Freeport,
Bahamas

January 11-18, 2025

(all airfare is included from CMH)

$250 NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT SECURES YOUR SPOT!

(click on the Manta above to go back to the Aquatic Adventures of Ohio website)

Double Diver pkg: $2,986/pp

Single, Double and Triple occupancy rooms available.
Great trip for non-divers as well!

This package includes:

- International airfare to/from CMH
- 7 nights' accommodation at an All-Inclusive resort
- 10 Boat Dives
- Caribbean reef shark dive/Pretenders Wreck
- Airport ground transfers

…and more!


THIS TRIP IS GREAT FOR divers of all experience levels!

Freeport, Bahamas, is a hidden gem for scuba diving enthusiasts.
Its pristine waters, thriving coral reefs, and abundant marine life create an
unparalleled underwater playground.



Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham

Freeport, Grand Bahama Island

January 11-18, 2025

All-inclusive Resort
Superior Garden View Room

Freeport is known for its exceptional underwater experiences that promise both adventure and natural beauty.

Located in the Bahamas, the Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham resort offers direct access to vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasionally even dolphins. The crystal-clear turquoise waters provide excellent visibility, making it easier for divers to explore the intricate underwater landscapes.


Scuba Diving

The Reef Oasis Viva Bahamas is located inside the Beautiful Resort of Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach.

One of the most beautiful paradise Resorts on the Grand Bahamas with a breathtaking view of the ocean. The Diving Center has perfect logistics  to satisfy beginners, expert divers, Shark Divers, snorkelers.

Not certified yet?
You've got time!

Aquatic Adventures Ohio has classes going year-round. Now is the perfect time to complete your certification in Ohio so you can enjoy the most diving that Freeport has to offer!

Click the link below for more information!



January 11:
Arrival
Freeport

You'll arrive in Freeport, Bahamas this morning and be met by your driver at the airport to take you to your hotel.

The rest of the afternoon is free to spend at leisure.

For your international group* flights, we have secured the following:

American Airlines flight AA3667
Departing CMH at 6:30am
Arriving MIA at 9:20am

(layover for 45m)

American Airlines flight AA3453
Departing MIA at 10:05am
Arriving FPO at 11:01am

*PLEASE NOTE: A minimum of 10 guests is required to have group airfare.

*Lodging (7nt): Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham


January 11-18

10 boat dives

1 Caribbean reef shark dive/Pretenders Wreck

Extra scheduled beach and night diving available

(Nitrox is available for an extra charge)


Grand Bahama Dive Sites

PLEASE NOTE: ALL DIVE SITES BELOW ARE EXAMPLES OF THE DIVES YOU MAY BE DOING DURING YOUR TRIP. THE LOCAL DIVE OPERATOR WILL TAKE INTO ACCOUNT BEST SITES BASED ON THE WEATHER AND OTHER FACTORS.

There’s no guarantee that you’ll visit these sites, but if you have a preference you can let the
local dive guide know what you’re most interested in seeing!

Sharks Alley

The Western side of shark alley. Connects with hydro Lab to the East and Caves Sites to the south. A very interesting dive with many options for a tour. Named ‘pretenders wreck’ for the 45’ upside down tugboat hull holding down the mooring line. Plenty of Grey Caribbean Reef Sharks circling the area, along with Hugh Groupers, Schooling Jacks and Spade fish, often a stingray or two. And you never know what else!


Depth: 15m
Great for: All divers

Theo’s Wreck

Theo's Wreck dive site is located about 1.5 miles from the coast. The wreck is about 230 feet long and rest on the ocean floor on its port side, between the deep reef and the drop-off at a depth of about 101 feet. The bow points landward and the stern seaward, she rests on a flat, sandy floor, among a few isolated coral banks. Two permanent buoys, one at the bow and one at the stern, mark the ship's position. The waters around the wreck are subject to currents that vary according to the tides; use the buoys for safe resurfacing. Since she was sunk in 1982, the ship has become home to numerous fish and is now covered with rich vegetation. The bow anchor chain, in particular, has splendid gorgonian sea fans. The shaded part of the hull is completely smothered in orange false gorgonians.


