Scuba Diving in Jamaica: Everything You Need To Know Before You Go
Category: Our ResortsApril 25th 2024Back to our Sandals Blog > > >
Diving enthusiasts, looking to explore amazing sites that are not overrun with crowds, will find heaven on earth in Jamaica. Though
You’ll find the best dive sites across Jamaica in Negril, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. Two of the most popular are The Arches and The Caves, which feature remarkable rock structures �' you can often even see rays and sharks. Beginners will love sites like Surprise Reef, where tropical fish and turtles glide through crystal clear waters!
In this article on the Beaches Blog:
What is it like to scuba dive in Jamaica?
In Jamaica, there are many scuba diving spots to choose from. This means divers of all levels can find an optimal area which lessens the pressure to dive in a place that doesn’t match your skill level. Resorts like
Choosing a dive site in Jamaica is a process of determining what you’d like to see. There are over 100 active dive sites in Jamaica, and interest should match skill level to find the right one. To decide, ask yourself things like whether you’d be satisfied with seeing just tropical fishes, turtles and colorful coral of all types, or if you want to seek out rays and maybe even nurse sharks. Whatever the answer, there’s a dive site for you in Jamaica.
The Jamaica coastline is saturated with coral reefs. Negril, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios have marine parks and reserves which serve to protect the environment and marine life, which divers’ benefit from. Many of the protected areas were designated such in order to put a stop to destructive fishing habits. Since the 1990s when this sort of protection was implemented, the health of the reefs has greatly improved.
The Cayman Trench which is near the island’s north coast is worthy of mention �' this is a top attraction for divers looking for exceptional wall dives and exciting encounters in the open sea. The north coast of Jamaica (where Ocho Rios and Montego Bay are located) is best for these kinds of dives.
What you can see when diving in Jamaica
Sponges, soft gorgonians, black coral, sea fans… and that’s not even touching the over 260 types of reef fish you’re likely to come across while scuba diving in Jamaica. Some of the rarities you may encounter include the four-eye butterflyfish and sharpnose puffer. You’ll also see parrot fish, sea slugs, green and spotted moray eels, mackerel, turtles, crabs, barracuda, eagle rays, and more �' not forgetting of course, the various hard and soft corals.
While you’re swimming around exploring the ocean’s depths, you may also spot nurse sharks, West Indian manatees, as well as bluehead wrasse. Some people have even reported spotting larger sharks and whales during migration season in some areas. Whether you go for a shallow dive, or something with a little more depth, there’s lots to experience beneath the waves in Jamaica.
Beware of things like fire coral, which will irritate your skin and affect your dive in a negative way if it touches your skin. Other than that, the creatures you’re likely to see around the island, at popular dive sites, are generally harmless.
Below you’ll find our list of the most popular dive sites in Jamaica!
14 popular dive sites in Jamaica you’ll want to explore
Looking for Sandals Resorts travel agents? We offer the best prices and packages, including airfare to and from destination, airport transfers, excursions and activities, travel insurance and so much more.
The Throne Room
Accessible from:
Dive level: Novice
The Throne Room in Negril is often described as the best site for scuba diving in Jamaica. It is highly rated because of the abundance of marine life that can be found there, as well as the unusual coral formations. During a dive here you may come across stingrays, black corals, eels, octopus, barracuda, yellow sponges, marine coral, snappers and sometimes dolphins and nurse sharks. This reef gets its name from the throne-shaped elephant ear sponge which can be seen here. Many divers are fascinated by the lighting once they get into the underwater cavern, just about 60 feet below the surface. The notable contrast here, between light and dark, is truly majestic.
Frenchman Hole
Accessible from:
Dive level: Advanced
In terms of the corals found at each site, Frenchman Hole is similar to the Throne Room. Frenchman Hole is also a dive site where you can sometimes spot moray eels, groupers, nurse sharks and hammerhead sharks. It’s not as popular as some of the other dive sites on the island, but it can be found near Orange River, and features a significant number of ledges along a sloping wall. This dive spot is not far off from the beach, and the cave here is easily accessible with a wide opening. The cavern starts at around 30 ft, and ends at 70 ft.
Widowmaker's Cave
Accessible from:
Dive level: Advanced
The Widowmaker's Cave is the most famous site for scuba diving in Montego Bay. Divers have the option of starting this dive from two different areas �' from the top (via an opening in the reef at 35 ft), or from the bottom near the 80 ft mark. Whether you start from the bottom and make your way to the top, or from the top and make your way down, you’ll be able to see the same unique sights along the way. Different challenges are in store depending on the route you take, but there are safety stops along the way. On this dive you can see things like black corals which cover the walls, various soft corals, parrot fish, barracuda and more.
