Most of my diving has been in the Caribbean. October 20-27, my wife and I traveled on the Solmar V through the southern portion of the Sea of Cortez. Though the viz was not great most of the week, our experience aboard the Solmar V was a rich and highly enjoyable experience. We were able observe the multitude species which live in the Sea of Cortez. At Los Islotes, we had the opportunity to dive for many hours with playful California Sea Lion pups. We also came face to face with a 'ferocious' Sea Lion Beachmaster, who seemed to enjoy being petted by me. The pups really seemed to like our fins.

At San Francisquito, thanks to divemasters Ray and Nelson, we got to see a jawfish come out to pose for divers. While I was taking pictures of the jawfish, a sea lion pup descended to play with Laurie. Everywhere we dove, we were surrounded by a multitude of Panoramic Moray Eels and more puffers than we've ever seen. There were balloonfish everywhere we looked, an occasional porcupinefish and Guineafowl Puffers on most dives. We also saw jewel morays and starry morays.

There were 13 divers aboard, four couples and five singles, from California, Texas, England, Italy, Maryland and Pennsylvania. The meals were wonderful, and between meals, snacks were always around. Pedro, the chef, was always ready to provide alternate selections. Geronimo was the driver of our Panga. He was there to pick us up whenever we ascended, no matter the current or weather conditions. He also entertained us with his humor and his wonderful videos. I have never been on such a lavishly appointed dive vessel.

The week we traveled Marty Snyderman was aboard, and most people were taking photos on every dive. On the second day of the trip a laptop appeared in the dining room. The next day I brought mine up. By the end of the trip, five laptops appeared on the main deck, where all the digital photographers were working on their photos. In the evening, sometimes we were given illustrated talks on photography and marine life by Marty and sometimes we were give photoshop lessons by Elliot from England.

When we returned to Cabo San Lucas, we were able to walk through the town's shopping area. It's worth the trip. We spent much of the afternoon at the Solmar, while waiting for our flight home. A free Marguerita was part of the airport taxi service. We recommend the Sea of Cortez for the interaction with the Sea Lion pups alone.

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		Bob Klemow