Diving Legend Gary Finney: 10,000 Dives with Aqua Ventura Divers
A Historic Dive in Dauin, Negros Oriental
In August 2025, the diving community in Dauin, Negros Oriental, celebrated a historic milestone. Gary Lee Finney, founder and master instructor of AquaVentura, completed his 10,000th dive at the age of 75. This extraordinary achievement cements his legacy as one of scuba diving’s greatest pioneers in the Philippines.
Reaching 10,000 dives is a feat few divers can imagine. Most enthusiasts log 100–200 dives in a lifetime, but for Finney, this milestone is a testament to a career defined by passion, resilience, and a deep connection with the ocean.
From Marine Veteran to Diving Pioneer
Born in the United States in 1950, Gary Finney’s journey to the Philippines began during his service with the U.S. Marines in 1971. Enchanted by the country’s vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, he decided to stay after his tour. While he first trained as a diver in Houston, it was the Philippines’ underwater wonders that shaped his life’s work.
In 2010, Finney founded Aqua Ventura Divers, initially named Aqua Ventura Diving & Boat Services. Today, it stands as a premier dive center in the Visayas, offering PADI and RAID certifications, eco-tours, snorkeling, and freediving. Divers flock to explore iconic sites like Apo Island, Moalboal’s sardine run, and Oslob’s whale shark encounters. Aqua Ventura Divers also offers dive and stay packages 4 Days/3 Nights Ultimate Dive & Stay Package .
The 10,000th Dive: A Celebration Beneath the Waves
Finney’s landmark dive took place at a renowned muck diving site in Dauin, known for its rare marine species like frogfish, nudibranchs, and ghost pipefish. Joined by his son, Joeren King Finney, loyal clients, and the AquaVentura team, Finney dove to 20 meters for 45 minutes. The highlight? Spotting a vibrant flamboyant cuttlefish—a fitting tribute from the ocean.
“The ocean has been my therapist, my teacher, and my home. This dive felt like coming full circle.”
— Gary Finney
Why 10,000 Dives Is Extraordinary
Ten thousand dives equate to over 8,000 hours underwater—a staggering commitment. Most professional instructors log a few thousand dives in their careers, making Finney’s achievement a rare testament to mastery and endurance. As a PADI Master Instructor with certifications in nitrox, deep, and wreck diving, he has guided thousands of divers, fostering a love for the underwater world through AquaVentura.
AquaVentura’s Commitment to Sustainability
AquaVentura stands out for its eco-conscious approach. The dive center champions plastic-free initiatives and offers marine conservation tours to protect the reefs of Negros Oriental. Finney’s dedication to sustainability resonates with divers who value environmental stewardship.
One TripAdvisor reviewer raved:
“Diving with Gary is like exploring with a legend—he knows every nook and makes you feel safe and exhilarated.”
The Celebration on Shore
After the dive, festivities erupted at AquaVentura’s dive center. Guests enjoyed fresh seafood, local music, and stories from Finney’s decades of adventures. The event united long-time clients who see AquaVentura as a second home, reflecting the tight-knit community Finney has built in Dauin.
Looking Ahead: The Journey Continues
At 75, Finney has no plans to retire. “10,000 is just a number,” he said with a smile. “I’ve got at least another 5,000 in me.” Aqua Ventura’s future includes expanded eco-tourism programs and mentorship for young divers, ensuring Finney’s legacy endures.
A Legacy of Depth and Discovery
Gary Finney’s 10,000th dive is more than a personal milestone—it’s a celebration of a life devoted to the ocean. For divers seeking unforgettable experiences in the Philippines, AquaVentura in Dauin, Negros Oriental, offers world-class diving guided by a true legend.
Plan Your Dive with Aqua Ventura Today
