Rico's Story

Welcome to my diving journey!

I began this adventure at the age of 12, inspired by my Dad, a seasoned instructor. Our Dive Centre at Porthkerris, has been a hub for divers for over 30 years, and I grew up immersed in the diving community, from working on boats to helping in the compressor room.

After earning my Dive Master certification in 2023 and becoming a Dive Instructor over April 2025, in Honduras, I now share my passion with others, especially in the pristine waters of Cornwall where we are dedicated to preserving the marine environment. We are right on the border of the Manacles Marine Conservation Zone, so we are not so affected by issues such as trawling and dredging of the seabed. Because we own the land around the dive site, it is easier for us to control fishing in the area and to make it a safer and better spot for divers.

​I find exploring the intriguing world of shipwrecks in Cornish waters particularly interesting, with the SS Mohegan being the most well-known. This impressive wreck rests at depths ranging from 19m to 30m, offering divers a thrilling experience. I discovered the ship's rudder on Vase Rock, a remnant of its tragic grounding. Additionally, the Mohegan is intertwined with the history of Porthkerris as one the life rafts that was deployed from Mohegan can be found at the old quarry workshop. This is a testament to the bravery of those who assisted on that fateful night when locals and quarry workers came together to rescue passengers, relying on local knowledge of tides, the sea and rock formations. A daring and brave rescue that resulted in the the lifeboat being pulled ashore at Porthkerris Cove. One of my favourite dives, however, is on the Helford River. The freshwater mixing with the sea environment offers a stark contrast to the sea, devoid of kelp and presenting a unique beauty, reminiscent of a desert landscape. What you encounter here is unlike any other diving, making it truly special.

Diving has a way of connecting people in the most unexpected ways. Recently, while on our boat on the Helford River, I struck up a conversation with some folks on the pontoon. They had no ties to diving but were intrigued to learn more. Fast forward a couple of weeks, and I was teaching an Open Water Diving course, and was utterly surprised to see that the same group were attendees. They were just as surprised, as they had no idea that I was an instructor! Moments like these remind me of my passion, sharing the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world with others.

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