SS Kathryn Wreck (The Catherine/Kathryn Caverns)
Accessible from:
Dive level: Advanced
The SS Kathryn Wreck is a great scuba diving site, just off the coast of Ocho Rios in Jamaica. The SS Kathryn was a 120 ft WWII mine-sweeper, and it was intentionally sunk in the 1950s for the purpose of creating an artificial reef. It has thrived over the years, and today you can find corals, sponges, and marine life of all kinds during a dive here. You can either swim around the wreck, or venture inside the wheelhouse for a closer look. This dive isn’t really for beginners, though it is incredibly popular. While diving here you may come across sting rays, sergeant majors, lobsters, eels, sea snakes, hamlets, snappers, and sometimes nurse sharks. There are also lots of barrel sponges and sea fans.
The Arches
Accessible from:
Dive level: Advanced
The Arches and the Caves are incredible diving sites that feature outstanding rock structures; divers in these areas can sometimes see things like rays and sharks. The Caves are about 10 minutes away from shore and consist of two caverns connected by a narrow tunnel. The Arches ranges from 40 ft to 60 ft, with a noticeable drop-off at the 40 ft mark. You’ll easily be able to swim through The Arch here right alongside schools of purple and yellow fairy basslets. Advanced divers can take advantage of wall explorations with many ledges and overhangs.
Surprise Reef
Accessible from:
Dive level: Novice
Perhaps your kids have always wanted to try scuba diving, but you’re not sure where the best place is to start in Jamaica. The minimum age for PADI� certification is 10 years in most places, and once your kids have their certification, they can dive in areas that are kid-friendly. Surprise Reef is one of those dive sites in Jamaica which is good for beginners. The average depth of this reef is 30 feet, and as the name suggests, it is filled with opportunities to spot all kinds of marine life including turtles and parrot fish.
The Wreck
Accessible from:
Dive level: Advanced
Diving with the objective of seeing exotic marine life and diving in the hopes of finding wrecks are two different adventures entirely. You won’t find wrecks at every single dive site, or even an abundance of fishes. At The Wreck, however, the main attraction is a plane wreck, about 60 ft down. The fuselage of the plane is at the 80 ft mark at this location, right next to stunning coral, and with fishes like black durgon swimming nearby. This is a dive for the savvier divers, who’ll likely want to take full advantage of the chance to explore the wreck.
Stingray City
Accessible from:
Dive Level: Novice
Stingray City is one of those attractions that should be at the top of your list of things to do while in Jamaica. As the name suggests, during this dive you’ll have lots of opportunities to see rays up close. There are multiple reefs within the bay in this area, and the reefs here are among the healthiest and most attractive in Jamaica. Don’t be afraid if the sting rays come right up to you, or swim near your legs out of curiosity as they’re quite accustomed to having visitors. With the help of a guide, you may even get to touch and hold the stingrays above the water if you so choose, but keep in mind they’re a lot bigger than you would expect!
Middle Shoal Reef
Accessible from:
Dive Level: Novice - Master
You’ll find a little bit of everything at Middle Shoal Reef. This reef is often used for the PADI� introductory (Resort) Scuba Course dive number 1. There are two sides to this reef, which cater to divers of varying skill levels. Guests of Sandals Negril can access the more advanced section of this dive with a depth of 90 ft. Sightings include spade fish, turtles, French grunts, squirrel fish, barracuda, and much more. There’s also a small-engine plane wreck at this site. If you dive further out, you’ll encounter a drop-off up to 200 feet. The area suitable for beginners has a depth of 30 feet. During this dive you’re likely to see anything from lobsters and starfish, to scorpion fish and stingrays. There’s also plenty of barrel sponges and sea fans around the reef.
Devil’s Reef
Accessible from:
Dive Level: Master
You can take a boat ride from Ocho Rios to get to the protected area where Devil’s Reef can be found. Here you’ll find an underwater ridge with prominent staghorn corals and black-ball sponges. During this dive you’ll navigate a gently sloping area until around 65 ft, and then experience a steep drop-off over sandy bottom at 130 ft. There are all different kinds of reef fish swimming around, and you’ll also see things like lettuce sea slugs, vibrant corals, turtles, and maybe even moray eels or nurse sharks.
