Family Stories

The Best Kids Sea Camp? Impossible!

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Coral reefs, Borneo

All our destinations are great for families

 
By Margo Peyton
For 27 years, clients have asked me, “Margo, what is your favorite dive destination?” As a mother and now a grandmother, a PADI scuba instructor, and a lifelong ocean lover (I was born in Provincetown, Massachusetts, on Cape Cod!), I’ve always answered, “All of them!” Each destination I’ve personally chosen for Kids Sea Camp holds a special place in my heart.
 

Cayman Islands: Perfect for First-Time Family Dive Trips

As a young mother, I fell in love with the Cayman Islands as my son, Robbie, was born in Grand Cayman! I know the islands well, having worked both as a divemaster and a travel agent for many years while living there. With easy access from the US (multiple daily, direct, non-stop flights!), a strong safety record, and family-friendly resorts like Compass Point Diver with Ocean Frontiers, Little Cayman Beach Resort, and Cayman Brac Beach Resort, it was at the top of my list for young divers.
 
These resorts are family-owned and run, with a super kid-friendly setup. The diving is easy for all levels, with picture-perfect turquoise waters and sugar-white sand beaches you dream about on a cold winter’s day. Those picturesque beaches are perfect for building sandcastles, playing volleyball, and relaxing!
Underwater, you’ll find turtles, tarpon, dolphins, and sharks, along with dramatic walls, fascinating wrecks like Captain Keith Tibbetts, and shallow reefs perfect for new divers. The resorts offer spacious guest rooms that give parents privacy while keeping kids close. And don’t forget the exciting land adventures like exploring pirate caves or hiking the bluffs!
 
Both resorts offer excellent food and service, with plenty of family-friendly choices. The chefs create amazing made-from-scratch cakes, pies, and cookies, and there’s even a make-your-own sundae bar! The restaurants serve everything from steaks and lobster to fresh fish and vegetarian delights.
 
Getting around is easy, whether you rent a car or explore by bike. Each property has a spa, and believe it or not, tennis and basketball courts! Relax by the large oceanfront pools, swing in a hammock on the beach, or join in the fun with treasure hunts, pizza and movie nights, and pool games. I enjoy photographing and feeding the giant iguanas, collecting coconuts, and enjoying those lazy afternoons on the beach. Quaint shops and other restaurants are worth exploring, along with the island’s exceptional flora and birdlife. The Cayman Islands are known for their history, culture, and diving.
 

Bonaire: Easy Diving

Bonaire stole my heart with its laid-back charm, friendly donkeys roaming freely, flocks of pink flamingos, and incredible marine life, from wild dolphins and manta rays (yes, manta rays in Bonaire!) to massive tarpon and countless octopuses.
 
My favorite part of the day? Jumping off the dock with my kids when they were young divers to explore the calm, shallow reefs. The white sandy bottom, just 15-20 feet below, felt like a natural guardrail, letting kids build confidence and independence in a safe environment. Bonaire is one of my top picks for large families, with 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom villas at reasonable prices and easy access from the States.
 
Blowkarting is a blast
 
Buddy Dive Resort is family-owned and very kid-friendly, with an in-ocean training area that cuts down on pool time. Beyond diving, my favorite activity is Blow Karting (land sailing), a total blast for adults and kids! They also offer sunset cruises, walk-the-plank, karaoke, and live music. Buddy Dive sits right on the oceanfront and offers some of the easiest family diving, with guided shore dives and boat dives just minutes away. And that jump-off-the-dock diving is the best! When my kids were older, they both completed their instructor training with Buddy Dive, which was an amazing gift to witness and be part of. Buddy Dive offers internship programs, Reef Renewal, and technical diver training for older kids and divers looking to advance their training for future careers or fun. Our Buddy Dive Kids Sea Camp offers a variety of training courses for adults and kids during the week. Our program includes SASY, Seal Team, JOW, AOW, Rescue, Jr. Divemaster, Divemaster, and Instructor courses.
 

St. Lucia: Luxury and Adventure

St. Lucia is pure magic, one of the Caribbean’s most romantic places. Tom and I love to return to St. Lucia every year. We look forward to being pampered, enjoying some couples time, and bringing Kids Sea Camp to a luxurious, romantic place like Anse Chastanet, a dream come true!
When Mrs. Karolin and Nick Troubetzkoy invited me to bring Kids Sea Camp to their world-famous resort, it was like Dorothy clicking her ruby slippers in The Wizard of Oz! To ensure privacy for honeymooners, we have the entire resort to ourselves – a true Kids Sea Camp takeover! Some families with older kids (15+) also stay at Jade Mountain, just above on the mountain. Anse Chastanet. That’s another level of romance and one of my favorite places on Earth to stay with Tom.
 
Imagine exploring vibrant reefs, encountering seahorses, and watching baby turtles hatch right on the beach. The dinner options let you indulge in world-class cuisine at four incredible restaurants. The options include Emeralds (a vegan restaurant), Balawoo (a treehouse restaurant with breathtaking views), the Jungle Grill, and Apsara Indian restaurant, all featuring Creole flavors and Caribbean cuisine.
 
Accommodations that are breathtaking
This resort wowed me from the moment I stepped into my room. The accommodations are breathtaking, with one- or two-bedroom options overlooking the magical Pitons with spectacular ocean views, or beachfront bungalows surrounded by lush gardens. Each room at this 4 Diamond resort is exquisitely decorated. The service is out of this world and exceeds expectations at every turn. St. Lucia delivers a constant stream of happy moments because the team goes above and beyond in everything they do.
 
The kids can make and decorate cupcakes with the head pastry chef, and do a chocolate tasting with the chocolatier! OMG, if you love chocolate, you have arrived in heaven. The chocolate lab, chocolate hands-and-feet massage, etc., are beyond enjoyable.
 
The diving is simply spectacular. From awesome wrecks and the local house reef to night dives exploring beautiful walls and vibrant soft-coral gardens, Scuba St. Lucia offers something for everyone. Oh, and you don’t need to touch your gear because this is 4 Diamond diving, and everything is done for you. It’s called Valet Diving. Then there is the Jazzy sunset cruise and live steel drum band, the karaoke and beach BBQ, and I can go on and on and on. This family week in St. Lucia is truly decadent. Every family member is pampered and spoiled, and the kids never want to leave!
 

Belize: Island Paradise and Marine Conservation

Blackbird Caye Resort in Belize, our newest gem (added in 2023), is a private island paradise. We’ve been taking families to Belize since 2011, but finding this perfect location, so close to incredible dive sites, was a game-changer. Imagine being just a 3-minute boat ride from the Witconcrete Wreck (you can even do it as a shore dive!) and only 6 minutes from the famous Elbow dive site! The Blue Hole, a must-do for any diver, is just an hour away.
 
