Family Stories

More than just a vacation

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Margo Peyton, Kids and diving, Family Scuba Vacations, Family Scuba Diving Vacations, Family Dive Adventures, Scuba Diving, Kids and scuba

Dear Fellow Parents, Grandparents, and Fellow Ocean Adventurers

As I reflect on the journey that led me to create Kids Sea Camp 25 years ago, my heart swells with a mix of joy, gratitude, and a touch of nostalgia. This isn’t just a business to me. Kids Sea Camp is a love letter to my own children, Robbie and Jennifer. And now to my precious grandson, amazing Zayne.

When I first held Robbie and Jen in my arms, I looked into their innocent eyes and saw my own reflection staring back. In that instant, I knew I had to be better, to do better, for them. Motherhood wasn’t just a role. It is a calling to instill the values that matter most—love, life, family, respect, and kindness. But back then, I never imagined how they would graduate from high school, head to college, and build lives of their own before they spread their wings. They have graduating high school, heading to college, and building lives of their own. Those moments of them learning to crawl, walk, ride a bike, swim, snorkel, and dive? They blur into a beautiful haze, leaving us wishing we’d savored every second.

Kids Sea Camp, the living classroom

That’s why I founded Kids Sea Camp: to create a “living classroom”. Where families could unplug from the everyday chaos and reconnect in the most profound way—through the ocean’s embrace. I wanted Robbie and Jen to see the world beyond our doorstep. To gain a global perspective that fostered open-mindedness and dissolved judgments. We traveled to places like Yap, where stone money holds value and villages thrive without electricity or running water. And yet children play joyfully with handmade toys from nature. In Fiji, they experienced ground ovens and communal living. In Utila, simple schools where books sparked imagination.

These destinations weren’t just vacations—they were lessons in humility, showing how happiness blooms in simplicity, how diverse customs, governments, and spiritual paths all revolve around the ocean’s vital role. I wanted my kids to understand their impact from across the sea. As we cut back on plastic and pollution, eat sustainably, and create less waste. To see that we all share the same needs—homes, clean water, food—and the same desire to connect, regardless of culture, religion, or background.

A very large family reunion

Kids Sea Camp is different because it’s born from this personal passion—in a world of cookie-cutter vacations, we stand apart by curating experiences that prioritize unity over division. On our trips, it doesn’t matter what you do for a living, where you’re from—we come together to dive, to cherish the ocean, and to have fun with our kids and grandchildren. For a magical week, we find common ground in our shared love for adventure and family. It’s a reunion of family you never knew you were waiting to meet, where strangers become lifelong friends, and the ocean becomes the great equalizer.

What sets us apart even more is our commitment to safety, education, and heart. We’ve been training with PADI courses and kids programs for 25 years. Customizing our kids’ programs like SASY and Seal Team, turning learning into play, and other games that build confidence without pressure. For older kids, PADI Jr. Open Water, PADI Advanced Open Water, and specialties like PADI Fish ID, Underwater Photography, Coral Restoration, Wreck Diver, Night Diver, Rescue, and Peak Performance Buoyancy open doors to deeper exploration. These aren’t just certifications—they’re pathways to becoming ocean ambassadors who teach kids (and adults) about marine ecosystems, shark conservation, and sustainable practices.

Hand-picked resorts

We’ve certified over 8,100 youth divers, with thousands more pursuing continuing education alongside their parents and grandparents. Our handpicked destinations—Bonaire’s calm shores, St. Lucia’s vibrant reefs, Belize’s biodiverse waters, and liveaboards to the Galapagos, Raja Ampat, or the Red Sea. All are chosen for their family-focused environments, where safety is paramount, and every dive feels like a shared discovery. (See our Calendar of events)

At the core of Kids Sea Camp beats a team with hearts as vast as the ocean. Our instructors—passionate experts are more than teachers; they’re mentors who adapt to every child’s needs with kindness and fun. (See our dive team)

Turning 60

Now, at 60, Tom and I are embracing grandparenthood with Zayne (who is not even a year old yet). I realize time is our most precious gift. I’m already dreaming of his first dive, showing him coral reefs I pray will thrive. The years with Robbie and Jen flew by, but those summers diving together—unplugging, laughing, exploring—created memories that sustain us. Robbie’s upcoming wedding to a fellow diver from Nairobi, Kenya. And Jen’s life with her husband from a small town reminds me how these experiences opened their hearts to the world.

Kids Sea Camp is the big unplugged

Kids Sea Camp is the best choice because it’s designed to give you those irreplaceable moments. In a fast-paced world, Kids Sea Camp quiets the noise. We are allowing peace to settle as families learn to be dive buddies—not just in the water, but in life. Kids put down their phones, present in the moment, while parents rekindle laughter and friendship. It’s where grandparents witness wide-eyed wonder, siblings forge unbreakable ties, and everyone emerges wiser, more connected.

If you’re a parent or grandparent yearning to share the best of the world with your loved ones, join us. Let’s create a sustainable future together—one dive, one family, one memory at a time.

I like to remind people that children are 20% of our population; they are 100% of our future. And in that future, let’s focus on what unites us: love for each other and our big blue ocean.

Margo Peyton, Founder, Kids Sea Camp Inc. (see link)

Decades of diving with Kids Sea Camp

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Kids Sea Camp, Scuba and kids

REFLECTIONS ON KIDS SEA CAMP’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY

When you’re invited to an anniversary celebration, you expect memories to be shared, jokes to be cracked, and glasses to be raised. I wasn’t prepared, however, for just how nostalgic I would become. Or for how much I’d want to reminisce with anyone. Anyone who would listen about the years that became decades spent on the Kids Sea Camp journey.

Buddies with Buddy Dive

Since we were also celebrating the partnership with Buddy Dive Resort in Bonaire, I found myself retelling the story of the delightful and decisive dinner we had with owner and patriarch Martien van der Valk 20 years earlier. It was there that Margo shared her vision, and he embraced it wholeheartedly (good wine was involved). The concept of a Kids Sea Camp centers on diving experiences for the whole family. The idea was far from a “no-brainer” at the time. It wasn’t long before women found their place in diving, let alone children! And as much as everyone talked about growing the sport of scuba diving, adding women and children to the plan was a big leap of faith for most. (See KSC calendar of events)

It wasn’t until the 1980s that we moved from NAVY Dive table calculations to dive computers, from “horse collar” BCs to BCDs, and from basic black to colored dive equipment and wetsuits. Underwater cameras were large, and strobe lights were larger. And you had 36 opportunities to get the shot with one roll of Kodak film. Dive operations were just beginning to partner with resorts to offer dive travel opportunities with more creature comforts than divers were accustomed to locally. This transformative time for diving was accomplished primarily face-to-face, on landlines, and with 800 numbers (online searches and bookings, social media, WhatsApp, and Zoom were Many years away). (See KSC gallery)

Martien van der Valk sees the vision

But forward-thinking entrepreneurs like Martien and his family understood the vision. It helped that we all had young children of our own. We were in the dive travel industry and wanted to share what we loved with them. Were there other parents who wanted to continue diving and traveling but didn’t want to leave their kids behind? Would they be interested in “giving them a week they would remember forever”? Well, it turns out, yes, there were, and yes, they would!

