Alton's Dive Center
Alton's Dive Center
5
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Full view
About
For over 25 years Alton's Dive Center has developed a reputation as the friendliest and most professional dive center on the island. As a five star PADI facility we are fully equipped to cater to all level of divers from beginners up to Master Scuba Divers. A family run operation, Alton's Dive Center is owned and operated by local couple Lisa & Alton. We are fully self-sufficient with convenient on-site ocean-front accommodation, from dorms with fans and shared bathrooms, up to private rooms with AC and private bathrooms! We have a large dock with hammocks, Tipsy Turtle eatery, a/c classrooms and great swimming areas all in one convenient location. Classes and dive guides are offered in a variety of languages, our goal to give you a safe personal experience while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and customer care. Group numbers are kept small ensuring maximum enjoyment and freedom helping to maintain a focus on reef conservation and environmental protection.
Utila, Honduras
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
436 reviews
Excellent
401
Very good
24
Average
5
Poor
4
Terrible
2
Craig J
Savage, MN7 contributions
Feb 2022
I have been diving with Alton's for eight years now and I will always dive with them when I am in Utila. All dive shops change over time: New Instructors come and go, equipment wears out and safety protocols change. Alton's has consistently been excellent in setting high standards for their staff, their equipment and their desire to satisfy the needs of their dive clients. Alton's compressor room is always well maintained. The diving equipment is excellent and the dive boats are reliable and clean. The boat captains are consistently the best I have ever encountered - Eric has the best eyes on the island and is 100% focused on safety on every trip. It only takes one injury to a finger or knee when entering or leaving the water to ruin a dive vacation . If Eric thinks the waves and wind are creating unsafe conditions, the boat won't go out. That rarely happens because Eric knows which part of the Island is sheltered from particular conditions. The reason that Alton's is at the top is because it is run by real professionals: Steve and Lisa care deeply about the staff and the divers and along with Alton, they insure the high standards that are the signature of this operation. On top of all of this is the fun factor: Laughter rings out everywhere; on every boat, on the dock and in the dining area. The warmth of the staff is infectious: We feel like family at Altons..
Written April 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Terry-2008
Iowa, USA31 contributions
Mar 2020
Another great dive vacation in Utila this year. Hoped to see whale sharks, but struck out. Not the shop's fault, but we did see 4 pilot whales! They were too fast to see when snorkleing, but we could see them from the boat.
Last year we went early January and had the boat with small groups the whole two weeks we were there. This time we waited until the end of Feburary/early March and I think everyone else decided that was the perfect time to go too.
Good visability and saw some new sea life we've never seen before.
Best thing about the dive shop is they take safety very serious!!! Everyone does a check out dive and you will do the required safety required training. Every time you leave the boat, there is a roll call when you get back on the boat, even when snorkeling.
Speaking of snorkeling, we were able to swim with a pod of about 100 wild dolphins again this year!!!
Last year we went early January and had the boat with small groups the whole two weeks we were there. This time we waited until the end of Feburary/early March and I think everyone else decided that was the perfect time to go too.
Good visability and saw some new sea life we've never seen before.
Best thing about the dive shop is they take safety very serious!!! Everyone does a check out dive and you will do the required safety required training. Every time you leave the boat, there is a roll call when you get back on the boat, even when snorkeling.
Speaking of snorkeling, we were able to swim with a pod of about 100 wild dolphins again this year!!!
Written April 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nick
Bonney Lake, WA39 contributions
Sep 2022 • Solo
Great place, great employees dive masters and crew! I took my advanced, Nitrox, and wreck diver certs. Great courses and dive instructors. Good food everyday at the restaurant/bar. No dinner but RJs across the street is great. I also rented a scooter from Alton’s and buzzed around the island. No safe lock boxes in dorm rooms. Also they keep your passport in a safe when you arrive and you get it back when you pay at the end. Plenty of hammocks to chill in. Before coming to Utilla get limps or get your US dollars new from the atm and put them in an envelope, don’t crease them or they will not be accepted. The one good atm on the island runs out of money often. So plan ahead with your cash. Cards not widely accepted on the island and have an extra charge.