English Reef
Accessible from:
Dive Level: Advanced
English Reef is a lesser known diving site in Jamaica, which is popular with more experienced divers. This extensive reef spans along depths of 65ft up to 100ft, and it is perfect for those who want to dive a little deeper. Most describe English Reef simply as “stunning” or “breathtaking”, and you’ll appreciate the great visibility (up to 80-ft) when conditions are most optimal.
Maize Reef
Accessible from:
Dive Level: Novice
Jamaica is a great place to learn to scuba dive, mainly because there are many reefs you can explore which aren’t excessively deep. Maize reef is one of these. This reef is fascinating because of the way divers can navigate in and out, and even around the reef for a wider perspective. This is where its name comes from. While Maize is most suitable for divers who are just starting out, more advanced divers will still appreciate this setting.
The Sunken City of Port Royal
Dive Level: Advanced
Port Royal in Jamaica has quite a rich history. It was once considered the wickedest city in the world and was at one point run by pirates. Part of the colorful history of Port Royal involves an earthquake that caused two thirds of the city to sink into the sea in 1692. Today, the site off the coast of Kingston can be explored with a dive session; you’ll need special permission to dive in this zone though. If you sign up with a licensed diving company, you don’t have to worry about anything but simply arriving and getting ready for an outstanding diving experience. There are several shallow shipwrecks beneath the waters here, and plenty of reefs with lots to see.
Alligator Reef
Dive Level: Various
The appeal of Alligator Reef is that it consists of multiple reefs in one. There are five distinct dive sites (sections) that are part of Alligator Reef, and they appeal to divers of different skill levels. Each section of this extensive reef comes with its own challenges and sightings vary, but the unexpected nature of what you can see here (everything from stunning coral to tropical fishes) is what keeps divers coming back for more.
Expert Tip: The earlier you get out for your dive the better. Scuba dive trips from Beaches and Sandals Resorts often leave early in the morning. Book your dives on arrival, to make sure there’s availability.
When to go Scuba diving in Jamaica
Like most Caribbean islands, the weather in Jamaica is consistently lovely. This means you can travel to the island at just about any time of year and find near perfect (if not perfect) weather. Day temperature is usually between 82�°F when it’s ‘winter’ (December until March being the coolest and driest months) and 91�°F in the summer (June until October being the warmest and wettest months).
Jamaica also has some great beaches which are ideal for scuba diving. Not only are the beaches picturesque and postcard worthy, beneath the waves you’ll find visibility of around 70 - 100 ft. On some days, visibility exceeds 100 ft, and this happens usually in the best weather conditions. The water temperature in Jamaica is between 81 - 84�°F year round, which means a 3 mm wetsuit will do for divers.
Also read:
28 Helpful Travel Tips For Jamaica: Dos & Don’ts .
Dive for free with Beaches / Sandals in Jamaica
Beaches and Sandals Resorts in Jamaica offer free scuba diving trips for certified divers, during their entire stay (max. two tanks a day). This includes professional equipment and staff. Some guests prefer to bring their own wetsuits, which can be stored in one of the lockers at the dive shop in between dives. However, you can get one at the dive shop as well - at no additional costs.
Both Beaches and Sandals make it possible to personalize your dive schedule, which means you won’t be obligated to wake up before the sun comes up to head out on a dive, if you don’t want to. It might be worth it to go diving in the morning though, especially if you want to go to some of the more far off sites.
If you’re not PADI� certified already, you’ll be able to save money getting certified at Beaches or Sandals, as this process tends to be less costly at the resorts than in other places.
Beaches has
Now that you know more about scuba diving in Jamaica…
The next thing to do ahead of your trip is to pack! Our
Bonus: Alternatives to Scuba diving in Jamaica
While scuba diving is a must if you want to explore the undersea world properly, there are some other options that are more family friendly (in case you are bringing younger kids).
Snuba diving in Jamaica
If you, the kids or your partner aren’t certified for scuba, you can try SNUBA diving in Jamaica, which does not require certification. SNUBA is a fun combination between scuba diving and snorkeling. During your SNUBA dive you’ll be able to stay scope the underwater scene much longer than you would while snorkeling as you’ll be breathing through a regulator connected to a floating air supply. You can go as deep as 20 ft down during the experience, which can also be enjoyed from more shallow depths. The best part about SNUBA is that you’ll get to move around without a cumbersome tank. Ahead of your SNUBA trial, read Sandals’
Snorkeling in Jamaica
If you’re interested in snorkeling in Jamaica, it’s a good idea to bring along a full face mask, especially if you’re travelling with younger kids. Snorkeling affords you a chance to get better acquainted with marine life, without the need for certification or training sessions. Most people get the hang of it right away, but if you haven’t tried snorkeling before you can check out Sandals’
Frequently asked questions about scuba diving in Jamaica
Is scuba diving hard?