PADI also saw the potential and began offering more and more age-appropriate kids’ dive courses and certifications that focused on safety, learning, and fun. The kids were our real-life, real-time market research. So, on the very first Kids Sea Camp dinner, when they formed their own kids’ table, when they sprang out of bed early every morning, when they kept in touch with their new friends, and when they told their parents where they wanted to meet up the following summer, Margo knew she was on to something!

Time in the bottle

Inspired by the old Jim Croce song about saving time in a bottle, I titled one of my early articles accordingly. I knew the moments were precious. I knew that the days were long, but the years would fly by. And my six-year-old daughter somehow became a 32-year-old mother of three today. I honestly cannot wait until they, too, will enjoy these foundational experiences that will become an integral part of who they are.

It’s not just the underwater adventures that open their little minds up to a whole new world. It’s getting out of their neighborhood bubbles and meeting families from different worlds who share a global humanity. Their love for our water planet that they may not find among their friends at home. I am blown away by the stories of how Kids Sea Camp has become a life-changing experience for other kids.

From 7 kids the first year to over 8,100 kids certified by the 25th year. You can only imagine the ripple effects felt in every corner of the world. Over 50 of these kids have become PADI divemasters, 30 dive instructors, and counting. These KSC alumni will be training the next generation of divers for decades to come. Margo has also been a consistent mentoring presence in too many young lives to mention. I am particularly inspired by the number of young adults she engages in various roles over dozens of weeks each year, as interns, instructors, and contributors in their particular areas of expertise.

Tom sees the larger picture

Each one has carved out a special place in the Kids Sea Camp Family, which also features VP and founder of Ocean Wishes, a 501(c)(3), and husband Tom Peyton. Tom never lets us lose sight of the big picture in every little moment. Especially when leading karaoke nights or afternoon volleyball challenges. Son Robbie has risen through the KSC ranks to become a PADI OWSI, MSDT instructor, and technical diver. He’s been involved in sales and training at KSC for years. But to me, he’ll always be Young Robbie. Showing his friends how you can be just as fun-loving and safe playing underwater as you are on land.

I so enjoyed this special week, when Martien’s granddaughter Noortje pursued advanced certification, and Granddaughter Pleun began her PADI Jr. Open Water course. There were 100 attendees enjoying their 1st, 10th, or 20th Kids Sea Camp adventure during one of two back-to-back weeks. I was particularly taken with a 10-year-old girl named Athena. She was so very enthusiastic about getting her PADI Jr. Open Water certification during her very first Kids Sea Camp. A mother/daughter trip that I knew would be a special “time in a bottle” moment for her diving/journalist mom, Holly. So here I was, a Gramma, with over 40 years of diving under my belt. I was bonding with a pearl of a girl—the whole world her oyster.  I couldn’t help but wonder what she might have to say about Kids Sea Camp on their 50th Anniversary!

By Carolyn Pascal

Visit kidsseacamp.com for more information or click on the link to Athena’s beautiful story, “Becoming a diver.”

The connections beyond our immediate family.

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Family diving, Kids Sea Camp, kids and scuba

The connections we have all forged extend far beyond our immediate family.

When I booked my first family vacation to Roatan with Kids Sea Camp over 20 years ago, I had no idea that it would become the cornerstone of our most cherished memories. Before becoming a parent, I had spent many years working in the dive industry. However, after having children, I found it increasingly challenging to continue diving and traveling. I wasn’t sure if I would ever pursue my passion for diving again. But when I discovered Kids Sea Camp, everything changed. What began as a simple desire to introduce my children to the wonders of the ocean quickly evolved into a series of adventures that would shape who we are, both as individuals and as family connections. 

Around the world with Kids Sea Camp

Over the years, Kids Sea Camp has taken us to some of the most breathtaking corners of the world, from the vibrant coral reefs of the Caribbean to the remote islands of the Pacific, such as the Cayman Islands, Utila, Bonaire, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Yap, Palau, and Fiji. But more than the places we’ve visited, it’s the bonds we’ve forged, the lessons we’ve learned, and the growth I’ve witnessed in my children that stand out most vividly.

Our journey with Kids Sea Camp began in the turquoise waters of Roatan. It was there, surrounded by the vibrant coral reefs and the gentle rhythm of the Caribbean Sea, that my family first dipped our toes into what would become a lifelong love for the ocean. The trip was filled with excitement and curiosity as my children experienced the underwater world for the first time. 

The first KSC trip

That first trip also marked a personal milestone for me. Having once been an avid diver, life’s demands had caused me to set my passion aside. But Kids Sea Camp reignited that spark, allowing me to resume diving and, more importantly, to introduce my children to the underwater world that had captivated me for so long. It was also on this trip that we met the Barrett family, who quickly became like family to us. Our children together coined us the “Severetts,” a blend of our last names, marking the start of many shared adventures and a deep, enduring friendship.

As our journeys with Kids Sea Camp continued, it became clear that these trips were about far more than just exploring new destinations. They were about deepening the bonds within my family and with the new friends we made along the way. 

Deepening the family bonds

Each adventure brought us closer together, as we learned to rely on one another, share in the joys of discovery, and create memories that would last a lifetime. Our annual trips with the Barrett family, both underwater and on ski slopes, became a cherished tradition that enriched our lives and deepened our friendship. Over two decades of traveling with Kids Sea Camp, one of the greatest joys was witnessing my children’s remarkable growth.

It took several years and many Kids Sea Camp adventures, but when each of my children turned 10 and earned their certification, we officially became a family of divers. From their first tentative steps in the ocean to becoming confident, accomplished divers, each trip marked a new chapter in their development. My oldest child was certified as a diver in the stunning waters of Fiji at the tender age of 10—a milestone made possible by the nurturing environment at Kids Sea Camp. 

Our kids and dive training

The experience and care shown by Margo and her team ensured a safe and inspiring certification process, one that I trusted completely despite the young age. Similarly, my twins embarked on their own diving journey, achieving their certifications in the rich, diverse waters of Palau when they were just 10 years old. Their prior experience with the program’s Sassy and Seal courses gave them not only the necessary skills but also the confidence to dive into deeper adventures. These early certifications were not merely about learning to dive; they were about building a foundation of confidence, responsibility, and environmental stewardship that they would carry with them for years to come.

Family that dive together, kids sea camp, Margo PeytonThe experience of diving with my children has been nothing short of magical. Witnessing their transformation from novices to skilled divers who often outperform adults has been a profound joy. The exceptional training they received not only made them competent but also confident and respected divers, accustomed to the intricacies and responsibilities of exploring marine environments. Their prowess underwater is a testament to the high-caliber training provided by Kids Sea Camp, where safety and respect for the ocean are paramount. 

My son Max’s journey to becoming a Dive Master through KSC is a testament to the profound influence these experiences had on him. He started as a young child with wide eyes and a bubbling curiosity about the marine world. He embraced every opportunity to learn and explore. His progression from participant to leader was not just about acquiring diving skills, but also about developing responsibility, resilience, and a deep respect for the ocean. 

Underwater talents

Similarly, my daughters, Quin and Sydney, found their own paths through these adventures. Whether it was learning underwater photography, participating in marine conservation projects, or overcoming fears of sharks, they both carved out a niche that reflected their unique passions and talents. 

 An equally important aspect of their growth was the formation of meaningful relationships with children from around the world. These relationships have endured over the years, long after these trips have ended. This global network of friends has enriched their lives, offering diverse perspectives and ongoing connections spanning continents.  

