Packing and Travel, Resort Info, and Diving Tips for the ScubaBoard Invasion 2025 to Belize

[ROXANNE]

Packing and Travel, Resort Info, and Diving Tips
for the ScubaBoard Invasion 2025 to Belize

Well, we are getting closer to the SB Invasion 2025 to Belize!!!!!
I thought I'd share some ideas on preparing for our adventure.
If you have great tips to share with the Crew, add them to the thread below.


I'll continue to update and add new info to these
posts as we get closer to the event.
Any updated info will be added in GREEN to these 1st initial 5 posts.
So you won't need to search for changing information!
I’ll get things started… Here are some of my tips and info.
​

General Information

Anytime you are traveling outside of your normal area, it's good to check
CDC Destinations/Travelers' Health Info
STEP Program for US Citizens - Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
I recommend consulting with your doctor anytime before leaving the country.

Make a Travel Checklist. I've created a master packing checklist for myself and print it out for each trip. This helps save time, and you don't need to remember what's needed each time. My master list includes everything that might be needed for a trip. Anything that doesn't apply to this specific trip, I just cross it off. I also include practical to do things like stopping the mail, contacting your cell provider if you want service there, and alerting the credit card companies to inform them that you will be out of the country so they don't cut you off in mid-trip.
It's also good to start planning early, in case anything needs to be serviced or repaired before you go.

DON'T FORGET These Items when Packing!
Airline tickets/info for going and returning flights. - (I usually print a copy to have on hand, just in case.)

Travel Vouchers for the Resort and Diving Reservations - All vouchers will be sent out from Maduro Dive at least 2 weeks before travel. (I usually print a copy to have on hand, just in case.)

Passports - (I also make a copy of it and put it in my carry-on)

Driver’s License - If you don’t have one, then another form of picture ID.

Diving Certification Cards or E-Cards - (I also make a copy of it and put it in my carry-on)

DAN, Diving, and Health Insurance Cards - (I also make a copy of it and put it in my carry-on)

ScubaBoard Waiver - All waivers will be emailed out soon for e-signatures.

Credit Cards or ATM Cards - Keep in mind, some CC companies charge an extra fee for transactions when out of the country. One Belize dollar = 50 cents US. Visit www.xe.com for current rates for those traveling other than from the US.

Cash - American dollars are accepted. Small Bills (1s, 5s, 10s, and 20s go a long way).

Prescription Medication (always travel with prescription medication in the bottle it came in with your name on it). It's also good to bring a few days' supply in case you have travel delays along the way.

Over-the-counter medications and first aid items that you may need.
Please keep in mind, that we are on an island and many items are not readily available.
Especially allergy medication, if you have ever had an allergic reaction. I have a med pack for traveling with items such as bandages, sports wraps, Benadryl, Imodium, decongestants, Advil, bug bite cream, etc.

N95 masks and hand sanitizer

Refillable Water Bottles for each person in your party. Water from the faucets is not drinkable or suitable for brushing your teeth. The resort provides water dispensers throughout the property with safe drinking water.

Sunscreen - (Try to use products if possible for the coral reefs' health)
I found this wonderful line of reef-safe products Stream2Sea | EcoConscious & Biodegradable Sunscreen.

Sunglasses and an extra cheap pair for the boat (polarized are better for gazing into the water)

Hats

Bug repellent - Near sunset and sunrise are the worst times for mosquitoes and other biting insects, such as no-see-ums, which can be prevalent at the resort. Here are a few products. Always remember not to leave your room or balcony door open, or you may invite them into your room.
FYI Gardeners Tip, Did you know that if you put liquid soap on a bite right away, leave it on, and don't rub or scratch it, it will alleviate the itch and swelling? I use Dawn soap all the time, and it works great! I pack a small bottle to take on trips, too!

Personal flashlight - A small personal flashlight can assist in walking back to your room at night and at other times when needed.

