Today us DIT’s (Divers in Training) finally completed our PADI Open Water Certifications! The morning began with another sunrise at 6am, and training and tests at 6:30. This morning consisted of our third and fourth dives to 60 and 40 feet, respectively. All went well, and we came back to shore water logged and proud.

As great as the bottom floor is, so is the reef itself. Later in the day, some of the class ventured to the reef barrier for a look. Tropical reefs are hotspots for biodiversity all over the planet, harboring life from microscopic algae to hammerhead sharks. After diving with air, it was time to start free-diving… And take some really amazing pictures! All thanks to the reef itself of course.

Exploring the outer reef of Discovery Bay!

The reef was covered in fish of all shapes and sizes, as well as algae, sea urchins (Diadema antillarum), numerous corals, as well as a friendly balloonfish (Diodon holocanthus). I have grown up in a family of fisherman and divers, but never have I had the opportunity to see such a diverse reef. It really is amazing to see a few of the things this ecosystem has to offer up close and in person, like octopi and sea turtles. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the week has to bring!

-“Starfruit” Sascha