Cherished friendship

The connections we have all forged extend far beyond our immediate family. Tom and Margo have become dear and cherished friends, and relationships with other KSC families have grown deeper with each trip. We were part of a larger community, connected by our love for the ocean and our meaningful memories with our children. They make it feel like you’re not just a group of travelers – you’re part of their family.  

Diving alongside my kiddos, watching them grow to navigate the waters with grace and experience, fills me with pride and amazement. These moments underwater are not just dives; they are treasured experiences, shared breaths of life that deepen our bond with each other and our connection to the underwater world. 

Family Connections

One of the most cherished outcomes of our two decades with Kids Sea Camp has been the deep and enduring friendships we’ve formed, particularly with the Barrett family. Our family connections went beyond shared dives and travel adventures; they extended into our daily lives, with long drives to spend holidays together and countless celebrations that have cemented our bond over the years. The synchronicity of having children the same age, including twins who were only a year apart, created a unique and profound connection. Our children grew up together, sharing not just vacations but life milestones. The Barrett family became more than friends; they became an integral part of our extended family. This kinship provided a support system built on mutual understanding and shared experiences, enhancing the joy and helping us overcome the challenges of raising our children.

Reflecting on two decades of adventures with Kids Sea Camp, it’s clear that these experiences have been far more than just holidays; they’ve been life-shaping adventures that have brought my family closer, broadened our horizons, and deepened our respect for the ocean and our planet. Even now, with my children in their 20s, they still eagerly ask if we can plan another Kids Sea Camp trip. This enduring enthusiasm is a testament to the lasting impact of these experiences.

Empty Nesters

As many of us long-time Kids Sea Campers are now Empty Nesters, we’ve seen our children grow up, and it’s been another incredible part of life, embarking on the new opportunities offered by Family Dive Adventures and their empty-nester group trips. Personally, having embarked on over 30 trips with Tom and Margo, I have found these adventures to be a significant part of my life. They not only keep me diving but also allow me to reconnect with many familiar faces, explore stunning new destinations, and continue diving with my adult kids.

The Galapagos

Galapagos, Liveaboard, Empty nesters TravelersThis summer, Max and I went on a mother-son trip to the Galapagos with Family Dive Adventures, a Kids Sea Camp extension for grown families. At 25, Max joined me for one of our first adult-focused adventures, diving in the open ocean where hammerhead sharks circled, whale sharks glided, and humpback whales breached nearby. The Galapagos’ wild currents demanded advanced skills, but we were true buddies. Max looked after me, checking my gear with care, but his awe was palpable. “Mom, you’re an incredible diver,” he said, watching me navigate a drift dive with ease. “You’re the best dive partner.” That moment—swimming side by side, marveling at a school of sharks—cemented a new bond. For Max, the advanced diving was inspiring, sparking excitement for more adventures with me. “I can’t wait to dive with you again,” he said, his eyes bright with possibility.

Moving forward, I plan to continue diving with them. Each trip offers a chance to rekindle old friendships and create new memories in the world’s most beautiful underwater environments. I have enjoyed empty-nest trips with Margo and Tom to Africa and the Philippines, and I am looking forward to Borneo and beyond.

Whether by myself or with my family, the call of the ocean is irresistible. The camaraderie of Kids Sea Camp and Family Dive Adventures is irreplaceable. 

Janet Severo is a lifelong diver and mother of three, whose family has explored the world’s oceans with Kids Sea Camp for over 20 years. Learn more at familydivers.k-dushi.com/.

25 Years of Kids Sea Camp: An Ocean of Gratitude

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Kids Scuba, Family Scuba Diving Adventures, Kids Sea Camp, Margo Peyton, empty nester travelers

25 years of business success didn’t happen overnight.

From the shores of Provincetown, where the salty air mingled with dreams of far-off oceans, a young Margo Peyton grew, her heart tethered to the sea. Raised by a fisherman father and surrounded by the wonders of whales, dolphins, turtles, and sharks, she knew her path was destined to explore the watery realms that connected the world.

College led to travel and tourism, a scuba certification (a gift from her diving father), and a life-changing stint as a travel agent in the Cayman Islands. But it was motherhood that sparked a new vision. When her children, Jen and Robbie, asked to join her underwater adventures, Margo discovered a void: family-friendly dive resorts were scarce. A seed of an idea began to sprout. Didn’t the dive industry need to nurture the next generation of ocean lovers?

A Chance Encounter

A chance encounter with Carolyn Pascal, then publisher of Skin Diver Magazine, ignited the spark. Sharing their frustration about leaving their children behind on dive trips, they hatched a plan. Carolyn became Kids Sea Camp’s first champion, writing about Margo’s vision to unite families through diving.

The journey began with Sandy and Hans Ullrich of Ocean Encounters in Curaçao, who shared Margo’s passion for connecting children with the ocean. Together, they created the very first Kids Sea Camp. Then Hans passed the torch to Nolo Ambrosi. Nolo and Monica embraced the vision, ensuring the annual event continued.

Meeting Nancy Easterbrook

At a DEMA trade show, Margo met Nancy Easterbrook, a scuba-diving mom with two children. Nancy’s desire to be part of Kids Sea Camp resonated deeply with Margo, especially as it meant bringing the program to Grand Cayman, the birthplace of her son Robbie.  With continued family ties 25 years later, Jason and Sue Belport opened their hearts and doors of the Cayman Islands with family weeks at Little Cayman Beach Resort and Cayman Brac Beach Resort. Football, basketball, volleyball, and diving are family affairs and a permanent home.

Neal Watson, “The Dive God,” became a mentor, guiding Margo through the world of dive travel and introducing her to key players at trade shows like ScubaEx, Our World Underwater, Beneath the Sea, DEMA, Scuba Show, and his own Lauderdale by the Sea event. Neal championed Margo’s cause, urging the industry to support her mission.

The importance of SCUBAPRO

Werner Kurn of SCUBAPRO recognized the need for growth in the diving industry and championed Margo with kid-sized dive gear by SCUBAPRO, who began producing smaller BCDs, tanks, mouthpieces, and wetsuits, equipping Kids Sea Campers for underwater exploration. Bjorn and Sven Harms of SeaLife provided Margo with cameras to capture the magic of these family adventures.  Fraser Purdon became integral to product growth, working with Margo to partner with SCUBAPRO and Sealife, driven by his own motivation. Wife Tracy and daughter Sophie became beautiful parts of the process.

After Ron Kip’s birthday celebration (owner of Bob-Sotos Diving) in the Cayman Islands, Werner and Neal introduced Margo to John Cronin. Cronin’s words of encouragement that her vision was ahead of its time became a guiding light.

Drew Richardson

After John’s passing, Drew Richardson and the team at PADI—Theresa Kaplan, Kristin Valette, Nick Jenny, and Bob Coleman—became pillars of support, helping Margo expand the Kids Sea Camp brand with PADI 5-star resorts around the globe. Margo became a PADI instructor, and partnerships with families like Martine and Ingrid Van der Valk and their children, Michelle, Barb, and Steffie, broadened the Kids Sea Camp family in Bonaire, with Buddy Dive, The Galapagos, and Dominica. Sam from Sam’s Tours in Palau, and Dermot helped Margo bring Kids Sea Camp across the Pacific and created Palau Kids Sea Camp, a 15-year legacy.

