Houston's Premier Scuba and Dive Shop Oceanic Ventures Inc.

(713) 523-3483 (dive)
5808 Newcastle Drive
Houston, TX 77401

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Club Aquarius Social Club – Out of This World

Our first, in-person, Club Aquarius Social Club meeting for 2022 featured an “out of this world” presentation from Robert Sanders, Medical Director of NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory. It was a fascinating look at hyperbaric medicine as it applies to NASA, astronaut training and the staff at the NBL mixed in with some fun stories and diving adventures.  And, we met at our new favorite bar, restaurant Simone’s on Sunset where Eddie and his staff, especially Brian helped make it a fun evening.

#oceanicventures #ovidiving #NASA #NBL #Simonesonsunset #clubaquarius

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Don Peterson Becomes First Scuba Diver to be Inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame

One of our hero’s when we first got started was from the “diving center of the Universe“, Missouri. Don gave us a lot of advice and support and rthis month he became the first scuba diver to be inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame! The following article was recently published in the Dive News Wire.

Diveventures… Don Peterson, former owner of Aquasports in Springfield, MO, and now resident Instructor Trainer with Diventures, has become the first scuba diver to be inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. Peterson was awarded the honor at the hall’s 2022 induction ceremony on February 6th. With 58 years under his belt, he has taught more than 15,000 divers and over 50 instructors throughout his remarkable career.

Don Peterson’s journey began in the 1960s at Table Rock Lake where he accepted a summer job at ‘John the Diver’ dive shop. Little did he know that diving would become a lifelong career. A graduate of Drury University and a Navy Veteran, Peterson has a lot to be proud of. His scuba journey has taken him around the world, sharing his passion for diving with students of all ages, including children as young as eight through several summer camp programs.

In 1971, Peterson graduated with honors from the National Association of Underwater Instructors training program. There, he taught diving at Coronado Island and the University of San Diego. Eventually, Peterson returned to Table Rock where he became the Director of Education for ‘John the Diver’ stores.

In 1978, Don and two friends – Roy Waddell and Bob French – each pooled $10,000 toward the opening of Aquasports Scuba Center. Later, Aquasports added a swimming and commercial diving division for scuba classes. In 1987 Don’s wife, Vickie, and her mother, started a travel agency next door. Fast-forward a few years, and Aquasports was named ‘Store of the Year’ twice by the National Association of Scuba Diving Schools (NASDS).

“Without Vickie’s help and encouragement, I would have never been able to achieve this kind of success,” said Peterson in his acceptance speech.

In addition to leading his business, Peterson has also been an industry leader, serving on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Scuba Diving Schools and also as a chair of the Water Safety Committee for the local American Red Cross. In 1999 Peterson became an Instructor Certifier for Scuba Schools International (SSI) and was awarded Platinum Pro 5000 Diver and Pro 500 Instructor.

In 2011, Don sold Aquasports to Diventures, the fastest growing network of scuba training centers in the United States. There, he continues to teach as an Instructor Trainer and scuba Instructor based in the Springfield location.

“This award is for all the divers in Missouri and all the people who support us and come through our scuba diving school,” said Peterson. “This award is for them. Without them, I wouldn’t be here.”

“I consider our organization incredibly blessed to have Don as a leader and mentor for our team. When I walked into his dive shop on Friday, October 8, 2010, I had no idea that it would lead to the rich friendship we share,” said Dean Hollis, founder of Diventures. “We’re humbled to carry forward his legacy and we’re thrilled to see him receive this well-deserved recognition.”

“We call Don ‘The Legend’ around here,” said Will Munroe, General Manager of Diventures. “Don is the salt of the earth; an incredible instructor, a servant leader and a genuine class act. He has directly influenced generations of divers and dive professionals – a legacy that continues to grow through his ongoing mentorship of our team members. We’re so happy for Don and Vickie and thrilled that there is now a diver recognized in the hall of Missouri’s top athletes.”

“It’s been a lot of fun,” said Peterson. “My enthusiasm for it today is as great or greater than it was back then. I still enjoy every day I go to work.”

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Happy Valentines Day! Tell Us About Your Favorite Dive Buddies…

On Valentine’s Day How About Remembering Your Dive Buddy?

One of the cool things about diving is meeting new people and sharing a common passion with them. I a sure you have had some memorible dive buddies over the years. How about taking a moment and sharing some stories about your favorite dive buddies. Tell us about where you met them and where you have been diving. Maybe you have a special Dive Buddy or two that you submerge with on a regular basis or maybe you like finding new ones on every trip.

Let us know in the comments or on Facebook. You will see this video on our page there too.

