It was time to do my Deep Dive, although we had to wait for favourable weather conditions and it was low tide, with a full moon just a few days before. Le Capitaine skilfully maneuverer our boat to deeper waters as we set off to Anemone Garden where we could reach 30 metres. Weather conditions still kept us inside the reef. 

After my 25 metre dive and the onset of a light narcosis, I decided to detox the day before and not drink any medication before the dive. Even my chronic meds, which should not have any effect on me. So with a positive and focused attitude I started my descent. I felt comfortable knowing that my instructor was fully capable to deal with any situation that might arise. At my first glance down I noticed a Blue Parrotfish to my right and I knew everything would be just fine.

We descended slowly along the reef until we reached 30 metres at the sandy bottom where my buddy and I kneeled and were asked to write our names on a slate. I did not have any of the effects of confusion that I had in the 25 metre dive and was absolutely elated at the thought that my body allowed me to be at 30 metres.

We got our handshakes from our trainer and as a result of my air consumption had to start our ascent immediately to stay out of no stop time while making a controlled ascent. Part of the training was that I had to swop regulators and go on to the pony bottle for the safety stop. Just as well as my air consumption needs major improvement! Regulator swopping between mine, a buddy’s octo regulator or that of a pony bottle has never been an issue for me. I am perhaps even too relaxed about not having a regulator in my mouth!   

Although I was on a training dive, I was on Anemone Garden, a site that never disappoints with a variety of fish. There were baby Lionfish, a Trumpet fish hanging upside down, my favourite black damsels and even Moorish Idol Fish which I could distinguish from the banner fish (I always feel good about that!).The ball sponges were lying around as though baskets full were dropped at the site!

Back on board I had such a sense of achievement. We had a 50 min dive and although only briefly, I was down at 30 metres and extremely grateful that my body was as happy about it as my mind!

by Lynette Gerber-Lochenkov