Kids Sea Camp

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 shared memories, jokes, and raised glasses. 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. There, 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” then. It wasn’t long before women found their place in diving, let alone children! And as much as everyone talked about growing 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 happened primarily face-to-face, over 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. 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 age-appropriate kids’ dive courses and certifications 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 for them to enjoy these foundational experiences, too, and for them to 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, even in the little moments. 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. He shows his friends how you can be just as fun-loving and safe 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. 100 attendees enjoyed 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 enthusiastic about earning her PADI Jr. Open Water certification during her 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 say about Kids Sea Camp on its 50th Anniversary!

By Carolyn Pascal

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

If I Had A Boat

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If I had a boat

I’d host the Kids Sea Camp

And if I host Kids Sea Camp

I’d show ’em how I’d float

And we could all be together

Go out on the ocean

I said me and Kids Sea Camp on my boat

And if I were Luigi

I’d own the Arenui

I’d have all the nicest wood without fail

Oh, it’s just be Mei and me.

We’d ride through Indonesia

We bought a boat, and on the sea we’d sail.

And if I had a boat

I’d host the Kids Sea Camp

And if I host Kids Sea Camp

I’d show ’em how I’d float

And we could all be together

Go out on the ocean

I said me and Kids Sea Camp on my boat

Well, our Italian host was smart

He got himself a Dino

‘Cause Dino did the dirty work for free

But Dino was smarter

One day, someone said, “Boss man, sir!”

“Kiss my ass, I bought a boat, I’m going out to sea.”

And if I had a boat

I’d host the Kids Sea Camp

And if I host Kids Sea Camp

I’d show ’em how I’d float

And we could all be together

Go out on the ocean

I said me and Kids Sea Camp on my boat

And if I were like Tom and Margo

We’d live for the ocean breeze

We’d go and dive wherever we pleased

And we’d teach kids in Bonaire

And we’d teach ’em in Belize

And kids everywhere would learn to dive with ease

And if I had a boat

I’d host the Kids Sea Camp

And if I host Kids Sea Camp

I’d show ’em how I’d float

And we could all be together

Go out on the ocean

I said me and Kids Sea Camp

by Brian Dewan (sung to the melody of the Lyle Lovett song…apologies, Lyle!)

Planting the seed of our youth divers

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Kids and diving, scuba and kids, margo Peyton

Margo’s journey is as deep as the ocean

By Carolyn Pascal

Margo’s journey began with a simple seed planted by her father. She grew up exploring the waters off Cape Cod, Massachusetts. From her father’s fishing boat, she learned how to swim and befriend marine life much larger than herself, nurturing her love for the ocean. Margo’s passion for travel flourished, leading her to live in Grand Cayman for several years.

Kids Scuba, Family Scuba Diving Adventures, Kids Sea Camp, Margo Peyton Hall Of Fame

As a single mom working in the travel industry, she was determined not to leave her kids behind while continuing to explore the world above and below water. “There must be other dive travelers who feel the same way,” she thought. With PADI’s SASY, Seal Team, and Junior Open Water certifications gaining momentum, Margo embraced the idea of kids learning at their own level. These engaging programs offered parents the opportunity to return to diving and make new friends.

Margo Peyton sought out PADI 5-Star Dive Resorts willing to create a new type of experience—a week where kids could learn to breathe underwater in a safe, fun environment while enjoying the island’s unique features. “Starting with just six families in Curacao in 2000, I began to envision how we could create one-of-a-kind adventures for families worldwide. We added more weeks with carefully planned itineraries every year, allowing six-year-olds and their 60-year-old grandparents to share unforgettable experiences.”

How Did the Dive Industry React?

The dive industry initially responded with skepticism regarding children diving and families participating in a traditionally male-dominated sport. However, with supportive industry partners, SCUBAPRO manufactured children’s equipment and wetsuits, and SeaLife made underwater cameras accessible. Dive magazines introduced the concept in print and encouraged families to join in. Divers who had set aside their carefree dive travels after marrying and raising families suddenly had new opportunities to consider. As interest from divers grew, Margo expanded her PADI 5-Star resorts and liveaboards network, prioritizing safety at every turn. She committed to comprehensive PADI training and became a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and accomplished photographer.