Woolite or those all-in-one washer sheets - Wonderful to have if you plan on washing the funk off your clothes or dive wear in the sink/tub. Don't forget some clothespins, clips, and lightweight rope, too. They help when hanging items up for drying and to keep them from blowing off the balconies.

A light jacket - Great for the plane as well. (Many airports and airplanes can be very chilly.)

Travel between the Airport, the Marina, and the Hotel is included. The details will be included in your trip vouchers from Maduro Dive.

If you suffer from motion or sea sickness, I find it's better to start medication the day before travel to get it into your system so it works better for you.

Travel tip - I suggest drinking only bottled or can drinks when outside the resort and wiping any moisture from the tops to avoid any health issues. I also like to avoid ice and frozen drinks when outside the resort. You should always be conscious of what you are eating and drinking when travelling and outside of your normal routine and country.

Belize is on Central Standard Time (CST), two hours behind Eastern Standard Time with Daylight Saving, and 1 hour ahead of Pacific Daylight Time (PDT).

 

[ROXANNE]

Airline Travel Tips
Please keep in mind, these are recommendations. The Airline you're using has the final say, and you should always check with your airline.

Due to current delays and security measures, you'll need to allow more time for check-in, security screening, and boarding flights. Please check with your airline before departure for the latest recommended arrival times and security guidelines.

U.S. citizens are required to have a valid U.S. passport which needs to be valid for three months after your arrival date. Please check for your country's requirements if a non-US Citizen.
I recommended you have a government-issued picture ID along with your passport available at all times, as well as a printed itinerary if you're using an electronic ticket.

Recommendations for items to pack in your PERSONAL ITEM
IDs, Credit Cards, Cash, etc.
Travel Papers
Prescription Medication
Prescription Glasses/Contacts
N95 Masks & Hand Sanitizer
Jewelry/Watches

TAKE CARE WITH PACKING ITEMS THAT YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO LOSE
Important items you couldn't do without, such as prescriptions, contacts/glasses, IDs, Credit Cards, Cash, N95 Masks, etc., pack in your personal item or on your person. Do not pack these items in your carry-on. Sometimes a carry-on will be moved to checked luggage if they run out of room in the cabin. You don't want to be without those important items if your carry-on is lost or misplaced by the airlines.

Recommendations for items to pack in your CARRY-ON
Any Cameras/Phones/Electronics/Housings
Dive Computers
Prescription Diving Mask
Dive Regulators
Rechargeable batteries in individual cases or bags (batteries should not be loose)
Dive lights (take batteries out and place rechargeable lights in locked mode.)
All Airline Regulations say that all batteries and items with batteries must be in your carry-on or personal item, not in checked luggage.

Check with your Airline for specific rules as to what's accepted, size and weight limits for luggage, and procedure for checking in, as these seem to be changing constantly. For anything in question or liquid form, check with your airline.

Making the most of the luggage weight restrictions and packing
(Don't forget, Men and Women are usually allowed to have a personal item such as a purse/backpack/briefcase/man purse in addition to their carry-on, make the most of it!)

I have a large purse that I use just for flying. The personal item is usually not weighed, so it's great for a few heavier items. Just make sure the items you put in your personal item can be carried on the plane and are not required to be placed in checked luggage. (Again, always check with your airline.)

Think about lightweight items when packing. Inexpensive t-shirts (like Hanes or Fruit of the Loom) are very lightweight, come in multiple colors, are great, and can be left behind if needed. Lightweight dresses, shorts, and tops are great for ladies. Think khakis or other lightweight fabrics over jeans. Also, lighter colors help to deter biting insects like no-see-ums, which are drawn to dark colors.

Shoes can weigh a lot, too. I love slip-on tennis shoes for the airport and traveling. They also help to protect your feet from travel damage, and you'll need a good pair of shoes if exploring the island.

A light jacket goes on the plane with me as well. (Many airports and sometimes the airplanes can be very cold.)