My favorite here is the incredible number of eagle ray encounters, and another big favorite is the loggerhead turtles that aren’t shy! Others like to hunt lionfish or topside; my husband loves fly-fishing, while I enjoy dives with the kids. The boats are big, spacious, and comfy.
 
Do it the right way with eco-tourism
With its pristine white-sand beaches dotted with charming seaside bungalows, incredible diving, and a focus on marine conservation, Blackbird Caye has become a favorite! Thanks to owner Garen Simonyan’s passion for kids and the ocean, it’s a dream come true for eco-conscious families. Garen, a newer dad himself, has integrated educational experiences from the Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association into the kids’ activities. The week also includes marine presentations and educational excursions. The food is delicious, and the family-style meals are made from scratch and served at the beach restaurant. The best sunsets are at the beach bar and pool, where you can reminisce about the day and rest up for the next day’s adventures. Belize offers so much for non-divers and divers alike. We can book pre- or post-trip excursions to the jungle or ruins.
 

Philippines: Cultural Immersion and Underwater Wonders

The Philippines holds a special place in my heart. From the moment I was greeted with a hug and a flower necklace at the Manila airport, I knew I was in for something special. After a quick flight to Dumaguete, we arrived in Dauin. This resort has 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units, black-sand beaches, multiple pools, and the most fantastic dive boats I have ever seen. They look like giant water spiders! These boats are made of bamboo, are large and spacious, and offer valet diving, which basically means you do nothing. We serve hot chocolate, coffee, tea, biscuits, and cookies after every dive, and the dive-to-guide ratio is 1:4. The Filipinos are so much fun and love kids, so you can be sure they’ll have more fun than you!
 
Whale sharks are here
We get to do a very special dive that not many in the world get: the Whale Sharks of Oslob, on our own private boat with our staff. We also offer a special Kids Sea Camp Whale Shark Day. It’s one of the few times I can guarantee you will dive or snorkel with a whale shark. It’s just a huge wow. I’ve experienced 5 at a time.
 
Then there is Apo Island, where the reefs are so beautiful I actually cried underwater. At 18, seeing reefs this healthy for the first time was overwhelming; I sat and ogled the beauty before me, something I’d never seen in real life before.
 
The Kids Sea Camp trip also includes a mountain school, village tour, Chocolate Hills, zip lining, and many top-side cultural activities. I have packed it with local culinary delights, music, and fun for the entire family.
 
I often create longer Philippines vacations with multiple locations. Since families travel so far, I want to maximize their stay with a few trip options. You can visit www.familydivers.com, click the Kids Sea Camp drop-down, and see which islands I have included for our Philippines trip. This year, I’ve arranged 6 nights at Pura Vida Homes with Sea Explorers and 6 nights at Amun Ini on Bohol Island. Both offer Whale shark opportunities, macro, and topside fun. From Amun Ini, families can see the world’s smallest monkey, the Tarsier—a cute little furry critter with eyes that look like large AI-generated orbs. For 2026, I’ll switch to Dauin and Cabilao; call me, and I will happily spend as much time as you want telling you about the Philippines. The rooms are beautiful and spacious, and each resort offers incredible cuisine.
 

Indonesia: Luxury Liveaboards and Unforgettable Experiences

For the ultimate dive adventure, Indonesia is a must. Our luxurious liveaboard trips aboard the Arenui offer unparalleled service, exquisite cuisine, and access to some of the world’s most pristine dive sites, including Komodo, Raja Ampat, and the Forgotten Islands. The Arenui is truly “perfection,” as described by one of our long-time clients, Marcio Curvelo. With its stunning hand-carved interiors, fine linens, and state-of-the-art dive equipment, it redefines luxury dive travel. We offer land excursions, diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and pre- and post-Bali add-ons to create an unforgettable experience.
 

Why I Choose Each Destination

I hand-pick each Kids Sea Camp location with families in mind. We work closely with each resort and dive operator to create custom itineraries packed with unique activities, cultural experiences, and educational opportunities. We offer more destinations, each with its own appeal and unique experiences, creating a magical family diving experience that gives kids memories to last a lifetime.
 

 

Recharging with Ragu?

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The Arenui, Ragu

A quiet evening on the skydeck of the Arenui

By Tom Peyton

As dusk settles and the haunting melodies of Muslim hymns float through the air, our host and friend Luigi is hard at work in the tiny yet magical kitchen aboard his luxurious dive liveaboard, the Arenui.

Earlier that day, Luigi walked into the salon and showed me a steel bowl filled with different cuts of meat: Partrimi pork belly, fennel black pork sausage, and some regular beef. In his other hand, he carried carrots, onions, and chickpeas.

“Tonight we will have my famous Ragu!” he told Margo and me. He was right—his Ragu really is famous in our small foodie circle.

Resting before new clients’ arrival

The boat felt hushed, emptied of the first week’s guests who had already departed. Luigi slipped back into the kitchen, vanishing into his culinary world. He is a masterful chef, and we have often lost track of time together, creating feasts in each other’s kitchens in South Carolina or Kuala Lumpur.

Time with Luigi means savoring every stage of a dish, each taste accompanied by a new bottle of wine. Our conversations inevitably turn lively, swirling from politics to the economy, and always circling back to the food and wine before us.

That night aboard the Arenui, Margo, Luigi, and I let the aroma of his sumptuous Ragu seep into every nook of the ship as it lay peacefully in Tarakan Harbor.

The city lights of Tarakan

We walked up the steps to the ship’s upper deck and saw the table set for three, with a 2013 French Château Margaux breathing in a decanter.

The city lights of Tarakan traced the harbor’s edge, while the gentle putter of small fishing boats glided past our motionless liveaboard. The peace was a welcome contrast to the previous week’s bustle. This dinner felt like a deep breath before the next wave of divers arrived.

Margo and I sat waiting for Luigi and his Ragu. We enjoyed the night and the unique melodic rhythms of the Muslim chants. The “Adhan” is the call to prayer that invites Muslims to perform their mandatory prayers. Tonight, it sounded like five different hymns were playing at once.

Having grown up in a small Midwest town, I marveled at the strangeness and beauty of eating homemade Ragu with five kinds of meat, served by a true Italian chef on an Asian dive liveaboard in the heart of Indonesia, all while Islamic hymns echoed around us. The singular atmosphere filled me with gratitude for the extraordinary life Margo and I have created. I felt humbled and awestruck by the unexpected.

Lingering with Noodles

The Ragu was decadent and bursting with flavor, but the true revelation was the spaghetti, stewed gently in the sauce rather than simply boiled. Each time Luigi cooks, I discover a new technique or secret.