Tom Peyton changes Kids Sea Camp

Then came Tom Peyton, who won Margo’s heart and embraced her children. Tom brought music, sports, and boundless love to Kids Sea Camp. Together, they explored new horizons as a family. They added destinations like the Galapagos, Utila, Costa Rica, Yap, Wakatobi, St. Vincent, the Bahamas, and Belize. Tom connected with Luigi from Italy at a Canadian adventure show. This meeting led to an extraordinary brotherhood, friendship, and partnership. Luigi, Mei, and The Arenui, a ship straight out of a dream. Biggs Eggert joined the family, bringing the magic and heart of the Philippines. Karolin Troubetzkoy, recognizing the value of family experiences as a mother and grandmother. She welcomed Margo to bring Kids Sea Camp to the luxurious Anse Chastanet in St. Lucia.

As Margo and Tom’s children grew, so did Kids Sea Camp. Tom left his 25-year career as a newspaper editor to join Kids Sea Camp full-time. New adventures unfolded in Roatan and a lifetime in Fiji, starting with Tom and Margo’s honeymoon. We met, built strong bonds and relationships with Danny Charlton’s family, and with Murex Divers of Lembeh, Manado, and Bangka. Chris Heim with Pura Vida and Sea Explorers of the Philippines.

Welcome to the KSC tribe

Kids Sea Camp became more than a business; it’s a family tribe. Clients became friends, and some became like family. Children who attended camp years ago are now adults, some even grandparents. Kids Sea Camp life’s circle comes full circle, even 25 years later.

There are many to thank and be thankful for, countless individuals. It’s a story of passion, perseverance, and the unifying power of the ocean. It’s a story of gratitude for the incredible people who have made this 25-year journey possible. Oceans connect us all; the Kids Sea Camp family is a testament to that beautiful truth. We continue on this 25th year. We are full of gratitude for all those who have been a part of the journey. Such as Lucy Dunbar, Kiley, Sven, Peter, Tabitha, Nadene, LindaSue, David Benz, Tarkan, Holly, Conrad, Annie, Rogest, Steven Frink, and William Clien.

Our crew — our family

25 years of partnerships have blossomed with leaders of the past embracing the excitement and youth needed in the present. Peter Hughes, Troy Bodden, Bonnie Toth, Maria Hult, Joanne and Zig, Rick Stratton, Brad Nolan, Brett Gilliam, Michele Westmorland, and Tanya Burnett all lent their voices. Cristina Zenato, Woody Tinsley, and Brad Holland became a part of our fabric. 25 years of created memories they will remember for a lifetime.

Kids Sea Camp magic: It’s not the destination; it’s the journey. Well, maybe not so much!

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Kids Scuba, Family Scuba Diving Adventures, Kids Sea Camp, Margo Peyton, Canada divers

Kids Sea Camp Magic is real, thank God!

So you don’t believe in magic? Now sit right down, and you will hear a tale, a tale of a fateful trip. Okay, this is not about seven castaways and their misadventures but about our family of four: Rod, Carol, our son Will (14), our daughter Lily (10), and our trip to the other side of the planet to go scuba diving with Kids Sea Camp on one of many trips.

I celebrated my 50th birthday that year, and we wanted to celebrate with something big. Carol and I had learned about Kids Sea Camp, owned and operated by Margo Peyton from South Carolina, from a Scuba Diving Magazine story. We read that parents and their kids could scuba dive together as a family, something we had dreamt about since the kids were born.

Our first trip started with an incredible Kids Sea Camp trip to Belize, and both kids made lifelong friends, as did Carol and me. The MacDonald family then chose Bonaire and Costa Rica. Every trip had Kids Sea Camp magic. We found like-minded families who became lifelong friends, our kids learned about the ocean and made connections with other kids worldwide, and we bonded as a family.

Every detail was taken care of, as Margo and Tom or their magic dive team members traveled with us. There were many unforgettable moments like horseback riding, blow-karting, special presenters, and incredible slide shows that captured it all.

Here’s the magic story

Margo gave us her cell phone number. It’s nothing special; she does that with every client. She even puts it in the trip welcome letter. Why is that so important? Well, let me tell you this story of magic!

I called Margo on a Sunday afternoon; yes, she did pick up the phone and happily discussed trip options. Lily, our youngest, wanted to get PADI certified. As we were mulling ideas, Margo reminded me of the offer that she had made the year before. “Rod,” she said, “remember last year when Will hurt his foot on the beach running in the sand and missed a few days of diving?”

“Yes,” I replied. “Well,” she said, “remember I promised to comp him for next year’s diving, should you come back.” I had forgotten this gesture until Margo was kind enough to remind me.

Thankfully, a few doctors were on that trip, and Will dove for a couple of days with one fin. Margo towed him around and became his buddy; she was so impressed by his tenacity in keeping up with the diving that she promised to cover the cost of diving on his next trip. She was good to her word!

“Why don’t you come with us to Yap and Palau? His diving is on me for both weeks.”

The magic of Micronesia, here we come!

Well, that cinched it. It was the trip of a lifetime for my 50th birthday. Lily gets certified in paradise, and Will dives for free.

There was only one moment of sober second thought afterward, which was when we looked at our travel itinerary. Toronto to Los Angeles to Honolulu to Guam to Yap, then to Palau, then back. Oh well, what could go wrong, right? You only ever ask that question if you purchase trip insurance, which, by the way, Margo repeatedly asks everyone to do. “Remember that point.”

Four months later, after much anticipation, the big day of our departure was here. We couldn’t wait!

It was the night before our departure. Our tickets had long since been purchased. We had just spent the last several days winding down our business. Our bags were packed, and like all scuba divers, we had meticulously weighed each, ensuring they were under 50 pounds. Luggage magic is real, also.

We had taken our kids out of school a week before the summer break, as both insisted that nothing happens in the last week anyway. Okay, let’s go with that.

What day is it?

It was 10:00 P.M. on Thursday, before our 9:15 A.M. departure the following day. Carol and I were sitting on our bed amongst the luggage, reviewing last-minute details. “You got the passports?” I asked Carol.

“Yes,” she replied.

I went downstairs to grab the file marked “Kids Sea Camp,” which held all the paperwork and details that Margo’s team had provided us months ago. There’s a lot, and not a question is unanswered if you take the time to read it all. (That’s right, there is another point! Take the time to read it all.) I decided to give the tickets a quick perusal, but something seemed a bit puzzling.

“Carol,” I said, “wait for it. What day is it today?”

“It’s the 20th,” she answers calmly.

“No, it’s not,” I nervously reply. “It’s the 19th, right, isn’t it?”

“No, I’m sure it’s the 20th. It’s my brother’s birthday tomorrow,” she replied, still calm.

Panic versus Kids Sea Camp magic

At that moment, I think, “Houston, we have a problem.” How could I have made such an enormous mistake? As I hope many of you can relate, I’m hoping for some sympathy here. In our oh-so-busy lives, where we run around constantly trying to achieve “work-life balance,” I somehow locked in my mind that we were leaving Friday morning, not Thursday. I was so positive that there was no need to double-check this vital detail.

Everything around me slowed to a crawl; if that makes sense, my mind started to speed up. I had already deduced in seconds that we were totally and utterly screwed, but things were still moving slowly around me. We were flying to the other side of the planet, with no fewer than four connections, to a country called Yap, which has only two flights arriving each week.

