12Jul07Midnight Express
Capt. Robert Purifoy
1st Mate: John
2nd Mate: Fred
Relief Crew: Chris, Clint, & Brian
Specs:
48’Gulf Craft Crew boat
18 passengers
Twin Detroit 692s with a max cruise speed of 18 knots
A/C/heat, microwave, fridge, DVD player, sundeck, coolers, hot/cold shower, indoor seating, spacious head, fins-on ladders
Dive Shop Affiliation: Olympus Dive Center
Website: www.olympusdiving.com
Capt. Bobby Purifoy has been in the diving business literally his entire life and it shows. Like the Olympus, the Midnight Express is extraordinarily well kept and well provisioned. In addition to all the normal amenities, the Midnight too has curtains on the stern that offer well-appreciated protection from ocean spray for divers that prefer to remain outside during rougher days.
And while they’re cut from the same mold, there are distinct differences between the Olympus and the Midnight Express. Bobby takes a very personable approach to running his boat. Of all the captains, he is hands down, the most reassuring for newer North Carolina divers. Conscientious, approachable, accommodating, and helpful, he makes his boat truly a pleasure to be aboard, especially for those who may be apprehensive.
Potential negatives? Nothing that can’t be overcome with a bit of patience. As with all crew boats, there are a bunch of people trying to do the same thing at the same time. My advice- relax, stand back, and let the crew take care of it….because they will. (A side note- I’ve never seen as many dolphin as I have onboard the Midnight Express…Bobby says they like his generator.)
