Mark Ronson’s Scuba Story
Mark Ronson’s personal account, first published in August 2021.
Hi guys, my name is Mark, and I started to scuba dive at 29. To be honest, I never really knew anything about it until I went on holiday to Egypt. We went on a snorkelling day trip and saw so much life. We also saw people trying scuba diving on the boat. I decided I wanted to give it a go and was really surprised at how easy it was. The first time I went, there was a PADI Instructor who did everything for us and made it really enjoyable. I was quite hooked from there. When I got back to the UK, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. After doing some research on the internet, I found a local dive shop and enquired about the PADI Open Water Course.
After speaking to my local dive school, I decided to do just the theory in the UK. I then wanted to go back to Egypt to do the practical side of the course, which is possible. The reason I didn’t want to do the whole course in the UK was that it was nearly winter, and I did not fancy the cold water. Many people dive in the UK in winter, using drysuits to help keep them dry, but I decided this was not for me.
The following year, we booked to go to Egypt, and it was great. It took three days to do the practical side of the PADI Open Water Course, and I loved every minute. There really is so much to see in Egypt: marine life, reefs, shipwrecks and huge drop-offs where you can only see blue.
Why do I scuba dive? I just love the feeling of being underwater. To float along and see all the wildlife is great. I remember the first time I saw a dolphin underwater. It was one of the best feelings I have ever had; they came so close. If you want to see a different world, do it. You will never regret it. I now go diving in Hurghada at least once a year. I have not done any further courses yet and have 42 dives. I want to do my PADI Advanced Course because I want to start diving a little deeper, and I will do this with Dive UK Hurghada when we are allowed to travel again.
I really want to start exploring some of the shipwrecks Egypt has to offer, such as the Salem Express and Thistlegorm. I have dived a couple of shallow wrecks, but now want something a bit bigger. I would also like to do a liveaboard trip and dive in Marsa Alam, visit Elphinstone Reef and have the opportunity to see sharks in the wild. I can’t wait to dive with Steve again, but I know I have to get a little more experience first and do my PADI Advanced Course.
A reply from Dive UK Hurghada
Thanks for the story, Mark. I remember the first time we met in February 2020. Unfortunately, Covid has stopped us meeting again, but I look forward to seeing you and Michelle soon.
Scuba diving really is relaxing, and your eyes will not believe what they see. Each time you dive, you will see something new. With the world’s oceans covering over 70% of its surface, your opportunities to explore are endless. The first step to becoming a qualified diver is to take an Open Water course. You then have further learning opportunities, such as the PADI Advanced Course, to develop your skills and explore Adventure Dives. If you would like to discuss diving or ask for advice, please get in contact with us.
