How long since you dived in general? I think they are more "corporate" now, but what isn't I guess. I am just hoping the storms stay in the gulf and we have decent weather. The diving looks about average, but the fact it's a liveaboard for a week is what is going to be my main challenge. It will really test my social skills and anxiety, no where to escape to. I am afraid to ask but I'm going to what was the best and worst part for you? Understanding that it was a while ago.
early 90's were my last dives. maui.
after that had kids. the wife (ex) had no interest in diving, and we bought a house too far from any dive shop for me to keep instructing. so I sold everything.
the best:
being able to be wet as much as you wanted.
3/4 dives daily.
a few night dives.
snorkeling/free diving when ever we were anchored for the night.
spearfishing was available back then.
the food was good. all you could eat buffet setup.
unlimited rum punch if that's your thing.
the bad are personal memories. doubtful will happen to you.
waking up in a storm crossing back to miami in 15' seas.
someone in my entourage coke od'd while walking back from the bar with me. had a seizure, fell and hit his head on the pavement. more seizures before the coastguard arrived to air e-vac him to miami. after that excitement I got interrogated by the local law enforcement.
side note: it's crowded. pack very light. we always drove down and stayed at my parents condo before getting aboard.
so I could duffle bag pack my clothes. if you're going solo, you'll end up in berths 1-4 and there are upper and lower berths. get on board as soon as possible and grab the one you want. aside from your dive gear, what ever you bring is in your bunk with you.