How Has Kids Sea Camp Evolved Over Time?

“I wanted to ensure that, in addition to dive training, all our families would take away valuable lessons about the reefs and marine life and how to protect them for future generations.” By incorporating PADI Aware learning materials, scheduling beach clean-ups, and hosting evening talks on topics ranging from lionfish hunting to shark protection, both young and old minds opened up to new perspectives on responsible diving.

What is Ocean Wishes?

We also established the Ocean Wishes Foundation, dedicated to promoting, protecting, and preserving our underwater world for future generations. The foundation sponsors training grants for kids, supports marine life protection efforts, and facilitates reef restoration activities worldwide. Protecting our children’s future — and that of their children’s children—is essential to us.

Additionally, our Kids Sea Camp weeks and Family Dive Adventures have evolved. Our original Kids Sea Campers are over 30 years old, many have kids of their own, and their parents—now empty nesters—may not want to give up the joy and community of traveling this way. Thus, we now offer a variety of “Empty Nester” adventures for adults, while engaging extended family members, including active grandparents, has also become an increasing trend. Alongside our long-time resort partners in the Caribbean, we now provide exotic luxury liveaboards and access to more remote destinations.

What Has Been the Most Unexpected Result?

“I’ve always focused on making each day, week, and year the best possible. I haven’t taken much time to reflect on what these early experiences have meant for these children over time. Occasionally, however, a seed of an idea, an activity, or a piece of equipment I shared with a young child many years ago manifests in the most remarkable ways.

Who’s Kameron?

While in Grand Cayman with family and friends for my induction into the International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame, I felt nostalgic about all the years we ran Kids Sea Camp weeks at Cobalt Coast Resort and Dive Tech. I was compelled to visit and reminisce. While the resort was closed, the dive shop was open, and a young man named Kameron greeted me with a smile. I explained how I spent many years bringing families to that location. He listened politely and then mentioned that he, too, had spent time on the same dock with friends as a young boy. He recalled the groups of kids arriving every summer, although he and his friends often got shooed away when guests were around. I assured him that I would never have sent them away and that I usually brought extra masks, fins, and snorkels to local kids on the dock for them to keep.

Kameron and Margo meet again

Kameron continued to smile, and our conversation carried on from there. “I took in this moment, knowing that what I set out to do 25 years ago has had far-reaching effects beyond what I could have imagined. And, as it usually only happens in movies, Kameron was on the stage with me, as MC and Local Emerging Honoree, when I was inducted the very next night!” WOW!

What can stop Margo? Nothing.

With over 8,200 youth certifications during hundreds of Kids Sea Camp weeks over the years, there is no stopping Margo. Margo is an active member of the Women Divers’ Hall of Fame. She has received the PADI Lifetime Achievement Award and the DEMA Reaching Out Award, among others. What she values most is seeing those simple acts of kindness, smiling right back at her. One child at a time.

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.

Safe and easy Kids Sea Camp Travel Tips

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Travel tips, kids sea camp, family dive vacations

Pack smart when traveling with kids on long hauls.

Airports can be a hassle these days, but a little planning and preparation can make a big difference. Try these Kids Sea Camp travel tips to help you breeze right through.

Before Your Trip

  • Sign up for Global Entry.
  • Check your itineraries for seat assignments and add them to your calendar
  • Handle any special needs before you get to the airport. Pre-book seats or special meals.
  • Check that you’ve provided contact and emergency information to everyone who needs it.
  • Take care of passports, visas, and any other important documents well in advance.
  • Keep copies of all your documents in a safe place at home and a backup in your carry-on.
  • Use the airline app or online check-in for updates.
  • Download it to your cell phone.
  • Check in early to avoid long lines at the airport.
  • Know the check-in requirements for your airline and destination.
  • Know the requirements for the security checkpoints you’ll be traveling through, and remove any liquids, sharp objects, or anything else listed on the sign before entry.
  • Check security checkpoint wait times and allow plenty of extra time for busy holiday periods.

