Gaspars Dive N Board

Located in Englewood, Florida, Gaspars Dive N Board has established itself as a cornerstone of the local diving community over nearly two decades. As a NAUI Platinum Pro and SSI training centre, they provide a structured and professional environment for both recreational enthusiasts and those pursuing professional diving careers.

The centre operates out of Cape Haze Marina, providing direct access to the diverse underwater landscapes of the Gulf Coast. From shallow reef flats to significant wreck sites, the area offers a varied curriculum for divers looking to expand their skills in a subtropical environment.

The centre is built on nearly 18 years of local expertise, functioning as a high-level training hub for the region. They maintain a strong focus on professional standards, holding both NAUI Platinum and SSI affiliations which underpin their extensive course catalogue.

Beyond instruction, the facility serves as a technical resource for the community, featuring an authorised service workshop for equipment maintenance. This ensures that local divers have access to professional-grade servicing for their personal kit right on shore.

The training programme is exhaustive, covering every stage of the diver's progression. They offer everything from initial Open Water Diver and SSI eLearning courses through to advanced levels such as Advanced Open Water Diver, Deep Diver, and Rescue Diver.

For those looking to move into the professional ranks, the centre provides Divemaster and Instructor training. Specialized skills are also taught, including Perfect Buoyancy, Navigation, Drysuit Diver, and Computer Diving, ensuring a well-rounded technical foundation.

The fleet consists of two specialised vessels designed to handle the requirements of Florida diving. The 'Tooth Ferry', a 32' Newton Dive Special, and the 'Below Me', a 38' Strike Yacht, both feature twin Cummins engines for reliable transit to the dive sites.

These boats are configured for diver comfort and safety, featuring easy-access entry platforms and commercial-grade dive ladders. On board, you will find freshwater showers, private marine toilets, and warm boat coats for when you surface. The vessels also provide snacks and drinks to keep you fuelled between dives.

The shore-based facilities are well-equipped for both training and recreational diving. A full range of rental kit is available, including exposure suits, regulators, fins, and masks, alongside air and Nitrox cylinder options.

For those requiring technical support, the on-site service workshop is authorised to maintain diving equipment. The centre also provides essential amenities such as anti-fog, sunscreen, and shampoo for use after your sessions.

The local waters are home to a variety of large pelagics and coastal residents. You will frequently encounter manatees and dolphins moving through the area, along with sea turtles and various species of colorful tropical fish.

Near the reefs and jetties, such as at Caspersen Beach, the presence of sharks is a notable feature. The ecosystem is healthy and supports a wide range of marine life throughout the seasonal cycles.

For those interested in macro life and smaller residents, the seagrass and reef structures host snook and sheepshead. The biodiversity of the area ensures that there is always something to observe, from large mammals to the smaller fish inhabiting the reef flats.

The primary diving season in this region runs from April to October. During these months, the environment is most conducive to regular diving excursions.

While specific current and swell data varies by site, the area is known for its diverse habitats ranging from protected reef flats to more open wreck sites. Planning your dive around the seasonal windows ensures the best experience with the local marine life.