The people behind Grand Bay of the Sea
A family-run PADI dive center sharing the reefs of Punta Cana with divers from around the world.
Built on a love for the ocean
Grand Bay of the Sea was founded by divers who fell in love with the waters of the Dominican Republic and wanted to share them the right way — safely, personally, and with genuine care for the reef.
From our base on Carretera Cabeza de Toro, we run small-group dives, trips, and PADI courses for everyone from first-timers taking their first breath underwater to seasoned divers chasing walls, wrecks, and sharks. Because we keep groups small, every guest gets real attention from an experienced guide.
We're proud to be a verified PADI dive center with a 4.8-star reputation built one great dive at a time.
Meet your dive crew
Certified professionals who know these waters intimately — and love introducing new people to them.
Franklin Santos
Franklin is the founder and manager of Grand Bay of the Sea and a certified PADI instructor with 18 years in the diving world. He brings deep expertise in dive safety, training, and recreational dive operations. Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, he welcomes divers from all over the world. Professional, dependable, and safety-focused, Franklin is committed to making every experience well-organized and memorable.
James Karnes
James is a certified PADI dive instructor who manages everything on the digital side of Grand Bay of the Sea. He built and maintains the website and handles online bookings and communications, so he's usually the first person you'll hear from when planning your dives. His diving background means he understands exactly what guests need before they arrive, helping make every booking clear, smooth, and well-organized from the very first message.
Katherine Marroquín
Katherine is a PADI dive instructor with six years of experience. She speaks Spanish and English and has a warm, fun, and approachable style that puts divers at ease — especially first-timers taking their very first breaths underwater. Her enthusiasm and professionalism turn every dive into a safe and unforgettable adventure.
José Enrique
José is a divemaster with six years of experience in the diving world. Reliable, efficient, and attentive, he speaks Spanish and English and communicates clearly with divers of all backgrounds. His focus on safety and service makes every dive smooth, enjoyable, and secure.
Alexander
Alexander is a dive boat captain with a lifetime of experience at sea. His knowledge of navigation and sea conditions keeps every trip safe and well-run. He speaks Spanish and is known for his fun, friendly, and easygoing personality, creating a great atmosphere on board throughout each adventure.
Fraylin Santos
Fraylin is a dive boat captain who learned the trade working alongside his father, Franklin Santos. Efficient, capable, and safety-minded, he speaks both Spanish and English, allowing him to connect with divers of many nationalities. His knowledge of the sea and positive attitude help make every outing safe and enjoyable.
Bolívar (Felipe Antonio)
Bolívar is our driver, with more than 30 years of experience behind the wheel. Responsible, punctual, and with an excellent knowledge of the area, he ensures a safe and comfortable transfer for our guests from the start of the day to the very end.
Our values
Safety first
Rigorous protocols, well-maintained gear, and certified guides on every dive.
Small groups
Personal attention and a relaxed pace — never a crowded cattle-boat dive.
Reef respect
We dive responsibly and teach every guest to protect the ecosystems we love.
Real expertise
Local knowledge of every site, condition, and season — so you see the best.
Come dive with us
Whether it's your first breath underwater or your thousandth dive, we'd love to show you the reefs we call home.