Visitors pet stingrays at the island's newest attraction Stingray City at James Bond Beach, Oracabessa, St. Mary. - FILE
IN RECENT YEARS the Jamaican Association of Dive Operators (JADO), along with other governmental agencies has fought hard to protect the reefs and their occupants. As a result there have now been implemented three designated marine parks in Negril, Montego Bay and Port Antonio. This has meant an increased number of fish and other marine life just waiting for your visit.
DEVELOPMENT OF SCUBA
Scuba diving has had and continues to have a great following here in Kingston too. Since its launch in 1957 the Jamaica Sub-Aqua Club (JSAC), the first overseas branch of the British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC), has played a huge part in the development of scuba diving in Jamaica and has participated in a range of conversation initiatives. In 2004 the Jamaica Scuba Dive Club (JSDC), which is a non-profit organisation, was formed as a sister club of the JSAC to facilitate non-BSAC divers taking part in the club diving activities. Unlike most commercial dive operations, becoming a member allows you to decide exactly where and how you dive.
As the principal dive club in Kingston, the JSDC, based on Altamont Crescent in Kingston, is an amateur association for those who wish to come together and engage in scuba diving as a hobby.
MANY ACTIVITIES
Robert Hew, the diving officer from the JSDC, says that, "There is normally something going on most weekends and throughout the week. Members of the JSDC meet every Thursday night at the clubhouse where they can make arrangements with other members to go diving on the upcoming weekend." Hew also added, "The informal club meetings on a Thursday night are a great opportunity for those who are interested in scuba diving to come along and chat to the various members including several instructors who will be able to offer advice on equipment and courses to those wanting to gain their scuba qualifications."
Over the years the club has also negotiated some discounts with other organisations on equipment and courses. Those wanting to become a member of the JSDC should also head to the clubhouse on Thursday nights. As a member you can expect plenty of social activities for the whole family. Previous events include potluck dinners; themed nights at the clubhouse and barbecues from which last year's proceeds raised money for the Heart Foundation of Jamaica.
RESPECT MARINE LIFE
Lifestyle spoke with Brian Denning, chairman of the JSDC, the day after he had spotted two nurse sharks while diving around the Kingston cays. "As long as you respect the marine - it respects you." Denning also advised that, "The local fishermen are excellent when reporting current conditions under the surface. They can usually advise when jellyfish are in season and can act as great tour guides when looking for the reefs."
Having been diving for 11 years Denning was able to advise me of some his favourite dive sites. "Port Royal has some fantastic wreck dives that provide the perfect habitat for fish due to the protection it provides," he said.
With the JSDC 50th anniversary next year there will be many activities. For those interested in finding out more on what the JSDC has to offer, go to: www.JamaicaScubaDiving Club.com, or attend a meeting held every Thursday night 9:00 p.m. at the clubhouse, 10 Altamont Crescent, New Kingston.
