Best Destination for 15 year old son to get certified

[Knockneed Man]

I took my 15 year old to Anthony’s key and it was ideal. We’d gotten him certified prior to that, so this wasn’t his first trip, but was his first intensive trip. The three dives a day was fantastic repetition for him to get it all down, and he didn’t get tired of the diving at all. Anthony’s was top notch… would love to go back. Would be a great trip for yall.

 

[MB NZ]

Surely the most important variable in getting a 15 year old (or anyone) certified is the instructor? I understand that the certification will be part of a holiday, but that's where my focus would be.

 

[TeeSpeed]

Certified in Grand Cayman huh? Were you on the west end? Try the east end for a more relaxed, uncrowded feel. Several great dive operations down there too.

Well this was 40 years ago, and I was certified at Eden Rock. It was way less crowded then. When I most recently went back in 2019 I was shocked at how much more developed it had become, though I had heard. The reefs seem to have taken some damage/wear&tear too. Absolutely loved getting certified there and subsequent dives there in the 90s. Suppose I'm trying to recreate that experience somewhat though I understand everyone's experience will be different.

In terms of an UPDATE, I think we've narrowed it down to Buddy Dive in Bonaire and Anthony's Key on Roatan. Brac was overall just more expensive and less flexible. But if he takes to it like I think he will we will slate it for a future trip.

 

[wizbangdoodle]

Well this was 40 years ago, and I was certified at Eden Rock. It was way less crowded then. When I most recently went back in 2019 I was shocked at how much more developed it had become, though I had heard. The reefs seem to have taken some damage/wear&tear too. Absolutely loved getting certified there and subsequent dives there in the 90s. Suppose I'm trying to recreate that experience somewhat though I understand everyone's experience will be different.

In terms of an UPDATE, I think we've narrowed it down to Buddy Dive in Bonaire and Anthony's Key on Roatan. Brac was overall just more expensive and less flexible. But if he takes to it like I think he will we will slate it for a future trip.

Yeah, 40 years ago Eden Rock was quiet and uncrowded.

It's great you're getting him certified. 4 of my 5 kids are certified and now my grandkids have expressed interest. Hopefully soon they will do it.

 

[tursiops]

flights look a little problematic...more expensive and most of the flights seem to require an overnight (?)

I see lots of affordable flights in July Sat-Sat from Memphis to Bonaire. Same day departure-arrival both directions. Its AA through MIA and Delta thru ATL.