THIS TRIP IS for confident open water (or aow+) divers with excellent BUOYANCY.

this will be a fast paced event focused on transplanting corals.
While photography/videography is allowed, it is not recommended if it takes away from the task at hand.

Here’s a look back at how impactful this event has been and why we are eager to participate this year!

Plus, by participating in Coralpalooza, you’ll receive:

• Limited Edition Coralpalooza 2023 T-Shirt

• Coralpalooza 2023 Swag bag

• Ticket to the Coralpalooza 2023 Party 

Ideally situated next to Key Largo Resorts Marina, the hotel places you in the perfect position to experience the endless Florida Keys fun.

Complete with every perk from on-site dining and a poolside Tiki Bar to two heated, outdoor pools and a 24-hour Fitness Center, the accommodations at the Florida Keys hotel ensure a memorable travel experience. It's an island paradise from the moment you arrive.

Guest rooms at the hotel offer modern amenities, including free wired and wireless Internet, flat-screen TVs with HBO, and mini-refrigerators, with perks like triple-sheeted bedding. Stay connected or simply enjoy a comfortable escape, at one of the most welcoming Key Largo resorts.

Key Largo has everything you need to make your vacation unforgettable. Spend your days oceanside beneath the Florida sun. Take a snorkeling and scuba diving adventure or a romantic sunset cruise, all just minutes away from one of the top Key Largo Resorts. Spend the day at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or get even closer to marine life by swimming with the dolphins at Dolphin Plus. There are so many things to do in Key Largo.

On June 10th, CoralpaloozaTM includes a day land event for non- SCUBA divers and an in-water event for SCUBA divers. All participating divers must register in advance. All registered "dive" participants receive an event t-shirt, a swag bag, boat seat reservation and a ticket to the evening celebration event (an over $150 value!).

Divers MUST:
*Have been diving in the past two years, or a SCUBA refresher is required
*Be over 12 years in age
*Minor divers must be accompanied by an adult in the same activity *Attend a training orientation, dates to be conrmed after registration

PLEASE SEE FAQ SECTION BELOW FOR MORE DETAILS

TRAVEL DETAILS

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.

REGISTRATION FORM

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

(Please submit one registration form per household -max 4 people per registration form)

Check out our Facebook event page for this trip!

If you’d like to interact with the trip leads or others traveling on this trip, please check out our FB Event page.

We also encourage posting questions, comments or suggestions on some of your favorite dives or dive related topics relating to the trip!

F.A.Q.

How does Coralpalooza work?

Coralpalooza is considered a full day event! Two dives per registrant are coordinated (two tanks and weights included) and boats are scheduled for a full day to allow for all divers to not feel pressured by dive time; departures vary from 7-10AM and return times vary from 2-5PM. Travel times on the vessel will vary from 30 to 60 minutes. Overall, please plan for 4-6 hours on the boat.  

Restoration activities and SCUBA diving are always weather dependent activities. The safety of our divers, both participants and our CRF team, is our ultimate priority. The intention of the day is to return corals to the reef in various quantities up and down the Florida Keys, but this activity may be changed or even cancelled last minute. Should the weather not allow for restoration activities but is deemed safe enough for recreational diving per the dive operators, then activities will be revised. Should a small craft advisory or warning be issued, dive activities may be cancelled entirely in the interest of safety.  

How deep are the dives at coralpalooza?  

Dives may vary from 15-30 ft (5-10m) in depth for restoration activities. Should restoration activities be impacted due to weather and recreational diving occur, dive depths may vary pending the operator’s discretion. 

What will I be doing?  

Restoration activities and SCUBA diving are always weather dependent activities. The safety of our divers, both participants and our CRF team, is our ultimate priority. The intention of the day is to return corals to the reef in various quantities up and down the Florida Keys, but this activity may be changed or even cancelled last minute. Should the weather not allow for restoration activities but is deemed safe enough for recreational diving per the dive operators, then activities will be revised. Should a small craft advisory or warning be issued, dive activities may be cancelled entirely in the interest of safety.  

How long are the dives?  

Times will be given per location and activity! All divers and their buddies must return to the vessel with no less than 500PSI in their tanks. 

​

Can I spend one dive taking pictures?  

We do encourage people to document their experience! However, if returning corals to the reef, then all divers must join in this activity – if we bring 200 corals to the reef, then 200 corals will need to stay on that reef! We can’t bring corals back to land or to the ocean nursery if we don’t “finish”. We’ll thank you in advance to please plan on prioritizing your time to accomplishing the work we plan to do! 

How many dives are included? 

Two dives are coordinated for all registrants. The CRF™ representatives on board coordinating the restoration activities (the “Coral Crew”) may conduct a third dive to finish any remaining restoration work.  

​

How many sites will we visit? 

If returning corals to the reef, then we will spend all the dives at the one site! Should the weather not allow for “outplanting”, then the plan will be altered and sites based on conditions will be selected. 

​

Are they morning or afternoon dives?  

So that restoration work and the dives do not feel rushed, activities are slotted over a 4-6 hour period. Some vessels may be a “morning” or “afternoon” trip but still a minimum 4 hour period. Please plan your travel accordingly.  

Do you provide rental gear? 

Coral Restoration Foundation™ works with local dive operators for the restoration activities and vessel usage. All registrants will be assigned a liaison dive operator once registration closes, and this dive operator can assist with any rental gear.  

How about tanks/weights?  

The dive operator that you are assigned to will provide the tanks and weights! 

How about Nitrox?  

The dive operator that you are assigned to may be able to support your Nitrox request! 

How will I receive training?  

This 2022 year, training will be coordinated remotely through Zoom sessions. Once registration closes, multiple Zoom classes will be offered in the weeks leading up to June 10th. All registered dive and snorkel participants MUST attend a Zoom training or participation will be limited to snorkeling.  