Depth: 30 m
Great for: Advanced

Papa Doc Wreck

A group of mercenaries headed to fight in the Haitian revolution to overthrow Francois "Papa Doc" Duvalier made it no further than this spot. Their 70-foot boat sunk in a storm in 1968. As recently as ten years ago, ammunition clips could still be found among the scattered coral heads. Two engine blocks and assorted sections of the old shrimper are still visible.


Depth: 10-14 m
Great for: Beginner

Ben’s Blue Hole

This classic site could be considered our ‘house reef’ as its right in front of the resort. Mooring is set at about 40-45ft in a coral head, directly south of the pin you can see a large sunken horseshoe shape in the sand, this is bens blue hole. The Blue hole is a funnel, or channel for freshwater to come out into the sea, the water mixing creates an interesting place for fish to hang out. Often you will find a large green moray eel or grouper hanging out under the ledge of the blue hole. We also see loggerhead turtles here regularly. This site is very good for photographers on a sunny day who like to coral head hop.


Depth: 12-15 m
Great for: Beginner

Ann’s Paradise

Anne was a local school teacher and diving enthusiast. This site was Anne’s favorite. A very pretty site with plenty coral growth - rows of thick coral heads. Always plenty of flamingo tongues and lettuce leaf slugs on this reef. Hogfish and yellow tail snapper are frequently seen.

Depth: 13-16 m
Great for: Beginner

Caves 1 and 2

Two very interesting sites, well worth the visit. Site is comprised of thick spur and groove coral formations, teeming with life. So many cracks, nooks, crannies and hiding places for fish that it is almost impossible to see everything! Both Moorings are set along a sloping drop-off. Starting at 60’ sloping to about 80-90’ at the bottom. In the deepest part of this site it is possible to see a sunken chamber. Groupers, Jacks, Remoras and sharks, from neighboring Shark alley, are frequent sightings. At both sides of this site, there are various swim-throughs to explore.

Depth: 18-24 m
Great for: Intermediate

Sea Star Wreck

(Formerly Emmanuelle) was sunk in April 2002. The ship is approximately 180 foot long and sits upright, in 2 sections in around 90 feet of water. As a freighter, she has a cavernous cargo hold which is open to exploration, where the diver can see evidence of how the ship was made ready for sinking, with cement ballast and holes in the side of the hull still visible. The wreck is now home to many varied species of fish and plant life, including some of the biggest arrow crabs in the area. Other interesting aspects of the dive include a small crane on the deck full of schooling snapper, and the chance for more experienced divers to explore the galley, crew quarters and wheelhouse


Depth: 27 m
Great for: Advanced

Pygmy Caves

The high profile corals here form small caves. One would have to be the size of a pygmy to swim through them! Quite often Lobsters or spotted morays are hiding in these small crevices. Here you will also see lapping plates of hard coral. Frequently you will see schools of spade-fish near the surface.


Depth: 18-24 m
Great for: Intermediate

Reef Caribe

This site features three lines of isolated coral heads running parallel to each other. Look carefully for Christmas tree worms and feather dusters. The tops of the heads are covered with assorted gorgonian and sea fans. Hog fish seem to frequent the area as well as stingrays with their ever – present jack escorts


Depth: 10-14 m
Great for: Beginner

Picasso Gallery

Shape of this reef forms a rough ‘painters palette’. It is said the coral heads at this site are like masterpieces in an art gallery, you move from one piece to the next seeing what each one has to offer. Colors are fantastic – considered a photographers delight. Lots of small life, Arrow crabs, slugs, juveniles. You will often find a stingray or a stray reef shark.


Depth: 12-20 m
Great for: Beginners

Gale’s Grotto

Sharks and spotted rays are frequently seen here. There is a coral cavern that passes through the reef for about 100 feet. The cavern is inhabited by soldier and squirrel fish.