Written September 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Semere M
Minneapolis, MN101 contributions
Apr 2022
I came to Utila in the hopes of having a whale shark sighting in April 2022, which unfortunately never materialized, so I was doing 4 dives a day with Alton’s for a total of 26 dives over the course of several days. There’s a monetary incentive to the Captain for finding whale sharks or dolphins, so they really keep an eye out for it which is cool. Obviously you don’t have to partake and pay a little extra if you don’t want to, but it’s nice to have the option. Communication pre-arrival was very good, even though there was some confusion on my first day of the dive b/c Steve who I corresponded with was not there the day I arrived, I didn’t think it was a big enough deal having missed a morning dive as a result.
Overall Alton’s is probably a good dive shop for newly certified folks, but if you have quite a few dives under your belt and have experienced different dive shops in different parts of the world, I probably wouldn’t recommend it. My biggest gripe was that we kept going to the same spot practically every single afternoon dive (Black Coral Wall & Moon Wall). The captain picks the site with no input from guides or repeat divers (barring weather conditions of course), so I read the incentive as him picking the closest spot to the shop. I pointed out that we went out to the same site after the 4th time, but got only shrugs. Anyway, if you’re here for a day or two, or only doing a few dives, go for it, but if you’re planning to use this as your base for several dives I would look elsewhere. Although in all honestly, the two bigger operations that cater to much bigger crowds are more than likely no better, and smaller operators are far and few in between in Utila.
If you check out Alton’s and are an experienced diver, go with Betto! That guy’s infectious positive personality and laughter is one of those unforgettable human connections you can make in your travels. Thank you Betto!
Overall Alton’s is probably a good dive shop for newly certified folks, but if you have quite a few dives under your belt and have experienced different dive shops in different parts of the world, I probably wouldn’t recommend it. My biggest gripe was that we kept going to the same spot practically every single afternoon dive (Black Coral Wall & Moon Wall). The captain picks the site with no input from guides or repeat divers (barring weather conditions of course), so I read the incentive as him picking the closest spot to the shop. I pointed out that we went out to the same site after the 4th time, but got only shrugs. Anyway, if you’re here for a day or two, or only doing a few dives, go for it, but if you’re planning to use this as your base for several dives I would look elsewhere. Although in all honestly, the two bigger operations that cater to much bigger crowds are more than likely no better, and smaller operators are far and few in between in Utila.
If you check out Alton’s and are an experienced diver, go with Betto! That guy’s infectious positive personality and laughter is one of those unforgettable human connections you can make in your travels. Thank you Betto!
Written August 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andreas
Spokane, WA1 contribution
Jan 2022 • Friends
I had the airlines cancel a scheduled flight. As a result I would have had to spend 60 hours traveling to Utila. After I explained this to the dive shop, I received a response quoting their policy that deposits are 100% non-refundable. But I can use the deposit towards a dive vacation in the next 2 years. They had my reservation all of 3 week. If I make it to Utila in the future, Alton’s will be the last dive shop I use. I hope they enjoy the $100 as much as I’ve enjoyed sharing my story.
Written January 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Andreas,
Our refund policy is stated very clearly on the email we send to collect reservation deposits. You even acknowledged that you knew the deposit was completely non-refundable, but then asked if we could refund it anyway.
I'm sorry to hear when you eventually get here we'll be the last shop you use. As our reviews show, you'll be missing out on an amazing experience!
That said, if you do change your mind, your deposit will be here waiting for you to use it.
Kind regards
Steve
Written January 9, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Cathal
2 contributions
Aug 2022 • Solo
I completed my PADI open water certification here at the beginning of August. I chose Alton's over the plethora of other dive shops on the island for their glittering reviews, and I wasn't disappointed.
I was very impressed with the professionalism, attitude and passion of the whole staff team, in particular their love and respect for the reef and the life it contains. The open water course I was on comprised just 2 students (not sure whether this is a factor of my coming in the less-busy season or just natural variation) but in any case the small class size was only beneficial.
Our instructor, KJ, was fantastic. She was always warm and engaging, very patient and excellent at explaining the course material and what needed to be done during our training dives. For something as daunting to the uninitiated as diving, having such high quality instruction made the world of difference to the learning experience and to how enjoyable the whole experience was overall.
