OUR INSTRUCTORS
This is the space to introduce the business and what it has to offer. Define the qualities and values that make it unique.
Michael Graaf,
PADI, M.S.D.T 301239
Owner/Instructor
I began scuba diving nearly 25 years ago. My first dives were at a small cold water lake in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. Until then the only exposure I had to scuba diving was in the movies and on television. It looked awesome, but seemed so far away, and beyond my reality. To actually participate in a sport like scuba diving, let alone to travel abroad didn’t seem possible. That all changed when my friend and I decided to take diving classes together at our local dive shop. We both studied our workbook’s diligently, and couldn’t wait until classes began.
The first time I breathed air underwater in the pool, I was hooked. The feeling of weightlessness, and the freedom provided to explore the depths was magical; even if it was only the deep end of the high school pool. I took a few more classes, and practiced regularly at our regions mainstay training facility at the time, “Dutch Springs." It was a great way to learn how to dive, and I was soon confident enough to sign up for my first trip abroad. I first traveled to beautiful Bonaire located in the Dutch Caribbean.
What I saw in Bonaire absolutely astonished me. Gorgeous, colorful reefs, and beautiful otherworldly vistas that seemed to stretch on forever. The reefs myriad of inhabitants abounded around every bend and crevice of their otherworldly home. The life that surrounded and circled me so perfectly, with a rhythm I had not felt before, inspired me profoundly.
Since that time so long ago I have traveled the world's oceans, and have been fortunate enough to dive some of the finest dive sites on earth. My adventures have taken me through many of the island nations of the Caribbean, and Mexico.
Wreck diving has always interested me, and I have twice spent time diving the sunken WW1 German fleet scuttled in the Orkney islands of Scotland. Other journeys have taken me deep into the Pacific were I explored the reefs and atolls of French Polynesia, and Micronesia.
In recent years I’ve been drawn to the coral triangle of Indonesia and the Philippines. Several times I’ve explored and photograph this ancient and beautiful land.
Other adventures have taken me to the Maldives, and Egypt were I spent time diving the irresistible Red Sea. Every adventure, every breath taken was life changing, and an affirmation that the path I had chosen was the way. Sharing this wonder, and love that I have found drives me forward.
It is my hope to bring the love of this great sport to as many as possible. The beauty of the underwater world belongs to us all, and is accessible to anyone who wants to explore its secrets.
I have had the privilege of working with hundreds of students over the past 15 years. It has brought me immeasurable joy instructing these students, many of which have since joined me on our globe trotting adventures. But the greatest reward by far has been the look of pure joy on their faces when they first behold the wonders that lie beneath the waves.
Meet the Crew!
AmiLynn Graaf
Dive Master
AmiLynn Graaf works diligently behind the scenes focusing her creative ability on producing our wonderful trip brochures, event invitations, and newsletter. She also maintains order in the gear locker, and assists with classes.
AmiLynn's list of diving experience’s include The Maldives, Red Sea, Indonesia, and the Caribbean. Her most memorable experience’s have been diving with the sea lions in the sea of Cortez, and with whale sharks in the Maldives. She also keeps Michael in line.
James Rainone
Team Member
James Rainone's passion for the underwater world began in 2017 when he first became an Open Water Diver. Since then, his love for diving has only deepened, culminating in achieving his Dive Master certification in 2020 with West Chester Scuba Academy. With several years of experience and a deep-seated enthusiasm for marine exploration, James brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to every dive.
Jane Daily
Dive Master
Jane is a Divemaster who has been diving since 2017. Her favorite places to dive are Bonaire & the Sea of Cortez with the lovable sea lions. Jane loves working with students. Through encouragement, and the ability of identifying student needs before the arise. Jane helps students achieve their goals by providing them with the tools they need.
Jason Yaletchko
Dive Master
Jason and his wife have many years of experience snorkeling in the pristine Caribbean waters. After wanting to explore the oceans further he and his wife werecertified as open water divers in 2018. Since then, Jason has completed many PADI courses, achieving his Divemaster Certification. Jason enjoys diving in all bodies of water but prefers the warmer ones. Jason is a novice spear fisher and loves honing his skills in the New Jersey tidal waters. Jason also assists instructors in teaching new divers. Diving is becoming a family affair now that his daughter has become a certified diver. Some of Jason’s favorite dive destinations include Cozumel, Roatan, the Florida Keys and Bonaire.
Steven D. Rudloff
Dive Master
Stephen D Rudloff is a highly skilled and experienced PADI Divemaster, certified in multiple specialized areas of diving. His certifications include:
- PADI Divemaster
- PADI Rescue Diver
- Drysuit Diver
- Nitrox Certified
- Open Water Advanced Diver
- Open Water Diver
Stephen currently assists instructors in conducting recreational training programs, helping divers achieve their certifications through safe and enjoyable experiences. His leadership abilities have been honed through extensive experience in leading dives and conducting open water courses.
In addition to his diving expertise, Stephen is proficient in handling a wide range of dive equipment, navigation, safety protocols, and emergency procedures. His deep understanding of risk assessment ensures every dive is conducted with the highest safety standards.
Stephen’s commitment to customer service and clear communication helps create a positive and rewarding diving experience for every participant. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced diver, Stephen is dedicated to providing a professional and supportive environment for all.