Depth: 20-24 m
Great for: Intermediate

Angels’ Camp

At the mooring pin you find sections of coral running from east to west. Running parallel to this is a large sand channel – an extension of shark alley. Queen, Grey and French Angel fish are often encountered in the area. Great place to find lobsters, stingrays, spotted drums and even the odd Gray Caribbean reef shark. A nice relaxing second dive.


Depth: 10-14 m
Great for: Beginner

Plate Reef

Many varieties of hard coral have formed here. Many plate coral overlap above the surge channels. The blue hole here is quite large and comes right out of the side of a high profile coral. Mahogany and yellow-tail snappers, goat-fish, and French grunts are usually seen. A staff favorite


Depth: 18-24 m
Great for: Intermediate

Lady of Lucaya

Next to the mooring is a large swim through which is sometimes filled with silversides, especially during the summer months. Just east of the mooring on the other side of the opening is a winged statue that guards the entrance of the swim-through.


Depth: 14 m
Great for: Intermediate

Tiger Beach Diving

As you can see from the name, this is one of the most unique dive sites in the world where you have the chance to watch Tiger Sharks swimming around in their natural habitat. You can also see here nurse sharks along with lemon sharks. In addition to sharks on this dive site other you can always see large representatives of the underwater fauna such as huge groupers and snappers.

(Includes 2 dives, guides, tanks, weights, Lunch, snacks, drinking water, ice, Full equipment, all service charges. (Does not include 10% VAT, diving insurance (obligatory.))

Tiger Beach Trip is a subject to weather conditions. Minimum number of participants is 4 divers,
maximum - 6 divers.

Extra cost: $500/pp
Depth: 6 m
Great for: Intermediate


January 18:
Departure

Today is time to say goodbye (for now).
After breakfast you will transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Safe travels home, and we can’t wait to see you on our next trip!

For your international group* flights, we have secured the following:

American Airlines flight AA5467
Departing FPO at 1:03pm
Arriving CLT at 3:00pm

(layover for 1h 15m)

American Airlines flight AA1573
Departing CLT at 4:15Pm
Arriving CMH at 5:37pm



Safe travels home, and we can’t wait to see you on our next trip!


*PLEASE NOTE: A minimum of 10 guests is required to have group airfare.


 

TRAVEL DETAILS

FLIGHTS*:

January 11:

American Airlines flight AA3667
Departing CMH at 6:30am
Arriving MIA at 9:20am

(layover for 45m)

American Airlines flight AA3453
Departing MIA at 10:05am
Arriving FPO at 11:01am

January 18:

American Airlines flight AA5467
Departing FPO at 1:03pm
Arriving CLT at 3:00pm

(layover for 1h 15m)

American Airlines flight AA1573
Departing CLT at 4:15Pm
Arriving CMH at 5:37pm

*PLEASE NOTE: A minimum of 10 guests is required to have group airfare.

TRANSPORT:

ARRIVAL Transfer
January 11

DEPARTURE Transfer
January 18

HOTEL:

Freeport, Bahamas
January 11-18, 2025

Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham
All-inclusive Resort

Superior Garden View Room


Room Types:

Included:
Superior Garden View Room

Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the perfect place to relax in following an intense, energy-charged day. These recently-renovated rooms reflect a contemporary design which sets one free of their worries as they enjoy relaxation-full nights.

One King-size bed or two Queen-size beds

Upgrade:
Superior Ocean View Room

Awaken every morning to a breathtaking view and set your senses free in a wonderful setting for a vacation. Our comfortable accommodations will provide you refuge after a day bursting with action.

One King-size bed or two Queen-size beds
(Based on availability)

Extra cost:
Single: +$146
Double: +$88
Triple: +$79


REGISTRATION FORM

PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.

