News
Dive Tourism Pioneers Honored by Cayman Government at Heroes Ceremony
Other dive industry professionals recognized for long service to the Cayman Islands tourism product
Dive and hospitality pioneers Bob Soto and Ms. Hebe Connors (Briggs) were honored by the Cayman Islands government as early tourism heroes in a January celebration in George Town’s Heroes Square. Several hundred people were recognized as tourism contributors, but only a few were distinguished as heroes of the industry.
Bob Soto started recreational diving in Cayman, and Ms. Hebe housed his dive customers in guest rooms at her seaside cottage on outskirts of George Town. Mr. Soto became one of the best-known names in diving, and Ms. Hebe’s guest house became Sunset House, now one of the Caribbean’s best-known dive resorts.
“She was a strong woman who worked hard to support us, so I’m glad to see her honored for that hard work,” said her son Adrien Briggs, who was also recognized as a tourism pioneer at the ceremony. In addition to Sunset House, Briggs also owns Red Sail Sports, a top dive operator, and the Rum Point Club, a popular island beach attraction.
“I am honored at the recognition, but I know there are many other people who deserve recognition for their contributions to dive tourism as well,” said Mr. Briggs.
Diving and watersports are key components of Cayman’s tourism product — surveys reveal that 1 in 8 visitors will dive, the rest snorkel and go to the beach.
Neil van Niekerk, Administrations Manager of the Southern Cross Club in Little Cayman and former President of the Sister Islands Tourism Association, was named an emerging pioneer.
“I’m deeply honored – it’s an amazing award,” he said. Van Niekerk is also active in the watersports division of the Cayman Islands Tourism Association, helping steer the island’s dive industry into the future.
“Neil would be a rising star wherever he worked,” commented Peter Hillenbrand, owner of the Southern Cross Club, himself recognized for long service to tourism. “The fact that he continues to be dedicated to the sustainable growth of the Cayman Islands tourism product is a great asset to me and my business as well as the Cayman Islands.”
Ron Kipp, who owned Bob Soto’s Diving for many years, was honored as a tourism pioneer. Cayman’s “Stingray Man” Pat Kenney, credited as co-founder of the deeper Stingray City dive, one of the most popular tourism attractions, was among the honorees for long service to tourism.
“I’m grateful and honored to be among the large group who were recognized for our years of service in the tourism industry,” he said.
Walter Findlay, a long-time watersports manager with Red Sail Sports, was also at the celebration receiving kudos for his long service to tourism.
“I am extremely grateful and honored to be recognized,” said Findlay, who has been on the frontline with Cayman tourists for almost 25 years. “I find tourism a natural fit because I enjoy talking to people and helping them, and that’s a reflection on Red Sail Sports and the services that we give.”
Customer service is one of the reasons Cayman is today a vacation hotspot, as are its variety of accommodations, world-class restaurants, superb diving, and professional dive services. It’s come a long way from the day a seaplane landed in the waters of George Town with the first visitors 70 years ago. In 2016, 385,451 visitors arrived by air in the Cayman Islands, 80% of them from the U.S. More than half are expected to return because, per exit surveys, their experience was very good compared to other Caribbean destinations they have visited. Good news for a tourism industry expecting a banner year in 2017.
Peter Hillenbrand sums up the dedication of all those who work to make the Cayman Islands the best tourist destination.
“I am looking forward to the future and continuing to be involved in moving Cayman’s tourism product and conservation efforts forward,” he said.
Who We Are
BTM Travel is a boutique dive travel agency based in Munich, Germany, led by a passionate team of seasoned diving professionals.
- Marcel Wilpernig, our founder, has explored nearly every corner of the underwater world and brings over a decade of experience in the diving industry.
- Tim De Deygere, our product manager, made the bold leap from a successful law career to follow his true passion—diving.
- Simona Hlavova is the backbone of BTM Travel, ensuring smooth operations with her expertise in administration and sales.
