BELIZE &
THE BLUE HOLE

December 7-14, 2024

(all airfare is included from CMH)

This trip is full, but we have a waitlist available!

 

Optional forms

The forms below will be required at check in, but if you’d like to fill them out in advance, you can print them off and bring them with you!

 

Double Diver pkg: $2,894/pp

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

This package includes
-International and domestic airfare
-Resort accommodations
-Taxes
-Breakfast daily
-6 days of 3-tank dives
-Night diving
-Blue Hole day
-Northern Turneffe Day
...and more!

(THAT’S 19 DIVES INCLUDED IN THIS TRIP, PLUS ALL AIRFARE!)


THIS TRIP IS GREAT FOR divers of all experience levels (as well as non-divers)!

Newer divers will enjoy the clear and calm waters while
experienced divers can visit more challenging sites.

Belize truly offers a welcoming and safe environment for anyone
looking to plunge into the world of scuba diving.



December 7: Arrival Belize

Today you will fly into Belize (Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE)).

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

United flight UA2205
Departing CMH at 6:45am
Arriving IAH at 8:30am

(layover for 1h 13m)

United flight UA1408
Departing IAH at 9:43am
Arriving BZE at 12:16pm

Here you will board a short (prop plane) flight to San Pedro (included in the package price).

Tropic Air flight 9N080
Departing BZE at 2:40PM
Arriving SPR at 2:54PM

Once you’ve arrived in San Pedro (on Ambergris Caye), a representative from Ramon’s Village Resort will meet you and take you to your accommodations.

After check in, the rest of the afternoon is free to spend at leisure.
(Your first dive will be tomorrow at 9am)

BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE

UNITED AIRLINES: no checked bags included.

  • 1st bag: $40

  • 2nd bag: $50

  • Carry-on (40lbs): Free

  • 1 Personal Item: Free

You can bring one carry-on bag (max 40lbs) and one personal item for free.

Carry-on: 40lbs max
Your bag must fit in the overhead bin, so it must be 9 in x 14 in x 22 in (23 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm). When measuring include the handle and wheels.

Personal Item:
Must fit under the seat in front of you, so they must be 9 in x 10 in x 17 in (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm). Common items include purses and backpacks.

TROPIC AIR: Two (2) checked bags + Personal Item (15lbs or 6.8kgs)

Checked Bags (2x 50lbs): FREE

  • Shall not exceed 50lbs (22.6kg) in individual weight

  • Shall be limited in height to 30 inches (76cm), limited in width to 18 inches (46cm), and limited in depth to 13.5 inches (34cm).

Additional bags are USD$35 each for international flights exceeding 50lbs (22.6kg) shall be considered overweight and be charged an additional USD$35 per bag on international flights. This overweight fee is in addition to any additional bag fees that may apply.

Personal Item (15lbs): FREE

  • Examples of allowable personal items are bags such as a:

    • Purse

    • Laptop bag

    • Backpack

    • Tote

  • Due to limited cabin space, all personal items cannot exceed 15lbs (6.8kgs) in individual weight

  • Dimensional size of 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm). Personal items must fit on your lap.

  • Plane­-Side check­in is not permitted.


Steve and Becky's at Ramon’s Village Resort

British Colonial cottages

December 7-14, 2024

Situated just across the street from Ramon’s Village is our sister property Steve & Becky’s. This lushly landscaped property is set in a breathtaking garden of hibiscus, crotons, orchids and flamboyant, located just steps away from its sister property, Ramon’s Village Resort, on Coconut Drive in San Pedro town, on the island of Ambergris Caye, Belize. Steve & Becky’s features ten cottages arranged around a central courtyard with a pool in the center.

In contrast to the palm thatched cabanas at Ramon’s, these cottages are constructed to resemble a British Colonial cottage with brightly painted exteriors. Each room features Saltillo tile floors, mixed Belizean Hardwood ceilings, and private baths with spacious showers and two queen beds which sleep up to four people.

