A guide explaining the underwater sightings to guests.  Photos by Sea Trek Cayman Islands

By Debra Edwards
debra@caymannetnews.com

Some 22 feet below the gin-clear waters off George Town, Blue tangs, Butterfly fish, Sergeant Majors, Fairy Basslet’s— and even an overgrown snapper co-existed with this reporter.

When first approached by my editor to give Sea Trek a try, I thought: “Spock— Star Trek? Sea Trek, what’s that?”

But after quickly researching it on the Internet I learnt that this would be an experience unlike any other. I would basically be walking on the sea floor, getting a first-hand view of marine life, and yet breathing normally with the help of a specially designed helmet. What’s more, I would be able to do all this without even getting my hair wet.

After finding the port location in between the Royal Watler Cruise Ship Terminal and Hammerheads Bar, I excitedly hopped on the boat, and was given a quick briefing by guides, as other Sea Trek-curious individuals and I were taken to the stationary boat further out on the water.

I came to understand that the Sea Trek helmet diving system is constructed of only the highest-quality marine grade components, and provides three times the amount of air necessary for normal breathing.

And that movement underwater throughout the tour is benign and best described as similar to the movements of walking in space. “Well then,” I thought. “I can partially fulfil my dream of going to space…in the water.”

Arriving aboard the stationary boat, and after signing a quick release form, our group was ready to begin our adventure.

I was told beforehand that all Sea Trek adventures are supervised by a professionally trained Sea Trek Guide, and that they follow established company standards and procedures. So I wasn’t really overly concerned…that is, until I was nominated to go first.

With the adrenalin pumping, I got in the water and the specially designed helmet was put on my head and with the help of a guide. I climbed down a ladder into the water.

I must admit my eyes were closed at first. But as soon as I realized that the helmet was indeed working — I found myself breathing normally— I then opened my eyes to see a multitude of fish swirling all around me. And with my feet now touching the sandy floor, I was ready to fully ‘immerse’ myself in the Sea Trek experience…and what an experience it was.

With award-winning guide Phil Cassingham already waiting for the group below water, we quickly began seeing numerous different types of sea creatures. We fed some lucky fish, played catch below the waves and even formed a foot race underwater…which I won by the way.

The hour that we played beneath the water during the tour seemed to pass in less than no time—simply because we were all having too much fun to be fearful.

Climbing back up the ladder to reach the boat, I felt that I could have stayed in the water for much longer, and I know I would do it again.

It was a lot easier than I thought it would be. Yes, the helmet was a tad heavy, but hey I was breathing underwater and enjoying myself that after a while I didn’t really notice it.

It was an amazing experience. And as one of my fellow tour members from Boston, said, “It was like we were in a whole different world down there, I loved it.”

Even those who can’t swim can do this, explained the guides. You can experience the thrill of exploring the open ocean and all its wonders, without giving up precious vacation time for specialized training.

For more information, contact Sea Trek Cayman Islands at mail@seatrekcayman.com or phone (345) 949-0008