While a significant portion of our clientele comes from Germany, our reach extends globally—from Bangladesh to California. BTM Travel is closely connected to Behind the Mask, an underwater videography network that inspires us to bring divers to the world’s most breathtaking ocean destinations.
What We Do
BTM Travel specializes in group diving adventures and tailored big animal experiences:
- Group Travel: We organize intimate trips to premier dive spots, led by expert photographers or wildlife guides for an unforgettable adventure. The vibe? Laid-back and adrenaline-filled.
- Tailor-Made Trips: For seasoned divers, we craft bespoke itineraries, offering insider tips on where to go, when to go, and what to expect. Our expertise ensures realistic expectations and unforgettable experiences.
Our focus lies on big animal diving, delivering the thrill of encounters with marine giants. While we love macro and reef diving, we know our true strength lies in providing high-octane experiences for adventurers.
What Makes Us Different
We take a fresh look at traditional diving industry practices, challenging outdated habits to better serve modern-day customers.
- Authenticity First: We only recommend destinations we trust, avoiding overselling places that don’t offer great value or quality.
- Heartfelt Advice: Our honest approach resonates with clients, building lasting relationships and unforgettable journeys.
Our Mission
Helping divers explore the places we love is not just our job—it’s our passion. Our goal is to remain small, authentic, and dedicated to delivering exceptional dive travel experiences.
Find Out More
For more information about itineraries, destinations, and bespoke dive adventures, contact BTM Travel:
Email: info@behind-the-mask.com
Call: +49 (0) 176 55771225
Website: www.behind-the-mask.com
News
Dive into Adventure: Limited Space Available for January Socorro Liveaboard Trip with Oyster Diving
Socorro Giant Mantas, Sharks and Dolphins – 8-16th January 2025
Oyster Diving is offering an unforgettable opportunity to experience one of the world’s most extraordinary dive destinations – Socorro Island. With only one male space left for this January’s liveaboard adventure, divers are invited to join an exclusive trip to explore the waters of Socorro, renowned for its remarkable marine life and incredible dive experiences.
Unmatched Diving in Socorro
Socorro is home to a unique population of giant oceanic mantas that actively seek interaction with divers and snorkelers, making it one of the best places in the world to encounter these majestic creatures. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – the waters surrounding Socorro are also teeming with marine life, including schooling hammerheads and silky sharks, over 10 other species of sharks, playful bottlenose dolphins that love to interact with divers, large schools of pelagic fish, and, during the season, humpback whales.
Luxury Aboard the Nautilus Belle Amie
Diving in such an extraordinary location is made even more special by the Nautilus Belle Amie. Launched in 2015, this modern, spacious liveaboard yacht is designed with divers in mind, ensuring comfort and luxury throughout the trip. The boat offers various suite options, including twin rooms and superior double suites, all with the ambiance of a boutique hotel. Divers will spend 8 days aboard the Belle Amie, with all meals, guided dives, and soft drinks included.
Pricing and Availability
This exclusive Socorro liveaboard trip is available for the following prices:
- Twin Room (2 people sharing a Stateroom): £3360 per person
- Superior Double Suite (2 people sharing): £3860 per person
Both prices include Socorro Island fees. A port fee of $35 is payable upon arrival.
Additional Costs:
- Return economy flights: Approx. £1,000 – £1,300 per person (prices confirmed prior to booking)
- One night hotel B&B accommodation before the liveaboard: Approx. £100 per person
Book Now
With only one spot left, this opportunity to explore Socorro’s spectacular underwater world is sure to fill up fast. Interested divers are encouraged to get in touch with Oyster Diving Holidays to secure their place today.
For more information and bookings, please contact:
Oyster Diving Holidays
Phone: 0800 699 0243
Email: info@oysterdiving.com
Don’t miss your chance to dive with mantas, sharks, dolphins, and humpbacks in one of the world’s most pristine marine environments!
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