Have your passport or identity document at all times.
Follow local news sources during your stay to stay abreast of any potential concerns, including areas, dates, or times.
Exercise caution and good judgment, keep a low profile, and maintain a high level of vigilance.
Avoid demonstrations, which may become violent and unpredictable.
Obey the instructions of security personnel at all times.
Gather your required travel documents and make multiple copies. These copies will help you replace your originals if they are stolen or lost while traveling.
Give a set of copies to a trusted friend or family member.
Keep a set of copies with you, separate from your originals.
Take photos of your travel documents using your mobile phone.
Getting prepared for international travel may include considerations such as lodging, medical services, import restrictions, and more. Your preparations may vary depending on the country you are planning to visit. You can access these best practices to guide you in your plans:
Certain types of travelers have personal needs or participate in activities while traveling abroad. Check the list of personal needs and safety tips for activities to find the planning information for your trip.
Be alert
Always remain alert and prepared to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime while traveling. Following these crime prevention tips can make a difference when traveling internationally.
Don’t wear expensive jewelry or carry valuable items.
Trust your instincts. Plan ahead and have a safety strategy.
Have a personal alarm or whistle to scare off attackers.
Consider taking a self-defense class before you travel.
Know where local police stations and hospitals are located.
Don’t share detailed travel plans online until you return home.
Use a “Find My Phone” GPS tracker on your devices. Share your location with someone trusted at home.
Download offline map apps so you can navigate without an internet connection.
Keep your phone charged and carry a portable battery.
Tell someone at home your travel itinerary. Share hotel names, locations you will visit, U.S. embassy or consulate information, and your emergency contacts while abroad.
What is STEP?
Are you traveling outside the United States? You should enroll in our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). It is a free service that sends you email updates and alerts from U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. The U.S. embassy and consulate updates in your inbox when you’re abroad. Join our Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) today.
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.
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.
Traveling with kids’ information and documentation is needed.
Traveling internationally can be tricky. Each country has its own restrictions and mandates, so it’s essential to check the immigration website of the country you are traveling to. Your airline or the tourism board is also a great source of proper information. Check where you go this year at an International Kids Sea Camp event.
Adults traveling outside the U.S. with children age 18 or under other than their own must have a notarized “Consent to Travel” Letter from both of the minor’s parents or guardians in order to leave and return to the U.S.
A child departing the United States and traveling with only one parent, a guardian, grandparents, or other adults must have a written and notarized Permission to Travel Letter from both birth parents or legal guardians to enter many countries, even on a cruise ship’s shore excursions.
The Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade reminds visitors, “Foreign officials and transportation companies are vigilant concerning documentation for children crossing international borders. Make sure you carry the proper identification for yourself and any children traveling with you, including any documents required by the authorities of the country you intend to visit and by U.S. and Canadian authorities on your return to the U.S. or Canada with the child.”
Travel Documents Help Protect Kids
This requirement for an affidavit for children traveling outside their home country stems from the heightened awareness of children’s rights raised by the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. As of July 2011, this treaty, created to deter international child abductions, is in force between the United States and 82 other countries and territories, including Canada and Mexico.
Nevertheless, international child abduction stories are in the news all the time. To stop these tragic crimes and prevent the transport of runaways or children involved in child custody disputes, American carriers have been told to require unique documents, such as Permission to Travel Letters from adults departing the U.S. with minors.
Additionally, rising healthcare costs and legal issues have forced many medical providers to deny medical care to minors without proper Medical Authorization forms. Increasingly, written permission or affidavits from guardians who carry the minor’s insurance coverage, as well as proof of that medical insurance coverage, are required at emergency care facilities.
The same regulations apply to minors under 18 leaving the United States with school groups, teen tours, or just friends on a vacation. Sports teams and academic study programs require a similar Minor Consent to Travel form.
Read on for tips on making this paperwork less of a burden, or scroll to the bottom of this story to obtain sample forms.
Getting a U. S. Passport or Foreign Passport for a Minor
To enforce the Hague Convention provisions, the U.S. Department of State requires that every citizen, no matter the age, traveling internationally by air carry their passport and appear in person to apply for one. These very strictly enforced guidelines for obtaining a passport for a minor require the presence of both parents, with photo ID and proof of parentage, or one parent’s appearance accompanied by a notarized statement of consent from the second parent or legal guardian.