Unless you’re not so comfortable being underwater, scuba diving is relatively easy! It is recommended that you are in good physical health and a fairly confident swimmer before you dive. First time dives can be daunting for many, but trying to breathe naturally and not panicking are key. We recommend diving with PADI certified instructors, who will be on hand to help you at all times.
Are there sharks in Jamaica?
Tiger, hammerhead, Caribbean reef, nurse and bull sharks can all be found in Jamaica’s warm waters - but don’t worry. These sharks are not aggressive and are unlikely to attack unless provoked. The beautiful reefs surrounding the island act as a natural barrier to sharks, so you’re unlikely to see them during your visit. Shark attacks are incredibly rare in Jamaica and, when they have occurred in the past, have been in deep water far away from the safety of the reef.
WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO
We bring your dream Sandals Resorts vacation to life!
Hi! I'm Lia Vincent. I have been handling all the ins-and-outs of Sandals Resorts vacations for couples and groups since 2002! I know how unique and special your Sandals Resorts vacation is to you and your guests. My team and I want to make sure your group travel is an extraordinary experience, and one to talk about for ages to come.
- Exclusive savings
- Wedding package options
- Budget considerations
- Local vendors
- Customization
- Destination options
Sandals Resorts Wedding Packages
Your next great adventure begins here. Whether you prefer an intimate elopement or a grand affair, every wedding deserves a week-long celebration with a little something extra. Sandals and Beaches wedding packages offer the best of everything from pre-wedding events to unique wedding day and honeymoon experiences.
Click to read more articles about Sandals Weddings: Sandals Resort Wedding Planning
TWO LOVE BIRDS PACKAGE
Applicable for 2 people.
Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website
templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license
Pre-Wedding Events
• Scents of Love Couples massage*
During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding event team: event
coordination, setup & breakdown
On Your Wedding Day
• Bridal attendant*
• 10 digital images
At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• Rose bouquet
• Rose boutonniere
• Witnesses
At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Chef-inspired hors d'oeuvres
- Sparkling wine
- Reception table with white linen and white
cushioned Chiavari chairs
• Two-tiered white fondant wedding cake
with rose topper
• Private candlelight dinner with four-course
menu and prosecco*
On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine
at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of choice
For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay
with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category
SWEETHEART WEDDING PACKAGE
Applicable for up to 10 people
Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website
templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license
During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding event team: event
coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services
for the bride and groom (not applicable
to retail items)
On Your Wedding Day
• $200 credit towards select photography
packages
• $200 credit towards select videography
packages
At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid bouquet
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid
boutonniere
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs
At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Chef-inspired hors d' oeuvres
- Sparkling wine toast, signature cocktail,
and non-alcoholic beverages
- Reception table with white linen
• Two-tiered white fondant wedding cake
with white or magenta dendrobium topper
• Reception table with white linen and white
cushioned Chiavari chairs
On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine
at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of your choice
• $100 credit towards either a private
candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach
or pool cabana
For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay
with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category
This package is complimentary when Bride and Groom stay for 7 nights or longer in Club or Butler categories. This offer is available Monday through Friday, 9am-2pm and is applicable only to 10 persons. This offer does not apply to ReTie the Knot ceremonies. Certain restrictions apply. See terms and conditions
BLISS WEDDING PACKAGE
Applicable for 12 people or more
Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website
templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license
• 6th Room Free* when traveling with 5 paid
double rooms between Sept. 1 - Dec. 20
(up to 5 complimentary rooms)
• 12th Room Free* when 11 paid double rooms
travel between Jan. 2 - Aug. 31.
(up to 5 complimentary rooms)
Pre-Wedding Events
• One-hour private welcome cocktail
- Heavy hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar
- Cocktail tables with white linen
During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding team: event coordination,
setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for the
entire group (not applicable to retail items)
On Your Wedding Day
• 20 digital images
• $200 credit towards select videography
packages
At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• One speaker and one microphone
• Rose bouquet
• Rose boutonniere
• Rose bouquet for 1 member of wedding party
• Rose boutonniere for 1 member
of wedding party
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs
At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Passed hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar, sparkling wine toast, signature
cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• Two-tiered white fondant wedding cake
with rose topper
• Reception table with white linen & white
cushioned Chiavari chairs
• Private two-hour dinner reception with selection
from the plated menus and a premium bar,
non-alcoholic beverages including freshly
brewed coffee and a selection of herbal teas
On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine
at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of your choice
• $100 credit towards either a Private
candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach
or pool cabana
For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay
with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category
EPIC WEDDING PACKAGE
Applicable for 52 people or more
Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website
templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license
• 6th Room Free* when traveling with 5 paid
double rooms between Sept. 1 - Dec. 20
(up to 5 complimentary rooms)
• 12th Room Free* when 11 paid double rooms
travel between Jan. 2 - Aug. 31.