I’ve already done a dive program, do I have to attend training?  

Yes! Coralpalooza™ is such a unique event that being familiar with its programming is necessary!  

Training for Activities 

All registered Coralpalooza™ dive participants must attend a training orientation, which will be provided in-person this year. Attendance is mandatory for participation; people not attending will still be able to join on board on the day of the event but will be redirected to snorkeling.

Celebration Event 

All registered Marathon and Key Largo participants receive access to the Key Largo evening celebration event and land events. Details on these will be available via our website and emails.

Dive Experience & Requirements

If it has been more than 1 year (12 months) since your last open water SCUBA dive, you will need to complete an open water ocean boat dive prior to (not on) June 3rd, 2022. If it has been more than 2 years (24 months) since your last dive, you will be required to complete a refresher course prior to (not on) June 3rd, 2022. 

All participants must be at least 12 years of age to participate as a SCUBA diver or snorkeler and must be independently registered.

CORALPALOOZA Cancellation Policy

Coralpalooza™ is a weather dependant activity. In the case of inclement weather resulting in unsafe diving or restoration conditions, boat activities on June 10th may be cancelled with no alternate date. There is a no refund policy in the case of cancellation.

I don’t have a buddy. What now? 

Not a problem! There are many individuals who have registered. You will be buddied randomly with another individual unless previously indicated on your registration form.  

What should I bring ON THE CORALPALOOZA DIVE DAY? 

• Food & snacks! Since we will be out on the water for 4-6 hours, this may encompass the traditional “lunchtime”. Please plan to bring some food for yourself and group.  

• Water! While there will be water on board the boats, please plan to bring a refillable water container(s), and maybe even some electrolytes to ensure proper hydration. SCUBA diving is a thirsty sport!  

• Please protect your skin and eyes by covering up, using zinc- or titanium-based sunscreen (please NO sunscreen with oxybenzone chemicals; if unsure, then leave it at home!), bringing a hat and wearing sunglasses.  

• While gloves are not required, those with sensitive skin my appreciate having a glove. A basic pair of simple gardening gloves are sufficient.  

• A towel(s) 

• Whatever else you need for a full day on the water!  

WHAT TIME is the check in to the hotel?

Check in at the 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 you go out and eat or explore the resort until your room is ready.

do i need Certifications?

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!

DO I HAVE TO BE CERTIFIED TO GO SNORKELING?

No.
This is a great activity that nearly everyone can participate in!
Although, we do suggest that you be comfortable in the water and able to swim with a lifejacket on.

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 diving conditions like?

In June, swimming is ideal on the beaches around Key Largo! With water reaching 86°F at most and 84°F on average, spending time in the water is very pleasant.

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!)

What dive equipment should I bring?

If you prefer to rent your equipment from Aquatic Adventures, we have all of the equipment that you will need.

• Certification Card

• Diving Log Book (strongly encouraged; required for solo diving course)

• Mask *

• Snorkel *

• Fins *

• Booties (if you wear them)

• Buoyancy Control Device (required) *

• Regulator w/alternate air source *

• Submersible pressure and depth gauges (required) *

• Underwater time piece (required)

• Dive light *

• Safety marker buoy *

• Tank Marker Lights (required for night dives) *

• For solo divers: pony bottle, whistle, knife, compass, and safety marker buoy or flag deployable from safety stop depth *

• Dive computer (recommended) *

• Wetsuit 3 mm *

• Repair kit w/ spare parts

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.

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.

Pricing details

price Per Person: 

DIVER RATES

$995 (QUAD OCCUPANCY)
$1,040 (TRIPLE OCCUPANCY)
$1,210 (DOUBLE OCCUPANCY)
$1,920 (SINGLE OCCUPANCY)

NON-DIVER Rates:

$735 (QUAD OCCUPANCY)
$780 (TRIPLE OCCUPANCY)
$950 (DOUBLE OCCUPANCY)
$1,660 (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

• Accommodation

• All diving mentioned in the itinerary above

• Coralpalooza entree fee

• Tanks, weights and air fills

• Snorkel tour

NOT INCLUDED

• Airfare and airport taxes

• Ground transportation

• Gratuities

• Dive gear rental (other than tanks, weights and weight belts)

• Pre/post hotel stays (including layover stays)

• Incidental charges 

• Meals

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

• Local taxis

• DAN (Divers Alert Network) or any other form of dive insurance

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

  • World Wide Trip Protector Edge ‘Basic’ (average price of $113/pp)

  • World Wide Trip Protector ‘Premium’ (average price of $154/pp)

  • 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 household -max 4 people per registration form)

  • If you have more than 4 people from the same household going on this trip, please fill out multiple forms, as the maximum per form is 4 people.

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 Zone Travel 60 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees:

• Commissions and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Zone Travel LLC and its cooperative destination incur unrecoverable charges preparing for your trip therefore, no refunds if cancellations occur less than 60 days before departure. Cancellations more than 60 days prior to departure are based on individual group bookings per the outlined confirmation document you receive.

We sell a variety of travel related products from different suppliers and service providers ("Suppliers"). Each Supplier has its own terms and condition that are applicable to your particular arrangements in addition to our general terms and conditions, and you should make sure you understand them.

Zone Travel is acting as intermediary or a "Booking Agent" for products and services that are not directly supplied by us (e.g., air carriage and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). We are not a co-vendor of such products and services. You will be entering into a separate contract with such Suppliers in connection with such products and services.

By making payments to Zone Travel for this trip you are agreeing to all Terms and Conditions listed on the Zone Travel website.

Vendor Cancel policy: Each vendor has their own policies, which we have to apply. This information may vary and is listed in full detail on the contract signed for each vendor.

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRAVEL INSURANCE

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