FAQs

Where exactly is Baja?

Baja is a peninsula off the west coast of mainland Mexico just south of California. It is divided into the two states of Baja California Norte and Baja California Sur. We'll be diving in the Gulf of California, which is also known as the Sea of Cortez.

Is the diving difficult?

Although we wouldn't characterize the diving as "difficult", many of the dives are drift dives which requires better buoyancy control and a good comfort level underwater. We require participants on the Baja Blue Water Scuba trip to be certified before the trip begins.

Other than diving, what will we be doing?

We take time out from diving to take advantage of the fantastic sea kayaking in the Sea of Cortez. We'll also do some hiking into the mountains, take a surfing clinic, play on beautiful beaches, go fishing and take some time to check out some of the picturesque towns in the areas we travel.

What will I eat?

On Baja Blue Water Scuba we eat a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and fish. There will be plenty of vegetarian options in addition to opportunities to sample local cuisine. Our meals are usually prepared Mexican style, with tacos, fajitas, etc.

Where will I sleep?

We're on the move on this trip, so we'll have a variety of accommodations including small hotels, a specially outfitted live-aboard dive boat and tents when we camp on Espiritu Santo Island and at surfing camp.

Do I need to speak Spanish to go on this trip?

Our local guides speak both English and Spanish. You don't have to speak Spanish to join the trip but you might pick up a few fun phrases while traveling!

What is the landscape like?

When you are not in the ocean, you'll have the chance to explore Baja's dramatic landscape, famous for rugged mountains, amazing desert plants, swimming holes and rugged coastline.

Will I see any marine mammals?

Baja is famous for the marine mammals that grace its shoreline. We will certainly see sea lions. Also, students frequently spot dolphins and whales near the dive boat so keep your eyes peeled!

What if I've never been diving before?

No problem. Many of our diving programs are designed for those with little or no diving experience. Your instructor will teach you one step at a time, at your own pace. Diving is easy and fun! If you are an experienced diver, you can select one of our advanced diving programs.

How much diving will I do? What if I want to do fewer or more dives?

Every program offers a different diving schedule, ranging from 10 - 30+ dives. If you'd like to do fewer dives, that's ok, because there are often several dives that are optional. On the other hand, if you and your group are really into diving, you may be able to fit in even more dives, depending on the program.

Other then diving, what activities will I do?

It wouldn't be Broadreach without a diversity of experiences! Examples of other activities include snorkeling, waterskiing, wake boarding, knee boarding, rainforest hiking, community service, visiting historical and cultural points of interest, learning about important conservation issues at marine reserves, and exploring local villages and markets.

How deep will I dive?

Most of our dives will be shallow, between 35 and 55 feet, because that's where we'll find the right combination of best dive sites, plentiful marine life and brightest light. You will do a few supervised deeper dives to around 85 to 100 feet when you are ready for students 15 and older. For students under 15, your maximum depth will be 70ft.

Can I call home?

Of course! Depending on the itinerary of the program, most participants have the opportunity to call home about once a week. Most families also follow our trip journal updates which are short group updates written by teens or staff.

Do most participants come with friends? What if I don't know anyone?

Actually, most participants come alone, so there is no need to be concerned! It's normal to be apprehensive about not knowing anyone, but within a day of starting your program you'll be laughing and sharing exciting adventures with new friends.

I'm nervous about traveling alone! Is travel day difficult?

Travel day is generally easy and problem-free. After years of practice we have discovered ways to make this day run smoothly for everyone. The questions and answers in this section should put to rest most of your concerns about traveling to your Broadreach program.

What if I've never done this kind of thing before?

No worries. Many of our participants are 'first-timers' who have never been scuba diving or slept in the wilderness for more than a weekend. All we ask is that you come with an open mind, a desire to try new things and be ready to have lots of fun.

What is the male/female ratio?

Our ideal ratio for every program is 50/50 and we try to come close to just that. Some courses tend to attract more males than females, or vice versa, but typically the balance is close to even and not a concern. In our experience, the gender ratio plays a small role in the success of each program.

How do your programs compare with other teen educational travel programs?

Put simply, no other program can boast the same combination of small groups, diverse cultural experiences, life-long skill building, hands-on education and outdoor adventure. Unlike teen tours with set schedules and activities, Broadreach programs are flexible and involve you in all aspects of the experience. You are asked to take responsibility and few things are done for you. We have specific goals, but how the adventure unfolds depends on you and your group. We need everyone's participation, cooperation and leadership to make it happen.

Do I need trip, travel or medical insurance ?

All participants on Broadreach programs are required medical insurance including coverage for international medical care. Since many personal medical policies do not cover international medical care and evacuations or have exclusions for certain sports, we have partnered with Trip Mate to offer a choice of travel insurance plans for our participants.
The minimum required policy includes coverage for medical care, emergency evacuation, lost or damaged luggage, travel delay, etc.
Most families also take advantage of our recommended tuition protection coverage , which offers 75% tuition refund FOR ANY REASON up to 72 hours before your trip departure and 100% tuition refund if you cancel for a covered reason.

Can I call home while I am on a Broadreach program?

Of course! Depending on the itinerary of the program, most participants have the opportunity to call home about once a week. Most families also follow our online trip updates which are short blog entries written by program participants or staff during the trip.

Do you have any family discounts?

We do. We will give a 5% discount on the second (and any subsequent) enrollment in one summer. This offer is available to an individual student, or siblings. The 5% discount will be applied to the program of lesser cost, and cannot be combined with any other discounts.

Can you give me the names of other families in my area that have done Broadreach?

Absolutely. Just call the office and we can put you in touch with past participants who have done the trips that interest you. Broadreachers past and present are part of a strong community that’s always there for one another. No need to be shy either, people will be glad to hear from you.

Do most participants come alone or with friends?

Most participants come alone, so there is no need to be concerned if you don't know anyone else on your program. It's normal to be apprehensive about not knowing anyone, but within a day of starting your program you'll be laughing and sharing exciting adventures with new friends.

I've never done this type of trip before. Is any experience required?

Don't worry! Many of our participants are 'first-timers' who have never been scuba diving or slept in the wilderness for more than a weekend. All we ask is that you come with an open mind, a desire to try new things and be ready to have lots of fun.

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Please feel free to call the Broadreach office if you have any questions or would like to discuss our adventures. We’d love to talk to you! You can also email us at questions@gobroadreach.com

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