(up to 5 complimentary rooms)
Pre-Wedding Events
• One-hour private welcome cocktail
- Heavy hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• 2-hour private pre-wedding celebration dinner
• Wedding day treats : frozen fruit kabobs
& small bites with sparkling wine for bride
and groom (in-room while getting ready
on day of wedding)
During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding event team: event
coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for the
entire group (not applicable to retail items)
On Your Wedding Day
• $500 credit towards the Royal Romance
photography package
• $500 credit towards the Ultimate videography
package
At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• One speaker and one microphone
• Rose bouquet
• Rose boutonniere
• Rose bouquet for up to 2 members
of wedding party
• Rose boutonniere for up to 2 members
of wedding party
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs
At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Passed hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar, sparkling wine toast, signature
cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• Three-tiered white fondant wedding cake
with rose topper
• Reception table with white linen and whitecushioned Chiavari chairs
• Private two-hour dinner reception with selection
from the plated or buffet menus and a premium
bar, non-alcoholic beverages including freshly
brewed coffee and a selection of herbal teas
• One sweetheart table to include white linen,
standard place setting & 2 white-cushioned
Chiavari chairs
• Two-hour DJ entertainment
On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine
in resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of choice
• $100 Credit towards either a private
candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach
or pool cabana
For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay
with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category
RETIE THE KNOT PACKAGE
Applicable for up to 10 people.
Before You Arrive
• ReTie the Knot planning team
• Celebration gift registry and website templates
During Your Stay
• Onsite ReTie the Knot team: event
coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for bride
and groom (not applicable to retail items)
• One 5x7 photo print
• One keepsake gift
At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid bouquet
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid
boutonniere
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs
• ReTie the Knot commemorative certificate
At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Passed hors d' oeuvres
- Sparkling wine toast, signature cocktail,
and non-alcoholic beverages
• Single-tiered white fondant cake
with dendrobium topper
• Reception table with white linen
& white-cushioned Chiavari chairs
On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine
at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of choice
For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay
with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category
Some of our destination weddings
Sandals Grande, St. Lucia, Large Group, Destination Wedding
I wanted to share (with permission) these gorgeous pictures from a destination wedding 2 weekends ago we had the privilege of being a part of and booked by Lia. She chose this over the water wedding chapel in St. Lucia with friends and family there to help celebrate. I love her flower crown and her dress and how happy she is. Picture perfect. Congratulations Kate and Curtis! We are so happy for you!
Beaches Resort, Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Destination Wedding
Lia was very helpful for us in planning our destination wedding to Ocho Rios, Jamaica. We had gone through a few other travel planners first who didn't seem nearly as interested in our needs. We really appreciated the way Lia helped us navigate through some of the complexities, including the local laws of Jamaica and the planning with the resort itself. Even once we got to the resort and ran into a few snags, Lia was able to quickly get those resolved very quickly. We would highly recommend her for anyone planning a destination wedding or any other vacation. Thanks, Lia, for making our destination wedding the most special day of our lives.
Playa Del Carmen, Large Group, Destination Wedding
Wedding planning can be stressful and overwhelming, but if you're planning on having a destination wedding, especially with a large group, I would highly recommend using All Inclusive Weddings!
From beginning to end, they help with every step; i.e., finding the venue, creating a custom wedding website, and booking all your guests. Their office manager, Linze, was very responsive, helpful, and so sweet! Everything turned out smoothly and we couldn't be happier!
Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Destination Wedding
Stephanie was our incredible travel agent for our destination wedding! She helped with every aspect, quick communication and AMAZING coordination with over 50 different people over 8 states. Stephanie from the beginning, gave options and talked through so many questions I had. I could not have asked for a better right hand woman! 10 out of 10 for Steph, we could not appreciate & trust her more!
Incredible Agent For Our Destination Wedding! 10 Out Of 10 For Steph!
Such an amazing week of memories,laughter & love! Thankful for our people and truly blessed beyond words ♥ï¸â™¥ï¸
Royalton Blue Waters, Montego Bay, Jamaica, Destination Wedding
My husband and I worked with the company's owner, Lia Vincent, and office manager, Linze.