 

 

During Your Trip

  • Check the airport display screens and monitors to find your gate.
  • Arrive at the gate early with your boarding pass and eTicket receipt.
  • Keep an eye on the gate display screens, as gates change often.
  • Listen closely for gate announcements.
  •  

Make sure to pack a small carry-on with all your needs:

  • Snacks
  • Book
  • Small pillow
  • Sweatshirt or jacket, as airports can be cold
  • Toothbrush
  • Medications
  • Kids’ games or books, headphones
  • Bottled water is allowed

Adults

  • Contact solution (if needed)
  • Sunglasses
  • Eyeglasses
  • Sweatshirt for flight
  • Any medicines needed
  • Batteries must be placed in carry-on, not check-in luggage
  • Comfortable clothes
  • Favorite book
  • Hand lotion
  • Chapstick
  • Pack your personal valuables with you for up to 1 day’s worth of clothes
  • Single parents traveling with kids outside the country need a notarized letter of “Consent to Travel” prepared before departure

Travel Documents Needed

  • Passports required- Copies of Passports (have one set with you and leave another at home.)
  • C-Card for divers
  • CFAR Travel insurance (See link)
  • Logbook
  • Airline tickets

  • Itinerary

    Other Carry-on Suggestions

  • 1 bathing suit
  • Prescription medications
  • 1 set of shorts and a T-shirt
  • 1 set of undergarments
  • Sun Block
  • Dive regulator/computerCamera

  • Any item you will need

Suggestions for Packing for Trip

  • Plenty of sunblocks
  • Level 30-45 waterproof sunblock for kids
  • Insect Repellent
  • Extra-Batteries
  • The film, Disposal cameras (underwater).
  • Converter for electronics. Voltage is 210-240
  • After-sun products, Aloe Vera, etc
  • Small medical kit with Band-Aids
  • Ear drops-swimmers ear
  • Motrin
  • A cough and cold syrup
  • Sudafed
  • Airborne
  • Sunglasses
  • Extra set of contacts
  • Benydril
  • Dive Gear
  • Defog
  • Allergy meds
  • Socks can be used inside the fins

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

by
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!

25 Years of Diving into Family Adventures

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Kids and diving, kids sea camp, Family dive vacations

A 25-year celebration marks a significant milestone for me

Margo Peyton. My journey began 25 years ago as a single mom working as a dive travel agent. I yearned to share my love of the ocean with my two children. My passion was rooted in my childhood in Provincetown, MA., surrounded by the wonders of the sea—seals, whales, dolphins, sharks, turtles, and giant bluefin tuna. I grew up immersed in its rhythms. I wanted that same connection for my kids.

With a degree in travel and tourism, a lifelong love of the ocean, and a father who was a scuba diver, I embarked on a global adventure in the 1980s. I explored incredible marine environments, diving in spectacular locations. But when I became a mom, I discovered a void: there were no adventures designed for kids, no dive programs, and no family-friendly resorts. How could this be? My challenge was clear.

I set out to create what didn’t exist.

KSC in the news, Margo Peyton, Tom PeytonOne by one, I forged partnerships with family-owned and family-run resorts and liveaboards willing to cater to families: Curaçao’s ​-Ocean Encounters, Bonaire’s ​-Buddy Dive, ​Roatan with AKR, Mayan Divers, Turquoise Bay, Kimpton, Grand Cayman’s ​-DiveTech, Little Cayman​ & Cayman Brac’s ​-Reef Divers, ​Utila with Troy Bodden, St. Lucia’s ​-Anse Chastanet, Palau’s ​-Sam’s Tours, Yap’s, Manta Ray Bay, Galapagos with Explorer Ventures, Belize’s ​-Blackbird Caye, ​The Philippines with ​-Sea Explorers, Indonesia with Murex Dive Resorts, Wakatobi and The Arenui. ​St. Eustatius- Golden Rock, Fiji, Castaway Island, JMC, and many others in Costa Rica, the Maldives, St. Vincent, and Dominica. I sought safer choices, family-friendly crews, delicious food, comfortable rooms, and meticulous attention to detail.

