THIS TRIP IS GREAT FOR MORE EXPERIENCED DIVERs.

The sometimes strong currents between islands and deeper dives
can be difficult for newer/inexperienced divers.

Important information: All incoming passengers must complete and submit the Immigration and Customs ED form which includes a Custom and Border Form at knatravelform.kn

The Caribbean Explorer II liveaboard offers year-round diving at Saba and St. Kitts in the Northern Caribbean. With a blend of comfort and luxury, she caters to 18 guests in 9 staterooms, each with either twin or double beds, private en-suite bathrooms, individually controlled AC, and storage space. Five cabins are located on the lower deck, and 4 cabins are located on the main deck. On the upper deck is a partially enclosed dining room where guests can enjoy gourmet cuisine and amazing views. There is also an air-conditioned salon with an entertainment system. The large sun deck has comfortable loungers for relaxing in between dives.

Dive itineraries aboard the Caribbean Explorer II explore some of the best dive sites in the northern Caribbean. Known for its offshore pinnacles, deep underwater seamounts, finger reefs, recent wrecks, and a variety of coral labyrinths, Saba and St. Kitts have a lot to offer divers underwater. The large dive platform located at the back of the main deck is equipped with individual gear lockers, a large camera table with low-pressure air hoses, recharging stations, tank racks, a bathroom, and separate freshwater rinse baths for dive equipment and cameras.

Every day breakfast, lunch and dinner on board is included.
All (alcoholic) beverages are included.

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 2 people per registration form)

F.A.Q.

Flight recommendations

We suggest departing on March 24th and have an overnight layover in the city best fitted for your itinerary and fly into St. Maarten on March 25th. We suggest the same for your flight out of St. Kitts on April 1st.

The cost of flight tickets with a overnight layover is a great way to save costs and even with a hotel stay this will be more affordable.

* Note: We can assist you with finding the best flight path, layover city and hotel for you.

WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE IN St. maarten?

Make sure you arrive prior to 2pm on March 25th in St. Maarten.

WHAT TIME IS THE CHECK IN TO THE vessel?

Check in at your vessel will at 3pm on March 25th.

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, lunch and dinner on board of the vessel are included. Also (alcohol) beverages are included on board of the vessel.

What is the vessel like?

The Caribbean Explorer II comfortably accommodates 18 passengers in 9 double staterooms, all of which have private bathroom facilities and most of which have queen-sized beds.

The semi-enclosed, air-conditioned salon on the upper deck includes dining tables, TV, CD/DVD, video library, light table and lounge area; a large sundeck with lounge chairs is aft of the main salon. The vessel's boutique is located on the main deck, and the photo/video lab is below decks.

The large dive deck is equipped with a bathroom, individual gear lockers, camera table with low pressure air hose, recharging station, air and nitrox filling stations, tank racks, and a separate fresh water rinse for both scuba and underwater camera equipment. There are two sets of stairs accessing the dive platform, where two in-water ladders hang for easy access to and from the water. The vessel is also equipped with a satellite telephone for incoming and outgoing calls worldwide.

What are the diving conditions?

The weather in the Northeastern Caribbean is remarkably consistent year-round.

The temperatures range from the 70's F or higher in the winter months to the low 90's F during the summer, with nearly constant sea breezes. Water temperatures range from a low of about 76 degrees F in winter to a high of about 85 degrees F in summer.

There is normally little appreciable current at the sites we visit, and visibility is generally between 50 and 150 feet. Most divers are comfortable with a 3mm wetsuit in summer, and up to a 5 mm wetsuit in winter. Your dives will be done from the vessel itself, taking advantage of the easy-access dive platform and other on board amenities. Entries are usually made from the side exit gates into the water, a drop of 4 feet or so.

Current/live weather for both locations can be found here: St. Kitts Saba

What are the diving logistics?

The majority of dives aboard this vessel are offered at scheduled times, up to 5 times daily. This is to allow adequate surface intervals, provide the option for guided dives on as many sites as possible, and allow the vessel to travel on a schedule to different locations. It also permits us to offer island tours on the island which we visit, and to work within the guidelines of the marine parks in which we dive.

What do I need to bring?

Packing for a liveaboard trip is much easier than packing for a land-based vacation.

The climate doesn't require much more than shorts, T-shirts, and swimsuits (you may consider slacks, dress shorts or sundresses for dinner ashore in St. Maarten or St. Kitts).

Soft luggage is recommended as it takes up very little space when empty. Sun screens, sunglasses, a visor or hat is recommended. In case of rough weather or if you have a tendency towards seasickness, come prepared with motion sickness medications or Transderm patches from your doctor.

If you have favorite CD's, IPod playlist or DVD's, feel free to bring them.

All linens (including sheets, comforters, bath towels, hand towels, dive towels, and wash cloths) are provided on board.

If possible, pack your regulator, dive computer, mask, a swimsuit, change of clothes and toiletries in your carry-on bag. Having these few items with you will make an unexpected luggage delay far more bearable.

For more packing lists click here

What dive equipment should I bring?

The vessel provides tanks, weights, and weight belts for your use. If you prefer to rent the rest of your equipment from Aquatic Adventures, we have all of the equipment that you will need.

