What is the beach diving like in Gulf Shores?
Gulf Shores has one of the best shore dives on the coast. The "Whiskey Wreck" offers an abundance of marine life close to shore, and with good conditions can be a facinating authentic shipwreck site. Average VIS: 10-15 Dpth: 10-25
The rock jetties at Alabama Point in Orange Beach is an excellent drift dive using the tides to gently take your dive along the rocky terrain below. Average VIS: 10-25 Dpth: 10-25
The little known "Paddle Wheeler" is another super shore dive just a little West of Lagoon Pass in Gulf Shores. Teaming with fish, this site can be a great shallow site with extended bottom times. Average VIS: 5-15 Dpth: 8-20
Maps and info available at Down Under Dive Shop
Does the Dive Master give a briefing on the dive site?
Yes, on our dive charters, the dive master loves to share his knowledge about the reefs and wrecks with you, and tell you important things about diving from the boat.
How many different boat dive sites do you have?
We visit up to 30 different dive sites by boat. Specific site availability depends on the season and prevailing weather conditions.
How do I prevent seasickness?
Several over-the-counter medications are on the market for motion sickness. We recommend Triptone, or Bonine. An ounce of prevention is definitely worth a pound of cure. Also, the morning of the charter, avoid greasy or acidic foods and juices, and be sure to be well rested and hydrated.
Are there special considerations for cameras?
We provide separate rince bins for underwater cameras, and we have two camera set-up tables aboard our dive boat. Also, we offer a PADI Digital Underwater Photographer specialty course upon request which specializes in edting and enhancing underwater photos.
Can non-divers go on the dive boat?
Of course! There is plenty of room for riders. They will enjoy being on the water and be able to watch the dive operation in action. Who knows, after seeing how much fun the divers are having, they may just decide to become a diver too. Riders only pay half price.
Are there sharks out there?
There are sharks in all areas with salt water. However, it is a rare occasion in deed to see one on one of our trips. We wish we could see these amazing creatures more often, but the truth is, we just don't get the chance. If you are lucky you may see one pass by the dive site, or sweep in to see what these bubblemakers are. Generally speaking, common Gulf sharks don't act aggressive unless you are tethered to a fish that he thinks he can make an easy meal of. So, since we don't spearfish on our recreational charters, you probably won't get the opportunity to see one. Sorry.
Should I bring food on a dive charter?
Absolutely! The crew loves pizza, home cooking, or just about anything! You know how being on the water having fun make you hungry. All joking aside, we provide fruit and drinks on all charters, and sandwiches on Oriskany trips. There is plenty of room for a small cooler, and it is always a good idea to bring a sack lunch on boat trips.
Do you offer discounts for large groups?
Down Under does have a group pricing program for clubs and dive shops. We offer discounts as well as a leader spot to dive with your group. Call us for a group pricing detail sheet. We will take special care of your group, and we will assist you with any logistic challenges you may have. Let us show your dive group a great trip!
2010 Charter Prices
Oriskany Charters and 3 Tank Trips $152.88 pp ($165 -15% Commission +9% Charter Tax)
Off Shore 2 Tank Trips (6hr) $88.02 pp ($95 -15% Commission +9% Charter Tax)
In Shore 2 Tank (4hr) $69.49 pp ($75 -15% Commission +9% Charter Tax)
Checkout 2 Tank 3mile Barge $50.96 pp ($55 -15% Commission +9% Charter Tax)
1 free trip leader spot with 10 or more paying.
Private Whole Boat Charters
USS Oriskany 20 spots $3000
Two Tank (6hr) 20 Spots $1700
Two Tank (4hr) 20 Spots $1350
3 Mile Barge Two Tank 20 Spots $950
Airfills and Rentals
25% off of group Airfills and Rentals
Oriskany Safe Diver Policy
All Divers Diving the Oriskany must be Advanced Openwater certified, supply dive computers, and have 20 logged dives.
USS Oriskany 2 "no deco/130' Max Depth" Dives on this site: Per Diver
USS Oriskany Tec Divers, single dive with a 3 hr. runtime on this site:
Boat ride around two hours depending on conditions.
20 Recreational Divers Max./16 Light Tec
We supply water, punch, fresh fruit and snacks and hot dogs, we like to feed you!
Boat departs at 8 am on Oriskany Trips
A 50% deposit is required to confirm diving reservations. Balance is due upon arrival. Groups are responsible for all spaces booked unless reservations have been changed in due time to enable us to fill the resulting vacancies. Payments are acceptable in cash, traveler's checks, money order or a major credit card. To ensure proper discretion, group rates on charters, air fills, and rentals are not honored over the counter to individuals within the group. The group leader must pay the bill at one time. Cancellations received and acknowledged at least two weeks prior to arrival qualify for full refund of deposit.