03 June,2010 07:35 AM IST | | Fiona Fernandez
No traffic jams, no pesky crowds, only scenic locales. Mumbaiites can enjoy this dream-like sequence, courtesy scuba diving sessions right here in the city. The Trip gives you the low down to be a pro, down under
Fancy playing hide-and-seek with the flying mantas or catch-up with sea turtles. Such visions aren't far from becoming a reality if you sign up for a scuba diving course, right here in Mumbai.
u00a0
If this isn't incentive enough, then by April 2011, your scuba diving destination just moved closer, with Maharashtra's State Tourism Board gung ho about its first facility in Tarkarli's waters (see box).
India's waters have been home to SCUBA (self contained underwater breathing apparatus) diving for nearly 16 years now.
Lacadive, founded by Adman Prahlad Kakkar introduced this concept with three dive centres Kadmat, Bangaram (Lakshadweep) and Havelock (Andaman Islands).
u00a0
Goa and the Gulf of Kutch are also smaller regions suitable for this activity. Though, most ideal scuba diving destinations are further away from the mainland, where coral and marine life can thrive.
To become a Scuba Diver
The Life Aquatic with Lacadives is a newly formed company that looks after inland pool training, equipment sales and dive travel and together (with Lacadive) ensure that Mumbaiites get a slice of underwater paradise.
u00a0
Belgian born Jurgen van Duffel heads The Life Aquatic with Lacadives operations as the main instructor in Mumbai for the initial training programme, conducted in swimming pools across the city.
u00a0
Jurgen explains that after theory and pool training sessions, participants are taken on trips where they are certified in open waters.
Alternatively, they are sent to Lacadive's Dive Centres, where the final training is conducted by one of their instructors.
u00a0
The entire course lasts for 4-5 days and can be suitably modified. Post this extensive training, one is certified with an Open Water License (depth: 18m) where the holder can dive in any destination around the world.
u00a0
If interested divers wish to dive at any of Lacadive's destinations within India or overseas, with their overseas partners, arrangements (dive training and travel) are made.
Dos and Don'ts to Scuba Dive
A basic level of swimming is a must
Undergo a valid training programme to obtain a license
Adhere to the standards and guidelines do not deviate from these or it can get dangerous
Respect and follow the training manual
Respect the environment you are in; you are not the master of the ocean
In April 2011, the azure waters off Tarkarli's coast will play host to Maharashtra's first scuba diving facility, initiative by the State Tourism Board. The project aims to train professional scuba divers who will take tourists into the deep sea off Tarkarli and help them swim underwater.
Learn from the experts
Life Aquatic with Lacadive: www.lifeaquaticlacadive.com
Approximate cost: Rs 18-28,000 (4-day Open Water License Course)
Dive Goa: Call 09325030110, www.divegoa.com
Coming soon! The dive shop in Mumbai
With Dive Shops in 3 of Lacadive's dive destinations, The Life Aquatic with Lacadives will set shop in Mumbai, on June 11. Train with the best in a fun and safe environment. This one-stop shop for diving needs will stock equipment including masks, snorkels, fins, wetsuits, underwater cameras and the best diving gear. The shop helps you explore waters from Egypt to Malaysia or gain PADI or CMAS certifications from a dedicated team of trainers as they walk you from your first dive to your purchase. Shorter courses for first-timers are also organised.
What you can find at the Dive Shop
Mask Tusa Visualator, Snorkel Tusa Platina 2 Hyerdry, Booties Tusa, Fins Tusa Imprex Tri Ex, Mask Strap Neoprene Tusa, Dry Bag (51, 1010, 201), Digital 1.3MP Underwater Camera Intova and Shorty Wetsuit 3mm Aqualung Mahe.
AT: 14-C Bungalow, Boran Road, opposite Elco Market, off Hill Road, Bandra West, Mumbai 50. Call:u00a0 9892583615.
Mail: info@lifeaquaticlacadives.com. Log on to: www.lifeaquaticlacadives.com
