The 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards have long been regarded as a beacon of excellence in the diving community. This prestigious annual event allows avid divers from around the world to cast their votes for their favorite diving destinations, resorts, and operators. The 2024 edition marked yet another unforgettable year because Curaçao, not only dominates, but our Dutch Caribbean Island is recognized as one of the best destinations in the world of scuba diving.

The world of scuba diving has its crowned jewels, and one of them is undoubtedly Curaçao. This Dutch Caribbean island, nestled between Aruba and Bonaire, has once again proven its mettle in the scuba diving world, securing an impressive array of 23 awards in the 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards. But what makes these awards so significant? Let’s dive into this remarkable achievement, celebrating the triumphant wins of Curaçao, Ocean Encounters, and LionsDive Beach Resort.

The 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards

The Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards are an annual event that allows divers from around the globe to cast their votes and voice their preferences regarding dive destinations, dive shops, and dive resorts. Organized by the scuba diving industry’s most reputable publication, Scuba Diving Magazine, these awards carry immense prestige and influence within the diving community.

The Significance of the 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards

In the ever-competitive world of scuba diving, these awards serve as a testament to excellence and a barometer of quality. Winning in the Reader’s Choice Awards is a true measure of recognition, showcasing the winners as the best of the best, as chosen by the divers themselves. The 2024 edition is no different, as Curaçao, Ocean Encounters, and LionsDive Beach Resort have stood out, capturing the hearts of divers worldwide.

2024 Scuba Diving Reader's Choice Awards: Curaçao Wins Big!

Curaçao dominated again with Top 5 rankings

For several consecutive years, Curaçao, nestled between Aruba and Bonaire, has proven it is a world-class scuba diving destination. In the 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards, this captivating island secured a myriad of accolades, reaffirming its dominance in the world of underwater exploration. Notably, Curaçao clinched the #2 spot for Best Shore Diving Destination and the #3 spot for Best Snorkeling Destination, solidifying its position as a top-tier underwater paradise.

Furthermore, Curaçao dominated again with Top 5 rankings in multiple categories, including Best Overall Dive Destination, Best Beginner Dive Destination, Best Macro Life, Underwater Photography, and Health of Marine Environment. Additionally, the island made it to the Top 10 in Wall Diving, Advanced Diving, and Best Value.



Ocean Encounters: The Apex of Dive Operation Excellence

Curaçao’s dominance extends to the realm of dive operations. Among the dive operators, Ocean Encounters, a distinguished PADI and SSI Dive Shop based in Curaçao, has risen to the occasion and shone brightly.

Ocean Encounters displayed a commitment to safety and excellence, securing a well-deserved #2 spot for Attention to Safety. But the accolades didn’t stop there. They were also recognized for their exceptional facilities and staff, securing the #3 position in both Quality of Facilities and Quality of Staff.

Dominating further, Ocean Encounters earned a coveted spot as the Top 5 for Best Overall Dive Center in the Caribbean. In addition, they received a Top 10 recognition for their Quality of Boats, Rental Gear, and for their Quality of Training and Courses.

Jeremiah Peek, Managing Director of Ocean Encounters, expressed his delight in this achievement, saying, “We are thrilled to be a part of Curaçao’s success story. The 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards highlight our commitment to providing the ultimate dive experience. We are deeply grateful to our team for their hard work and dedication and all the divers who recognized their efforts.”

Ocean Encounters provides the ultimate dive vacation experience in Curaçao
Ocean Encounters, located at LionsDive Beach Resort, is a Premier PADI/SSI Dive Shop offering Multi-Day Diving Packages

LionsDive Beach Resort: Exemplifying Dive Resort Excellence

LionsDive Beach Resort, a jewel in Curaçao’s crown, stood tall in the 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards, further solidifying the island’s dominance in the diving world. They secured a #3 spot for Quality of Dive Resort and a Top 5 position for Best Overall Dive Resort in the Caribbean. Further accolades included Top 10 positions for their Quality of Staff, Quality of Rooms and overall Dive Resort Value. The high quality of their restaurants was an additional feather in their cap.

Mimi Luttge, General Manager of LionsDive Beach Resort, expressed her gratitude for the accolades, stating, “We are truly honored to have our resort acknowledged by the scuba diving community. These awards underscore our commitment to providing an exceptional experience for all our guests.”


Thank you for Voting in the 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards

To all those who participated in the 2024 Scuba Diving Reader’s Choice Awards voting process, we extend our heartfelt thanks. Your contribution was instrumental in recognizing and celebrating the absolute dominance of Curaçao in the scuba diving community.

Start Planning Your Scuba Diving Vacation to Curaçao

With its captivating underwater landscapes, vibrant marine life, and award-winning dive operators and resorts, Curaçao dominates as the ultimate scuba diving destination. Whether you’re part of a dive group, a family, or an individual seeking an unparalleled underwater adventure, Curaçao promises an experience that exceeds expectations.

Don’t wait any longer; contact our reservations team at Dive Travel Curaçao to start planning your scuba diving vacation to Curaçao today. We can’t wait to welcome you to our Dutch Caribbean paradise!


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