Posted by Chris on January 08, 2003 at 20:33:32:
In Reply to: looking for Good Dive Certification school posted by Laurie on January 07, 2003 at 17:12:59:
Laurie,
In choosing a first dive class, the key is to choose a good instructor, the school is almost secondary since the requierments for the intoductory courses are very similar.
It is unfortunate that there are many instructors that can hardy dive, I have rescued many when I have worked as a DM.
It is also true that most dive facilities have several insturctors working for them. It is best to insist on the one you want and not accept anyone.
Below I listed some instructors in your area who I know can dive well, and have good teaching reputations.
Please go and meet the instructor and make sure you will be comfortable learning skills your life will depend on from them.
I can personally reccomend Steve Sanford at Sea d Sea in Redondo Beach.
Everyone I have sent to him has been very satisfied.
I have dove with him on many occasions and he is an excellent diver, somthing which unfortunatly many divers are not.
Ken Kurtis at Reef Seekers would also be a good choice for your first class.
Although I do not always agree with his polices, he will do a good job for your first class.
Dalia who teaches out of Ventrua Dive & Sport is also a good instructor.
Bill Prey who teachs through Sport Chalet is also a good instructor.
Gabriel at Ocena Safari in San Gabriel is a good instructor.
.... Chris