Guests at Steve & Becky’s will check in and out at the Ramon’s Village front desk and enjoy full use of all of the amenities Ramon’s Village has to offer its guests. Not only will you sleep in splendid comfort at Steve & Becky’s, but you’ll be privy to everything Ramon’s Village Resort has to offer including Pineapples On The Beach restaurant, The Tiki Turtle Trading Company, Tropics Al’s Smoothie & Coffee Bar, Ramon’s Village Divers, Ramon’s Beach Spa, Ramon’s Cart Rentals, the best beach in Belize and our stunning lagoon style pool. Steve & Becky’s provides 24-hour security and the convenience of the only tropically Polynesian resort on the island of Ambergris Caye, Belize.

The following Upgrade Options at Ramon’s are based on availability:

 

Scuba Diving

Ramon’s Village Divers is the oldest and most respected dive shop in all of Belize. Rick Sutherland has managed our shop since 1989 and employs only the best of “Belize’s Best” divers to care for our guests. We have been a PADI 5 Star IDC Resort since 2008.

From exploring Jacques Cousteau’s world-famous Blue Hole to the enjoyment of the undersea wonders of Lighthouse Reef Atoll and the Turneffe Atoll, to the incredible beauty of Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the unforgettable heart-pounding adventure of “swimming with the sharks” at Shark Ray Alley, you’ll never see anything like this again.

Ramon’s Village Divers maintains a fleet of four skiffs ranging in size from twenty-eight feet to thirty-four feet. These boats are used for dives along the Belize Barrier Reef in the vicinity of Ambergris Caye and carry up to eight divers plus crew. The close proximity of the Barrier Reef, just over a quarter mile offshore, allows us to choose from thirty or forty named sites within a five to fifteen minute boat ride from our dock. Ramon’s Village Divers offer daily trips at 9:00am, 11:30am and 2:00pm to dive sites along the Belize Barrier Reef adjacent to Ambergris Caye.

Not certified yet?
You've got time!

Aquatic Adventures Ohio has classes going year-round. Open water season in Ohio runs May through October. Now is the perfect time to complete your certification in Ohio so you can enjoy the most diving that Belize has to offer!
Click the link below for more information!


December 7-14

During these days you are able to go on daily dives. Included in this itinerary are:

- 6 days of 3-tank (or more) boat dives to include:

- Blue Hole day of diving

- Turneffe North day of diving

-One night dive

Since the dive sites are within minutes of the resort dock, we will return between dives to exchange scuba tanks and fulfill your surface interval requirement.
This allows our divers to choose any combination of dives each day.

The dive sites offer both the novice and experienced diver incredible dive opportunities.


December 14:
Departure

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

Your flights home from San Pedro to Belize City and back to Columbus, OH are included in this package.

Your short, hopper, flight from San Pedro to Belize City is schedule for this morning.

Tropic Air flight 9N041
Departing SPR at 10:00AM
Arriving BZE at 10:13AM

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

United flight UA1405
Departing BZE at 1:20pm
Arriving IAH at 4pm

(layover for 2h 15m)

United flight UA1881
Departing IAH at 6:15am
Arriving CMH at 9:50pm



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


Dive Sites

We’ll have these sites included in our trip!
(based on weather)

The Blue Hole Dive day

This full day of diving and exploring includes 3 dives, a Continental Breakfast on the Ramon’s Village dock before departing and picnic lunch at Half Moon Caye.

We will depart at 6:00AM and return about 4:30PM.

This requires a minimum of 10 persons or you can pay an additional fee and go with less than the minimum.
Requires a $40US Park Fee. (included)

SNORKELERS WELCOME!
If you aren’t a diver, but would like to come along- please do! There is a $340 supplement to join as a snorkeler to the Blue Hole.

The Blue Hole (included)

This is the granddaddy of them all. When Jacques Cousteau and his team of divers discovered the Blue Hole back in 1971, they invited Ramon Nunez, before he became our legendary host at Ramon’s Village Resort, to be their guide on this historical expedition. If you see Ramon, ask him to tell you about the amazing adventure he had with the one-and-only Jacques Cousteau. Even if you do talk with Ramon, you must still see the Blue Hole for yourself.

