What is scuba diving for Andrea?

Good morning Friendly Fins, we have decided to start a new column that talks about... US! People who dedicate themselves to the sea every day, who have chosen to dive and who want to tell their stories!

Today we interview our colleague and friend Andrea who will tell us what diving means to him:

"Hi everyone, I'm Andrea, I'm from Sirmione, Lake Garda and I work as an instructor in Sharm el Sheikh."

When did you start scuba diving?

In 2015 in Australia in the Whitsundays, I did the PADI Discovery Scuba Diving (baptism of the sea) in the most beautiful beach in Australia. In 2016 I decided to take my first PADI Open Water Diver certification in Chairns on the Great Barrier Reef of Australia.

What inspired you to start scuba diving?

Andrea

Mainly two things: I have always been fascinated by the beauty of the marine world and the stories of my grandfather who took his license in the 50s at Lake Garda. After the Second World War he went to the lake to search for historical artifacts such as bullets, keys, bayonets.

Why did you become an instructor?

Because scuba diving slowly became my passion and I wanted it to become my job too. I am still satisfied with my choice especially to be able to help people overcome their fears and difficulties and fully enjoy this wonderful world.

Come ti senti quando sei sott’acqua?

In peace, you don't talk to anyone, it's a way to clear your mind, being in the water makes me feel much better. For me, both marine and terrestrial Nature has a therapeutic effect.

What was the best dive?

The manta point in Nusa Penida, the first time I guided the morning dive where I saw 17/18 mantas all together and it gave me very strong emotions.

What do you aspire to in the future?

I would like to open my own dive center and advance in my diving career, becoming a Course Director one day.

What dive are you still dreaming about?

My secret dream is to dive with orcas, I find them very fascinating animals as they are very similar to us in character and way of life.

What don't you like about scuba diving?

The fact that in recent years it has become too commercial and more of a business, the priority of training good and responsible divers to increase earnings has been somewhat lost.

What advice would you give to beginners and new divers?

Don't stop and always keep going, always looking for new stimuli, because if you go with this mentality, scuba diving will never tire you!

Andrea, Scuba Instructor