The June 28 Egmont Dive: by Edith Tobe
It's 5:15 in the morning. We've just had a millennia of rain, but this
morning there is a gentle mist over the valley. By 6:00 we're all loaded
up
and on our way (or so I imagine each driver is assuming of the other) as
our two convoys of six people are heading out to explore Francis Peninsula
and Egmont. We hit the highway, and it's sunshine and clear skies all the
way!
It's a good idea to aim for the 7:20 Langdale Ferry. That way, if you miss
the first ferry (it was the July long weekend after all...) you can pick
up
the 8:00 Ferry (very good strategy).
Our dive group consisted of Don D., Steve D., Barb and Mike, Gary W. and
Edith T. The first dive was at Francis Peninsula. My kind of dive. Park
at
the top of the road, easy trek down to the shore, and nice straight forward
access into the water. AND THEN A BEAUTIFUL WALL DIVE. WOW!
Steve and I saw no less than 4 octopus, some more inquisitive than others,
but all a fairly good size. Don and Barb saw moonsnails cruising along the
bottom and Gary and Mike saw some interesting sculpins. This is definitely
a place I will be returning to. Tons to see, easy to navigate, beautiful
surroundings;
everything to make you feel great to be alive. Yup, it's a tough life.
Our next dive was at Egmont. Having never been to Egmont before, Steve
suggested that I take the ground tour - it's a good thing I didn't blink.
We headed down to the marina and grabbed lunch while Don checked the tide
tables and went over the strategy. I won't go over the details but to say
the currents are quite interesting in this section. A most excellent reef
dive, huge fronds of kelp and a rich variety of fish and marine life
abounding every which way you can look. At one point Steve pointed up and
I
was amazed to find that we were swimming beneath a carpet of minnows
(herring?). At another point I was lagging somewhat behind Steve and
catching up to him when I was curious to notice that his diving light was
beginning a rather nice ascent to the surface. Well, a quick rescue later
I
was able to shine the light onto Steve to get his attention. I think it
took him a moment to realize he was being hailed by his own light. A quick
return later (this time the light securely strapped to his wrist), and we
carried on.
Two most excellent dives and an absolutely exquisite day to boot. Who could
ask for more.
Happy diving.
Edith.