Your adventure begins on the dock with a continental breakfast. When your tummy says you’ve had enough to eat, you’ll board the Lady Grace, our 46-foot Newton dive boat. The two and half hour ride to Lighthouse Reef, which is home to the Blue Hole, passes some interesting sights, but it’s also a good time to enjoy some quiet time or make new friends in your party.

Arriving at the Blue Hole shortly before 9 a.m., you’ll spend the first few minutes in awe of this incredible dive site. We’ve been told it’s the best known, most easily recognized and most photographed dive site in the world, and you can experience it.

The Great Blue Hole was formed sometime during one of the ice ages that covered the North American continent several million years ago. At this time it was dry and because of its limestone makeup, stalagmites and stalactites were created drop by drop of limestone rich water. Some of these stalactites are nearly thirty feet long and nearly eight feet in diameter.

The top edge of the Great Blue Hole is nearly 1,000 feet across and is ringed by fringing coral that makes for an excellent snorkeling adventure. The base of this fringing reef gradually slopes at about 40 degrees until at a depth of 50 feet where it suddenly drops into the Great Blue Hole. A sheer, pockmarked wall is the only reference as descent is initiated. Most of the time there will be a slight thermocline felt at around 90 feet and at this point the visibility will become incredible. The stalactites start at a depth of 120 feet and are plainly in view at the 130 foot limit of sport diving.

The Great Blue Hole is not known for its marine life, especially at depth. On occasion, you will see groupers, horse-eye jack, squirrel fish and even schools of Reef Sharks. This really does make for an eerie, almost surreal setting.

Due to the depth, at most, there will be an 8 to 10 minute bottom time which includes the descent. A slow, controlled ascent back up the wall, to a safety stop at the base of the fringing reef makes this dive 20 to 25 minutes total. A truly unique dive site which for many is the dive of a lifetime and for any diver well worth the price of admission.

Half Moon Caye Wall (included)

About 6 miles south of the Great Blue Hole lies your second dive site. Half Moon Caye Wall is one of the most phenomenal sites to dive in all of Belize. We do a Multi Level Dive to a maximum depth of 60 feet with 45 minutes of bottom time. The structure alone makes this a must do dive.

Along a mile to mile and a half section of the wall, there is a towering ridge of reef that is cut through with crevasses that in some places are 150 feet deep. Growths of mountainous star coral, numerous varieties of large sponges, and soft coral growth galore decorate this reef. Along the top edge of the reef, the depth averages between 35 and 40 feet. On the inside of the reef is a vertical drop to white sand that is strewn with garden eels, red hermit crabs, peacock flounders, blue parrot fish, barracuda, and southern rays. The outside edge of the wall plummets straight down to depths exceeding 3,000 feet. Swimming through the cuts in the wall from inside to outside offers chance encounters with tarpon, eagle rays, turtles, Caribbean Reef Sharks and occasionally a solitary manta ray.

Half Moon Caye is a National World Heritage Monument managed by the Belize Audubon Society, a branch of UNESCO, and has a bird sanctuary that is the home of the Red-Footed Booby. After your second dive we go ashore at Halfmoon Caye for lunch and a trip into the interior of the island to view the nesting site of the Booby bird. Views from the observation tower offer some excellent photo opportunities. During the months of March, April and sometimes May, you will see down-covered baby Booby’s in the nest. Large marine iguanas can be encountered on the trek back into the sanctuary. Halfmoon Caye is the only place where the Red-footed Boobies are found.

The Aquarium at Long Caye (included)

Your third dive will take place at The Aquarium near Long Caye. Again we do multilevel dive with a maximum depth of 50 feet for a bottom time of 45 minutes. The wall around the northwest side of Long Caye will start in 15 to 20 feet of water and drop down almost sheer to a slight bump, beyond the limits of sport diving, and then it plunges again into the depths. The crystal-clear, blue water has an abundance of colorful sponges, beautiful deep fan gorgonians and marine life such as Reef Sharks, Dolphins and Turtles.

Your day trip will conclude back on the Ramon’s Village Dock around 4:30 PM; just in time to freshen up and enjoy a dinner at Pineapples on the Beach, which will rival your day’s diving experience.

Northern Turneffe

This trip includes 3 dives, with a picnic lunch on board.

