PADI Five Star IDC Training Facility, a DAN Training Center/Business Member, a DEMA Member, and a member of the Better Business Bureau. The Academy of Scuba is an industry innovator for developing, implementing, and reinforcing advanced level Scuba diver training programs. The Academy of Scuba focuses on training with an emphasis to create “great divers”. The sole purpose of the Academy of Scuba is to not just put people in the water, but to keep people in the water. The Academy of Scuba assists divers in increasing enjoyment, adventure, and safety through better education and more frequent dive experiences.

Press Contact: John Flanders – info@academyofscuba.com

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Posted in Scuba Training, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, bullhead city, lake mohave, lake mohave scuba, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | July 21, 2012

Phoenix Dive Socials Announced for the Month of August

Posted by: academyofscuba | June 24, 2012

Trip Report: Catalina Liveaboard May 2012

Written by Tania Land Photos Courtesy of Matthew Dodson

This May, Academy of Scuba divers gathered in Los Angeles at the 22nd Street Landing to board the Great Escape liveaboard charter en route to Santa Catalina Island for a three day, three night, all- inclusive diving vacation.

On Thursday evening, divers hauled their bags of gear on the wheel barrel carts provided and loaded the eighty-foot vessel in anticipation for the underwater world awaiting them beyond the Los Angeles coastline. Many of the divers on board were embarking on their very first ocean voyage including Evan Bloomingdale, Paul Buttermore, Caitlin Ditwiler, Tom Herrschaft, Shawn Jurgens and Tania Land. The vast Pacific Ocean is a truly amazing place to enjoy an underwater adventure, weaving through the dense kelp forests teeming with a beautiful array of living colors making up a uniquely diverse marine ecosystem. As the divers settled in, a few retired early to rest from their journey in preparation for the next day’s dives. Some gathered on the bow for a few beers and some friendly conversation while others sat in the galley for a nightcap and a game of Cards Against Humanity. The laughter continued well into the night until the diehard stragglers finally hit their bunks into the late evening.

Everyone awoke early the next day to the smell of brewing coffee, freshly made omelets and bacon prepared by Mike, the cook. Captain Tim fired up the engines around seven and we were off to Catalina Island. The sun was bright and the air was warm on our first day as we arrived at the island and set anchor at Torqua Springs for dive one. With water at sixty degrees and a floor of sixty feet, it was a perfect site to kick off the diving. The underwater world below was illuminated by the glinting of the California sunshine through the calm salty waters. Divers were greeted by the notorious bright orange Garbaldi, shimmering schools of mackerel, starfish in all colors of the rainbow and sea urchins as far as the eye could see.

Diving continued throughout the day in what can only be described as INCREDIBLE.

On Friday night, we all suited up for a memorable night dive. With Hotsuits primed and lights ready, we jumped into the dark waters and went exploring. The bottom was crawling with shrimp and lobster. Their eyes would catch the glare of our dive lights, sparkling like diamonds scattered along the ocean floor. The flying fish had come out to play as well. The divers that opted to stay on board gathered at the back of the boat to watch the fish fling themselves out of the water and soar through the air with seemingly no sense of direction. The fish would occasionally hit the back of the boat, stunning themselves just long enough for the sea lions to swoop up from the depths and catch them in their jaws. It was an exciting scene. One diver was caught by surprise as one of the fish that had made in on deck smacked him right on the back. The divers below were also occasionally pelted by a few of these clumsy creatures.

After the day’s excitement, the divers were spent and everyone was in bed early and sleeping soundly. The next day, we rose to another delicious meal and divers were anxious to get back in the water. After each dive, our chef Mike, hand-prepared delicious snacks for everyone. We had the pleasure of enjoying monkey bread! A wonderfully gooey, pull-apart bread drenched in butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. This delightful treat lasted mere seconds on the baking pan as divers swooped in like gulls and devoured every last bit. Nothing goes to waste in the ocean. There was plenty else to eat as Mike was hard at work in the kitchen from sunrise to sunset. Each of the three meals, two snacks and dessert enjoyed every day was proudly served with a kind smile and skills that would put Iron Chef to shame. He was even prepared with accommodations for the vegetarians on board!

