Our 20th Anniversary as a Female-Owned PADI Dive Shop in Roatan
This month marks a milestone worth celebrating: Octopus Dive School has officially been sharing the magic of diving in Roatan for 20 years. Founded in 2005 by longtime Roatan resident and dive professional Nuria Corraliza, Octopus has grown into one of the island’s most beloved boutique PADI dive shops — known for its personal touch, community spirit, and passion for the sea.
Twenty years later, Octopus is still proudly independent, still female-owned, and still delivering unforgettable experiences beneath the surface.
From Rocky Beginnings to a Resilient Dive Community
Like many great stories, this one didn’t start easy. Nuria opened the original Octopus Dive School in West Bay in 2005, only to have the dive boat stolen before the shop even officially opened. One month later, a fire destroyed the entire operation.
But the Roatan community showed up with support, donations, and encouragement — and Nuria, with her characteristic strength and optimism, rebuilt. What began as a setback became the foundation for something deeper: a dive shop rooted in purpose and supported by people who believed in her vision.
A Special Celebration Filled with Community
On May 13, 2025, Octopus Dive School turned 20, and the celebration reflected everything the dive shop is about — friends, laughter, food, stories, and shared memories under the stars in Gibson Bight.
Instructors past and present, returning divers, and neighbors joined Nuria to celebrate this milestone — not with formality, but with joy. It was the kind of evening that felt like a reunion and a family dinner rolled into one.
It wasn’t about promotion or flash — it was about the people who’ve been part of the journey, and the energy that has kept Octopus thriving all these years.
A Leading Female-Owned Dive Shop in Roatan
As one of the longest-running female-owned PADI dive shops in Roatan, Octopus holds a unique place on the island. Nuria has spent two decades building something that reflects not just her love of diving, but her belief in inclusion, trust, and connection.
From students learning to dive for the first time to advanced divers coming back year after year, what keeps people returning to Octopus is more than location — it’s the feeling. Nuria’s leadership shows in every detail: the way new divers are welcomed, the patience of the instruction, and the laid-back energy that makes everyone feel at home.
Why Divers Keep Coming Back
Ask anyone who’s dived with Octopus and you’ll hear similar themes: real people, great vibes, and a deep respect for the ocean. Under Nuria’s guidance, the shop has stayed true to its roots — offering honest, safe, small-group diving without the pressure or polish of larger operations.
Octopus Dive School isn’t just a place to get certified or dive — it’s a place to belong.
Looking Ahead — Still Small, Still Strong
Even after 20 years, Octopus hasn’t lost its original spirit. With Nuria still at the helm, the dive shop continues to evolve, grow, and welcome new faces from around the world — whether they’re diving for the first time or coming back for their tenth visit.
From the early days in West Bay to today’s home in Gibson Bight, Octopus remains a woman-led success story, proving that passion, perseverance, and a strong community can go a long way — even on an island in the Caribbean.
Thank You from Nuria & the Octopus Dive School Family
To every diver, friend, instructor, and supporter who has walked through our doors over the past two decades: thank you for blowing bubbles with us.
This dream started with one woman, one vision, and one very stubborn commitment to keep going. Today, it continues because of all of you.
Here’s to the next dive, the next student, the next sunset, and the next 20 years! Besos!
📍 Visit us in Gibson Bight, West End, Roatan
💙 Female-owned. PADI certified. People-centered. Always welcoming.
📩 [email protected]