We will depart at 7:00AM and return about 3:30PM.

Requires a minimum of 8 persons or you can pay an additional fee and go with less than the minimum.
Requires a $10US Park Fee. (included)

Note: NO snorkelers can join this day. If someone would like to ride along, they are welcome do this (for an additional fee), but they may have more fun back at the resort enjoying the beach or exploring the city/sites.

Northern Turneffe (included)

One of the greatest aspects of the Turneffe Atoll is that it provides good diving conditions almost 365 days each year. On days when it might be a little too choppy to enjoy diving the Barrier Reef, just ninety minutes away, traveling in mainly protected waters, is the Northern End of the Turneffe Atoll. The Turneffe Atoll is home to over 200 islands.

Being much less famous than the neighboring Lighthouse Atoll, Turneffe, “the Forgotten Atoll”, has some of the most pristine diving to be found anywhere. The many mangrove islands that make up the atoll are a tremendous nursery that nourishes many different species of juvenile marine life until they are large enough to make it on their own. This unique biological situation causes the Turneffe Atoll to have some of the most prolific marine life in Belize.

The northwest side of the Turneffe Atoll boasts some spectacular diving. Sites such as the Mini Elbow, Rendezvouz, Vicente Wall and Elkin’s Bay are samples of sites dived based upon the weather conditions and the group’s experience. Whether shallow dives for certification or wall dives for more experienced divers, our captains select the most appropriate site available each trip. The sites on the northwest side of the atoll average depths on the top of the wall between thirty and fifty feet with wide spur and groove formations and vertical walls dropping in excess of 100 feet before shelving and dropping again into the deep. An abundance of marine life includes schools of Cubera Snapper and a diverse population of grouper including Nassau, Tiger and Yellow fin. The dainty Spotted Drum and the Splendid Toadfish are seen regularly. Search the deep water for Spotted Eagle Rays, the rare Manta Ray, Turtles and Sharks including rare and exciting sightings of Hammerhead Sharks. This side of the Atoll is well protected from easterly and southeasterly winds making for ideal dive conditions on most days.

Dive sites such as JoJo’s Split, Lee Ellen’s Melons, Corona and Grand Bogue, which are on the east side of the Atoll, are available when northerly and northwesterly winds blow in the winter months. The versatility of diving on the Turneffe Atoll is unparalleled. The wall on the east side of the Atoll tends to start a bit deeper in the forty-five to fifty foot range and generally has narrower spur and groove but a sheerer wall face than the west side of the atoll. Sightings of pelagics such as rays, turtles and sharks as well as reef tropical and numerous stands of Yellow Tube Sponges can be seen while diving on the east side of the atoll

Additional Dive sites

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

BARRIER REEF (LOCAL) DIVING

The Belize Barrier Reef, at 186 miles in length is the second largest coral formation in the world. The Barrier Reef is made up of a mixture of hard and soft corals, with the hard corals mainly at deeper depths and the soft corals nearer the surface. Commonly seen are Brain and Staghorn Corals, Sponges, Seafans, Finger and Angular Corals.

Coral formations extending out toward the deep, form what are called Finger Canyons. These Coral Ridges, up to 200 feet in length, commonly consist of Blushing and Mountainous Coral, Mustard Hill and Starlet Coral, Brain and Knobby Brain Coral, Thin Leaf, Lettuce Coral and Sponges. The Canyon Bottoms are typically white sandy slopes. The Coral Finger ridges start at a depth of about forty feet and slope to about eighty feet as they make their way toward the deep water. The Canyon bottoms range from about 60 to 120 feet in depth. These coral fingers provide numerous canyons, tunnels and swim throughs.

The Barrier Reef is home to a wide variety of fish including Cubera and Yellowtail Snapper, Parrot Fish, Butterfly Fish, Blue Tang, and Blue Cromise. Barracuda and Moray Eels are commonly seen as are Green, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles. You’ll see Sting Rays, Eagle Rays, Nurse Sharks and the occasional Caribbean Reef Shark or Manta Ray.