Later that day, we pulled into Isthmus Cove. Divemaster Jason Zambo was jumping up and down in anticipation for this dive, “This is my favorite spot. It’s awesome!” He was right about this dive site. Isthmus Reef is tucked away in a cove on the north side of the island. The site draws much boat traffic and for good reason. After descending along the anchor line and venturing through the sunlit kelp, we crept along the side of the wall alive with activity. The wall that we explored here was covered in starfish, blue-banded gobies, anemones and keyhole limpet snails. As the divers boarded the boat, we all gathered on the bow, watching the hustle and bustle in of the cove and waiting for the remaining divers to surface. Soon Shaun and Caitlin made it to the surface, a bit nervos. A few sea lions, curious about the two divers, had been harmlessly playing with Shaun and Caitlin under the water and following them during their dive, swiftly darting through the water. Everyone on board burst into laughter as we watched the playful sea lions leaping in and out of the water in a circle around the divers.

It was unanimous, the amazing crew made this a vacation that all will cherish and remember. Special thanks go to Mark Moran and Doss Powell for all of their preparation and hard work in organizing this trip and their steadfast attentiveness and oversight during the training and fun dives. Evan Coppola was always prepared with a witty quip or, occasionally, just the tip you were looking for. Of course, Tom Herrschaft claimed to have done “the best dive ever”…again. I know I’m not the only diver that willl be booking my spot with Academy of Scuba on one of the best dive charters in Southern California, the Great Escape.

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Posted in Scuba Travel | Tags: california, catallina, dive, diver, diving, liveaboard, scuba, travel, trips

Posted by: academyofscuba | June 11, 2012

Lake Pleasant Dive Conditions – 11 Jun 2012

Lake Pleasant Continues to have very good conditions as the weather heats up.

On Sunday, June 10, 2012, a group of Academy of Scuba divers were out at Lake Pleasant at Vista Point (on the East side of the lake) and reported the following conditions:

Surface Temperature: 78 Degrees (f)

Visibility: @ 25 feet: 20 feet

Thermocline: @ 32 feet

Temperature @ 60 feet: approx 60 degrees with ambient light

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Posted in Local Diving, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: arizona, dive, diver, diving, lake pleasant, local diving, peoria, phoenix, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | June 6, 2012

Academy of Scuba to host free seminar by Divers Alert Network

Divers Alert Network President, Dan Orr, to present on Dive Fatalities and How to Prevent Them.

Phoenix, AZ: June 6, 2012

- Academy of Scuba today announced that on Thursday June 21 at 630pm, Divers Alert Network, Dan Orr, will

present a review of nearly 1,000 diver fatalities from DAN’s database identifying the triggering event and subsequent steps that turned an otherwise enjoyable dive into an emergency.

This presentation will also discuss prevention of diving accidents. Despite the seriousness of the topic, the presentation is also entertaining! This is a great tool for every diver’s gear bag. Understanding what causes dive accidents is a first step in preventing them. The Academy of Scuba is truly honored to welcome Dan to our dive community. His experience and great presentation skills will certainly be a valuable experience for all of us.

Dan Orr, Divers Alert Network

Dan Orr is President of Divers Alert Network (DAN). Orr came to Divers Alert Network in 1991 as Director of Training, responsible for developing and implementing DAN training programs including the internationally successful DAN Oxygen First Aid Course. Prior to coming to DAN, he was the Associate Diving Officer at Florida State University and, before that, he was Director of Diver Training Programs at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. Dan has Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Biology and has authored and contributed to many books and magazine articles including co-author of Scuba Diving Safety and DAN’s Pocket Guide for Diving Safety series.The seminar will take place at Academy of Scuba’s Paradise Valley Location at 40th Street and Bell Road.