That night, as with so many spent with Luigi, nourished our spirits and bodies through the shared ritual of food. We were all weary from the week, but lingering over wine and home-cooked dishes reminded us of the deep bond that made us friends.

To see more images from Borneo (See link)

What is a Fishtropolis?

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Corals, Fish, Indonesia diving

There are no traffic jams in Fish City, Indonesia

By Tom Peyton

It’s tough to picture what it’s like to see a Fishtropolis for the first time. As a Caribbean diver, I had never come across anything similar. The coral structure and density just aren’t found in the Caribbean Sea, especially in shallow water.

Borneo wasn’t my first time seeing huge stretches of healthy coral. Places like Komodo, Raja Ampat, and the Forgotten Islands also have incredible marine life. Still, Borneo’s mix of hard and soft corals was beyond anything I had imagined. It was unlike anywhere else I’ve been lucky enough to explore.

The oldest known Brain Corals?

Hundreds of tabletop corals spread across the reef, making it look like an underwater city. Staghorn and antler corals form a base that stretches for miles in the shallow water. Huge Brain Corals are scattered throughout, some possibly hundreds of years old. The oldest known brain corals are between 900 and 1,000 years old.

The dense foundations of staghorn and tabletop corals painted the shallow water in vibrant shades of terracotta, peach, and soft pink. Just below, massive brain corals and overlapping lettuce-leaf petals added earthy, alien greens and deep browns to the underwater cityscape.

The Lettuce Leaf Coral grew thick and dense, a bit deeper than the rest of the reef. In some spots, the big overlapping petals at 30 to 40 feet were all I could see. It felt like floating through a scene from the movie Dune.

So why call it a Fishtropolis?

If you’ve never seen billions of fish in a shallow reef, it really does feel like New York City. Parrotfish, Damselfish, Butterflyfish, and small blue Triggerfish were everywhere, surrounded by Anthias—the small, brightly colored fish that gather in large groups near the hard corals. The sheer amount of fish reminded me of morning rush-hour traffic during a commute to New York City from Jersey one morning. And much like rush hour, there seemed to be fish lanes of movement throughout the coral city.

I could not believe how many Anthias there were. These little fish moved like snowflakes at night, drifting under a streetlight. Watching hundreds of thousands of them dart through the shallow water was amazing. Sunlight caught their movements, making it look as if someone from the shore was throwing millions of coins into the ocean.

Schooling Bumphead Parrotfish

On this dive, at least 10 turtles moved slowly through the busy Fishtropolis, weaving between the lively Damsels and the flashes of Anthias groups. Even better, 20 big Bumphead Parrotfish swam just a few feet in front of my dive buddy Luigi, who owns the Arenui, and me. We hid behind two large brain corals so we wouldn’t scare these amazing creatures.

Time seemed to slow down as we floated through the busy, healthy community of marine life. For me, it felt like an underwater opera. I didn’t know whether to cry for joy or just be amazed at how much life our planet can create when it’s left alone. Nature’s creativity was so huge it felt like I was on another planet in a distant galaxy, far away from Earth.

But this is Earth in its purest form, making beauty beyond anything I could imagine. After these dives, I would come up to the surface and feel a deep sense of gratitude. There was a quiet awe for the beauty of Fishtropolis.

To see more images from Borneo (See link)

The Ultimate Family Diving Vacation in St. Lucia

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ST. Lucia, Kids and diving, scuba diving with kids, kids sea camp

A Luxurious Legacy of Love, Now Shared with the Next Generation

Imagine this: Years ago, you and your beloved escaped to the emerald shores of St. Lucia, where the majestic Pitons framed your honeymoon at Anse Chastanet Resort—a four-diamond utopia renowned worldwide for its romantic allure. Whispered vows, sunset toasts, and the gentle rhythm of the Caribbean Sea created memories etched in eternity. Now, fast-forward to today: That same paradise beckons once more, not just for you, but for the beautiful family born from that union. For two enchanting weeks each summer, Kids Sea Camp charters this luxurious haven exclusively for families, transforming it into a decadent playground where parents and children dive into adventure together. It’s a rare opportunity to celebrate life’s greatest gifts—love, legacy, and laughter—amidst the island’s timeless beauty.

From July 25 to August 1 and August 1 to 8, 2026, families from around the globe converge on Anse Chastanet for an irresistible blend of opulence and exploration. Whether your little ones are wide-eyed beginners or your teens are seasoned underwater enthusiasts, this event promises transformative moments that bind generations. Learn to scuba dive side by side, capture stunning underwater photography, and forge memories that will echo through lifetimes. Dive into the details and secure your slice of paradise.

Underwater Wonders: Where Novices Become Explorers and Experts Soar

St. Lucia, Kids and sciba diving, Anse chastanet, Kids Sea Camp, Family Dive Adventures, Scuba DivingSt. Lucia’s crystalline waters are the ultimate classroom for family diving, and Anse Chastanet’s house reef marine park is your private gateway. For budding divers, gentle shallows teem with vibrant coral gardens and friendly marine life, making it the perfect spot for kids and parents to earn certifications together under expert guidance. Seasoned families will thrill to world-class sites: Plunge beneath the iconic Pitons for dramatic wall dives like Superman’s Flight, explore historic wrecks shrouded in mystery, and encounter schools of tropical fish dancing in the currents.

Young adventurers get the royal treatment with their own double-decker private boat, staffed by dedicated instructors from Scuba St. Lucia—the Caribbean’s premier team for family diving. With unmatched expertise, warm hearts, and infectious smiles, they ensure every child feels safe, empowered, and exhilarated. No heavy lifting here: Valet diving means your gear is handled with effortless courtesy, leaving you free to relax and revel in the adventure. Black-sand beaches offer effortless shore dives, where families might witness turtle hatchlings emerge under starlit skies or embark on mesmerizing night dives. Come discover the best of St. Lucia underwater—a symphony of turtles, trumpetfish, queen angels, eagle rays, and iridescent parrotfish that will leave you breathless.

Above the Waves: Indulgent Activities for Every Soul

ST. LUCIA, KIDS SEA CAMP, SCUBA AND KIDS, night diving, Family Scuba Diving Vacations, Family Dive Adventures, Scuba Diving, Kids and scubaAnse Chastanet isn’t just a dive resort; it’s a decadent sanctuary where land-based luxuries rival the sea’s splendor. Stroll volcanic black sand beaches, where the earth’s warmth meets the ocean’s embrace. Families bond over jungle biking through lush trails, paddleboarding across serene bays, or kayaking at dawn. Sunrise and sunset yoga sessions on the shore restore the spirit, while culinary delights await: Dive into chocolate labs for hands-on truffle-making or cupcake decorating classes that turn sweet treats into family masterpieces.