A personal travel hand scale is an invaluable tool. You don't want to have surprises when getting to the airport for your flights.

Put your name, address, and phone number inside all your bags, including your carry-on and personal items, in case they become lost or separated from you.

Put some of each person's items in each checked bag if travelling with family. If one of the bags gets lost or delayed, you still have some of your things.

If you're a solo traveler, try to fit in at least 1 extra pair of undergarments in your carry-on. Outerwear is easier to purchase if needed, but finding undergarments to purchase can be more difficult.

 

[ROXANNE]

Resort Info
Our hosts, Belize Dive Haven Resort Website

The Guest Rooms are equipped with
Free wi-fi
In-room safe
A/C
Balcony
Blow Dryers

Meals -
Breakfast is from 6:30 to 9:00 AM
Lunch 12:00 to 2:30 PM
Dinner 6:00 to 9:00 PM

The Bars are open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Water - Water from the faucets is not drinkable or suitable for brushing your teeth.
The resort provides water dispensers throughout the property with safe drinking water. I would recommend that each person bring a refillable water bottle.

Pools - Enjoy their massive 260-foot swimming pool. Belize Dive Haven is home to two swimming pools for guests to lounge, swim, play, and enjoy. Pool towels are provided in your rooms.

Resort Activity Center - Kayaks and stand-up paddle boards are available.

Spa - services available

Laundry service is available upon request for a fee.

Electricity - U.S. travelers do not typically need a voltage converter in Belize; however, you will require a voltage converter if the voltage exceeds the maximum limit. You will also need a voltage converter if the voltage is far less than devices in your native country.
Converters are only required for devices that are not dual-voltage. Generally, the personal electronics that we use day-to-day (such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, cameras, etc.), are almost always dual voltage and can be used on any power supply without a converter. Converters are only needed with high-powered electronics that can cause a power outage or short a fuse (such as blow dryers, curling irons, rotating fans, boilers, etc)
Pro tip: Check the label – If it states ‘INPUT: 100- 240V, 50/60 Hz,’ it will be functional in any country worldwide.

Kayaks are included and are out on the beach.

Excursions
Sunset cruise is US$150 per person
Reef Fishing is US$600 per day
Fly fishing is US$800 per day.

Belize Dive Haven Tipping Guideline - Tipping is personal; tip what you feel is appropriate for the service the staff provided for the week. Please take care of those who take care of you.

 

[ROXANNE]

Dive Shop, Diving, and Snorkeling Tips
We'll be diving with our hosts, Belize Dive Haven Resort (open from 8 am -5 pm)

Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve is charging a fee for all visitors aged 12 and older to Turneffe Island who either dive, snorkel, or fish. This fee, which we have verified, is payable either at the property or can be purchased in advance through Turneffe Island’s website: Book Entry Tickets | Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve
The required standard fee is either $10 daily or $25 weekly, which allows divers to dive all dive sites in the Marine Reserve except the Wit wreck. The Calabash snorkel trail and nature trail are also excluded. There are also voluntary, not required, contribution options of $50 daily or $100 weekly to allow access to the Wit Wreck, Calabash snorkel, and nature trail.
Since the fee can be paid directly at the resort, we recommend that ScubaBoard members look over the choices on the Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve website, but pay when you are at the property. If you want to pre-book, that option is available. The Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve fee is separate from the Marine Park fee if you dive the Blue Hole.

Diving/Snorkeling Waiver - Coming Soon!

Here are a few links you might be interested in.
Turneffe Atoll Dive Sites Map
Best Dive Sites
Turneffe Atoll Maps
Learn more about Turneffe Atoll
Fish and Wildlife Guide
The Great Blue Hole Video

ScubaBoard Dive Teams and Boat Rotations - Coming soon!

