Totally botched my navigation on that Cozumel wall dive, but just led my first successful group through the same spot.

I got turned around and lost last month, but today I kept everyone together and on track.

4 comments

4 Comments

Getting turned around underwater isn't just a learning moment, it's a real risk. I heard about a diver who panicked after losing their way and shot up too fast, getting bent. That kind of mistake can hurt people, not make you better. Practice in controlled settings or with a backup plan seems safer. Relying on screw-ups to teach you feels like playing with fire when lives are on the line. Guides should know the route well before taking others, not learn by getting lost.

wadesullivan1h ago

Yeah, those screw-ups are what actually stick with you. You learn the layout way better after getting turned around once. Makes you a much stronger guide the next time through.

the_amy1h ago

My friend Carlos guided a bike tour in Austin last spring. He missed a turn and ended up on a busy road with the whole group. After that mess, he memorized every side street and shortcut. @wadesullivan, that's so true about screw-ups making you a better guide!

the_derek38m ago

Have you ever had a close call that made you change how you do things? I used to think getting lost was just part of learning, no real harm done. But guiding a night dive last year showed me how quick a small mistake can turn scary, like when I nearly missed our ascent line. Now I always run through new routes alone first, so your Cozumel story really hits home.