Lia & Linze were both very warm and friendly, and from day one, we could tell cared about us as a couple and our destination wedding success, rather than just seeing us as more clients. I get stressed out easily, so planning my own wedding alone was overwhelming, even though my wedding was 10 months out. I ended up working with Linze, and we pushed up the wedding date with a little less than three months to prepare. I was initially nervous about using a travel agent / wedding planner, but it turned out to be a huge blessing, because it took away a lot of the stress and worry I was experiencing. A bride has so many things to worry about, so having someone else bear the brunt of the work and worry about the nitty-gritty details was a HUGE relief for me.
Why spend hours analyzing vendors and reading reviews, when you can have a pro do it? If you want an intimate wedding, if you want to elope, or if you want a huge all-out, go-into-debt-for-years wedding, and if you're in the market for a wedding travel agent, Lia and Linze should be at the top of your list!
The day of the wedding, everything was so beautiful, and so much better than I could have done on my own. Lia's company finds the best local vendors, so you know you'll get great value in your package, and what's nice is her company offers different packages for different budgets. We worked with and met AMAZING vendors! The reception was so elegant that as soon as I entered the reception, I felt amazement, joy, and relief because being the worrywart and control freak that I sometimes can be, it was hard for me to trust someone to somehow make everything perfect. Lia was able to give us the dream wedding we couldn't have done ourselves. Our family and friends were also amazed, and repeatedly told us how great the wedding, reception, and food were at the resort.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Destination Wedding
I used Stephanie Tindall to help me choose the perfect resort in PV Mexico for where my guests would stay for my destination wedding. She went round and round with me helping me find the perfect location. It had to be nice, trendy, not to outrageously expensive and within a certain mile radius of a marina where my guests needed to go for the wedding. She helped everyone get booked and when things became a little hectic as tracking sometimes can get. She took care of the details. One of my guests had passport issues and she helped talk them through what to do. It was such a relief to have a point of contact for travel related issues so I didn't have to be stressed about it. She did this all with a patient, positive? upbeat and kind attitude through the entire process. I highly recommend her.
Thank you again,
Darby Brown
UNICO, Riviera Maya, Mexico Destination Wedding
Unico was wonderful and the perfect place for our wedding! It was quiet and the ceremony was better than expected. We had it on the gazebo and it was away from everything, which was great. The photography was beyond our expectations. We have not received our video yet, but assume it will be just as great. I also used the in house vendor for make up and hair, and was not disappointed. The wedding coordinator, Nazareth, was so sweet and on point. We used the local host quite a bit with WhatsApp, which was quite convenient. Food and drinks were amazing. We were disappointed that 2087 restaurant was down for half of our stay for repairs. We ate at Mi Carisa on our wedding night, which was the perfect choice. Service was also best there. We scheduled 2 tours through the hotel, a sunset cruise and Chichen Itza express. The boat tour was nice. Chichen itza tour was too fast and ok. We really appreciate your recommendations and help booking our wedding and stay. It was wonderful! Thank you again, Juliet and Jason
Hard Rock Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Destination Wedding
We just got back from an AMAZING wedding weekend yesterday. I can't begin to thank you enough for your help and support during the entire process. Everyone had a great time. It truly was one of the best days of my life and I can't believe how stress-free it was once I got there. Thank you Thank you!
Secrets Playa Mujeres, Mexico, Destination Wedding
I have never used a travel agent before Lia. I have always been the "I can do everything cheaper by myself on the internet" type person; most of the time, it works great. When my husband and I decided to have a destination wedding, we were not sure about anything - number of guests, length of stay, etc; we also have very demanding jobs, requiring constant travels up until the week before our wedding. So we thought that a travel agent may be a lifesaver; as it turned out, she was. Lia was endorsed as an expert in destination weddings on the American Express Travel website. Although she lived over a 1,000 miles away, I felt comfortable.
As I am not a "girly" person, wedding planning was not my thing; however, party planning and event coordination are. Lia and I treated this "event" like a business and I loved that about her; I needed someone to be truthful and provide honest advice. As it is with my job, I like corresponding via emails because I can have all the information on hand and in writing at all time; Lia always accommodated that, and always very promptly. I'm not talking about several emails over a few months; I'm talking about over the course of over a year. Lia was there to provide support when I had a hard time reach the wedding coordinator; she was there when I freaked out at the resort regarding my brother's return transportation (as it turned out, my brother spoke with the wrong transportation company); she was organized to be able to provide me with spreadsheet of all guest arrival information; she always submitted my requests to Classic Vacation and the resort promptly. James and I cannot thank Lia enough to make everything go smoothly for the biggest event of our lives. All 48 of us had such a great time that we absolutely see another group vacation in the future.
