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PADI Instructor News

16 November 2009

Recommendations for a Liveaboard N00b?

My First Liveaboard





At the end of the year I'm going to Palau. I can't wait! This will be my first liveaboard trip and I'm looking for recommendations.

How many swimsuits do I need? 
I only own two. Should I buy more?  I've heard I would be happier with four or five.


I have a 3mm wetsuit but plan to invest in a 5mil. 
Make fun of me all you want because hey, when you log long dives like I do - it gets cold. Two wetsuits should be enough though, yeah? Maybe an extra set of booties too?



Other special items?
  • A reef hook with 6 feet of line
  • Cash (any recommendations on tips?)
  • and plenty of books for the way-long flight overseas.
Anyone else out there really sea-sickness prone?
I get seasick at IMAX movies, so, I'm bringing Bonine no matter what.  Should I let it wear off after the first few days? I hate having Bonine brain.

I'm really stoked to use the underwater housing for my iPod.
Just hoping the current won't be so intense that it whips the earphones off. Bjork wouldn't like that.

Lastly - any specific recommendations for Palau?
I have 24 hours on the island. I'm doing the kayak tour with Sam's but have the evening free.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Since swimsuits weigh hardly anything, take as many as you have money to match every color you are wearing.

The 5mm wetsuit will be beneficial for Hawaii, but unnessary for Palau.

Tip about 10% of the cost of the boat, or $200-$300 whichever is higher.

I use scopalamine patches and am usually fine after the first 3 days.

Use the Ipod on the plane and take pictures U/W. The cords seem to get in the way at the worst possible time.

Go to the jail and purchase a storyboard.

Nick Bostic said...

I'm not sure about the two wetsuit idea. I worked on a liveaboard for most of a summer in college and I used one wet suit the whole time. They always seem to take up too much space (& weigh a lot until 100% dry).

Maybe I missed it, but are you taking a camera?

PADI Americas (west coast team) said...

Thanks for the great suggestions...

I've heard good things about the storyboards. I won't have a car. Is it easy / short cab ride to get to the jail from town?

Nick - you're right. I didn't mention a camera. I don't have much experience taking photos underwater and I'm a little torn about bringing one.

I want to take it all in, you know? I don't want to be behind a lens the whole time, but, then if I don't bring one that's when the orcas will decide to come over from Yap, right?