The only negatives I could think to mention about Alton's were minor- the free accomodation in the smaller of the two blocks was pretty loud at night, with unfitting window screens that I was worried might let mozzies through. Additionally a point for potential customers to be aware of, I was somehow unaware of the 8% fee for using card, which for a PADI course will of course be not-inconsequential, so I'd advise anyone considering courses here to ensure you've enough cash taken out to cover the bill in advance of checking out.
Overall I had a fantastic experience and would definitely be coming back for my advanced open water certificate if I was in the region!
I was very impressed with the professionalism, attitude and passion of the whole staff team, in particular their love and respect for the reef and the life it contains. The open water course I was on comprised just 2 students (not sure whether this is a factor of my coming in the less-busy season or just natural variation) but in any case the small class size was only beneficial.
Our instructor, KJ, was fantastic. She was always warm and engaging, very patient and excellent at explaining the course material and what needed to be done during our training dives. For something as daunting to the uninitiated as diving, having such high quality instruction made the world of difference to the learning experience and to how enjoyable the whole experience was overall.
The only negatives I could think to mention about Alton's were minor- the free accomodation in the smaller of the two blocks was pretty loud at night, with unfitting window screens that I was worried might let mozzies through. Additionally a point for potential customers to be aware of, I was somehow unaware of the 8% fee for using card, which for a PADI course will of course be not-inconsequential, so I'd advise anyone considering courses here to ensure you've enough cash taken out to cover the bill in advance of checking out.
Overall I had a fantastic experience and would definitely be coming back for my advanced open water certificate if I was in the region!
Written August 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anne R
Appleton, WI52 contributions
Mar 2022
Alton's Dive Shop & Staff are welcoming & friendly. Professional, helpful and knowledgeable. The Dive Masters are top notch, the boats are roomy while being steered by the best Captains in Utila. We are repeat customers to Alton's and wouldn't think of diving with any other shop!
Written December 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stuart_Away_Again
Cambridge, UK893 contributions
Apr 2023 • Friends
Dived for 4 days with Alton’s. The centre is an oasis of calm professionalism which exudes confidence. Small diver groups make the experience very personal with equipment provided - a real bonus for the travelling diver. On site bar and grill provides good quality food at very reasonable prices. A great experience all round - thank you.
Written April 17, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Danny C
1 contribution
May 2022
Alton's Dive Center was terrific. The dive masters Bedo, Jake, and well I can't remember her name because she didn't say much, were professional, safety oriented, and, best of all, wanted to show you the best dive of your time on Utila. My wife and I dove with Alton's 3 times (six dives total) and had a different dive master each time. No big deal though because these dive masters communicate!!! I'm fairly new to open water diving and so adjustments needed to be made. Each day the new guide had already spoke with the previous day's guide for insight into our unique abilities.
Will happily return to Utila and Alton's Dive Center. Ya'll rock.
Will happily return to Utila and Alton's Dive Center. Ya'll rock.
Written May 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bezoarthegreat
Auckland, New Zealand26 contributions
Feb 2024 • Family
Last year my son and I drove to Honduras to get him certified. We both dove 10+ dives and left thrilled with the island, the dive service and left eager to return. This week I went back to alton’s with my two brothers for a week of diving. It could not have gone better. They adjusted staffing and were able all three of us to an advanced open water level. Every aspect of Altons is great. Their housing is immaculate, air conditioned, and only s stone throw from the dock, on site meals are great, the equipment is very good. I won’t be bringing my own next trip. We dove surrounded by dive masters or masters in training that were at all times cheerful, safe conscious. and looking for ways to coach us into becoming better divers. The dock is a happy place. sometimes we returned between dives for a soda and have surface time. If I were advising a family that needs to certify 2 or 3 people, go to alton’s and have a great week together. Stay long enough to upgrade to advanced like my son did. There might be inherent turnover in staff, but the dive masters in training were fantastic and I hope to see them there next year. My overnight in Roatan was ‘so so«. There was non stop traffic and noice. To stay on an island with almost zero autos pretty much guarantees a relaxing time.