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Belize Turneff Atoll – July 2022

Turneff Flats Resort

July 16 -July 23 2022

Overview

As the most biologically diverse atoll in the Caribbean, Turneffe Atoll is a truly incredible place.  It is a combination of healthy coral reef (both fringing reef and patch corals), expansive back reef flats, large lagoon systems, sea grass beds, and extensive mangrove forest. Turneffe is home to 260 fish species, 77 plant species and five fish spawning aggregation sites.  The atoll has great economic and sociological significance in Belize as a major commercial fishery and ecotourism center.  In addition, the atoll provides Belize City and the mainland coast with essential protection from hurricanes.

Turneffe Atoll is one of only four coral atolls in the Caribbean. Two others (Lighthouse Atoll and Glover’s Atoll) are also located in Belize and the fourth is in southern Mexico.  Formation of these coral atolls was accomplished through years of coral buildup rather than by volcanic activity – the more common way of atoll formation.  The entire atoll is surrounded by a fringe coral reef with waters inside the reef varying from less than a foot to 30 feet deep.  Ocean depths around the atoll are thought to reach 10,000 feet.

Approximately 30 miles long and 10 miles across, Turneffe has evolved as a globally significant coastal marine ecosystem. This involves the following intimately interrelated habitats: the coral reef, the back reef flats, the sea grass beds, the mangroves and the littoral forest.  During your visit you will learn how all of these varied habitats are both interrelated and interdependent.  You will learn what is required to sustain healthy coral reefs, the functions of the back reef flats, the importance of healthy sea grass beds, and the reasons why mangroves are vital to the entire ecosystem. Turneffe Flats resort sits in the center of the Atoll with easy access to diving North and South on the outer barrier, diving inside the atoll, or even the backside of the Atoll.  And is close to Lighthouse Reef for the Tuesday dive to the Blue Hole and Half Moon Caye,

What is included?

  • * 8 days/ 7 nights/6 days of diving or adventure activities
  • * Blue Hole, Half-Moon Caye, Bird Sanctuary on Tuesday
  • * Beach Front Cabana Room
  • * Taxes
  • * Three Meals daily
  • * Pool, internet, sea kayaks, gym
  • * transfers on arrival to the hotel, if arrive with group
  • * trip brochure and packet,

Special Oceanic Ventures Connoisseur Club Benefit

  • * Special Trip Brochure

Other activities that can be arranged… 

When you are in Belize City or stay a little longer and visit the jungle. If you depart on Monday, July 25 (or longer) you can stay two nights, three days at Chaa Creek Adventure and Eco lodge in the Mayan Mountains.  Ask Ann or Eric about how amazing and peaceful a location. https://www.chaacreek.com/

What is not included?

air fare, equipment systems rentals, tips for the local dive guides, tips for bar staff, bar and boutique tab, other activities not listed, marine reserve fee $25 and park entrance fee for Blue Hole dives ($40) paid in cash on Island, fishing licenses if fishing ($25), cave tubing Saturday in Belize City.  Please note fishing is not included unless booked as a fishing/diving client, ask for a quote.  

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You can also contact Dive Mom!

COVID Information

For Resort’s COVID Operations and Vaccination policy see https://www.tflats.com/scuba-diving-belizes-turneffe-atoll-belizes-best-scuba-diving-resort-turneffe-flats-belize

The Fine Print…

Please see the Terms & Conditions page for a listing of our travel policies. All prices are subject to change until booked and ticketed. All moneys are due in full on deposit even if not paid in full and some penalties may ably for cancellations based on the operators policies and group penalties.  As with most small island properties and vessels, cancellations are more of an issue so they have limited ability to fill unused spaces.  We highly recommend trip insurance to help avoid any unnecessary problems.  No refunds for missed flights or changes in plans. Trip insurance and diving insurance can be found at http://oceanicventures.net/travel-insurance/.  Both Dive Assure/DAN and Travel Guard have a family plan.  Diving Accident and Medical Insurance is required. Vessel and OVI travel releases are required.  Please plan to bring a copy of your logbook, c-card, and diving insurance.  

Passport must have a minimum of 6 months validity prior to passport expiration.  No refunds for missed flights or boats.

Note: All guests spaces are reserved upon deposit.  But unless a minimum number of guest sign up for the trip by the deadline dates, an Oceanic Ventures trip leader will not be attending.

Adventure Date

August 7-14July 16 -July 23 2022

Airfare

Airfare is not included in this trip. Your destination is Belize City, Belize

Air details :  Saturday airport pickup and transfer by boat to the lodge (Flights must arrive before 3:30PM). Saturday return transfer to airport also included (Flights must depart Belize City no earlier than 11AM).  Joe booked this flight:

Flight 1 of 2 UA1569            Sat, Jul 16, 2022             11:58 AM – 01:30 PM Houston, TX, US (IAH)           Belize City, BZ (BZE)

Flight 2 of 2 UA1405            Sat, Jul 23, 2022               12:50 PM – 04:29 PM Belize City, BZ (BZE                 Houston, TX, US (IAH)

Transit Arrangements

We can assist you with transit hotels if needed.

