On April 21, 2025, Shawn and I completed our SSI Deep Diving Specialty, giving us the training and certification to explore depths down to 130 feet (40 meters). It was our first taste of truly deep water diving — and a critical step toward more advanced adventures.
Our training dives took place at North Park, Canyon Lake, where visibility was limited, thermoclines were sharp, and buoyancy control became absolutely essential. Dive #8 brought us to 75 feet — the deepest we’ve gone so far.
Instructor Christina Burenga emphasized dive planning, narcosis awareness, and gas management. We reviewed emergency procedures for exceeding no-decompression limits and used Nitrox for added safety.
What stood out most was the shift in mindset. Deep diving isn’t just about depth — it’s about discipline. Every kick and every decision underwater starts to matter more.
This specialty unlocked a huge part of our future diving plans — especially for upcoming wrecks and Cozumel’s deeper reefs. With Deep Diver and EANx behind us, we’re now equipped for the next frontier.