UNICO 2087, Riviera Maya, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Read the full details about this destination wedding in our blog post, Mark and Casey Simpsen's Destination Wedding at UNICO 2087. This couple was also featured in the UNICO 2087 Resort blog post, UNICO Destination Wedding, Casey Shelley & Mark Simpsen
Beach Palace Cancun, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Lia being referred to me saved me so much wedding planning mental anguish! I had tried with a few other travel agents before I had two different people give me Lia's name, and with each of the previous TAs they had to look into things and call me back (I'm still waiting for those calls). Getting in touch with Lia was a whole new experience, she answered all my initial questions in that first phone call, had so many recommendations, and it was obvious she knew exactly what she was doing. By the time we hung up the first phone call, I had decided on a destination and venue (per Lia's suggestion). She was a God send! A year later, we are still having people talk about what a great trip it was and people are always amazed by what a great turn out we had. We ended up with about 60 people, all booking through Lia and everyone had a flawless experience. One even asked for her name when planning her destination wedding a few months later and was just as pleased! Lia told me a lot through the planning process that I was such a laid-back bride, but it really was because she left me nothing to worry about. She answered any question I had, was always quick to respond to calls and emails, and helped me plan the most perfect wedding ever. I wish I could re-live it all again!!
Cozumel Palace, Mexico, Destination Wedding
My husband Cameron and I got married at the Cozumel Palace in June of 2014 and could not have been more happy with our experience. A destination wedding was definitely the way to go for us and Lia was a great asset in our planning.
Throughout the process we felt completely at ease as she handled some of the most important details of planning for this special time. From her first recommendations of resorts and destinations to her help arranging travel for our closest family and friends we always felt grateful having Lia on our side. We highly recommend Lia Vincent and Palace Resorts for your destination wedding!
Le Blanc Spa Resort, Destination Wedding
I am truly so grateful for you and all of your help! Le Blanc was amazing! NOTHING could have been better, except maybe the weather, but the staff, food, and service were above and beyond! We will definitely go back there!! Love, Love, Love you for all of your help - Can NOT thank you enough!!
Beach Palace, Cancun, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Our Dream Wedding!
Lia was a phenomenal help from the beginning. She was referred to me by a friend, and I was incredibly thankful that we used her. When we started planning, we became overwhelmed with all of the information that is available.
We met with her for about 45 minutes one afternoon, took her pictures of spaces we had seen online and liked, and gave her a list of our "must-haves", a list of things that would be nice but didn't matter too much, and a list of things we absolutely did NOT want. She kind of thought about things for a minute, and then listed 3 resorts that fit every single one of our needs. She then ran sample pricing from EVERY location our guests would be traveling from so we could figure out what best fit our and our guests' travel budgets. After about a million more questions from me, we finally settled on her initial recommendation, the Beach Palace in Cancun. As we went through the process, any time I had a question, problem, or was just worried about something not being right, she was my go-to person. I'm not kidding, she would answer me in like, less than an hour 99% of the time. She even took my file home one weekend to give me more time to figure something out before she ran credit cards and got it booked. She was a Godsend!
Riu Palace, Riviera Maya, Mexico, Destination Wedding
My husband Cameron and I got married at the Cozumel Palace in June of 2014 and could not have been more happy with our experience. A destination wedding was definitely the way to go for us and Lia was a great asset in our planning.
Lia with Lia helped us plan our destination wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico. We had a total of 11 people and she helped each of them set up their arrangements. From the beginning she was so helpful and always quick to respond. She made the entire process a breeze. She communicated with the wedding coordinator at the Riu Palace and made sure everything was just like we wanted. We did not have any issues at all, thanks to Lia and all of her thorough planning. Each of our guests bragged on her and said how easy it was to work with her. I would recommend Lia for all of your planning needs whether it be just a short vacation or a destination wedding. She knows what she is doing and will make sure all of your questions are answered and that you have the best vacation.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Destination Wedding
My husband and I got married in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico right off the beach. It was pure bliss, and everything I could have ever dreamed of! I may be biased, but destination weddings are certainly the way to go and thanks to our wonderful Travel Agent Lia Vincent at Vincent Vacations, we were able to find the perfect place! I had the opportunity to be able to edit the straight out of camera photos from my wedding! Here is a glimpse of our wedding day in paradise!
