Below are some typical details of a RSAC dive trip out of Portland.
Meeting Details:For Saturday divers, the meeting point is at 0930 in the berth holders' car park at Portland Marina. You can get into your dry suit and load your gear onto a trolley for transport to the boat. Please remember to bring a £1 coin for the trolley. Once you arrive, grab the first available trolley as they are limited in number. Let me know when you arrive and where you've parked.
Preparation:Ensure all your gear is loaded, secured, and ready to go by 1015 for the dive briefing. It's wise to assemble your gear the night before and organize your weights and weightbelt to minimize morning tasks. If it's your first time on the RIB, don't worry - everyone will be happy to assist you. As it's likely to be a sunny day, bring a hat, sunblock, and a water bottle. We'll be having lunch onshore, so no need to bring food unless you need a post-dive snack. If you're diving in a wetsuit, bring something warm to wear between dives to avoid getting cold.
Boat Location:The boat, Richmond Explorer, is typically moored on the right-hand/southern arm of the marina. Walk past The Boat That Rocks and head to the gate in front of the ramp. I'll provide the gate code on the day. Follow the ramp down, turn right at the bottom, and you'll find the boat about halfway down with dark blue tubes. If you're new to the RIB, wait for someone experienced to help with gear loading. Remember to keep your dry suit zipped up while on the boat.
Diving Schedule:On Saturday, we'll be diving the Countess (12m) and the Spaniard (14m), both gentle dives suitable for beginners. Meeting time is 0930 in the marina car park.
Sunday Diving:Sunday's dives include the Black Hawk Bow, followed by lunch at Lulworth Cove beach and a drift dive on Lulworth Banks. Please meet at 0800 in the marina car park for an 0830 briefing by the boat.
Gas and Accommodation:Gas is available from the Gas Shack in the marina car park. For accommodation, consider Hotel Aqua as it may still have rooms available for the July weekend.
Additional Information:I'll organize a dinner for everyone staying over on Saturday evening in the Portland/Weymouth area - let me know if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences. Parking is paid, but we have two free spots and two 50% discount spots as berth holders. To streamline the process, please provide your car registration number in advance, and we'll appoint someone to handle the parking payments. I'll create a WhatsApp group and add you all for further communication.
