About

Contact Captain Jim with Beach Bum Divers

Meet Your Captain Jim Harwood

Seasoned diver, mariner, and ocean explorer with decades of real-world experience above and below the surface.

His journey began in 1986 when he earned his Junior Open Water PADI certification at the Miami Valley School, sparking a lifelong passion for the sea.

Over the years, Jim advanced his scuba leadership, becoming a NAUI Dive Master (2003) and later earning his Instructor certification (2009). His credentials extend beyond diving — as a U.S. Merchant Mariner OUPV captain (2009), he’s navigated countless waters with skill and authority.

Capt. Jim’s career highlights include:

  • Founding Beach Bum Divers in Longboat Key, Florida (2009) and serving as Dive Master and Sherpa with Blue Water Explorers (2010–2017).
  • Leading as General Manager of Scuba Quest Bradenton (2017–2018).
  • Certifying over 400 students, with many still diving today under his guidance.
  • Diving alongside legends like Pierre Cousteau and Cristina Zenato.
  • Earning recognition for commercial dive work including projects featured with Bay News 9.
Capt. Jim Harwood

By the Numbers

Year 1st Certified
0
Years of Experience
0
Certified Students
0 +

Once you’ve experienced the magic of the ocean, it becomes a part of you forever.

Diving is a great activity for kids.

We Love Nature

Captain Jim is especially proud to have certified both of his sons as scuba divers, passing down not just his skills but also his love for exploring and protecting the ocean. For him, scuba has always been more than a sport—it’s a way to bond, explore, and create unforgettable memories together.

SCUBA certification is a great way to share the ocean with your kids.

It Is a Gift

A lifetime of experience with the ocean has inspired a deep respect for nature’s beauty and power. For Captain Jim, the ocean isn’t just where he works—it’s where he feels most alive. From the quiet beauty of a reef to the thrill of a deep dive, the sea has always been his sanctuary.

Beach Bum Divers | Scuba Certification & Dive Captain

Jim still works for Scuba Quest when he can and is working toward his Instructor Trainer certification.

Local Dive Charters available in partnership with Reel Diversion Charters.

Learn more about SCUBA Certification with Captain Jim Harwood

Here is a short video clip of a SCUBA class at GT Bray Aquatic Center. The pool is 17′ deep, which is a perfect training environment.

Contact Jim