Thrill-seekers can conquer Piton hikes for panoramic views that steal your breath, while relaxed afternoons unfold with tennis matches, beach volleyball, art classes inspired by the island’s vibrant palette, or simply lounging in hammocks. The world-renowned spa offers rejuvenating treatments infused with local botanicals—perfect for parents seeking a moment of bliss amid the excitement.

Dining is an epicurean journey across four exquisite restaurants: Savor plant-based innovations at the vegetarian haven, spice up your evening with authentic Indian flavors, ascend to the romantic Tree House for elevated Caribbean fusion, or unwind at the Beach Grill with toes-in-the-sand grilled specialties. Each meal is a tantalizing delight, crafted from fresh, global-inspired ingredients that cater to every palate, ensuring no one leaves the table unsatisfied.

Elegant Escapes: Rooms That Whisper Luxury

Perched on lush hillsides with open-air designs, Anse Chastanet’s accommodations are among the most breathtaking in the Caribbean—and the world. Wake to uninterrupted vistas of the Pitons piercing the sky and the endless turquoise ocean below. Some suites feature whimsical swings or living trees integrated into the architecture, blending nature’s artistry with sophisticated elegance. Spacious, airy, and infused with island charm, these rooms offer a decadent retreat where families unwind in style after days of adventure.

For families with older children, elevate the experience further: Parents can retreat to the celestial heights of sister property Jade Mountain, a sanctuary of infinity pools and star-gazing sanctuaries, while young adults savor Anse Chastanet’s vibrant energy. Dine and dive together by day, then retire to your respective havens—creating the perfect balance of family connection and personal indulgence.

Why Resist? This is the Family Vacation of a Lifetime

In a world of ordinary getaways, Anse Chastanet’s Family Diving Takeover with Kids Sea Camp stands as an unparalleled masterpiece—decadent, transformative, and utterly irresistible. Here, honeymoon dreams evolve into family legacies, where the magic of St. Lucia unites generations in joy and discovery. With Scuba St. Lucia’s professional team leading the way, every moment is safe, seamless, and spectacular. Don’t miss this exclusive event—spaces fill quickly. Book now with us and let the adventure begin. Your family’s story awaits beneath the waves and beyond.

I’m a Sheep Herder

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Shaun the sheep, kids sea camp

Herding Sheep at Kids Sea Camp. “Shaun the Sheep”

Shaun the sheep, kids sea camp, kids and divingI’ve been obsessed with photographing sheep since seeing Dr. Alex Mustard’s famous photograph. I booked my Kids Sea Camp Philippines trip with Margo and Tom Peyton in 2020. When I learned that “Shaun the Sheep” could easily be found on most dives, I was excited about shooting this little sea slug. The guides at Amunini are incredible, and you can find almost anything you ask for, including the sheep! (Shout out to Reggie and Dave.) Finding Shaun the Sheep underwater is fun, but capturing a photo of one of the critters you could imagine is quite the challenge.

They are among the most difficult to capture because they live on a single green leaf growing on the sandy bottom. Furthermore, they tend to blend in with their environment, namely, the leaf they’re trying to eat.

Be patience

On the first dive, Reggie, my guide from Amuni Ini Divers, was excited because he found me one. Reggie pointed to a leaf with a green blob. I thought to myself, “Is that it? That can’t be it?” But it was!

After several shots, I finally saw the creature when I zoomed in on the viewfinder. It was tiny, green, and cute. I kept taking photos, but it was time to move on. A few seahorses, pygmy squid, and nudibranchs were nearby; if I have to give one piece of advice, it is to have patience and more patience! You must stop and take a decent photo of a sheep.

I’m a sheep herder

Upon finding Shaun, I spent 30 minutes on one leaf on my second dive! Kim, my lovely dive buddy and wife, was gone when I looked up. She finally decided to join another group, leaving me with Dave, my excellent Amun ini guide. Finally, Dave wrote on his slate, “Have you had enough of Shaun the Sheep?” Onto the seahorses we went. In the end, I ended up with some excellent photos. Nothing like Alex’s masterpiece. But it’s a work in progress.

I look forward to our next trip to Lembeh in January with Margo and Tom, with Family Dive Adventures and Murex Divers. Just call me the Sheep Herder of Indonesia.

By Marcio Curvello

 

What are sheep?

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Shaun the sheep, Kids Sea Camp, Margo (eyton

Counting Sheep and falling asleep

Sea slugs, Kids Sea Camp, diving with Kids, diving with family
Shaun the Sheep by Margo Peyton

I have been to the Philippines many times. It is my favorite place in the world to dive for many reasons. One is that I have the world’s best dive buddy who can spot almost any alien! Tom has become a treasure hunter, and at the end of most trips, everyone is following him. The Philippines is the #1 spot for finding Aliens. Another reason is that my sister, Biggsy, lives there, and she introduced me to my first muck dive and showed me my first sheep. Lastly, in all my 35 years of diving and traveling the world, it’s the only place I have fallen asleep and dreamt about. Now I fall asleep counting sheep.

What are sheep?

Last summer, we arrived at Amunini, and Marcio was chatting about this funny little sheep named Shaun. After the first day, Kewin also seemed to be all over that topic. “Sheep,” I said. “What are sheep?” Tom’s ears perked up, too. Biggsy and I buddied up on my first sheep dive, and she quickly waved me over. She pointed out a green leaf the size of a rose petal. Was that the sheep? She pointed to the leaf. I could see nothing with my naked eye. It looked like sand stuck to the leaf. I peered through my 60mm Macro lens and saw it. Shaun the Sheep. It was so tiny that it was gone if you did not remain perfectly still, and you had to reset again.

The size of a grain of sand

A single grain of rice was adult-sized. What’s so special about that? A flea is the same size, but this little guy was adorable. It had rosy cheeks, funny, wobbly ears, and it was green or white with pink. Kewin found one that was yellow and blue. This was incredible! We were all counting and herding sheep. I did find the same leaf in Roatan in August, and I found the cousin. (See the Gallery)

I am looking forward to my panda finding me some sheep.

Margo Peyton

From Tech diver to Kids Sea Camp Believer

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Tech Diver, Kids Sea Camp, Magic, kids and scuba

The Kids Sea Camp Magic, How it all began:

Written by Peter Kockisch, 2026

My superpower

When I was a child, I was completely fascinated by space. When anyone asked me what superpower I wanted, my answer would be “flying.” The thought of gliding weightlessly through space or simply lifting off the ground to visit faraway places on Earth fueled my imagination.

