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Go Back   PassPorter - A Community of Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and General Travel Forums > PassPorter's Florida Destinations Beyond Walt Disney World > Central Florida Attractions: SeaWorld, Discovery Cove, Busch Gardens
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Old 07-09-2009, 08:44 PM   #1
matryma
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Swimming with the sharks

My son (10) and I are going into the shark cage at the shark encounter in Sea World. I'm not scared of the sharks, or the water, or the cage, and maybe a little the wet suit...what's really bothering me is the SCUBA helmet. I'm alittle clastrophobic and I'm worried about freaking out when the helmet goes on. Has anyone ever done this? How big is the helmet? I just don't want to freak at last minute and blow by dh's money. Thanks!
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Old 07-10-2009, 10:08 PM   #2
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I have no advice for you. I cannot snorkel at all! Something about having my face in the water and breathing! ICK! I even took snorkeling lessons at Discovery Cove and still can't do it. I would recommend trying out snorkeling or maybe scuba lessons to see. I know I could not do it.
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Old 07-12-2009, 02:08 PM   #3
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Take deep, relaxing breaths when they put on the helmet on.

Yes, this advice is coming from a person who can't snorkel either because I can't exhale through my nose.
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Old 07-16-2009, 12:06 PM   #4
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I found this review on another board and thought it might be helpful. Sharks Deep Dive Report - The DIS Discussion Forums - DISboards.com
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Old 07-17-2009, 12:09 AM   #5
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I did the shark dive at sea world last year. The helmet is pretty big. You can turn you head side to side with no problems. The helmet is open at the bottom (it rests on you you shoulders.) If you lean to far forward water will come in the helmet. Each helmet does have a microphone and speaker in it. You will be in the cage with one other person. you and the other person will be able to talk to each other and to an instructor up above. This will help will the clastrophobia since you can communicate with others. Also, there is a constant flow of air into the helmet (it is what keeps the water out of the helmet.) Focus on the the constant hiss of air, it will help your mind relax. Also, look thru the face glass, not at it. If you focus thru it you see the waterworld around you not the glass right in front of you (you focus on the far stuff, nothing close.)

The two things to keep in mind. First, the helmet is appox. 50 lbs (out of water) but they will help you with it. Second, you do have to step down into the cage with the helmet on.

Hope this helps-Halleysdad
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