Belize - Private Island Marine Experience

Learning how to scuba dive in such a surreal paradise was magical. The island itself is unbelievable and the surrounding waters are perfect to learn and to snorkel in spare time. The corals are so alive, and seeing sea turtles and sharks on regular dives was amazing. Spear fishing the lionfish as part of managing their invasion was surprisingly fun and they were so tasty as well. I had hoped to be doing some more hands-on activities like marine life surveys and other things listed on the program info but hunting the lionfish is now the sole focus of the dive centre.

It was a great experience! I spent 3 weeks on the tiny island with ReefCI and I would love to have spent 3 more! It was educational and a very “hands on” experience. The accommodations are rustic but clean. The people, both employees and fellow volunteers, are all welcoming, supportive, and fun to hang around with. I was not a certified scuba diver when I arrived at ReefCI, but after being there 3 weeks, I am now certified as an Advanced Open Water scuba diver. <br>The other volunteers ranged in age from a single18 year old girl to a single woman in her 70’s. It’s very safe and inclusive to all. <br>Go and have a great time!

The best part of my trip in Spain was being able to wake up and know you have three dives to look forward too and making a goal for how many lionfish you want to hunt that day. Actually getting or surpassing the goal feels amazing.

All of the divemasters and instructors were great. My husband and I hadn’t been diving in 40 years but we always felt safe and supported by the crew. I’m 70 so it was difficult for me to carry the 80 pound tanks. I would try but it was a bit of a game to see whether or not I could actually make it all the way to the dock before a crew member would intercept me and carry the tank for me. I never did make it all the way to the dock and their support was much appreciated. It was also a struggle to get back on the boat after a dive. It took every bit of strength I had to haul myself up onto that first rung of the ladder. Then Vincent could reach me, haul me up the rest of the way, then follow me to my seat to make sure I didn’t fall. Much appreciated support! At my age this activity pushes my limits so the support is necessary and much appreciated for a successful trip.

While diving, I got to witness a massive Eagle Ray come out of nowhere while 60ft deep. It was breathtaking, and so much more beautiful than I can put into words. The island itself provided a chance to disconnect from the world which was very much needed. In addition, the food and staff were friendly, supportive, and VERY GOOD cooks!

The opportunity to dive 3 or more times a day was wonderful, from a comfortable dive boat. Very tasty food and a great situation to meet people from all over the globe. A real fun crew of staff and a safe area to spend the weekends.

The whole trip was a great experience and provided amazing opportunities to connect with the locals and people around the world. I absolutely loved it and would love to go back even just for the people.

The staff was so nice and welcoming. I went alone and because of the great staff felt a part of the group and had a great time. The food was amazing. In the morning I would go sit and watch the waves come in because I don't drink coffee. It was so relaxing and peaceful. Although we killed a good number of Lionfish, I'm not sure we made a big impact. I do have to say it was very disheartening how much plastic we collected only to collect the same amount the next time we went. The tree weeks were well worth the money, and I would recommend it to anyone I know that wants to learn to scuba or is scuba certified. Thanks for the greatest experience of my life. I hope to be able to do it again soon.

It's difficult to decide what's most memorable! The diving here is unreal! Everything. Is so beautiful. The food they provide is absolutely delicious, and the instructors and other volunteers are so great!

Getting to see everything from nurse sharks to turtles to dolphins while scuba diving has been an incredible experience. Living on the island and getting to disconnect from technology also helps create meaningful relationships with both the staff and the other volunteers. And the food on the island is AMAZING!

The best part of this particular program is the isolated community environment. You're stuck on an island with a handful of other volunteers, no internet or cell reception, and that facilitates a great sense of community.

Working on the island has been an experience of a lifetime. I'm so grateful to travel the world while also making an impact. I absolutely love working with GoEco, without it, I wouldn't be so rich in life experiences. I just want to thank GoEco for reaching out and for the discounted rate! I would never have gotten to do this had I not received information they were in need of volunteers.

The people I met were very cool and made it worth while. As well as my actually being able to say I learned a new skill for myself which I can use into the future. Also the island was amazing and serene and a paradise which made everything more special.

My most memorable experience from the Belize Private Island Marine Experience was the Lion Fish hunt. Master divers Willy and Louis were very committed to the cause. Their enthusiasm for the sea was evident.

The local team is an amazing group of enthusiasts and their spirit and passion are contagious. Diving certification program is really good and develops skills and confidence. Instructors and support staff were really great

The most memorable experiences of the Belize Private Island Marine Experience program were going on a night dive and seeing a sea turtle, also interacting with the local staff and learning about their lives.

Spearing Lion Fish was the most exciting adventure of the program. I felt like we made a pretty fair impact on the population control while we were there. The chef and assistant deserves much praise as the food was superb!

Every single day was packed with excitement and fun. I met so many great people and gained some new friends from all over the world!The diving was amazing and the instructors were absolutely excellent.

I learned a lot - met some wonderful people - experienced a really different kind of scuba experience. It was a wonderful week!You really need to change to a more traditional type of dive boat. Being one of the older divers, I had some difficulty getting on and off the boat. Hopefully that situation will change in the future.

Willy is a wonderful diving instructor. As a newbie to diving I felt safe with him and he took great care of the group and provided invaluable information for me to become a better diver. Frank, Linda, Annie, Chuck, Lewis and Sebastian were absolutely wonderful and I cannot thank them enough for making the trip an amazing adventure.