After checking around with the Virginia Beach dive charters that I know, I've come to the realization that they aren't going to be a very good venue for a DH event alone. There used to be a few big boats, but the remaining charters are six packs, so our numbers would be relatively limited and frankly Atlantic weather being what it is, would make any given day in the summer a 50/50 gamble.
As for Virginia lake options, Lake Phoenix said that they would be happy to host us and offered us a nice pavilion on Vendor Fest 07OCT17. It's not Cozumel, but the place is clean, has a nice campground and has some nearby hotels. I've been there in October and November and the water is still very comfortable in a 5mm wetsuit. The best feature of Lake Phoenix is that it's only a few minutes from I85 in Virginia (google it for details). If there was interest on Friday or Sunday, I could help organize a wreck dive charter out of VB for six divers who are interested in some nice offshore WWII wrecks while they are in the area.
Here's the advertising they sent me about Vendor Fest.
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This year Lake Phoenix is again hosting VenderFest. This demo and presentation day is a fun packed time for you to join with divers,
departing knowledge and possibly giving non divers, or existing divers some new considerations as to the possibilities of continued education when it
comes to the underwater world.
We have selected Saturday October 7th this year as the day for VenderFest!
As in previous years once signed up:
You may submit a pavilion request at any time prior to the event. Priority users still have first selection. Based on availability pavilion
fees are waived for presenters. We may select to combine multiple presenters in a pavilion as needed and will alert you as this decision is
made.
You may represent one or more manufactures or organizations. Please let us know in advance.
You may present training and trip opportunities as well as equipment provided these are from your organization.
Additional waivers and fees for any in water demonstrations will be provided / received by you. We will not be responsible for collection
of any additional fees or waivers.
Please provide a Group Manifest prior to the event of those working the event. Individuals thereon must complete the Lake Phoenix
waiver for 2017 and check in on arrival. Their fees for entrance are waived for the day.
POC for these actions will be Dalelynn Sims who can be reached direct at 434 955-0304
Your Lake Phoenix Family
1 Quarry lane, Rawlings, VA. 23876
SCUBA Park & Family Camp Ground
www.Lake-Phoenix.com Phone: (804) 716-2199