(Please submit one registration form per person)


Pricing details

price Per Person: 

Superior Garden View (DIVER RATES)

Triple Occupancy: $2,913

Double Occupancy: $2,986

Single Occupancy: $3,765

Superior Garden View (Non-DIVER RATES)

Triple Occupancy: $2,333

Double Occupancy: $2,406

Single Occupancy: $3,185

Superior Ocean View (DIVER RATES)

Triple Occupancy: $2,992

Double Occupancy: $3,074

Single Occupancy: $3,911

Superior Ocean View (Non-DIVER RATES)

Triple Occupancy: $2,412

Double Occupancy: $2,494

Single Occupancy: $3,331

*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable. If you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

Payments can be made by a credit card which includes a 3% processing fee or by check dropped off to the front desk of the dive shop or mailed directly to the shop.

INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE

  • International Airfare

  • Ground Transportation

    • Arrival and Departure from the airport to the hotel

  • All-Inclusive Hotel accommodation

  • All diving included in itinerary above

    • 5 days of 2 daily boat dives

  • Most taxes and fees

    • Deposits, Service fees and commissions (NON REFUNDABLE)

NOT INCLUDED

  • 3% processing fee per payment (if paying w/credit card)

  • Local taxis

  • Rental dive gear

  • Nitrox

  • Gratuities

  • Optional Travel Insurance *DUE AT TIME OF BOOKING- PLEASE REVIEW THE DETAILS OF EACH PLAN THOROUGHLY

    The final price will be on your invoice, please note that the price below is an average price.

    • Worldwide Trip Protector EdgeBasic’

      • Please Note: This plan does NOT include epidemic or pandemic-related illness, individually-ordered quarantine, and denied boarding.

    • Worldwide Trip Protector ‘Premium’

      • Please Note: Under certain conditions, covered reasons for some benefits of this plan include epidemic or pandemic-related illness, individually-ordered quarantine, and denied boarding.

    • Other insurance options are available, if you have questions or want more coverage options, please let us know at time of booking.

 

SUGGESTED PAYMENT SCHEDULE

There are three payment options available to you. 
*Payment schedule does not include insurance costs. Insurance is due with initial payment. 

Option 1: Full Payment
(Most affordable overall)
Full payment (plus insurance)- due upon receipt.

*Please keep in mind, a 3% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

Option 2: Two Payments
One payment will be due immediately and the second payment will be due no later than 100 days prior to your trip.

(There will be a one time $50 fee per person, for this delayed payment option)
NOTE: Not all insurance policy will allow you to purchase coverage after the initial deposit. It is illegal to purchase insurance with the knowledge and intent that you will be changing or canceling your trip.)

*Please keep in mind, a 3% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

TWO-PAYMENT PLAN:

(price per person)
Due now: $250 + Insurance (suggested)
90 days prior: Remainder due

 

Option 3: Monthly Payments
Payments will be split into the remaining months prior to your trip (ending at 100 days prior to departure)

(There will be a one time $50 fee per person, for this delayed payment option)
*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee may be charged at time of paymentif choosing to pay with a credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

Split amount due into monthly payments.

  • The first payment must be a minimum of $250 + insurance (per person), due upon receipt.

  • The remaining payments will be divided by the months- with final payment due 100 days prior to your trip.

REGISTRATION 

  • A completed registration form (one per person)

    • If you have more than 1 person from the same household going on this trip, please fill out multiple forms.

 

FINAL PAYMENT

  • Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.

  • Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.

  • Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.

 

CANCELLATION

Cancellation in writing must be received by Aquatic Adventures 90 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the package cost minus the following fees:

  • Deposits, Commissions and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Please note that we must abide by the vendor cancellation policies which state:

Cancellations within 30 days prior arrival will pay 50% penalty of total rate. There will be NO cash refunds in any instance; all cancellations refund will be made through credit notes valid for future reservations to Mayan Princess within 6 months.

 

F.A.Q.

WHAT TIME IS THE CHECK IN AT THE hotel?

Check in at your resort will not be until 3pm at the earliest.