Scubapro stepped up to sponsor smaller dive gear, and Sealife sponsored underwater cameras. PADI created exceptional youth-friendly programs like SASY, SEAL Team, and Junior Diver certifications. Around the world, we grew, and like-minded families bonded, forming a thriving dive tribe. I created a legacy of unforgettable memories for my children, giving them a global perspective beyond their wildest dreams.

A living classroom

Kids Sea Camp has become a living classroom for families, often spanning three generations on any given trip. Where once there were parents like me, now grandparents join their adult children and grandchildren to share the magic of the underwater world. For 25 years, I’ve connected not only my kids to the world but families of the world.

My life has been miraculous for a little girl who grew up in a time when women rarely owned companies or traveled extensively with children, let alone negotiated international contracts and partnerships. I am grateful to all the resort owners, dive operators, equipment manufacturers, and publications that believed in and supported my vision for family growth within the dive industry.

When we work together, trust one another, and unite around shared dreams and goals, we can create something truly amazing. Kids Sea Camp is a testament to that collaborative spirit. It’s a story of shared passion, unwavering dedication, and the profound impact of diving in to connect families.

Building lasting connections

This journey has been about more than just underwater adventures; it’s about building lasting connections, fostering environmental stewardship, and empowering families to explore the world together. It’s about creating a community where shared experiences forge unbreakable bonds and where the love of the ocean unites us all.​  Because of Kids Sea Camp, my family has grown.  I met and married Tom Peyton almost 2 decades ago, and as a family, we have built bonds and lasting friendships with our operators, clients, and suppliers worldwide. Tom has contributed to expanding Kids Sea Camp trips by adding sporting events, culinary classes, and special-needs options. Now, he has developed empty-nest trips for all the parents and grandparents who have enjoyed traveling with us. I’ve expanded Family Dive Adventures to accommodate all the many individual family dive vacations to the many destinations we offer.

We are still growing

For our 25th celebration, we are looking forward to the future with excitement and anticipation. In 2026, we’ll reach another incredible milestone: the first-ever World Kids Sea Camp event in the Philippines! Participants from six countries will converge for a single, unforgettable experience, truly connecting the dots through diving.

This event represents the culmination of a dream, a celebration of the global dive family we’ve built together. It’s a testament to the power of shared passion and the enduring magic of Kids Sea Camp. Join us as we continue to dive into family adventures for generations to come! Here’s to the next 25 years of Kids Sea Camp!

 

25 year Press Release

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Peyton family, Kids Sea Camp, diving with Kids, diving with family

Kids Sea Camp Celebrates 25 Years of Transforming Family Diving

Columbia, SC – January 23, 2025

Kids Sea Camp, the premier provider of family-friendly dive vacations, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Founded in 2000 by Margo Peyton, Kids Sea Camp has become the leader in ocean education and family dive vacations. Margo has traveled the world searching for the most family-friendly PADI 5-star resorts and operators with whom she partners for her custom-created diving events, offered in 13 countries and spanning 29 trips. These trips bring together like-minded families from around the globe to experience scuba diving, dive training, local culture, and family-friendly accommodations and activities.

Bonaire and the Philippines

With over 8,100 PADI certifications for youth divers and countless incredible adventures. Kids Sea Camp is celebrating its 25th anniversary with special events. The festivities will kick off at Buddy Dive Resort in Bonaire in August. During trips to the Philippines with Sea Explorers Dauin and Amun ini and in Belize at Blackbird Cay we will continue to celebrate.

Each event will feature a multi-night stay, diving, PADI dive training courses, Treasure hunts, three meals daily, live music and entertainment, special presenters, activities, and swag. Kids Sea Camp also invites families to join them for a series of educational workshops and presentations on marine conservation, underwater photography, and dive safety.

“We are so excited to celebrate our 25th anniversary with our incredible community of divers,” said Tom Peyton, Vice President of Kids Sea Camp. “It’s been a long journey since our first trip in 2000. We are proud to be a leader in providing families with unique and unforgettable dive experiences.”

To learn more about Kids Sea Camp and its 25th anniversary events, please visit https://familydivers.com/kids-sea-camp-event-calendar/.

About Kids Sea Camp

Kids Sea Camp is a leading provider of family-friendly dive vacations. Kids Sea Camp offers a variety of programs for divers of all ages and experience levels. The company is committed to providing its customers with safe, fun, and educational dive experiences.