Ramon’s Village Divers maintains a fleet of four skiffs ranging in size from twenty-eight feet to thirty-four feet. These boats are used for dives along the Belize Barrier Reef in the vicinity of Ambergris Caye and carry up to eight divers plus crew. The close proximity of the Barrier Reef, just over a quarter mile offshore, allows us to choose from thirty or forty named sites within a five to fifteen minute boat ride from our dock.   The Miss Gina, our Pro forty-two foot dive boat, carries up to sixteen divers plus crew making it an excellent choice for dive groups diving the barrier reef.

Ramon’s Canyons

This dive site located about ten minutes from Ramon’s Village Divers dock, is one of our divers’ favorite sites, not only because it’s our namesake, but because of its deep and extremely wide canyons and sandy bottoms. A site noted for its large Queen Conch and where you also have a good chance of seeing Spotted Eagle Rays.

Hol Chan Night Dive

Night Dives at Hol Chan offer a completely different experience than diving during the day. The beam of the dive light reveals a myriad of wondrous nocturnal critters such as, Basket Star, Octopus, Seahorse, and Orangeball Corallimorph. Every dive seems to include five or six Southern Stingrays and occasionally a visit from the neighborhood Lemon Shark.

Cypress Tunnels

The Cypress Tunnels site is a spur and groove reef that offers many swim throughs and long tunnels for you to explore. Our favorite begins at sixty feet and descends to about seventy feet over a distance of about one-hundred feet. This swim through is just large enough for divers to pass single file. If you enjoy swim throughs and tunnels, this is a great site. Exploring the grooves and spurs near the mooring line is always a great way to finish your dive. Here you can expect to find plenty of corals such as staghorn, lettuce and boulder coral. In amongst these coral formations, look for the smaller fish like the sailfin and triplefin blennies.

The Pillar Corals

The name pretty well says it. Named after its proliferation of Giant Pillar Coral growth that harbor a wide variety of Snapper, Grouper, Squirrelfish, Bluestriped Grunts and Schoolmasters along with odd shaped swimmers such as Balloon, Porcupine Fish and Spotted Drum.

The Hol Chan Cut

This is probably the most popular site off Ambergris Caye. It is in the middle of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and is a great refresher dive. It is also used often for training dives. Located inside the reef this twenty-eight foot site (if you want to go deeper you’ll need a shovel) is home to large grouper, turtles, moray eels, and schools of fish.

Tackle Box Canyons

Just five minutes away this site is noted for its deep vertical narrow canyons and numerous swim throughs. Watch for Lobster in the recesses. You’ll likely see turtles and nurse sharks and sometimes the Caribbean Reef Shark. Marine life is abundant on the top of these coral ridges.

M&M Caverns

In front of the Mata Channel, about a half mile from Ramon’s Village Divers dock, M&M Caverns may be one of the best dives found off the barrier reef on Ambergris Caye. A very unique dive spot, due to huge coral mountains that grow right out of the sandy ocean floor, the diver can explore many tunnels and caverns. Because of the deep water surrounding these tunnels, there are always schools of Horse-Eye Jacks and a good opportunity to see deep water pelagics cruising the reef. A dive not to be missed!

Paradise Canyons

Located toward the north end of San Pedro this site allows a wider white sand bottom between the coral ridges. Bright beautiful colors abound and there is an amazing concentration of tropical marine life.


 

TRAVEL DETAILS

FLIGHTS:

NOTE: A valid 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.

December 7:

Columbus, OH (CMH)- Belize City (BZE):
United flight UA2205
Departing CMH at 6:45am
Arriving IAH at 8:30am

(layover for 1h 13m)

United flight UA1408
Departing IAH at 9:43am
Arriving BZE at 12:16pm

After clearing immigration, you will proceed to retrieve your luggage at the baggage claim area. Subsequently, you'll move on to customs, where you may be asked to fill out a customs declaration form and declare any goods you're bringing into the country. (see FAQ section for more details)

Once you've completed the customs process, you are free to continue on to your destination in Belize.

You’ll see the Tropic Air desk right outside of the baggage claim.
Please go to the Tropic Air counter and check in for your next flight to San Pedro.

