Craving a Caribbean escape that offers more than turquoise waters?

In this episode of the Know Where You Want to Go Travel Podcast, host Cam DeJong chats with Mark Pinnell from The Dive Bus Curacao—one of the island’s most beloved dive operations.

Whether you’re an experienced diver, a beginner, or just curious about what makes Curaçao unique, you’ll get insider tips on why this Dutch Caribbean gem is especially welcoming, what sets its reefs apart, and how you can make the most of a cruise stop or land-based visit.

Plus, we reveal our favorite eats, activities, and beaches—and share why Curaçao should be at the top of your travel wishlist.

Show Notes:

Special Guest:

Mark Pinnell, co-founder of The Dive Bus Curacao

Topics Covered:

Mark’s journey from the Bahamas to building The Dive Bus into the island’s top-rated dive experience

Why Curaçao is the “unhidden” gem of the Caribbean, especially for divers

Comparisons with Bonaire and Aruba: accessibility, reefs, activities, and family-friendly features

Insider tips for cruise ship visitors (what to do if you only have a few hours!)

How newbie divers can feel comfortable and safe with shore diving at The Dive Bus

Mark’s favorite spots for food—including fish restaurants, local markets, and the food truck culture

Activities and must-see historic highlights in Willemstad, from the floating bridge to UNESCO sites

How to book your Curaçao adventure—whether you want to dive in for a day or totally immerse yourself

Featured Links:

The Dive Bus Curacao: https://thedivebus.com

CamJon Travel: https://camjontravel.com

Book Your Virgin Voyages Cruise (special link): https://www.virginvoyages.com/?agentId=38927&agencyId=589

Quick Highlights:

Curaçao’s shore diving is accessible and perfect for beginners; advanced divers love the variety (Mark recommends the local house reef and, for those with more time, the stunning “Superior Producer” wreck)

Outside the water: Try local seafood by the weight, visit community markets (Marshe Bieu), or just soak up history downtown

The Dive Bus team is known for humor, comfort, personal service, and great equipment—making repeat divers feel at home

Connect & Book:

Want more advice or ready to plan your trip? Reach out via CamJon Travel and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Discover The Dive Bus on Instagram, Facebook, and their website!

Show Notes: Know Where You Want to Go Travel Podcast
Episode 32: Safety First – The Top 5 Safest Caribbean Cruise Destinations for 2025
Host: Cam DeJong
(Aug 22, 2025)

Episode Summary:
In this special episode—also our first video podcast!—Cam DeJong dives into the crucial topic of safety for your Caribbean travels, especially when cruising. Cam breaks down a new top 5 list (with a tie for third place!) of the safest Caribbean destinations for 2025, based on a study by Always All Inclusive. He explores what “safety” means in travel—not just crime rates but also hurricane exposure, healthcare, and even port logistics—and emphasizes the importance of always using common sense, no matter where you go.

You’ll also hear insights into why certain islands made the list, specific port experiences, as well as a sneak peek into Cam’s upcoming group cruise itinerary! If you’re planning a Caribbean vacation or just want to travel smarter and safer, this episode is packed with helpful info and honest perspective.

Links to Places & Resources Mentioned:

• Always All Inclusive (Source of Top 10 Safety List) – Always All Inclusive

• Antigua and Barbuda (Ranked #5, Calm beaches, regulated tourism) – Visit Antigua and Barbuda

• Grenada (Tied #3, Relaxed vibe, manageable ports) – Pure Grenada

• Curaçao (Tied #3, Walkable, outside hurricane belt) – Curacao.com

• Barbados (Ranked #2, Well-organized tourism, strong healthcare) – Visit Barbados

• Aruba (Ranked #1, Low risk, strong infrastructure, outside hurricane zone) – Aruba.com

• Saint Martin (Bonus mention, wonderful island) – Saint Martin Tourism

• Cam’s Upcoming Group Cruise + More Info: CamJonTravel.com

Key Takeaways:

• Safety isn’t just about crime—consider weather, healthcare, and port experiences.

• Top 5 safest Caribbean cruise destinations for 2025:

  1. Antigua and Barbuda

  2. Barbados

  3. (tie) Grenada & Curaçao

  4. Aruba

• Always use common sense, even in the safest destinations.

• Cam will be visiting Aruba, Curaçao, and Antigua in January—join the group cruise!

Special Thanks:
Thanks to Always All Inclusive for their research and to everyone who’s supported the podcast. Stay tuned for the next travel-packed episode!

Want to cruise with Cam or join the conversation? Visit CamJonTravel.com to learn more!

In this episode, Cam dives into the latest updates from Virgin Voyages, focusing on three key topics: the 2025 Eat & Drink Festival across Virgin’s lady ships, group celebrations and event travel (including their unique “circles” program), and the expansion of longer cruise itineraries. Expect details about fun new culinary experiences, group perks, and why now is a fantastic time to set sail—whether you want a quick getaway or an immersive holiday at sea.

What to Expect:

• "A Taste of Brilliant" theme inspired by the upcoming Brilliant Lady ship.

  
  

• Featured Ships:

  • Scarlet Lady

  • Valiant Lady

  • Resilient Lady

    
    

• Event Highlights:

  
  

  • Culinary inspirations from New York City, Miami, Los Angeles, and Seattle

  • Passport to Eat & Drink guide—city-inspired dishes and prizes

  • Themed speakeasy bars and master mixology classes

  • Four-course Spirited Dinner Series & test kitchen demos

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  Virgin Voyages Festival Info:

  
  

  Virgin Voyages – Eat & Drink Festival

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  Program Highlights:

  
  

  • Circles: Flexible group holds with no obligation—great for families, clubs, hobby groups, and reunions

  • Group Travel: For larger parties (8+ cabins), with perks like 10% off, bar credit, group dining, event spaces (where available)

  • Weddings at Sea: All-inclusive wedding planning, from intimate ceremonies to full-scale packages

• 
  

  More Info:

  
  

  Virgin Voyages Groups & Events

• 
  

  What’s New:

  
  

  Virgin Voyages is expanding its longer sailings—think 7, 8, 10-night (and beyond!) itineraries, offering more time to explore both the ship and ports, especially in Europe.

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  Perfect for:

  
  

  Those seeking a more immersive cruise experience beyond a quick getaway.

  
  

• Explore Itineraries:

  
  

  Virgin Voyages Destinations

  
  

• Learn More:

  
  

• • Contact CamJon Travel

  • Read the CamJon Travel Blog

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• Don’t forget to like, subscribe, or follow us wherever you get your podcasts! If you have feedback or episode suggestions, let us know through our website.

  
  

  Thanks for traveling with us and tuning in to Virgin Voyages updates! See you next episode.