Upachaya Dive Center

Upachaya is situated in the lush jungle of Roatán's north side, positioned directly on the shores of Man O’ War Harbor. This location offers a unique perspective on the island, providing immediate access to the waterfront for divers and water sports enthusiasts alike.

The property has undergone significant modernisation following its acquisition by the G. Harbaugh Foundation. It has evolved from an eco-lodge into a refined destination that maintains its natural surroundings while providing high-quality amenities for families and diving groups.

The centre operates with a valet diving service, designed to streamline your experience from the moment you arrive at the boutique. This approach allows you to focus on the water while the logistics of your kit and cylinders are handled for you.

The facility has a close relationship with the War Fighters Scuba group, supported by the foundation, which underscores the professional and community-focused nature of the operations here.

The centre provides a range of diving services, including guided explorations for those looking to experience the local reefs. Whether you are looking for a single dive or a multi-day programme, the focus is on providing access to the diverse marine environments of the north coast.

Dives are conducted from a pontoon boat, providing a stable platform for accessing the reefs and surrounding waters of Man O’ War Harbor.

The dive boutique provides valet services to assist with your equipment and logistics. On-site accommodation includes spacious, air-conditioned suites equipped with fans, hot water showers, and filtered water to ensure you are well-rested between dives.

For those choosing to stay on-site, the resort provides easy access to the water for snorkeling and kayaking, making it easy to move between the shore and the reef.

The reefs around Man O’ War Harbor are characterised by a rich variety of hard and soft corals. You will find impressive structures including pillar coral, brain coral, sea whip, and various sea sponges, alongside delicate sea fans (Gorgoniidae) and fire coral that provide a complex habitat for reef life.

Large pelagics and common reef residents are frequently encountered. Divers can observe Caribbean reef sharks, nurse sharks (Ginglymostoma cirratum), and various species of rays, including the Southern stingray (Hypanus americanus) and spotted eagle rays. Schools of fish such as jacks (Carangidae), snappers (Lutjanus), and blue chromis are common sights against the backdrop of the reef.

For those interested in macro life, the area offers plenty to explore. Look for nudibranchs (Chromodoris willani), seahorses (Hippocampus kuda), and various crustaceans such as mantis shrimp, scaly-tailed mantis shrimps, and spiny lobster (Palinuridae). You may also spot octopus (Octopus vulgaris), scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae), and garden eels (Gorgasia) tucked into the sandy patches and coral crevices.

In the shallower areas and flats, the fauna shifts towards species like permit, large tarpons, and various small flatfishes. Turtles, including the Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) and Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), are also part of the local ecosystem.