HOPPER flight (Belize City (BZE)-San Pedro (SPR))
Tropic Air flight 9N080
Departing BZE at 2:40PM
Arriving SPR at 2:54PM

December 14:

HOPPER flight (San Pedro (SPR)-Belize City (BZE))
Tropic Air flight 9N041
Departing SPR at 10:00AM
Arriving BZE at 10:13AM

Belize City (BZE)- Columbus, OH (CMH):
United flight UA1405
Departing BZE at 1:20pm
Arriving IAH at 4pm

(layover for 2h 15m)

Upon arriving at IAH., you will go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Here, you'll be required to complete a Customs Declaration form, which is typically provided during your flight. Present your passport and any necessary travel documents to the customs officer. If you have items to declare, make sure to itemize and report them accurately.
Upon clearance, you can proceed to baggage claim and continue through the airport to your next destination.


United flight UA1881
Departing IAH at 6:15am
Arriving CMH at 9:50pm

TRANSFERS:

Round Trip airport transportation is included.

Once you’ve arrived in San Pedro (on Ambergris Caye), a representative from Ramon’s Village Resort will meet you and take you to your accommodations.

RESORT:

Belize
December 7-14

Steve and Becky’s at Ramon’s Village Resort
(Cottages)

Address:
Ramon's Village Resort
Coconut Drive
San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
Belize


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: 

Rates are based on Steve and Becky’s cottages.
Upgrades are based on availability (pricing is above in the links provided)

DIVER RATES

$2,751 (Quad occupancy)
$2,798 (Triple occupancy)
$2,894 (double occupancy)
$3,671 (single occupancy)

Non-Diver Rates

$1,749 (Quad occupancy)
$1,796 (Triple occupancy)
$1,892 (double occupancy)
$2,668 (single occupancy)

*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

  • Round Trip International flights (CMH-BZE-CMH)

    • Minimum of 10 guests required

  • Round Trip Hopper flight (Propeller Plane) (BZE-SPR-BZE)

  • Round Trip airport transfers

  • Resort accommodation

  • Breakfast daily

  • All diving included in itinerary above

    • 6 days of 3-tank boat dives including:

      • Blue Hole day ($40 park fee is included)

      • Turneffe North dive ($10 park fee is included)

      • One night dive (1 tank)

  • Most taxes and fees

    • Deposits, Service fees and commissions (NON REFUNDABLE)

NOT INCLUDED

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

  • Meals (lunch, dinner, snacks, beverages)

  • 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: Three 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.)

Three-PAYMENT PLAN:

(price per person)
Due now: $250 + Insurance (suggested)
Due 6 months prior: 20% due
100 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 3% processing fee may be charged at time of payment if 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 vary by resort and dive shop.  


F.A.Q.

What is the currency in belize?

The official currency of Belize is the Belize Dollar, abbreviated as BZD.

The Belize Dollar is typically pegged to the United States Dollar at a fixed exchange rate of 2 Belize Dollars to 1 U.S. Dollar.

This stability provides ease for travelers, particularly those coming from the United States. While Belize Dollars are the primary form of currency used throughout the country, U.S. Dollars are widely accepted in many establishments, such as hotels, restaurants, and shops.

It's advisable to carry some Belize Dollars for smaller transactions in local markets or more remote areas, where U.S. currency might not be as readily accepted.

Please note: Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger retail stores. However, as of January 1, 2023, Belize is no longer accepting Discover cards until further notice.

it's always a good idea to carry some cash, particularly in Belize Dollars, for smaller establishments or remote areas where credit card facilities might not be available.

Should I tip in Belize?

Tipping in Belize is customary and appreciated, though it is not always obligatory.

Many hotels include a service charge in your bill. Ramon’s Village does not, so encourages tipping of our employees as you deem appropriate.

In restaurants, a standard tip for good service is around 10% to 15% of the total bill.
Some restaurants may include a service charge, so it's beneficial to check your bill before tipping.

For hotel staff, such as porters and housekeeping, tipping a few dollars is considered polite.

Tour guides and drivers typically receive a tip of about $5 to $10 per day, depending on the length and quality of the service.

While tipping is less common in taxis, rounding up the fare is a courteous gesture.

Do I need an electric converter or adapter in Belize?