  • If you arrive early, or your room is not yet ready for you to check in when you arrive, you may be able to leave your bags with the front desk and they will keep them securely held behind the desk while explore the property, eat, relax at the beach or get in a snorkel until your room is ready.

What if I need a roommate? 

If you would like to have a roommate but don't not have one identified yet, then we will initially only charge the double occupancy rate. Aquatic Adventures Ohio will work to find you a roommate; however, if a roommate cannot be found then you are responsible for paying the single occupancy rate.

Are meals INCLUDED?

Yes!

Breakfast, lunch and buffet dinner are included daily

Do I have to be certified to go SCUBA diving?

Yes, an Open Water Certification is required to go SCUBA diving.

If you haven’t gotten certified yet, you don’t know what you’re missing!
You can do your classroom work before your trip and then do your checkout dives on vacation!

Can I go diving just a few times? Or do I have to dive every day?

The first rule of diving (well, one of the first rules) is to call a dive if you aren’t comfortable. This means that if you have signed up to go diving one day and you don’t feel comfortable, please don’t get in the water.
That said, this is a personal choice and not one that will result in a refund of money.

If you want to go diving, but don’t want to participate in the active dive schedule we have included, we can arrange a separate dive for you, as often as you’d like!

What are the water temps in Grand Bahamas in January?

In this month, the water temperatures typically range from 71°F to 75°F (22°C to 24°C).

These mild temperatures provide a comfortable environment for divers, allowing for extended periods of exploration without the need for heavy thermal protection.
Despite being one of the cooler months, January still offers a pleasant diving experience, making it a popular time for visitors seeking to escape colder climates elsewhere.

Can I rent dive gear?

Yes!
Equipment rental is per day. 10% VAT to be added on top. Payment for the equipment has to be made onsite at the resort/local dive shop.

  • Mask: $6

  • Fins: $6

  • Wetsuit: $10

  • Torch: $10

  • Regulator: $12

  • BCD: $12

  • Full Equipment for a single dive: $20

  • Full Equipment per day (without torch): $40


Can I pay by Zelle?

No. The dive shop does not accept Zelle. You can make your payment by credit card which includes a 3% processing fee.

Can I pay by check?

Yes!

If you would like to avoid the 3% processing fee, you may pay by check. You can drop this off at the front desk of the dive shop or by mailing this directly to the dive shop.


Dive Insurance

Aquatic Adventures of Ohio requires all divers to have some level of dive insurance to travel on all trips. At minimum, you must have hyperbaric recompression chamber coverage- this may be covered by your current insurance, but if not… you’ll need supplemental dive accident insurance.

NOTE: A DAN membership is separate from DAN insurance.

If you don’t have dive insurance yet, check out the link below for plan options.


Proof of dive insurance will be required prior to departure. If no dive insurance has been purchased/proof provided, AAO reserves the right to cancel your reservation without refund.


Travel Insurance

TRAVEL INSURANCE - AVAILABLE FOR ALL USA CITIZENS - DUE WITH INITIAL PAYMENT

Zone Travel LLC strongly suggests purchasing Trip Cancellation insurance. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider as most U.S. medical coverage will not cover you outside of the country.

Insurance costs are based on the total package cost, including air taxes and charges listed under "Included."

Approximate amounts can be given at time of reservation in order to purchase the appropriate amount of insurance.

EDGE PLAN:
(BASIC PROTECTION)

Extensive coverage for everyone; designed with families in mind.

  • Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 14 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)

  • Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption

  • Trip Delay and Missed Tour or Cruise Connection coverage

  • Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection

  • Medical and Evacuation coverage 



 

WORLDWIDE TRIP PROTECTOR:
(PREMIUM PROTECTION)

Extensive coverage for everyone; designed with families in mind.

  • Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 21 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)

  • Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption

  • Trip Delay and Missed Tour or Cruise Connection coverage

  • Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection

  • Medical and Evacuation coverage