Exceptions are made if there’s documented evidence that a minor has only one guardian; for example, divorce papers, death certificates, adoption papers, or a lawyer’s letter would indicate that the presence of one legal guardian is sufficient. This complex issue is explained in more detail in the U.S. Passport Office.
Custody Issues
If child custody issues are a concern for you, the Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program notifies parents of passport applications made on behalf of minor children and denies passport issuance if appropriate court orders are on file with the CPIAP. The Office of Children’s Issues will provide more information.
Citizens of other countries must check with their own country’s embassy, as passport issuance laws have become stricter worldwide. Michelle Higgins’s story in the New York Times Practical Traveler column should provide more information on this topic and tips for parents with children of dual nationality or different citizenships. If you’re planning your foreign vacation, start this process early. United States security and border regulations change frequently, and the increased number of passport applications means a backlog at the National Passport Center. Visas & Travel Documents for Minors
It can get complex
In an era of heightened global security, many foreign countries are revising their visa procedures as well. Contact the embassy of your destination country or study the Consular Information Sheets provided at http://travel.state.gov to find out what that country’s requirements will be in terms of documentation in order to bring a child into the country.”
US airlines have on most websites information that confirms that they enforce this during the check-in process with the posted rule: “If adult passengers do not have the proper documents, as defined by the U.S. Department of State guidelines, boarding is denied in order to comply with international regulations and the foreign immigration process.”
Some countries require a notarized original copy of the Permission to Travel Letter before even accepting a visa application for minors. Many countries also require that the authorization notes be in the country’s national language and notarized and authenticated by the country’s embassy or consulate. For information on the requirements for travel to a specific country by an American citizen, visit the US Department of State and navigate to the International Travel Information page. When in doubt about the information, it’s best to call the Visa Section of the embassy or consulate of your intended destination.
What Permission To Travel or Consent to Travel Letters Do
A consular officer at the U.S. Office of Children’s Issues (888/407-4747) verified that many countries require a Permission to Travel letter with parents’ notarized signatures, plus identification for the child (certified birth certificate or passport), and that both are essential.
Consular Information Sheets issued by the U. S. Department of State (which does not make these regulations) often carry this warning: “In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of the relationship and permission for the child’s travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian if not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.”
U.S. Customs & Border Protection recommends that all travelers read the helpful booklet “Know Before You Go.” Although minors under 16 may enter Canada from the U.S. by land or sea with only a photocopy of their U.S. birth certificate, the CBP notes that children under age 18 must carry notarized travel permission letters if they are traveling without their parents.
Children’s Travel Permission Letters Required for Cruises, Too
Such concerns apply not only to air and land travel but also to liveaboard cruise travel.
Obtaining a Free Permission to Travel Letter Form
We recommend that you download FTF’s sample “Permission To Travel” letter from the next page. Print it. Complete it. Have it notarized, and carry it with you on all future international travel. Is notarizing the document necessary, especially for Canadian families, who pay much higher notary fees than those in the U.S. “It is strongly recommended that children traveling alone or with one parent carry a consent letter for every trip abroad. It is advisable to have the consent letter certified, stamped, or sealed by an official with the authority to administer an oath or solemn declaration so that the validity of the letter will not be questioned.” From the Canadian Consular Affairs Office.
Tip: Notarize several copies of the Permission to Travel Letter simultaneously if you are applying for foreign visas. Carry two copies with you on your vacation in case a border official.
When you cross a border by land, sea, or air, you will need proper identification documents for each traveler in addition to the above letters. Please see the Department of Homeland Security Website if you are unsure which ID documents you and your family need.
Travel Prepared to Avoid Confusion
For more information, contact your attorney or a professional travel agent. On vacation, travel prepared. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Get Blank Permission to Travel, Minors & Medical Authorization Forms
Thorough documentation is especially important in situations involving travelers or guardians with different last names or a minor. We also recommend that birth parents who have different surnames from their child carry a photocopy of the child’s birth certificate while traveling, providing legal evidence of “guardianship” in case of trouble.
Travel agents occasionally: the fine print in a brochure is supposed to notify families that airlines, cruise lines, and bus tours may require proper documentation—or deny boarding. The paperwork can —and often does —slip between the cracks.
Travel insurance, trip protection that we feel is essential (and many vacationers are reluctant to purchase), is a must to get!
Same-sex couples and adoptive, divorced, or widowed parents should carry certified custody or death certificates, adoption papers, or other proof of sole custody, as well as photo identification for themselves and the child.