No.

Belize uses an electrical system similar to the United States, with a standard voltage of 110-120 volts and a frequency of 60 Hz.
The outlets in Belize typically accommodate Type A and Type B plugs, which are the same two- and three-pronged outlets found in the United States.

Is baggage is included?

UNITED AIRLINES: no checked bags included.

  • 1st bag: $40

  • 2nd bag: $50

  • Carry-on (40lbs): Free

  • 1 Personal Item: Free

You can bring one carry-on bag (max 40lbs) and one personal item for free.

Carry-on: 40lbs max
Your bag must fit in the overhead bin, so it must be 9 in x 14 in x 22 in (23 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm). When measuring include the handle and wheels.

Personal Item:
Must fit under the seat in front of you, so they must be 9 in x 10 in x 17 in (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm). Common items include purses and backpacks.

TROPIC AIR: Two (2) checked bags + Personal Item (15lbs or 6.8kgs)

Checked Bags (2x 50lbs): FREE

  • Shall not exceed 50lbs (22.6kg) in individual weight

  • Shall be limited in height to 30 inches (76cm), limited in width to 18 inches (46cm), and limited in depth to 13.5 inches (34cm).

Additional bags are USD$35 each for international flights exceeding 50lbs (22.6kg) shall be considered overweight and be charged an additional USD$35 per bag on international flights. This overweight fee is in addition to any additional bag fees that may apply.

Personal Item (15lbs): FREE

  • Examples of allowable personal items are bags such as a:

    • Purse

    • Laptop bag

    • Backpack

    • Tote

  • Due to limited cabin space, all personal items cannot exceed 15lbs (6.8kgs) in individual weight

  • Dimensional size of 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm). Personal items must fit on your lap.

  • Plane­-Side check­in is not permitted.

Do I need to declare anything at the airport in Belize?

You are required to declare all items that exceed the duty-free allowance, which typically includes goods valued over U.S. $500.

Personal items such as clothing, jewelry, and toiletries are generally exempt from declaration if they are for personal use.

If you are carrying any gifts, electronics, or commercial goods, be sure to declare them upon arrival.

Additionally, travelers should declare if they are carrying more than U.S. $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments.

Failure to declare restricted items or currency can result in penalties, so it's crucial to be transparent and accurate on the customs declaration form provided upon arrival.

What about my SCUBA gear?

Scuba divers traveling to Belize should be mindful of the items they need to declare at the airport to avoid any complications.

While personal diving equipment such as wetsuits, masks, fins, and tanks are generally considered personal goods and may not require declaration, any intention to sell such items in Belize must be declared.

Additionally, if divers are carrying items such as underwater cameras, dive computers, or other specialized electronic equipment that exceed the duty-free allowance of U.S. $500, these must be declared upon arrival.

NOTE: If you are declaring items on your entrance forms, please bear in mind, that the customary fee (duty charged) is usually 35-37% of the value you claim on your entrance paperwork.  If custom officials dispute your valuation, they will look up in their books what the government has indicated as a value on this item and you will be charged accordingly. 
Most visitors coming to Belize for vacation, will not have items to declare.

What is the address for Ramon’s for the Immigration forms?

Wwhen entering Belize, you will typically need to provide the address of your accommodation as part of the immigration process. This information is required to complete your arrival card, which is presented to the immigration officer upon arrival at the port of entry. Having the address of your stay readily available helps facilitate a swift and smooth immigration experience.

You are staying at Ramon's Village Resort in Belize. You may need to provide the following address:

Ramon's Village Resort

Coconut Drive

San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

Belize

This address is recognized for various travel and immigration-related forms, and it is essential to have it on hand when filling out your necessary documents for your stay in Belize.

Explain the airport transfer from Ramon’s

Ramon's Village will provide pick up and drop off service at the airport in Ambergris Caye as well as the water taxi terminals.

They will try to have our staff waiting for you. However there are 4 pick up points and they are not able to be at all at once. If you don't see a member of the Ramon’s Village staff when you arrive just ask your carrier to let the resort know they have guests waiting and someone will be there in just a few minutes.

Will they handle my luggage for me?

Yes!