Dive Shop - Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Boat Dive Times
Dive times are at 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 2:30 PM.
In the event of a 2-tank dive, the boat leaves at 8:00 AM and returns for lunch. This is determined by weather and dive site location distance.

Gear Care - The Belize Dive Haven Dive Staff will be responsible for taking care of your gear after diving. How nice is that!

Night Boat Dive - One is included in your package!

Tanks, weights, and weight belts are included.

Don't forget, Shearwater will be attending and bringing Computers for Crew Members to Demo throughout the week.

Bring your own container (a water bottle or cup) for the boats. A water cooler, towels, and cookies will be available on the boats.

Gloves - are not permitted.

Camera care A lightweight cooler bag is a great way to carry and protect those bigger underwater cameras and the smaller ones on the boats! They give the camera some protection and are easy to fold up for packing, lightweight, and rinse out easily. I have also found the little neoprene drawstring bags with clips are great for protecting your GoPros on the poles or trays.

Hair care I use Scuba Do Rags to keep my hair under control. If I don't keep my hair braided and covered like that, it would be shredded after multiple dives. I also like to put some biodegradable conditioner in it while dry before covering it. I use Stream2Sea | EcoConscious & Biodegradable Sunscreen leave-in conditioner, it's the bomb! It's also great to use after diving as well. Some kind of covering is great for gals with shorter hair and guys to keep their heads from getting sunburned too. Unless you're bald, it's hard to apply sunscreen on your scalp.

Skin or Wetsuits? Warm tropical weather is the norm.
Water temperatures in June are 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The visibility ranges from 50' to 200'. For me, a skin works well, but if you're one of those divers who are on the cold side or planning on doing a lot of diving, you might want to bring a lava core or your 3- 5 ml. wetsuit as you.

TIPPING GUIDELINES - Tipping is personal, but please take care of those who take care of you.
Cash only.

Other Diving Tips
This is a good time to get your gear serviced! If it's new or has been serviced, you might want to get in a pool session/dive in and make sure it works. This also allows for plenty of time if the gear needs to be repaired.

It's good to include a spare battery for your computer.

A small waterproof bag for the boat and pool comes in handy for keeping things dry.

To protect your feet from getting blisters and take a beating while diving for multiple days, wear thin socks. They also help your feet slip into your skin or wetsuit!

To help keep areas that get easily chaffed or irritated protected. There are many body friction products available to help with any areas that take a beating after being water-logged for the day. Powder can be helpful as well.

Bring a thumb drive to share photos with friends.

Stream2Sea has donated a bottle of their fabulous mask defog for each Crew member!

I found this article and thought it might have some helpful tips for your ears and diving.
Ear Clearing 101

Dehydration can kick you in the butt and take you down.
I want to remind everyone of the importance of getting Hydrated before
and staying Hydrated during the Invasion.
(beer and cocktails don't count)
It will be very hot and humid in Belize, especially for the northern folks.

Drinking small amounts continually during the day works well
to help your body retain the liquids better.
And remember, if you're planning on drinking alcohol after diving,
drink some water in between drinks to help with the adverse effects of drinking and dehydration.
Have fun, but play it smart and safe.​

 

[ROXANNE]

ScubaBoard Invasion Crew Events for the week!

SB Welcome Party - Saturday, June 14th (time and place to be announced soon)
Meet and greet your Crewmates for fun and prizes. Don't miss it!

SB Farewell Party - Friday, June 20th (time and place to be announced soon)

SB Group Pictures (time and place to be announced soon)
Please wear or bring your ScubaBoard Shirt with you.

Don't miss out!

 

[ROXANNE]

If you have any questions or would like to share a great tip with the group, please post in this thread so all the info will be in one place.

 

[Curious_George]

Hey @ROXANNE, I have a few questions. Apologies in advance if these are answered elsewhere.

Which marine park ticket are we required to purchase?

Are there alternate activities or dive options for anyone not joining in the blue hole day trip?

