You love diving, right? Therefore, just about any chance to get in that water is going to be great.
But how about taking your experience to the next level and getting a little bit of added, personal attention?
One way to ensure your time under the surface is enjoyed to the max is by booking yourself a private guide. There are so many reasons why anyone – be they a nervous novice or wise veteran – can glean even more from their dive when accompanied by an expert offering them one-to-one assistance.
As Emperor Divers guide Tracy Atkinson explains: “As a diving professional – and one who often is a private guide for guests – I believe it is a great idea.
“Whether you dive as a solo traveller or dive in a small group – up to four people can share a private guide – it can give you a much-enhanced experience.
“For solo divers you have the reassurance of a reliable buddy who will definitely look after you and stay with you – not get sidetracked with a camera.
“You can dive at your own pace with a guide that shows you highlights on the dive and can point out the more camouflaged critters.
“It also gives you the freedom to make a different dive plan – maybe a boat dive instead of a zodiac drop – or even take a different profile either deeper or shallower then the rest of the group.
“And if you are a photographer it enables you to break free from the dive group – and the ‘bubbles’ – allowing you to spend more time with your subjects be it wide angle or macro.
“Your guide can even act as your model so you can grab some of those awesome shots you always wanted – perhaps on the Thistlegorm with the diver and the motor bike.”
Someone who has experienced firsthand the difference hiring a guide can make is Kerry Patrick.
Having been diving with us for several years, Kerry thought it might be beneficial to get that bit of added help – and she hasn’t looked back since.
She says: “I’ve had the pleasure of diving with Emperor Divers for the past eight years, that’s an incredible 14 liveaboards.
“About four years ago, I decided to take my diving experience to the next level by opting for a private guide. As a solo traveller, I wanted to guarantee the best dive buddy and I quickly realised it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
“Having a private guide means getting dives tailored to your interests and skill level. Whether it’s exploring lesser-known dive sites or focusing on marine photography, the experience is customised just for you.
“The safety and comfort of having a dedicated guide cannot be overstated. My private guide’s expertise has been invaluable, ensuring every dive is not only enjoyable but also safe.
“I’ve also learned so much more than I ever could have on my own. My guide has helped me refine my techniques and gain a deeper understanding of marine life. Emperor let me choose my guide, as long as they are available, and this has given me a whole new set of friends.
“I’ve also had the shouts of “Get in the sea now!” as a huge pod of spinners came by – while the others were still on their dive briefing.
“One of my most memorable experiences was getting a two-week back-to-back on Emperor Elite during Covid.
“On my birthday we had an epic dive where my guide Saad sang Happy Birthday at 30 metres, and then followed this by a very close encounter with a Longimanus at Brothers.
“Diving in a pair certainly encourages the sea life – we don’t tell the wider group what we have seen when get back on the boat as they don’t believe us!!
“If you’re looking to elevate your diving experience, I wholeheartedly recommend opting for a private guide with Emperor Divers.
“It has truly transformed my dives and made each trip even more unforgettable.”
If you would like more information on booking a private guide with Emperor Divers then contact us on [email protected] and our amazing team will be very happy to help