Sporting Barbados caught up with Edwin Blackman, a PADI MSDT 1552788 NASE Mi instructor and Manager at High Tide Diving in the Coral Reef Hotel, Holetown, St. James. He has loads of experience under the waters around Barbados and is an expert in the field of diving.
Why should anyone come to Barbados to dive?
Barbados is the ‘hidden gem’! Many who come here to dive can’t believe how much Barbados has to offer. There are loads of unexplored diving sites and much to see in beautiful clear waters.
Where are the best sites?
The Stavronikita on the west coast is a very large, mature shipwreck. It’s 365 feet long and lies upright in 135 feet of water on a sandy bottom. It can have a strong current, so it’s not suitable for novices.
The Pamir, also on the west coast, is good for a recreational dive. It stands in 40-50 feet of water and is home to many sergeant major fish.
Carlisle Bay has seven shipwrecks close to the beach and is great for diving and snorkeling.
In the north of the island, near the Cement Factory, is another great spot for photography with frequently sighted seahorses and frogfish. All over the island, there are coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and viewing thriving sea life.
On the south coast, you can visit the broken wreck called Friars Craig, which lies 40-60 feet deep. For more information on diving sites, see Barbados Dive Guide by Lucy Agace, available islandwide.
Is it expensive to dive here, and what about safety?
It’s not expensive at all. As far as safety is concerned, all operators are certified and trained by the top international diving agencies, PADI and NAUI. Barbados also has a Hyperbaric Chamber located at the Barbados Defence Force HQ in the Garrison. This special health unit deals with any emergency issues.
There is much publicity about possible damage to our coral reefs from environmental changes. What is happening to stop this?
The Government has launched many projects, including focusing on the Blue Economy in association with the University of the West Indies, Coastal Management, and the National Conservation Commission. Education on water resources, drainage, the environment, and the coast is being pushed in schools and the community.
What about the turtles that visitors so like to swim with?
These friendly creatures are found all around the island and are often encouraged to swim close to the boats for visitors to enjoy sightings. While any official turtle projects are currently on hold, we do record turtles spotted during dives.
If you are walking the beach and see baby turtles that have hatched, please call the 24-hour TURTLE hotline at 230-0142. Their team will come and collect them.
So call Edwin at High Tide Diving and schedule your Barbados diving adventure today! A world of diving thrills awaits you!
Photos courtesy of Hightide Water Sports.