Media Contact

Tom Peyton
Vice President, Kids Sea Camp

The Kids Sea Camp gallery has over 200,000 aqua-based images

 

Margo’s favorite places to dive with kids

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Family dive adventures, sasy training, kids and scuba, diving with young kids, margo peyton, Family Scuba Diving Vacations, Kids Sea Camp, Scuba Diving, Kids and scuba

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Finding My Favorite Dive Destination? It’s Impossible!

For 26 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!), my response has always been, “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

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

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 its easy access from the US (multiple daily, direct, nonstop flights!), strong safety record, and family-friendly resorts like Little Cayman Beach Resort and Cayman Brac Beach Resort, it had to be at the top of my list for young divers.

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. The 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!

The best Caribbean bar food

The food and service at both resorts are excellent, 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. There’s a spa on each property, 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. There are quaint shops and other restaurants to explore, as well as exceptional flora and birdlife to learn about. The Cayman Islands are known for their history and culture as well as their diving.

Bonaire: Buddy Dive Resort Kids Sea Camp

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 octopus.

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, allowing kids to gain 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.

Buddy Dive Resort is family-owned and extremely kid-friendly, with an in-ocean training area that minimizes pool time. Besides diving, my favorite activity is Blow Karting (land sailing) – a total blast for adults and kids! There’s also a sunset cruise, walking the plank, karaoke, and live music. Buddy Dive sits right on the oceanfront, offering some of the most effortless diving for families. There are 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 had instructor training with Buddy Dive. That was an amazing gift for me to witness and be a part of. Buddy Dive offers internship programs, Reef Renewal, and tech diver training for older kids and divers who want to further their dive training for future careers or fun. Our Buddy Dive Kids Sea Camp offers a variety of training courses during the week for adults and kids. SASY, Seal Team, JOW, AOW, Rescue, Jr. Divemaster, Divemaster, and Instructor courses have all been incorporated into our program.

St. Lucia: Kids Sea Camp Luxury and Adventure

St. Lucia is pure magic! It is one of the most romantic places in the Caribbean. 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. It’s a dream come true!

When Mrs. Karolin and Nick Troubetzkoy invited me to bring Kids Sea Camp to their world-famous resort, I felt like Dorothy clicking her ruby slippers in The Wizard of Oz! We have the entire resort to ourselves! Some families with older kids ages 15+ also stay at Jade Mountain, Anse Chastanet. That is just another level of romance and one of my favorite places on Earth to stay with Tom.

Imagine exploring vibrant reefs, encountering seahorses, and baby turtles hatching right on the beach. The dinner options let you indulge in world-class cuisine at four incredible restaurants. There’s Emeralds (a vegan restaurant), Balawoo (a treehouse restaurant with breathtaking views), the Jungle Grill, and Apsara Indian restaurant, all featuring Creole and Caribbean flavors.

The accommodations are breathtaking

This resort wowed me from the moment I stepped into my room. The accommodations are breathtaking, with options of one- or two-bedroom units overlooking the magical Pitons and the spectacular ocean, or beachfront bungalows surrounded by lush gardens. Each room is exquisitely decorated at this 4 Diamond resort. The service is out-of-this-world, exceeding expectations at every turn. It’s a constant stream of happy moments in St. Lucia because you are served beyond your expectations at every turn.

Being able to have the kids make and decorate cupcakes with the head pastry chef, as well as the chocolate tasting with the chocolatier! OMG, if you love chocolate, you have arrived in heaven. The chocolate lab, chocolate hands, and foot massage, etc, are beyond enjoyable.

The diving is simply spectacular. From awesome wrecks, local house reef or night dives exploring beautiful walls to the vibrant soft coral gardens, Scuba St. Lucia offers something for everyone. Oh, and you do not 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 member of the family 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. This perfect location, with its proximity to incredible dive sites, was a game-changer. Imagine being just a 3-minute boat ride from the Wit Concrete Wreck (which can even be done as a shore dive!). The resort is 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, along with a big favorite of mine: the loggerhead turtles, which are not shy! Others like to hunt lionfish or go topside; my husband loves to go fly-fishing while I’m off enjoying dives with the kids. The boats are big, spacious, and comfy.

