Native Sons Dive Shop

Native Sons Dive Shop is situated in West End, Roatan, a central hub for divers on the island. The shop is deeply integrated into the local marine environment, as its owners are among the founders of the Roatan Marine Park.

This connection to conservation defines the centre's approach to diving. You can expect a professional operation that prioritises the health of the reef systems you will be exploring throughout your stay.

The centre is run by individuals with a profound commitment to marine conservation. Their involvement in the establishment of the Roatan Marine Park ensures that the local ecosystems are understood and respected by the entire team.

As a PADI affiliated centre, they provide a structured and reliable educational environment. Whether you are starting your journey with a Discover Scuba Diving course or working towards your Divemaster certification, the instruction follows established international standards.

Native Sons offers a comprehensive curriculum of PADI training programmes. For those new to the water, they conduct Discover Scuba Diving, Scuba Diver, and Open Water Diver courses, including Open Water Referral options.

Experienced divers can progress through Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and eventually the Divemaster level. The centre also provides EFR Emergency First Response training to ensure you have the necessary safety skills to complement your diving.

The centre operates two vessels to reach the dive sites. The Uba Isti is a 48-foot boat, locally constructed and designed for speed and space. It is equipped with a 465 hp diesel inboard engine, making it ideal for longer trips across the water.

For shorter runs or different requirements, the Bidigum is available, powered by an 85 hp Yamaha engine. The Uba Isti is particularly well-suited for extended outings, featuring an onboard cabin and toilets for your comfort during the trip.

The reefs around West End are home to a high density of reef fish, including blue parrotfish and various species of snapper (Lutjanidae). You will frequently encounter large groupers (Epinephelinae), barracuda (Sphyraena), and schools of jack (Carangidae) patrolling the water column.

The hard and soft coral structures provide a complex habitat for much of the local life. You can observe brain coral (Diploria), pillar coral, sea whips, and various gorgonians (Gorgonacea), alongside barrel sponges and elephant ear sponges.

For those interested in macro life, the area offers plenty of detail. Look out for nudibranchs (Chromodoris willani), seahorses (Hippocampus), and various crustaceans such as spiny lobster (Palinuridae) and cleaner shrimp (Lysmata). You may also spot scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae), octopus (Octopus vulgaris), and pea-sized creatures like pygmy filefish.

Larger pelagics also visit these waters. It is possible to see spotted eagle rays (Aetobatus narinari), nurse sharks (Ginglymostoma cirratum), and occasionally Caribbean reef sharks (Carcharhinus perezi).