I was born in the former East Germany, in a tiny village with fewer than a hundred inhabitants, truly in the middle of nowhere. Growing up in such a quiet, rural place naturally connected me to animals and nature, but even then, I dreamed of exploring the world beyond those fields. I wanted to travel to see other continents and places that lay beyond the “wall.” In 1990, when I was six years old, East Germany underwent an unexpected transformation as it reunited with the West. At that age, I was far too young to grasp the significance of what was happening or to imagine the new opportunities this change would one day bring to me.

Learning to fly underwater

Fast forward fifteen years, and my passion for animals and nature had only grown stronger. It led me to work with elephants at one of Germany’s most renowned zoos, in Leipzig. In Germany, apprenticeships are highly regarded, lasting three years and combining hands-on practice with theoretical learning in school. After completing mine, I received a scholarship for further education that allowed me to fulfill a long-held dream- traveling farther than I had ever been. After my five-week internship in Thailand studying Asian elephants and the communities that lived alongside them, I seized the opportunity to fulfill another childhood dream: flying. I learned to fly underwater by completing my PADI Open Water Diver certification.

Hooked on underwater flight

On my way back to Germany, I couldn’t stop thinking about the incredible feeling of weightlessness and the deep connection I had experienced with water, nature, and wildlife. I was blown away. After a few years, that experience was still affecting me so much that I made the bold decision to quit my job working with elephants, after over a decade, to begin a new career as a dive instructor in Roatán, Honduras.

Meeting Margo

My new chapter began with Subway Watersports (now Turquoise Divers) at Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort in Roatán. After the long slowdown during COVID in 2020, business was finally picking up again. It was around this time that I first heard about Kids Sea Camp and its founder, Margo Peyton. Daren, the dive shop manager at Subway Watersports, entrusted me with organizing the upcoming Kids Sea Camp event. At this time, he also gave me an unsettling warning about the owner, noting that she could be very particular about how things were done.

Kids Sea Camp Magic, kids and scuba, Kids Sea Camp

Tec-Divers often don’t enjoy the best reputation

Months later, after getting to know each other better, Margo and I looked back on the situation with a smile and some laughter, realizing that we had both entered the relationship with very mixed feelings. I had heard stories of Margo being rigorous and strict, which was intimidating, while she had heard that I was a Tec-Diver, which somewhat unsettled her. I have to admit that Tec-Divers often don’t enjoy the best reputation. They are sometimes seen as arrogant, self-focused, and ill-suited to working with children, largely because many have little interest in the work. So, it’s fair to say there wasn’t much enthusiasm on either side about me taking responsibility for the entire Kids Sea Camp week on the dive shop’s side, at least not until the week finally began.

Safety first, fun second

On the first day, I was nervous, mostly because of the heavy load of responsibility. I wasn’t the most experienced instructor at that time, and I would be working with so many children. Once I met the whole Kids Sea Camp team, all those worries disappeared, and I ended up loving every moment of the whole week. Margo and her husband, Tom, the company’s vice president, turned out to be some of the kindest people I had ever met, and they run a truly unique business model.

A clear vision for the company

However, they both have a very clear vision of how every program should be conducted, following their motto: safety first, fun second. Once I saw what a Kids Sea Camp week truly means, I fully understood why Margo sometimes has that reputation of being difficult and non-negotiable when it comes to child diver safety. Working with children in SCUBA is no joke, and it is a big responsibility that must be approached with the utmost detail and care. Margo has a flawless record and unmatched experience in the diving industry when it comes to teaching and diving with kids, and anyone who would even think to challenge that should not work with kids. From the moment the kids step into the water, every detail matters: supervision must be constant, instructor-to-student ratios kept low, and the course’s pace adjusted to each child’s needs.

Ratios matter when training kid divers

Margo provides detailed, clear information and instructions on ratios, depth, and level of care for students to all dive managers. Her standards are high because even the smallest mistake could have serious consequences. Even with all the responsibility, nothing compares to the joy of watching the children learn, grow, and experience the underwater world in a safe environment. Even more rewarding is watching their parents join them beneath the surface, sharing that magical world together as a family while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

At Kids Sea Camp, newly certified divers are supervised by their instructors for the full week, even after they complete their course. Parents are welcome to join and observe how instructors dive, communicate, and position themselves with the kids in the water, so they can learn and emulate these techniques. This helps parents improve their own dive skills so they can be good, safe dive buddies for their kids, making family dives fun and safe for all. 

Kids Sea Camp changed my life

Kids Sea Camp’s slogan promises, “Give them a week they will remember forever”, yet the magic extends far beyond the children. After my first week in Roatan, I was instantly captivated. Since then, I’ve joined Kids Sea Camp adventures across the globe, from the Cayman Islands and Belize to Bonaire and even as far away as Fiji.

Kids Sea Camp Magic, kids and scuba, Kids Sea CampOf all the experiences in recreational, technical, and cave diving I have had, my time working with Kids Sea Camp has been the most transformative for my approach to teaching. One unforgettable chapter that shaped my perspective and influenced both me and my teaching style was when Margo asked me to begin teaching Leo, an 8-year-old boy with autism. Before enrolling in his PADI Junior Open Water Diver course, Margo and I worked together for over 3 years doing the PADI Seal Team and PADI Bubblemaker programs with him at his own pace. Something that was really helpful for Leo was getting to do the PADI Seal Team program in the ocean, instead of just in the pool, as is traditionally done in the PADI Seal Team program.

KSC instructors are special

Kids Sea Camp Instructors receive special waivers from PADI to take PADI Seal Team students into the ocean under very specific conditions, allowing them to explore the underwater world as long as conditions remain safe and conducive to their learning. This created the perfect environment for Leo to become comfortable with diving before his PADI Open Water course. 

With Kids Sea Camp, the SASY and PADI Seal Team programs are fun and safe introductions to SCUBA for kids that are not quite old enough to get certified yet- starting at the age of 5. The PADI Seal Team program consists of skill-based “AquaMissions,” conducted in a confined environment, which helped to prepare Leo perfectly for his next adventure. What began as a lesson in basic diving skills for Leo quickly became a lesson in patience, empathy, and adaptability for me.

Waiting on Leo 

Once Leo was ready, both mentally and physically, to begin his PADI Jr. Open Water Diver course, we started, as always, with equipment setup. Within just a few minutes, Leo was ready to move on to something else, asking if we could go play at the beach instead. I realized I would need to take a completely different approach to teaching this course than I was accustomed to with adults. This involved lots of breaks and starting over, but on his timeline, not mine. When we entered the water, I was very impressed by how well Leo had retained all the skills he had learned in the PADI Seal Team program.