Written March 2, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, does the accommodation include a bath towel with your bed? I couldn’t find any details on what’s included in the accommodation. Thanks
Written May 16, 2023
Hi, what dates do your open water courses run from and do they run at all times during December? including 24-26 December and the holiday season? Thanks!
Written November 26, 2017
Hi, what dates do your open water courses run from and do they run at all times during December? including 24-26 December and the holiday season? Thanks!
Written November 26, 2017
Hi there.
Our Open Water courses run over 4.5 days, including the 2 free fun dives we give on certification. The only days over the holiday season we close are Christmas Day and New Years Day.
Written November 26, 2017
Buenas!!! Nosotros vamos a viajar en Marzo 2017 a Utila...queremos saber cuál es la mejor temporada para bucear con tiburones ballenas?
El servicio que ustedes ofrecen es de buceo, estadía y desayuno, o cuál es el servicio específicamente?
Cuál es el precio?
Muchas gracias!!!! Saludos!!!
Written January 8, 2017
Si nos puede mandar un correo a info @ diveinutila . com le podemos mandar todo la informacion que necesitas.
Written January 8, 2017
hi ill be staying at lazy daze the first week of February for about 10 days ,please tell me what i can expect to see diving at that time ? I'm an advanced diver ,,ill be bringing my own gear ,will i get a discount on my dives ? do you have nitrox ? I've herd good things about your operation and look forward to diving with you .
Written December 22, 2016
Hi Terry,
If you could send an email to us on info @ diveinutila . com we can send you all the information you need!
Kind regards
Steve Crowe
Dive Center Manager
Written December 23, 2016
Thx for the review, did you see any whale sharks? That is our current point of interest. Thx!
Written December 14, 2016
Hi Ruby,
We saw whale sharks yesterday, Sunday and Friday!
Kid regards
Steve
Dive Center Manager
Written December 15, 2016
Could you please give me more detail on the hostel? You review was great but we are two 57 year olds coming for the first time to Utila. We need air conditioning for certain, and although we don't need 5 star accomodations, we can afford a nicer place to stay other than a very rough hostel. Are there private, air conditioned rooms with bathrooms? Do you have suggestions for us?
Also, what do you recommend for getting to Utila travel-wise? There seems to be many options.
Thanks.
Leslie
Written November 27, 2016
Hi Leslie, in your case I would not recommend that you stay at the centre, the accommodation is extremely basic, definitely no AC in sight! There are privates but I think they shared the bathroom. However, there is a range of accommodation options in the island, though I can't comment on those - I can warn you though, that as electricity on the island can be a little patchy, you may lose your AC at times, no matter where you stay.
In terms of getting there, I took the ferry from La Ceiba, it's about $25 (I think) and takes about 45minutes or an hour.
There are flights too but as that was beyond my budget, I didn't look into it. The ferry was a smooth ride, it's a big, newish one in good condition.
My experience of Utila was that it is fairly basic in most respects (food, bars etc), if you want a more upscale experience, I think there are more mid to upper range budget options in the island of Roatan. However, my diving experience on Utila was unparalleled :)
Written December 2, 2016
We are a couple in our late 50's interested in coming to Utila in March. Alton's seems great. We may or may not take the 2nd level course...or just do dives. First question: where is a nice, decent place to stay? I have stayed in many hostels, but I am thinking we would prefer something nicer. Do we need a car? What dates in March 2017 would you recommend to see the Whale sharks...near the New Moon?
Thanks/
Leslie
Written November 24, 2016
Hi Leslie,
You would be more than welcome! Please send us an email to info @ divinutila . com and we'll give you all the information you need!
Kind regards
Steve Crowe
Dive Center Manager
Written November 24, 2016
Buenas!!! Nos vamos a viajar en 2017 a Utila...queremos saber cuál es la mejor temporada para bucear con tiburones ballenas?
El servicio que ustedes ofrecen es de buceo, estadía y desayuno, o cuál es el servicio específicamente?
Cuál es el precio?
Muchas gracias!!!! Saludos!!!
Written September 17, 2016
Hi - What is the policy regarding the length of time for dives? How long is the typical dive?
Written April 6, 2016
Hi there!
Our fun dives are one hour long - the longest on Utila!
Written April 13, 2016
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