Warfighter Scuba

Warfighter Scuba is a non-profit organisation founded in 2017 by Marine Corps veteran Nick Powers. It was established to provide diving as a form of therapy for veterans dealing with PTSD, amputations, or paralysis. The organisation focuses on helping veterans find peace and a sense of adventure beneath the surface.

While the organisation has a strong presence in Central and Southeastern Florida, including the Florida Keys, it also facilitates diving programmes in Roatan, Honduras. These Caribbean dives offer some of the best conditions in the region for both training and exploration.

The team consists of four instructors who operate as volunteers to support the organisation's mission. All training and diving activities are conducted with medical personnel present on-site to ensure a safe environment for all participants.

The centre is affiliated with Scuba Schools International (SSI) and provides a highly personalised approach to diving. This is particularly important for the veterans they serve, as training is tailored to individual needs and physical requirements.

Warfighter Scuba offers a range of SSI certifications, starting from the Open Water Diver course. They also provide training for more advanced paths, including Assistant Instructor and the Instructor Training Course (IDC).

The centre ensures safety is a priority by having oxygen security available on-site. For those participating in the Roatan programmes, accommodation is often arranged at Casa de los Mazos in West End.

The reefs are home to a diverse array of larger marine life, including Caribbean reef sharks, Nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum), and various species of Grouper (Epinephelus). You can often spot Eagle ray (Aetobatus), Southern stingray (Hypanus americanus), and spotted eagle rays cruising the water column, alongside large tarpons and Great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda).

In the reef structure, you will find a vibrant community of fish such as Parrotfish (Calotomus), Snapper (Lutjanus), and various species of Jack (Carangidae). Schools of blue chromis, creole wrasse, and silversides add constant movement to the seascape, while pufferfish (Arothron hispidus) and various species of drumfish inhabit the surrounding areas.

The hard and soft coral cover is extensive, featuring brain corals, pillar coral, sea fan (Gorgoniidae), and sea whip. You will also see various sponges (Porifera), including elephant ear sponge and barrel sponge, alongside black coral and soft coral (Alcyonacea) providing intricate habitats.

For those interested in macro life, the area offers plenty of interest with Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani), seahorses (Hippocampus kuda), and various species of shrimp, including cleaner shrimp (Lysmata) and striped coral shrimp. Look closely for octopus (Octopus vulgaris), scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae), garden eels (Gorgasia), and various species of crabs and lobsters (Homaridae).

In the Florida training areas, conditions are characterised by low currents and good visibility, making them ideal for foundational training. Roatan provides the classic Caribbean diving experience with reliable conditions for reef exploration.