For the more advanced skills, I adjusted my methods by breaking each skill down into smaller steps, incorporating frequent underwater games (such as treasure hunts, rock-paper-scissors, or simply letting him enjoy zero gravity), and watching the marine life around us. Incorporating regular breaks to keep him engaged and hydrated was also key. 

Slowly and steadily is the way

We progressed slowly and steadily until we reached his biggest challenge: the fully flooded mask and the mask removal and replacement exercise. Common issues with this skill include accidentally inhaling through the nose or experiencing a burning sensation in the eyes from chlorine or saltwater. Leo struggled with the sensation and developed a mental and emotional block, which was not easy to overcome. The first time he failed the skill, we ascended together. When he became emotional, we went to play on the beach until he was ready to resume, as he requested. 

The second time we tried, he was already anticipating the sting of salt water in his eyes and worrying about his nose. This resulted in this mental block growing, leading him to believe that he could not succeed, which made him want to quit entirely. It was heartbreaking to see him struggle so intensely over these skills. I realized my adaptive teaching methods would require some help from his parents, plus some more fine-tuning on my part. 

Kids Sea Camp Magic, kids and scuba, Kids Sea Camp

It takes a village

We had a whole week of 1-on-1, which gave us lots of time to overcome these hurdles. By using some of the tips I received from both Leo’s mother and Margo, I quickly gained his trust and friendship. Throughout the week, we continued with more underwater games and reviewing easy skills he had already mastered to build his confidence each day. This helped to end each training session on a successful note. I worked on breaking the skills down into smaller components, practicing mask clearing and removal slowly on the surface before gradually moving deeper. With patience, encouragement, and plenty of positive reinforcement, Leo gradually gained confidence and ultimately performed the skills flawlessly. He was so excited that he wanted to try it again, immediately exuding pride and joy in his accomplishments. 

Stay Positive

As an instructor of children, it can be challenging to decide the best way to teach a specific skill to achieve a positive, happy outcome with kids. We want children to feel safe, trust us, and maximize their enjoyment and sense of accomplishment every step of the way, which looks a little different for each child.

Sometimes this means slowing down the course flow and providing 1-on-1 attention. With Leo, I wanted to build his confidence and have him perform the skills reliably and comfortably. After working patiently with him over several trips on these skills, his confidence improved, and he was excited to continue his training. He just required a little extra guidance and encouragement.

Shouting for joy

I will never forget the moment he completed his confined-water dives. We looked at each other, shouting with joy through our ScubaPro regulators, and he gave me a big underwater hug. Even now, looking back on this moment brings me pure joy. After this, we faced further challenges at sea, which Leo successfully overcame thanks to the trust we had built between us. Ultimately, I was confidently able to certify Leo as a Junior Scuba Diver. His family and I, as well as Margo & Tom, were immensely proud of these achievements, especially given that at times it seemed uncertain whether he could meet all the performance requirements.

With the full support of Kids Sea Camp and his parents, Leo continued diving with me on several Kids Sea Camp trips as a PADI Junior Scuba Diver. With time and maturity, Leo gradually gained more confidence and ability until he was able to complete the rest of the PADI Junior Open Water course and upgrade his rating at the age of 12.

Empathy and Understanding are keys

This experience showed me the power and importance of patience, flexibility, empathy, and understanding. It taught me that effective teaching isn’t solely about technical proficiency. With children and diving, it’s about fostering trust, patience, and emotional safety, enabling every diver to discover their own potential, which goes beyond the surface. I have since encountered many similar cases in which adult students were on the verge of giving up.

Adult students need patience to

By remembering Leo and applying similar strategies I learned with him, I was able to continue their training and guide them to become confident, happy divers who were grateful that I had not given up on them. In the end, I feel deeply grateful to Leo, who showed me that patience, trust, adaptive techniques, and persistence are powerful tools for achieving seemingly impossible goals. Working with incredible students like Leo has shown me that safety is at the heart of every adventure, creating an environment where children can safely learn and enjoy their time in the water.

My Kids Sea Camp journey never ends

My journey with Kids Sea Camp began as a new PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor, eager to find my place in the dive industry. After being captivated by the “Kids Sea Camp magic,” my connection quickly deepened. Over time, this connection extended beyond travel, leading me to assist in the office and become part of the dedicated team that brings these unforgettable experiences to life.

Margo and Tom are inspiring

Along the way, after sharing many memorable experiences with Kids Sea Camp, my relationship with Margo and Tom has grown beyond a purely professional one, evolving into a genuine friendship in which we share personal experiences and visits beyond business gatherings. I am deeply grateful to Kids Sea Camp, and to both of them, for inspiring my professional growth, nurturing my love for teaching, and showing me just how transformative these underwater experiences can be for the children, their parents, and everyone who guides them.

As a little kid fascinated by space, I’ve always dreamed of flying while exploring faraway places. Working with Kids Sea Camp and flying over the ocean alongside young explorers lets me live that dream in a way I could never have imagined. 

Our KSC Gallery

One Mom. One Kid. Zero Worries. A Kids Sea Camp Adventure.

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Kids Sea Camp, Single mom, diving with kids

Mehgan and Cash, a mother and son, share their love:

“The Best Possible Way”

I’ve traveled solo with my son, Cassius “Cash,” since he was four months old. Adventure has always been part of our shared language. As a mom, I taught him to freedive when he was very young, and over the years we’ve traveled often, exploring new places and spending countless hours in the water together. My own career has taken me on expeditions and fieldwork for months at a time, so I’m no stranger to complex travel, remote destinations, or operating far from home. Yet this past summer in the Philippines, traveling with Kids Sea Camp felt entirely different—in the best possible way.

Cash, now 12, was newly scuba certified, and this was our first official scuba trip together. The Scuba Mom in me loved that milestone, a mix of excitement and anticipation, along with the quiet hope that my growing boy would love this next level of underwater exploration. Because let’s be honest, a great first scuba trip felt like my best shot at convincing my soon-to-be teenager that ocean adventures with his mom would still be a good idea long into the future. The stakes felt high – especially knowing that traveling solo with a child in a foreign country usually means staying several steps ahead, anticipating logistics, navigating unfamiliar systems, and managing details in real time. It’s always rewarding, but rarely effortless.

Kids Sea Camp was it

From the moment we arrived, it was clear that every detail had been thoughtfully handled. They carefully managed transfers, accommodations, meals, dive operations, guides, and schedules. Everything was new and exciting for both Cash and me, yet I was spared the mental load and constant decision-making that usually comes with adventure travel. Kids Sea Camp’s deep familiarity with these destinations meant no guessing and no trial-and-error learning. Margo and Tom know the people, the places, and the diving logistics. Accommodations are thoughtfully selected, dive sites are chosen to fit experience, and they seamlessly move families through each experience in a way that makes the most of every day and every dive.