With its pristine white-sand beaches dotted with charming seaside bungalows, its incredible diving, and a focus on marine conservation, Blackbird Caye has become a favorite! Thanks to the owners Garen and 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. There is marine life learning and excursions as well as presentations throughout the week. The food is delicious, and all meals are made from scratch. Family-style meals are served in the beach restaurant. The sunsets are well spent at the beach bar and pool, reminiscing about the day and resting up for the next day’s adventures.

Belize has so much to offer both non-divers and divers. We can book both pre- and post-trips to the jungle or ruins.

The Philippines diving with whale sharks

The Philippines holds a special place in my heart. I was greeted with a hug and a flower necklace at the airport in Manila. I knew I was in for something special. A quick hop flight over to Dumaguete, and we are 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, spacious, and offer valet diving, which basically means you do nothing. Hot chocolate, coffee, tea, biscuits, and cookies are served after every dive. Each dive group of 4 people has its own dive guide. The Filipinos are so much fun and love kids.

We get a very special dive that not many in the world get to do: the Whale Sharks of Oslob, which we do on our own private boat and with our own staff. We have a very special Kids Sea Camp Whale Shark Day. It’s one of the few times I can say that we guarantee you will dive or snorkel with a whale shark in Oslob. It’s just a huge wow. I’ve experienced 5 at a time.

Welcome to Apo Island

At Apo Island, the reefs are so beautiful that I actually cried underwater. At 18, the first time I saw reefs this healthy, it was overwhelming. There is a mountain school, a village tour, the Chocolate Hills, zip lining, and many top-side cultural activities planned for the Kids Sea Camp trip. I have packed it with local culinary delights, music, and fun for the entire family.

Planning ahead for the Philippines

We’re planning our Philippines vacation further in advance. The trip has multiple locations, since families travel so far; we maximize their stay with a few trip options. This year, I’ve arranged 6 nights at Pura Vida Homes with Sea Explorers, and 6 nights on Bohol Island at Amun Ini. Both offer opportunities to see whalesharks, 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, we are off to Dauin and Cabilao. You can give me a call. 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. (See our calendar events)

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 and exquisite cuisine, all while having 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, the ship redefines luxury dive travel. We offer land excursions, diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and pre- and post-Bali add-ons to create a truly 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 unique experiences. The destinations have their own appeal and unique experiences. All the KSC weeks create a magical family diving experience that gives the kids memories to last a lifetime.

Ready to plan your family dive adventure?

Check out KSC weeks (see link) or read heartwarming stories from our families. (see link)

Tips for Planning a Successful Family Dive Vacation:

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Bonaire, Kids Sea Camp, Travel tips

Planning Your Dive Trip: Start Early!

Here are a few tips to help you plan a successful family dive vacation. The key to a smooth and stress-free dive trip? Early planning! 

  • More Research Time: Starting early gives you ample time to explore potential destinations, compare options, and find the perfect spot for your dream dive vacation.
  • Better Flight Options: Early birds get the best flight deals! You’ll have more choices and flexibility with dates, airlines, and routes. Use tools like Google Flights to research itineraries and track prices. Be sure to have your airport codes handy!
  • Accommodation Choice:  Planning ahead ensures you snag your preferred accommodations.
  • Gear Up: Don’t forget your dive gear! Starting early allows plenty of time to check your equipment, make any necessary repairs or replacements, and ensure everyone in your group has what they need.
  • Time Zone Awareness: Pay close attention to time zone changes between your departure and arrival cities.

Need Help with Flights?

We’ve got you covered! Margo Peyton has over 15 years of experience as an airline reservations agent. We also recommend Lennie, our trusted independent air consolidator with over 25years of experience.

Choosing the correct destination for your family dive vacation:

Beyond the Dive: Our destinations offer a wide range of options, from snorkeling and kayaking to land sailing, jungle biking, and even barista or cooking classes and world-class spa experiences! Choose one of our locations to keep everyone happy with exciting activities above and below the surface.

