I decided to get my dive certification before we arrive-(april 3-10) My local dive shop suggested taking the open dives in sp. My husband is already certified. Who would be the best for us to use?
thanks in advance
Nancy

Amigos Del Mar. Talk to Melanie. They've done the OW referrals for most of our friends over the past 5-6 years.

ChooChoo
Should I call them before we arrive for reservations?
thanks Nancy

You can call them, but they'll say something like, "No problem, just bring your referral letter with you and we'll take care of things when you get here."

And they will.

Great people at Amigos.

I totally agree. Amigos del mar is the best.
hope you have a great time.

Why not check the PADI website for all the alternatives? There are some excellent ones. It might be an idea to look at those which are reasonably near your hotel, as although pickups are usually available it's less flexible than just strolling over.

Thanks everyone for your recommendations.
Pedro2 checked out the padi website also. All seem to be near town. We are staying at Portofino which seems to be far from all.??
Thanks nancy

Belize Academy of Divers who are based at Costa Maya Resort and just up the beach from Portofino are, I believe, Portofino's chosen dive operator and would be an excellent choice. They have a really good reputation and excellent boats and kit. Try a search on them or CMR, where there have been many complimentary remarks.

Ditto RE Amigos Del Mar... They are top knotch in every way. We have a number of friends who have done 'resort' courses or open water cert dives w/ them, all of whom were made to feel comfortable, confident and had a great diving experience. I would not worry too much about proximity, you're only a 15-20 min boat ride from town.

Thanks everyone again for all your helpful insight
We are going to use amigo's. Can't wait. How lucky am I, my first dive experience in Belize.
Wow!!!
Nancy