The rare ability for Mom to relax

Our three-part journey began in Bohol, continued to Dauin, Pura Vida Homes, and Salaya Beach Houses with Sea Explorers. Throughout the trip, Kids Sea Camp and Bigs Eggert handled every detail. Bigs Eggert serves as the on-the-ground coordinator for Kids Sea Camp in the Philippines. Her warmth, local knowledge, and steady presence made every stop feel safe and welcoming. As a long-time local, Bigs knows these people, and she is a wonderful example of the long-standing close relationships and friendship she has with Margo and Tom Peyton.

Our first dives together took place in the strikingly blue waters off Amunini in Bohol, and Cash was immediately at ease. He was calm, confident, and fully present. The incredible team at Sea Explorers reinforced that confidence, with PADI-trained guides who specialize in working with kids. With a 1:2 guide-to-kid ratio and private guides on request, we felt spoiled by the level of personal care. The diving was never rushed and always perfectly paced for us.  Knowing seasoned professionals handled all the behind-the-scenes details let me fully step into my role as my son’s dive buddy. I was not the trip coordinator or details manager. Mom could simply dive with him, ready to experience it all together.

Cash diving with Whale Sharks

After several days of diving, delicious food, warm hospitality, and fun evening activities, we moved on to the next stage of our trip.   Pura Vida Beach & Dive Resort in Dauin for another full week of Kids Sea Camp Adventure. Two underwater experiences stand out most vividly. One was our private whale shark experience at Oslob, a whale shark sanctuary. This was Cash’s first time diving with whale sharks, and watching him remain steady and composed as six to seven enormous whale sharks swam close around us was unforgettable.

The other moments came again and again over many dives. While exploring expansive coral gardens, Cash and I would catch each other’s eye underwater, sweep our arms wide to signal the scale of it all, then follow with the universal “mind blown” hand signal overhead. It felt like diving straight into Finding Nemo together. It was truly unbelievable to see so much life and color stretching as far as the eye could see.

Above the water, the Philippines left just as strong an impression. The local people were warm, welcoming, and engaging. Through cultural evening presentations arranged by Kids Sea Camp and hosted by Pura Vida Homes, we experienced traditional dancing, stilt performances, singing, and traditional dress, along with stick dances—we were even encouraged to join the festivities with the locals. It led to many laughs and an unforgettable experience, with the incredible staff preparing all the performances and food.

This trip was not just a passing-through experience. We connected meaningfully with the people and the place, and within our group, there was a genuine sense of community as families from around the world shared meals, laughter, and moments that will stay with us long after the trip.

Kids Sea Camp is great for single Moms

One of the most reassuring aspects of the journey was that we were never truly on our own, unless we wanted to be. That balance matters. Anyone who has traveled solo with a child knows how easily unknowns can pull attention away from both enjoyment and safety. With Kids Sea Camp, we’ve already accounted for those unknowns through decades of experience. The result is confidence and ease that let us focus on what truly matters: diving safely, spending quality time together, and fully enjoying the experience.

This balance became especially meaningful when Cash came down with a bug for a few days during the trip. Margo and Bigs immediately stepped up, helping coordinate a doctor coming directly to the room to see him. As a solo parent traveling internationally with my child, I found that level of advocacy and support to be a huge comfort and truly above and beyond.

The original Kids Sea Camp mom

The Kids Sea Camp leadership on our trip, including founder Margo Peyton, was exceptional. Margo is also a mom, and that perspective is woven into every detail of how Kids Sea Camp operates. With 26 years of experience, they have refined not just logistics, but care in creating an environment where families of every configuration are supported, guided, and able to be fully present.

Since he was very little, Cash has always been my favorite dive buddy. Taking that adventure to the next level, 60 feet below the surface, was profoundly meaningful for me. It brought pride, awe, gratitude, and a quiet awareness of how quickly time passes. Thanks to Kids Sea Camp and their incredible collaborators, including Bigs, I was not tasked with managing the experience. Memories made, for both Cash and me, we were fully living it.

Even for someone deeply familiar with adventure travel and expedition life, traveling with Kids Sea Camp is a hard act to follow – and truly one of a kind in the diving industry. For families considering scuba-centric travel with their kids, this experience is not just seamless. It is exceptional. (See Event Calendar)

Kids Sea Camp is genuinely something extraordinary. I’m grateful we got to be part of this experience.

Margo & Tom, Cash, and I would love to join another KSC adventure!

On to Buddy Dive Bonaire for Kids Sea Camp Thanksgiving!

All the Best,
Mehgan

MEHGAN HEANEY-GRIER
Freediver • Explorer • Storyteller
mehganheaneygrier.com

It’s about family bonding, shared experiences

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ST. LUCIA, KIDS SEA CAMP, SCUBA AND KIDS, night diving, Family Scuba Diving Vacations, Family Dive Adventures, Scuba Diving, Kids and scuba

Kids Sea Camp changed my life

Hello, I’m Charlie. I just wanted to share with you why Kids Sea Camp has been so important to my family and me. My mom signed my brother Gus and me up for our first family dive vacation with Kids Sea Camp when I was 12, and Gus was 11. Since then, there have been many; I had no idea how much those trips would shape my life, not just as a diver, but as a person.

From a kid to an adult diver

Over the past nearly 14 years, I’ve been fortunate enough to travel with Margo and Tom. Their Kids Sea Camp dive team travels to destinations such as St. Lucia, Honduras, the Cayman Islands, and Belize. What began as a kid learning to scuba dive turned into a journey of growth, confidence, and family connection. These dive adventures have stayed with me into adulthood.

As a now 23-year-old looking back, it’s almost surreal to see how much I’ve grown while still feeling the same excitement and joy every time I return to a Kids Sea Camp family dive vacation. I remember standing in front of all the families for my first closing, nervously reciting a poem I wrote about diving just to win one of the really cool prizes given to anyone who read their poem at the end of the trip. Fast forward more than a decade, and I found myself in Belize watching my younger cousins do the exact same thing, experiencing that same joy, confidence, and sense of belonging that I felt all those years ago.

More than diving, it’s family bonding

Kids Sea Camp has always meant more to me than diving ever did. It’s about family bonding, shared experiences, and learning together. Some of my family’s most meaningful memories, photos, and stories come directly from these trips. Because of Kids Sea Camp, our family didn’t just learn to dive, we grew into confident, capable divers together, thanks to truly world-class training in an environment built on safety, encouragement, and fun.

