Snorkel With Sharks in Haleiwa

I can't say enough good things about this organization; look no further than One Ocean Diving. Had a phenomenal time with a phenomenal crew: Captain Liko, photographer Bret, and dive leaders Haley and Gina. They were upbeat, knowledgable, and clearly have a solid working chemistry together; the vibe on board was nothing shy of aloha. We encountered a choppy sea due to the storms, but Bret still got great photos of everyone given the challenge of shooting; light constantly shifts and dramatically affects dimension and depth underwater. We were surrounded by dozens of beautiful Galapagos and pelagic blacktips. As a surfer who also enjoys scuba and freediving but hadn't dived for over a decade, this trip was the perfect way to re-ignite that love for being beneath the surface as well. Bret was great about helping me troubleshoot my freedive gear -- I was out of practice-- and my lack of preparation had me switching over to the provided fins and mask for a much smoother experience. I have a tendency to get seasick on dive boats (as a surfer, don't ask me why), but the crew was supportive, kind and patient, especially Captain Liko. If this happens to you, too, just take it in stride: you'll be able to claim you left a part of yourself back in Oahu. If you're apprehensive about booking a trip, know this: the dive leaders and photographers are fully shark and rescue trained and they receive a long and extensive training to meet that standard; it is clear that they are VERY selectively picked by the founders. They'll also give you a meaningful debriefing on board, setting a tone that makes safety a priority as a way of enhancing your excitement about getting in. Nearly everyone on board was a return diver; can't wait to call myself one, too. I immediately booked a freedive refresher course for when I returned to San Diego. I had hoped to meet Ocean Ramsey and Juan Oliphant on this dive, but as I understand it, they're further engaged with their research and outreach efforts. Still, to dive with a warm crew that reflects their vision and purpose as presented in the "Shark Whisperer" was just as much of a privilege. Mahalo, One Ocean Diving. I couldn't have picked better. I'll definitely be back. Much love and aloha.

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