Someone asked me afterward how it felt at that precise moment. The best way I can describe it is: you show up for your wedding at 11:00 A.M. on Sunday in your tuxedo. You walk into the church, and you ask the janitor, “Where is everyone?” With an incredulous look, the janitor smiles and replies, “Don’t you know your wedding was yesterday, son?”

Welcome to the Twilight Zone

It’s a total “Twilight Zone” moment, where that spinning vortex thingy makes you dizzy. I instantly break into a sweat, feel totally sick to my stomach, and say, “Carol, I don’t think we are going on our trip.”

Carol looks at me and says, “What?”

“Carol, our plane to LA left twelve hours ago! We cannot be in LA tomorrow morning at 8:45 A.M. when our flight leaves for Honolulu with Margo and the other Kids Sea Campers.”

Carol looks at me and replies loudly, “OH … WE’RE GOING ALRIGHT!”

Now, I am one of the most fortunate guys I know because, at that very moment, Carol could have, oh, I don’t know, had an absolute crazy fit, but no, she just knew that somehow, the MacDonald family was going to make it to our much-anticipated destination. Not to break her optimistic spirit, I decided the best course of action was to go along with this delusion to delay any possible inevitable but justified release of tension that would most certainly come my way.

So — S.O.L.

The next thing I know, I am sitting in front of my computer on Expedia, Travelocity, or “I don’t know,” as I can’t remember much about that moment. But I can now tell you from experience that if you book with a third-party vendor and something like this happens, you are S.O.L.

So I’m looking at a new possible travel destination (the Moon), knowing I have just about as much chance of getting there as I do of getting to Yap. I tried calling Air Canada to purchase new flights, at that point, a minimum of $8,000 per person and two-plus days of travel one way. No sympathy from any airline, and all told me to contact the third-party vendor from whom I purchased. My heart is not in it. Carol is sitting beside me, as is our son, who now knows about the dilemma.

His first comment is, “Does this mean I must go to school tomorrow?”

“No, William, you don’t have to go to school tomorrow,” I replied. Then I started thinking that our whole family would be hiding out in the house for the next two weeks, with the curtains drawn, so no one would ever find out about my massive blunder. Of course, this also means we’ll have to Photoshop each of our faces onto images we downloaded from the internet of Yap and Palau’s magic sunsets.

Margo saves the trip

The phone rings. I pick up my cell, and it’s Margo Peyton from Kids Sea Camp. It is just before midnight.

“Hi Rod,” says Margo, “How are you guys doing?”

I had left a message on her voicemail around 11:00 P.M. to let her know what happened and to ask her not to look for the MacDonald’s in Los Angeles the following morning, where we were supposed to meet them. “Oh, we’ve had better moments,” I cheerily replied.

Well, without skipping a beat, Margo says the following. “Rod, this is what you are going to do. Since you left me a message, I have been on the phone with my air travel consolidator, Lennie. She is in Guam.

“Guam?” I reply.

With all the confidence of an NFL quarterback, she replies, “Yes, Guam. That’s why I answered the phone.” Are you ready to write this down?”

As I jotted down our new, unbelievable travel plans, I wondered, Who is this person on the other end of the phone? I knew Margo ran this great little company with a loyal following of families, some of whom had traveled with her for 14+ years. She has thousands of youth diver certifications in the Scuba Diving Hall of Fame. But I didn’t know she was also a magical tactical travel guru. It was as if she had a mobile travel console and could reroute planes to ensure her clients didn’t miss their Kids Sea Camp destiny. (Margo had worked as an airline reservations agent for 15 years, and it showed!)

The new itinerary she booked was as follows: we would now fly from Toronto to Denver, then to Japan, then to Guam (where we would meet up with Margo and our fellow campers), and then on to Yap. Margo had already arranged with her Guam contact to change all our other flights with United—at no extra charge or penalty. No extra charge. Why hadn’t I thought of that? Before calling me at midnight, Margo had already entirely rerouted us from another city the next day at no charge. If that isn’t a reason to book with a travel agent rather than directly or through a third-party app, I don’t know what is.

Real Kids Sea Camp Magic

We found ourselves at Toronto International Airport the following day, having not slept a wink. We arrived two hours and 45 minutes before our flight. Not so fast! Remember, they say you must be at the airport three hours before departure. The gate staff sternly informed us that the door would have been closed if we’d arrived 15 seconds later. And as we all know, once that door is closed, it’s closed! I did not tell Margo.

We were sitting on the plane, completely exhausted, and the trip hadn’t started yet. Carol said, “Do you think our luggage will make it?”

At that point, I’d inflicted enough stress on my wife, so I answered, “Yes, I’m sure it will be fine.”

Carol wasn’t buying it, but she just closed her eyes, as did I. Our travel from Toronto to Denver to Japan was uneventful, and we even got to fly on a brand-new Dreamliner. This was a great experience, as the kids watched unlimited movies, allowing Carol and me to grab some rest and much-needed sleep.

We arrived safely in the land of the rising sun and got the unexpected bonus of a “Japan” stamp in our passports—bonus! While waiting for our flight to Guam, I texted Margo to let her know the MacDonald’s had made it this far. I figured Margo’s awareness might be helpful if there were any issues with our tight connection in Guam. She responded, “Make sure when you arrive in Guam, to go through the transit line—you have a tight connection.” Remember that little detail.

Magic Margo Meets Us in Guam

We arrived in Guam and immediately faced another long line at customs. Again, we looked at our watches every 15 seconds, as if that could bend time. It couldn’t. Margo called multiple times, wondering where we were. We missed the transit line! Margo called security and had us escorted through. We were again auditioning for a Hertz commercial, running through the airport.

Tom Peyton was already on the plane with the group; the flight attendants were trying to close the door. It was almost too late. Margo refused to board and told Tom to go ahead; she’d meet him later in Palau. Tom wouldn’t hear of it. He pleaded with the crew to keep the door open.

We ran down the corridor until we saw Margo. We slowed down to catch our breath. “NO!” she yelled. “Keep running! They’re closing the door!” We took another breath and ran. I couldn’t believe we might make it. We reached the door, and guess who was holding it open? Tom, waiting for his wife Margo—that’s right, Magic Margo.

We all made it. Tom hugged his wife, and we thanked him for waiting and holding the plane. Tom said, with endearing sarcasm, “I wasn’t holding it for you; I wasn’t letting this flight leave without my wife!”

Mission Impossible becomes magic

As we boarded, applause broke out, and off we went. We didn’t know any other Kids Sea Camp families on the flight. However, as we hurried to our seats, we could tell who they were because they gave us high-fives and hugs. Margo, of course, had told everyone about the Canadian family who, against all odds, had done the impossible and “won their own amazing race.” She’d asked them all to beg the crew to hold the flight.

Based on our next two weeks in Yap and Palau with Kids Sea Camp, Margo and her team, the MacDonald family, won the million-dollar prize. When we were diving with the celestial manta rays and then touring the Rock Islands, we realized just how close we’d come to missing the trip of a lifetime.

Somehow, it was even more amazing, more humbling, and, dare I say, a bit sweeter. The lesson here is that Margo answers her phone. She’s a real person who cares not only about what happens at Kids Sea Camps but also about getting to and from them. She works hard to make sure everyone is treated like family.

There are many ways to book trips and save a dime or even a dollar. But none of them will have your back when something goes wrong. A storm shows up. A flight is canceled. Or, like me, you just forget what day you’re leaving. Third-party online booking systems don’t assist beyond the sale. But Margo, Tom, and the Kids Sea Camp team travel with you.