Remember, having these essential documents for travel with minors could save your next vacation.
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
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)
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.
ConsiderDiver 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
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.
We 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
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.
I first fell in love with the undersea world when I was seven. OK, I am fudging that a little bit because I can’t remember exactly how young I was, only that I was very young and that it was in that kindergarten- or elementary-school-age window that I saw, on television, my first-ever Jacques Cousteau Undersea Special. I was immediately hooked on the idea of becoming a diver. From that moment on, I knew that somehow, someway, I would get certified to dive and that it would become a big part of my life.
Fast forward to 1994, when I finished medical school and, for the first time in my life, had a real income. I finally took the first step toward that long-held dream and became a certified open-water diver. A few years later, I got my girlfriend, Saundra, hooked on the sport. We became lifelong buddies when I proposed underwater during a dive trip in Guanaja, Honduras (we even had goldfish bowls as centerpieces instead of flowers at our wedding!).
Married to the sea
Saundra and I dove worldwide whenever we could, and like many other couples, the undersea world became one of the most important things we did together.
In 2005, our diving careers had to pause with the arrival of our firstborn child, Sam. Then, in 2009, twins Adam and Lauren showed up, and we became a family of five. We still managed to dive every once in a while, but nowhere near as often as we had or as we wished, and we had to leave the kids at home.
Sasy and Seals
When Sam was 8, we learned about an SCUBA program for children offered by our local dive shop, and I don’t think you could have contained my excitement when I learned that kids could get certified at age 10! We immediately signed her up, and she took to it with more exuberance than I could have hoped. We later learned from Margo Peyton that Kids Sea Camp and many dive shops also offer the SASY snorkel program for kids ages 4-7 and the PADI Seal Team for kids ages 8 & 9.
However, Kids Sea Camp is one of the few in the world to take those kids to the ocean. Most dive shops offer those programs daily and in a pool. Margo has made an entire week of fun out of them for youngsters, so moms and dads can go diving while younger kids are having a blast in the undersea world.
Needless to say, as soon as Sam was 10, we got her certified, but like so many others, we quickly found that diving with kids is not as easy as getting them certified. Few operators were willing to accept the liability of diving with children, and those who did often lacked the experience or skills to make parents feel completely comfortable.
Finding Margo
And so it was in 2018 that, like so many others who came before us, Saundra and I found ourselves one evening entering that fateful combination of words into the Google search bar: ‘diving with children’. Of course, we landed immediately on the one and only Margo Peyton, and our lives were forever changed for the better.
Kids Sea Camp immediately appealed to us, but with our kids attending a private school whose holiday calendar seemed to be offset by every other school system in the country, none of the dates aligned well with our availability. Margo was undeterred. She set us up for a week at Buddy Dive in Bonaire, a location Saundra and I knew well. And so, in April of 2018, we found ourselves on our first-ever Family Dive Adventure. Sam dove with us and our private guide, arranged by Margo, while the twins took their first Seal course and took to the sport as enthusiastically as their big sister had.
More than friends
The next year, we found a KSC week that worked with our school schedule, so we jumped at the chance to attend a Cayman Islands Kids Sea Camp. There, we met three people who have become some of our closest friends: Tom, Margo, and Olivia. (See gallery)
Over the years, we have been on seven more KSC trips to the Galapagos, Cayman Islands, Bonaire, St. Lucia, Roatan, the Philippines, and the Turks & Caicos. All have been extraordinary. Over that time, our children have become exceptional divers. When we took them to the Galapagos, the dive boat staff commented privately to me on how impressed they were with Adam and Lauren, two fourteen-year-olds of small stature who could dive as well as any adult in challenging conditions. I replied that it is entirely attributable to the incredible program that Margo and Tom have developed. Without the two of them guiding and hosting us, I would never have felt comfortable letting my children dive on a liveaboard or anywhere else!
The struggle of 2020
Of course, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing with beautiful sunsets, and the year 2020 brought not only the COVID-19 pandemic. But 2020 also brought us a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma for Lauren at the worst possible time. The love and friendship of Margo, Tom, and Olivia during those difficult months meant the world to us and is a shining example of how they view their relationships with their customers as more than just business interactions but as real investments in people and long-lasting connections.
