East Cape Explorers

So, Luis at East Cape Explorers is my new BFF, and I am eternally grateful to him.
(Backstory for context: In 1999, my husband and I were certified as open water divers by a super sketchy dive master in Croatia. Every diver we’ve told our story to has been horrified to hear that before we were even certified, that dude took us in a cave, where I hit my tank on the wall, opening the valve and letting air out. I thought I was going to die, and have pretty much had PTSD about it ever since).
A few weeks ago, we did a little refresher class in preparation for diving with East Cape Explorers in Baja. When we got to the dive shop, Luis could see that I was already starting to hyperventilate while I tried on equipment. He was extra careful and gentle with me. He stayed with me from the moment we got into the water. My husband and son felt extremely confident diving together, so Luis focused his attention on me. I started to panic when my face hit the water, and Luis calmed me down and got me breathing properly. He held my hand literally for every second of our first, 45 minute dive, even helping me adjust my buoyancy. With the second dive, I was a tiny bit more confident, so he gave me a little bit more latitude, but held on to me all the same. This way, I got to see way more wildlife, because he sure knows what he is looking for!
A few days later, we did two more dives. By the fourth dive, I had figured out my buoyancy and was able to freely dive on my own (with Luis firmly in my sights) despite a significant surge. They took us to Ship Wreck where we explored an enormous old Japanese fishing trawler covered in beautiful coral and crowded with tropical fish. After nearly 20 years of being truly terrified of scuba diving, this dive was absolutely magical, and restored my confidence and excitement in this sport. Even more than just a fun vacation adventure, thanks to Luis’s kind consideration, the trip was actually cathartic.
East Cape Explorers felt safe, professional, clean, and well organized. The owner, Lars, was thorough and responsive. They were careful to make sure that the dives were appropriate for all the members of our party. The boat captain was kind and friendly, and served us sliced oranges and biscuits and ice water for our blood sugar between dives.
We would recommend East Cape Explorers, especially Luis, to any diver.