Fare

All per person double discounted for cash and Club membership. Except the single cabin which is for one person. First booked, first choice.

  • * $3,395 pp/Club
  • * $3,295 PP/Club/Cash
  • All prices per person, based on double occupancy and Club Membership

Deposit & Final Payment

  • * $1,500 plus trip insurance
  • * Final payment due – May 1, 2021
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You can also contact Dive Mom!

Travel Notes

  • * An Oceanic Ventures Application/Travel Release is required at time of booking
  • * A resort Release is required by the final payment date
  • * We cannot guarantee a roommate unless you are booking together with someone, so plan on a single supplement
  • * As with most small operations, cancellations are more of an issue so they have limited ability to fill unused spaces. We always recommend trip insurance to help avoid any unnecessary problems. There are no refunds for missed flights or changes in plans. Travel Insurance (ie: comprehensive accident, medical, baggage and trip cancellation and interruption insurance) purchased at the time their reservation is made, may help protect guests from financial disappointment if they are prevented from making their scheduled trip due to illness or family illness, or in the event that unforeseen circumstances prevent the airline or yacht from making its scheduled trip.
  • * The United States is requiring a COVID test prior to re-entering the country. The boat will handle getting everyone COVID tested prior to boarding your return flight.
  • * Passport must have a minimum of 6 months validity prior to passport expiration
  • * We require diving accident insurance. For your convenience below are links to Dive Assure . Both organizations offer Travel Insurance and Dive Accident Insurance and be purchased via our web site at https://oceanicventures.net/travel-insurance/.  Both Dive Assure and Travel Guard have a family plan. Dive Assure is diving insurance and also has a travel insurance option.

Travel Insurance

We highly recommend travel insurance to help cover you for unknown events that may occur. We also recommend that you have coverage to help you in the event you need to leave for weather or other emergencies.

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Solomon Islands -2022

Solomon Islands Liveaboard

October 21 to October 29, 2022

Overview

The Solomon Islands comprise 992 islands, of which only 147 are inhabited. Situated to the northeast of Australia and southeast of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands are one of the last frontiers; untouched, peaceful and beautiful. Due to its remote location, the country offers some of the most pristine dive sites in the world, filled with innumerable unspoiled hard and soft corals. Indulge yourself in true picture postcard diving.

There is something for everyone in the Solomon Islands. For those who like their creatures on the large side there are various types of shark cruising amid the spectacular scenery of jaw dropping reefs, walls and pinnacles. For the macro diver, there is a plethora of macro wonders to discover such as pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, electric clams and ghost pipefish. The marine diversity in Solomon Islands is hard to beat! There are wrecks, caves, caverns, and underwater volcanos.  And the local villagers are friendly and interested in meeting visitors and sharing their crafts, carvings, and culture.  

The Solomon Islands are THE destination for the real diving fan looking for a change of scenery, completely off the beaten track.

Embarkation: Coral Sea Resort, Honiara at 18:00

Disembarkation: Coral Sea Resort, Honiara, at 8:00

What is included?

  • * 11 days/ 10 nights/9 days of diving 
  • * Taxes
  • , full board accommodations based on double occupancy
  • * Meals while on boat, including water, tea, coffee, juices and soft drinks
  • * transfers on arrival if traveling with the group
  • 1 night hotel on arrival and on departure, based on double occupancy
  • * trip brochure and packet,
  • * trip shirt, and travel leader.

Can I use a rebreather?

The Solomon Master is a rebreather friendly vessel. However, sorb and oxygen must be ordered 4 months in advance. If you are using your CCR on this trip, please let us know early so we can make the proper arrangements. So, yes, you may use your rebreather.

Special Oceanic Ventures Connoisseur Club Benefit

Other activities that can be arranged… 

Shopping in town, City and cultural tours

What is not included?

Airfare, additional transfers, meals or activities in transit, any additional hotels based on air schedule once published, transfers not with the group, other land tours, tips for crew and local guides, diving insurance, nitrox, diving equipment not listed above, alcoholic drinks on board, on-board merchandise, local taxes and port fees, Club Aquarius fee $65 pp.  Tips need to be paid in cash. All other vessel expenses can be paid by credit card subject to an admin fee of 3%.  Sofnolime and rebreather gas must be ordered 4 months in advance.  We may need to transit thru Australia or Fiji.

What other things should I be aware of?