What makes it so personal? Tom’s KSC karaoke, singing with Sam, and encouraging her and me to share our voices with the world. Then, the entire KSC team helped me create a surprise Lip Dub in St. Lucia for my wife on our anniversary. What a fantastic memory they left us with. We have made many new friends and enjoy reconnecting with them and meeting others on each trip. Kids Sea Camp and the undersea world have become a part of a family that was never expected.
Empty Nesters, here we come
We continue to travel with Kids Sea Camp as a family, Sandra and I. We also enjoyed an Empty Nester trip to Indonesia with Margo and Tom, a photo-intensive journey we both enjoyed. I’ve been exploring underwater photography, and that trip to Lembeh gave me a glimpse of our future. It will be a little while before we are empty nesters, but when we are, Margo and Tom have given us a glimpse into what it could look like. We have already booked a 2029 “Why Not” trip aboard the Arenui with them. (See Calendar)
Kids Sea Camp is very much like an extended family. “Give them a week, and they will remember forever.” Give yourself an experience you will cherish, and open your family to limitless possibilities in the undersea world.
“Our only option for getting our kids certified to scuba dive was in the dark, kelp-filled, cold water.”
Michael and I, both raised in scuba-diving families, could not wait until our son, Trey, and daughter, Hutton, turned 12 so we could get them both SCUBA certified. We didn’t realize that the certification for Junior Open Water with PADI had changed to age 10!
Michael and I went to our local Dive Shop in Hermosa Beach, CA, and our son, Trey, quickly completed the e-learning, confined, and pool work. All that was left were the four open-water dives. Now let me explain: it would have to be done off the coast of Palos Verdes, CA, in January – in dark, kelp-filled, cold water. (This is not the definition of kid-friendly, and not the perfect place to learn to dive.) While Trey was very comfortable in the ocean and a strong swimmer, he would also have to wear a thick 7 mm wetsuit, a hood, booties , and a great deal of lead weight. Well, he was not having any of it! We knew right away that this wouldn’t be the place for either child to learn to dive. The search for our family’s dive vacation began.
We found Kids Sea Camp
Not giving up, we decided to look into group scuba trips to help us navigate and find kid-friendly dive sites around the world that would provide a safe, comfortable, and fun option for our kids to complete Jr. open water certificationsfor our kids.
That’s when we found Kids Sea Camp! It was exactly what we needed. A group of top scuba instructors arranged trips for families who wanted to explore the underwater world together. As a bonus, they were focused on families and offered incredible youth dive training programs and continued environmental education for all. Done. Is Kids Sea Camp the perfect place?
Kids Sea Camp has exceeded all our expectations. Both of our kids have been successfully certified at Kids Sea Camp, and we have been on two one-week-long dive trips to Little Cayman (Little Cayman Beach Resort and St. Lucia at Anse Chastanet Resort)
With each trip, we all become more confident and comfortable. Our family loves the balance that these trips give us as well. We get to have quality family time together, hours of diving, great meals, getting to know other families, and stolen private moments alone. Margo and Tom provide professional photographers throughout the week to capture each memorable moment of our family diving and the kids’ newfound friends.
Little Kids and Big Kids are everywhere
Scattered throughout the week, everyone (both big and small, young and old – like Tom, haha) has the option to enjoy activities such as jungle biking, sunset cruises, chocolate tasting, paddle boarding, treasure hunts, hiking, volleyball (a family favorite!), karaoke (start practicing your song now!), various culinary delights and art classes.
There is time together and time for making new friends with other like-minded families. We are so happy that our kids love diving, and as a family. The family can unplug and reconnect by exploring the underwater world together.
We cannot recommend Kids Sea Camp enough! It’s one of those perfect vacation gems you almost don’t want to share with others lest they take your spot! But no, all jokes aside, we were always blown away when speaking with other KSC guests regarding how many years they have been diving with Margo and Tom. Some have been with KSC for more than five years! And I know we, too, will be among them. Now we have to agree upon the next perfect place for our family!
Thank you for all the memories (and incredible photography!) Margo, Tom, and the entire Kids Sea Camp crew!
Much love, The Morris Family (Kati, Michael, Trey, and Hutton)
When you’re getting ready to travel this summer with your family, make the best choices for airlines that cater to family travel and will guarantee you’re seated next to your kids. Check out these best tips for ensuring your family stays together during air travel. (See link:)
Airport tips
Pay the higher price for assigned seats. Do not wait until airport check-in.