Consider Diver Skill Levels: Do you have a mix of beginners and experienced divers in your family? No problem! Destinations like Bonaire, the Cayman Islands, and Roatan offer easy diving that is suitable for all levels. For more seasoned divers, consider the Galapagos, St. Lucia, Belize, the Philippines, or one of our many live-aboard adventures.

Accessibility and Dietary Needs: We believe everyone should be able to experience the joy of diving. That’s why we offer more accessible destinations like Roatan, Fiji, Belize, and Little Cayman, catering to those with mobility challenges. We also understand the importance of dietary needs. 

Marine Life Encounters: Dreaming of swimming with whale sharks, encountering majestic manta rays, or witnessing the magic of coral spawning? Each destination has its own unique marine life and seasonal events. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll guide you to the perfect spot to fulfill your underwater wishes.

Protect Your Investment: Why Trip Insurance is a Must

Peace of Mind in Uncertain Times: Life is unpredictable. Unexpected events, such as illness, accidents, family emergencies, or even work and school commitments, can derail your travel plans. Trip insurance, especially with a “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR) option, provides financial protection and peace of mind, allowing you to book with confidence. CFAR insurance goes beyond typical travel policies, covering a wide range of unexpected situations, including:

  • COVID-related disruptions: Travel restrictions, positive tests, or mandatory quarantines.
  • Missed flights: Oversleeping, traffic delays, or other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Passport issues: Expired or forgotten passports.
  • And much more: Hundreds of covered reasons to cancel your trip, giving you ultimate flexibility.

A Small Price for Big Protection: For a few hundred dollars per person, you can safeguard your investment and avoid potentially losing thousands on non-refundable flights, accommodations, and dive packages. Consider it an essential part of your vacation budget.

Book Early, Insure Early: The sooner you book your trip, the sooner you should secure your trip insurance. CFAR policies can even cover trips booked up to 3 years in advance, providing long-term protection and flexibility.

Planning a family dive trip?

Here are some tips to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience:

  • Embrace Flexibility: Remember to be kind, patient, and respectful to travel professionals and dive operators. Go with the flow, embrace the unexpected, and remember that flexibility is key to a successful trip.
  • Do Your Homework: Research your destination thoroughly. 

Other Important Tips

  • Dive training and services: Ensure the destination offers appropriate training and services for your family’s skill levels.
  • Client comments: Learn from the experiences of other families who have traveled with us.
  • Photo Gallery: Get inspired and excited about your upcoming adventure!
  • Protect Yourself with Insurance: Don’t overlook the importance of travel and DAN (Diver Alert Network). Dive accident insurance.
  • Pack Smart: Keep your luggage light and manageable. Consider investing in travel-friendly dive gear, like the SCUBAPRO Lighthawk or Rebel BCDs, designed for compact travel. Kids Sea Camp is a SCUBAPRO dealer and #1 with outfitting families and kids with dive gear, computers, and many other items that make your dive vacation easy and comfortable. 

Be Prepared

  • Be Prepared: Pack a day’s worth of essentials in your carry-on to handle potential baggage delays. Keep travel documents in a separate bag for added security. Make sure to have your certification cards, medications, a day’s worth of clothes, and a swimsuit
  • Consider your family members’ ages and abilities. Not all dive sites are appropriate for all ages and abilities. Be sure to choose a destination suitable for everyone in your group. Give us a call and talk to any of our dive instructor team. 
  • Make sure everyone has the proper training and certification. Talk to your experienced dive travel professional about your choices. Our team is all PADI Pros! Tom Peyton is a Divemaster; Margo, Kiley, and Rob are all PADI instructors and seasoned travelers, and are current and up to date in their teaching status. Kids aged 5-7 can do our SASY program, and 8- 9 can participate in Seal Team. Kids as young as ten can become PADI-certified divers. 
  • Be aware of the risks involved in diving. Be sure to educate yourself about your kid’s depth limits and restrictions. Talk to your family doctor about any conditions or concerns, as well as any medications you are taking. 
  • Call Kids Sea Camp and Family Dive Adventures today to plan your next great family adventure vacation. We are #1 in the dive industry regarding kids, diving, and family dive vacations. 803-419-2556