So they’re personally invested in the best possible outcomes. The best way to say thank you is to book directly with Kids Sea Camp. This small business makes dreams a reality for many families and thousands of kids, and the MacDonald family will support it.

From the MacDonald family—Carol, William, Lily, and me—we’d like to thank Margo and Tom (Margo’s husband), from the bottom of our hearts.

P.S.: Kids Sea Camp company has never had a diving accident in 26 years of running Kids Sea Camps. It has the best safety rating for children and diving in the dive industry, with over 8,100 youth diving certifications. That’s not a one-person job. The people they choose to partner with are some of the best in the world for family-friendly instructors and resorts. And by the way, in case you were wondering, our luggage made it too—dive gear and all. Kids’ Sea Camp magic is real!

Family Dive Vacations with Kids Sea Camp is Always Our First Choice

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Kids Sea Camp, Family Dive Adventure, kids and diving, families that love diving

I ain’t going diving

When I first started dating my husband Mark, I remember one of our first dates, picking him up from Shaw’s Cove in Laguna Beach. The waves crashed against the shore as I waited for Mark to emerge from the inky blackness of the Pacific. He was night diving, one of his many “gear-intensive” hobbies that initially intimidated me. Snowboarding, mountain biking, scuba diving—activities that seemed a world away from my own. Watching his figure rise from the depths, I remember thinking, “I will never do that.”

Kids Scuba, Family Scuba Diving Adventures, Kids Sea Camp, Margo PeytonBut never say never! Thirteen years and hundreds of dives later, we were seasoned divers exploring underwater worlds from Fiji to the Galapagos. With his passion for underwater photography, Mark had even traveled to the Bahamas to participate in shark photography expeditions, capturing incredible images of tiger sharks, hammerheads, and even the gentle giants of the sea—whale sharks.

“Give them a week; they will remember forever

In 2016, amidst the dazzling displays of dive gear and exotic destinations at the Long Beach Scuba Show, one booth stopped us. A banner proclaimed, “Give them a week; they will remember forever,” and we knew we had to find out more. It was Kids Sea Camp, and it promised family dive vacations that combined underwater exploration with cultural experiences and adventure activities. Our kids, Lucas and Lucy, were 12 and 6 then. We’d always leave them with family when we traveled, but sharing our love of diving sparked an irresistible excitement. (See the KSC gallery)

Our first Kids Sea Camp adventure took us to Buddy Dive on the beautiful island of Bonaire in 2017. The island welcomed us with water that was so clear and blue that it felt like swimming in a dream. Lucas, all of 13, enrolled in the Kids Sea Camp PADI Jr. Open Water program with other kids his age. This Junior Open Water Certification allows kids aged 10-14 to dive to 40 feet with a PADI pro or a certified parent. Seven-year-old Lucy joined the SASY program, designed for kids aged 4-7 to master snorkeling on the surface and learn about the ocean with other kids.

KSC is perfection in Bonaire

The Kids Sea Camp format was perfect. Each morning, we’d drop the kids off at their 8:00 A.M. scuba class with other kids their age, then hop on an adult-only boat for a day of diving with like-minded parents. The kids, meanwhile, were busy with all sorts of activities—blow-karting, jungle biking, kayaking, and of course, learning the fundamentals of scuba diving. In the afternoons, we’d reunite as a family, often ending the day with drinks on the beach, watching a horde of kids diving and splashing in the crystal blue water. There was something magical about seeing them put down their iPads and phones, engage with other kids, and genuinely appreciate paradise.

Bonaire ​i​s not just about diving. We visited the Donkey Sanctuary. The sanctuary cares for over 700 rescued donkeys, including a nursery. Kids Sea Camps’ visits help keep the facility open and provide food, water, and medical care to the island’s population. The kids are loaded into trucks and armed with bread and carrots to feed the curious donkeys. Nothing is funnier than watching one of your kids get a full face lick by a donkey, or better yet, lose a flip-flop to an over-ambitious creature.  We ​also enjoyed sailing on a sunset cruise aboard an authentic pirate ship, with rum punches in our hands​ and plenty of jumping off the plank upon our return.

Welcome to Roatan

We also ventured to Kids Sea Camp Roatan, Honduras. We enjoyed another incredible week of diving, zip-lining through the jungle, and visiting Gumbalimba Park. In this privately owned eco-adventure park, we interacted with iguanas, macaws, and white-faced monkeys. Lucas did his first night dive and even got to dive with reef sharks, all with private instructors and experienced kid-friendly staff. Lucy, at 8, transitioned to the PADI SEAL program, the next step to becoming a junior open water diver, which prepares kids with basic skills and buoyancy through fun Aqua missions. The kids even received free SCUBAPRO dive gear, including BCD, fins, masks, and snorkels!

We loved the safety, quality, and ease of traveling with Kids Sea Camp so much that we also took our family to Grand Cayman. One of the highlights was Stingray City, a nature preserve in 10 feet of shallow, clear water where we swam with stingrays. Grand Cayman is also home to a turtle sanctuary with over 2,000 turtles. Lucy got to interact with baby turtles in a shallow pool.

Back to Bonaire

In June, we returned to beautiful Bonaire. This time, we were able to dive together as a family—a long-awaited dream come true! Lucas joined the PADI Advanced Open Water program with other teenagers. He completed a night, Peak Performance Buoyancy, boat, photo, and shore dive to earn his PADI certification. Lucy finally became a PADI Junior open-water diver earlier in the week, so we had plenty of time to dive together as a family and with her new dive buddies. As a mother, watching your 11-year-old confidently descend to 40 feet is a heart-warming experience. Witnessing your 16-year-old diving comfortably and easily in 80 feet of water is even more so. In addition to diving, donkeys, and dock diving, Bonaire is also known for its kite and windsurfing. The kids even got to pilot land-based blow-karts and cruise around a tire-lined track. Kids Sea Camp offers a full week of engaging activities with plenty of time together and apart.

In my opinion, there’s nothing better than Caribbean sunsets, salty ocean breezes, and night skies brimming with stars. We’re blessed to share our love of the ocean with our children and take them on underwater safaris to undersea fantasy worlds. Between the scuba diving, family karaoke contests, and sandy, exhausted kids, I couldn’t ask for a better family vacation than Kids Sea Camp provides each year.

Kids Sea Camp is always our first choice

Our family continues to choose Kids Sea Camp as our #1 choice for family vacations. Lucy completed her PADI Advanced Open Water course in the Philippines. ​The whale sharks were a wow! We dove as a family in Oslob, coming face-to-face with whale sharks in calm, clear water. And how do you ​possibly top that? Palau for our very first Kids Sea Camp liveaboard trip! Outstanding! ​Manta, sharks, wild dolphins, and the Rock Islands. We’ve created memories with Kids Sea Camp to last a lifetime​ and continue each year.

By the Chapman Family

 

Bound not just by blood but shared passions

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Kids Sea Camp, PADI JOW, OW, Diving with kids

The joy of becoming a scuba diver and a family of scuba divers.

Not long ago (2015, to be exact), my sister, Reagan, asked me if I wanted to go scuba diving in Fiji with her and my nieces, Lauren and Lucy.

“Of course, I immediately said it’s Fiji; who wouldn’t want to do that”?

