Coral Restoration with SECORE
Where we are diving
Join Dr. Dirk Peterson, Founder and CEO of SECORE International, a global nonprofit organization and leader in innovative coral reef restoration tools and techniques. SECORE integrates science and engineering, refines coral restoration methodologies using coral breeding and creates novel tools that allow for the implementation of large-scale global coral restoration. If you love the ocean and want to see the latest developments to help save this critical ecosystem, this trip is a one-of-a-kind opportunity tailor-made for you!
Just off the coast of Venezuela lies Curacao, a top destination for every level of diver. As the largest of the ABC (Aruba and Bonaire) Islands, Curacao has some of the most diverse reefs in the Caribbean. Scuba Diving Magazine has recognized it as a”Best Overall Caribbean Dive Destination”, and for a good reason. Curacao has over 70 different dive sites to choose from, and divers can enjoy unlimited shore diving. There is always something new to explore in Curacao. And keep your eyes peeled for macro creatures like frogfish, Christmas-tree worms, and flamingo tongue cowries.
We will be diving with Ocean Encounters Curacao. They are Curacao’s premier dive shop that helps make your dive dreams a reality. They know all the best dive sites including Tugboat, Barracuda Point, Booby Trap and Diver’s Leap. Boat diving is their specialty! As you make your giant stride in, you’ll be greeted by vibrant corals and colorful fish.
Another reason divers clamor to Curacao is because the island believes in diving for a purpose. Reef Renewal Curacao is an initiative dedicated to improving coral restoration techniques and innovations. This organization is sponsored by Ocean Encounters Curacao which believes in education, setting an example and making a change. Just like Diventures, they are using their passion and the power of water to impact lives, change the world and also have fun doing it.
Registration closes soon!
Trip Leaders
Sabrina Severin, Ocean Health Education and Conservation Coordinator and Divemaster
Sabrina is a level 5 diver and started diving in 2020. She became passionate about the ocean by watching documentaries with her dad and on family vacations to tropical places. Sabrina received her Master’s degree in Marine Conservation from the University of Miami in 2021. She loves to travel, dive and educate others about the underwater world.
Dr. Dirk Petersen, Founder of SECORE International
Dr. Dirk Petersen is the founder and Executive Director of SECORE International, established as a nonprofit organization in 2015. Since its inception as a program in 2002, Dirk has developed SECORE into an internationally committed and leading institution in the field of research, technology development and the implementation of new restoration methods for coral reefs. SECORE International’s mission is creating and sharing the tools and technologies to sustainably restore coral reefs worldwide.
Top reasons you should travel with us to Curacao!
1. Marine life- You’ll be able to spot lots of fish, turtles and macro creatures.
2. Hands-on coral restoration- You’ll have the chance to learn about the latest restoration techniques and tools that allow for the implementation of global coral restoration.
3. All-inclusive- Not only are all meals and beverages included, but you’ll also have the opportunity to relax by one of the resort’s four pools, enjoy late-night entertainment, and play almost every outdoor game you can think of.
4. Sustainable tourism- Curacao knows how important it is to preserve our natural resources. You can enjoy the vibrant coral and blue waters knowing it will be protected for future generations.
5. Willemstad– Curacao’s capital has been designated as a UNESCO Heritage site for its colorful colonial architecture. Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge and Punda are two must-sees.
Resort Details
Where we are staying
Located directly on the beach, LionsDive Beach Resort is a unique destination for your next vacation. Suites and apartments are surrounded by beautiful gardens as the turquoise water’s edge invites you to swim in our calm cove. Choose between relaxing by our private, shaded beaches or enjoy a swim in our 50-meter, Olympic-sized pool; there are always new activities waiting just around every corner.
Our warm Caribbean hospitality will make sure that all your needs are met during one amazing stay. Enjoy a diving excursion to explore Curaçao’s natural reefs teaming with colorful sealife or take an energy-packed fitness class on the beach while taking in the glow of sunrise.
Learn more about the accommodations from the resort website.
Trip Details
Price
Ground only
Resort View
- Double Diver: $2,060
- Double Non-Diver: $1,410
- Single Diver: $2,870
- Single Non-Diver: $2,220
Ocean View
- Double Diver: $2,160
- Double Non-Diver: $1,520
- Single Diver: $3,090
- Single Non-Diver: $2,440
Ocean Front
- Double Diver: $2,460
- Double Non-Diver: $1,810
- Single Diver: $3,680
- Single Non-Diver: $3,030
Deposit and payments
- 1st deposit: $750 due upon sign up
- Full balance: due November 11, 2022
- Pre-trip meeting: December 11, 2022
Other info
- Prices are based upon double occupancy
- All payments are non-refundable
- Prices are subject to change due to events outside of our control
What’s included
- 7 nights of accommodations at LionsDive Beach Resort
- Airport transfers
- Taxes
- 10 boat dives
- 5 days of unlimited shore diving
What’s not included
- Airfare: Diventures will assist
- Dive insurance (required)
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Recommended courses
- Deep Diving
- Enriched Air Nitrox
- Night Diving
Itinerary
Oct. 1 – Travel day and check-in
Oct. 2 – First day of diving
Oct. 3 – Second day of diving and night dive
Oct. 4 – Night dive and dinner with Dirk
Oct. 5 – 2 tank morning dive and make substrate
Oct. 6 – First half of group go to lab
Oct. 7 – Second half of group go to lab
Oct. 8 – Travel day
What prior travelers say
“We LOVED it! Great resort with great food and service, great trip leaders who were helpful with anything we needed, great dive masters and great dives. I have no complaints, from the ease of Diventures handling all the arrangements, to their service on the trip, all outstanding.”
-Andrea Smithee
Know Before
You Go
COVID-19 – Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Curacao.
Electricity – All electrical connections are 220 Volt/50 Hertz. Adapters can be bought at the Front Desk for $2.
Money – You can use US Dollars everywhere in Curaçao. In stores and restaurants, the exchange rate used is usually 1 USD = 1.75 ANG.
Temperature – 89º air, 85º average water temp in October
Passport – Passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the dates of your trip.
Language – The official languages in Curacao are Dutch, Papiamentu and English, but of those, Papiamentu is used the most on local TV shows, in parliament and on the street.
Dress Code – Curacao’s island vibes are amazingly relaxed – bring whatever! If you feel like dressing up, go for it, but a plain dress is fine wherever you go, even when visiting more up-scale night venues. Anything goes here, just as long as you make sure to pack light, breathable fabrics as the island is pretty hot year-round.
Wi-Fi – High-speed internet is included in your stay.