Please indicate on your application form what equipment you will require. Otherwise, the following items are the diver's responsibility:

• 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

*Available for rent on board. Rental/Course pricing (PDF).

What do I do upon my arrival?

Please note that a passport is required of all visitors arriving in St. Maarten or St. Kitts.
Please verify passport expiration date requirements for each island if your passport will expire within 6 months of your boarding date.
A paper copy of your valid return or onward airline ticket is also required.

Important information: All incoming passengers must complete and submit the Immigration and Customs ED form which includes a Custom and Border Form at knatravelform.kn. 

Departure from St Maarten: Boarding start at 3pm and the boat will leave the harbor around 6pm, depending on the tide.
Please plan to be in St. Maarten by 4pm the latest on the date of departure in order to facilitate the vessel’s clearance and timely departure for Saba.
If you’re arriving at 4pm or later, please send us a copy of your passport prior to your departure.

If meeting the vessel in St. Maarten, look for our driver upon exiting the baggage claim area; if no one is present, simply catch a cab to Bobby's Marina in Philipsburg; the vessel will be located near the end of the dock.

What will the meals be like?

Evening meals usually consist of lots of fresh vegetables, rice, pasta, chicken, beef, turkey, pork, and fish.

Breakfast is the usual fare of eggs, bacon, pancakes, French toast, muffins, danish and fresh fruits.

Lunches vary from soup and sandwiches, burgers, pasta, assorted salads, and quiche.

Homemade baked breads, cookies and brownies are offered between dives.

If you have any dietary restrictions or requests, please indicate so on your application form.
Please note that specific brands of drinks, dressings and foods are often unavailable in the islands, and that it can be very difficult for us to find low-fat, gluten free or soy products, fresh fruit, fish, and other items common elsewhere.
While the vendor will do their best to accommodate your requests, please be realistic and consider bringing some of your own foods if the lack thereof may constitute a health risk.

Are there onboard charges?

Though all meals (except Friday's dinner), beverages, transportation between islands, and much more has been taken care of with your trip payment, there are additional items which you may charge to your on-board bill. These include:

• Port, Immigration and Marine Park Fees - US$115 per person

• Departure tax

• Fuel Surcharge: US$215 per person

• Crew gratuities

• Incoming and outgoing telephone calls

• Photographic and/or scuba instruction

• Optional island tours

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

• Retail sales (shirts, scuba accessories, etc.)

The bill may be paid at the end of the trip using Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover or cash. Personal or traveler's checks are not accepted on board, and we are unable to provide cash for credit card charges more than invoice amounts.

Will there be phone or communication abilities on board? Is Wi-Fi available??

The vessel has a satellite phone for incoming and outgoing calls. Please be aware that a charge is assessed for both incoming and outgoing calls.

You can also use your cellphone while onboard (please check options offered by your provider): signal is very good in St Maarten and St Kitts. Saba has good signal too, but depending on our boat's position, it can be sometimes limited. Satellite Wi-Fi is not available onboard Caribbean Explorer II. 

Are crew gratuities included in the package price?

No.
Crew gratuities are not included in your package. The crew works very hard, 7 days a week and up to 12 weeks at a stretch, providing the best possible service for our guests.

The industry standard for crew gratuities on dive trips (if, of course, you are happy with the service which you have received) is between 15% and 20% of the package price per passenger.

Your generosity will be greatly appreciated.

Is Nitrox available?

Nitrox is available for an additional charge, as long as the diver is Nitrox Certified. Please read our Nitrox page for more information.

Can I solo dive?

Solo Diving is allowed as long as the diver has proof of certification of "Solo Diver" (Only the SDI Solo Diver Certification allows a diver to dive solo aboard Caribbean Explorer II).  We also offer a SDI Solo Diving course if you'd like to get Solo certified.  Please view the Solo Diving Policy page for more information.

Can I pay by Zelle?

No, the dive shop does not accept Zelle.

You can pay 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: 

$2695- Double occupancy (DIVER)
$2485- Double occupancy (NON-DIVER)
$5390- Single occupancy (DIVER)

Saba Shore excursion: $35/pp (payable onboard)
St. Kitts Shore excursion: $50/pp (payable onboard)

*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

  • Caribbean Explorer II.

• Meals

  • Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner on board of the vessel.

  • Beverages on board of the vessel.

• Diving

NOT INCLUDED

• Airfare and airport taxes

• Port, Immigration and Marine Park Fees - US$115 per person (to be paid onboard)

• Fuel Surcharge: US$215 per person (to be paid onboard)

• Crew gratuities, dive instruction, optional island tours, dive gear rental (other than tanks, weights and weight belts)

• Nitrox ($10 per fill or $150 per week) and retail sales (to be paid onboard)

• Airport transfers currently run about $15-30 per person in St. Maarten and $10-15 per person in St. Kitts - we can assist with arranging transfers.

• Pre/post hotel stays (including layover stays)

• Incidental charges 

• Add-on Shore excursions (payable onboard)

• 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’ (starting at $113/pp)

  • World Wide Trip Protector ‘Premium’ (starting at $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 4% 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 3% 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 2 people per registration form)

  • If you have more than 2 people from the same household going on this trip, please fill out multiple forms, as the maximum per form is 2 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