I arrive 3 hours before. Arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before boarding to make time for security. For international flights,
Get a Global Entryfor international travel.
Get clear for domestic travel.
Flights tips
Remember, all children need passports. This process can take 3-6 weeks. If you are traveling with a child with a different last name than yours, you may be required to have travel documentation and proof of guardianship. Check with your airline to find out what you need. When traveling internationally, a passport is required. Again, if you are traveling with a child who is not your own or has a different last name than you, you will most likely be required to show legal documentation for traveling out of the US. This can also be true for single parents traveling alone with a child. Check the immigration site for your destination and your airline.
Bring snacks on long flights. Food is rarely provided, and when it is, it may not meet your dietary needs. Pre-order meals on international flights when they are available.
Be vigilant about making sure you and your kids remain buckled in for your flights. Many adult and child passengers have recently been injured on flights due to turbulence and not having seatbelts securely fastened. I understand it cannot be easy to keep young kids strapped in, but good habits and consistency can help. Lead by example. Kids should be accustomed to this with cars, and flights are no different. Teach them the importance of safety.
Ensure kids and adult family members are using headphones and not playing their entertainment out loud. Remind kids that there are people seated in front and behind them, and their movements directly affect others.
Have fun and enjoy the journey. Be kind, patient, and courteous. Come travel with us this summer and create memories that will last a lifetime for your family.
What to bring, what to pack, where to go, and how to plan:
Planning a dive trip can be a lot of work, so having a family travel expert like Kids Sea Camp handle it makes the process fun and incredibly rewarding. Here are a few tips to help you plan a successful family dive trip:
Start by planning early. The earlier you start planning, the more time you’ll have to research destinations, book flights, and accommodation, and get everyone’s dive gear needs together.
Choose the right destination. When choosing a dive destination, consider factors such as the type of diving you want to do, the time of year, and your budget.
Book your flights and accommodation early. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to get the best deal and the most direct flights.
Get everyone’s gear together. Ensure you have a list of what is needed and what you have. If you’re going to rent dive gear, planning early ensures sizes and needs are met. Dive gear is a very personal item, and kids should at least have a wetsuit, mask, fins, and snorkel. Kids Sea Camp is #1 in outfitting kids with scuba gear needs.
To ensure everyone’s safety and comfort, talk to your dive professional about dietary needs, special needs, concerns, and expectations. The more we know, the better we can meet your needs.
Be flexible. Things don’t always go according to plan, so be prepared to make changes if necessary.
Here are some additional tips that you may find helpful
Do your research. Before you book anything, take some time to research your destination. Read online reviews, talk to other divers, visit our website, and look at the Dive training and services offered, client comments, and the photo gallery.
Get travel and dive insurance. This is always a good idea, but it’s especially important for dive trips. Travel insurance can cover you in a medical emergency, lost luggage, or other unexpected events.
Pack light. Bring what you need and consider lighter bags, and more travel-friendly dive gear, such as the SCUBAPRO Lighthawk BCD or the Rebel, which are specifically made for compact and lightweight design.
Be prepared for the unexpected. Things don’t always go according to plan, so be ready for the unexpected. Bring 1 day’s worth of items in your carry-on in case of baggage delay. Pack snacks and stay hydrated during travel days. Have a second copy of your trip documents and passports in a separate carry-on.
Have fun! Dive trips are a great way to see the world and connect with like-minded families. So relax, enjoy yourself, and allow us to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Additional Tips for Planning a Family Dive Vacation
When planning a family dive vacation, there are a few additional things to keep in mind:
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 to answer your questions.
Not everyone is a certified diver. Before you book your trip, make sure everyone in your group has the proper training and certification. Kids aged 5-7 can do our SASY program, and Kids aged 8 and 9 can participate in Seal Team. Kids as young as 10 can become PADI-certified divers.
Be aware of the risks involved in diving. Diving can be dangerous if safety protocols are not followed. Be sure to educate yourself about the kids’ depth limits and restrictions. Talk to your family doctor about any conditions or concerns before scuba diving.
Call Kids Sea Camp and Family Dive Adventures today to start planning your next great family adventure vacation. We look forward to serving you: 25 years and over 8000 youth scuba certifications. We are #1 in the dive industry regarding kids, diving, and family dive vacations.
With some planning, you can easily organize a successful family dive vacation that everyone will enjoy.
We 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.
The struggle of 2020