Little did I know how that trip would change my life and my views on traveling, the world, different cultures, and the beautiful people that I would meet along the way.

Kids Scuba, Family Scuba Diving Adventures, Kids Sea Camp, Margo PeytonWe arrived in Fiji, not knowing anyone else. We realized quickly that we had no clue what we had gotten ourselves into. From the moment we arrived, we were surrounded by the Kid Sea Camp Company (KSC) and a group of like-minded people who shared not just a common interest in travel and an undeniable passion for scuba diving, but also for diving with their kids. It felt as though I had stepped into a vibrant tapestry of kind, friendly, welcoming, creative, and inspiring people. Each person we met fostered a camaraderie I didn’t know we could share.

By the end of the trip, what surprised me most was how quickly I formed deep connections with the Kids Sea Camp staff and families. We talked about the next KSC trip and making sure the kids would meet regularly. The discussions were not just about pursuing our passion for diving, but nurturing the friendships we had begun to cultivate on the first trip. It was as if we had just created a new family.  But really, this new family was the KSC family. A family one bound not by blood but by shared passions.

Ten years later

Ten years later, and ten years of the world’s best family dive trips all over the world, and what I remember the most are the friends that have become family, the kids that I watched grow into beautiful, kind, caring, and generous humans, and the company that made it all possible. Diving has brought me joy. (See gallery)

You see, Kids Sea Camp is about diving, connections (karaoke, volleyball, basketball, food, volunteering, laughing, crying), cultures, and education. These kids (and adults) have emerged into cultures, people, the ocean, marine life, and different communities. It’s an education that evolves beyond the classroom, where the classroom is the ocean, the reefs, the animals, and the respect for something so powerful yet peaceful. I remember every dive and learning about the marine life, but honestly, more important to me is that I remember the before, in-between, and after every dive, when we were laughing together over shared challenges, celebrating different achievements, and even brainstorming ways to get together again. “Family” is what Kids Sea Camp has created outside our “immediate” family. I look forward to our future gatherings, knowing I have a supportive network of people who inspire and challenge me to grow.

It’s incredible how a simple passion can lead to such meaningful relationships.

As an early Kids Sea Camper, “I didn’t have my own children,” and my wife did not dive. I was learning to dive on trips with my sister and nieces, and I loved that I quickly became “Aunt Jen” to

Kids Sea Camp, Sasy, Seal, Diving with kids

most of the kids. I have genuinely enjoyed watching each of them grow and still have connections with each of them. Now that my wife and I have our child (he just turned 3), we talk all the time about the excitement of sharing our dive passion with him. It’s like holding a treasure chest, filled with all the joy and fulfillment diving has brought you, and wanting nothing more than to see your little one dive in and discover the same magic you just spent watching other kids enjoy over the last 10 years.

He is already talking about seeing sharks one day and having his cousins Lauren and Lucy, Uncle Brian, and Aunt Reagan take him underwater. I can’t help but think about these moments. The excitement that I have shared with all the other kids will now be shared with my child. To be able to take him on the Kids Sea Camp journey. A journey that is more than diving. One where he will someday be my dive buddy. One that is nurturing his curiosity. One with a company where I know he will be taught what is important, to respect the ocean and others, and taught by the safest and most respected company in the industry, working with children. It’s like he will be getting an additional education through experiences with different cultures, races, and values, which is one of the most important gifts we can give him.

Kids Sea Camp cares for and serves all types of families

I will close with this. Kids Sea Camp “gives families a week they will remember forever.” It is a business that cares for and serves all types of families. This is one of the reasons my family, my wife, and our son will continue to be part of their family. The joy of diving starts and ends with Kids Sea Camp.

By Jennifer Yee

 

Progressing with confidence and capability

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Kids Scuba, Family Scuba Diving Adventures, Kids Sea Camp, Margo Peyton, Family Dive Adventures, Scuba Diving

Our experience with Kids Sea Camp has been nothing short of extraordinary.

By Quinn Ross

As a family that values travel and exploration, especially in connection with nature and the ocean, we sought something unique to foster a sense of adventure, learning, and togetherness. Kids Sea Camp not only met these expectations but has exceeded them in every imaginable way. Kids Sea Camp family diving vacations have given us something extraordinary—the gift of shared memories, deep friendships, and an appreciation for the marine world we carry wherever we go.

A profound connection

The Kids Sea Camp Staff is remarkable

The staff is another integral part of what makes Kids Sea Camp so exceptional. Every team member exudes passion, warmth, and professionalism, from the dive instructors to the activity coordinators. They go above and beyond to ensure that each child and family feels supported, safe, and encouraged to embrace new experiences. Watching Greyson interact with them has been a joy, as it’s clear they foster a learning environment that is both fun and educational. These are not just staff members— they are mentors, guides, and friends who make every moment memorable. Their genuine interest in each family’s journey enhances the camp’s sense of community.

Speaking of community, one of the greatest treasures we’ve gained from Kids Sea Camp is the friendships forged during these trips. It’s rare to find a space where families from all over the world come together with a shared sense of adventure, curiosity, and respect for the ocean. The camaraderie built during these trips is authentic and lasting. We’ve connected with people who share our values, and the bonds we’ve formed extend well beyond the camp. Greyson has made friends who inspire her, while my spouse and I have also found deep connections with fellow parents who understand and share our love for diving and travel. The magic of Kids Sea Camp lies in its ability to bring people together, creating relationships that transcend geography and time.

Margo and Tom have created a movement

At the heart of this incredible experience are Margo and Tom Peyton, the visionary owners of their work. They have built something far beyond a business or a camp; they’ve created a movement, a way for families to connect with each other and the natural world in a meaningful way. Margo and Tom’s passion for diving, conservation, and family is evident in every aspect of their work. They’ve poured their hearts into creating an environment that fosters learning, growth, and fun in a way that is both deeply personal and profoundly impactful. On a personal level, we’ve come to know them not just as the brilliant minds behind this campbut as individuals who genuinely care about the families they serve. They’ve become essential figures in our lives, and we cherish their friendship.

Kids Sea Camp is more than a vacation

Ultimately, Kids Sea Camp has provided us with far more than just a vacation. It has been a transformative experience for our family, shaping our view of the world and deepening our connection to each other. We are profoundly grateful for the adventures we’ve had and the memories we’ve made, and we look forward to continuing our journey with Kids Sea Camp for years to come. It truly is a one-of-a-kind gift that will stay with us for a lifetime.

Kid Sea Camp Trips: Mayan Princess Roatan, Seal Team for Greyson, age 8, 2022, Little Cayman Beach Resort, Little Cayman, Master Seal Team, age 9, 2023, Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia, PADI Jr. Open Water course, age 10- 2024, and on to St. Eustatius for 2025. (See calendar of events for KSC weeks)

Kids Scuba Programs for all ages

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Kids Sea Camp, diving with Kids, diving with family

Kids’ scuba programs at every destination

PADI Seal Team is an excellent program for kids aged 8-10. Kids Sea Camp Inc. offers one of the few 6-day scuba programs in the world that is conducted in the ocean. Our ratio of instructors to kids is one instructor for every two kids. The PADI Seal Team is an enjoyable program PADI created in 2001, based on fun, educational Aqua Missions in the pool. At Kids Sea Camp, we provide SeaLife Cameras for Photo Missions, fun ocean dives for Fish ID Missions, and night pool missions.

