Utila Citizen Science TripNovember 21, 2026 – November 28, 2026
Where Adventure Meets Conservation

$2,395per diver*

click 'Book Now' for availability

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Picture spending Thanksgiving week 2026 somewhere a little warmer — trading cold weather and holiday rush for turquoise water, vibrant reefs, and a relaxed island pace. From November 21–28, 2026, join ECD at Utila Lodge for an unforgettable Citizen Science adventure, where every dive becomes more than just an activity, but a chance to help protect fragile coral reefs and marine life. You’ll stay right on the water, enjoy fresh island meals, soak in Caribbean sunsets, and dive into meaningful projects like coral-health monitoring, fish identification, and reef clean-ups under the guidance of experienced marine biologists. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the underwater world, this trip offers a unique blend of exploration, learning, and environmental impact — all wrapped up in paradise. This trip includes workshops/lectures with marine scientists, 2 PADI specialty courses, and the chance to help clear the local reefs of invasive lionfish.

 

Utila is a small, welcoming island known for its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and incredible underwater world. Just a short boat ride from some of the healthiest reefs in the Caribbean, the island blends colorful Caribbean culture with a true diver-town feel — simple beach bars, great local food, and a pace that slows the moment you arrive. It’s famous for its easy access to vibrant coral reefs, abundant marine life, and the chance to spot larger pelagics in season. Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront, grabbing a baleada from a street stand, or watching the sky turn pink over the water, Utila offers an authentic, relaxed island experience that pairs perfectly with a week of diving

About the Diving

Diving in Utila is all about variety, color, and easy access to some of the healthiest reefs in the Caribbean. The island sits along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, offering dramatic walls, coral gardens, and vibrant marine life just minutes from shore. Divers can expect everything from schooling fish, turtles, and macro critters to the occasional pelagic cruising by in deeper water. Conditions are typically calm and warm, making it an ideal destination for both newer divers and seasoned explorers. With short boat rides, abundant sites, and stunning visibility, every dive in Utila feels effortless — and often unforgettable.

Here's How the Week Breaks Down (general plan, specific sessions/days subject to change) 

Saturday – Arrive and settle in
Sunday – Check-out dives in the morning, then Citizen Science orientation and Fish ID lecture
Monday – Fish ID dives in the morning, PADI Coral Watch specialty in the afternoon, plus a night dive
Tuesday – More Coral Watch specialty dives, then lionfish workshop in the afternoon
Wednesday – Lionfish hunt at the sea mounds, followed by a lionfish dissection lab and night dive
Thursday – Coral nursery dives in the morning, community outreach activity in the afternoon
Friday – Another lionfish hunt in the morning, then free time to explore the island
Saturday – Departure

Utila Lodge is a simple, comfortable retreat designed for people who want to spend their days on the water and their evenings unwinding by it.  It’s not a luxury resort — and that’s part of its charm. The focus is on comfort, warm hospitality, and unbeatable access to the water, creating the perfect home base for divers who want to soak up every moment of their time in paradise.

The rooms at Utila Lodge are clean, simple, and designed with divers in mind. Each one has a private porch overlooking the water, so you can step outside and take in the ocean breeze, watch the boats come in, or relax with a book as the sun sets. Inside, you’ll find comfortable beds, efficient air conditioning, and thoughtful touches that make it easy to settle in after a full day underwater. It’s a cozy, waterfront base that keeps you close to everything you came for.

Dining at the lodge is warm, home-style, and full of local flavor. Meals are prepared on site and served in an open, airy setting that looks out over the Caribbean, making even breakfast feel like part of the island experience. You can expect hearty food, fresh ingredients, and a relaxed atmosphere where everyone gathers to swap stories from the day’s dives.

What's Included

  • 7 nights of accommodation at Utila Lodge
  • 6 days of breakfast and lunch plus breakfast before departure (water, coffee, and tea included with meals)
  • 14 dives 
  • 2 PADI specialty certifications (Coral Watch & Fish ID)
  • Use of tanks and weights
  • Complimentary welcome cocktail and bottle of wine
  • Round-trip transfers between the airport or ferry dock and the lodge
  • All Honduran taxes included
  • ECD trip leaders to handle all the details!

    Not included:

    • Marine park lionfish hunting license: $10
    • Hawaiian spear rental (optional): $20
    • Hawaiian spear purchase (optional): $40
    • Transportaton to Utila (Fly to RTB (Roatan) and ferry or charter flight to Utila)
    • Meals not specified
    • Beverages not specified (alcohol, soda, coffee outside of meals)
    • Gratuities
    • Dive equipment
    • Trip and Dive Insurance

Double occupancy diver garden view room $2395
*due to the size of the resort, there is no single rooming option on this trip

$500 to reserve a spot
50% of trip cost due 180 days prior to the trip
Full balance due 90 days prior to the trip

Single travelers who sign up for double occupancy will be matched up with a roommate of the same gender.