If you have any questions, please contact the Academy of Scuba. RSVP is requested.

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Posted in Scuba Training, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: accident, dan, dive, diver, divers alert network, diving, free, scuba, seminar, training

Posted by: academyofscuba | May 31, 2012

Lake Pleasant Scuba Diving Conditions – 31 May 2012

Vista Point Lake Pleasant Update:

Great surface conditions. 74 degrees with about 15 to 20 foot visibility. Thermocline at about 6 feet drops it down about 1 degree. Comfortable in a 3mm.

There is a thick and murky thermocline at 32 to 37 feet where visibility deteriorates, but still has 5 to 10 foot.

Once you break through the 37 foot thermocline, visibility improves upwards to 30 feet (the deeper you). However, it is a bit darker and temps reduce below 60 degrees. We had decent ambient light at 100 feet and water temp was a brisk 52 degrees.

Truly the coolest spot in Arizona … Have a great weekend diving!

For up to date conditions for Arizona dive locations, go to www.academyofscuba.com

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Posted in Scuba Training, Scuba Travel | Tags: arizona, conditions, diver, diving, lake pleasant, local diving, scuba

Posted by: academyofscuba | May 6, 2012

Day 1 – Long Beach Scuba Show

It’s easy to get lost in Long Beach, California. And, when you do, hope you find your way to the area known as “The Pike”.

Several blocks of downtown Long Beach, wedged between the convention center and the aquarium, is a nice little area known as The Pike. What is The Pike? It can easily be described as a large outdoor mall with a Food Court on steroids. Whether you are looking for an old favorite like Chilis or Islands Restaurant, or you are looking for something a little more exotic, it seems to have found its way to the The Pike. Several hotels are nestled into the area and make it a great launching point to visit the Long Beach Scuba Show at the Convention Center.

There is a lot of passion for Scuba diving in this neck of the woods. Californians come from all over the state to visit this great two-day event. However, there are a fair amount of license plates from Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Oregon and other surrounding areas as well. This is much more than a local trade show set to inspire diving in the lucky few who live close by.

The Long Beach Scuba Show has a reputation of drawing a good-sized crowd, and 2012 seems to be a year to exceed expectations.

Standing in line around 945am, it wasn’t hard to notice that this year would have great attendance. It was a long line with some very anxious divers. Vendors were rolling by with their last-minute items to put into their booths, and you could tell they were working hard to get everything together before the 10am opening. When the doors to the trade show opened, you can hear the enthusiasm like the starters gun to the Kentucky Derby. As divers funneled in, the vendors were ready to receive them.

As you walked through the turnstile, the show sponsor, California Diving News was the first booth in your sights. A good place to stop and grab your brochure bag. Usually, I am pretty hesitant to grab a bag, hoping to keep my brochure pile low. Trying to stay green this year. However, it wasn’t very long into the show, where I ended up having to go back and find one. Vendors had a lot of high quality information, and I guess there is always recycling when i am done using it.

Crowded? Yes it was. Within one hour of the start of the show, I had already seen a dozen old friends, had my foot stepped on three times and was run into by at least two other people. While many folks would consider this a negative, I found this to be a benchmark to the following two facts: (1) divers were interested in doing business with vendors, (2) diving is becoming more popular. Plus, there were a lot of people looking around. Not necessarily in front of them.

There were over 8 rows which included dozens of dive vendors, manufacturers and destinations in each row. Each one had something special to discuss and often-times would lead into a mini seminar with several people gathering around to hear the lecture. After Sunday’s show, we will highlight many of the vendors and what the new, innovative and favorite products were for everyone at the show.

Have a great Sunday!!!

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Posted in Scuba Equipment, Scuba Training, Scuba Travel, What's New @ The Academy | Tags: academy of scuba, california, dive, diver, diving, long beach, scuba, scuba show, southwest

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