  • Local taxes and port fees must be paid in advance and are added to your final payment.  (Estimated $250 USD)
  • Nitrox is $250 per person per charter, paid in advance and added to your final payment..
  • Advanced Open Water and 40 logged dives are recommended for this route. See Ann if you are interested in the trip but do not at this time meet the requirements.
  • Fit to Dive: all guests must complete a fit to dive form www.masterliveaboards.com/forms
  • COVID 19 Vaccination: At this time there is not a vaccine requirement but there may be in the future. 
  • Measles Immunization:  Passengers arriving from American Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Australia, New Zealand and Philippines including transit passengers, are required to show proof of vaccination against measles at least 14 days prior to arrival. We will most likely be transiting thru Fiji or Australia, so plan accordingly.
  • Air Schedules:  air schedules have not been published but it most likely we will need to do a contract charter in order to get all of guests to Honiara and back to meet the vessel’s schedules.  At this time it is probably not possible to use miles for your trip.  Plan to budget apx $2500 for air.  We will negotiate the best contract possible and there should be options for upgrade to business class service.
Dive Mom – “Tell Me More!”

COVID Information

The traveler must be free from COVID before departure. A COVID test is required before departure and a test is required to return to the United States. These requirements are subject to change

The Fine Print…

Please see the Terms & Conditions page for a listing of our travel policies. Additionally, please see the Master Liveaboard terms and conditions. By depositing on the trip, you agree to both sets of terms and conditions. All prices are subject to change until booked and ticketed. All moneys are due in full on deposit even if not paid in full and some penalties may ably for cancellations based on the operators policies and group penalties.  As with most small island properties and vessels, cancellations are more of an issue so they have limited ability to fill unused spaces.  We highly recommend trip insurance to help avoid any unnecessary problems and should be purchased within 14 das of the initial deposit to receive the most benefit.  No refunds for missed flights or changes in plans. Trip insurance and diving insurance can be found at http://oceanicventures.net/travel-insurance/.  Both Dive Assure/DAN and Travel Guard have a family plan.  Diving Accident and Medical Insurance is required. Vessel and OVI travel releases are required.  Please plan to bring a copy of your logbook, c-card, and diving insurance.  

Passport must have a minimum of 6 months validity prior to passport expiration.  No refunds for missed flights or boats.

Note: All guests spaces are reserved upon deposit.  But unless a minimum number of guest sign up for the trip by the deadline dates, an Oceanic Ventures trip leader will not be attending.

Adventure Date

October 21 – 29, 2022

Airfare

Airfare is not included in this trip. Your destination is Honiara

It is best to fly with the group so please let us help you plan this part of the trip. The air schedules for this trip have not been set yet so air will require some patience.

Transit Arrangements

The trip includes 1 night in a transit hotel on arrival and on departure.

Fare

All per person double and Club membership. First booked, first choice. Only 15 guest spaces available

  • * $5,195 pp/Club – Classic Cabin (2 spaces – sold, pending)
  • * $5,694 pp/Club – Premium Cabin (8 spaces – 3 sold, 6 remaining)
  • * $6,095 pp/Club – Master Cabin (6 Spaces – 2 sold 3 remaining)

Deposit & Final Payment

  • * $1,500 plus trip insurance
  • * Final payment due – August 1, 2022
Tell Me More Button
You can also contact Dive Mom!

Travel Notes

  • * An Oceanic Ventures Application/Travel Release is required at time of booking
  • * A boat Release is required by the final payment date
  • * We cannot guarantee a roommate unless you are booking together with someone, so plan on a single supplement
  • * As with most small liveaboard operations, cancellations are more of an issue so they have limited ability to fill unused spaces. We always recommend trip insurance to help avoid any unnecessary problems. There are no refunds for missed flights or changes in plans. Travel Insurance (ie: comprehensive accident, medical, baggage and trip cancellation and interruption insurance) purchased at the time their reservation is made, may help protect guests from financial disappointment if they are prevented from making their scheduled trip due to illness or family illness, or in the event that unforeseen circumstances prevent the airline or yacht from making its scheduled trip.
  • * The United States is requiring a COVID test prior to re-entering the country. The boat will handle getting everyone COVID tested prior to boarding your return flight.
  • * Passport must have a minimum of 6 months validity prior to passport expiration
  • * We require diving accident insurance. For your convenience below are links to Dive Assure . Both organizations offer Travel Insurance and Dive Accident Insurance and be purchased via our web site at https://oceanicventures.net/travel-insurance/.  Both Dive Assure and Travel Guard have a family plan. Dive Assure is diving insurance and also has a travel insurance option.

Travel Insurance

We highly recommend travel insurance to help cover you for unknown events that may occur. You should purchase it within 14 days of your deposit to receive the most benefit from the policy. We also recommend that you have coverage to help you in the event you need to leave for weather or other emergencies.

Thank you for letting us assist you with your family’s diving adventures!