From the moment you arrive in San Pedro until the time you depart the beautiful island of Belize, you never have to touch your luggage. The resort will have your arrival schedule and you will be picked up by their shuttle service (it’s a Hummer Limo, island style, so it’s hard to miss) and your luggage will be picked up at the same time and delivered to your room.

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 or SCUBA dive 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 is included daily

Is there a meal plan option?

Yes!
If you would like to add a meal plan to your stay, you can alert the front desk when you arrive and they can add this to your stay on an individual basis. (We cannot add this to the booking in advance.)

Here are the prices (Gratuities are not included):

Breakfast daily- included
(Includes choice of any entrée on Breakfast Menu with coffee and juice.)

Lunch daily- $19.50/pp/day (+12.5%tax)
(Includes any entrée with non-alcoholic beverage.)

Dinner daily- $45/pp/day (+12.5%tax)
(Includes a non alcoholic beverage, soup, salad or appetizer starter, entrée, and dessert.)


Are there restaurants onsite?

Yes!

Pineapples at the Beach

Pineapples On The Beach is our on-site restaurant and is, without question, the best place to eat on the island of Ambergris Caye! Pineapples is not an enclosed, stuffy, run-of-the-mill eatery. The breakfast, lunch and dinner menus all have a wide variety of selections to choose from, in addition to the daily specials.

Tropic Al’s

Enjoy specialty coffee and fresh fruit smoothies at Tropic Al’s! Located poolside at Ramon’s Village, Tropic Al’s offers a dazzling selection of fruit smoothies and gourmet coffee selections that will please even the most discriminating beverage critics.

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!

Is shore diving available?

No.
Shore diving is not an option at Ramon’s Village Resort.

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!
The great thing about this resort, is that they have a house reef! So you don’t have to go far to get some great diving in.

What are the water temps in Belize in December?

In December, the waters of Belize maintain a warm and inviting temperature, typically ranging between 79°F to 81°F (26°C to 27°C). This makes it an ideal destination for scuba divers seeking to explore the rich underwater ecosystem without the need for thick wetsuits, allowing for extended dive times and a comfortable experience amidst the spectacular marine life and coral formations.

A 3mm “shorty” wetsuit is recommended except for rainy days and multiple diving a 3mm "full wetsuit" would be better.

(the local dive shop will have wetsuits available; however, if you prefer to try them on in advance, Aquatic Adventures can assist you with a rental or purchase of a new wetsuit!)

Equipment Rental

BCD: $12.50/day

Regulator: $12.50/day

Mask/Fins/Snorkel: $5 half day/$10 per day

Wetsuit: $12.50/day

Dive Light: $5 night dive/$10 per day

Nitrox: $10/tank

Where is the nearest chamber?

San Pedro is now home to two Hyperbaric Chambers. While most divers will never have need to see the inside of a chamber it is comforting to know that not just one but two are available should the need arise.

Sub Aquatic Services with the support of local dive operators opened the Belize Hyperbaric Facility in 1989. The Chamber is conveniently located on the west side of the San Pedro Airstrip, next door to Captain Sharks Marine Supplies. Several resident doctors oversee the trained technicians on a rotational basis.


are there other things to do (for non-divers)?

Absolutely!

The resort has spa services available and if you prefer to get out and explore, there are TONS of excursions to do including:

Fishing

-Reef fishing w/picnic and snorkel available
-Tarpon/Bone Fishing
-Deep Sea Fishing
-Turneffe Fishing (full day)

Insland tours

-Lamanai Ruins and New River
-Cave Tubing
-Zip Lining
-Xunantinch
-Altun Ha Ruins
-ATM Cave

Island Excursions

-How Chan/Shark and Ray snorkel
-Mexico Rocks Snorkel
-Coral Gardens Snorkel
-Sunset Snorkel
-Beach Picnic and snorkel
-Beach Picnic & Sailing Cruise
-Caye Caulker Sail and Snorkel
-Sunset Sailing Cruise
-Glass Bottom Boat
-Caye Caulker Manatee Experience
-Caye Caulker Full Day Snorkel

Pricing is available upon request and can be added prior to or during your stay.


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