One of the most meaningful parts of that journey has been watching my mom overcome her fear of diving. Early on, diving was extremely intimidating for her; she was filled with anxiety just thinking about going underwater. Margo, at Kids Sea Camp, created a space where she could learn at her own pace, feel supported by her private instructor, and slowly build confidence alongside us.

Over time, that fear turned into comfort and confidence. Eventually, diving turned into genuine enjoyment for her. Being able to share dives with my mom, who is calm on the boat, and being with her underwater has become one of the most special parts of these trips for me. Seeing her grow to enjoy and love diving with our family is something I’ll always be grateful for, and it’s a reminder of how Kids Sea Camp brings families together in a way that lasts far beyond the week itself.

Charlie Mosley, 2026

My Ultimate Dive Buddy

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Dive buddy, Sasy program, kids sea camp

A dedicated dad’s ultimate dream comes true at  Kids Sea Camp.

“My kid’s a diver!” Shouting these words from a mountaintop has been a dream for 11 long years. The day my daughter, Hailey, was born, I began fantasizing about sharing my deep passion for the ocean with her. I couldn’t imagine a better dive buddy — swimming along, hand in hand, discovering the secrets of the sea. Throughout her toddler years, some dads in my circle of friends lamented that their adventurous pastimes would have to take a back seat to parenting. “What a cop out,” I thought.

The plan was simple

Make travel and diving irresistible to her. I started early, with each bedtime story focused on fantastical sea creatures, miraculous mermaids, and amazing underwater adventures. As she grew, we watched every kid-friendly dive-related movie  I could find. Soon she was naming marine life,e and swimming in the ocean became second nature. When I spoke to her third-grade class on career day about being editor of Sport Diver magazine, I watched her beam with pride. The plan was working, albeit far too slowly for my impatient heart. Then Kids Sea Camp (KSC) changed everything.

The Patron Saint of family diving, Margo Peyton

Our introduction to Kids Sea Camp, a unique family dive vacation that combined everything an ocean-loving family could ask for, was at Cobalt Coast Resort in the Cayman Islands. Hailey was then 4 years old. KSC offered world-class diving for adults, kid-tailored activities for kids aged 4-17,  PADI certifications, and specialty courses. They also provide daily educational, cultural, and social events for all. KSC’s SASY program was the perfect indoctrination into the dive life for Hailey. Being around diving kids, hearing their stories, and making new friends from around the world fanned her spark of interest into a flame. It didn’t hurt that KSC founder and patron saint of family diving, Margo Peyton, made a point of spending personal time in the ocean with Hailey.  Thanks to Peyton’s irresistible enthusiasm for training the next generation of divers, once timid Hailey gained enough confidence, and the hook had been set.

Joining the dive tribe

A few years later, we returned to Kids Sea Camp at Buddy Dive Resort on Bonaire, where 8-year-old Hailey joined the PADI Seal Team program. The mini scuba rig gave her the experience of a diver, breathing through a regulator. She completed all 5 aqua missions, and I enjoyed my first dive with her under the dock.   What a breakthrough. I continued her momentum, freediving on family vacations and spending as much time as possible getting to know the ocean. When she was 10, ready to become a Junior Open Water Diver, we booked KSC’s Thanksgiving week at Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia. This exquisite and secluded luxury resort with an onsite PADI 5-star dive operation, Scuba St. Lucia, was perfect for the entire family. The time was right for Hailey to join the dive tribe.
I’ve always believed that anticipation is one of the best things about travel. Adding a life-changing event like Hailey’s certification only intensified that joy. Months before we began putting together her first scuba kit, we tried on wetsuits, fit-tested the Scubapro masks and fins, all provided by KSC. I was her dive buddy with gear. A few weeks before takeoff, we dove into the PADI E-Learning materials, watching her absorb the physics of diving and safety protocols was as much a learning experience for me as it was for her. When the venerable dive table came into play, I broke out in a cold sweat. Thankfully, Hailey helped me remember my fundamentals, and she passed with ease.

Anse Chastanet

Arriving at Anse Chastanet is a rejuvenation. Surrounded by 600 acres of thriving rainforest, the intimate 49-room resort spills down a lush mountainside to a pristine volcanic beach embracing a crystalline bay that shelters a rich marine reserve. Fragrant tropical flowers adorn trees, tables, and the staff. The view across the bay from our room, framing the island’s famed twin peaks, Gros and Petit Piton, against the Caribbean sunset, defies description. This experience would surely set Hailey’s dive trip expectations to impossibly high levels. Then again, that’s what Kids Sea Camp is all about. (See our Calendar of KSC events)
One of my favorite things about Kids Sea Camp is the relaxed, family vibe. Strangers don’t stay that way for long, especially the children. Friendships form instantly when you’re diving headfirst into new adventures together. Plus, there are lizards to chase, beaches to comb, stars to count, and cannonballs to launch off the top deck of the dive boat. When training begins, the kids slip into a blissful routine of discovery, both underwater and inside themselves. Over 30 years of organizing group travel events around the globe, Margo has created a unique and valuable culture in the diving world. She is building a tribe of like-minded families from different walks of life who share a common love for the ocean — and kinship.

Kids Sea Camp makes travel simple

Traveling to exotic locales with children and grandparents in tow can pose many challenges. Kids Sea Camp makes it simple, safe, and sanguine. There’s a reason why we consistently meet families on their third, sixth, and even eighth KSC adventure. Bonding is an understatement. Relationships born here endure for years. The experience is just that powerful.
On this trip, we invited my mother-in-law, Marsha, a newly certified diver herself, to join us. The possibility of a three-generation dive could not be missed. So, as Hailey was completing her final confined water dive under the careful guidance of Scuba St. Lucia’s instructors, we achieved the trifecta. Loose on the house reef after her required skills were completed, parents, grandparents, brothers, and sisters joined for their first dive together.
Holding Hailey’s tiny hand as we toured the reef was euphoric. She led the way, pointing out colorful reef fish and hidden critters while Marsha and I followed, enraptured by the experience. Near the end of the dive, Hailey and I shared a moment alone, kneeling in the sand, practicing signals. I am not ashamed to admit that I shed a few manly tears of joy.

I finally had my dive buddy.

My long-awaited fantasy had become a reality. But there was one unexpected and equally wonderful side effect. Heather, my wife of more than 26 years, has long suffered an unrealistic fear of marine life, despite being a competitive swimmer and water polo player in her youth. Nothing proved more powerful than watching her own daughter become a diver. During Hailey’s final open-water check-out dive, with parents joining, Heather followed the group on a snorkel. When we surfaced, the most surprising words came out of her mouth: “I’m ready to try scuba diving.” To my good fortune, Margo was within earshot. Hugs ensued. (And a few more manly tears.) Guess who’s getting certified at Kids Sea Camp next year?
By Eric Michael