Iberostar, Grand Punta Cana, Destination Wedding
We had the most amazing time at our wedding. Our guests are still talking about what an amazing trip it was! Thank you for your help with organizing this unforgettable time for us, we cannot wait to put our pictures in our new frame!
Dreams, Puerto Aventuras Resort, Destination Wedding
Lia, thank you very much for all of your help with our PERFECT wedding vacation!
Excellence, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Destination Wedding
"It was beautiful! Everybody had a fantastic time!"
The staff was wonderful, the rooms were gorgeous, and the food was AMAZING! Our wedding could not have been more perfect and if you have any brides that want a beautiful wedding on a budget, The Excellence Punta Cana would be my number one recommendation. Emy and Livia were fantastic and everything was just PERFECT! Chris couldn't even believe how wonderful it was.
Thank you again for all of your help!!!
Dreams, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Destination Wedding
Our Dream Wedding!
As soon as Jimmy asked me to marry him, I knew we would want a destination wedding. We love to travel, and we love the beach, so there was no more perfect place to start our lives together than a beach in Mexico!
I am not the wedding planning type, and I knew that with a destination wedding, we could get someone else to plan the details for us. Luckily for me, my friend Lia at Vincent Vacations specializes in Destination Weddings. Lia had taken care of trips for us in the past, and I knew she was the perfect person to help me plan this trip. I was right! She helped me look through destinations, and we found the perfect spot: Dreams in Puerto Vallarta! The package came with a wedding planner, who took care of the details for me. 21 of our friends and family came with us, and everyone loved the resort. Our party ranged in age from 7 to 82, and everyone agreed it was an amazing trip. There were activities for the kids, and plenty of excursions for everyone to choose from. The staff was wonderful, and pampered us from the time we arrived. One of my bridesmaids had a broken foot and was on crutches, and was in a wheelchair some. The hotel staff assisted her anytime she needed it, including carrying her and her wheelchair up and down large flights of stairs. They were amazing! All the rooms are ocean front, with beautiful views. Jimmy and I stayed in the "Preferred" tower, and our room came with a great balcony with a hot tub! Most of our guests stayed in the other tower, but the resort is small enough, this was not a problem at all. They all loved their rooms as well. The wedding planner met with me in advance to work out the last minute details and timing. When our wedding day came, everything went perfectly. We got married on the beach right in front of the ocean. We had a sound system and a dj who played all the songs that we picked out in advance. My Dad is a minister, and he performed the service for us. We had 21 in our wedding party, but it felt like a much bigger wedding because lots of people watched the wedding. You could see people everywhere on their balconies watching, which made us feel like rock stars. We had a Mexican band that played a few songs after the wedding. The wedding came with a photographer and videographer who did amazing job! We took pictures right after the wedding, then we had dinner which also came with the wedding. We had steak and chicken which tasted great. Of course, I also asked them for chips and guacamole. (I love the guacamole in Mexico.) They were happy to oblige. They provided the wedding cake after which was amazing. After the wedding, my husband and I stayed for another 4 days, and it was paradise. I could not have asked for a more beautiful place to get married, or a less stressful way to do it. Thanks Lia and Vincent Vacations for making our special day an amazingly unforgettable experience!
Jamaica, Destination Wedding
Love the pictures one of our brides just shared from her elopement in Jamaica! Thank you for sharing with us! Did you know we book Destination weddings of all sizes? If it's just the 2 of you or a group of 250, give us a call!
Grand Fiesta Americana, Los Cabos, Mexico, Destination Wedding
This was the best and easiest decision we made about our entire wedding! Lia at All Inclusive Weddings is the absolute best, extremely intelligent, hard working, and so caring. She truly makes you feel like you are her only client throughout the entire process. We had about 120 people coming to our Cabo wedding and even had to switch resorts, visitors coming from all different states and even Europe. She was calm, and kept the bride and groom calm! Every detail was taken care of and it was made to be the most perfect wedding!
Finest, Playa Mujeres, Mexico, Destination Wedding
I just wanted to thank you for all your hard work to arrange the hotel and transfers for Ashley and Robbie's wedding. It was perfect and everything that she had ever dreamed of! The resort was amazing! We had great food at all the restaurants. The staff went over the top to accommodate any needs that you could have had! Everyone felt safe and the beaches are beautiful. Since it's more private you don't get the crazy vendors walking the beach trying to sell you stuff. Our family loved it so much and we defiantly will be planning another vacation. You will be the first I call if we need help to organize something! Thank you again for everything
We have been in business since 2013, and booking destination weddings since 2002!
Contact us today to learn more about All Inclusive Weddings!