Is any shore diving allowed? What about a checkout dive upon arrival? Any chance to add more dives vs just what’s in the package?

Is there a final deadline for people who’ve not yet signed up?

Any unique or special requirements/expectations for arrival customs/immigration at BZE?

With the crews being a firm count of 6 people, does that mean we are on small boats or multiple groups, or mix of both? Do all boats have shaded areas?

 

[ROXANNE]

Hey @ROXANNE, I have a few questions. Apologies in advance if these are answered elsewhere.

Which marine park ticket are we required to purchase?

Are there alternate activities or dive options for anyone not joining in the blue hole day trip?

Is any shore diving allowed? What about a checkout dive upon arrival? Any chance to add more dives vs just what’s in the package?

Is there a final deadline for people who’ve not yet signed up?

Any unique or special requirements/expectations for arrival customs/immigration at BZE?

With the crews being a firm count of 6 people, does that mean we are on small boats or multiple groups, or mix of both? Do all boats have shaded areas?

FYI, I added some updates in green to the initial posts.

You will be required to pay the Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve Fee for diving, snorkeling, and fishing. You will only be required to pay the Blue Hole Marine Fee if diving the Blue Hole. You may pay the fees in Belize.

If you're not diving the Blue Hole, you'll be doing a normal day of diving, included in your package of 15 dives. I have also posted excursions in the Resort post above if you want to skip diving on one of your days.

There isn't any shore diving at the resort this time, sorry. Your checkout dive will be the 1st boat dive on Sunday. Once on site, you can see if additional dives are wanted, needed, and available.

An email will be going out later today with the last day to join info. Once it's sent, we'll add it to the package deal post. Update, Friday 4/25/25 @ 5PM EST

Maduro Dive will provide us with that information as we get closer, but looking at Belize Immigration's website, I found this info. I'll clarify with Maduro at the beginning of the week to see what exactly is needed. I'll add the new info then.
For U.S. citizens visiting Belize for 30 days or less:

• Passport: A valid U.S. passport is required.
• Proof of Intent to Depart: Onward or return air tickets are needed.
• Sufficient Funds: Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay is also needed.
• Exit Fee: An exit fee of approximately US$40 cash will need to be paid.

The boat crews and rotations, when posted, will answer those questions. The boats do have some shade, but a hat and sunglasses are recommended.

 

[The Chairman]

Personal flashlight - A small personal flashlight can assist in walking back to your room at night and at other times when needed.

I heartily concur with this item.

 

[ValDiver]

FYI, I added some updates in green to the initial posts.

You will be required to pay the Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve Fee for diving, snorkeling, and fishing. You will only be required to pay the Blue Hole Marine Fee if diving the Blue Hole. You may pay the fees in Belize.

If you're not diving the Blue Hole, you'll be doing a normal day of diving, included in your package of 15 dives. I have also posted excursions in the Resort post above if you want to skip diving on one of your days.

There isn't any shore diving at the resort this time, sorry. Your checkout dive will be the 1st boat dive on Sunday. Once on site, you can see if additional dives are wanted, needed, and available.

An email will be going out later today with the last day to join info. Once it's sent, we'll add it to the package deal post. Update, Friday 4/25/25 @ 5PM EST

Maduro Dive will provide us with that information as we get closer, but looking at Belize Immigration's website, I found this info. I'll clarify with Maduro at the beginning of the week to see what exactly is needed. I'll add the new info then.
For U.S. citizens visiting Belize for 30 days or less:

• Passport: A valid U.S. passport is required.
• Proof of Intent to Depart: Onward or return air tickets are needed.
• Sufficient Funds: Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay is also needed.
• Exit Fee: An exit fee of approximately US$40 cash will need to be paid.

The boat crews and rotations, when posted, will answer those questions. The boats do have some shade, but a hat and sunglasses are recommended.

I'm bummed to hear that there is no shore diving available. That is normally one of the great perks of staying at a dive resort.