We dive everywhere

There are select locations: St. Lucia Kids Sea Camp Inc. with Scuba St. Lucia and Anse Chastanet; Buddy Dive Bonaire; Sea Explorers in the Philippines; and Reef Divers in the Cayman Islands. We take Seal Team kids scuba diving in the ocean and experience the underwater world with mom and dad. Over the past 25 years, we have taught over 4,000 Seals.

As a mom, I wanted a safe and fun way to introduce my kids to a world I loved and wanted to share with them. Kids’ Sea Camp is a great way to teach your children about the underwater world. Many local dive shops offer PADI Seal Team dives and classes, so ask your local dive shop about getting your little ones in the water. Kids have to be 8 years of age to start the scuba programs.

Scuba Rangers

There is also SSI Scuba Rangers, which I know is another excellent kids’ scuba program, although I have not taught it. What’s important for parents to know: Ask good questions. In my opinion, the ratio of instructors to kids in the water should be 1 instructor to 2 kids. Each operator has mandates and guidelines to follow, but you can always ask for a private class if you like my more conservative ratios.

Demand assurance

Ensure your kids want to participate; they should be excited and eager to learn. Discuss clear diving activities with your child’s doctor and ensure they are both mentally and physically fit to participate. Ensure the instructor you pair with your child is kid-friendly. The instructor needs a comfortable level of kid-teaching experience. Ask them how much experience they have. If your child falls in love with the program, keep encouraging them and continue to the PADI Master Seal Program.

Our seals and sassy

PADI seals can dive a max depth of 12 ft with an instructor. Master Seals have a max depth of 12ft with an Instructor. Experienced instructors can acquire waivers to take kids into the ocean. There are a lot of hoops to jump through to make this happen.

Kids Sea Camp has created a bunny slope for the dive industry. It’s been incredible to see how many of them have grown up to love the ocean and further their careers in diving. We have certified over 50 divemasters and contributed to 36+ instructors who started as little SASY or Seals. Many get into environmental sciences, Marine biology, dive law, and other marine careers that make a difference.

By Margo Peyton

Inspiring the next generation of divers

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Kids Scuba, Family Scuba Diving Adventures, Kids Sea Camp, Margo Peyton, Kids and scuba training

A scuba instructor’s philosophy when teaching kids to scuba dive.

Hello, my name is Margo Peyton. I have enjoyed teaching kids about the underwater world for 26 years. My philosophy as a scuba instructor when teaching kids is to inspire an appreciation and respect for our underwater world. I proactively share my joy, love, and understanding of the fragile marine environment they have committed to learning about. Scuba instructors are similar to other educators, coaches, and adventure guides. We have the transformative power to change a life for the better daily, one family at a time.

I must remember that in today’s world, the effort my students’ parents make to secure access to scuba-diving experiences for their children can be costly and challenging. As an instructor who teaches in the most desirable dive destinations around the globe, I try to make sure I am welcoming and attentive to each student as they arrive, nervous, excited, and hungry to embark on the journey to becoming a diver.

There are a few good points I’ve learned along the way when diving and teaching kids.

1. Share your passion with your students: Tell them what you love about diving and why. I like to talk about zero gravity, being present in the moment, and leaving the surface of my busy world behind.

2. Go Slow: Tell them what you’re going to tell them, tell them, and then tell them what you told them. Use analogies that will inspire and interest kids or make them laugh. Slow down your briefing and add some personal, friendly touches or experiences. Give plenty of time for Q&A. Go slower when demonstrating, descending, guiding, and ascending.

3. Those Tiny Little Ears: Most kids have no idea what equalizing feels like when learning to dive. They have shorter eustachian tubes than adults. I explain to kids what it feels like to land an airplane because all my students experience it when flying. So they get that analogy. I also explained that when they chew gum or swallow in the plane, they equalize the pressure in their ears, and I showed them how to do that with gentle pressure, holding their noses, wiggling their jaws, etc. I see the light bulb click in their eyes at that moment of understanding. It’s crucial to descend slowly, use a line to help them with this process, and over-emphasize pain as a complete stop. I could do a full story on ears, but most importantly, it can take up to 10 minutes for some kids to descend safely as young divers.  

4. Instructors can and should ask for assistance when needed: If you have not taught kids or don’t do so very often, ask for a certified helper. Students should never be left alone for any reason, and kids need more attention and time than adult divers.  They must be reminded to stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, take shorter breaks, and have additional assistance with carrying and setting up heavy gear. I have a comfort level with no more than two kids at a time, so that is my ratio as an instructor. One hand for each child. If I have three or more, I ask for assistance.

Five more important points

5. Stay super Close:  Staying close to kids! This means being able to reach out and touch them. It means understanding that kids can be like mosquitoes underwater. They can move fast, love zero gravity, and fly in any direction. Kids are wowed and distracted by the colors, fish, and each other. They love exploring how fast or slow they move underwater and enjoy being upside down and doing somersaults. I advise you to stay close enough so they can contact you when needed. I like my students close enough to hold on to during training dives, current dives, first-time night dives, and wall dives. 

6. Create Good Communication: It’s fun to communicate with kids underwater and teach them about marine life. Always have slates to draw on. I enjoy their writing and communication with me now, as kids should. Have a quick-release clip to attach to your Scubapro wet notes book and pencil to my students’ backpacks. I love their drawings of a fish, which they want to ask me about later, and reviewing their questions that tell a story of their dives. I love teaching kids signs and signals and letting them create new ones to share with their parents. This is one of the most excellent tools to give to kids and parents. Once they start diving together, writing notes can create bonds, preserve memories, and relieve stress. 

7. Ask your students questions: Building trust and getting to know your students a little better can make a difference in your dive. I ask how they feel and what they are excited to learn and see today. Ask the kids multiple times if they are too cold, hungry, or hot. Remember to ask if they are nervous and comfortable. I brief and debrief, then ask if they have any questions, and make sure they feel every question is essential and has been answered.

8. Be Patient and allow more time for everything: I run a junior open water class at every Kids Sea Camp as a week-long course. If you’re used to teaching adults, when teaching kids, get out of your head and ensure that everything runs smoothly, efficiently, and as planned. Then, you can make learning fun, take your time, and create memories to last a lifetime with kids.  

9 Turn around and have eyes on your students at all times: This is the one thing I find myself teaching and advising instructors the most. You could not take kids to a mall, carnival, or fair and walk in front of them for more than 2 min without turning around and expecting them to follow. The underwater world is like a giant aquarium full of fantastic aliens and critters to be memorized by. The corals, walls, and water are all distractions. Kids need constant oversight. My best instructors spend most of the dive diving backward. You are too far away if you can not see each child’s eyes clearly.

10: #1 question you will have to answer: Why repeatedly? Be prepared to answer this question in detail and often. Think about giving positive, inspiring, and safety-conscious answers. Do I have to take my mask off? Why do I have to wear a wetsuit? Do I have to wear a snorkel? Why can’t I touch that fish? Can I dive deeper? These questions must be answered with care, patience, and thoughtfulness. Try not to give answers that will scare kids. 

Most importantly, with kids, you can be the person who changes their lives, inspires their passion, and forever changes their love of the ocean. You are creating a memory that will last a lifetime and have a lasting effect on someone’s world that you may never know about. So make it a positive change.

Margo Peyton Family Dive Adventures and Kids Sea Camp Inc (Our mission)